Star Weekly - Hobsons Bay Maribyrnong - 30th August 2023

Month of Snuffest

The Snuff Puppets are returning to Footscray to host a month-long new puppet festival called Snuffest.

Snuffest is described by founder Andy Freer as an event presenting large-scale theatre, film, installations, workshops and unmissable parties.

The Snuff Puppets have been based in Footscray for 30 years, creating giant puppets which are a creation of visual art, sculpture, design, engineering, music, movement, performance and physical theatre.

There will be several events to choose from across the month, including shows, movie nights, installations and a party.

“If they come to see Swamp, audiences are going to see an amazing spectacle of the show,” Freer said.

A week after Swamp, Snuff Puppets is hosting a night of Vietnamese performance and film followed by a Cochlear installation, which Freer said plays on the idea of “listening and hearing trans and gender diverse people’s voices, it’s all about your listening and being heard.”

Events will be held at the Footscray Drill Hall from September 6.

Call to stick to Greenline

By Jennifer Pittorino

Advocacy group Better West is asking

Hobsons Bay council to follow through on its promise of a safe and connected cycling network through residential development areas from Altona North to Spotswood.

Better West said it is disappointed to see a separated bike path council had promoted as the ‘Greenline’ has not been included in the streetscape for Birmingham Street.

According to Better West, the plans for the Spotswood Yard development do not appear to include a separated bike path.

Better West said the connected bike

network for the development areas in Altona North, South Kingsville to Spotswood was planned and endorsed by council as part of the Precinct 15 development in 2018, and the ‘Greenline’ separated bike path was a council initiative announced in July, 2021.

Better West said in 2022, council ran a community consultation session on the different design options for the separated paths in these two streets.

Better West president Rosa McKenna said community consultation has not been considered.

“There are changes that could be made on Birmingham Street and McLister Street that

haven’t been made,” she said. “The plans I have been talking to the community about are really impossible now because those roads will be built without that infrastructure.

“We want council to immediately step in and take control of their planning and traffic arrangements to ensure that the people of SouthKingsvilleandSpotswoodgetwhatthey asked for,” she said.

“The community has given feedback on the Better Places initiative and asked that the ‘Greenline’ become a reality.

“At the moment there are so many physical barriers being put up by council that it will never be realised, or if it is realised, will have

to be dug up and redone again at great cost to ratepayers.”

A Hobsons Bay council spokesperson said “These sort of large scale, complex developments are long-term projects, so they take considerable time to be fully realised”.

“The permit for 31-69 McLister Street, Spotswood, was issued in 2017, before the GreenlinePlanwasadopted,whilethepermits for 571-589 Melbourne Road, Spotswood, were issued after being reviewed by an advisory committee convened by the minister for planning.

“Council has received the letter from Better West and will respond in due course.”

Nick Wilson with some of the ‘Swamp’ puppets. (Damjan Janevski) 354683_01

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Louis Joel Arts and Community Centre Altona

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Chemcare Wellness Pharmacy Altona

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Real Estate Agents Everywhere

Walking strategy a ‘good start’

By Jennifer Pittorino

A vision to create a more walkable Maribyrnong has been adopted by council.

The Maribyrnong Walking Strategy was adoptedbycouncilonAugust22andwillguide future capital works investments in walking infrastructure across the municipality. Thestrategywasinformedbymorethan800 postcards which were filled out by residents during community consultation on the draft strategy.

Ninety people also attended drop-in

information sessions about the plan.

The feedback conducted across two rounds of engagement showed walking is a crucial part of public transport use and is an essential aspect of the lives of many residents in Maribyrnong.

Councillor Simon Crawford said there is still work to be done to make the city more walkable.

“This is a really good start to set that solid foundation for how we move forward with improvingwalkabilityacrossthecity,”hesaid.

“It’s an exciting document and I’m

looking forward to taking the next steps in implementing it.”

Cr Bernadette Thomas said Maribyrnong is geographically suited for people walking.

“It’s great to see that we’ve scored so highly on walkability, but of course there’s always room for improvement,” she said.

“I think the strategy highlights the areas where we do need to improve but it’s also a document of opportunity and encouragement.”

Cr Jorge Jorquera said he wanted to focus on the challenges emerging from the strategy.

A fruitful project across the west

A project mapping fruit trees in the west has been launched by Slow Food Melbourne.

The Urban Harvest Project is run by the not-for-profit organisation which hosts markets in Spotswood and Footscray twice a month.

President Alison Peake said the project aims to help people geolocate fruit trees in their neighbourhood via a website.

“We hope this will educate people about what trees they have in the area,” she said.

“There will be the option to put different

information in about the tree.

“It might be whether the tree is independently owned, or if the fruit is just for the owner to be shared to the public.”

Ms Peake said this idea started because of the many migrant families who have established gardens and fruit gardens in the west.

“Therearealsoplansfortheimplementation of a series of workshops to teach people about the tree they have and what to do with the different seasonal produce,” she said.

“One example workshop might be focused onwhenlemonsareinseason,theparticipants might learn how to make lemonade or lemon chicken with their fresh produce.

“These workshops will hopefully get people who’ve got trees involved, either with doing things themselves or with sharing the fruit with people.

“The workshops will be taught by a variety of people, including chefs, farmers and other food specialists.”

Details: www.urbanharvestlocal.com.au

“Maybe we don’t talk enough about what could potentially be one of the biggest types of walking, which is shopping trips,” he said.

“The biggest challenge for us is we have the second biggest shopping centre in Melbourne, where we have people who live in our LGA, in addition to others visiting the shopping centre.

“Everyone needs to drive there , no one can walk there, but if we had more amenities and more facilities for shopping that are walkable we could encourage that.”

Creek odour identified

The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has identified the cause behind a strong smelling odour which affected Stony Creek last week.

EPA acting western metropolitan regional manager Arun Baskaran said EPA Victoria officers have identified a likely industrial source of a strong chemical odour affecting Stony Creek in Yarraville.

“Our priority is stopping the odour and lab tests show the pollutant in the creek is a mix of biphenyl and diphenyl ether, a waxy, brown substance used in industrial heat exchangers,” he said.

“It is a tricky pollutant that can solidify on cooler days giving the impression it has gone, only to become liquid on a warm day and begin causing odour again.

Mr Baskaran said Melbourne Water has been working to remove contaminated water from the creek.

“EPA is ensuring that clean-up and prevention measures are being implemented at the likely industrial source.

“The good news is that it is posing little hazard to people’s health and the suspected source has run out, so the clean-up should only take a few days.

“EPA’s investigation is continuing around Benbow Street and downstream as far as Thomas Street.

“Water testing shows normal conditions in the creek upstream of Francis Street.”

Alison Peake with her lemon tree promoting the new urban Harvest Project. (Damjan Janevski) 353198_01

Deposit scheme is a step closer

TOMRA Cleanaway has installed a reverse vending machine refund point in Altona Meadowsforthestategovernment’sContainer Deposit Scheme.

TOMRA Cleanaway chief executive James Dorney said locals will be able to conveniently drop off their eligible drink containers for recycling.

“Our machines are quick, convenient, and automated, and able to be seamlessly integrated into retail and community locations,” he said.

Located at Central Square Shopping Centre,

localswillbeabletocollectandrecycleeligible bottles, cartons and cans, and receive 10 cents per item in return when the scheme starts on November 1.

The machine will scan and verify each container as it’s deposited, and then provide options to the user to either receive the amount through a retail cash voucher, via digital transfer direct to a bank account, or for the amount to be sent as a donation to a nominated charity or community group.

“This is one of a number of machines to be

rolled out in this area and across the state over the coming months, and we’re looking for more community partners to host registered refund points – including shopping centres, retail outlets, clubs, parks, sporting grounds, and community centres,” he said.

TOMRA said refund point types include outdoor Reverse Vending Machines, smaller format standalone Reverse Vending Machines suitable for supermarkets and retail shops or clubs, Over the Counter refund points and bulk container refund points called Automated Depots.

Hospital will be surrounded by art

Artists in the west will have an opportunity to contribue to the new Footscray Hospital.

The Plenary Health consortium, which is delivering the new Footscray hospital, is partnering with Footscray Community Arts tocuratearangeofintegratedpublicartworks.

Footscray Community Arts producer Lucy Buxton said artists are required to apply for the new Footscray Hospital public art commission if they would like to be involved in the project.

“We have different opportunities for the art pieces, so there are different selection processes,” she said.

“Forsomeoftheartopportunities,itisopen

IN $50,000

tothepublicandthenforsomeoftheotherart projectswehavespecificcriteriawhichwewill selectbasedonwhowefeelwillbethebestfit.”

Ms Buxton said the ‘Journey to Footscray’ installation is set to be precast concrete placed in different locations around the hospital, this will be open to the public for anyone to apply.

The second piece will be artwork displayed in the new footbridge that will be used to connect Victoria University with the hospital.

Ms Buxton said the team at the arts centre, along with Plenary Health, have been working hard to figure out which types of art would be best suited for the hospital environment.

“We decided it will all be integrated into

SUPPORT

GRANTS

Environment MP Ingrid Stitt said, “Victoria’s container deposit scheme will be the most accessible and convenient in the country, making it easier than ever to recycle here in Hobsons Bay and across our state,” she said.

“CDS Vic will maximise the number of cans, bottles and cartons bring recycled into new products, while reducing the amount of litter in Victoria by up to half.”

Cleanaway said it will deliver CDS Vic in 28 local government areas across Melbourne.

Cleanaway pleads guilty

Cleanaway Pty Ltd has been convicted and fined $15,000 over missed deadlines and badly managed waste stockpiles at its Brooklyn facility. Environment Protection Authority (EPA) Victoria’s investigation began after officers responded to two small fires at the Old Geelong Road Waste and Recovery Centre in early 2021. EPAofficersfoundstockpilesofwood chips, scrap timber and mixed waste that were in breach of safety policies. Stockpiles were too high and too close together, the EPA said.

The company had also failed to meet EPA-imposed deadlines for fire risk and management plans.

