Star Weekly - Wyndham - 14th February 2024 by Star Weekly

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14 FEBRUARY, 2024

David Hanley tried to buy a burial plot at Werribee Cemetery last year but was told it was full. (Damjan Janevski) 388107_01

No space left for burials By Cade Lucas While thousands of new residents continue to move to Wyndham, many who die in the municipality are currently having to leave. Werribee Cemetery, the only burial space in Australia’s fastest growing council area, is full. A lack of space has meant that only those with existing plot reservations can be buried there, with above ground burials and cremations also still available. Wyndham residents seeking a burial plot are being forced to use Altona, Melton or Keilor cemeteries, meaning many cannot be buried alongside family members in the place where they live. Among them is Mambourin man, David

Hanley, who has generations of family members buried at Werribee Cemetery. “Oh a bloody few,” was his best guess when asked how many. “The last ones we buried there were mum and dad a couple of years ago. There was wind then that the cemetery was becoming quite full.” Those rumours were confirmed for Mr Hanley last year when he applied to the Greater Metropolitan Cemeteries Trust (GMCT) that manages Werribee Cemetery to try to secure his own burial plot there. “I made contact with them (GMCT) mid last year but they never replied to me,” he said. “I’ve been trying to chase it up and I’ve made contact with the cemetery trust, and they’ve confirmed that there’s definitely no

plots available. The nearest place you can get buried through them is Altona or Keilor.” Mr Hanley said other family members have had a similar response, while Werribee resident Tammy Lovell Taylor said she was informed of the situation while planning her father’s funeral last year. “We had my dad’s funeral in December through Le Pine in Werribee. We were told Werribee is full and the only option is Altona. Any local funeral home will tell you Werribee is full unless you have a reserved plot,” said Ms Lovell Taylor, whose father was cremated. Le Pine and other funeral operators in Wyndham didn’t respond to Star Weekly’s enquiries. Greater Metropolitan Cemeteries Trust

took over responsibility of Werribee Cemetery in 2010. GMCT’s chief operations & people officer Dimi Patitsas wouldn’t confirm that Werribee Cemetery is full, but said it was experiencing capacity constraints like many other cemeteries across Melbourne and that the issue was being addressed. “We are planning new lawn areas and an extension to the mausoleum at Werribee Cemetery,” said Ms Patitsas, adding that plenty of burial space was available in neighbouring council areas. “We will continue serving the growing communities in Melbourne’s west with care and compassion at Altona Memorial Park and at the state’s largest new cemetery in 100 years at Harkness in the City of Melton.”

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Rentals fail mandated standards Many affordable rentals are failing to meet minimum standards, with an undercover operation discovering multiple maintenance issues including mould and ineffective heating. People posing as potential tenants inspected 100 rental properties in Wyndham Vale and Bendigo to test how they fared under the state’s rental minimum standards between February to April 2023. A majority of the homes inspected appeared to meet the standards but a significant proportion, mainly at the more affordable end, did not, the Consumer Policy Research Centre and Tenants Victoria found. More than a quarter of homes had

maintenance issues, including visible mould in nine, 15 failed heating standards, 26 did not not meet a good standard for smoke alarm placement and 10 had no window coverings or curtains. About 40 per cent low-cost rentals were not well-maintained compared to 18 per cent of higher-cost properties. More enforcement is required across all affordable rentals to ensure renters are protected, the research centre’s chief executive Erin Turner says. “We did find that there’s a lot of properties that are affordable that do meet the minimum standards, but we saw ... things that would make a home unsafe or unliveable,“ she said

on ABC radio. “There’s a risk that in a tight rental market some people may feel they have no choice but to accept unsafe or unsuitable properties.“ Real estate agents were also probed over the properties’ gas and electrical safety compliance, heater energy efficiency and any mould history, of which only half were able to answer. About 13 were unable to provide any information at all. “There’s room for improvement both for landlords to provide this information and for agents make sure they have it when people need it,“ Ms Turner said. Victoria’s minimum standards require

buildings to be mould-free, have an energy efficient heater in the main living area and have compliant electrical switchboards, circuit breakers and safety switches. The report made seven recommendations to strengthen protections including detailed guidance on what is required for a rental and for Consumer Affairs Victoria to monitor and enforce laws on properties with lower-than-average rent. It also urged leaders to reform laws to ensure essential information about a property is provided at or before an inspection and expanding minimum standards to ensure people are comfortable and safer at home. AAP

Rushford reconstruction

Sunil Gupta’s exhibition The New Pre-Raphaelites is currently on display at Wyndham Art Gallery as part of Queer Photo24 festival. ((Jacob Pattison)386589_01

Contemporary photos build on past Internationally renowned artist Sunil Gupta is currently presenting his exhibition The New Pre-Raphaelites at Wyndham Art Gallery. This exhibition features a series of 13 photographs from Gupta which take their starting point from historical paintings by the Pre-Raphaelites, a collective of English artists and reformists founded in 1848. Gupta has staged the photographic works to recreate the vivid colours and strong physical present of Pre-Raphaelite paintings

to reflect contemporary queer culture in India. The exhibition which forms part of Queer PHOTO 24 – a large-scale free photography festival in Melbourne’s West – is on display until Sunday March 24. The photography festival celebrates contemporary queer culture and features over 30 events across Wyndham, Footscray and Newport showcasing indoor and outdoor works from 17 Australian and International artists.

