Star Weekly - Wyndham - 2nd August 2023

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Laureate at the library

School libraries are crucial to childhood learning and literacy so who better to open a new one than the Australia’s Children’s Laureate?

That’s exactly what happened on Friday, July 28 when the current Laureate and acclaimed children’s author, Garbrielle Wang, opened the new library at Werribee’s Lollypop Creek Primary School.

Ms Wang’s presence at the opening was especially appropriate as the Laureate has contributed a lot more to the new library than just cutting the ribbon.

Thanks to a donation from the Australian Children’s Laurate Foundation and property developer Harpley Lendlease, Ms Wang provided funds to buy books that now fill the new library’s shelves.

Ms Wang was joined at the official opening by members of the Children’s Laureate Foundation, Harpley Lendlease staff, teachers, members of the school community and students.

Named after the nearby creek, Lollypop Creek is one of the newest schools in Wyndham, having only opened at the beginning of the year.

The new library joins a gymnasium, administration building, specialist learning centre and outdoor sports fields among its facilities.

Toilet ban gets the flush

By Cade Lucas

Wyndham council has conceded that a law banning non-binary people from using public toilets is not being enforced and will soon be replaced.

During questions with notice at a meeting of council on Tuesday, July 25 council chief executive Stephen Wall was asked if section 14.8 of the Community Amenity Local Law 2015 banning people from entering public

toilets reserved for the opposite sex, was still in use. Mr Wall said a review of local laws found section 14.8 was not gender inclusive and may restrict human rights.

However, until a new version of the law came into effect, Mr Wall said section 14.8 would remain on the books.

“While the current local law is still in use, until the adoption of the new law, this clause has not been and will not be enforced.”

Mr Wall said the new draft local law did not

contain any clauses mandating the gendered use of public toilets, but didn’t say when it wouldcomeintoeffect.TheDraftCommunity Amenity Local Law was presented to council in April.

Wyndham is one of a number of Victorian councilsremovinglawswhichbannon-binary and transgender people from public toilets.

Last month, Surf Coast Shire Council adopted changes to its amenity laws allowing peopletoenterpublictoiletsandothercouncil

facilities regardless of their gender.

In response to a follow-up question, Mr Wall said Wyndham had no plans to establish an LGBTQI+ advisory committee to advise council on these matters. He said the Wyndham people’s advisory panel already had the capacity to perform this role.

“Panel members are reflective of the diversity of the community. The LGBTQI+ community is represented on this panel,” Mr Wall said.

Lollypop Creek Primary School librarian Laurie Worsley, school captains Alexis and Lily, and Australian Children’s Laureate Gabrielle Wang at the opening of the new library. (Damjan Janevski). 346905_01

Gates open 10am | Kids Under 16 get in free

Consultant hire a ‘prudent step’

By Cade Lucas

Wyndham council will employ a consultant to assess community submissions to its draft Wyndham plan, after an amendment to block the move was narrowly defeated at a meeting of council on Tuesday, July 25.

Wyndham mayor Susan McIntyre was forced to use her casting vote to defeat the amendment brought by councillor Josh Gilligan, who argued employing a consultant to assess community feedback would be a waste of money.

“I don’t believe that we need to get someone else from outside the organisation to tell us what I can read for myself, ” said Cr Gilligan who claimed the consultant could cost up to $20,000 and set a precedent.

The amendment was seconded by Cr Robert Szatkowski who said it was an example of the ‘scourge of consultancy’ where consultants are employed to do work that could be done by public servants.

He said in assessing the submissions, the consultant would simply provide another opinion.

“All you’re getting is a third opinion. Opinions on opinions on opinions.”

The draft plan sets out how the city depicted in the Wyndham 2040 Community Vision can be achieved and what that will involve.

Public consultation on the draft plan took place from November 2022 to March 2023, with more 700 written submissions being received and nearly 200 people attending a series of information sessions.

Speaking against the amendment, Cr Marcel Mahfoud said the scope of the draft Wyndham plan meant it required a third

Raising funds for lifelong support

A group of Point Cook residents has teamed upwithAltonaRSLtoraisemoneyforsupport dogs for veterans.

Avington Lifestyle Village residents Phil and Patti Yarwood, Hank and Elaine Eykman and Kerri Ridgway are raising money for the Defence Community Dogs Program, which provides highly trained Assistance Dogs to serving and ex-serving Australian Defence Force (ADF) members, who need physical and emotional support for mood, depressive and anxiety disorders, including Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

Mr Yarwood said the team decided to support the charity given the large number

of veterans that reside at the village in Point Cook.

“The program trains dogs to become a carer andmateforveteranswhosufferfromongoing health issues such as loneliness, nervousness, depressionandmoreseriouslyPTSD,”hesaid.

“With the support of the Altona RSL, we have been holding sausage sizzles at Altona and other locations in the west to accumulate funds.”

Mr Eykman teaches veterans art therapy at Altona RSL.

“Myartclasseshelpthosewhoarestruggling with PTSD, we see so many veterans who are struggling everyday,” he said.

The group has been running sausage sizzles and is also planning a gala ball at the village on Saturday, September 23.

The team is hoping to raise $30,000, which Mr Yarwood said will be a tremendous help to one veteran.

“The cost of each dog is $30,000, which begins from puppy training through to continued support,” he said.

“Our hope is to raise as much as possible for one of these incredible dogs and what their difference makes to a veteran’s life.”

Jennifer Pittorino

West Gate Freeway overnight closures in August

party view, while Cr Peter Maynard called it a ‘prudent step’ that was no different to council requesting a panel report.

While the amendment failed, a subsequent amendment by Cr Szatkowski that the words ‘published in full’ be added to ensure the consultant’s report be made public, was supported.

The draft Wyndham plan community engagement report itself was then passed, with only Cr Gilligan and Cr Adele Hegedich voting against.

Deterrents for trucks, hoons

Trucks will be banned from using Thames Boulevard and speed humps added to deter hoons in Tarneit following motions passed by Wyndham council. The measures received unanimous support at the meeting on July25,afterbothoriginatedaspetitions from concerned local residents.

The petition to ban trucks on Thames Boulevard was delivered on June 6, though council had already made a submission to the Department of Transport and Planning to ban heavy vehicles from the road after a formal assessment indicated it was being used as an alternative to existing roads.

In introducing the motion, councillor Josh Gilligan said trucks were using Thames Boulevard as a ‘rat run through suburban streets’, while speaking in support, Cr Peter Maynard accused truck drivers of treating it ‘like a racetrack’.

Cr Maynard also criticised Vic Roads for not policing truck use on suburban streets and said it shouldn’t be up to council to address the issue.

The department has already given approvedthebanandnowwithcouncil’s support, it is set to be introduced early next month.

The proposal to introduce speed humps along Thomas Carr Drive in Tarneit came after residents complained of increased hoon activity in the area. Surveys conducted along Thomas Carr Drive found a high proportion of vehicles travelling above the speed limit and recommended traffic calming measures such as speed cushions and humps. Speed cushions were added in March, but despite receiving council approval, no date has been set for the addition of speed humps.

Phil and Patti Yarwood, Kerri Ridgway, and Elaine and Henk Eykman. (Damjan Janevski) 350220_01

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Horses bob for treats

Horses drinking from a water trough is a common sight at farms and stables the world over, but for staff at Werribee zoo, it’s a source of excitement.

The zoo’s herd of Asian wild horses has recently been diving headfirst into troughs to claim apples and carrots bobbing just below the surface, in what’s viewed as a positive sign for the endangered animals.

“As social animals that graze, rest and play together, apple and carrot bobbing is very engaging for the herd and adds complexity to their environment,” said Werribee Open Range Zoo keeper Laura Harbridge.

While most of the herd have been fishing for apples and carrots, others have been content to lick a nutrient-dense molasses mix within easier reach.

Ms Harbidge said sweet treats, such as fruit and molasses, are used to introduce new

flavours to the horses and stimulate them mentally and physically.

“It’s important to give them lots of choice in their daily lives and the horses absolutely love splashing in the water to find the treats,” she said.

Asian wild horses once roamed across Europe and Central Asia, but by the 1960’s they were officially declared extinct.

Aninternationalbreedingprogramrevived the species, but today they are still listed as endangered with only 1,200 estimated to exist in the wild across Mongolia, China and Russia. The horses can be seen in action on the Werribee Zoo’s free Safari Bus experience, which operates daily.

“Visitors can also look forward to seeing the herd socialise, wallow in the mud and graze together,” Ms Harbidge said.

Briefs

Armed robbery charges

Police have charged three men over an alleged armed robbery in Werribee last week. Two men from Werribee and one from Newtown, all aged 18, were arrested and charged with armed robbery over the incident which on Tuesday, July 25. It’s alleged a 25-year-old man was walking along Tower Road in Werribee about 10 pm when he was approached by two males who produced knives and demanded his phone and wallet which he then handed over. The two alleged offenders then fled the scene while the victim contacted police. A subsequent ground and air search failed to locate the offenders, who were eventually apprehended during search warrants conducted on Friday July 28. The three men were all remanded to appear at the Melbourne Magistrates Court.

Home fire plans

Victoria’s fire services are calling on households to develop or review their Home Fire Escape Plans. Fire Rescue Victoria and CFA respond to more than 3,000 residential fire incidents across the state each year, many of which are preventable. For more information on how to make a Home Fire Escape Plan, visit frv.vic.gov.au or cfa.vic.gov. au.

