Star Weekly - Hobsons Bay Maribyrnong - 15th November 2023 by Star Weekly

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Native nursery may wilt By Jennifer Pittorino A petition has been created in support of Newport Lakes Native Nursery, which is facing possible closure due to Hobsons Bay council’s move to increase the business’s rent. The petition was created by Friends of Skeleton Creek to demonstrate to councillors how important the nursery is to the community. This petition, which calls on council to reconsider the terms of the new lease, has amassed almost 2,000 signatures online. The nursery has been in operation for more than 24 years, working to provide the community with rare native plants. Owner Nick Pandya said for the last two decades, council has been generous with its rental agreement, leaving him shocked when the new lease was delivered. “The new lease agreement lists very high rates which is not affordable for our business,” Mr Pandya said. “As per our last profit statement we know that in order to survive we cannot afford that big of a jump.” The nursery must sign the lease agreement for the next five years, although Mr Pandya would prefer year by year. “By year four and five, it will no longer be affordable for us to rent the space,“ he said. “For the next three years we can afford the rent and grow our plants, but after that we will need to close.” The nursery supplies plants to individuals, councils, Melbourne Water, conservation groups and schools. Mr Pandya said he and his staff also enjoy giving free workshops for schools and groups. “We hope council will consider those factors and not just money. Please give us a lease for year four and five at an affordable rate or an agreement for just the next three.” The current lease expires at the end of 2024. Mr Pandya said the previous lease also included water and electricity, now the new agreement lists those outgoings separately in addition to increased rent. “We are providing the community with rare plants, we don’t sell roses and fruit trees here,” he said. “For example, we have a different customer base to other nurseries and Bunnings, which

Nick Pandya at the Newport Lakes Native Nursery. (Damjan Janevski) 371308_01

have a lot of money coming in.” Nursery employee Angela Whiffin said if the nursery is forced to close most people won’t know about the history of the native plants. “We are also open seven days a week, the public can come in at any time and see these plants growing to be able to put them in their gardens and protect them,” she said. Friends of Newport Lakes president Neil Zimmerman said he was extremely disheartened to hear of the nursery’s possible closure.

“The nursery is one of the few that supplies native plants indigenous to the area,” he said. “It is a small business driven by environmental and community values by a dedicated and knowledgeable workforce. “All this experience will be lost as there is little likelihood of finding an alternative workplace in the current rental market. “If this nursery was to close, not only would we lose a local small business but also a significant asset to the community.” Representatives from Friends of Skeleton

Creek met with Hobsons Bay mayor Matt Tyler and deputy mayor Pamela Sutton-Legaud on Sunday, November 12 to discuss the petition. Despite leaving without any concrete answers, the group said they left the meeting feeling positive. Hobsons Bay council said it was unable to respond until it received the petition. The petition was set to go before the council on Tuesday night, after deadline. Details: https://shorturl.at/jvSTX

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Fatal heroin overdoses climbing Maribyrnong has recorded the state’s third-highest number of heroin overdose deaths in Victoria in 2023, new data reveals. The Victorian Coroner released the Victorian overdose deaths report on November 8, which showed 22 people in Maribyrnong died of overdoses in 2022, the highest figure in the municipality in the past 10 years. It was up from 14 in 2021 and was only fourth behind the Melbourne local government area, which had 32 deaths last year. Maribyrnong was fourth for the number of

heroin overdoses in 2022. Fourteen people died of heroin overdose in 2022 - almost three times the number from the year before which stood at five. In Hobsons Bay, there was 13 overdose deaths and while no figure for heroin deaths was provided in the report. The data showed that 230 Victorian’s died from heroin overdose in 2022 compared to 173 in 2021, representing a 33 per cent increase state wide, while overall there was 549 overdose deaths, up from 500 in 2021. cohealth chief executive Nicole

Bartholomeusz. said the latest report was a wake-up call for policy makers and said there is much work to be done to improve community understanding of addiction. The organisation is calling for a supervised injecting room service to be established in the Melbourne CBD as concerns for drug overdose deaths grow. “In the face of these staggering numbers, we need a broad-based response that includes improved access to pharmacotherapy, introducing pill testing, the establishment of an overdose prevention service and making

Naloxone more easily available in the community,” she said. “Every one of these deaths is tragic and could have been prevented if we had the right policy settings and health systems in place. “It is critical for us as a community to recognise that addiction is a health issue that needs a health response.” “At cohealth we support people who use drugs with wraparound health and social supports, including GPs, nurses and social workers. But we can’t help people once they are dead.”

Lend a hand to Footscray SES

Author Emma Bowd with year 4 students:Zachary, Bailee and Marlee who took part in writing the book. (Damjan Janevski) 368412_04

Crafting first time authors at school Author Emma Bowd recently worked with year 3, 4, 5 and 6 students at Braybrook’s Dinjerra Primary School to transform a story into a published book, which was launched at the school on Friday, November 10. Ms Bowd was at the school as part writer in residence program is run by Ardoch, which is an educational support non-for-profit organisation designed to engage students in literacy activities. During the program, a published children’s author leads weekly workshops, guiding and inspiring students to develop their creativity, storytelling and writing skills. Ms Bowd said she had an enormous amount

of fun creating her first storybook with students. “It is a credit to the students that they all worked so well together,” she said. “I could not be happier with Happy and the Sports Carnival Day Disaster. It’s an entertaining and joyous story with many lovely connections to school life at Dinjerra Primary. All the illustrations are the work of the talented students.” Year 5 classroom teacher Rebecca Clark said the process was very collaborative and kept the students engaged through each of the three sessions. “It was a very creative, meaningful and fun

process which was mostly group work, talking about sharing ideas, incorporating school values and emotional regulation framework,” she said. One class from each year level participated, carrying on each other’s work. “The year 3’s and 4’s worked on from the beginning, and then the 5’s and 6’s carried on, while they all worked on the illustrations,” she said. “One group of students drew animals, some drew students, they all drew themselves and the teachers.”

The Footscray State Emergency Services (SES) unit is seeking new recruits to help combat emergencies in the Maribyrnong municipality. Those interested in this opportunity are required to live or work within 15 minutes from the Footscray unit and are preferably available during weekdays during business hours and are willing to undergo water boat operations. The SES Footscray team is made up of 40 members who meet once a week at the council depot. The team have undergone a wide range of training and experiences to respond to emergencies, including storms, floods, searches. Luke Scholes joined the unit this year, in the last several months he has participated in many call outs. These include searching for a missing person in rural Victoria, helped deal with fallen trees blocking access after a storm, and engaged with the public on behalf of SES at the Royal Melbourne Show. “I have enjoyed my journey so far, I’m in a great unit that is supportive in everything I do, and the training is very good,” he said. “I highly recommend joining your local SES unit if you’re interested in being part of a great team, as it’s rewarding to give back to your local community”. Applications close November 31. Details: www.ses.vic.gov.au/join-us/ volunteer

Jennifer Pittorino

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Trees are cool

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By Cr Jonathon Marsden Trees have such a beneficial impact on our lives. Tree-lined streets and parks look beautiful, sure, but they are actually far more important than that. The amount of shade around us has a profound effect on our social and physical wellbeing — much more than you might otherwise think. Imagine, for example, two suburban streets or parks on a hot summer’s day – one is tree-lined with deep shade along the footpath; the other has no shade, leaving nowhere to escape the baking heat. If you have that cool shade along your street, you might decide to go for a walk with your family or catch up with friends at the local park or just sit and watch the world go by. The more shade we have, the cooler our streets will be, and the more people will be active and social –crucial elements in a happy, healthy community. It’s why the success of Hobsons Bay’s Urban Forest Strategy is so critical. We have historically one of the lowest amounts of natural shade in greater Melbourne and in the last few years we have massively increased the number of trees we plant each season. Our canopy cover – how much of our city is covered in shade – was at just 7.5 per cent in 2018. We have an ambitious target to get that to 30 per cent by 2040. That means we need to plant a lot of trees and shrubs than we normally would. We’re making really good progress. Since 2020, we’ve planted almost 100,000 trees, including 45,000 trees as part of the More Trees for a Cooler, Greener West initiative. We’ve also planted 130,000 understory plants throughout our conservation areas. Community groups, including ‘Friends of’ groups, play an important role in our long-term plans. Residents also make a huge contribution to our goal by embracing programs that

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4 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 15 November, 2023

Cr Jonathon Marsden.

encourage people to plant trees and plants in their yards. I’ve heard some concerns expressed in the community about the rapid rate of our tree planting program and whether the trees will make it. Of course, not every tree planted will survive to maturity, but of the advanced trees council staff have planted in our parks and reserves this year, fewer than 3 per cent have failed to establish, while only 2 per cent have been vandalised (and then replaced). Additionally, the excess rainfall we had last planting season (April to September) has made establishing new plantings harder, but things have significantly improved this season. Our contractors are responsible for maintaining new plantings in our streets for the first two years before council takes ownership of them. That means that any trees that don’t survive during that time are replaced by the contractors — at no cost to council. Greater canopy cover gives us a greener environment, more shade, better air quality and habitat for wildlife, which is vital for our physical and mental wellbeing. And that’s why we are planting so many new trees.

Briefs Safe driver program Maribyrnong council is holding a senior safe driver program across two sessions, specifically designed to support older road users. The sessions will be held at the Braybrook Community Hub on Monday, November 20 from 2pm-3pm and at the Maribyrnong Aquatic Centre (MAC) on Monday, November 27, from 11am-12 pm. The program covers a range of topics, including road safety tips, choosing a safe vehicle and the impact of health and medications on driving. Afternoon tea will be provided at the Braybrook Community Hub session, and light lunch will be provided during the session at MAC. Bookings are essential for both sessions, call the Braybrook Community Hub on 9364 9622 and MAC on 9032 4100.

Seniors exercise sessions Hobsons Bay council is hosting free exercise classes for seniors every Friday and Wednesday in November from 10am-11am. The sessions will be held at the seniors exercise park at Donald McLean Reserve, Spotswood. Donald McLean Reserve has been refurbished to include specialised outdoor exercise equipment for older people to engage in physical and social activities. The brand-new equipment aims to help older people improve strength, balance, flexibility and mobility. FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Maribyrnong & Hobsons Bay Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

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Council is building better places Several Hobsons Bay council projects are underway to improve Seabrook and Altona Meadows. Better Places Seabrook and Altona Meadows place guide was recently adopted by Hobsons Bay council, giving the green light to a range of projects that will make the suburbs more connected, efficient and liveable neighbourhoods. The place guide outlines six project areas, thinking cleaner and safer, neighbourhood character and greening, better villages, better places and spaces, improving the walking and

cycling network and improving the transport network. Each project area features ideas, initiatives and opportunities contributed by residents of these suburbs. The council said it wanted to include ways to make Seabrook and Altona Meadows cleaner, greener and cooler, ways to improve the ‘village’ lifestyle, ideas for better community recreational spaces and ways to better move around these neighbourhoods. Some of the projects already underway include a local clean up blitz of some public

areas including the garden beds around the flower sculpture on the corner of Queen and Merton streets, Victoria Street medium strips and Victoria Street shops. The development of the new open space area at Bruce Comben Reserve is also apart of these projects. Outgoing Hobsons Bay mayor Tony Briffa said it’s an important program that’s making a difference to Hobsons Bay suburbs. “I am so pleased to see the Seabrook and Altona Meadows plan moving forward,” she said.