In January 2021, approximately 65 firefighters responded to a fire at the waste management centre on Old Geelong Road. Later in the year in August, approximately 30 firefighters responded to another fire at the Brooklyn facility, which caused a smoke alert to be issued for a dozen suburbs.

Cleanaway Pty Ltd faced the Broadmeadows Magistrates Court on August 10 where it was fined $15,000.

the existing infrastructure to try to make the atmosphere very calm and healing for the patients,” she said.

Plenary Health chairperson Kelvyn Lavelle said the artworks need to tell the story of the patients and people visiting the hospital.

“Art is so important here because it can impact the way people can feel safe and comfortable, which is the overall mission,” he said.

“It needs to visually communicate and reflect back to back to local people.”

Jennifer Pittorino

The company was also ordered to pay the EPA an amount of $7,344.

EPA western metropolitan regional manager Stephen Lansdell said the case is a clear warning to businesses.

”It is critical how you store and stockpile waste. You must prevent any fire risks. All businesses must understand the importance of meeting EPA deadlines and notice requirements,” he said.

APPLYNOW

Plenary Health Matt Sneazwell, Western Health Mel Shackell, Footscray Community Arts Grace Ernestine. (Damjan Janevski) 354094_01

Calls grow for flood study funds

By Jennifer Pittorino

The Maribyrnong Community Recovery Committee (CRC) is calling on Fraser MP Daniel Mulino to help it secure federal funding to study the October 2022 Maribyrnong floods.

The committee met with Dr Mulino on Thursday, August 24, and submitted two requests for his assistamce.

CRC chair Madeleine Serle said the requests were greeted positively.

Ms Serle said the community perspective

is that the Maribyrnong floods have not been analysed by responsible bodies and statutory officers.

“The first point is to obtain funding from the Disaster Ready Fund for a project to build a data analytics study of the Maribyrnong floods, and to request for Emergency Victoria to conduct an all agency review under the state Eemergency management plan of the Maribyrnong floods. It was not done and has to be done,” she said.

“The second point requests that Dr Mulino endorse our application for a project to

Free kinder on the way

Next year Hobsons Bay families will be able to access free kinder sessions at Russell Court Kindergarten in Altona Meadows.

AdministratorMarieHinkysaidthecentre will offer free 15 hours a week sessions, in both three-and-four-year-old age groups.

“It’s being done with all kindergartens so we are excited for our centre to experience the sessions,” she said.

Ms Hinky said this year is the first time they have offered the program for two different age groups, to entice families to use their services.

“Enrolments in this area are low, the purpose of these free sessions is to get our name out there.”

Russel Court Kindergarten is home to a veggie patch, community pantry and community library, which the team are very proud of.

“We are very much community based, any one from the community can access these

facilities at any time.”

Ms Hinky said children who attend Russell Court will be able to enjoy multiple play areas including a sensory garden.

“One of our short term goals is to incorporate a sensory garden into our kindergarten program,” she said.

“We want it to be a space the kids can go to and play in nature.”

The staff have all been very excited that past students are now returning with their own kids.

“Most of our staff have been working here for a long time, now we are starting to see the next generation of kids coming through which is lovely to see,” she said.

“We have an open day coming up on October 28, we hope potential families will come see us and get to know our centre.”

Jennifer

investigate strategies for flood mitigation.”

Ms Serle said the study would help work out what processes are required to mitigate future floods.

The CRC appreciates that there was a study done following the 1974 floods, but Ms Serle said this study is now outdated.

“We want something brand new, a contemporary, smart analysis that brings the latest science and technology.

“It is really important to the CRC that the voice of the Indigenous custodians for the river and the environmental stewards is part

of developing strategies for mitigation to be absolutely side by side with whatever we do.”

Dr Mulino said the meeting was a great starting point which will need to be worked on with experts.

“There were some interesting ideas in the meeting and it’s a good starting point,” he said.

“I’m going to continue working with community representatives as we address these ideas.”

Pittorino Russell Court Kindergarten educator Shirin Hasseini with five-year-old Sofia. (Damjan Janevski)

Forensics help animal surveys

By Cade Lucas

DNA has long revolutionised police work, but it’s now doing the same to conservation, including the protection of platypuses in the Maribyrnong River.

“It works a little bit like a forensic database for criminals but for animals” Melbourne Water waterways and wetlands research manager Rhys Coleman said of environmental or EDNA which is extracted from the urine, faecesandmucusofplatypusandotheraquatic wildlife,

“We can just take a water sample, filter

it, extract DNA and then match up DNA sequencesfromthatsampletoknownanimals.”

As well as complementing data gathered through traditional animal surveys, Mr ColemansaidEDNAcanreplacethem,making life easier for both researchers and animals.

“It means we can survey for multiple animals at once and survey areas that were traditionally too hard because they were too deep to set nets or too fast flowing and we don’thavetocaptureandhandletheanimals,” he said.

Mr Coleman said the broad-scale surveillance offered by EDNA allowed

Help to hatch a dragon

Local artist and designer Jennifer Tran is calling on the Vietnamese community to take partinacollaborativeartprojectthatcelebrates traditional Vietnamese culture and stories.

Tran is working alongside Memetica Daniele Poidomani to make the giant Lac Long Quan dragon, an inflatable dragon lantern that will be paraded at the Brimbank Be Bold Festival in October.

Tran is seeking help from the community to contribute in the making and sewing of the dragon.

“This is really a project for the community to be a part of, one that is designed and made by the people,” she said.

The inflatable dragon is a nod to the Vietnamese folklore of 100 eggs where †he Dragon Lord, Lac Long Quan falls in love with Au Co, a fairy who gives birth to a sac containing 100 eggs from which 100 children were born, becoming the origin of the

Vietnamese people.

Tran said it is important to create art that celebrates Vietnamese culture and stories in public spaces.

“I want to celebrate our community and our folklore, especially for the next generation in our community. It is so important for them to learn about their identity,” she said.

“The dragon represents leadership. We’ve become a community that is defined in the western suburbs of Melbourne and I want to celebrate that.”

Details: Jennifer, 0413 273 957.

researchers to pinpoint which species lived where, the cornerstone of any animal conservation effort.

“We need to understand where animals occur in order to protect them. “

Along with EDNA, Mr Coleman pointed to ecological modelling as another new technology being used to defend against these duel threats.

‘The modelling is a new approach to waterway management” said Mr Coleman of the technique which was first applied during Melbourne Water’s “Healthy Waterways Strategy’ from 2018-2028.

Using existing data, ecological modelling predicts where species occur, how urban development and climate change might affect them and what protection measures would be most effective.

Combined, Mr Coleman said these new technologies would protect more than just Wyndham’s platypus population.

“Other species like the Australian Grayling which occurs in the lower Werribee River and growling grass frogs that occur in various wetlands and creeks ... these technologies could also underpin conservation strategies for those threatened species too.”

Students share skills

As part of a recent project between the Laverton Community Centre and Laverton College, a class of year 11 vocational major literacy students is learning to teach.

Over a five week period, the class visited the Laverton Community Hub to teach adult learners, basic language skills or how to use computers depending on the needs of the learner.

College principal Lisa Robinson said the program was a great success for both parties.

“Our 18 Laverton P-12 College students responded to the program extremely well,” she said.

“The eagerness to attend each session was evident in the faces, work ethics, and commitment to the program.”

Curriculum and pedagogy leading teacher LinhDinhsaidshereachedouttotheLaverton Community Education Centre to discuss the proposed idea.

“Thecentrewasdelightedbytheproposalasit notonlyallowedtheiradultlearnersassistance inliteracyanddigitalcommunicationbutalso created an opportunity for them to engage with youth despite the language barrier,” she said.

“The program has been such a great success, LCEC has expressed eagerness to not only continue this program but also explore other opportunities to engage with the college’s primary and secondary cohorts.”

Qua Lee and her student teacher Aprilia both had positive things to say following the completion of the program.

“I really enjoyed the opportunity to teach my partner Qua Lee how to use a computer and teach her English,” Aprilia said.

“She taught me so much on the computer and in my English. She is a very lovely girl. I thank her so much,” Qua Lee said.

Spice with a twist

Step into Indi-Kitch, a spice-inspired cafe and embark on a culinary `journey!

Indulge in delectable dishes spanning from Asia to the Middle East, all infused with the rich and vibrant flavours of aromatic spices.

Crafted with carefully selected ingredients, staff take pride in handcrafting their own curry powders and paste mixes. The menu boasts an array of offerings from chai with a delightful spice twist to wholesome and flavourful curries, soups, wraps, and baked goods. There’s truly something to satisfy every palate.

The menu showcases a range of offerings including nourishing plant-based protein plates brimming with lentils and fresh vegetables. Or you

can indulge in delights like Malaysian fried chicken, flavourful laksa, or a satisfying curry plate. Be tempted by an Asian inspired breakfast including chili scramble, congee with enoki fritters (gf, vegan), steaming bowls of rice noodles, soy egg and poached chicken (gf) or Korean fried chicken waffles. Not up to cooking, Indi-Kitch offers curry and noodle take home packs.

Beyond the exquisite cuisine, the cafe provides a warm and inviting ambiance, perfect for a quick snack, a leisurely meal, or grabbing some take-away treats. Your experience at this spice cafe is bound to be exceptional.

The Indi-Kitch team eagerly await the opportunity to serve you!

Iconic pub experience

The Steam Packet in Williamstown is an iconic pub dating back to 1863, which is loved by locals and visitors alike.

It boasts 16 beer taps showcasing both craft and mainstream beers, an extensive wine list including cellar items from venerated Barossa vineyards such as Rockfords and Rusden.

Food plays an important part in the overall offering, the Packet boasts a seasonal menu with pub classics and a fortnightly specials menu highlighting the best available produce. There are also

food specials during the week such as $19 parmas, steak and burger nights and kids eat free on Tuesdays (although some conditions apply).

The Packet has four-large screen TV’s showing a wide variety of sports, trivia night is Wednesdays and live music on Friday nights and Sunday afternoons, meaning you will never get bored.

Withallofthisonoffer,itslittlewonder the Packet is Williamstown’s favourite pub.