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Asian wild horses diving for carrots and apples at Werribee Zoo. (Supplied)

Refugee issues in focus

By Cade Lucas

Language and digital barriers are preventing refugees and migrants in Melbourne’s west from accessing essential services.

That’s one of the key findings in the ‘Don’t Settle for Less’ report from community legal service West Justice and launched by federal Attorney General Mark Dreyfus on Friday, July 28.

The report, co-authored by West Justice program manager Tess Matthews and legal director Joseph Nunweek, is based on the pilot phase of its Settlement Justice Partnership (SJP) initiative, where lawyers were placed in settlement support agencies in Melbourne’s west and helped clients alongside community and settlement workers.

“We wanted to address these barriers by providing services at places where new migrants were already going for their settlement support, Ms Matthews said of the motivation behind the pilot.

Along with showcasing the pilot program, ‘Don’t Settle For Less’ also highlights the issues newly arrived refugees regularly encountered.

Ms Matthews said difficulty accessing legal and financial help were chief among them.

“People who had a problem with an insurer who didn’t provide an interpreter over the phone or people who’d been scammed trying to urgently report their loss and stop further losses from occurring, but who the bank didn’t provideaninterpreterforandinsteadsaidthey would need to go to a physical branch during the middle of lockdown.”

Based at MiCare and the Wyndham Community and Education Centre in Werribee, most clients were from Myanmar or parts of Africa such as Sudan, South Sudan, Ethiopia and Eritrea, reflecting the refugee

population of the area.

Ms Matthews said some were more likely to have trouble accessing help than others.

“Anybody who’s come to Australia and spent a significant period time in a refugee camp is likely to have had little opportunity to learnEnglishoraccessthingslikesmartphones and computers and be able to confidently use digital systems.”

The report found that providing wrap-around refugee support services was

Highlighting homelessness

A donation drive, documentary screening, morning tea and community dinnerareamongtheeventsorganisedto mark Homelessness Week in Wyndham from August 7 to 13.

An annual event aimed at raising awareness of the issue, this year’s Homelessness Week is especially poignant given the amount of people driven into poverty by the cost of living crisis, housing shortage and repeated interest rate rises.

It’s estimated that more 30,000 Victorians are currently homeless, including a growing number of women over 50. It’s this cohort which is the subject of the documentary ‘Under Cover’ which will be screened at the Point Cook Community Learning Centre on Tuesday, August 8.

A morning tea will be held at Manor Lakes Community Learning Centre on August 9, while Dianella Community Centre in Tarneit West will host a Community Dinner on August 10.

A donation drive accepting long life food, blankets, clothing and personal care items is underway, with community centres across Wyndham taking items.

effective in overcoming these barriers and recommended it be expanded further.

In the last state budget, the SJP initiative was funded for the next two years.

Ms Matthews said while this was welcome, more fundamental change was required.

“We need to think differently about how we provide access to essential services and the way in which legal administrative and economic systems create barriers to social and economic inclusion for newly arrived migrants.”

Wyndham mayor Susan McIntyre said every contribution, no matter how small, will make a difference.

“Everyone benefits when we support our most vulnerable community members,” Cr McIntyre said.

“If you can, please donate an item, your time, or if you just want to learn more about the issues, please join in the activities this week.”

Rising Wyndham artists

Some Wyndham community centres are currently looking more colourful and creative than usual thanks to being converted in temporarygalleriesfortheLevelUpexhibitions.

Showcasing local Wyndham artists, the free exhibitions are under way at three community centres in Tarneit, Tarneit West and Point Cook until September.

Ana Hanson’s exhibition, ‘Unbound Terrain,’ is at Dianella Community Centre in Tarneit West until September 13, Jonabelle Cogan’s ’Joiners’ is at the Tarneit Community Learning Centre until September 11, while Yu Fanghong’s ’Blooming Red of Fabric Artistry’ closes at the Saltwater Community Centre in

Point Cook on the same date.

Some artists are displaying their work for the first time and Wyndham councillor Marcel Mahfoud said the Level Up exhibitions not only benefit them, but the local communities that are hosting them.

“Each exhibition includes a local launch and opening night that encourages the community to learn and understand the creative process, interact with the artists, and gain insight into the inspiration behind the artworks.”

The Level Up exhibitions are free and are open daily from 9am to 5pm.

Details: https://shorturl.at/jsAZ3.

A piece from Jonabelle Cogan’s exhibition, ‘Joiners’, part of the Level Up series. (supplied).

West Justice chief executive Melissa Hardham, legal director Joseph Nunweek and program manager Tess Matthews at the launch of ‘Don’t Settle for Less’. (Damjan Janevski). 350212_01

Chris Caldow is the new MacKillop College principal

After more than 25 years, MacKillop College is proud to introduce its new principal to the community.

Mr Chris Caldow, former principal of Penola Catholic College in Glenroy and Broadmeadows, officially joined the MacKillop College community on Monday, July 10, at the beginning of term three 2023.

PriortohisworkatPenolaCatholicCollege, he worked as a deputy principal at St Patrick’s College in Ballarat.

Having worked in leadership within the Catholic education system for more than 20 years, being principal at an Association of Josephite Affiliated Secondary Schools (AJASS) school continues to hold real appeal for Mr Caldow – first with Penola Catholic College and now with MacKillop College.

The relationships and intrinsic values inherent to the Josephite system align well with the personal and professional ideals he holds.

His journey seems a conventional one of hard work and personal objectives leading the way. Additional study, a master’s degree as well as a graduate certificate in religious education, served to lend structure to his curated career path.

Coupled with a driving need to do the most amount of good for the most amount of people, it has served to push Mr Caldow from year level coordinator roles to deputy principal to, now, principal of a school of over 1700 students.

With the legacy left by our namesake St Mary of the Cross MacKillop guiding Mr Caldow in his own ideals and objectives, he is himselfdedicatedtoleavingthecollegeandits students a legacy whereby they are in a better place to where they were when he joined the community.

Hebringswithhimasteadfastcommitment

to growth and evolution, and hopes to see students and staff thrive.

Similarly, standing within the Josephite tradition, Mr Caldow places no small amount of emphasis on the faith and education of our students, intent on building on the foundations already in place.

Appreciative of the welcome he’s already received, and keen to build and forge closer relationships, Mr Caldow looks forward to more local outreach, hoping to partner with a wider range of community organisations, thereby benefitting students and the college community.

For those new to the community, or considering a place at MacKillop College, please do not hesitate to get in touch to organise a meeting or tour with the registrar. www.mackillop.vic.edu.au enquiries@ mackillop.vic.edu.au 03 9734 5200 1-29 Russell St, Werribee

New principal Chris Caldow.

Reconciliation plan is approved

Wyndham council formally adopted it’s Reconciliation Action Plan 2023-2025 on Tuesday, July 25, with the motion receiving unanimous support.

To mark the occasion, a smoking ceremony was held and members of the Wyndham Reconciliation Action Committee, Aunty Judy Dalton-Walsh and Kelly Lehman, addressed councillors prior to the vote.

The WRAC helped develop the RAP alongside the Bunurong and Wadawurrung Aboriginal Corporations and members of the border community.

It’s Wyndham council’s second RAP, which

is a business plan outlining the specific actions it will take to build relationships, respect and opportunities with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

In moving the motion of support, deputy mayor and co-chair of the WRAC, Jennie Barrera, expressed pride in the plan.

“ThecityofWyndhamhasarichandvibrant Aboriginal history and this RAP will help build a shared vision to guide reconciliation in Wyndham.”

Cr Barrera said the second RAP had been developed through an ‘incredibly thorough process’ and that community feedback during

six weeks of public consultation had been overwhelmingly supportive.

“Only a minority opposed and said reconciliation wasn’t in council’s remit,” Cr Barrera said.

‘All local council’s have a responsibility for reconciliation and community feedback supports this.”

According to a report to council, 0.9 per cent of Wyndham’s population identifies as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, the highest proportion of any council area in metropolitan Melbourne.

In a departure from the previous RAP of

Khan caught in construction crisis

The crisis in the construction industry hasn’t just affected those looking to build their first home or apartment. Even those building mansions the size of aircraft hangers have been caught up in the turmoil.

“It was like the earth moved under my feet,” said property developer and former Wyndham councillor Intaj Khan of how he felt on June 18, when the builder of his $10 million mansion in Tarneit , Kleev Homes, told him they were entering administration.

“I was like ‘how can you do that, what am I gonna do?”

Given the scale of what Kleev Homes were leaving half finished, these weren’t

unreasonable inquiries. The 311 square, 15-room (down from 16) mansion with its own helipad, salon and lift, began construction in May 2022 and was expected to take two years to finish.

It was projected to be the largest mansion in Victoria once complete and despite the recent setback, Mr Khan insists it still will be.

“It’ll resume within two weeks,” he said addingthattheprocessoffindinganewbuilder had been “a nightmare“.

Whether the new builder will employ the same amount of tradies is unclear, as the delay has forced Mr Khan to (again) alter his plans.

“We had an architect from the US design an

outdoor resort style infinity swimming pool and we’ve had to put that on hold.

I hope that everyone will return but we will see how we go.”

Despite the upheaval he bares no ill-will to Kleev Homes whose plight he said was due to inflation and material costs from other projects, not his own.

“The previous builder did a great job and I was satisfied with his work but disappointed with the decision.”

Barring any further interruptions, Mr Khan said his mansion will (finally) be finished late next year.