Queer PHOTO Festival is presented by Midsumma and PHOTO 2024 International Festival of Photography, in association with Wyndham City Arts & Culture, with support by Creative Victoria through the Victorian Government’s Go West Fund. Sunil Gupta The New Pre-Raphaelites is a free exhibition on display at the Wyndham Art Gallery, 177 Watton St, Werribee from 9am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday and 11am to 4pm on Saturday and Sunday. Cade Lucas

The reconstruction of Rushford Lane and Road R1 in Werribee will begin in the coming weeks after Wyndham council announced on Monday that the construction tender for the project had been awarded. The reconstruction of the two laneways will start by late February or early March and be carried out across three stages in an effort to minimise disruptions to the community. Works on the Road R1 laneway behind Goodyear Autocare to be completed in one stage, while the other two stages will focus on Rushford Lane which runs from Bridge Street to Duncans Road in central Werribee. Wyndham mayor Jennie Barrera, said the works will positively impact the surrounding businesses and improve daily use of the laneways. “The Rushford Lane and R1 road reconstruction shows our commitment to improving our local roads and better servicing our community,” Cr Barrera said. The reconstruction works are aimed at making both laneways smoother and safer for drivers as well as improving existing drainage issues along Rushford Lane. Cr Barrera said the project was the latest in a series of similar road upgrades scheduled to occur across the municipality. “Enhancing local roads remains a top focus in Wyndham City’s 2023/24 budget. This year, we’re allocating $8.4 million to reconstruct 12 roads across our community.”

Big rigs arrive to power up Ison Road overpass project Having finally begun late last year, work on the long awaited Ison Road overpass in Werribee is about to get a whole lot bigger. The first two of three 21m high piling rigs have arrived on site to help establish the bridge foundation, while earthworks are underway to raise ground levels for the overpass road. In coming months, the third and biggest of the three rigs, weighing a whopping 124 tonnes, will arrive. The massive machines will help crews build about 1000 steel-reinforced concrete piles up to 12 metres deep and nearly a metre in diameter. 2 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 14 February, 2024

The piling works began on January 17 and are slated for completion in June. Earthworks are also underway and will continue throughout 2024, with trucks delivering 200,000 cubic metres of fill material - enough to fill 80 Olympic-size swimming pools - to the site. Major Road Projects Victoria Acting Program Director Damian Van Dyke said it was pleasing to see the project finally taking shape. “The overpass will provide an easier alternative for motorists in Wyndham West to get to the Princes Freeway, which will help make the centre of Werribee safer and less

congested,” he said. “We thank the community for its patience as we work with construction partner Decmil to deliver this important project.” Infrastructure firm Decimil was awarded the $78 million contract to build the overpass in December last year. Decmil Executive General Manager Simon Barnes said constructing the overpass would add to the company’s track record of infrastructure builds in the area. “Decmil is proud to partner with Major Road Projects Victoria and Victoria’s Big Build Roads to deliver the Ison Road Overpass project. We have delivered a

number of projects in the region, most recently a section of the Barwon Heads Road Upgrade – Stage 1.” Work on the Ison Road Overpass began in November 2023 after funding for the the project was announced in September 2022. Due for completion by the end of 2025, the four-lane overpass will extend over the Melbourne-Geelong railway line toward the Princes Freeway and will have the capacity to expand to six lanes in the future. It’s predicted the overpass will cater for 29,000 vehicles a day by 2036. Cade Lucas

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Council buys theatre for $4.4m By Cade Lucas Wyndham council has paid $4.4 million for the historic former Palais theatre site in Werribee. The site in Station Place, which is currently home to a Cash Converters outlet, was originally opened in 1928 as the Picture Palais theatre and cinema. The property was listed for sale in November last year by Fitzroy’s estate agents on behalf of longtime owners, the Carter family. Wyndham mayor Jennie Barrera, said council chose to purchase the site as part of its efforts to rejuvenate central Werribee.

“In recent years Wyndham City has invested heavily in the Werribee city centre, including a $13 million redevelopment of Wyndham Park, reactivation of the Bridge Hotel and the Hunter Werribee building with Holiday Inn, offices, shops and public parking,” Cr Barrera said. “Council’s strategic decision to purchase the old Palais theatre site means we’re able to guide the type of development that we will see there in the future, in keeping with our vision for the Werribee city centre.” Wyndham councillor Mia Shaw said buying the property was in investment in Wyndham’s future.

“This acquisition is all about making Werribee city centre a more vibrant and exciting place to be for our residents and visitors, and will ensure a lasting legacy for our community,” she said. “Council will now work closely with the current tenants as we look at the long-term future of the site.” Fitzroys estate agent Chris Kombi helped sell the the two-level 1,000sqm site and said it presented Wyndham council with plenty of options. “Currently occupied by ASX-listed Cash Converters, the asset also gives the council a secure income stream from a high-quality tenant,” he said.