Burger nights are popular at the Packet. (Pictures: Supplied)

Kicking goals for charity

Williamstown Superules FC has donated $20,000 this year to several charities.

Social media manager Lorey Bentley said most of the money was raised at an annual club golf day at which the club picks different charities to donate to.

The club raised $4500 for the EJ Whitten foundation, $4500 for Outside the Locker Room and $4500 for My Room.

“All of the money raised for those charities was done through the golf day which we do on a regular basis,” she said.

“They play in groups and have typical golf days which they pay a membership for, on the day they have raffles and other fun things.”

Ms Bentley said the golf days provide a chance for bonding as well as the fundraising side of things.

“Some of our players have personal connections to a few of these charities and

we like to pick charities that focus on men’s mental health.

“The other way we raise money is through player sponsors, one woman at the club is sponsored by the Australian Skin Cancer Foundation so she wanted to do something for them.

“We did a dress up night at the club which raised $6000 for them.”

Ms Bentley said the club is very community based and enjoys giving back.

“We are just really proud because there are probably not many footy clubs that are raising so much money for other organisations, they tend to raise money for their own club.

“At our club we are all over 35 so a lot of us are really passionate about community and building on that community support.”

Jennifer Pittorino

Briefs

Williamstown jetty

Construction began last week on a complete upgrade of the Williamstown Jetty. A $500,000 partnership was secured for the refurbishment funded by the West Gate Neighbourhood Fund, scheduled for completion at the end of this year. The state government said the works will deliver structural improvements including new cross beams, decking, and handrails, along with a brand-new fish cleaning station for anglers returning with their catch. According to the state government, the jetty will become more wheelchair friendly, providing greater access for disabled persons and the elderly to use the facilities and undertake water related activities.

Reduce food waste

Food waste comes with a big cost, both for your bank account and for the planet. One way residents can reduce food going to waste and save time and money, is by planning to eat leftovers once a week and signing up to Sustainability Victoria’s ‘I Love Leftovers Challenge’. The last food waste challenge saved households at least $50 a month. Sign-up by Saturday, September 9. The challenge runs until Saturday, October 7.

FOR

Web: starweekly.com.au

Maribyrnong & Hobsons Bay Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Nick Cocchirealla, Emma Kirkham and Mark Cumming (Jacob Pattison)354902_01

Company fined after truck death

A transport company has been convicted and fined $320,000 after a truck driver was fatally struck by a B-double at a Yarraville depot in 2020.

Malec Holdings Pty Ltd was sentenced in the Melbourne County Court last week after pleading guilty to a single charge of failing to provide and maintain a system of work that was, so far as reasonably practicable, safe and without risks to health.

InOctober2020,twotruckdriversreturned

from their usual trips collecting log loads from New South Wales.

After unloading the logs, the drivers commencedtheprocessofcleaning,refuelling and parking their trucks.

The court heard that as one driver reversed his truck towards the parking lot in the cramped yard while the other followed closely on foot. As the driver moved forward and began a U-turn, the deceased stood on a pile of wood debris roughly 10 metres away.

Wishes do come true

The Altona Sports Club has raised $15,000 for the Make a Wish Foundation before it even hosts its main fundraising event.

The club’s Gavin Comport said the idea behind the fundraiser started from his love for his community.

“We’reacommunityclubandwedoalotfor the community,” he said.

“We try to do two major fundraising events each year, one for the Good Friday appeal and one for Make a Wish because both of those causes are a really good cause to donate to.”

On September 28, the Make a Wish fundraiser will be held at the sports club for a night of entertainment.

Mr Comport said all the bands which usuallyplayattheclubonaFridayorSaturday night will be playing on the night.

“They will all be playing on the night for free so all the money we would normally pay them goes straight to the foundation.

“They are all local bands who are really great supporters of the foundation and we’re always happy to give up their time and help

them do what they can do to make it a great night.

“We will have raffles, auctions, live music and John Deeks as a special guest and MC on the night.”

Mr Comport said choosing which organisation to donate to was a challenge.

“It was a tough one because there’s so many good organisations out there but we found many people who come to our fundraisers have close associations with Make a Wish.

“We wanted to make sure that we could find a way to give back to them.”

Mr Comport said the club has sold 300 tickets but with the amount of interest he could sell 150 more.

Jennifer Pittorino

As the truck continued its U-turn, the deceased slipped or tripped on the pile of wood debris and was run over by the axles of the rear trailer and he died at the scene.

A WorkSafe investigation found that it was reasonably practicable for Malec Holdings to have reduced the risk of injury and death by removing, as much as possible.

WorkSafe health and safety executive directorNarelleBeersaidtragediessuchasthis were far too common, with 15 people losing

their lives and another 372 seriously injured in vehicle-related incidents this year so far.

“This awful death could have easily been avoided if the right controls were in place,” she said.

“In any workplace where vehicles are present a traffic management plan is an essential measure to prevent loss of life or serious injury, and WorkSafe will not hesitate to prosecute any duty holder who fails to prepare and implement such a plan.”

354859_01

Domenic Colombini, Leo Ciliberti, Michael Zammit, Rosa Carrafa, John Deeks, Gavin Comport and Vince Bovezza (Jacob Pattison)

Yarraville Refinery marks 150

Sugar Australia has marked 150 years of the Yarraville Refinery with a plaque unveiling ceremony and morning tea.

The Sugar Australia Yarraville Team was joined for the celebration by Footscray MP Katie Hall and Maribyrnong mayor Sarah Carter on August 21.

The plaque was officially unveiled by four of Sugar Australia’s longest-serving team members Ray Clarke, Martin Speers, George Azar and Frank Kuczynski. NowownedandoperatedbySugarAustralia

the CSR Sugar brand, the heritage-listed Yarraville Refinery is Australia’s oldest sugar refinery.

Sugar Australia chief operating officer Paul Gregory said the day was full of reflection.

“Today presents an important opportunity to reflect on our rich history and acknowledge those who established this extraordinary site,” he said.

“We also recognise and express our gratitude to our current team members whose hardworkensureswecontinuetodeliversome

Award for job well done

Former Footscray mayor Fred Maddern has received a life membership of the National Apprentice Employment Network in recognition of more than 40 years being involved in helping young people find apprenticeship opportunities.

Long-time friend Simon Whatamore said this a remarkable achievement for an award that is tightly held.

“Fred has been a stalwart of Footscray’s civic life for many years, being the person whom Maddern Square is named after among many other achievements,” he said.

Mr Whatamore said Mr Maddern has an impressive list of career highlights including, in 1981 when Fred received an Order of the British Empire award for services to local government and the community.

Mr Maddern has been president of the Municipal Association of Victoria, president of the Australian Local Government Association, founding chair of Western Region Group Training and current chair of WPC Group and

NextGen Jobs. As well as executive director of the Australian Vietnamese Services Resource Centre, chair of Care Connect, president and Life Member of Footscray Park Bowling Club, mentorofVictoriaUniversity’sNewEnterprise Incentive Scheme (NEIS) Program; and director of Footscray Society for the Aged and the Footscray YMCA.

Mr Maddern said his success is attributable to the team he has always had around him.

“They have certainly brought me experience and knowledge, you can’t be successful unless youhavehadagoodteamaroundyou,”hesaid.

Over the years, Mr Maddern has enjoyed many successes and achievements, but his favourite has been helping young people find jobs. It has been a long journey, but it’s been a rewarding one, and we’ve created a lot of job opportunities.

“Seeing success in getting young people jobs and creating new initiatives and awareness and partnerships in the industry has been significant.“

of the worlds best refined sugar to customers around the country.”

Mr Gregory said it is also time to look forward to the next 150 years.

“As a business, we have a responsibility to ensure our actions today create a positive legacy for tomorrow, while always keeping safety top of mind.

“I’m very proud of our sustainability vision which provides a clear pathway to achieving a number of ambitious goals, including achieving carbon neutrality across the

business by 2050.”

Originally the Joshua Brothers’ Sugar Refineryin1873beforebecomingtheColonial Sugar Refinery (CSR) in 1887, the Yarraville site was one of the first riverside industries and the largest industry in the western region for most of the late 19th Century.

Beyond sugar, the refinery said it has had a significant impact on building the Yarraville community by bringing together workers through sport, music, and volunteering for the local fire brigade.

Frederick Maddern. (Damjan Janevski) 356187_04

Carrying on a legacy of support

By Cade Lucas

Like many retirees, Werribee’s Mary Brand keeps herself busy by volunteering.

Unlike many others though, the 68-year-old gets a special title to go with her unpaid work.

“I’m a volunteer with Melbourne Legacy called a legatee,” said Ms Brand of her role with organisation that cares for returned service people and their families.

“I provide social support and assistance to predominantly World War II, Korean and Vietnam widows in the western branch.”

In being a legatee, Ms Brand is performing the same role she and her family benefitted from when her late father struggled with the aftermath of serving in WWII.

“War caused the illness,” she said of the impact the conflict had on her father, a member of the army who was posted to the Middle East, Sri Lanka (then Ceylon) and Papua New Guinea.

“He was ill all his life post-war and Legacy supported my mother and five children as dad was often in hospital.”

That support ranged from fire wood being chucked over the back fence to boxes of food and clothing being delivered and even scholarships to help with their education.

Afterherfather’sdeathin1996,thesupport then continued for Ms Brand’s mother.

“After he passed away we moved mum to Melbourne and she joined a Legacy widows’ group in Melbourne and made wonderful friendships with the other widows,” she said.

The former library technician and information manager within the government and professional services sectors said it’s a sense of gratitude for all this help that motivates her to do the same.

“The support that we got when we were young and the support mum got when she was older, that’s whole reason why I volunteer for Legacy. To be able to give back.”

UpuntilSeptember2,givingbackwillinvolve Ms Brand and her fellow legatees asking other people to give during Legacy Week, which this

Little badge BIG IMPACT

year coincides with its centenary.

“It’s also the 100th year of Melbourne Legacy in October so we’re looking forward to especially generous community support this week,” said Ms Brand who will be selling badges alongside other legatees, widows and current ADF personnel.