“The beauty of Better Places is that the projects in these place guides come from residents who live, work and play in these suburbs every day. “No one knows how to improve a neighbourhood better than the people who live there. “I’m looking forward to seeing these projects come to life and the people of Seabrook and Altona Meadows enjoying an even more connected and beautiful place to live.”

Ninety years of Darrel James ‘Darrel’ Munn celebrated his 90th birthday on Monday, November 13 with those he loves most. Darrel has lived in Altona for more than 60 years and been a large part of the Hobsons Bay community. It was 1959 when Darrel and his late wife Norma moved to Altona following their marriage. The pair met in Trentham when Darrel was working as a bank teller and Norma worked at a clothing and material shop. “We knew each other for nine months before we decided to get married,” he said. “Together we had three kids and seven grandchildren, all fantastic and successful.” Before the move Darrel grew up in a small town near the South Australian border. “I moved to Melbourne to live with my sister while she was pregnant and her husband was at war,” he said. The youngest of 11 siblings, Darrel was a

hard worker working at more than 50 bank branches across his career. Darrel enjoys remembering the times he travelled the world with his wife, something they did a lot of. “Over 25 years, we did a lot of travelling, it was always somewhere new and great.” These days, Darrel spends his time watching Foxtel and catching up with everyone he loves. “I love all sport, I will watch anything but I love AFL the most, and this year my team were the premiers,” he said. “I live in a nice home and still enjoy driving my car, I have nice neighbours who all look after me with my family.” Darrel and his family celebrated the big birthday with a special dinner and big night out. Jennifer Pittorino Darrel Munn recently celebrated his 90th birthday. (Damjan Janevski) 371092_03

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Smart garden wins award

Mayor Matt Tyler and deputy mayor Pamela Sutton-Legaud.

Tyler steps up as mayor By Jennifer Pittorino Councillor Matt Tyler has been elected mayor of Hobsons Bay for the next 12 months. The Wetlands Ward councillor was promoted from his 2022-23 position as councillor at a council meeting on Friday, November 10. Cr Tyler beat councillor Pamela Sutton-Legaud for the mayoral position, receiving the majority of votes, 4-3. This is Cr Tyler’s first mayoral term. He has served on council for three years, having first been elected in 2020. He said he is honoured to be elected mayor of an “amazing” community. “I’m grateful to my councillor colleagues and also to so many people who have got in touch with warm messages of congratulations.

I’m excited about getting stuck into the year ahead,” he said. In the year ahead Cr Tyler said he is focused on getting results for the community. “Many folks, residents and businesses are doing it tough,” he said. “While council doesn’t have access to some of the big levers such as supports to get people back into work, which is led by the federal government, the little things add up. “I’m keen to see practical work prioritised that can make life a little easier for people, such as ongoing improvements to council’s customer service. “Council can also make an important contribution by lifting people’s spirits, facilitating connection and inclusion, as well as through our advocacy.”

In the next coming weeks, Cr Tyler said he will have more share in regards to his mayoral program. “I’ll listen, celebrate so many folks and organisations that make our community great, and do my best to deliver an agenda that makes our community even better.” Cr Tony Briffa congratulated the new mayor, welcoming him to the position. “You are going to be a sensational mayor, you live by your values which are beautiful,” she said. Cr Sutton-Legaud was elected deputy mayor for 2023-24. “I am delighted to be the deputy mayor, I think it will be an exciting year,” said Cr Sutton-Legaud. “I hope members of the community know they can call on me and I will listen to them.”

My Smart Garden has been recognised for its innovative way of spreading the sustainability message with a Keep Australia Beautiful Victoria award. The program picked up the Education (City) award for the way it empowers people across Melbourne’s suburbs to create sustainable gardens. Eleven councils including Hobsons Bay and Maribyrnong collaborate to deliver My Smart Garden. The free program provides resources to help grow food, habitat and shelter, while staying healthy, cutting grocery bills and meeting neighbours. It helps teach everyone from expert green thumbs to novice gardeners how to make the most of their garden, even if you’re renting or have limited space. Former Hobsons Bay mayor Tony Briffa said council is proud of its contribution to the program. “It makes learning about how we can make the most of our gardens fun, gives great tips and advice, and really helps people cut down their food bills,“ she said. “This is a fantastic partnership across 11 councils in Melbourne, and it’s great to see it recognised for the valuable contribution it’s making to our residents and our local environment.” Former Maribyrnong mayor Sarah Carter said “this collaborative program exemplifies the power of community-driven sustainability”. “My Smart Garden is not just cultivating gardens, it’s nurturing a sense of environmental responsibility and fostering connections to enable our cities to thrive.”

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6 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 15 November, 2023

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Bartlett New Maribyrnong mayor New sculpture stuns By Jennifer Pittorino

Councillor Cuc Lam has been elected as mayor of Maribyrnong for the next 12 months. The Stony Creek Ward councillor was promoted from her 2022-23 position as deputy mayor at a council meeting on Wednesday, November 8. Cr Lam beat councillor Bernadette Thomas for the mayoral position, receiving the majority of votes. This is Cr Lam’s second mayoral term, having first being elected mayor in 2017-18. She has served on council for 10 years, having first being elected in 2000 and then again in 2016. She said she is feeling grateful towards her fellow councillors for voting her in as mayor. “I am honoured to be trusted with the responsibility of leading the city,” she said. Cr Lam said she plans to work closely with the Asian, refugee and elderly communities. “I want to listen to these people and be available for them,” she said. “I want them to know they can come and talk to me, email me and share a cup of coffee with me, I will be available. “As mayor I will consult with my fellow counsellors and share ideas to provide the best service to the community.” Cr Lam said within the next year she will focus on building a multicultural community into Maribyrnong. “I will be advocating for the old Footscray hospital site, looking into cultures, working with local residents and businesses,” she said, “I would love to bring business back to the area, I also look forward to sharing milestone birthdays with our residents when they turn 100.” Cr Lam said she has learnt a lot from her predecessor councillor Sarah Carter while she

Mayor Cuc Lam. (Supplied)

was deputy mayor. “She is a very intelligent counsellor and I have learnt a lot from her, although I do have a different style and a different way of doing

things which has developed over the last 10 years.” Cr Clarke was elected deputy mayor for 2023-24.

Footscray has welcomed a new addition to its landscape, with the installation of ‘Maribyrnong’, a sculpture by renowned Melbourne artist Geoffrey Bartlett. The 10-metre vertical sculpture is located at the Hopkins Street Bridge, constructed from durable painted steel, copper, and bronze, features abstract steel sail forms that appear to be in constant motion, symbolising Footscray’s maritime history, drawing inspiration from sailing and shipbuilding. The artwork was commissioned as part of the broader public realm works at the Boathouse apartments, in partnership with Maribyrnong council. Former mayor Sarah Carter said the large-scale permanent sculpture stands as a dynamic gateway marker to the city. “It is a captivating addition, poised to become an iconic landmark and further enriching the vibrancy of our cultural landscape for years to come,” she said. “The sculpture will provide valuable community spaces, promoting social interactions and enhancing the overall living experience for all residents, both new and existing, in the surrounding area.” Positioned as a focal point for residents, pedestrians, and commuters, the council said it offers various viewing angles from spots such as Hopkins Street Bridge, Joseph Road and the Maribyrnong River. According to the council, ‘Maribyrnong’ mirrors the herringbone patterning on the boat house development facade as a tribute to timber boat decking.

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Bulldogs face $6 million payout By Emily Woods, AAP The Western Bulldogs will pay out almost $6 million to a child sex abuse victim after it was found negligent in giving a paedophile special access to the boy. A Supreme Court civil jury on Thursday November 9 delivered its verdict against the Bulldogs over the abuse of Adam Kneale, 51, at the hands of a club fundraiser, following a four-week trial. When asked whether the football club’s negligence caused Mr Kneale’s injuries, the foreperson said “yes”. The jury of six determined Mr Kneale should be paid out $5,943,151 for pain and suffering, loss of earnings and medical-related expenses. Mr Kneale hugged his supporters in court after hearing the verdict. His lawyers say the compensation is the largest awarded by a jury to an abuse survivor in Australia and the first against an AFL club. He was the victim of a years-long campaign of sexual abuse at the hands of Graeme Hobbs, known as “Chops”, who trained under-19s at Footscray Football Club and was a prolific volunteer fundraiser for the club. He was just 12 years old when the “jack of all trades” Hobbs first raped him at an administration building at the club’s home ground in 1984. Mr Kneale brought the action to court as he said the football club was vicariously liable for his abuse because it gave Hobbs special access. He sought aggravated damages after the club didn’t reach out to him when his abuse became public - a failure he says left him with no closure after everything that happened on its grounds. The Western Bulldogs had denied it knew about the offending.

Victim Adam Kneale. (AAP Image/James Ross)

Mr Kneale told the court last month he was first introduced to Hobbs at the age of 11 or 12 through a schoolmate, who suggested the man was a source of “easy money”. He would meet Hobbs at the top of a stairwell at the Bulldogs’ home ground at the start of games and Hobbs would hand over cash and direct him to come back after halftime. As Mr Kneale got older and Hobbs continued to abuse him, the now-deceased paedophile opened up to him more about what he and others did. He told a 16-year-old Mr Kneale of

gatherings at farmhouses, and “swap meets” where paedophiles would bring their “best boys” to be abused by different people. When his daughter was born, Mr Kneale said he realised he had to turn Hobbs in to police, knowing he was abusing other children including those “not long out of nappies”. Mr Kneale said he spent years unable to work after Hobbs received an inadequate jail term and left relationships so as not to burden his partners, deeming himself “damaged beyond repair”. Former club president Peter Gordon told

the court he was first made aware of Hobbs’ crimes when a journalist contacted the club in April last year. Hobbs pleaded guilty to sexually abusing Mr Kneale in May 25, 1994, with the local paper splashing the story on the front page. Mr Gordon was club president at the time the story was published but denied ever seeing or being told about the article. The Western Bulldogs in a statement said the Club will appeal this jury verdict as expeditiously as possible and will be making no further comment.

VACANT BLOCK AND BROAD ACREAGE FIRE HAZARD INSPECTIONS COMMENCING SOON Do you own a vacant block or broad acreage within Hobsons Bay?