Mr Kombi and colleague Ervin Niyaz acted on behalf of the Carter family, successful poultry farmers with a long and history in Werribee dating back to 1879. The Palais is one of several notable buildings that have been constructed by and for the family in the area, including Villa Franca and Roland Carter House. Chris Kombi said “The interest in campaign clearly reflected that Werribee is now the commercial and cultural centre of Wyndham, having developed a retail, office and lifestyle offering that draws and services residents, workers and students locally and from the surrounding suburbs.”

Court over baby’s death

Wyndham Harbour general manager Tevita Lesuma and Australian Offshore Power Boat Club commodore, Anthony De Fina ahead mof round one of the superboat championships on February 24 and 25. (Damjan Janevski) 385199_01

Powerboats prepare to hit the water Wyndham Harbour will be the home of horsepower on the weekend of February 24 and 25 when it hosts Round 1 of the Offshore Superboat Championship. Run by the Australian Offshore Power Boat Club (AOPC), the championship is made up of multiple classes of boats across open and enclosed cockpits, with events up the eastern seaboard of Australia. This year’s line-up features roughly twenty different competitors across the classes, with many of the teams actually involved in the designing and building of their own craft and some boats capable of reaching speeds in excess of 180kph.

AOPC Commodore, Antony de Fina said Wyndham Harbour was a great place to kick off the championship. “It is a great location with good waves, and close in action for the spectators,” he said. “We love coming to Wyndham Harbour where the Marina team and council here are very supportive of our sport. It’s such a great relaxed family venue with terrific facilities and it brings the spectators and the racing together - up close and personal.” The 30-minute races commence on Saturday February 24 at 1pm with SuperSports 65 and SuperSport 85 classes. At 2pm the first Superboat race will be

held and then at 3pm the SuperSport classes return to the track immediately adjacent to the marina. On Sunday, the Superboats have their first race at 11am followed by the two SuperSport classes at 12pm and then the final race of the weekend is at 1pm with the Superboats taking to the water once more. Presentations will then follow at 3.30pm right at the front of the marina. For more information visit: www.superboat. com.au Cade Lucas

A man accused of murder after a baby boy died from assault-related injuries has faced court. Benjamin Joseph Swann was brought into Melbourne Magistrates Court on Thursday afternoon, flanked by custody officers. The 29-year-old Hillside man has been charged with child homicide and murder, over the baby boy’s death in January. Swann’s lawyer Anthony Condello told the court his client required depression medication and had been diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and oppositional defiant disorder. Magistrate Rose Falla said Swann seemed “somewhat confused“ as she explained to him the court process. “I’ve made some orders that identify how this matter’s going to proceed,“ she told Swann. “I’ve set some time and dates, of which things need to happen for when we come back to court.“ Prosecutors have until May 2 to gather evidence, including CCTV and statements, to hand over to Swann’s lawyers. Ms Falla ordered Swann to next face the court on June 13, via video link from prison. The infant was found unresponsive by paramedics about 4am on January 19 at a Werribee home, west of Melbourne, police said. He was taken to hospital with what police said were significant assault-related injuries, and he died the following morning. Police said the baby’s death was deemed suspicious after they received the results of the post-mortem, and Swann was known to the baby but was not the biological father. AAP

Manor Lakes boy among five motorbike hoon arrests A 15 year old boy Manor Lakes boy is one of five youths arrested in relation to an illegal motorbike riding event just before Christmas. Police executed a series of warrants across Melbourne’s north and southeast on Wednesday January 31, arresting five males. Those arrested include a 15-year-old Manor Lakes boy, a 16-year-old Springvale boy, a 17-year-old Dallas boy, a 19-year-old Reservoir man and a 20-year-old Craigieburn man. The Manor Lakes boy was released pending further enquiries, while the Craigieburn

man and Dallas and Springvale boys, were released and are expected to be charged on summons with reckless conduct endangering life, driving unlicenced and driving an unregistered vehicle. The Reservoir man was charged with 15 offences including allegedly damaging a police vehicle, reckless conduct endangering life, dangerous driving and possessing a drug of dependence. He was bailed to appear before Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on April 19 . A 19-year-old Broadmeadows man, not present when police executed a warrant at his

house, was interviewed on Friday February 2 and released pending summons for reckless conduct endangering life, unlicenced driving and driving an unregistered vehicle. Police are still searching for motorbikes used in the incident which occurred across multiple freeways on Saturday December 23. Approximately 55 riders were first spotted riding erratically on the Western Ring Road near Sydney Road about 3.25pm before heading to the Tullamarine Freeway, CityLink and riding over the Bolte Bridge. The group then travelled to a St Kilda where they continued to ride dangerously around

Catani Gardens. Once police arrived, a rider allegedly kicked the side mirror of the police vehicle before the group took off back towards the city, allegedly swerving between cars, performing wheelies and filming each other while riding on CityLink. Police have released images of four other men they believe may be able to assist with their enquiries. Anyone who recognises one of the men or has any other or anyone information should contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au. Wednesday, 14 February, 2024 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY 3