“Legacy continues to support families of service personnel even if they haven’t been to war.

“It’s as relevant at today as it was in WWI when it started.”

Details: https://www.legacy.com.au/ legacy-week/

families of veterans, scan below to donate.

Werribee’s Mary Brand, who is a child of a war veteran, will be selling badges during Legacy Week. (Damjan Janevski) 355469_02

Dad documents 150 years of learning on flim

Williamstown Primary School parents Tony and Stina Dean come from a film making background, so when presented with the opportunity to make a documentary for the 150th celebration, they took it.

Tony has been working as a filmmaker as well as a director of photography and editing, when he said his wife put his hand up to volunteer his time to make the film for the school.

“Our daughter has been attending the school for three years and I feel like I am always so busy that I have felt kind of disconnected from the school,” he said.

“So it’s been a good opportunity to kind of deep dive and connect by speaking with past principals, teachers, alumni and kids, it’s just been really nice.”

Tony said he has 50 hours of footage to cut down into a 25-30 minute cut.

“We talk about the history of the school and local historian Brian Haynes and about the nuts and bolts kind of history.

“And then it’s largely about the culture of the school and how the culture has shifted over the years but in the same breath has remained pretty steadfast in their approach.”

Thedocumentaryismainlycentredaround

the Willy Kids philosophy, which Tony said is about shaping the kids.

“This philosophy is about shaping the kids into good humans as opposed to being strictly academic about the way that they go about their teaching.

“Teaching them to be good, friendly, how to be kind to each other and how to be respectful.”

The documentary will be hosted on the school’s YouTube channel later in the year following its completion.

Jennifer Pittorino

Parents unite to celebrate

Williamstown Primary School 150th celebration parents committee chair Nicole Paramanis said the six parents on the working team have embraced the legacy of the school in all its glory.

“We all discussed our vision of how we wanted to celebrate this special occasion so we looked back on the 140th celebration and other events in the archives to see what was done,” she said.

“There were some classic things like having the oldest and youngest Willy kid together and getting them together for a photo.

“Post COVID, the school had three things it wanted to achieve and that was to educate, celebrate, and relink with the community.”

School is ‘very special’

This year Williamstown Primary School staff, students and alumni are celebrating the school’s 150th year anniversary.

Principal Matthew Montebello said he is proud to have been with the school for 23 years, watching it change and grow.

“I started here in 2001, so I have been here foralongtime,priortobecomingtheprincipal lastyear,Iwastheassistantprincipal,”hesaid.

In 23 years, Mr Montebello said the education system itself has changed, but the Williamstown culture has stayed true.

“I think Williamstown itself is unique when it comes to the western suburbs.

“It’s very much like a country town but it is just across from the city. We have Bluestone buildings which are 145 years old and red

brick buildings that are 120 years old, our physical landscape has a lot of history in it.

“What hasn’t changed is the community, families seem to just grab on to the school culture which I think is very special.”

The implementation of the Willie Kids programme in 1994 is something Mr Montebello thinks has had a lasting impact on the school.

“That programme has helped encourage a particular culture here at the school, not only do we get multi-generational families, but we have staff that have been here for more than 30 years.

“My favourite things about the school are the kids and the families, they get me out of my office in the morning and afternoon and I

get to interact with everyone.

“I enjoy chatting with families and engaging with the people that make it such a special place, you feel constantly supported and feel that everybody wants to contribute in some positive way which is completely amazing.”

To celebrate this milestone event, the school has hosted many events throughout the year, including school celebrations, a gala, merchandise, as well as a compilation of a history book and documentary.

“The highlight was the whole school celebration where we had an extraordinary turnout from our community of more than 300 people, it was really special,” Mr Montebello said.

Nicole said the team was faced with a real amount of enthusiasm within the school community so planning events was easy.

“We had a kids birthday party for the kids of the school, where every child left with a party bag and other merch.

“We had a gala celebration for the grownups in the community past and present which was held on August 18.”

The committee also worked on side projects including the archive project, the book project, the documentary as well as graphic designing for merchandise and more.

“It has been outstanding how everybody’s wanted to get involved, it has been really special.”

Book charts the history of Williamstown PS

To celebrate Williamstown Primary School’s 150th anniversary, two parents from the school have partnered to join a committee of other parents who are curating the special celebrations.

Amber Cassidy and Zeena Lateef have joined the school’s leadership team led by parent Nic Paramanis.

“We started with the 125-year brochure and approached many of the original contributors to this, then built the 150-year book from here,” Amber said.

“We then reached out to current and past students and staff to interview and capture a broad and diverse range of stories, memories and sentiments of their time with Williamstown Primary School.

“Both Zeena and I conducted interviews at

the school, Williamstown Library, in people’s homes, over the phone and via email.”

Amber said the pair reached out to past students and teachers of the school as far as New Zealand and the UK.

“Wespentdaystrawlingthroughtheschool’s archives, researching local knowledge, and we worked closely with the school to capture current students’ voices and stories in the booklet.

The book is divided into six chapters, which Amber said covers history, principals reports, staff accounts, student accounts, 2023 and the 150 year celebrations.

“I have so many favourite parts of the book including the truth telling and reconciliation section, which sets the tone for the whole book which is one of connection to place,

time and community.

“The principals reports are great barbecue you can really feel the dedication and commitment from the leadership teams at the school over the years and the significant cultural and facilities changes they curated in partnership with the community around them.

“As well as the past students and staff accounts, which really paint a picture of what it was like to be a student or staff member throughout the decades of change in Williamstown.”

The school is taking expressions of interest for the book which will be available to purchase in September.

Amber Cassidy and Zeena Lateef. (Supplied)

Anthony and Stina Dean. (Damjan Janevski) 355998_01

Principal Matthew Montebello with fourth generation Williamstown students, sisters Elsie, 9, and Lola, 11. (Damjan Janevski) 354491_02

MY PLACE

Tell us a bit about you and what you do?

I am a mother of one teenager and one primary school child who are keeping me busy most of the days. But I enjoy working for the community tirelessly. I enjoy my weekend by organising/ planning activities for the vulnerable people of local council areas, empowering them to raise their voices to be heard, advocating for their rights , empowering women and girls to achieve their future and present goals in the field of study and work.

How did you know you wanted to be a volunteer?

SincechildhoodIwaspassionateabouttohelp others. When I came to Australia 16 years ago I found out that here are lots of different platforms which I can use it to help others and make some difference into someone else’s life.

Tell us about your work in the different organisations you volunteer with?

I provide my volunteer services to many organisations,fortheexampletheDukeStreet Community House, Maidstone Community Centre, ASRC & advocating at Uniting Asylum Seeker Welcome Centre in Brunswick . My work varies from time to time, somedays I spend my day in the kitchen to prepare food for the whole community, other days I organise a group to take out for recreational activities. I attend different workgroups to gather more knowledge to work efficiently , visit local families to address various issues like family violence, financial snd sometimes moral support.

What is your connection to Maribyrnong/ Hobsons Bay?

I have been living in Maribyrnong since 2017, living in Seddon. I moved from Hume to Maribyrnong and I absolutely love living here. I love the ethnicity of the area where I live in, especially in Footscray area. It’s a very vibrant and culturally diverse area. There are lots of organisations available around the area to help out the vulnerable people.

What, if anything, would you change about where you live?

I would love to find more affordable housing opportunities for vulnerable people in my area who are struggling with rental crisis and

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

EXECUTIVE

REQUIRED REQUIRED REQUIRED

homelessness. There is a lot need for secure housing. People are working hard to put food on their table, so many debts due to the bills and rental price inflation.

Where is your favourite local place to spend time?

My favourite place in the area is Footscray Park on Ballarat Road. Here we celebrate, walk, have a picnic and enjoy meditation and yoga during school holidays. We are very lucky that we are in the city of festivals and have Altona beach as well as Williamstown beaches close by.

Tell us something people would be surprised to know about you.

My mother has always been an inspirational person in my life who has raised me and my younger sister with this belief to never back down in our life, always be optimistic and work hard towards our goals.

Is there anything else you would like to say? Respect everyone regardless of their gender, age, religion, race and colour, because sometimes words of kindness are enough for people to smile.

Active volunteer Nazish Rafique tells Jennifer Pittorino about her work in the community and her connection to Maribyrnong

Nazish Rafique. (Damjan Janevski) 354822_04

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

Flower workshops

Want to learn how to do professional flower arrangements in a fun and relaxed program? Flowers, vase and snacks included. Joan Kirner House, 14 Thompson Street, Williamstown.

■ Liza, 0416 268 959

Seeking stories

Award-winning local author Dr Dominique Hes is writing a book on Newport Lakes, tracing its history, its impact and its contribution. The book will outline the story of its development, highlighting the role of consensus, courage, vision and working with nature to create a beautiful ecological and social place. Weaving in theories of biophilia, regenerative development and placemaking with local stories, it aims to provide inspiration for other communities looking at what they can do in their neighbourhoods. Locals are asked to come forward with any stories, photos, memories to be included in the book.

■ NPLbook22@gmail.com

Williamstown book sale

Friends of Williamstown and Newport Libraries hold a book sale every second Saturday of each month 9.30am to 12.30pm. The book sale is held in the Friends’ Room – entrance from deck on Ferguson Street. Cash only sales.

■ libraries.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au

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

Palliative volunteers needed Mercy Palliative Care is looking for volunteers to visit palliative care patients in their homes to offer social support.

■ 9313 5700 or MPCVolunteerCoordinators@mercy.com.au

Willin Wimmin choir

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

■ willin.wimmin@gmail.com

Altona

North Combined Probus

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

■ Lesley, 0414 481 442

Friendship group

Altona Day Voice Interest and Education of Women [VIEW] Club meets at 11am on

the third Wednesday of the month at Altona RSL. Funds raised for the Smith Family Learning for life program.

■ Janet, 9394 6522 or 0412 010 176

Diabetes support group

The Westgate Diabetes Support Group meets on the first Tuesday of every month at the Altona Bowling Club at 10am.