Cade Lucas

2017-2019, the new version includes a truth telling pillar, marking the first time Wyndham councilwillbepartakeintheprocessinvolving the acknowledgement and liberation from past and ongoing oppression.

In addressing council, WRAC member Kelly Lehman said the addition demonstrated Wyndham’s commitment to reconciliation.

“We are proud to share that the 2023-2025 RAP is one of the very few in Victoria that has the truth telling pillar.” Under the plan, development of a safe and respectful truth telling process is due to be underway by June next year.

Attacker hunt

Police investigating a sexual assault in Point Cook last year have released CCTVfootageandimagesofamanthey believe responsible.

The man of Indian or sub-continental appearance and believed to be 25 years old, is suspected of sexually assaulting a 16-year-old girl in Point Cook on the afternoon of Friday, December 9 last year. Investigators have been told the manapproachedthevictimandgrabbed her by the arm in the vicinity of Palmers and Dunnings roads about 3pm . He then walked with the victim for 10 minutes during which the sexual assault occurred. A still image, computer generated image and CCTV footage of the man has been released in the hope people with information on the incident will come forward. The man is of slim build with black hair, a black beard and brown eyes, with the whites of his eyes having a yellow tinge.

He was wearing a black jacket and pants at the time of the incident and reportedly told the victim his name was Sam. Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.

A computer generated image of a man suspected of sexually assaulting a teenage girl in Point Cook last year. (supplied).

Trains tested for the first time in the new Metro Tunnel

The first test trains have entered the Metro Tunnel,oneineachofthetwinnine-kilometre tunnels were driven through the eastern entrance of the Metro Tunnel at South Yarra, stopping at Anzac Station.

The project will connect the Sunbury and Cranbourne/Pakenham lines via a new tunnel under the city, creating an end-to-end rail line from the north-west to the south-east.

DesignedtofreeupspaceintheCityLoopto runmoretrainsmoreoftentogrowingsuburbs like Werribee, Sunbury and Frankston.

This marks the start of the Metro Tunnel’s next major testing phase inside the new tunnels and stations, which will stretch well into 2024.

Premier Daniel Andrews said this the biggest milestone to date.

“Our Metro Tunnel will change the way Victorians travel across our city, our suburbs andourstate,slashingtraveltimesandcreating a turn-up-and-go network for Melbourne,” he said.

Overthecomingmonths,theseven-carriage trains will run back-and-forth deep under the CBD and Yarra River, testing complex equipment and systems to ensure they are working seamlessly and safely.

Fundamentals – such as lining the trains up with the platforms – will be tested first, before the team gradually increases the complexity, from one train at low speed using minimal

power through to multiple trains at greater speeds.

Everything from lifts, escalators, security systems,communications,lighting,plumbing, power and the Victorian-first platform screen doors will all be rigorously tested to ensure all systems are working together with Melbourne’s new fleet of bigger, better High Capacity Metro Trains.

Transport and Infrastructure Minister Jacinta Allan said, “We thank the thousands of Victorians who built the tunnels, laid the track and made it possible for us to get on with the critical testing phase so we can open a year ahead of schedule – delivering more trains more often for Melbourne’s growing suburbs.”

Intaj Khan pictured outside his Tarneit mansion during construction works earlier this year. (Damjan Janevski). 330591_05

The first test trains have entered the Metro Tunnel.

Record demand for help

By Cade Lucas

A record number of woman sought sexual assault counselling in Melbourne’s western suburbs during the last financial year.

According to the Western Region Centre Against Sexual Assault (WestCASA), 1200 new clients sought sexual assault counselling from the service in the year to July 2023.

WestCASA chief executive Elisa Buggy said the number was far greater than what they were capable of responding to.

“This year, WestCASA supported 360 new clients access to specialised sexual assault counselling, with hundreds more across our catchment area set to start in the future,” she said.

While that leaves more than 800 women unable to access counselling, Ms Buggy said WestCASA offered a range of other support services to those they couldn’t fit in.

“Survivors of recent sexual assault have also been supported through in person advocacy and counselling during the reporting process and forensic examination, to ensure they are informed of their rights and options after the event,” she said.

On top of demand from the broader community, being the main sexual assault counselling service in the western suburbs means WestCASA looks after prison inmates too.

“In addition, through WestCASA partnership with the Justice Department, 475 women and gender diverse people were referred to WestCASA for trauma informed therapy and advocacy at the Dame Phyllis Frost Centre, with 172 people undergoing counselling,” Ms Buggy said.

“WestCASA provides people who are incarcerated, the majority of whom are on remand, specialist counselling and advocacy

services including pre and post release support, group programs, staff training and a ‘wrap around’ support for each individual client.”

While the most recent crime figures showed aspikeinoffendinginWyndham,thenumber of sexual offences declined.

However, according to the Victorian Women’sHealthAtlas,ratesoffamilyviolence and intimate partner violence in Wyndham are still higher than the state’s average.

Grants for road safety

Doherty’s Creek College in Truganina is one of more than 90 Victorian schools, councilsandnot-for-profitorganisations to receive funding through the state government’s Community Road Safety Grants Program.

The $1.5 million program funds targeted education programs to tackle local road safety issues, reduce trauma and save lives.

Doherty’s Creek College is the only school across Melbourne’s north and west to share in $162,573 in funding allocated to 24 initiatives across the region.

Roads and Road Safety Minister Melissa Horne said the education programs were tailored for all road users, not just motorists.

“Everyonehasaroletoplayinkeeping our roads safe - whether you’re walking, riding or driving – we can all work together to stay safe on our roads,” Ms Horne said.

Ms Buggy said as a growing community, demand for their services in Wyndham and the western suburbs would likely remain high and that education was the key to bringing it down while still helping those in need.

“Prevention education has had profound success in reducing the stigma around this particularly complex trauma and empowering people in the community to support survivors in their recovery from sexual assault.”

“These important grants deliver life-saving messages right across our state, giving schools and groups the opportunity to work together at grass-roots level to improve road safety.”

Bike safety and skills workshops are among the education materials aimed at school students, while young drivers, newarrivalsandinvestinginroadsafety banners and signage are also a focus of the program.

Western Region Centre Against Sexual Assault (WestCASA ) chief executive Elisa Buggy. (Damjan Janevski). 350211_01

Truganina truck park on the way

By Cade Lucas

It’s hoped a new truck park built on council land in Truganina will ease the shortage of heavy vehicle parking spaces in the western suburbs.

Last week, Wyndham council approved a plantoturnavacantgreenfieldsiteinIntrepid Place, Truganina, into a truck and container park.

The new facility will be to be operated by Containerised Storage and Transport Solutions and owner, Gabor Stumpf, said it

will address a clear need.

“There is a severe lack of truck parking for smaller contractors in the entire western corner” said Mr Stumpf who was approached by council to run the facility.

He said the shortage was particularly acute in the Truganina area and affected smaller operators caught between property prices and council regulations.

“People call us up having been fined, desperately looking for parking.

“They can’t afford a yard of their own and usually park on the street until they get

hassled enough with fines whereby they look for a provider like us for discount parking options.

“We’re talking about smaller companies, three to four trucks who mostly sub-contract for larger companies.”

The plight of these companies was highlighted during council debate, with councillor Josh Gilligan arguing truck drivers needed solutions rather than fines.

“We cannot enforce a measure and give them no other option,” Cr Gilligan said.

In moving the motion, Cr Adele Hegedich

Reconciliation on the curriculum

Fostering unity between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and other AustraliansisonthecurriculumatWyndham

Central College, with the school adopting a Reconciliation Action Plan for the second straight year.

Based on the three pillars of Reconciliation, Respect and Opportunities, the college’s community engagement lead Kristy Gray said the RAP was crucial in bringing Indigenous and non-Indigenous members of the school community together.

“The document provides a road map for the school to engage with First Nation families respectfully, ensuring we support self-determination of young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island students,” Ms Gray said.

“It also provides staff an opportunity to engage with long term sustainable strategies to help students in the classroom”.

As part of the RAP, Wyndham Central’s Indigenous students will meet once a fortnight to learn more about their identity and culture, while learning opportunities for

non-Indigenous students also exist.

Wyndham Central College recently partneredwithWerribeeSecondaryCollegeto host the Department of Education Wyndham Network Yarning Circle, with more than 100 students participating at the school’s newly developed outdoor Gathering Circle.

College staff are currently implementing the RAP, with Indigenous perspectives to be added to the school curriculum throughout the year.

said the new facility would also remove trucks from the road.

The 7000 square site was purchased by council in 2018 to become an animal pound, but the project didn’t proceed.

Expected open by summer and operate 24-7, the park will fit 70 to 80 trucks and have space for container storage too.

Mr Stumpf said filling it shouldn’t be a problem.

“I don’t believe demand is gonna be an issue.”

Point Cook path upgrades now complete

Footpath and bike path upgrades in Point Cook are now complete.

The upgrades were a project of Wyndham council and involved connecting a series of shared foot and bike paths around Sanctuary Lakes and Saltwater Reserve in Point Cook.

Undertheprojectexistingpathsalong Saltwater Promenade, Haze Drive, Skyward Drive, Sanctuary Lakes South Boulevard, Point Cook Homestead Road, Spectacle Crescent and Silverbay Avenue were linked together.

WyndhamcouncillorAdeleHegedich said the upgrades will make the area much more accessible.