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Western United is coming home Western United is heading home. Wyndham council announced on Tuesday that work on the Regional Football Facility in Tarneit is now complete. The A-League Women home fixture against Newcastle Jets on Sunday, March 17 is set to be the opening match, followed by National Premier League and A-League Men games. Western United women’s coach Kat Smith said she can’t wait for her team to be playing in the opening match at Tarneit. “It’s such a privilege for myself, the players and all the fans who’ve joined our journey of building a football club to share this

significant milestone of moving into our new headquarters and playing a home match for the very first time,” she said. “The girls will be absolutely buzzing to be playing in this historic opening match.” Men’s coach John Aloisi echoed Smith’s comments. “Our boys are so eager and excited to get to Tarneit, create our home and just start sharing football experiences with the local community,” he said. “The preamble is over, we’re coming home now. It truly is a great day for football.” Wyndham mayor Jennie Barrera, said

completion of the facility marked the first stage of the council’s project. The next stage will deliver a purpose-built, 15,000-capacity football stadium and 800-lot residential community. “It’s been a long time coming and we are so excited to welcome Western United to its rightful home in Tarneit,” Ms Barrera said. Western United and WMG chairman Jason Sourasis said the club would be working feverishly to be ready to host games as soon as possible. “This is a momentous milestone for everyone involved in the project. It allows us

to move into our permanent home, playing out of only the second rectangular stadium in the state of Victoria that is approved to play A-League Men and A-League Women games,” Mr Sourasis said. “The next phase of growth for Western United Football Club will be underpinned by a community and fan-first philosophy as we entrench our football club into the Wyndham community. I thank everyone that has been on this journey for their unwavering belief, effort, support and patience.” United and council will share additional updates as soon as possible.

Creative feedback

Young Achievers Foundation cadets Joanne (18) and Yifan (11) with foundation members and Sanctuary Lakes Golf Club representatives ahead its golf day fundraiser there on March 15. (Damjan Janevski) 387962_01

Young achievers are on course An organisation established to give young achievers in the west a helping hand, is calling on golfers to do the same for them next month. The Young Achievers Foundation (YAF) is holding their annual golf day fundraiser at Sanctuary Lakes Golf Club on Friday March 15. YAF president Sam Vaimuthu said proceeds from the day would help the foundation help young people across Wyndham, Brimbank, Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay. “It’ll help high performance young people in west of Melbourne who are aspiring to be elite in their discipline, be it golf, sport or the arts,” said Mr Vaimuthu of what YAF has

been doing since it was established to assist young golfers more than 30 years ago. Since then YAF has broadened the range of sports and disciplines it takes ‘cadets’ from, only requiring that they be aged 12 to 24 and be of sufficient potential, but lacking the financial means needed to reach it. “We sponsor them and give them an allowance and also cover costs like registration, administration fees and stuff like that,” explained Mr Vaimuthu of how YAF helps out its cadets. “At the moment we have cadets from various sports. We have four from golf, we have baseball player a hockey player and also a racing car driver and a ballet dancer.”

In order to retain support, cadets’ performance and achievements are assessed every six months to ensure they’re continued development. Socceroo and Melbourne City player Jimmy Jeggo and former golfer and now prominent golfing commentator Stacy Keating are among YAF’s most notable alumni. The golf day is $150 per person and players can book individually or as a team. The day will finish with dinner, entertainment, auctions and raffles. For more information: yaf3030@gmail.com Cade Lucas

Wyndham council is inviting community feedback to help develop its ‘Creative Wyndham’ strategy. The Creative Wyndham strategy aims to identify the role of the arts and creativity in building social connection, attracting events and visitors, making public spaces more attractive, safe and engaging and in building a resilient local economy. The strategy will also build upon the creative programming that Wyndham council currently delivers, including visual arts, arts development, creative event programming, libraries, community centres, youth services, public open spaces and cultural venues. Wyndham councillor Marcel Mahfoud said he was looking forward to community feedback to help to Wyndham to continue to deliver strong creative programs, activities and events. “We encourage feedback from those who participate and those who do not currently participate in creative activities in Wyndham,” he said. “We are a rapidly growing community, and it is important that we plan for a healthy creative future that caters and invests in our diverse community’s needs. It is important that the strategy we develop reflects our city’s cultural diversity and also the range of artistic disciplines that are practised in Wyndham – from dance, performing arts, craft, storytelling and everything in between.” Community feedback is being accepted March 18. To provide feedback and for more information visit: www.theloop. wyndham.vic.gov.au

Wyndham council getting tired of dumped tyre problem The federal government is being called on to address the growing problem of illegal tyre dumping, with Wyndham among the council areas worst affected. Environmental authorities found 2700 tyres dumped on public land in Victoria last year with The Conservation Regulator and Parks Victoria recording at least 60 separate illegal dumping incidents and Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) estimating that thousands more have been dumped, burned, or stockpiled. According to Lina Goodman, CEO of tyre industry representative body Tyre Stewardship Australia, much of that illegal activity occurs in areas like Wyndham. “What we’re finding is that unfortunately those municipalities that have a combination industry, housing and parklands present a perfect scenario for opportunistic operators 4 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 14 February, 2024