TODAY

In preparedness for the summer season, Council will be undertaking inspections of vacant blocks and broad acreage properties between Monday 20 November and Monday 11 December 2023 to assess if the property is a fire risk/hazard. For vacant blocks, we recommend you ensure your property meets the following criteria before the commencement of the inspection period: • Grass, weeds or undergrowth are under 10cm in height • Tree branches, leaves, green waste and/or rubbish are not on the property • Bushes/shrubs are not excessively overgrown • The property is free from combustible/flammable material (such as wood piles, dried grass, empty containers, and derelict vehicles) For properties over 5 acres, a fire break of 10 metres around the perimeter of the property is required. This includes the removal of all combustible/flammable material (such as wood piles, dried grass, empty containers, and derelict vehicles). Please note: It is important that you ensure your vacant land is cleared throughout the year to reduce fire hazards.

12483039-SN08-21

For more information on Council’s Fire Hazard Inspections please contact 1300 179 944.

www.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au

8 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 15 November, 2023

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Worry for teaching in the west By Zoe Moffatt The Australian Education Union (AEU) has called for greater investment into teaching, amid a new government campaign to attract teachers, while Melbourne’s west boasts some of the highest teaching vacancies in the state. According to November 9 data from the Department of Education, Melbourne’s north west is home to some of Victoria’s highest vacancy rates. This includes 63 vacancies in Brimbank, 93 in Melton, 135 in Hume, 162 in Wyndham, 57 in Whittlesea, and 39 in Hobsons Bay. These figures come off the back of a joint

state and federal recruitment ‘Be That Teacher’ campaign which has rolled out across TV, digital and social media, outdoor and cinema advertising. It showcases the value and importance of teachers through an online gallery showcasing inspirational and personal stories about the lasting impact teachers have on students. AEU Victorian branch president Meredith Peace said they welcome the efforts but the advertising campaign alone will not address the teacher shortage crisis in Victoria. “There are currently more than 580 job vacancies in schools across the Brimbank, Hume, Maribyrnong, Melton and Wyndham

council regions, with 200 vacant roles in the Wyndham council area alone,” she said. “These local government areas are among the fastest growing regions in Victoria, and it is extremely concerning that so many schools are unable to find the qualified teachers they need. “It’s clear that more must be done to ensure that these schools are adequately staffed to provide the best possible educational outcomes for students in such a major growth corridor. ” Ms Peace said the AEU is calling for urgent action, including paid placements to support students studying to become teachers. “We call upon Premier Jacinta Allan to take

urgent action to address workforce shortages,” she said. “Starting with the introduction of a teacher retention payment to keep hard working and dedicated public school teachers in Victorian classrooms.” A Department of Education spokesperson said the number of teachers in Victoria has grown at twice the national average. “Vacancies often peak in term four as schools advertise for roles commencing in the next school year,” the spokesperson said. “We are actively supporting government schools to address any workforce shortages including in Melbourne’s western suburbs.”

Diving into lake stories South Kingsville resident Dominique Hes needs the community’s input to help write a book which tells the story of Newport Lakes. “I am writing a book about the lake and its history [and] I thought it would be great to talk about how the community has worked together to bring it to life,” she said. “We first moved to the area for the lake and during COVID I saw how precious it became to everyone, this is a way to acknowledge that.” Dominque is looking for Hobsons Bay locals to share their experiences with the lake, by filling out a survey or getting in touch with her. “I am looking for stories people might have, anything that they associate with the lake,” she said. “I would love for more people to fill that survey out to let us know how much they valued the lake during that time

[COVID lockdowns]. “We would also love to see any photos that people have and would be happy to share.” Ms Hes said she hopes to have all of the data collated by the end of November. “My intention is to spend the summer writing. I will spend the next four or five months writing and launch it at the next bush festival in May. “This will also be ready for the 40 year anniversary for the first friends group starting up.” Details: https://ow.ly/CV4v50Q6Hfl Jennifer Pittorino

Dominique Hes at the Newport Lakes Reserve. (Damjan Janevski) 370890_05

Congratulations to the West Gate Neighbourhood Fund Partnerships and Active Community Grants recipients We are pleased to announce the successful recipients of West Gate Neighbourhood Fund Partnerships Round 2 and the newly established Active Community Grants. Congratulations to the 49 organisations based in Melbourne’s inner west whose projects will celebrate history, support diverse communities, focus on arts, provide new opportunities and skills for communities, increase participation, and bring the community together. The projects recognise and celebrate the Hobsons Bay and Maribyrnong communities, supporting those who are most affected by the construction of the West Gate Tunnel Project.

The successful recipients are: 1st Footscray Scout Hall 2nd Footscray Scout Group Altona City Soccer Club Altona Hockey Club Altona Junior Football Club Altona Lacrosse Club Altona Miniature Railway Altona North Cricket Club Altona North Soccer Club Altona Tennis Club Barnstoneworth United Football Club Coastal Rowing Williamstown Diesel Electric Rail Motor Preservation Association of Victoria East African Women’s Foundation Foodbank Victoria Footscray Angliss Cricket Club Footscray Baseball Club

Footscray Community Arts Centre Footscray Hockey Club Footscray Lacrosse Club Footscray Park Bowling Club Girl Guides Victoria Hobsons Bay District Hobsons Bay City Council Inner West Community Bike Hub Kariwara District Scouts Laverton Magpies Football Club Laverton Park Tennis Club Liston Tennis Club Maribyrnong Swifts Football Club Newport Bowls Club Newport Digman Cricket Club Newport Ladies Lacrosse Club Newport Power Junior Football Club Power House Junior Rugby Union Football Club

Rainbow Beach Tennis Seaworks Foundation Seddon Cricket Club Spotswood Sports Club West Footscray Football Club Western Crusaders Gridiron Club Western Region Football League Western Region Football League Umpires Association Williamstown Baseball Club Williamstown Bowling Club Williamstown CYMS Football Club Williamstown Seagulls FIDA Football Club Williamstown Women’s Lacrosse Club Yarraville Community Centre Yarraville Cricket Club

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Hospital site under evaluation Feedback is being sort on how the existing Footscray Hospital site could be used when services move to the new hospital in 2025. The state government is currently assessing the site to understand how to best deliver for current and emerging community needs. An online survey is now open for the broader community to give their feedback aiming to capture insights from people who have a connection to the area and inform what services the community needs most. Footscray MP Katie Hall said this is an opportunity for the local community to tell the government what is most important to them and what they would like to see when it comes to the existing Footscray Hospital site. Department of Transport and Planning staff will also be available for a chat in-person

The state government is searching for feedback on how to use the existing Footscray hospital. (Supplied)

about the existing Footscray Hospital site on November 16, November 21 and February 10. The department has been working with key

stakeholders including Maribyrnong council, Victoria University, Western Health, Western Bulldogs, the West of Melbourne Economic

Development Alliance, LEADWEST and the community on the new hospital The new hospital is Victoria’s biggest health infrastructure project to date, with $1.5 billion being invested into replacing the existing hospital and freeing up 6.6 hectares along Gordon Street for future redevelopment. Precincts Minister Colin Brooks said they are planning for the future of the old hospital site along Gordon Street by adding to our significant investments in transport, health and education within Footscray. The state government has indicated that the plans for the site will be revealed mid next year. The survey is open until February 29. Details: engage.vic.gov.au/footscray

Rotary donation fulfils rowing dreams Footscray High School has received a $3000 donation from West Footscray and Williamstown Rotary clubs, to purchase quad oars to be used in their rowing program. The school is one of only four public schools in the state which runs a rowing program, primarily using the equipment from the Footscray City Rowing Club. Head of Rowing teacher Stephanie Patterson, said the students were responsible for approaching the rotaries. “The students reached out and listed all of the reasons they needed the support, all of the liaising was done by the students through email,” she said. “They put their case forward and eventually the rotaries got in contact with me to verify

everything.” The program is now in its second year, currently with 19 students in the program. “This donation will benefit those kids as well as every future Footscray High School student that comes through.” Ms Patterson said the school had decided to begin the program because of the large amount of community interest. “We had many local families tell us how much they would appreciate a rowing program, being so close to the river it only made sense. “Everyone is beyond excited and proud to have rowing offered to the students when it is not a common program. “We are hoping it will entice future

enrolments as we are able to bridge the gap between public and private education and offer an equal opportunity for all. Williamstown Rotarian Damien Hynes said the club is happy to be involved. “We are happy to support schools and students who embark on new initiatives and adventures,” he said. Jennifer Pittorino (L-R) Damien Hynes (Williamstown Rotary), Glenn Preusker (West Footscray Rotary), Molly Strachan, Warwick Burnham (West Footscray Rotary) , Layla Carrodus, Roger Clime (President West footscray Rotary). Stephanie Patterson, Sylvie Ward, Indiana Beattie. (Supplied)

We’re building big near you and there will be disruptions As part of Victoria’s Big Build, we’re building the Metro Tunnel. Twin nine-kilometre tunnels have been dug under the city, and construction is underway on five underground stations. The Metro Tunnel will connect the Cranbourne and Pakenham lines to Sunbury, with test trains now running through the tunnel.

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The Chestnut Tree The Chestnut Tree is a small locally owned business – an independent bookshop and cafe on the land of Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung and Bunurong people of the Kulin Nation. The team behind the business has a dream to become the heart of the community, a place where words of wisdom are shared (and read), where friendships are made, where the magic of children’s story time lingers while poetry readings and book clubs gather. The store has a wide range of general fiction and non-fiction, and if you can’t find what you’re looking for just let the staff know and they can order it in for you! Check the store’s socials or visit the team in store to find out about upcoming book clubs and other events. @chestnuttreebookshop hello@thechestnuttree.com.au www.thechestnuttree.com.au Jumpside- Footscray Welcome to Jumpside, the ultimate indoor adventure park. Featuring trampolines, ninja obstacles and action packed fun. Jump, flip, twist and soar through the exciting trampoline zones. Channel your inner ninja and conquer the ninja warrior obstacles. Experience the rush of the air track sports. Guaranteed fun for all ages, including your little one in the junior play zone, designed for 5 years and under. The new additions add an interactive element. Speed touch, bullseye and the basketball shoot out, these three new interactive challenges will test your skills in a

Yarraville Dental Yarraville Dental, nestled on Anderson Street in the heart of Yarraville, is your go-to destination for exceptional dental care. With a commitment to excellence and a passion for oral health, the skilled team of professionals is dedicated to serving the local community. Yarraville Dental offers a wide range of dental services, from routine check-ups and cleanings to specialised treatments. The experienced and caring staff ensures your comfort and well-being throughout your visit. But Yarrraville Dental is more than just a dental clinic. It is a trusted partner in your overall health and wellness journey. Conveniently located in Yarraville, the clinic provides easy access to comprehensive dental care that promotes your smile and enhances your quality of life. Experience top-tier dental services with a warm, welcoming approach at Yarraville Dental. Carnovale Pharmacy Carnovale Pharmacy takes pride in providing expert services in various health areas. It is open 24 hours a day, every day of the year, and provide a free nursing service every day between 6pm and 10pm. The highly trained pharmacists are knowledgeable about various health-related topics and medications. At Carnovale Pharmacy staff focus on addressing not just the symptoms but also the underlying health issues to achieve the best possible health outcomes. The pharmacy has a patient-centered approach to healthcare. If you have specific questions or need assistance with your health-related needs, it’s advisable to reach out to the pharmacy directly for more information about services and how it can assist you and your family.