“By connecting these missing links, we’re creating a continuous shared path experience and allowing pedestrians and cyclists to easily explore Point Cook and access the Wyndham Bay Trail on foot or bike,” Cr Hegedich said.

Along with closing missing links, the upgrades also widened existing paths, concreted gravel sections and added new ones.

Cr Hegedich said locals now had no reason not to get out and about.

“This is a great opportunity to dust off your bike or put on your walking shoes and explore Point Cook and surrounds like never before.”

Blood donor search goes on to help save a mum’s life

Two units of blood are being flown from the United Kingdom for a mum urgently awaiting heart surgery, as the appeal for rare blood donors intensifies.

A fourth donor has been identified in Victoria by Australian Red Cross Lifeblood, but the search is far from over.

Lifeblood is opening appointments across the country and is asking anyone with O and A blood groups to come forward and donate in the hope of being a match for Amira Soliman, who has a very rare combination of blood types.

Director of Donor Relations Steven Eldridge said the response to the appeal so far had been incredible but compared the search for suitable donors to finding a needle in a haystack.

“Most people know about A and O blood groups, but within these main groups there arehundredsofvarietiesandAmirahasarare combination of them, with just one in 10,000 donations likely to be a match,” he said.

“Our teams are working around the clock to test donations and have so far identified four suitable donors. We’ve still got more than

halfway to go to ensuring there is enough blood for Amira’s surgery to proceed.

“We’re pleased to confirm that two bags of blood are currently en route to Australia from the United Kingdom, and we’re working with other blood services overseas to search for potential donors.”

The appeal for Amira had an instant impact across Australia, with people responding in their droves by booking donations and turning up at Lifeblood donor centres.

Between Thursday and Sunday appointments were up 14 per cent nationally and up 102 per

cent in Amira’s home state of South Australia. There was also an 80 per cent increase in people donating for the first time during that period.

Mr Eldridge said Lifeblood was incredibly grateful for the community’s response.

“We can’t thank the people who have donated enough and hope the goodwill continues as we search for more matches.

“All blood donations are appreciated because they go to patients in need. Lifeblood needs 33,000 donations each week to meet patient demand across Australia.”

Wyndham Central College Indigenous student Sophie Madden. (Chris Walter).

‘Forever homes’ needed for kids

Leading foster care agency OzChild is urging compassionate individuals and families in Melton and across the west to consider becoming foster carers.

According to OzChild, there are children as young as eight who are in desperate need of carers to provide kids in Melbourne’s west with stability, permanency, and love.

Withanincreasingnumberoflocalchildren in need of forever homes, the organisation is calling on the community to step forward and make a life-changing difference.

OzChild Western Melbourne foster care

program manager Jo Devlin said many children who have experienced abuse, neglect, or family breakdowns find themselves in the foster care system, desperately seeking a stable and nurturing environment.

“Way too many kids are growing up away from family, residing in group homes with otherchildrentheydon’tknow,andofvarying ages, supervised by youth workers rather than having the attention of parental figures,” she said.

“Without the stability of a family home many become disconnected from school

and the community leading to a lifetime of disadvantage.”

Foster carers play a pivotal role in providing children with a sense of belonging and the opportunity to thrive. Becoming a foster carer can make a lasting impact on a child’s life and contribute to the betterment of the entire community.

OzCare carers receive initial training and ongoing education, along with financial assistance and access to a network of professionals and a village of carers who are there for one another to offer support and

guidance.

In addition, regular support groups and respite care options are available to help foster carers navigate the challenges and celebrate the joys of fostering.

Ms Devlin said the rewards of being a carer can be life changing, for both the carer and children in need.

“I encourage anyone wanting to make a difference in your local community to reach out to our team, with so many kids in need carers are in high demand.”

Details: ozchild.org.au

Standing strong against Parkinson’s disease

ParKanDo is a grassroots support group for people impacted by Parkinson’s disease.

The group is entirely volunteer run by three members who have Parkinson’s as well as one carer.

Upon moving from Queensland, Peter Wall and his wife Carmel discovered that most activities for people with Parkinson’s were located on the east side.

“WemetPamatafunction,comparedstories and ideas and as a result, ParkanDo was born,” he said.

Pam West is co-leader with Mr Wall , who together run ParKanDo to spread awareness about Parkinson’s and offer activities.

Member surveys identified preferred activities to be weekly Dance for Parkinson’s, Painting with Parkinson’s, strength classes and a guest speaker program..

“We are a peer support group, we survey our membersandaskthemwhattheywantustodo for them,” said Ms West. “We are funded and

supported by Hobsons Bay council to be able to make the suggestions from ideas into reality.

“Another driving force for us, is to bust the myth that if you have Parkinson’s you don’t have a lot to contribute, we are just as able , we just do things differently.”

On Saturday, August 19, ParKanDo are hosting an Activity Fair at the Newport Community Hub, to get more people involved.

“There are 30 people diagnosed with Parkinson’s a day, and 800 people alone are diagnosed with Parkinson’s in Hobsons Bay alone,” said Mr Wall.

“We are not just a local group, we want to help as many people as possible.

“We currently have 99 members, when we set up our aim was to try and cover all of the west.

“There is a quote, I might have Parkinson’s but Parkinson’s doesn’t have me, that’s really important.”’

Jennifer Pittorino

Carmel Wall, Peter Wall and Pam West from ParKanDo. (Jacob Pattison) 348768_01

Cervical screening rates soar

More Victorian women, including those in Wyndham, who have never been screened for cervical cancer are testing thanks to the roll out of a new and less invasive testing option.

Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas visited the Royal Women’s Hospital on Monday, July 24, to mark one year since the self-collection option was introduced and remind all women, they need to be tested every five years.

Self-collection is a simple process which tests for human papillomavirus (HPV) – a common infection that can cause cervical

cancer. It allows women to collect their own sample and avoid a pap smear which many women report finding uncomfortable.

Providing an alternative reduce these barriers and ensure women who otherwise would have gone without a test are more likely to screen for cervical cancer.

Since the self-collection option was introducednationallyonJuly1,2022,Victoria has seen a rapid uptake in reported self-tests with the number rising from 180 in June 2022 to 2,13 in December 2022.

In further good news in 2022, 63 per cent of

the self-collected tests in Victoria were from people who had either never screened at all or screened less than the recommended amount of once every five years.

Among Victorians with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander background, there was a five-fold increase in the number of people choosing self-collected tests.

Self-collected tests now account for up to 12 percentofallmonthlycervicalscreeningtests in Victoria.

More than 70 per cent of cervical cancers occur in those who have never screened or

are overdue and self-collection will play a key role in our efforts toward the elimination of cervical cancer.

Australia’s world-leading screening program, combined with its HPV vaccination program, is putting Australia on track to be the first country in the world to eliminate cervical cancer as a public health concern, according to the state government.

The state government provides free cervical screening tests to at risk groups through its partnership with the Australian Centre for the Prevention of Cervical Cancer.

Morning tea with the mayor

Wyndham residents had the chance to discussissuesdirectlywithmayorSussan McIntyre in July at a morning tea she hosted at the Wyndham Civic Centre.

The morning tea was the latest ‘Meet the Mayor’ session where members of the public can learn more about council services and discuss matters concerning them, all while sharing a cuppa with Cr McIntyre.

“It was fabulous to meet so many members of our community, bringing people together and for residents to understand more about the range of council services offered with council staff on hand to provide information and answer questions,” she said yesterday’s event.

For those who missed out, the next morning tea is scheduled for October 23, but spots are limited and bookings are required.

“The morning teas have proven extremely popular this year,” Cr McIntyre said.

West winter appeal to help refugees

Charity West Welcome Wagon is running a winterappealtosupportasylumseekersinthe west.

West Welcome Wagon chair Chris Scerri said charity urgently needs funding support.

“We continue to see massive increases in calls for help from the refugees and asylum seekers living in our community,” he said.

“All funds received during our winter appeal will be matched by a generous donor, so now is the perfect time to double your impact and help us deliver more much needed items to those doing it tough this winter.

“It’s been a tough year for all fundraising and we are all noticing it.”

The team is trying to raise $25,000 this winterasthedemandforclothes,beddingand heatersincreasesforthe200newfamiliesthey help per year.

“In a typical year we distribute 120 heaters all around winter, we are currently sitting at giving out 280 beds a year.”

The charity is looking for anything that can support those doing it tough this winter.

“We need beds, linen , sheets and of course money to buy things like underwear, socks and doona’s that we can’t accept from donations.

“This winter we have noticed a lot of requests coming through, there has been a huge increase in demand in the last year.

“We have noticed the need increase 60 per cent since the previous year, which is 40 per cent higher than pre COVID numbers.”

Mr Scerri said winter is especially tough for migrants given the huge temperature difference.

“Our southern winter is a huge shock for them coming from a northern summer, therefore they need more warm clothing.

“Seventy per cent of the people we help are children, any donations go towards giving them a fresh start.”

Details: https://www.givenow.com.au/ winterappeal2023

Jennifer Pittorino

Victorians encouraged to claim $109m in entitlements

Almost $1.25 million of Wyndham residents’ moneyisbeingheldbytheStateRevenueOffice (SRO), which is encouraging people to go online to find out if they are among thousands of people with a claim in the pool.

Morethan$100millionisowedtoVictorians by the SRO including more than quarter of a million dollars to one woman living in Ardeer.

The office holds records of money that are unclaimed after 12 months, including refunds, rents and bonds, share dividends, salaries and wages, debentures, interest and

proceeds from sales.