to dump tyres,” she said. “Wyndham is one of those.” Dumped tyres are not only unsightly but present an environmental and health hazard, emitting toxic smoke if they catch fire and providing a breeding ground for disease carrying mosquitos. Wyndham council estimates that it spends $6000 per month collecting 500 illegally dumped tyres on average. A spokesperson for Wyndham council said the problem didn’t end with collection. “The biggest impact is that the tyres need to be collected separately and not mixed with other waste as they cannot be separated at the Refuse Disposal Facility,” the spokesperson said. “This can put pressure on waste collection services, and we occasionally need to engage subcontractors to assist, which adds

additional costs.” Ms Goodman said while local governments bear the brunt of the problem, it was up to the the federal government to provide a solution. “ What we need to happen is for the federal government to step in to put in a regulatory scheme for tyres so that rogue operators can no longer do business. If the federal government fails to regulate local councils like Wyndham will be paying for dumped tyres forever.” The office of Federal Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek was contacted for comment. The rogue operators Lina Goodman refers to are those pretending to be tyre recycling companies. “They take money from unsuspecting retailers and they just don’t recycle the tyres but dump them instead,” she said, adding that the practice.

“I was talking to some of our legitimate recyclers and they’ve indicated they’ve seen a 40 per cent impact to their business by rogue operators pretending to be recyclers.” Ms Goodman said consumers wanting to make sure they visit a legitimate recycler could search TSA’s website or look for its accreditation logo on display. A spokesperson for Wyndham council warned those caught dumping tyres illegally faced stiff stiff penalties. “If an individual or business is caught dumping tyres, they face significant fines from council for littering, and from the EPA for failing to comply with the requirements. A Hoppers Crossing business was recently fined close to $20,000.” Details: https://www.tyrestewardship.org. au/mytyresmychoice/

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Costa’s Saint Joseph’s surprise By Cade Lucas Students at a Werribee primary school were treated to a surprise visit from Australia’s most famous gardener and one of its most famous beards on Wednesday morning. Costa Georgiadis, aka Costa from Gardening Australia, turned up unannounced at Saint Joseph’s Primary School on February 7 to reward them for winning Landcare’s nationwide Love Letters to the Land competition. Saint Joseph’s students submitted hundreds of letters in the competition, with each student sharing heartfelt sentiments about their love for the land and detailing what they do to care for it.

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They are slowly and surely building an incredibly productive and educational space that is inclusive of all the students - Costa Georgiadis

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Costa said he was hugely impressed with the effort made by Saint Joseph’s teachers and students. “Their contribution to the Love Letters to the Land Junior Landcare project was above and beyond and I had the chance to read some of the 300 letters shared by the students at the school,” he said. “It was such a pleasure to recognise this effort with a face-to-face visit.” After his surprise appearance at a specially convened assembly, Costa toured the school grounds and participated in planting activities with students. He marvelled at the commitment Saint

Costa from Gardening Australia with students at Saint Joseph’s Primary School in Werribee on Wednesday.

Joseph’s had made to gardening and landcare. “The thing that struck me the most is that the school itself is only four years old and the garden even younger yet they are slowly and surely building an incredibly productive and educational space that is inclusive of all the students,” Costa said. The school started in January 2021 with 127 students and now has 300 students, many of whom are involved in caring for its large

garden area. The brainchild of Environmental Education teacher Elizabeth McPherson, the area includes a vegetable garden, bush tucker garden, frog habitat, medicine garden, worm farm, composting station, mud kitchen and yarning circle to incorporate Indigenous perspectives. Costa called Ms McPherson an ‘absolute powerhouse’ for her work starting the garden

and inspiring students to care for their natural environment, compliments she was happy to return. “Costa is a ray of sunshine,” she said, adding that having him come to visit after winning a national award was hugely gratifying. “This feels like validation for the hard work the children have put in. The kids are thrilled to meet Costa; we all love watching Gardening Australia Junior.”

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Speaking the language of love Red roses, dinner dates and fancy chocolate are on the cards for Australians across the country this week. Whether you celebrate Valentine’s Day or not, there’s always time to pause and hear the stories of couples young and old, as Zoe Moffatt discovers.

eneath the trickle of rain drops at the Lightscape show in the Royal Botanic Gardens, Hoppers Crossing resident Tom Mahfoud, 28, knelt down on one knee. His chosen destination, a section in the light show called the chapel, was a big shutter light arrangement. With clammy hands and a passerby poised with his phone to capture the moment, Tom popped the question to his partner of five years, Alexandra Murray, 26. “I was absolutely nervous,” Tom said, reminiscing on the proposal. “She just made a few [comments, like] it’s so nice here, look how beautiful it is. Your heart’s in your throat at that point… I was a bit clammy.” The resounding yes from Alexandra kicked off their engagement, and the beginning of their journey to getting married. For Tom, he said the realisation that he wanted to marry Alexandra hit when they started to live together. This feeling grew as the years stretched on, and as their lives became entangled with two dogs. “Everything kind of hit me in the fourth year, and I thought this is, you know, this is definitely forever,” he said. “You can’t see life without them.” For the couple, Valentine’s Day is one they look forward to and celebrate each year. Amongst their busy schedules it’s an important reminder to come together.