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fun game environment. Party time? Celebrate at Jumpside which offers a fun filled and action packed awesome party experience. Open seven days a week, see you at Jumpside.

Life Ready Physio + Pilates Maribyrnong Life Ready Physio + Pilates Maribyrnong runs an arthritis clinic. If you have been struggling with arthritis pain of any kind then reach out for a free discovery session with one of the expert physiotherapists to discuss your problem and what might work best for you and your circumstances. Contact Life Ready on 9086 5843 and mention the Star Weekly to claim your free session today. 12633475-JC37-23

Prestige Fruit and Veg Prestige Fruit and Veg is a greengrocer located in Yarraville. It is a family-owned business that proudly supports local farmers by only buying local produce. In store, customers will find a large range of fresh fruit and vegetables as well as a number of grocery items. Customers enjoy free delivery on orders over $35, wholesale and retail. Prestige Fruit and Veg delivers to over 24 cafes in Yarraville and surrounding areas.

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Tunnel beams hoisted into place Two more milestones have been reached on the West Gate Tunnel Project, bringing the project one step closer to completion. The underground roadway has now been completed at the outbound tunnel exit, as well as the connection between the new bridge across Maribyrnong River and Footscray’s elevated road, with the giant beams now lifted into place. Work is continuing to join all pieces of the project together, with the main bridge over the Maribyrnong River to create a second river crossing from the west. The bridge will span 760 metres, featuring three lanes in each direction, and allowing motorists to travel from the West Gate Tunnel

to CityLink and the CBD. On top of the completed roads, the two tunnel boring machines that built the tunnels Bella and Vida, have finished their journeys and have been dismantled, alongside the 400-tonne cranes that helped remove them from deep under the ground. A crew of more than 250 people has worked around the clock to install almost seven kilometres of road deck in both tunnels. The crew will now move onto installing hundreds of kilometres of electrical and safety systems, while building the ground level ventilation system at the outbound tunnel exit and architectural timber features at its entrances.

Premier Jacinta Allan said crews have done an amazing job working around the clock. “I want to thank them for their work in building this landmark project for our city’s west.” Transport Infrastructure Minister Danny Pearson said this is a huge milestone for the project. “It will take thousands of trucks off local roads and provide a vital alternative to the West Gate Bridge.” The project is due for completion in 2025. The final beams being lifted into place. (Supplied)

Gloves are on at club The Maribyrnong Youth Boxing Club has finally reopened one year after the October 2022 floods. President Andrew Gustincich said the club was forced to close down entirely for the duration of the rebuild. “We couldn’t set up anywhere else because we lost all of the equipment, we thought it would be best to throw everything out and start fresh,” he said. The club has been entirely volunteer run for more than 60 years , with participants varying from age and experience. “We have a lot of kids come to us once football finishes, at the moment we have upwards of 20 kids varying in ages from 12-18 years old. “My wife runs a boxing class which rotates between people, we have many different

family members coming to that class.” Mr Gustincich said they had kept people up to date during the 12 months to let them know how things were tracking with the rebuild. “We had only just recovered from COVID and getting our numbers back up when the floods hit, which brought us back to square one,” he said. Since the club’s reopening earlier this month, Mr Gustincich said the community had enjoyed coming back to train. “Christmas is coming up so everyone wants to get in shape and try something new,” he said. “None of this would have been possible without our secretary David Nugara who did a lot of work getting this sorted with [Maribyrnong council]. Jennifer Pittorino

Maribyrnong Boxing Club president Andrew Gustincich at the reopened club. (Damjan Janevski) 371256_02

PFAS Independent Review Call for submissions Public submissions for the Australian Government’s Independent Review of land uses around key Defence bases impacted by per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination opened 9am AEDT Monday 23 October 2023 and close 9pm AEDT Sunday 3 December 2023. The Review will focus on communities around RAAF Base Williamtown (NSW), Swartz Barracks (formerly known as the Army Aviation Centre Oakey) (QLD) and RAAF Base Tindal (NT). However, other communities affected by Defence’s historic use of PFAS are also able to make submissions. In addition to calling for submissions, public hearings are being held at the three sites, details for remaining hearings are below. Times are in local time zones. The Independent Reviewer will also be available for one on one conversations between the public hearing sessions. Learn more about the public hearings on our website.

Upcoming public hearings: Swartz Barracks Oakey Community Centre 64 Campbell Street, Oakey QLD 4401 Thursday 16 November 2023 Public hearings: • Session 1: 10am – 1pm • Session 2: 5:30pm – 8pm RAAF Base Tindal Katherine Town Council Civic Centre Lot 1865 Stuart Highway, Katherine NT 0850 Wednesday 22 November 2023 Public hearings: • Session 1: 10am – 12:30pm • Session 2: 5:30pm – 8pm (virtual only) Separate virtual hearings will be conducted to provide an opportunity for other interested parties to appear. Virtual hearings Wednesday 29 November 2023 • Session 1: 10am – 1pm • Session 2: 5:30pm – 8pm

Scan the QR code or visit the website below to learn more about the Review, including how to make a submission. Scanning the code will also provide details to register to speak at a public hearing or attend as an observer. www.pfasindependentreview.com.au Contact 1800 879 142 (9am – 5pm, Mon-Fri) pfas.submissions@defence.gov.au PO Box Q1084 Queen Victoria Building NSW 1230

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Indigenous leaders of the future More than 30 First Nations students from nine schools have graduated from the Western Bulldogs Community Foundation’s (WBCF) Nallei Jerring Koori Leadership program. The program aims to engage and empower First Nations high school students from Melbourne’s west through understanding, connection to community, culture, positive self-identity and leadership. It takes participants through a series of events, workshops and speaker presentations including cultural excursions, team building exercises, leadership skill development, AFL visits and hearing from respected Aboriginal

Elders and leaders. Congratulating participants at the program’s graduation ceremony earlier last week, Greater Western Water managing director Maree Lang said the water corporation’s program funding of $75,000 over three years was an important contribution to foster opportunities for young First Nations people in the community. “The area we service is diverse, vibrant and growing and we are committed to partnering with organisations that improve local liveability and wellbeing and deliver

meaningful community benefits,” she said. Aisha Nicolay, a director of both the Western Bulldogs Community Foundation and Greater Western Water, said “our dynamic, resilient young people have participated in a range of activities and events such as workshops, cultural excursions and team building exercises.” “Through this process, they have grown and supported one another in their shared identity, whilst also building confidence in who they are as individuals; empowering them to become the next generation of First Nations leaders.”

Graduates from the Nallei Jerring Koori Leadership program. (Supplied)

$1.18 million awarded to Yarraville Glory

ABFF president Annette Stephens, ABFF treasurer John Dawson, Altona Sports Club manager Gavin Comport, ABFF media Johnno Solo, Kasey (10), Kelina (8), and Ziva (10). (Jacob Pattison)362983_01

Altona film festival floats talent The Altona Beach Film Festival has come and gone for another year with organisers already looking forward to next year. President Annette Stephens started the festival nine years ago, leaving everyone excited for the upcoming tenth anniversary next year. This year’s festival theme was water. Water 2088 by William Butler won best in festival, while Inner Depths by Mark Russel Bernard, The Holiday by Kasey Vithilingum, Draw Me Arial by Willow Pugh and Tradies

by Christine and Damien Harris were also recognised “I really enjoy our presentation night every year,” Ms Stephens said. “It’s held at the Atlantic City Theatre and it’s a special chance for me to meet the filmmakers in person. We watch the films, have some entertainment and then we go back in and present the awards. “I think it’s important for the filmmakers to see those reactions as well. Then they get a proper understanding of how the film works,

what makes people laugh or makes people cry, it’s very interesting.” Ms Stephens said next year they are planning something special for the 10th anniversary. “We are not asking for entries for next year, we’re going to showcase the best of the last nine years,” she said. “We want to go back and revisit those films and let the audience see them again.”

Yarraville Glory has received a grant of $1.18 million to install female friendly change rooms to be used by women and girls at the soccer club. Glory council liaison officer Con Giatas said the club rooms are anticipated to be ready by the end of next year. “We are excited to have these stand alone change rooms which are female friendly,” he said. Mr Giatas said several teams will benefit from the new change rooms. “We have a senior women’s team, an under-12 girls team, an under-16 girls team and various grassroots teams,” he said. “We also might be getting a second under-12 team this [next] year, as well as an under-17 and under-18 team too.” Mr Giatas said he expects the change room to have important use in the next coming years with expected numbers of women and girls playing to increase. “Football Victoria has set a target for 50 per cent participation by 2027, which we are on board with,” he said. “We want to do everything we can to make that happen.” The grant is being funded through the West Gate tunnel project. “We have had great support from the West Gate tunnel team and [Maribyrnong] council,” Mr Giatas said. “It has been a long process but we are very excited for it to happen, and cut the ribbon when it’s done.”

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Celebrating great businesses The best of the local business community was celebrated at the 2023 Hobsons Bay Business Excellence Awards. Seven businesses were recognised at the gala event at Hobsons Bay Civic Centre on Wednesday, October 25. Renew Hair-Hair Salon took out the excellence in customer experience, TreeHaus Williamstown won the ceating social change and diversity award, Gedlec Energy won the excellence in sustainability and circular economy award, Oculus Dexter Optometry won the new-start up business award, A Focused birth won the home-based business award, Treehab Tiny Houses won the excellence in innovation award and Assist Ability Australia Vic won the Mayoral award.

Gedlec Energy.

Renew Hair.

Oculus Dexter Optometry.

TreeHaus Williamstown. (All supplied)

Assist Ability.

TreeHab Tiny Houses.

A Focused Birth.

N I W LY FAMISES PAS

Get ready for the most exciting event of the year. Christmas Under the Big Top is coming to Burnley Oval, Richmond from November 24th to December 24th. With over 2 and a half hours of unlimited festive fun, this extraordinary event has something for everyone!

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Star News has 10 x Family passes to giveaway to readers for the 7pm Friday 24th November performance! You’ll be able to experience the magic of Christmas in our interactive walkthrough under the big top tent, where you can see,hear, touch, and smell all the wonders of the season.