■ Elaine, 0415 030 996

AeroSpeakers Toastmasters Club

Would you like to develop confidence in communicating, competence with language and clarity in writing? AeroSpeakers

Toastmasters Club would like to invite any and all residents to join them on the first and third Thursday of every month to help develop public speaking, communication and leadership skills. The group meets at the Laverton Community Hub, 95-105 Railway Avenue, Laverton from 7-9.30pm.

■ Vimi Gaoneadry, 0411 530 944

Art workshops

The Louis Joel Arts & Community Centre presents MonArt. Workshops for people of all abilities facilitated by community art specialist Amanda Neville, Mondays 10am-11.30am. Cost: $5 casual fee each week.

■ admin@ljac.com.au, or 9398 2511

West Footscray Rotary

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

■ Mike, 0417 622 372

Cherry Lake Market

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

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

Musicians welcome

Do you play trumpet, flute or lower brass instruments? The Hobsons Bay City Band

is seeking musicians to join its community band. Rehearsals are held Mondays from 7.30pm at the Newport Lakes Primary School, Elizabeth Street, Newport.

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

Point Gellibrand Rotary Club

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

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

Altona Day View Club

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

■ Marion, 9394 6557

WOODCARVING WORKSHOP

The woodcarving workshop meets on Tuesdays at 9:30-noon at Hobsons Bay Men’s Shed, 280 Queens Street, Altona. All levels of ability in this ancient, international craft are welcome, women included, starter tools and timber available. ■ jah2802rot@gmail.com

Basic Home Maintenance course

Basic Home Maintenance meets at 7.15pm – 9.15pm at the Louis Joel Art & Community Centre, 5 Sargood Street

Altona for a 4 week hands on Basic Home Maintenance course.

Book through: https://www.trybooking. com/CJIDP

■ info@imstilllearning.org, or 0451 717 401

Drop in chess, cards and Scrabble

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

Alcoholics Anonymous – Williamstown

Regular meetings of Alcoholics Anonymous are held at St Andrew’s Church Hall, Williamstown, Wednesday at 7pm and Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Newport,

Thursday 6.30pm and Saturday 8.30am. All welcome including friends and family of people with drinking problems.

■ 1300 22 22 22, or www.aatimes.org.

au

Wednesday walking group

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

■ 9397 6168

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

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

Free walking group

Every Wednesday (during term dates) at 10.15am from Joan Kirner House, 14 Thompson Street, Williamstown.

■ Tahlia, 9397 6168

Free community morning tea

Every Wednesday at 11.00am in Joan Kirner House foyer, 14 Thompson Street, Williamstown.

■ Tahlia, 9397 6168

Seniors Outdoor Exercise Program

Seniors Outdoor Exercise Park Program is offering a free six week program sponsored by Williamstown Community and Education Centre, and facilitated by local exercise physiologist Dr Liz Cyarto. At Donald McLean Reserve Spotswood, starting Monday October 2.

■ Liz lizcyarto@gmail.com

Seabrook Community Centre (15 Truganina Ave Seabrook) is offering free tax return help with a Tax Help volunteer. This program is for people who have earned under $60,000 and are pay as you go employees

■ This program runs until mid October

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Staughton College school students Violet (front), Darcy Bethany Robin and Madison preparing for the school’s production ‘Alice’s Adventures Absolutely Anywhere’ (Damjan Janevski). 354992_01

PUZZLES

No. 148

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

ACROSS

1 Plant yielding gingili oil (6)

4 Area; zone (8)

9 Donkeys (5)

10 Heedless (9)

11 Garment (5)

12 Characterised by regular lines (9)

13 Useless person or thing (4,4)

15 Interior courtyard (6)

16 Discharge (6)

18 Moving out (from) (8)

23 Point to be judged upon (9)

24 “I don’t know” (colloq) (5)

26 Undervalue (9)

27 Japanese camera company (5)

28 A city and seaport of Scotland (8)

29 Attempts (6)

DOWN

1 Began (7)

2 Actress, – Sarandon (5)

3 Melodious (7)

5 Use to insert charge into muzzle-loading firearm (6)

6 Harmony (7)

7 Egyptian queen (9)

8 Old name of phone company (7)

10 Spurs on (5)

14 Accept reluctantly (9)

16 Scene of simple pleasure (7)

17 Island in the North Atlantic (7)

19 Skin disease (5)

20 Gnawing animals (7)

21 Sediment (7)

22 Conclusion (6)

25 Mobile phone company (5)

1 14

2 15

3 16

4 17

5 18

6 19

7 20

8 21

9 22

10 23

11 24

12 25

12 345678910111213

561274893

894631275

483756912 147362589

629143758 258917364

372598641

936485127

412853976

921438765

347965812

735691428 273586149

698247531 154329687

easy medium hard

586712394

869174253

12 words: Good

18 words: Very good

473281659

862735491

345196287

715829436 784962315

251679843 136457928

698543172 529318764

917824536

Today’s 3 LETTERS ADO ARE ASH BOA DDT DUD EAT EEL EGO FEZ GEE HOE ILL MAN MEW NEE NET ODE OPT PEA PEN RIG TOP 4 LETTERS AIDE ALSO DAFT DESK FAST GIGS GORY HASH MASS MESS OARS SEES SENT SPIT UFOS 5 LETTERS ADOBE

Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural words ending in “s”. I Y

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

QUICK QUIZ

ALERT ALLOT ALTOS ANGEL APING APRON ARENA AROMA ASSET AURAL DALLY DISCS EASEL EASES EERIE EMIRS ENDOW ENEMA FLAME GRIME GRINS

IDOLS MANGE MEMOS MERES MERIT MOODS OMEGA PANDA PAPAS PASTA PEEPS ROAMS SEATS SHAME SLEWS SNEAK SNOWS SPANS SPATS STEAM STEER

TIMES TWIST VERGE 6 LETTERS ASSENT ECZEMA OCTAVE STRAND 7 LETTERS BIRTHED DRAINED FILTERS SLASHED

STOPPER WINSOME 8 LETTERS COMPARES GONDOLAS STRIDDEN SUBLIMES 11 LETTERS HODGEPODGES STANDARDISE

01-09-23 Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

1 For which 1999 film did R.E.M. write TheGreatBeyond?

2 And which US entertainer is the film about?

3 True or false: bull sharks can tolerate both salt water and fresh water?

4 The Swiss food product Cenovis is similar to what Australian product?

5 What is the term for an infant cockroach?

6 What is the most abundant protein in the human body, constituting roughly 25 to 35 per cent?

7 Thessaloniki is the capital of which region of Greece?

8 Name the 2009 advice book for teens written by Kelly Osbourne (pictured).

9 What are the two primary ingredients of marzipan?

10 For which art movement is Émile Gallé known?

13 26 JZ ANSWERS: 1. Man on the Moon 2. Andy Kaufman 3. True 4. Vegemite 5. Nymph 6. Collagen 7. Macedonia 8. Fierce 9. Sugar and almond meal 10. Art Nouveau

No. 148

No. 148

No. 148

SPORTS QUIZ

1. Which women’s national football team is known as La Roja, meaning ‘The Red’?

2. What medal did Australian racewalker Jemima Montag win at the 2023 World Athletics Championships?

3. Which three-time AFL premiership coach was

4. By what nickname is England’s women’s national soccer team known?

5. Tevita Pangai Junior has announced plans to retire from the NRL and pursue a career in which sport?

6. And which NRL club does he currently play for?

Blågult, the nickname of Sweden’s women’s national soccer team, refers to which two colours?

Professional rugby union player Owen Farrell is captain of which national team?

Australian Rohan Browning made the semifinals of which event at the 2023 World Athletics Championships?

10. American basketball executive Daryl Morey is president of basketball operations for which NBA team?

11. When was the last time the reigning premiers didn’t make AFL finals the following year?

12. The Braves and the Falcons are the MLB and NFL teams respectively played out of which US city?

13. How many sports has Ellyse Perry played for Australia in?

14. Which team won the women’s soccer World Cup in 2019?

15. And who did they beat?

16. In what year did Andy Murray win his first grand slam title?

17. How many AFL players have played 400 games or more?

18. A birdie is how many strokes under par in golf?

19. What is the nickname of the Australian women’s basketball team?

20. Hollywood actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney own which soccer club?

21. Olga Carmona is the captain of which women’s national soccer team?

22.Which country will host the Men’s ICC One Day World Cup in October?

23. The 2023 comedy drama Champions is about a team that plays which sport?

24. Dyson Daniels plays for which NBA team?

25. Which AFLW team plays home matches at Mineral Resources Park?

26. Which manufacturer replaced Holden in the 2023 Supercars Championship?

27. What is the international netball competition between Australia and New Zealand known as?

28. What weight division does boxer Tim Tszyu compete in?

29. Which Australian test batsman recently joined Fox Cricket’s commentary team?

30.How many gold medals in total has Australia won at Winter Olympic Games?

Amendment C181mari

Maribyrnong Planning Scheme. The Amendment came into operation on August 17 2023, which is the date notice was published in the Victoria Government Gazette.

The Amendment removes redundant interim Heritage Overlay controls from eight precincts in West Footscray, Footscray and Maidstone.

A copy of the Amendment can be inspected, free of charge, at the

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

Drive away from the mainstream

By Alistair Kennedy, Marque Motoring

Renault Arkana is a stylish mid-sized SUV that arrived here in 2021 effectively replacing the short-lived Kadjar in Renault’s three-model SUV range. It sits between the compact Captur and the family-sized Koleos.

It’s slightly larger than Kadjar in all exterior dimensions but with almost identical engine outputs.

Renault Arkana comes in three variants: Zen, Intens and R.S. Line. There’s a single drivetrain combining a 1.3-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine with seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and front-wheel drive.

Styling

Arkana joins an increasing trend in the evolutions of SUVs with a smoother sloping rear profile that emphasises styling rather than all-road performance. With this in mind Renault is marketing Arkana as an SUV Coupe.

Combining the two different components can be challenging but the Renault designers have managed to do it and have put together a very attractive vehicle. One feature is a high (200 mm) ground clearance which lifts the Arkana without making it look too gawky.