The most lucrative potential windfalls belong to a man last listed as living in Box Hill ($882,697) and an Ardeer woman ($259,828).

There are roughly 678,000 entitlements, including 45,653 claims worth $13,633,759 in the City of Melbourne, 36,332 worth $7,516,798 in Stonnington and 35,246 worth $7,103,869 in Boroondara.

The top three largest entitlement pools within regional Victoria are from Mornington Peninsula ($2,811,030), Yarra

Ranges ($2,072,196) and Greater Geelong ($1,906,251).

Most of the entitlement records have been held for less than 10 years.

The office also holds winnings from TAB, Tabcorp, Tattersalls and Intralot that are unclaimed for six months or more.

A winning ticket from March 2016 for $2,136,327 is yet to be cashed in.

Tosearchfortheunclaimedcash,Victorians will need their name or company name and the address of the lodging organisation would

have had on file.

“This is money that belongs to citizens and we want it in their hands,“ Treasurer Tim Pallas said.

“If the SRO is holding unclaimed money in your name you’ll know within seconds, and the process for recovery is straightforward.“

Victorian businesses and trustees holding $20 or more in unclaimed money must record and keep the money for at least 12 months before lodging it with the SRO.

Colette McInerney, Jude Twyman and Patrick Massaguoi at the West Welcome Wagon warehouse. (Damjan Janevski) 350127_01

Wyndham mayor Susan McIntyre and a constituent at the ‘Meet the Mayor’ morning tea. (Supplied)

Councillors lend a hand

Wyndham councillors Marcel Mafhoud and Robert Szatkowski got their hands dirty earlier this week, joining council staff for the third clean-up blitz of 2023.

Organised by the Council Waste Education Team, four trucks carrying the councillors, councilstaff,littercrewsandlocallawsofficers took to the streets of Hoppers Crossing on Wednesday, July 26.

Targeting the area around Bellbridge Drive, the crews picked up abandoned white goods, furniture and general dumped rubbish.

Along with removing waste, the crews spoke to local residents about the importance of organising hard rubbish collections rather than simply dumping unwanted goods on their nature strips.

Wyndham households are offered three free hard and green waste collection services each financial year.

To book and for more information, visit: https://www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/book-hardgreen-waste-collection.

Council staff during Wednesday’s clean-up blitz in Hoppers Crossing. (supplied).

Ready to play at reserve

Werribee children and their parents have a new destination for play time, with upgrades to Conquest Drive Reserve now complete.

The $240,000 refurbishment includes a new half basketball court, playground and fitness equipment, while the kickabout lawn, gazebo, barbecue and picnic setting have been upgraded.

Extratrees,gardenbedsandlighting have also been added.

Wyndham councillor Peter Maynard said playgrounds and parks were important community assets and that council was committed to improving.

“Creating better parks and public spaces is a priority for council, and the Conquest Drive Reserve upgrade is one example of where we’re delivering better parks and open spaces for residents to get out, enjoy and keep active,” Cr Maynard said.

“This Wyndham City project is part of council’s parks asset renewal program, an annual program that transforms ageing parks into new and improved spaces that better meet the community’s needs.”

Burgundy Drive Reserve in WyndhamValeandNangilocCrescent Reserve in Werribee are other parks that have recently been upgraded, while improvements to Truganina’s Aquarius Drive Reserve are due to be completed next month.

YOUR

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

Mandy Clark

A truck laden with rubbish. (supplied).

The crew for Wednesday’s clean-up blitz in Hoppers Crossing. (supplied).

It was a team effort to clean-up Hoppers Crossing. (supplied).

Keeping an eye on tradie health

August marks Tradies National Health Month (TNHM), an initiative run by the Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA) to raise awareness about the importance of tradies’ health and wellbeing. Hannah Hammoud spoke with advocates who are calling on labourers and tradespeople to be vigilant in looking after their eyes and ears on the job to avoid long term, often preventable, and in some cases irreversible, damage to their eyesight and hearing.

Optometrist Michael Angerame said each year TNHM works as a reminder for tradespeople to protect themselves from injury on the job. He said when it comes to eye and ear protection, prevention is always better than cure.

“Optometrists see a lot of tradies present that tend to have a foreign body in their eyes, either they’ve been grinding metal or using equipment without the correct safety protection for their eyes. They either have dust, metal, dirt or grit in their eyes that we have to remove,” he said.

“Optometrists are trained and we are able to remove these foreign bodies from the eye, butinsomecaseswhenwedoremoveitthere’s still impact on the vision that can potentially be long-term depending on the extent of the injury.

“While in most cases it’s just a matter of easily removing the object from the eye and prescribing some eye drops for the eye to heal, in some cases our patients aren’t as lucky and depending on the depth of the object in the eyeorthetypeofobjectitcanleadtoinfection or a number of complications to their vision.”

In April, research from the Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital revealed a concerning increase in men presenting to the emergency department with work-related eye trauma, recording a 41 per cent growth over the past five years.

Mr Angerame said this data indicates a concerningdeclineofawarenessinpreventing eye related accidents.

“These statistics show that the public is not adhering to safety procedures as much as we would like them to,” he said.

Research by Specsavers echoes these findings, revealing that younger tradies aged 18-34 are already reporting concerns over worksite damage, with 37 per cent of tradies in that age bracket incurring a workplace eye injury that required medical attention.

Yaraville electrician Matthew Garbett, 31, said that an incident he had as an apprentice where hot steel landed into his eye forced him to take his health and safety more seriously.

“I had my safety goggles on but I wasn’t wearing them correctly, they weren’t sitting properly on my face. Back then we weren’t really trained on how to wear protective equipment and people didn’t really know how to wear them right,” he said.

“Hot steel landed into my eye on the jobsite and I had to go to the eye and ear hospital to get it scratched out. There was no lasting damage but the process was painful.”

Mr Garbett said it is more often younger tradies who underestimate the importance of protective equipment.

“As you get older you take your health a bit more seriously in every aspect… you realise that you’ve only got one pair of eyes,” he said.

Mr Garbett has been an electrician for 10 years and is currently working on the Melbourne Metro Tunnel Project. He said the culture on job sites has changed and safety breaches are now strictly policed.

“If you aren’t wearing the correct safety equipment you can get reinducted and taken off site,” he said.

“On these bigger projects, you go through a series of inductions where they show you

how to wear the equipment properly. So even ifpeopledon’ttakeitseriouslytheygetusedto wearing the equipment every time they’re on site because they have to.”

Data from the 2021 census lists technicians and trades workers as the third largest occupation sector in Victoria employing more than 399,000 Victorians.

As a working optometrist, Mr Angerame said he tends to see a higher number of

incidents occurring in regional areas.

Mr Angerame said professions such as tradesthatareregularlyexposedtorisks,need to keep in mind the importance of regular eye and ear tests. Recommending people to get their eyes and ears tested every two years, or every year if they are over the age of 65.

Other top tips include:

1/ Wear hearing protection when exposed to loud noise, such as earplugs, earmuffs or both.

2/ Wear safety goggles to protect from debris and small bits of metal, dust, dirt or grit from getting into the eye. These can cause the eyes to water, cause redness, pain, and a scratchy sensation on the eye. This type of irritationcancausevisiontobecomeblurryor sensitive to light and can even cause damage to the cornea.

3/ Wear full coverage sunglasses when working outside to protect from direct sunlight, as well as to protect from the reflective glare from machinery, buildings or the sidewalk.

4/ Reduce the number of different noises at any one time, such as simultaneous conversations, working power tools, as well as a loud radio which can place undue strain on the ears.

5/ Testthenoiseoftheworkingenvironment by using the ‘one metre rule’. If you need to raise your voice to talk to someone about one metre away, you can assume the sound level is likely to be hazardous to hearing.

National spokesperson for this year’s TNHM campaign, APA occupational health physiotherapist Lucia Tsui said the message of early intervention needs to be driven home, as it is key to stopping small issues from morphing into more serious conditions.

“Tradies put their bodies through a lot, and we want to encourage tradies to do what they can as early as possible in their career to promote longevity and keep their bodies healthy as they age,” she said.

“The pension age rose to 67 for tradies last month, which means tradies need to keep their body as healthy as possible – for longer than ever. A tradie’s body is their biggest asset, so taking care of it now will keep them healthier long into the future.”

Electrician Matthew Garbett takes his health seriously on the job site. (Supplied)

‘‘ A tradie’s body is their biggest asset, so taking care of it now will keep them healthier long into the future ’’

- Lucia Tsui

Optometrist Michael Angerame says when it comes to eye and ear protection, prevention is better than cure. (Supplied)

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Star Weekly looks back through the pages of our predecessors

40 years ago

August 3, 1983

Theftsandburglariesarerunningrampant in Werribee, and one of the hardest hit areas is the town’s main business district.

30 years ago

August 4, 1993

After lengthy delays, Werribee is set to get a new cinema complex as well as new department stores and a child care centre.

20 years

July 30, 2003

The sisters of the Parish of St Peter and St Paul, in the District of Aileu in East Timor, say God works in mysterious ways.

10 years ago

July 31, 2013

Werribee resident Joanne Ryan has been confirmed as the ALP candidate for Lalor after a lengthy preselection battle.

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

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.

■ 0408 123 669

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.