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COMMUNITY

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

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

Beginners Playalong Group The beginners Playalong group welcomes all levels of musicians and instruments and complete novices to their monthly Playalong sessions. If you’re looking for a friendly and inviting way to play and learn then this might be for you. Held on Saturday 18th of November at 6:30pm at the Newport Scout Hall, Market Street, Newport.

Musicians Wanted Do you play woodwind, brass or percussion and are looking for a welcoming place to play enjoyable and challenging music? The Westgate Concert Band is seeking new members. Rehearsals are held Saturdays during school terms, 9am-noon at Braybrook College. ■ westgateconcertband@gmail.com

Williamstown book sale Friends of Williamstown and Newport Libraries hold a book sale every second Saturday of each month 9.30am-12.30pm. The book sale is held in the friends’ room. Cash only sales. ■ libraries.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au

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. Held Mondays during school terms, from 1pm-3pm, at the Altona Library. ■ Joe Pellone, 0431 915 970, or joepellone@gmail.com, or Jill Mackenzie, 0439 994 705, or jill.mackenzie111@ gmail.com

Walking group The Altona Meadows and Newport Heart Foundation Walking Group is a local community of men and women committed to walking and 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 https:// ow.ly/TQ3j50PP1Ap

Computer classes for beginners Computer classes are run on a wide range of times and days, at both Altona North Community Centre, and Joan Kirner House in Williamstown. ■ Lynne, 9397 6168

Free walking group

This week’s photographer’s choice is of Belinda Shipp with her Maine Coon cat Ragnar. (Damjan Janevski) 371357_01

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

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

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

Willin Wimmin choir

West Footscray Rotary

Williamstown-based women’s community choir Willin Wimmin is currently welcoming new members. The group meets each Wednesday evening in school terms in the Church of Christ hall at the corner of John Street and Douglas Parade, Williamstown from 7.30pm-9.30pm. There are no auditions and you don’t need to be able to read music. ■ willin.wimmin@gmail.com

The Rotary Club of West Footscray meets at the Medway Golf Club in Maidstone for lunch, fellowship and guest speakers each Wednesday from 12.30pm- 2pm. ■ Mike 0417 622 372

Palliative volunteers needed

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

A free walking group meets every Wednesday, during school terms, at 10.15am from Joan Kirner House, 14 Thompson Street, Williamstown. ■ Tahlia, 9397 6168

enthusiastic members who want to make a difference in their community. ■ www.rotarypointgellibrand.com.au, Pam, 0418 347 691, or rotarypointgellibrand@ gmail.com

Free community morning tea

Altona Day View Club

Heritage walks

The Altona Day View Club meets on the third Wednesday each month at 11am, at the Altona RSL, 31 Sargood Street, Altona ■ Marion, 9394 6557

Enjoy a leisurely one-and-a-half hour walk around historic Williamstown and nearby suburbs with guide John. Walks start at 9.20 am each Tuesday outside the Visitor Information Centre in Nelson Place. Each week is a different week and a printed sheet with the route and points of interest provided each week. Walks are leisurely and usually end at a cafe for a tea-coffee. ■ John, 0418 377 336

Woodcraving 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

Drop in chess, cards and Scrabble 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 or cherrylakemarket@ gmail.com

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-2.30pm.

A free community meeting tea occurs every Wednesday at 11am in Joan Kirner House foyer, 14 Thompson Street, Williamstown. ■ Tahlia, 9397 6168

Women Talk – Conversational English The Women Talk Group will be held on Mondays at 10am for women to learn and practice speaking English in the classroom and the local area and make new friends in an all-women class. ■ 9391 8504, email outlets@outletsco-op. com.au

Laverton Community Education Centre

Alcoholics Anonymous – Williamstown Regular meetings of Alcoholics Anonymous are held at St Andrew’s Church Hall, Williamstown, Wednesdays at 7pm and Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Newport, Thursdays at 6.30pm and Saturdays at 8.30am. All welcome including friends and family of people with drinking problems. ■ 1300 22 22 22 or www.aatimes.org.au

Laverton Community Education Centre has started free AMEP classes in Williamstown Community Education Centre at the Joan Kirner House, on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 9.30am-3pm. Participants can build English, digital and employability skills with the Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP). ■ 9369 2726

Musicians welcome

Wednesday walking group

Altona Repair Cafe

The Westgate Diabetes Support Group meets on the first Tuesday of every month at the Altona Bowling Club at 10am. ■ Elaine, 0415 030 996

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

The Williamstown Community Centre offers a regular Wednesday walking group that walks the local area, 10.15-11am. New members are welcome. This activity is free and includes morning tea. ■ 9397 6168

The Altona Repair Cafe are looking for more repairers to help meet community demand for repairs at their monthly repair events! We are particularly looking for people with skills in repairing electricals and textiles! Repair cafes happen on the first Saturday of the month, 12-3pm ■ Danielle 0413 434 082

AeroSpeakers Toastmasters Club

Point Gellibrand Rotary 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

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 dinner meeting. The club has some great speakers and needs new, energetic,

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. ■ Janet, 9394 6522 or 0412 010 176

Diabetes support group

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

Social card games Interested in playing social card games? Canasta, poker and other games are played at 43 Mason St, Newport at different times during the day. ■ 9391 8504, email outlets@outletsco-op. com.au

Wednesday, 15 November, 2023 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 15

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

5 6 7 1 3

2 4 6 1

5 3 7 8 8 4

4 9 2 5 1 6 2

8 medium

3 8 2 9 4

7 3 8 7 1 5 9 4 3

13 15 17 19 22 25 26 27 28 29

4 5 4 2 1 9 5

Sandal (5) Study of language history (9) Ugly landmark (7) Modified (7) Linseed, e.g. (7) Swedish scientist, – Swedenborg (7) Instrument (9) Ready money (4) Rodents (4) Cooking appliance (9) Disheveled (7) Support (7) Light through clouds (7) Mythical one-horned beast (7) Bursar (9) Go into (5)

1 4 9 10 11 12

No. 159

Food shopping items (9) Fake name (9) Angry (5) Japanese seaport (5) Products of a calculator (7) Sings like the Swiss (6) The British Treasury (9) Heaven (5,4) Behaviour (8) Sideways look (7) Plane hub (7) End of day (6) Confronts (5) Stopwatch (5)

3 4 5 6 7 8 14 15 16 18 20 21 23 24

ACROSS

easy

QUICK CROSSWORD

DOWN Abstaining from liquor (8) Partly correspond with (7)

1 2

DECODER

No. 159

5 3 7

8 7 3 5

7 5 4 8 9

8 hard

8 9 4

9 4

6 3 7 4 8

3 7

10 11 12 13

14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26

2 X CMPWS VN T Y AQ L 22

Today’s Aim: 22 words: Good 33 words: Very good

V A

No. 159

7 5 , 3 (

ASSET AVERT AWARE BOGAN CALVE CEDED COVET EJECT ELECT ERRED FRAME GARBS GENRE JETTY MATES MEANS MERGE NAIVE NAVAL NEEDS

4 LETTERS ARES DAMN DESK NAPS NETS POTS SHUT SOAP STEW TROD 5 LETTERS ALPHA ALTOS APRIL ARGUE ARISE ASIDE

OLIVE PAGES PANIC PASTA PASTS PEACE POSES RILES ROUTE RURAL SALTS SEEDS SLEDS SMELL SPELL SPEWS STEEL TIDAL TRIPE UNITE

USERS VISES

PROCURE SENSUAL TREMBLE

6 LETTERS BAMBOO BASEST FRUGAL JALOPY MYOPIC NOISES 7 LETTERS DISTORT ENZYMES NEUTRAL

8 LETTERS DICTATED DISTRICT ELICITED OVERHEAD 10 LETTERS NUTRIMENTS SALUTATION

adverse, advert, aver, averred, avers, averse, avert, averted, averts, evade, evades, ever, rave, raved, raver, raves, reave, reaves, revert, reverts, revest, revs, save, saved, saver, serve, served, server, sever, starve, starved, stave, staved, traverse, TRAVERSED, vase, vast, vaster, veer, veers, verse, versed, vest, vested, vets

17-11-23

No. 159 Insert the missing letters to make 10 words – five reading across the grid and five reading down.

QUICK QUIZ

Which ancient civilisation built Machu Picchu?

What is the sum of all the numbers on a roulette wheel?

What is the name of the plant found in rainforests that is used to make chocolate?

The process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy is called what?

Which famous pop star has a younger sister named Solange (pictured), who is also a successful musician?

What is the first name of Pride and Prejudice character Mr. Darcy?

In what year did the Berlin Wall come down?

NOTE: more than one solution may be possible

O R T

3 8 7 5 1 9 2 6 4 9 2 6 8 4 7 3 5 1 4 5 1 3 6 2 7 9 8 1 9 2 6 7 3 4 8 5 6 7 5 4 8 1 9 3 2 8 3 4 9 2 5 1 7 6 2 1 8 7 3 6 5 4 9 5 4 3 1 9 8 6 2 7 7 6 9 2 5 4 8 1 3

E N D

16 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 15 November, 2023

H O A L E D G E L D E N

S L O

3 8 1 9 2 5 6 7 4 6 2 5 4 7 8 1 3 9 9 7 4 6 3 1 8 2 5 1 9 6 2 5 7 4 8 3 4 3 7 8 1 9 2 5 6 2 5 8 3 4 6 7 9 1 8 6 3 7 9 4 5 1 2 5 4 2 1 8 3 9 6 7 7 1 9 5 6 2 3 4 8

2 4 9 1 5 3 7 8 6 7 5 6 8 2 9 4 1 3 1 3 8 7 6 4 5 2 9 8 7 1 3 9 6 2 4 5 5 9 2 4 1 8 6 3 7 4 6 3 2 7 5 8 9 1 9 1 4 6 8 7 3 5 2 3 2 7 5 4 1 9 6 8 6 8 5 9 3 2 1 7 4

D R

L G

O E

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”.

Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

5x5

9-LETTER WORD

45 words: Excellent

hard

medium

easy

R OE G F Z J I HK U B D

9 7

3 LETTERS AIM ARC BUD EAR EBB ERR EVE ION JAM KEG ORE OWE PEA RUN SAP SEA SEC THE TIP TOW WEB ZOO

3 4 2 8 6 3 9 6 2

Q L

WORDFIT

How many planets are there in our solar system?

What is the largest part of the brain called?