Arkana R.S. Line adds comes with a specific front bumper design with an F1-inspired aero blade, 18-inch diamond-cut alloys, , R.S. Line badging, gun metal grey door trims, and front and rear skid plates.

LED lighting is used extensively including the headlights; daytime running lights; tail lights and turn indicators.

A small powered sunroof is optional on the Intens and standard on the R.S Line. There are seven colour options, only Blue is standard the others are cost options.

Interior

Our test vehicle was the Arkana Intens with the optional sunroof which, together with the coupe-like lines, meant that entry proved a bit awkward. The driver’s seat has power adjustment but with a limited height range which, even at its lowest level, meant that my head grazed against the roof.

The R.S. Line has carbon-look interior trim, alloy sport pedals, a perforated leather steeringwheelwithR.S.Linebadging,redand grey contrast stitching, and R.S. badging.

It has a fully digital 10.25-inch instrument cluster, a frameless auto-dimming rear-view mirror, and a sunroof.

Rear space is excellent with surprisingly good headroom given the sloping roof and, courtesy of the 2720 mm wheelbase, plenty of kneeroom.

There’s leather and suede upholstery in the Intens and R.S. Line as well as electrically adjustable, heated and ventilated seats for both driver and front passenger.

ThecentrepieceoftheinterioroftheIntensis its9.3-inchportraitshapedtouchscreenwhich not only displays the normal infotainment features but also, through its multi-sense system, controls the pre-set Eco and Sport drive modes to adjust the powertrain and steering.

There’s also a MySense feature which allows the driver to customise these settings to suit their own individual preferences.

Directly below the touchscreen are a series of small buttons including quick access to the multi-sense system, front seat heating / cooling and door locking.

Sensibly, the air conditioning is controlled by three large knobs that are easy to reach and simple to operate. Unfortunately, the same can’t be said for the audio volume controls which require either a series of taps on small tabs at the bottom of the touchscreen or on small buttons on a steering column stalk behind the steering wheel.

There’s a good-sized space at the centre of the front console for storing smartphones and, in the R.S., includes a wireless charging

pad.TherearetwoadjacentUSBportsdirectly above it as well as AUX and 12-volt power sockets.

A small storage box sits below a slide-out armrest in the centre console.

The boot features a split-level floor that can take up to 485 litres at its lower level. With the 60/40 rear seatbacks folded that can be expanded to 1268 litres. A space-saver spare wheel sits beneath the lower floor setting.

Engine / transmission

Arkana has a 1.3-litre, four-cylinder turbo-petrol with outputs of 115 kW at 5500 rpm, and 262 Nm at 2250rpm. It drives the front wheels through a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic.

Safety

Renault Arkana comes with a five-star ANCAP safety rating with a high level of features in all variants including six airbags; electronic stability control; adaptive cruise control with speed limiter; blind spot warning; autonomous emergency braking including pedestrian and cyclist detection; lane departure warning and lane keep assist; traffic sign recognition; front, rear and side parking sensors; rear view camera; automatic headlights and windscreen wipers; ISOFIX child seat anchorage points; and tyre pressure monitoring.

The Intens and R.S.Line add rear cross traffic alert and speed limit alert.

Renault’s Easy Park Assist is standard in all models and uses a combination of sensors and rear-mounted camera for hands-free parking. Infotainment

Arkana Zen: $37,500

Arkana Intens: $41,000

Arkana R.S.: $45,000

SPECIFICATIONS

Renault Arkana Intens 1.3-litre turbo-petrol

five-door hatchback

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

ArkanausestheRenaultEasyLinkmultimedia system through a 7.0-inch landscape touchscreen in the Zen and a 9.3-inch portrait touchscreen in the Intens and R.S.Line.

Likewise, the higher-spec variants get a 7.0-inch driver’s digital instrument cluster with the option of a full-digital 10.25-inch screen while the Zen has a 4.2-inch display.

Satellite navigation isn’t offered in the Zen but is standard in the Intens and R.S.Line.

All variants get a six-speaker Arkamys AuditoriumSoundsystem,AppleCarPlayand Android Auto connectivity.

Driving Arkana uses the Renault credit card style key and includes ‘walk-away’ automatic door locking.

Although the rear window is large, its shape together with the broad C pillars do limit side and rear visibility quite significantly.

Arkana is quite sluggish off the mark with

little low-down torque and a jerky dual-clutch transmission. Switching to Sport mode makes a big difference and, apart from motorway cruising, we spent most of our time with it switched on. There is a bit of torque steer to catch the unwary.

Steeringissharpandresponsivewiththere’s only minimal body roll through corners although it is more SUV than coupe in that regard.

Ride provides a nice balance between firmness and comfort.

The extra ground clearance infers off-road capability, however that’s offset by the absence of an all-wheel drive option.

Fuel consumption is listed at 6.0 litres per 100 kilometres, we averaged a fairly good 7.2 L/100 km.

Summing up

Renault Arkana is a classy looking, well-equipped and competent vehicle that’s suretoappealtoloversofFrenchmarquesand anyone else looking for something away from the mainstream.

In terms of pricing, Arkana can be assessed as either a budget-priced Euro premium SUV-CoupecompetitoralaAudiQ3Sportback and BMW X2 or as a fairly expensive offering inthecongestedandhighly-competitivesmall SUV segment. The buying public will make that decision.

Renault Arkana comes with a five-year unlimited kilometre warranty, five years of capped price services with an impressive 30,000km service interval and five years roadsideassistancewhentheservicesaredone by an official Renault dealer.

Renault Arkana is a classy looking SUV Coupe crossover.

(Pictures: Supplied)

United sign an exciting goal scorer

Western United has added Keiwa Hieda to its A-League Women roster for the 2023-24 season, with the Japanese winger set to become one of the most exciting players in the competition.

Joining on a scholarship contract, Hieda hasshownhersupremequalityafterbreaking out in Japan, moving to Calder United in National Premier League Women’s Victoria having top scored in VPLW last season at Preston Lions.

The 23-year-old has carried that form into the top division with Calder, scoring nine goals heading in the regular season to help guide the team into the finals.

Her dominance also continued in the Nike F.C. Cup where she won the Teresa Deas Medal for the player of the match as Calder defeated FC Bulleen Lions in the final.

Making her first venture into professional football, Hieda is set to bring an abundance of enthusiasm and positivity into the squad.

“I’m really excited to play for Western

United. Speed and dribbling is my strong points and I will take advantage of my strengths. I can’t wait to play for Western United,” she said.

“I learned a lot of tactics from the coaches at Calder, and it’s really reassuring to be able to play with them again.”

“I know a lot of teammates and understand their playing style, so I want to communicate with them more and win the title together.”

WesternUnitedcoachMarkTorcasohailed the continued impact of the Western-Calder United partnership and said Hieda will be like no other player in the competition.

“Keiwa is in that rare breed of player that plays every game like it’s her first while playing every game like it’s her last at the same time,” he said.

“She has such an appetite and joy for the game, always playing with a smile on her face and that is represented in the way she plays on the pitch. Daring, cheeky, brilliant skill and an outstanding desire to work for the team off the ball.

“We identified her as a big talent to

bring into the Calder system and see if we could bring her in at Western, and she has shown she is more than at the level. Our fans are in for a treat with Keiwa, she is so unique and will be a joy to watch for us this season.”

While her focus will be fully on the upcoming NPLW Finals campaign with Calder, Hieda will be gearing up to start pre-season with the remainder of the squad in early September.

Seagulls ready to peak

By Tara Murray

After slowly building into the Victorian Football League season, Williamstown is ready to peak at the right time according to forward Joel Ottavi.

The Seagulls finished the regular season in fifth, the Seagulls had the weekend off with the wildcard round play off.

Having missed finals last season, Ottavi said it was nice to be back playing footy at this time of the year.

“It’s really good,” he said. “It has been really positive how we have built.

“We’ve built ourselves up over the season and I think we started to get a few things right towards the end of the season when you want to get things right.

“It is really exciting to see what we can do come finals.”

Like the group, Ottavi said he felt he had got better as the season had progressed. He finished the regular season with 29 goals for the season, the most for the club.

“I was slow to get off to start with,” he said.

“I think I built into it as we had a very new group compared to last year. I suppose just gelling with the new guys and once all on

the same page.

“We helped each other get our form up which has been good.”

The Seagulls looked to add some more experience to the group after last season’s disappointment.

The likes of Oscar McDonald, Harry Jones, Marty Hore joined the club and league games record holder Ben Jolley came back to a place he calls home.

Ottavi said it was massive those guys had brought to the club, not just on field, but also off field.

“The club did really well with the recruiting side of things,” he said. “When those boys turned up during preseason it was really exciting.

“It brought a nice breath of fresh air to the pre-season.

“Leadership, that is the biggest thing. They bring on field greatness but the leadership that they provide to what is a really young core still, it’s invaluable, they’ve been unreal with their leadership.

Having joined the Seagulls in 2019, Ottavi has become a key part of the playing group.

Each year he has had more impact.

“I’ve been really fortunate with the

opportunity that Willy gave me back then and I’m more than happy to call Willy home,” he said.

“I really enjoy my time playing at the level and playing for Willy.”

Ottavi said the AFL dream was always still there but knows that he is getting older.

He said he’s more than happy playing at Williamstown and will continue to play his role and hopefully continue to play good football.

Ottavi said it was a strange situation having had the week off before finals, but said it was the perfect opportunity to freshen up the group ahead of a big finals series.

The Seagulls will face Collingwood in an elimination final on Saturday.

He said they were looking forward to a good finals series.

“We’ll put our best foot forward each week and back in the coaches. They put a brand to us they brought in at the start of the year and we think it can stand up in finals.

“We’ll see how we can go and see how far we can take it.”

Sports shorts

VFL

Footscray will face Casey in an elimination final in the Victorian Football League. Casey are coming off a massive 101 point win against North Melbourne in the VFL’s wildcard round. The match will take place at Box Hill City Oval at 12pm on Saturday. Williamstown will host Collingwood on Saturday at 3pm. The Pies are coming off a 75 point win against Richmond.