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Find out what someone’s love language is. Finding that out pretty early on helps to build a really strong relationship - Tom Mahfoud

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“There’s a lot of times we don’t get to see each other for a whole heap after work,” he said. “So these kinds of moments, birthdays, anniversaries and Valentine’s Day are a good way for us to put aside some time for each other and just kick your feet off, enjoy and relax.” This year’s agenda includes a trip to a new Italian restaurant nearby, a walk on the new Altona Pier, some gelato and dipping their feet in the water, if Melbourne’s weather permits. For anyone who doesn’t have a Valentine’s Day filled with pasta, ice cream and moonlight walks, Tom said his top dating tip is communication and to trust your gut. “If you know things are right, generally it’ll be pretty obvious and [it’s important to keep] talking and understanding what the other side wants, loves and needs. “Find out what someone’s love language is. Finding that out pretty early on helps to build a really strong relationship and it’s definitely built our relationship pretty strong.” Almost 100 kilometres away in Whittlesea, Norma and Ray Hislop sit down to chat about their 75 years of marriage. The 96 and 98-year-olds don’t celebrate Valentine’s Day, but instead talk fondly about attending weekend dances and going to the pictures. The world was a different place more than eight decades ago when they met, but in answering questions there are striking similarities between the two couples. “[It’s about] give and take, see the other person’s point of view, appreciate their value and don’t forget to tell them,” Ray said. Meeting as young teenagers in the inner city suburb of Carlton, Norma was friends with Ray’s sister Betty, and was in church the first time she laid eyes on him. “His sister was sitting there with me in this church and I saw him in the doorway,” Norma said. It was this friendship with his sister that brought Norma to their house most Friday nights. 6 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 14 February, 2024

Main: Raymond and Norma Hislop have been married for 75 years. (Damjan Janevski) 386224_03 Left: Tom Mahfoud and his fiancé Alexandra Murray. (Supplied) Right: Thanks A Bunch Florists Sophie Marasco and her daughter Vanessa. (Damjan Janevski) 387289_01

“A lot of people used to come, it was a lovely friendly night. “There was no drink or anything like that. [Someone was] playing a piano and someone singing, and then someone cooking crumpets in the kitchen.” Norma said she lived around the corner from Ray’s house, near some mutual friends and they would walk her home each week. “Just out of the blue one Friday, we’re getting ready to go and Ray said no, I’ll walk her home. “I’d been thinking that this brother of Betty’s was quite nice looking and then I thought ‘oh how nice’.” From this wholesome beginning Norma and Ray’s relationship developed throughout the years and the couple got engaged when Norma was 19 and Ray was 21. “My girlfriend got engaged and I said, well, we want to get engaged [but] he wanted to wait,” Norma said. After a two year engagement, the couple got married on January 16, 1949. Looking back on their 75 years of marriage, Norma said they are a very lucky couple. “I mean, we are very lucky to be the age we are and look back on 75 years,” she said.

“When we look at all of the things we did, we are very very lucky to have these lovely children. Our family is so supportive and they are happily married with their wives and husbands.” Clocking up a total of five children, 11 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren. Norma and Ray’s life wasn’t without times of struggle. Their fourth child died at 11 months and in their early years together Ray spent a few years in the Air Force where they correspond via letters. “I think we never we never aspired beyond our means,” Ray said. “And the early days we worked together to just bring up a family and we were quite happy to plod along. “I had a fairly steady job and Norma was a great housewife and anything she took on she did it properly. She didn’t muck around.” Moving about 20 kilometres south west of Whittlesea, Epping florist Sophie Marasco who owns and operates Thanks A Bunch Florist with her daughter is getting ready for one of their busiest days in the year, along with Mother’s Day. “I’ve always loved gardens and flowers and

putting flowers together, I love the creative side,” she said. “Valentine’s Day is easier because you know it’s predominantly red roses. “I don’t think I’m one of the bigger [florists] and I’ve ordered about 2000 red roses, but we’ve got flowers and presents coming as well.” Sophie said there was a long line last year and extra hands on deck to spread the Valentine’s Day love. “There normally is about four to five of us and then we have four to five delivery drivers [for the day]. It’s a mother and daughter duo otherwise. “Last year we ran out of flowers, it was past 6pm and there was a guy who [got the last] single flower [from the fridge]. “He said if I don’t go home with something I’m going to be in the dog house.” With about 365 days until the next Valentine’s Day rolls around, Hobsons Bay council is offering to help all the single residents out there. There’s no doubt we’ve all been on a few rubbish dates but council is looking to flip the switch and is offering speed dating coupled with clean-up events throughout February. Who can say no to multitasking. Details: https://shorturl.at/imnv5