10 Which company developed the widely used web browser called Chrome? ANSWERS: 1. The Inca Empire 2. 666 3. Photosynthesis 4. Fitzwilliam 5. Eight 6. Cerebrum 7. Cacao plant 8. Beyoncé 9. 1989 10. Google

No. 159

3 $ 6 7 $ & ( ' ( ' ) 5 $ 0 ( $ / 7 2 6 2 / , 9 ( 5 8 5 $ / 9 , 6 ( 6 8 1 , 7 ( 6 3 ( : 6 7 + ( ( - ( & 7 . ( * 6 ( & 6 $ / 8 7 $ 7 , 2 1 % $ 6 ( 6 7 6 0 7 5 ( 0 % / ( 3 $ * ( 6 - ( 7 7 < $ 5 ( 6 2 9 ( 5 + ( $ ' 6 2 $ 3 2 5 ( 6 ( 1 6 8 $ / 3 5 2 & 8 5 ( 7 5 2 ' ' , & 7 $ 7 ( ' ( 5 5 6 7 ( : 3 $ 1 , & 6 / ( ' 6 ( 1 = < 0 ( 6 7 9 % $ 0 % 2 2 1 8 7 5 , 0 ( 1 7 6 2: ( , 2 1 7 5 , 3 ( $ , 0 * $ 5 % 6 $ 3 5 , / $ 6 , ' ( 3 ( $ & ( 1 $ 9 $ / $ 5 * 8 ( 1 ( ( ' 6 6 $ / 7 6 6 3 ( / /

SUDOKU

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• Blocked Drains • Drain Camera • Burst Pipes • Hot Water Services • Roof Repairs • Gas Servicing

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12490425-AV15-21

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V Reblocking/Underpinning MEMBER OF MASTER BUILDERS ASSOCIATION

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V Heating

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seaview

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18 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 15 November, 2023

The longer you advertise the cheaper your ad!

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AMAZING GARDEN SERVICES 12416265-CG17-19

"We do all the small jobs that the bigger companies don't have time for" Up to 60 square metres Shed floors, paths, driveways etc. Coloured, plain, slate and stencil. FREE MEASURE & QUOTE Workmanship guaranteed, with over 30 years experience

฀ ฀

17 Years Guarantee 10% Pensioner Discount Council Permit Supplied Computer Levelling

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David: 0425 811 882 Ash: 0403 619 333

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A & R Affordable Painter

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ABN 44 021 708 152 Tel: 9309 2351 CDB-L 60362

V Painters/Decorators

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SAIDA’S PAINTING

12402755-RA44-18

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Rec 25789

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V Electricians

G6254323AA-dc28Aug

· Plumbing · Tiling · Electrical · Carpentry · Plastering · One stop shop - Kitchen, bathroom, laundries & renovation needs. · Complete service from start to ﬁnish, including kitchen 3D design. · Appliance packages available. · Bathroom tapware, accessories & tiles on display in our showroom.

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SPORTS QUIZ 1. Taking a ‘mulligan’ is a term used in which sport? 2. Which ESPN program is dedicated to the most obscure sports in the world? 3. Who coaches the Matildas? 4. Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk will battle for what title in 2024?

5. Australian Flame is the national team name for what sport?

13. Which horse won the Melbourne Cup in 2022?

6. Which cricketer recently left the World Cup early to return home to Australia?

14. Which Aussie NBA star was recently given the nickname ‘SLOB wizard’ (for SideLine Out of Bounds) by fans?

7. True or False: the Boxing Day Test is always played against England? 8. The Amazon Prime TV series A League of Their Own is about women playing which sport during WWII?

Michael Jordan

15. If a boxer is a ‘southpaw’ fighter, what trait do they have? 16. Which US actor plays Billy Hope in the 2015 boxing film Southpaw?

9. The Australian ice hockey league starts again in which month of 2024?

17. Melbourne star Clayton Oliver has won how many best and fairest titles to date?

10. The Taika Waititi movie Next Goal Wins is about which country’s national soccer team?

18. Which country will host the 2034 Men’s FIFA World Cup after being the sole bidder?

11. Which Major League Baseball team recently ended a 63-year drought after winning their first ever World Series?

19. What is the unofficial nickname for the Australian Women’s Volleyball team?

Mary Fowler

12. Matildas player Mary Fowler is from which Australian state?

26. And which jockey rode the winner of the 2023 Melbourne Cup?

21. What score did Glenn Maxwell make versus Afghanistan at the 2023 Men’s Cricket World Cup? 22. Which MLB team did the Texas Rangers defeat 4-1 to win the 2023 World Series? 23. Which former Los Angeles Dodger was awarded MVP of the 2023 World Series?

28. The final of the NBA InSeason Tournament is to be held in which US city? 29. Which EPL team defeated Tottenham 4-1 to give Ange Postecoglou his first loss as their manager?

24. Which team finished at the bottom of the 2023 AFLW ladder?

20. In 2020, which stadium hosted the AFL Grand Final for the first time in history?

27. Michael Jordan’s son is in a relationship with the exwife of which of Jordan’s former team mates?

30. Retiring champion jockey Damien Oliver won how many Melbourne Cups?

25. Which horse won the 2023 Melbourne Cup?

1. Golf 2. The Ocho 3. Tony Gustavsson 4. World Heavyweight Champion 5. Athletics 6. Mitchell Marsh 7. False 8. Baseball 9. April 10. American Samoa 11. The Texas Rangers 12. Queensland 13. Gold Trip 14. Josh Giddey 15. They are left-handed 16. Jake Gyllenhaal 17. Four 18. Saudi Arabia 19. Volleyroos 20. The Gabba 21. 201 not out 22. Arizona Diamondbacks 23. Corey Seager 24. Western Bulldogs 25. Without A Fight 26. Mark Zahra 27. Scottie Pippen 28. Las Vegas 29. Chelsea 30. Three (Doriemus 1995, Media Puzzle 2002, Fiorente 2013)

1711

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Pets & Services

ADVERTISERS PLEASE NOTE Anyone advertising a puppy, dog, kitten or cat in Victoria for sale or re-homing will need a source number from the Pet Exchange Register and a microchip identiﬁcation number. It is now an offence to advertise unless the source number and microchip identiﬁcation number is included in the advertisement or notice. For further information, call 136 186 or visit animalwelfare.vic.gov.au

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ADVERTISERS, in this section are qualified practitioners and offer nonsexual services.

Wanted

60's, 70's, 80's and jazz records. Will come to your place. Good prices. No classical. Ring Len 0490 098 805 or 0434 253 428.

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ANY TREES LOPPED Trees Pruned Reshaped Grubbed out. All Foliage/Rubbish Removed Fully Insured $10m Pensioner Discount

PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE VODAFONE AND OPTUS MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION AT 124-134 MILLERS ROAD, ALTONA NORTH, VIC 3025 INCLUDING 5G 1. The proposed upgrade to the existing facility includes: • Removal of existing Vodafone & Optus equipment. • Replacement and reconfiguration of three (3) existing Vodafone and three (3) existing Optus panel antennas (six (6) in total), with new panels not more than 2.8m in length onto new mounts attached to existing steel mast. • Installation of three (3) Vodafone and six (6) Optus (nine (9) in total) new 5G panel antennas, each approximately 0.8m in length, on new mounts attached to existing steel mast. • Installation of new ancillary equipment, including but not limited to twenty-one (21) new Remote Radio Units (RRU) installed on new RRU Headframe, Mast Head Amplifiers (MHA), combiners, breakout boxes, filters, cabling, cable trays, mounts, steelwork, GPS antennas and other items associated with the safety and operation of the facility. • Reconfiguration of existing and installation of new equipment within the existing equipment shelter including upgrade to existing power supply to facility. 2. Vodafone and Optus regards the proposed installation as a Low-impact Facility under the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 2018 (“The Determination”) based on the description above. 3.In accordance with Section 7 of C564:2020 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment Code, we invite you to provide feedback about the proposal. Further information and/or comments should be directed to: Abhishek Gampala at Nokia Solutions & Networks on 0413 809 856 or at communityrelations.vha@groups.nokia.com by COB 29th November 2023. Further information may be obtained from the RFNSA website at www.rfnsa.com.au/3025003

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

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CLEANER WANTED: Point Cook (opposite Sanctuary lakes) approximately 2-3 hours per week same day. Domestic general small house, 2 people live here. Normal house cleaning. Ph Robyn; 0415 362 443.

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0435 904 818 Wednesday, 15 November, 2023 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 19

MOTOR STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

In Essence, more staying power By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring Car companies continue to make strides in the electrification of their vehicles. One manufacturer to step up its power play is MG Motors (for Morris Garages), the Chinese owned former British auto industry mainstay. Already the fully electric compact sports utility vehicle has made its presence felt on the EV world with the Excite and Essence models, the latter chipping in with a claimed maximum range of 320 kilometres. Now this has been stretched to 440 kilometres with a new variant, loosely tagged Long Range, with the added plus over the Essence of a privacy rear window helping to maximise climate control, hence the comfort of occupants. The 440km driving range comes from the switch to a 72.6 kWh battery, as opposed to the 320km courtesy of the lithium-ion 51.1 kWh battery. The entry-level Excite has a comprehensive collection of features, including a range of drive modes, three regen braking modes, 360 degree camera i-Smart connectivity, satellite navigation, plus MG Pilot driver safety technology. Upshift to the Essence brings to the table panoramic glass sunroof and roof rails, wireless phone charging and blind spot and rear-cross traffic alert. A shopping list of accessories includes fabric boot mat and liner, boot lip protector and skid plate, chrome boot trim strip, dash mat, fabric or rubber floor mats, weather to four doors, printed bonnet protector, clear bonnet protector, LED scuff Plates and two door sills, towbar, roof racks, 7 kW Go Cable 22 kW rapid charge cable. The Chinese sourced small SUV made a name as the cheapest electric vehicle on the market. Now, along comes a ZS with more mileage to offer - at a price ($11,000 to be precise). Introduction to the new ZS electric vehicles comes with the entry-level Excite selling for $46,195, plus on-road costs, the mid-range Essence follows for a further $3000, while the Essence Long Range tops off the trio for $55,990. The ZS Essence Long Range, the test vehicle, carries a seven-year unlimited kilometre warranty, as does the battery. MG’s so-called Precise Price Servicing also applies. STYLING No-cost paint colours are Dover White or Pebble Black, while the Brighton Blue Essence Long Range on test would set back a buyer an extra $700. All the MG EVs maintain the general shape of the petrol models with the upper radiator grille replaced by a solid surface incorporating a flap offering easy access to the charging point. Headlamps and LED daytime running lights flank the front directly under the bonnet edge.