Coates Talent League

Western Jets took on Greater Western Victoria Rebels to finish their home and away campaign of the Coates Talent League boys competition . The Jets were outplayed all day by the Rebels losing 13.16 (94)-4.14 (38). Lachie Mcarthur, Massimo Raso, Logan Morris were amongst the Jets best. The Jets will now take on Sandringham Dragons on Saturday afternoon in the first final.

Coates Talent League

Western Jets celebrated a good win over Greater Western Victoria Rebels to give them their third win of the Coates Talent League girls season. The Jets were just two point winners on Saturday, winning 3.5 (23)-3.7 (25). Sierra Grieves, Kiera Whiley, Zoe Attard were the Jets three best players. The Jets will play Calder Cannons in Williamstown on Saturday morning to wrap up their home and away season.

AFL

North Melbourne’s Eddie Ford has topped off his first win at AFL level with the AFL Rising Star nomination for round 24. Ford played his junior football with Point Cook before crossing to the Yarraville Seddon Eagles in the Western Region Football League. The versatile forward arrived at Arden St from the Western Jets via pick 56 in 2020 AFL Draft. He has since played 22 games, including 14 this season rotating through the forward line and the wing. The 21-year-old was instrumental in the Roos’ 35-point win over the Gold Coast Suns at Blundstone Arena, with three goals, 19 disposals and eight marks.t

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Keiwa Hieda. (Jack Dilks/Football Victoria) 356913_01

Williamstown is confident of a strong finals appearance. (Jacob Pattison) 338076_14

Wolves through to a third straight grand final

Spotswood is through to its third straight Western Region Football League women’s grand final after beating Werribee Centrals on the weekend.

The Centurions started the division 1 semi final with a bang, scoring their first goal within the first two minutes of the clash.

The Wolves rallied through back to back goals to Molly Althouse to put them up at quarter time.

The sides went goal for goal in the second term, with the Wolves maintaining a six point lead at the main break.

The Wolves began to kick away in the third getting up by three goals at the three quarter time break. The Centurions hit back again in the last, with two goals but it was not enough with the Wolves taking a 7.5 (47)-5.5 (35) win.

Althouse was named as the Wolves best on ground with her two majors.

Wolves co-coach Ian Allan said his side has been slowly building throughout the year and was thrilled to be into another grand final.

“Thegirlshavelearntalotabouteachother,” he said.

“It’s got to a point where they feel really comfortablewithwheretheirfootyisheading.

“It was a good game yesterday not only just for us, but it was a really good standard of footy to be honest.

“Itwaspleasingtoseethegirlsreallycontrol the game as well, which led us to winning the game. It was a really good day for us.”

With a week off now to reset, rest and prepare for the big dance Allan said it’s about

Magpies into big dance

By Harper Sercombe

Parkside is through to the Western Region Football League division 2 grand final. Thefinalsserieskickedoffwithabangasthe Magpies took on Albion at Hansen Reserve in a semi final on Saturday.

Albion booted the first goal of the game beforeParksidestartedtogetontopandprove why it has been the best side all year.

The Magpies dominated the second quarter but were unable to translate it onto the scoreboard, taking just a 15 point lead into half time.

In the third quarter the Cats came out strong and kicked a couple of goals to swing the momentum in their favour including a 50 metre set-shot bomb from Tyler Parkinson, to cut the lead to 11 at the break.

In the last the Magpies got back on top of the game and dominated the territory battle, thanks to best-on-ground, Hudson Barrett’s efforts playing as a spare behind the ball.

Barrett was enormous all day, playing the wing role tirelessly playing a crucial role

in between the arcs. He also showed his endurance capabilities to snag a goal against the run of play late in the third term and take big defensive pack marks in the last to help keep the game in the Magpies favour.

Barrett and veteran defender Shaun Campbell were clear standouts in the 7.4 (46)-4.6 (30) win.

“[Barrett] was super… players of that level are made for stages like this, and good players find a way to put a stamp on the game and he definitely did that today,” coach Chris Muratore said.

It was a tough, ferocious contest from the outset which Muratore said he was expecting and prepared for, especially with the dimensions of ground.

“It was a good, hard fought win,” he said.

“I think there will be a few sore bodies from this game.

“It’s a funny sized ground… crash, bang, a lot of packs… there were a lot of stoppages, it definitely was a physical game of footy.

“We knew Albion were going to come [at us], we play the same sort of brand, contested,

big forwards, big backs, it was a battle.

“Prelims are always going to be hard to win, it was ugly, but I’ll take an ugly win any day of the week.”

After coming runners-up in 2023, Muratore said he and his team is still working on maintaining their composure both on and off the field as they approach a second straight grand final.

Last year the Magpies had to make the grand final the hard way.

“As a coach you have to keep a level head because you can make one mistake, or get caught up in watching the game… so you’ve got to keep a real focus the whole way through,” he said.

“When you look up and see the 20 minute mark and we’re a couple of goals up you start to get nervous a little bit.

“But you’ve just got to stay calm, that’s something I’m trying to work on every week, just to stay calm and stay in the moment.”

The Magpies will face the winner of Newport and Albion in the big dance.

maintaining focus on what they want to achieve.

The club’s division 2 women’s side will still be in action in the preliminary final.

“We’re keeping a level head with it,” he said.

“But it’s pleasing that we’ve been rewarded with all our hard work.

“The next two weeks is going to give us an opportunity to really just prepare ourselves and focus.”

With Caroline Springs taking on the Centurions in a preliminary final this week, Allan said he will just be thinking about what his side can do, not so much what the opposition will bring to them.

Especially after last year’s disappointment of a grand final loss to Caroline Springs.

“The girls are enjoying the moment right now, but there’s still a little bit of work to go ahead,” he said.

“Our key focus will be just working on what we’re about as a team.

“We know what it’s going to take to win that big game, so we’re looking forward to it.”

Harper Sercombe

Roosters win, set to face the Wolves

West Footscray is one step closer to the Western Region Football League division 2 women’s grand final after a win in the opening round of finals.

Finals for the women’s competition kicked off on the weekend with the Roosters progressing through to the second week of finals after beating Laverton at Laverton Oval on Sunday.

The Roosters were on top all day being up by 13 points at half time.

However, the game began to break open in the second half, with the Roosters booting three goals to the Magpies two in the third term. The Roosters held on in the last, giving them the 8.8 (56)-4.6 (30) win.

Jemma Hay booted four goals for the Roosters, Krystyn Raymundo and Emily Gillespie both had two. Kathleen Gannon was named as the Roosters best.

For the Magpies, Rosa Deverell was amongst their best with two goals while Keshena Kinkaid had one. The other major came from the team’s best on ground, Hayley O’Reilly.

TheRoosterswillnowfaceSpotswood in a preliminary final on Sunday, while the Magpies season has come to an end.

In the other final, the Wolves division 2 team lost to Wyndhamvale in a dramatic extra time finish.

The Wolves were up by seven points at half time in what was a low scoring affair, much like the other game the match began to open up after the break. With the Falcons taking a seven point lead into three quarter time.

The scores were tied at the full time siren, with the Falcons being able to get a couple of crucial game winning behinds in the extra time period to see themselves into the grand final.

The Wolves’ Tamsyn Kirk kicked four in the 5.8 (38)-5.6 (36) loss.

Finishing top two has given the Wolves an extra chance in the finals series, when they take on the Roosters. The Falcons are through to the grand final.

Harper Sercombe

Kerrie Clarke (Ljubica Vrankovic) 356232_43

Shaun Campbell (Jacob Pattison)348749_02

Altona Magic’s season comes to a sudden close

Altona Magic’s first finals campaign in the National Premier League has come to an end at the first hurdle.

The Magic suffered a 5-0 defeat to reigning premiers Oakleigh Cannons on Friday night.

The game was over quickly with Oakleigh being 4-0 up after just 26 minutes. The first three goals of the game came to Alex Salmon, before he added another goal in the 55th minute to put his side up 5-0.

To make matters worse, Magic was down to 10 men from the 77th minute mark following a red card to Daniel Duzel.

Although the finals series didn’t pan out the way coach John Markovvski would have dreamt he is staying positive and is optimistic about the clubs future.

“The pressure of finals and the naivety of youth, sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn’t,” he said.

“We can build on it. The boys have done really well, making finals with a bunch of kids is a positive and now we’ve just got to build on it.

“We’ve had a good year, and hopefully it’s a good learning curve.”

With about 14 players turning over in the off season, the year was always going to be a learning experience after finishing in 10th last year.

The club also had the golden boot winner with Jonas Markovski scoring 19 goals for the season.

“We’ve got to build from what we’ve got at the moment,” he said. “Try and strengthen up a little bit where we need it.

“When you’re playing against teams like Oakleigh that have a lot of experience. They’ve probably got 20 players that are experienced, I don’t think any of our boys have actually

played a game of finals.”

Markovski said some more squad turnover can be expected in the off season to not only keep his side in finals but to take that crucial next step.

“You’re always looking to improve the team, we’ll be definitely looking at improving what we need,” he said.

“We’ll look at what we need to strengthen theplanfornextyeartomovetothenextlevel.

“The way things panned out this year, we had a lot of injuries in our defence, so maybe we’ll look in that area.

“We’lljustseehowitpansoutwhenwestart training in pre season.”

Oakleigh play South Melbourne on Friday night to see them into the grand final, while Melbourne Knights face Avondale on Saturday in the other semi final.

Harper Sercombe

Seagulls keep season alive

Altona kept its season alive in the Hockey Victoria men’s premier league with victory on Saturday against the KBH Brumbies.

Facing off in an elimination final, the Seagulls, who finished sixth, faced the Brumbies who finished one spot below them.

Seagulls president Alex Tyrrell said it was a good game from their perspective. “Weplayedwell,”hesaid.“Wewentin with confidence.

“It was 2-1 and we were definitely on top for most of the game.

“KBH got a goal back late. We had a few players out and they had a few out as well in the end.”