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Cashing cans to start a family By Cade Lucas Victoria’s new container deposit scheme is designed to reduce litter by encouraging people to exchange empty drink containers for a 10c refund. It’s hardly lucrative, but still handy, providing loose change that can be donated to charity, given to kids as pocket money or saved up for a trip to the movies, a birthday present or to pay for IVF treatment..sorry what? Who on earth is so desperate to have a kid that they’d pay for IVF treatment using refunds from empty bottles and cans? Tarneit couple Megan Baker and Amber Ryan, that’s who. Megan and Amber have been in a same sex relationship for almost two years and want to start a family, something that for lesbian couples is far more complicated than for most others. “IVF is our only option and it’s extremely expensive” said Megan who added that wanting to carry and give birth to their own child meant adoption and surrogacy weren’t options. With IVF costing roughly $10,000, Megan and Amber were brainstorming how they could come up with the money when the CDS launched in November last year. “We had been saving, putting all of our spare money aside, but it was taking so long and when the CDS started we thought that’s a good way to make cash,” said Megan who quickly realised that it wasn’t such a good way to make the type of cash she and Amber need. They enlisted help instead. “We talked to local businesses to see if they’d donate cans and bottles to us and we got Grilled and Schnitz at Werribee Plaza and Point Cook on board,” she said. “We go and pick up their cans and bottles

Tarneit couple, Amber Ryan (right) and Megan Baker are using the CDS to help raise funds for IVF treatment to start a family. (Supplied)

every day and go and recycle them.” But even with this support, Megan and Amber are still well short of $10,000, which is only enough for one IVF cycle anyway. “It can take anywhere between one and infinity,” said Megan of the amount of cycles sometimes needed for IVF treatment to be successful, something which can take a physical and mental toll on patients as well as a financial one. As Megan explained, having to fund multiple

IVF cycles is another area where lesbian couples are disadvantaged. “There is a Medicare rebate but that’s only if you’re found to have fertility issues,” she said, adding that for same sex couples with no fertility issues, but needing IVF out of biological necessity, “there is no recognition or consideration.” Undeterred, the couple have started a gofundme to help them fund their first (and they hope, only) IVF cycle which Megan is

hoping to begin sometime this year. “I’m in my 40’s, I don’t have much time,” said Megan explaining why she was going first. If unsuccessful, it’ll then be Amber’s turn, with the couple committed to doing as much fundraising to afford as many IVF cycles as needed to finally have a child. “We wanna start a family,“ said Megan. “You’ve gotta make some sacrifices to get what you want.” To donate visit: https://shorturl.at/egxLV

Gellibrand is passionate about supporting people with disabilities to live their best life; in their way, with whom and where they choose. Our philosophy is about putting people first: Real People, Real Connection, Real Service, Real Outcomes is our passion and our commitment. Gellibrand offers supported accommodation (SIL & SDA), support coordination, community participation 1:1, Meaningful Activities in Partnership (group community participation) and respite supports (STA and MTA) . Gellibrand currently have 6 vacancies in Wyndham, 1 vacancy in Hobsons Bay, 2 vacancies in Melton (Robust House) and 4 vacancies in Ballarat. Love Laverton Festival Committee members, Wayne Fleming, Jane Flynn, Anne Randall, Shania (1), with Community Bank representatives, Gladys McKenzie, Brandon White. (Jacob Pattison) 386660_01

Laverton community day It is the Laverton community’s turn to experience a fun day out with the upcoming Love Laverton Festival. Laverton Traders Association marketing manager Anne Randall has been with the festival since it began more than 20 years ago, watching it grow more and more. “It was a lot smaller when it first began, we started out hosting it on a piece of asphalt with nothing,” she said. “Now we have an amazing stage and it is held in an inviting environment.” More than 5000 people are expected to

attend over the course of the day, which Ms Randall said requires a larger location. The event will be held at Curlew Community Park for a day of live music, rides, food trucks and stalls. “It is free to enter however there will be a $15 kids package which includes all rides and activities,” she said. In addition to the activities and rides, Ms Randall ensures that parents and adults will also stay entertained with a line of local talents and performances. The event will be held on Sunday, February 18.

For all enquiries please contact us through any of the following channels.

gellibrand.org.au | services@gellibrand.org.au | 9300 5491

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The art of conversation It was after a Sunday service Werribee Church of Christ a decade ago that parishioner Bronwen Hickman noticed a group of young migrants from Iran had arrived seeking help. “Someone had probably told them ‘go to the church, they’ll help you’,” said Ms Hickman who greeted the young men. “They’d just arrived in Hoppers Crossing where they’d been allotted a flat to live in. They were four young guys but they had no furniture, cooking utensils, nothing. The flat was empty,” she said describing what assistance the men were seeking. It was while they were asking for this assistance that she notice something else they needed help with. “They were really struggling to make themselves understood they couldn’t speak much English,” recalled Ms Hickman, herself a former English teacher. “I thought that’s something I could do to help with. I could help with English and translate for them and so on.” And so began weekly English conversation

classes at the church which have been running ever since and have just resumed for 2024 following a summer break. While Ms Hickman is a trained English teacher, she said the classes are not formal and focused more on conversation, building confidence and teaching basic words required for everyday life. “Fairly practical stuff, language they might need like buying a train ticket, going to the bank or post office or getting whatever they need,” she said. Along with Ms Hickman, there are three to four other volunteers who help with the classes, but she stressed there is always a need more. “We’d like to be able to do it one on one if we can.” The free classes run every Saturday at Werribee Church of Christ from 10am to 11.30am. For more information: https://www. werribeechurchofchrist.org/