The MG ZS has stepped up its bid to stay in front of rivals in the EV SUV segment. (pictures supplied)

Propeller-style alloy wheel aero covers give the wheels a unique character. INTERIOR Leatherette seats, driver and front passenger positions heated, with crafted red stitching, lead the way for a premium interior feel, topped off (literally) with a truly panoramic sunroof flooding the interior with natural light. In the rear, the 60/40 split reclining seats are surprisingly generous with leg room and give access to 359 litres of luggage space, while an under-boot cubby is reserved to take tyre repair kit and battery rapid charging tackle. INFOTAINMENT The ZS EV features a 10.1-inch colour touchscreen with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto access, allowing for integration with personal tech. However, the somewhat higgledy-piggledy layout of the info makes management fiddly, especially on the move. Presentation of real-time vehicle performance comes with an upgraded 7-inch digital instrument cluster in direct driver field of vision. Keyless entry, wireless phone charger and six-speaker audio add to the in-cabin experience. A signature addition to the new ZS EV is the iSMART app, allowing you to monitor and control vehicle functions remotely. For example, locate the vehicle, lock or unlock it, monitor vehicle status such as range and charge remaining. ENGINES/TRANSMISSIONS With 440km driving range from a 72.6 kWh

20 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 15 November, 2023

battery, the new MG ZS Long Range leaves its predecessor (320km of range from the lithium-ion 51.1 kWh battery) behind. That’s not all. In an MG first, powering external devices can be done using the ZS EV vehicle-to-load (V2L) function. Electronics can be operated on the go, or appliances such as camping gear powered using electricity stored in the lithium ion battery of an MG ZS EV. SAFETY The former MG ZS EV was awarded a five-star ANCAP safety rating in 2019. The hallmark MG Pilot package has added adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist with departure warning, traffic jam assist, intelligent cruise assist, intelligent headlamp control, speed assistance system, blind spot detection, rear cross traffic alert. DRIVING Powered by a liquid-cooled, lithium battery, with up to 72.6 kWh, delivering 280 Nm of instant torque and up to 130 kW of power, the maker claims the ZS Essence Long Range can go from zero to 100 km/h in 8.2 seconds. All this with nothing but a gentle whirring of the motor. Maximum combined energy consumption on the test touched 18 kWh per 100 kilometres. Fill her up? I topped up the ‘tank’ on a public fast charger from 60 to 80 per cent in 40 minutes at a cost of $6.83. Designed to achieve optimum handling and chassis feel, the ZS EV’s powertrain has

been packaged to achieve a low centre of gravity. Housed underneath the passenger compartment as part of the ZS EV’s flat-floor architecture, and an added bonus for occupant leg comfort, the balanced distribution of weight keeps the ZS EV planted through the corners. The suspension appears a little firm. Braking response is good, although regenerative braking is not like some EVs with ‘single pedal’ driving. This one slows the vehicle only to a crawl, not to a halt. With the MG Pilot willing to assist safe driving to a high level, the lane keep assist with departure warning tended to intrude too quickly and forcefully. Driving is a human activity, after all. SUMMARY MG has pushed out the kilometres for its small SUV EV, but is it enough for the market? Meanwhile, the journey is set to continue even further – longer range, more technology, for fewer dollars, with MG4 rear-wheel drive hatch, which is due to arrive in the second half of this year. RATINGS n Looks: 7/10 n Performance: 7/10 n Safety: 5/10 n Thirst: 8/10 n Practicality: 5/10 n Comfort: 6/10 n Tech: 8/10 n Value: 5/10

SPORT Seagulls finally fire for good win By Tara Murray Williamstown got the win it was after in the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association north-west, to get back on even par. The Seagulls haven’t had the best start to the season, having started 1-2 and having only just got across the line in the match they had won. On Saturday, the Seagulls had their most complete performance of the season so far to beat local rival Yarraville convincingly. Seagulls secretary Jordan Doyle said it was a much needed win for the side. “We were desperate and needed a win being 1-2,” he said. “We had a couple come back in and it was a good win against Yarraville, which is a local rival. “We’re now back to 2-2 and it kicks start our season.” The Eagles were bowled out for 158 in the last over after deciding to bat. Brad Jones top scored with 40 at the top of

Matthew Dervan. 372633_04 (Jacob Pattison)

the order. Zac Thorne took 4-26 for the Seagulls as eight players got a bowl. Doyle said on their ground that target was never going to be enough. “The wicket is good at home and is quick, so par is 220,” he said. “They looked like getting that at one stage as they were 0-70. “Zac Thorne came on and got a hat-trick and that always helps.” All the Seagulls top order got starts as they

made the runs with ease, finishing 3-161 in the 33 over. Matthew Dervan top scored with 46 in his first game for the season. The Seagulls sit in sixth spot and Eagles in eighth after four rounds. Doyle said they again expected to be among the contenders this season and challenge for the top six. The side was knocked out of finals in straight set last season and have added some more depth to the group as it looks to go deeper into the season. “Matt Twentyman has come back into the set up and Zac Thorne was a late recruit,” he said. “Matt Dervan played his first game on Saturday and we still have a few more to come back into the side, which will help. There’s another round of one-dayers this Saturday. In other matches on Saturday, Spotswood lost its first match of the season to St Bernards

OC. It was a tough day for the Woodsmen with both the bat and ball. After being sent in, the Snowdogs made 6-249 from their overs. Dan Schuppan and Jarrod Martignago took two wickets each. The Woodsmen were in trouble with the bat early, losing two early wickets. They steadied, but four quick wickets had the side in trouble at 6-86. The Woodsmen tail failed to fire with the side bowled out for 127 in the 37th over. Ross Horkings top scored with 38 not out. The Woodsmen sit in fifth spot. Altona got its second win of the season, beating Plenty Valley. The Bats made 7-229 from their overs with Javed Bolim top scored with 62. Daniel Mackenzie took three wickets for the A’s. The A’s had a number of contributors with the bat on the way to making 6-232, hitting the winning runs with nine balls remaining. Mackenzie top scored with 51.

Coach returns

Syed Ali Hussain. 323442_05 (Ivan Kemp)

Bulldogs must bowl well for victory Footscray United is hoping for a good bowling performance this Saturday as it searches for its first win of the Victorian Turf Cricket Association division 1 season. Having struggled since coming up to division 1, the Bulldogs face Airport West St Christophers in a two-day clash at Etzel Reserve. Airport West won the toss and its seemed a good decision early on with the Bulldogs 1-10 after 10 overs. However, Bulldogs number three Praveen Fernando got the innings back on track, notching up a well made 100, helping his side make 241 off 74 overs. Bulldogs playing coach Syed Ali Hussain said while it is a healthy total, he felt like his side left runs out in the middle with strong batting depth throughout the whole line up. “We’re not completely satisfied with the

runs on the board at this stage,” he said. “I think we are 40 or 25 runs short on that deck but I’m okay with that because we have a very strong bowling line up. “We’re happy to manage this total into victory. “Praveen [Fernando] is a great asset for the club, and he’s been playing for many years here, he’s a former first class player in Sri Lanka. “He’s made so many runs and has made so many valuable contributions and he’s a great off spinner too. “I was not expecting [our lower order to collapse] because we have a very strong batting line-up. The last man who was batting, Frank [Hoang], he was an opening batsman in our team.” Although the Bulldogs are still on the search for their first win of the season, Hussain said it has been a positive start to the year.

“We have a new team and we also have a young captain,” he said. “There’s no doubt that we’re going to bounce back and this is a great opportunity in this coming week to turn the results in our favour.” To get the win, Hussain said his bowlers will throw a range of tricks at Airport West. Airport West will resume on 0-6 having faced two overs late on day one. “It’s going to be a mix and match,” he said. “This deck is not suitable for anybody, it’s a slow deck, so it could be both spin and seam. “We have a good pace bowler like Nimesh [Bhagya Kariyawasam Maddumage], he has a strong repeatable action and bowls very well on flat decks. “We’re going to have to bowl hard, bowl with intensity and bowl in the right areas to get the wickets.” Harper Sercombe

Altona Magic has announced that Goran Lozanovski is returning to the club as National Premier League coach for the 2024 season. The Magic originally announced that former Newcastle Jets coach Scott Miller was going to coach the side next year, but the club announced three days later that “rapidly changing personal circumstances” meant he wouldn’t take on the role. The club then turned to its former mentor to return back to the club. Lozanovski has a long history in the game, playing at the highest level in in Australia representing Australia at under-20, under-23 and senior level as a Socceroo. Lozanovski has coached through all levels of Victorian soccer, including overseeing Altona Magic’s promotion back to National Premier League 1. He spent four years at the Magic in his first stint before coaching at Westgate, Hume City and most recently Sydenham Park. Sydenham Park finished second in FV state league 1 north-west in Lozanovski’s only season at the club. “It is great to be back at my home club, and it felt exciting to be walking back through the front gate,” he said via the Magic’s Facebook page. “I have some unfinished business at Magic and I have already hit the ground running in preparation for 2024. I am excited and proud to be back at Magic.” The club said it is looking forward to working with Lozanovski in strengthening its team and continuing its recent successes. The Magic secured a finals berth for the first time in its history in the NPL this season which was a momentous occasion for the club, under coach John Markovski. The Magic faced 2022 premiers the Oakleigh Cannons in the first week of finals and was defeated.

Goran Lozanovski. (Shawn Smits)

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Bulldogs facing big total to chase Footscray is on the back foot in their Victorian Premier Cricket two-day clash against Northcote. The Bulldogs lost the toss and were sent to the field on Saturday and stuck immediately when Jermaine Levy got Elliot Brandon-Jones on the fifth ball of the innings. However, it was tough going from there with the other opening batsman Jonty Rushton making 126, helping the Dragons to 6-358 at the conclusion of their 90 overs. First-year captain Dylan Brasher said he was a bit disappointed with the result. “We gained a little bit of momentum against the Bombers [Essendon] last week and we did really well against them,” he said. “Northcote had some struggles earlier in the year so we were full of confidence. “It was a bit disappointing on the weekend, we probably didn’t quite bowl enough good balls in the right areas and they had a few batters get away, so it was just one of those days. “The wicket looked pretty good in the

morning, our curator does a pretty good job there, and he said it was pretty good and looked pretty hard and fast, we probably would have looked to have a bat as well. “We played pretty well in the game before and a few batters got a bit of confidence, we were looking to get on the front foot and we couldn’t quite do that and they got away from us a little bit.” The Bulldogs also welcomed a new arrival to their club this week with Max Hatzoglou putting on the keeping gloves as long-time keeper Dylan Kight welcomed a new arrival of his own. “We had a few conversations with him [Hatzoglou] earlier in the preseason about coming over and I don’t think he was quite getting the opportunities at Melbourne Uni that he was after,” Brasher said. “We needed a keeper and Dylan Kight missed a few games which was unfortunate for us but good for him with the arrival of a newborn. “He [Hatzoglou] fit the mould for this game

and hopefully he can do pretty well for the rest of the year. “His first night of training was last Thursday night, so he hasn’t had too much time to adjust but in weird circumstances was picked in his first game which is exciting because he’s obviously a very good player.” As the Bulldogs chase down the big total ahead of them, Brasher is hoping their youth can prevail. “I think our batters will have the confidence after the last game,” he said. “Our middle order is pretty young, we have a few guys who are 17, 18 batting in the middle order. “We lost a lot of experience at the end of last year and it’s pretty hard to replace that overnight. “It’s a pretty big total but someone will have to get in and get a big score but we’ll see how we go.” Harper Sercombe

Umair Butt (Jacob Pattison) 321156_02

Sports shorts Netball Teams are still being sought for a new under-19 netball competition. The competition is being run by the Altona Netball Association and Waverley Netball Centre after the decision to cut the under-19 Victorian Netball League program. The competition is still seeking a couple more teams for the western division, which includes teams from the City West Falcons and Darley Football Netball Club. Applications close later this year.