■ Jorge, 0433 566 575

Bingo for all

The Werribee RSL hosts Bingo every Monday. 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, 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

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

English lessons

Want to learn English in a fun and relaxed setting? Build your English, digital and employability skills with the Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP). AMEP now available in Williamstown. Laverton Community Education Centre now offers free AMEP classes to eligible clients at Joan Kirner House in Williamstown. Classes are on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 9.30 am -3.00 pm. Childcare is available for children who are under school age. Laverton Community Education Centre is a Not -for -profit organisation. The Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP) is funded by the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs.

■ 93692726.

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

Walking group

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

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

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

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of writer, director and actress Alaine Beek and actor Ross Daniels from What Was That? 1000th Show at Werribee Mansion. (Damjan Janevski) 349109_01

PUZZLES

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

QUICK CROSSWORD

ACROSS

1 Detergent (4)

3 Very generous (10)

10 Examined (7)

11 Republic in northwest Africa (7)

12 Irascible (8)

13 Put to rest (5)

14 Domestic animals (4)

15 Annotations; game’s on-air description (10)

18 Keeping financial records (10)

20 Vicious (4)

21 Japanese dish (5)

23 Cherished (8)

26 Associate (7)

27 18th century Protestant theorist, Jonathan – (7)

28 Railway vehicle (10)

29 Biblical garden (4)

DOWN

1 Window frame (4)

2 Indifferent (9)

4 On the ground (9)

5 Actor, Oscar – (5)

6 Impress on the mind (7)

7 Actor, – Flynn (5)

8 Weepy; emotional (5-4)

9 Involving more than one country (abbr) 4)

14 Relating to European orchestral music (9)

16 Russian chemist who developed periodic table of the chemical elements (9)

17 Equipped (9)

19 Consistent (7)

22 Of sound waves (5)

23 Small in French (5)

24 US state (4)

25 Book ID (1,1,1,1)

DECODER WORDFIT

1 14

2 15

3 16

4 17

5 18

6 19

7 20

8 21

9-LETTER WORD

9 22

10 23

11 24

12 345678910111213

12 25

921854673

543672891

615237984 159726438

392485167 478391256

867913542

236548719

873692541

397264185

265819734

526147893 658431972

419385267 741928356

easy medium hard

184753629

932576418

R Today’s Aim:

427951638

546379821

789216354

784169325 273184965

658432179 195623487

F E 3 LETTERS AND ANT ARE BOA COO EAR EAT EKE ERA EWE HOE IDS IRE KIN ODE OHM ORE PRO RID ROE SEA SIT TIE UTE 4 LETTERS ARMS BLAB CEDE DAUB ELSE HOGS ONUS SACS SEAT SECT SEES SNAP SPAS TIRE

312845796

931768542 864597213

felt, floe, flog, floret, flour, flout, flue, flute, FORGETFUL, foul, fouler, fretful, furl, gelt, glue, glut, golf, golfer, gruel, gulf, left, loft, loge, lore, lour, lout, lure, lute, ogle, role, ruffle, rule, truffle

1415 1617181920212223242526 O U F K V D P X I L J N Y A H W G B C E Z M Q T R S 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. 144

QUICK QUIZ

5 LETTERS ABBOT ANGST APRON ARGUE AROMA ASIAN ASIDE ATOMS BRUSH BUSES CACTI CREST CRIME DOONA EAGER EASES ENTER ERECT FASTS FLAIL

GOATS HAVES HAVOC HEATS IDOLS IRKED ISLES MODEL NEIGH OBESE OCTAL OFFER PANDA PASTE PERIL POUCH RHINO RIDES SANER SCENE SEEDS

SHOUT SOLAR SORTS STAIR TESTS THERE UNTIE VISED VISTA 6 LETTERS ADHERE APPEAR HASSLE IRISES

7 LETTERS ASTRIDE EASTERN ENRAGES OCTAGON TRAINED WHITEST 8 LETTERS ASTUTEST ATTAINED BLACKTOP HANDICAP

04-08-23 Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

1 In which decade did Australia implement the eight-hour work day nationally for all industries?

2 Which famous poem contains the lines "The time has come," the Walrus said/"To talk of many things:/Of shoes and ships and sealing wax/ Of cabbages and kings"'?

3 What field of study is concerned with moral issues of biological research and medical practice?

4 In March of which year did the Ansett Australia Group cease operating?

5 The Komodo dragon (pictured) inhabits five islands, including the island of Komodo, in which country?

6 What three colours are on the Jamaican flag?

7 Which sought-after medal depicts three men with their hands on each other’s shoulders?

8 What is the collective term for the odourless, colourless, single-atom gases such as helium?

9 In rowing, which member steers and coordinates the rhythm of the rowers?

10 What is the largest city square in the world?

13 26 TS ANSWERS: 1. 1920s 2. The Walrus and the Carpenter, by Lewis Carroll 3. Bioethics 4. 2002 5. Indonesia 6. Black, yellow and green 7. The Nobel Peace Prize medal 8. Noble gases 9. Coxswain 10. Xinghai Square

No. 144

No. 144

No. 144

PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENT ACT 1987 FORM 2 PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENT REGULATIONS 2015

Application documents are available to view via Council’s website or at the Civic Centre:

Any person who may be affected by the granting of the permit may object or make other submission to the Responsible Authority by post or in person or;

-Online: www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/planningobjection

- Email: mail@wyndham.vic.gov.au

An objection must be made to the Responsible Authority in writing, include the reasons for the objection and state how the objector would be affected.

If you object, the Responsible Authority will tell you of its decision. Council must make a copy of every objection available at its office for any person to inspect during office hours free of charge until the end of the period during which an application may be made for review of a decision on the application.

The Responsible Authority will not decide on the application before: 17th August 2023

Keogh/Parsons

Heather and Frank welcome a beautiful grandson, Artie Andrew. Brother for Bella and Noah. Cousin

General Classifieds

VINYL RECORDS

WANTED

-Our buyers will travel to most areas of Melbourne for house calls.

-We pay fair cash prices.

-We purchase a wide variety of genres and artists.

-No collection is too big or small

-We are a friendly bunch , and are happy to arrange a time that suits. Call

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.

proposal. Further information and/or comments should be directed to: Abhishek Gampala at Nokia Solutions & Networks on 0413 809 856 or atcommunityrelations.vha@groups.nokia.com by COB 17th August 2023. Further information may be obtained from the RFNSA website at www.rfnsa.com.au/3030006

Building drivers’ electric dreams

By Alistair Kennedy

Although the name BYD will be well-known to electricvehiclebuyers,it’sstilllargelyunknown in the Australian motoring mainstream – but that’s about to change.

SomewhatquirkilyBYDstandsforBuildYour Dreams and the Chinese company is actually the world’s second-largest manufacturer of fully-electrified vehicles, second only to Tesla.

When plug-in hybrids (PHEV) are added, it’s the largest, with over 1.6 million built in 2022.

Although there were a couple of BYD models sold in Australia from 2017 onwards these were private imports.

It wasn’t until the arrival of the Atto 3 in June, 2022 that the brand made any impact, and an impressive one at that, with sales of nearly 7000 in its first year.

A fully-electric compact SUV, the Atto 3 comes in two variants. There’s Standard Range and Extended Range, priced at $48,011 and $51,011 respectively (plus ORCs).

That’s around the same price as its closest competitor and compatriot, the MG ZS EV whichalsocomeswithstandardandlong-range variants.

Styling

With a length of 4455mm, Atto 3 is around the same size as Mazda CX-3, Nissan Qashqai and Toyota CH-R – but 135mm longer than the MG.

Although the overall design of the Atto 3 is neat and attractive, it’s relatively conservative especially when compared to the Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6.

As with most electric cars there’s no real or pretend grille.

A horizontal bar with the BYD insignia on it merges into narrow sweeping LED headlights with a thin band of LED daytime running lights between them.

The profile is similar to many similarly-sized SUVs although we did love the design of the 18-inch alloy wheels.

We find the ‘Build Your Dreams’ lettering spaced across the rear a bit too quirky.

We understand that some owners have been able to successfully remove the letters without causingdamage–butdon’ttakeourwordforit.

The rear also features a full width LED brake light and powered tailgate.

Four colours are offered. White is standard while the other three (grey, blue and red) are $700 extra.

Interior

When you step inside the BYD Atto 3 Monty Python’scatchphrase“AndNowForSomething Completely Different” springs to mind.

It is very different with a number of groundbreaking interior features.

We reckon buyers who are willing to think outside the square and buy a BYD will love the adventurous approach of this newcomer to the Australian market.

With predominantly sculpted soft-touch materials, overall build quality and fit and finish of the Atto 3 is excellent.

Some of the features are gimmicky, others are functional. Some are both, such as the three guitar-type strings that act as sides of the door storage pockets, but which are just asking to be twanged.

We shudder to think how annoying that couldbeonalongtripwithchildrenintherear.

After initially searching for the interior door handles, we found they were flip-up levers on top of the small round speakers in each door. In this case however form and function combined nicely and we quickly adapted to them.

Large circular air vents dominate the front of the centre console but are easy to adjust and provide excellent air flow.

In front of the driver is a 5.0-inch screen that effectively combines a head-up display with a digital instrument panel cluster.

The front seats are large, supportive and comfortable although the headrests are moulded into the seatbacks, so they can’t be adjusted.

They also partially block forward vision of rear-seat occupants.

Otherwise, rear passengers are well catered for with a similarly comfortable bench seat, although they do have adjustable headrests.

There’s plenty of leg, ankle and headroom with the flat floor making the centre seat more bearable than vehicles with a transmission tunnel.