Young star Cooper Burns scored both of Altona’s goals.

It was a big weekend for the Seagulls with their reserves getting an upset win against Footscray, 3-2.

The Seagulls had finished the regular season in eighth spot, while Footscray had finished in fifth.

Both sides will play Doncaster in knockout semi finals this weekend.

Tyrrell said they would hopefully get Heath McDonald back this week from injury, but said Connor Otterbach was still a couple of weeks off.

Vikings coach calls time

By Harper Sercombe

It’s been a wild ride for Altona and its coach Corey McCall in the Western Region Football League, but it’s all about to come to a close.

The premiership winning coach said he will be stepping down at season’s end, whenever that may be.

McCallstartedhisjourneywiththeVikings at the end of 2019, with his first season at the helm set to be 2020. After that year and 2021 were impacted by COVID, McCall’s first full season in 2022 broke a 10 year premiership drought for the club.

Now the club sits in a great position, with a young list and its season still alive, sitting in third position on the eve of another finals series.

However, for McCall and the club, the time is right for a new voice and direction as both parties sit content with the decision.

“The club and myself have been really open and honest about transitioning,” McCall said.

“I always had on my mind that 2024 was probablytheseasonwhereIstoppedcoaching.

“So we’ve planned and discussed the

strategy for the football club going forward, and what’s in the best interest of Altona.

“It was a really good discussion and transition and even our recruiting strategy was based around what’s best for Altona in 2024 and beyond.

“It’s time for me to go back to my family.”

While the transition has been amicable, the playing group was kept out of the know, to keep them determined and focused on the potential of back-to-back premierships.

After the Vikings win against Spotswood in round 16, McCall said he thought the timing was right to let them know this year would be his last.

“They weren’t caught off guard, they know how passionate I am, they know I love the Altona Football Club,” he said.

“I’m forever grateful for them giving me an opportunity to coach division 1 football.”

After winning the flag McCall said over half of the Vikings premiership winning side was turned over due to retirements or lures from rival clubs. This led to a new look for the 2023 season including a fresh leadership group, and a focus on playing and recruiting youth

at the club.

“Every year provides different challenges with coaching and this one has been different… everything changed,” he said.

“I said to the club, maybe the time’s right for someone to come in here now and build on this.

“We’reallworkingtogetherononecommon goal, what’s best for Altona… leaving Altona in the best shape going forward.”

However, with one game remaining in the regular season before finals kicks off there is still plenty left to play and coach for.

“We’ve just got to keep that momentum that we’ve been building,” McCall said.

“We’ve had our ups and downs with injuries andavailabilities,butwe’vebeenplayingsome really good footy.”

McCall said emotions may get the best of him when he knows it’s over, for now he is content and steadfast on delivering back to back premierships for the club he loves.

“It’s not something that I’ll just walk away from and you won’t see me again, throughout 2024 I’ll pop my head down to watch some games and have a beer where I can,” he said.

“Our two best players are Cooper, who scored the goals and Connor,” he said. “Connor hurt his hamstring in an Australian camp and did it quite well.

“He’s out for 10 weeks total. He’s back running and the main aim for him is the state competition, Hockey One and representing HC Melbourne.

“If we go deep into finals, he has a chance to play.”

Burns has also been named in the HC Melbourne squad along with Nye Roberts.

Carly James has been named in the women’s squad. The women’s team finished the season in ninth spot, one spot outside finals, which Tyrrell said was a really good achievement.

The aim had been to avoid relegation with the competition being reshaped after this season.

Meanwhile, Footscray will have to win through to the grand final the hard way after losing its qualifying final.

Last year’s runners up faced minor premiers Camberwell, losing 3-1. Captain Rosario Villagra was the goal scorer for the Bulldogs.

The Bulldogs will now face Waverley.

Tara Murray

Jonas Markovski (Ljubica Vrankovic) 353162_23

Corey McCall (right) will step down at the end of the season.(Joe Mastroianni). 299309_04

Torcaso set to lead Philippines women’s team

Western United women’s head coach Mark Torcaso has agreed a deal to become the next head coach of the Philippines women’s national team.

On the back of the Philippines’ debut in the FIFA Women’s World Cup, Torcaso will hope to continue building the nation’s growing reputation in women’s soccer.

Torcaso said the chance to manage on the international stage was impossible to give up, admitting his anticipation to get started.

“Itistrulyanhonourtotakeupthisposition with the Philippines. It is a dream come true to be taking on an international coaching opportunity,” he said.

“This opportunity is one that we couldn’t pass up and we are incredibly grateful for the support of everyone at Western United in making this work.

“The Philippines team has been a great

football story over the last year and it is really exciting to be able to work with this group. I can’t wait to get started and bring more success to this nation.”

Torcaso will bring A-League Men’s legend and Western United under-23’s assistant coach Andrew Durante along with him as an assistant coach, with both men remaining in their respective roles at Western United.

Durante acknowledged what a significant opportunity this was in his young coaching career.

“Everyone at the club has shown incredible support for us and we are both extremely excited to bring all of our commitment into both of our roles,” he said.

“This is a huge step in my coaching journey to be able to help coach a national team and I simply can’t wait to begin, to learn and developandtakeoneverynewexperiencethat comes.”

Western United football general manager Mal Impiombato hailed this as a monumental moment for the club to have Torcaso and Durante on the world stage.

“We are immensely proud as a football club that Mark and Andrew have been given this opportunity on the back of their hard work and excellence in their positions,” he said.

Guziak aims for the sky

By Peter Howe

Amelie Guziak has a voracious appetite for competition and the need to test herself against the best in the world.

The 16-year-old reckons she was born on a squash court.

“I have never played another sport,” she said. “I was taken to watch my dad play when I was three or four and fell in love with it right then.

“I have been on the court ever since. I started playing in competitions when I was 10 years old.”

Guziak was identified by Squash Australia early in her career and given a scholarship to the Victorian Institute of Sport (VIS). She currently plays for the RACV club and is coached by former world number one squash player Cassie Thomas.

“I didn’t have a coach for nine months which in retrospect helped me grow,” she said. “I had toworkoutmyowntacticstobeatmyopponent and not rely on someone else to tell me.

“I had to become more creative.”

She did however, struggle during this time to combat her mental demons.

“I got very anxious and struggled with my performances,” she said. “I was burned out. I turned to Paul Price, a performance specialist and former squash champion, within three

months I was feeling good and back in control of my game.”

Being selected to represent Australia in the World Junior Squash Championships last month is the pinnacle of her career to date.

It meant she was ranked in the top six players in the country and to make the teams event was even better because she was then ranked in the top four.

Australia finished in the top eight for the first time in 20 years. She is currently ranked number one in Australia in the under 17’s and number two in the female junior rankings overall.

Guziak has a gruelling training regime where she trains and plays five days a week.

She believes that it is the VIS strength and conditioning program that has seen her rise up the rankings.

“I am much physically stronger, have better agilityandendurance,”shesaid.“Ilovenothing better than bringing myself to complete exhaustion following a fitness session.

“I am just the most competitive person! My strengths are my fitness and work ethic. I am skilful and disciplined. My focus and mental strength are also critical for me.”

The world championships was her second big event in a short period of time, having been part of a Squash Australia tour group that went to England to play in the British

Junior Open Squash Tournament last year.

It was her first international experience.

“I wasn’t nervous or intimidated, I had nothing to lose so I went onto the court to test myself against the world’s best,” she said.

“The experience was invaluable.

“I think it definitely helped me during the recent World Championships. I wasn’t nervous, I felt I belonged, and I was driven to succeed.”

The year 10 student at Keilor Downs Secondary College has some big goals in the near future.

“My short-term goals are to knock out a top seed in a Professional Squash Association event and win the under-19 Australian Junior Championships.

“I’d like to go back to the British Junior Open and make it to the final.

“Longer term, I’d like to build my world ranking, and improve in stages to the top 50, top 20 and to be world number one.”

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

If you would like to nominate a monthly winner or attend a dinner, contact swrsportsclub@gmail.com or 0408 556 631.

Torcaso has been one of the leading managers in Victorian women’s football since taking over Calder United’s inaugural side in 2016.

After winning a remarkable 11 trophies at Calder, Torcaso stepped into the role at Western United and carried the team all the way to the A-League Women’s grand final, winning the coach of the year award.

Torcaso is also director of soccer at Epping school St Monicas, principal Brian Hanly congratulated him on his appointment.

“We are very pleased to see Mark achieve this international appointment,” he said.

“Mark heads an important program that aims to give students the opportunity to achieve at the highest level. We create local, national and international pathways for our students.”

Harper Sercombe

Laverton seal promotion

Laverton finished the FV state league 4 west season on the perfect note to seal promotion and the championship on Saturday.

Laverton needed a win in the final round against Moonee Ponds United to ensure top spot, with Surf Coast sitting one point behind it. A draw wouldn’t have been good enough with Surf Coast having a better goal difference.

Laverton took the lead in the 10th minute through Carlo Velasquez to give the side the upper hand.

That would be the margin at half time.

Laverton would double the lead in the 70th minute through Marcelo De La Plaza and after that it would be party time.

While Laverton wasn’t able to add to the scoreboard, it had done enough to get the 2-0 win and the championship.

Laverton’s season isn’t over though, with it to play off against the other three state league 4 winners to crown an overall winner.

It’sbeenabigseasonforLaverton,with its reserves side also claiming the title.

Surf Coast managed to get the win and will play off to try and earn promotion in state league 3 north-west.

WhileLavertoncelebratedonSaturday night, Williamstown was the hard case story in state league 3 north-west.

Williamstown entered the final round in second spot and needed a win to ensure it earned promotion or hope if it lost that Craigieburn also lost.

Williamstown scored in the opening minute against Western Eagles to get off to a perfect start, but the Eagles levelled the scores in the 22nd minute.

Neither team could get another goal, with the teams having to share the points with a 1-1 draw.

Craigieburn on the other hand was able to get the win against the Sebastopol Vikings, to claim second spot and finish one point ahead of Williamstown.

Tara Murray

Amelie Guziak. (Supplied)