WRFL Matthew Condo has signed to Braybrook for next year’s Western Region Football League season. Making his way from Essendon District Football League premier division club Greenvale, Condo is a 26 year-old, 186 centimetre utility with great skills, and can play anywhere and will run all day. “Braybrook is a club with such a rich history, I can’t wait to be a part of it and hopefully add a few more premierships,” Condo said.

FV Shimona Nelson has signed with the City West Falcons. (AAP Image/Joel Carrett)

Nelson joins the Falcons By Tara Murray Jamaican international Shimona Nelson is set to take to the court for the reigning Victorian Netball League premiers, the City West Falcons, next year. Nelson, who has been plying her trade with the Collingwood Magpies in the Suncorp Super Netball competition the past few seasons, currently doesn’t have a spot for next year. While players can’t officially sign contracts at this stage, teams have come to agreements with players and Nelson is without a home in Australia’s top competition. Falcons coach Marg Lind said they wanted to give Nelson the opportunity to enjoy her netball and help her further develop her game. Lind said there was still a possibility of Nelson getting a contract or training partner role with a Super Netball team, but they were thrilled to welcome her to the club. “She’s close with Maggie [Lind] from their time at Magpies and Maggie has been really supportive of her,” Lind said. “She’s not sure what is happening with Super Netball, so we offered her a place to play and keep training and she was in.

“I still think she’ll get a game somewhere.” The addition of Falcons gives them four strong goaling options. Jane Cook, Uneeq Palavi and Maddie Gray are all returning next season. Lind said on paper it looked like a dominant shooting circle and would help when Palavi is on national duty with Tonga. “It’s great for the club,” Lind said. “Everyone is happy to have her [Nelson] on board and she brings a lot to the club and is really supportive of the younger players. “She wants to develop a bit more in goal attack and have a bit more movement and shooting range instead of being just a post up goaler.” Lind said Nelson was really happy so far at the Falcons and felt like she could come in and make mistakes and feel like she can develop more. She said Nelson had been really open with them and had showed a bit of courage with her netball career in limbo. The addition of Nelson is one of a few changes for the Falcons, with the VNL competition changing to two division instead of three. Defenders Zoe Davies and Sienna Allen have both departed the club.

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Davies has headed to England after picking up a Netball Super League contract, while Allen has moved home to focus a bit more on her career. Molly Kennedy, who was part of the championship premiership team, hasn’t re-signed at this stage, unsure what her plans are. Premiership player, Mel Oloamanu, who missed last season with a knee injury, returns to the squad Sussu Liai joins the club from the Peninsula Waves, while Chelsea Imanisani comes up from division 1. They have also signed some new faces for the new under-23 team. The Falcons have lost three players from their division 1 and under-19 teams to the new Bendigo team, while they’ve lost Kiralee Collings to the Western Warriors and Charli Nichol to the Geelong Cougars. Lind said it was disappointing to lose those players who’ve they’ve put a lot of time into, but she gets players are looking for more opportunities. With only two teams in the VNL competition, Lind said they would look to run bigger squads than they normally would.

Altona East Phoenix has signed experienced defender Ryan Love for the 2024 FV men’s state league north-west 2 season. Love joins the club from National Premier League 2 outfit Manningham United where he captained the side to NPL 1 promotion for the first time in the club’s history. Earlier in his career, Love also played in the NPL for Whittlesea Ranges and Kingston City in which he also captained the side to a championship. Via social media the club said Love is a true leader on and off the park. “We look forward to not only seeing Ryan on the pitch, but all the amazing things he will bring to the club off it,” it said.

Western United Western United striker Noah Botic will head to Saudi Arabia next week as the Olyroos prepare to take part in a pair of international friendlies. The fixtures, scheduled for Friday, November 17 against Qatar and Tuesday, November 21 against Saudi Arabia, will be played at Prince Saud Bin Jalawi Stadium. FOR MORE SPORT, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Maribyrnong & Hobsons Bay Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

SPORT McDonald back to the big-time Williamstown key defender Oscar McDonald will be hoping it’s third time lucky with his AFL career. McDonald was signed by Fremantle on the opening day of the AFL’s delisted free agency period. The 27-year-old spent the 2023 season with the Victorian Football League club and was named at full back in the VFL team of the year. The former Melbourne and Carlton back will to Western Australia after signing a two-year deal. McDonald played 81 AFL games with Melbourne and five games with Carlton between 2015 and 2022. His time at the Blues was hampered by a back injury and he was delisted at the end of 2022. “It’s really exciting, I’ve always wanted to get back into the AFL system,” McDonald told his new club via video. “I spent a year at Williamstown in the VFL

and had a really enjoyable time there, but the main goal was to get back into the AFL and to have an opportunity to do that by the Fremantle footy club is a great honour and I’m really privileged. “I had a fantastic time, obviously VFL is part-time and Williamstown was really flexible with work and different people’s commitments and the coaching staff led by Justin Plapp and Jeff Andrews, CEO [chief executive] Ash Baker, they set up an unbelievable program to allow people to play well individually but play well as a team, so I really liked it. “Obviously, it was different coming from an AFL lifestyle into the VFL with work and then going to training at night.” During his time at the Blues, McDonald dealt with injury, however he said following an uninterrupted VFL season, he is feeling ready to go. “I had a bit of a troubled run with the back injury over the last two years, I had a stress

fracture in my lower back which sort of went on for a year, year-and-a-half, I had pretty invasive surgery to fix that up, that combined with different training methods, I was able to get on the park and play 20 games,” he said. Being an intercepting key-defender, McDonald is reliant on his team’s defence, where he will be supported alongside experienced defenders at the Dockers such as Alex Pearce, Luke Ryan and Brennan Cox. “I like to play in a good system where it’s not just one vs one, we work together as a team as a back six and a full 18 team,” he said. “Being a defender for most of my career I’m very defensive focused, like to win my one on one battles and read the play from that and help my teammates where I can. “[Fremantle] already has a world of talent in the team, and hopefully I can just add a small part to that, but watching from afar, I like to watch a bit of football and too see those guys go to work. Oscar McDonald. (Martin Keep/Williamstown FC)

Legend leaves the field By Harper Sercombe Victorian Football League games record holder Ben Jolley has called time on his playing days in the league. Jolley, played a record breaking 306 games and kicked 82 goals in his illustrious VFL career, including a club record of 217 games at the Seagulls. Captain of the Calder Cannons 2004 premiership team and the 2004 under-18 Vic Metro team, Jolley was rookie listed by Essendon in 2005 and played four AFL games in 2006. He then went on to play with the Bendigo Bombers before crossing to Williamstown in 2008, captaining the club from 2012 to 2017. In his eleven seasons at Williamstown, Jolley has won the Gerry Callahan Medal, the club’s best and fairest award, a record-equalling four times, and captained the Seagulls’ stand-alone 2015 premiership team. The Ron James Memorial Trophy, voted on by the playing group each year for the player they feel shows respect, professionalism and sacrifices a player makes for the team, was presented to Jolley for the ninth time, and eighth consecutive year, in 2017. Jolley has been named in the VFL team of the year on seven consecutive occasions, twice represented the Victorian state team, and is a life member of both Williamstown and the VFL. After departing the Seagulls after the 2018 season, Jolley spent time at Port Melbourne and Essendon, before returning to Williamstown’s this year. For someone with the accolades Jolley has, walking away from it all would seem to be a hard decision, however, he said after 18 years the timing felt right. “The outcome that was reached all happened fairly organically,” he said. “The end of the season came around, that inner drive to get things going and started for another season of footy wasn’t quite there and when that was the case the decision was kind of made.” Of all the accolades and accomplishments that Jolley has achieved over his career, he said being a premiership captain at the Seagulls has been the “crowning jewel” on his resume. “I can’t deviate away from that event,” he said. “But of course, from a longevity perspective, the milestones that were ticked off this year, to be able to share them with family, current teammates, was amazing. But a whole lot of ex-teammates as well, that made those couple

Ben Jolley (Jacob Pattison) 338076_02

of days really memorable and special.” Another memorable event that occurred this season was the return of finals football to Williamstown’s home ground, which is something that Jolley said he was proud of being a part of. “As time passes if anyone will remember Ben Jolley as a footballer, they’re going to remember him, I’m assuming, in a Williamstown football jumper,” he said. “So to come full circle, to play in the previous final that we had in Williamstown, it was really nice.” Now, in life post-football Jolley is hoping to have some separation from the industry and spend some extra time at home with his family. “I’m very much looking forward to the next four months, having a bit more time available

for the girls at home and Jane,” he said. “I’m looking forward to a bit of extra spare time and seeing what that actually involves, I don’t think coaching is going to be the pathway that I’ll be heading down. “A little bit of a break is really at the forefront of my thinking at the moment.” While the Seagulls will be without their star midfielder next season, Jolley said he is bullish on their premiership aspirations, which he is keen on watching from afar. “There can’t be anything but those expectations placed on the playing group and footy club,” he said. “All things being equal in terms of the improvement in the side and the competition as a whole, the club should certainly be putting their expectations of going at least a step better than what they did this year.”

Win for Rams, Wolves lose It was mixed results for the Newport Rams and Williamstown Wolves in the Baseball Victoria summer league premier firsts competition on Sunday. The Rams faced Doncaster as they looked to even the ledger after the first six rounds, in their first season back in the top flight after winning the division 2 title last season. The Rams were able to do enough to get the win 3-1 and sit sixth on the table. The Wolves, who had won two matches heading into the weekend’s matches, faced a tough task against Berwick.. The Wolves stuck with the higher ranked team throughout the match, but fell short, losing 1-0. One of the stars for the Wolves in the loss was Brayden Bebee who pitched in his first outing for the Wolves. He pitched an impressive six innings for 11 strike outs The Wolves, who are also in their first season back up in the top flight, sit 14th on the ladder with two wins after the first six rounds. Both sides were in action on Tuesday night, after deadline, as the midweek games commenced. Teams will play two games a week for most of the rest of the year. Williamstown was due to face Moorabbin and Newport was set to face Sandringham. In the metro major men’s 1 competition, Footscray had a 0-0 draw with Waverley on Sunday. Footscray remains on top of the ladder despite the result, with five wins and draw so far. In the premier firsts women’s competition, Footscray and Newport both suffered losses. Footscray pushed Essendon all the way, but fell short losing 7-6, while Newport lost to Springvale, 5-1. After five rounds, Newport sits in third spot with two wins in their first season in the top flight, while Footscray is bottom with just one win. Newport faces Doncaster this week and Footscray has a bye.

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