The air vents are the same design as those in the front.

The panoramic sunroof extends across the full roof with a powered blind, although only the front section can be opened.

Available boot space ranges from 440 to 1340 litres with a powered bootlid and two adjustable floor levels.

There is no spare wheel, just a tyre repair kit below the boot floor.

Safety

Atto 3 scores a full five stars for safety, with an extensive list of safety equipment, starting with seven airbags, six radars, adaptive cruise control with stop/start, automatic emergency braking, front and rear collision warning, blind spot monitoring, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, rear cross-traffic alert and braking.

There are front and rear parking sensors, rear-view 360-degree cameras, Isofix child seat anchor points and hill descent control.

Infotainment

The standout feature is the 12.0-inch high-definition tablet-style touchscreen which, at the touch can rotate between landscape and portrait format.

So, for features like map and camera displays it works best in landscape, while for most other features, portrait is not only more suitable but also brings the screen within closer reach of the driver.

The original Atto 3 did not come with either Apple CarPlay or Android Auto but these have been added with the MY2023 update and will also be installed as part of the latest upgrade for earlier models.

Apple CarPlay is wired, Android Auto is wireless.

There is a wireless smartphone charging pad at the base of the front console.

Sound comes through an eight-speaker Dirac digital audio system.

There are USB-C and USB-A ports underneath the centre console and also in the rear.

Thecamerasprovidealargevarietyoffeatures including a dashcam which automatically records and saves action in front of the car.

The videos are stored on a memory card which can be extracted and the videos transferred to an external source. Very handy if there are any incidents or even to monitor the driving habits of different drivers. Young or inexperienced drivers – you have been warned!

Driving

At this point in time, BYD doesn’t have the same media fleet as almost all other brands, so we weren’t able to conduct our normal week-long test.

Fortunately, however, one of our neighbours recently bought an Atto 3 and she was able to give us a guided tour of the car and let us take it around our usual drive route.

Apart from the normal key fob the Atto 3 comes with a plastic card which opens and closes the car by tapping it on the driver’s side door handle.

Entry is quite easy even for larger occupants and the seats are large, supportive and comfortable.

There’s an aircraft-style gear selector which is fun to use.

Like all other electrified vehicles, the instant torque provides exhilarating speed off the mark. The dash to 100km/h takes 7.3 seconds which is brisk but not nearly as quick as many EVs.

Drive is to the front wheels through a single speedtransmission,withasingleelectricmotor for the front axle that puts out 150kW of power and 310Nm of torque.

The standard model gets a 49.92kWh battery and the long range, 60.48kWh.

Regardless, energy consumption is 16.0kWh/100km with a driving range that is listed for the two variants at 410km and 480km under the old NEDC system or 345km and 420km using the more realistic WLTP measure.

Our test car was the Atto 3 Extended Range variant.

Atto 3 Standard Range: $48,011

Atto 3 Extended Range: $51,011

SPECIFICATIONS

BYD Atto 3 fully-electric five-door SUV

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

Itslargerbatterybringskerbweightto1750kg -- 70kg heavier than the Standard Range. Inevitably extra weight affects performance and we found the Extended Range Atto 3 a little more sluggish than competitors with lighter batteries.

So, something of a trade-off there.

The car’s regenerative braking has only two modes, standard and high, operated by a small toggle lever on the centre console rather than the more convenient steering wheel paddles of most EVs.

Nor is there a single-pedal option so the brake pedal needs to be employed to bring the car to a stop.

Atto 3 is built on 400-volt electrical architecture and supports maximum AC charging (Type 2) of 7 kW (standard) or 11 kW (option) as well as DC fast charging (CCS2) at a maximum rate of either 70kW (Standard Range) or 80kW (Extended Range).

It does have V2L (Vehicle-To-Load) charging which allows external items to be powered from the vehicle.

Summing up

More and more people are asking us about fully-electric cars. Our standard response is to hold off until prices reduce and the driving ranges increase.

That time is moving closer, triggered mainly by the arrival of Chinese EVs such as the MG ZS EV, GMW Ora and – most impressive of all – the BYD Atto 3.

Although it lacks the head-turning looks and performance of rivals such as the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kia EV 6, the Atto 3 is significantly cheaper and, at the end of the day, most EV owners are looking for sensible, affordable transport rather than sportiness.

There’s no doubt the Atto 3’s interior, with its combination of quirkiness and gee-whiz technology, will attract most sales.

So, if you are going to take one for a test drive, and we’d certainly recommend doing so, then set aside plenty of time to experiment with the many features.

It’s an ideal size for a small family and for urban commuting, with very competitive pricing.

And, with zero emissions, the planet will thank you.

Point Cook Centrals promoted to division 4

Point Cook Centrals have jumped at the opportunity to test themselves in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association division 4 this season.

The Sharks, who changed their name from Sanctuary Lakes in the off season, are one of two clubs that have been promoted from division 5 to division 4 due to structure changes.

The Sharks and Melton South Royals will join both division 5 grand finalists from last season East Coburg and Footscray Angliss in the higher grade.

Club vice-president and senior captain Brett Talbot said they didn’t hesitate when they had the chance to move up the grades.

“About a month ago, the VTCA came to us and said the opportunity was there and did we want to do it,” he said.

“There are no guarantees in life, but it was a great opportunity to test ourselves. There were one or two fortunate teams and we were one of them.”

Talbot said the opportunity recognised the work that had been done at the club the

last few years.

He said the seniors were making progress, having made finals last season, while their second and third XIs and under-18s were getting plenty of wins too.

The club’s female program is also going from strength to strength.

The Sharks had already strengthened their squad in the off season for a real tilt at the division 5 premiership, with Talbot saying

they believed they would be competitive in the higher grade.

“We have had five signings this year which has helped,” he said. “Going up a division we want to have a real red hot crack and we want to challenge at the higher level.”

Ashen Perera joins the club from North Metro Cricket Association club Rosebank, having previously played with Sunshine.

He is a strong fast bowler, with best bowling

Warriors’ tough season

By Tara Murray

The morale remains high at Hoppers Crossing despite a tough Western Region Football League division 1 season.

The Warriors have won just one game for the season after being a constant finals contender for a number of years.

Warriors coach Adam Contessa admits it has been a tough season.

“It has been hard and challenging,” he said.

“We’ve had some growth from some of the challenges, but it hasn’t been ideal. As of last week, we’d had 19 different debutants this year, which is unheard of really.

“We’ve had the opportunity to blood some young guys and see where they are at and give them senior footy experience.”

Contessa said while some players had been given an opportunity before they were ready, others had really impressed and were regulars in the side.

“It’s a lot better to play the young kids than

the older guys, who aren’t the future of the club,” he said.

“It’s a lot quicker taste than they probably need, but it is necessary. Over the last month we’ve seen them go to another level.

“Cal Buckingham has been a big improver, while Caleb Sciberras-Harris joined the club late, has a fair bit of upside.”

Contessa said with such a young playing group, they had managed to keep the atmosphere high, when they could have easily jumped off.

He said getting a few guys back which was resulting in some wins in the reserves was helping.

“The morale is still pretty good which is surprising at this time of year with no chance of making finals,” he said. “Things can drop off.

“We’ve got a fairly young group and these young guys have galvanised the group. The reserves have now won three games in a row and that helps with the spirit of the group.”

The Warriors had the weekend off, with no

games in the division 1 competition on the weekend.

Contessa said they would get some personnel back this week, which would be a big boost to the group.

“Last week we had five injury changes,” he said. “Caleb got hurt in the warm and we had to make a change at 1.55pm.

“After the bye we will potentially get six or seven players back from injury. Braden Ferrari and Liam McMahon, who have missed a big chunk of the season are back now and provide some of that senior experience.”

The last month of matches isn’t easy for the Warriors, facing the four sides that are in the finals mix.

Hoping to avoid finishing bottom, Contessa knows it will be a tough challenge for them.

“Hopefully we can shape the finals,” he said. “Our main goal now is to stay up.

“It will be difficult with the draw we have got, but we’ll put our best foot forward and hopefully get a few more wins.”

figures of 5-17 and is seen as an excellent athlete and accomplished batsmen.

Puneesh Sharma joins the club having captained another VTCA side the past few seasons.

He is another bowler, who is capable of providing some batting depth.

Rasanjana Don Arachchige joins the club from East Keilor, having previously won the division 3 player of the year award.

Saroos Jazeem returns for a second season in Australia, as a top-middle order batter and an excellent fielder.

Dimantha Fernando is the other signing for the Sharks, joining the club as a wicketkeeper and top order batsman.

He has a top score of 230 not out and compiled in excess of 350 runs per year the past two seasons.

Talbot said the addition of these players would help strengthen all their senior sides.

He said they had a talented bunch of 14-15-year-olds, who should start progressing into the seniors the next 24 months.

Sports shorts

WRFL

Tarneit returned to the winners list in the Western Region Football League division 3 competition on Saturday. Facing Laverton, the Titans blew the game open in the second quarter with eight goals to none to lead by 39 points at half time. The Titans were able to maintain the lead in the third quarter before finishing off strongly to seal a 16.11 (107)-5.12 (42) win. Co-captain Zach Thornton was named the Titans best. In other results, the Suns beat West Footscray. In division 2, Wyndhamvale lost to Parkside.

NPL

Werribee City returned to the winners list in the National Premier League 2 competition on Saturday night against Brunswick City. Having not won since May, the Bees were able to get a second half goal to get the 1-0 win. The win is a crucial one and moves the Bees three points clear of 12th, four points clear of 13th and seven points clear of bottom.

A-League

Riku Danzaki is returning to the A-League Men’s competition, signing with Western United for the next two seasons. The 23-year-old Japanese playmaker joins the green and black on a two-year deal from Scottish Premier League outfit Motherwell FC, where he made four appearances after signing in January having spent the first half of the 2022-23 season on loan at Brisbane Roar.

GDFL

Werribee Centrals’ finals hopes suffered a setback with a loss to the Belmont Lions in the Geelong and District Football League on Saturday.

The Lions jumped out of the blocks and led by 25 points at quarter time and 37 at the half. The Centurions reduced the margin in the third quarter, but the Lions were able to do enough to come away with a 15.16 (106)-11.11 (77). The Centurions now sit in sixth spot, a game outside the top five.

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Brett Talbot. (Jacob Pattison) 317177_08

Hoppers Crossing has had plenty challenges. (Local Legends Photography)

Wyndham reflects on championship successes

Wyndham Basketball Association relived one of its most special weekends on Sunday.

During the club’s senior double header, the club unveiled its championship banners from last year’s success. For the women’s side it was their second championship in a row having won the 2019 title, while the men’s title had been 19 years in making.

Both sides are on top of the championship ladders, aiming to win more titles.

On Sunday, the association presented the men’s and women’s championship sides from last season with their championship rings, while also unveiling the winning banners at the stadium.

As part of the celebrations, the association held a three-point girls competition at half time of the women’s match and a dunk boys competition at half time during the men’s match.

At quarter and three quarter times in

both matches there were sprint races for the under-10 boys and girls.

On court, the men’s side locked up top spot with back-to-back wins on the weekend.

On Saturday night, Wyndham beat the Western Port Steelers 101-81 and then Melbourne University on Sunday, 110-86 to have beaten every team this season.

As reward for claiming the minor premiership, Wyndham has the first week of finals off.

It will face either the Hume City Broncos and the Sunbury Jets the following week for a spot in the grand final. Wyndham’s women’s side is just one win away from completing the perfect championship regular season.

On Sunday, Wyndham beat the Hume City Broncos, 98-72.

Wyndham finishes the regular season on Saturday night against the McKinnon Cougars on the road.

Falcons get two through

The City West Falcons will again have twosidesintheVictorianNetballLeague grand finals, but it was heartbreak for their third side.

The Falcons championship and under-19 teams won through the decider on Wednesday night, keeping alive their dreams of going back-to-back.

Falcons coach Marg Lind said it was exciting to get two teams in the grand final, but was it disappointing for the division 1 side to fall short.

The championship side had to pull on all their strength to beat the Geelong Cougars, 59-52. Lind said the match was a challenging one.

“It was very physical,” she said. “I thought we had to stand up many times throughout the game and we responded really well.

“They have a little bit of a different attackingend.Theycangoarollingcircle and add some height with Daisy O’Kane.

Ahmed returns to Cats

By Harper Sercombe

Fawad Ahmed has travelled the world with his crafty leg-spinners but he will be taking his talents back to Hoppers Crossing for the upcoming Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association season.

Ahmed developed his craft at the club in 2010-11 and 2011-12 seasons where he picked up 90 wickets at an average of about11 which resulted in him being awarded as the consecutive club champion.

Eleven years on and Ahmed has more than 200 first class wickets, 172 top level T20 wickets and has played white ball cricket for Australia.

A player of this level is something the Cats captain-coach Simon Lambert could have only dreamt of.

“We’re obviously really pleased to have a player of Fawad’s calibre coming back to the club,” he said.

“Hopefully he can install some higher standards across the club and really take our performances as a club and as a first team to the next level.”

Ahmed’s strengths will not be limited to just his on field capabilities but to also help

nurture and teach valuable lessons to all at the club including their large crop of young spinners Lambert said.

“His knowledge of spin bowling is going to beinvaluabletothoseyoungerguysandfellow spinners at the club,” he said.

“They’ll be able to gain so much knowledge and learnings from him and hopefully that enables their games to go to the next level as well.

“Overall, he should have a big impact not just on the field but off the field, and hopefully it makes people want to come and join the club as well.”

After falling agonisingly short of finals last season Lambert said Ahmed’s experience could take the team deep into the finals this time around. The Cats were in the top six for most of the season, before a final round loss ended their finals hopes.

“We probably just lacked a little bit of something extra with the ball and probably a bit of experience in those tight situations,” he said.

“He’s been all over the world, and played in a lot of big games, he can provide that composure and experience we were probably lacking this year.

“[Last season] we lost a lot of tight games and ended up losing our finals spot on the last game of the season.

“We believe we’re one of the better teams in the competition, and feel if we made finals, we sort of felt we would have gotten very close to winning it.

“[This season] making finals is a bare minimum, and then hopefully going really close to winning a flag.”

While Lambert is hopeful Ahmed’s impact around the club will be stark, he said the team will not be reliant on his leg spinning brilliance.

“Obviously getting Fawad is a huge get for us, but by no means does it mean we’re relying on one man, we’ve got some really quality cricketers in the side and he’s just another one to add to that list,” he said.

“We’ve got a lot of match winners so it’s still going to be a team effort.

“But there’s no doubt having someone of his calibre in that 11 is going to help us in those important situations.

“And hopefully he can bamboozle a fair few batters around competition.”

“I think they threw out just about every line up they had and it was about that adjustment and not panicking and staying calm.”

While the Cougars threw their combinations around, the Falcons were limited to just eight players. Missing two players at the World Cup, the Falcons looked to qualify Kim Borger and Molly Kennedy in the final rounds.

While they did that, Borger wasn’t able to play due to injury, while Kennedy was sick and missed the game.

The only changes the Falcons made were in defence, which Lind said was what they needed with the Cougars changing circle. Jane Cook shot 48 goals for the Falcons, while it was Maddie Gray that really impressed Lind.

It’s one of the rare times that Gray has played the whole 60 minutes this season.

“She was smashed all game and in the last quarter under pressure with the Geelong bench volume she really stood up and took it.

“Maddie has done the hard work and we are one of the hardest working teams. We were confident that we could run out the game well.”

Tara Murray

Wyndham with the championship banners (Supplied)

Fawad Ahmed is returning to Hoppers Crossing. (AAP Image/David Crosling)

Werribee overcomes slow start for 13 straight

By Tara Murray

Werribee overcame a slow start to take its winning streak to 13 games in the Victorian Football League.

A strong North Melbourne team pushed Werribee early with the Kangaroos leading by 17 points at the first change.

The middle two quarters saw a Werribee side that we had become used to seeing this year, with Werribee taking a 26 point lead in the final quarter.

Kicking with the breeze in the final quarter, Werribee was able to finish off strongly, sealing a 6.14 (110)-7.11 (53) win.

Werribee coach Michael Barlow said North took it up to them early and they had to work hard to take control of the game.

“It was windy, tough conditions,” he said.

“We were beaten out of the middle early on. They jumped us with three goals and had they taken some opportunities the score line might have been less flattering.

“We then missed a few opportunities late in the quarter. The first 15 minutes we were poor around the ball… we were able to fix that quickly.”

Barlow said they always knew it was going to be tough in the middle of the ground, with the Kangaroos having former AFL captain Ben Cunningham, Hugh Greenwood, Charlie Lazzaro and Tom Powell around the ball.

He said the on field leaders were able to adjust to what was happening around the ball, which was a strength of the opposition, and take it away from them.

“The first 15 minutes of the second quarter looked liked a lot more than what we know,” he said.

“The back half of the first quarter, the second and third quarters and the back half of the fourth quarter we played really well.”

Barlow said challenges like this would only make them better with some tough opposition to face on the run home.

A pleasing thing, the performance was an improvement on their game against Frankston the previous week.

Barlow said they had seen how they train reflect on game day.

“At training we review and then train and prepare for the next week, like clockwork,” he said.

“There’s a correlation with how we feel about training and moving into playing that week.

“We didn’t have the level of intensity and we plateaued for the Frankston game with the way we trained and prepared.

“There was a rise in training coming into the North game.”

Nick Hayes kicked four goals for Werribee, while Hudson Garoni kicked three goals and Sam Paea kicked two goals.

Barlow said it was one of the best performances from the forward line this season.

“The forward line was really effective,” he said. “At three quarter time they had more inside 50s than us.

“The ability of our forwards to execute was at the best level it has been all year. Nick Hayes, Michael Selsby and Hudson Garoni were all integral in that part.”

Barlow said the defensive team again worked really strongly as a team, while highlighting the performances of Jesse Clark and Sam Clohesy.

Barlow said Dom Brew, who had the job on Greenwood, also had a good game.

In positive news for Werribee, Matt Hanson made his return from injury.

Barlow said they feel like they are close to having their best line up available, with only a few players on the edge of the side batting some niggling injures.

Werribee this week faces 10th placed Collingwood on Sunday at 12pm at Avalon Airport Oval.

Despite being the higher ranked team, sitting second, Barlow said they would go in as underdogs.

“You can not look too deeply into the ladder,” he said. “They’re an AFL-aligned club and they beat Carlton on the weekend and Carlton were paying strongly.

“They’ll likely have 18-19 AFL guys.”

Werribee celebrate Matt Hanson kicking a goal. (Belinda Vitacca Photography)

Werribee celebrates the win. (Belinda Vitacca Photography)