A Hoppers Crossing woman was among four people allegedly assaulted by a man with a glass bottle in the Melbourne CBD on Friday night. The alleged assaults occurred on Princes Bridge, about 5.30pm on February 9. A 46-year-old Hoppers Crossing woman, 67-year-old Warneet man, a 56-year-old Collingwood woman and a 34-year-old Kennington woman were all taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. A 27 year-old South Melbourne man was arrested at the scene and later charged with four counts of recklessly causing injury. He appeared before the Melbourne Magistrate’s Court on February 10 and was refused bail. He will return to court on Friday February 16. FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Wyndham Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

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A Wyndham Vale man has been charged following the death of a pedestrian in Derrimut on Sunday morning. A 27-year-old Sunshine West man was killed after allegedly being struck by a car on Boundary Road just before 3.50am on February 11. The 36-year-old Wyndham Vale man handed himself in to police on Monday February 12 and has been charged with failure to stop, failure to render assistance and other offences. He has been remanded to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on May 7.

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Creek visit inspires hoop dreams Some of Wyndham’s budding young basketballers had the chance to shoot hoops alongside South East Melbourne Phoenix star, Mitch Creek, on Wednesday night. The former NBA player and Boomers representative conducted one of his Wolfpack Basketball coaching clinics at Point Cook Secondary College. Creek began the coaching clinics just prior to the start of the current NBL season and said they were designed to teach basketball fundamentals that some junior players miss. “Foundation skill development is the most essential parts of a basketball game that I think young boys and girls and they and thems need to understand to be able to play at the next level,” he said. “We’re talking about controlling the basketball so it’s safe from the defender, being able to manipulate two basketballs at the same time without looking, the correct way to shoot the basketball, correct footwork, distance and space in one on one moves and the ability to beat a defender one on one with simple, effective moves.” Along with physical skills, Creek said the sessions also focus on the mental side of the game too. “I do think we don’t talk about the mental and physical aspects combined,” he said. “It flows in a direct lineage of mental health equals performance. Like if you have great mental health, you’re aware of yourself, the people around you, you typically influence yourself and others to have a great performance and great outcomes.” Horsham born Creek has been taking Wolfpack Basketball across rural and regional areas, but Wednesday night was his first time in Wyndham. He said there was great potential for basketball in the area. “I do think that it could definitely be a hub for a high performance centre, especially in the northwest.”

Above: Mitch Creek (back left) with some of the junior participants at his coaching clinic. Top right Mitch with Point Cook Secondary Senior College principal Mr Shaun Sleep, Christina Wang, Conor Deng and David Yang. (Pictures: Supplied)

Mitch Creek demonstrated his technique, offered advice and signed autrographs at Point Cook Senior Secondary College.

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Volunteer is driven to mentor By Jennifer Pittorino Learning to drive is a hard enough experience as it is, let alone not having access to a supervising driver or car. For the past five years Tony Cutroni has dedicated his time and patience to teach as a volunteer mentor to learner drivers across Hobsons Bay. This is all done through the TAC L2P Program which Mr Cutroni discovered through the Laverton Community Hub. “It is a very good program and very enjoyable,” he said.

With a teaching background, Mr Cutroni is a man of patience and loves helping people. “Years ago I was a teacher and then I was in public service in the training section where I was involved in teaching adults,” he said. “I am also a qualified language teacher to migrants English as a second language.” Most mentors teach one student at a time, except for Mr Cutroni who is currently dividing his time between two students. Over the years Mr Cutroni has taught eight students, something he is very proud of. “They have all been very good and all have different skills and abilities,” he said.

“As a mentor, you have to adjust his or her driving style according to the student.” The structure of the teaching depends on how many hours the student has driven. Mr Cutroni said most of the time they have only logged five or ten hours. “That means we need to get them up to 120 hours. I usually do two hours of driving with them a week.” Mr Cutroni said he couldn’t recommend the program enough. If you enjoy driving and helping others this could be your calling. The cars have been provided by both Hobsons Bay and Wyndham councils, so no

personal cars are required. TAC L2P project coordinator Naheed Akhtrar said the program is always looking for new mentors. “This program is more or less about creating a bond and teaching them some other life skills other than just driving,” she said. “We have mentors who are from all age groups and put in whatever hours they like.” All interested applicants can apply through the VicRoads website. Details: vicroads.vic.gov. au/licences/your-ps/get-your-ps/preparing-foryour-licence-test/l2p-learner-driver-mentorprogram

Join the sons of the west Wyndham council is calling on men aged 18 and over living or working in the west, to take up a free 10-week health program that takes a holistic approach to improving men’s health. The latest Sons of the West program, to be delivered jointly by Wyndham council, the Western Bulldogs Community Foundation and Western Leisure Services, was announced at Whitten Oval on Wednesday as part of 10th anniversary celebrations for the Bulldogs men’s health initiative. Beginning on March 6, two Sons of the West sessions will meet every Wednesday at Eagle Stadium in Werribee, with the morning group running 11.30am to 1.30pm and the evening group from 6.30pm to 8.30pm. Wyndham councillor Peter Maynard was present at the launch and said Sons of the West is an invaluable program for men seeking to adopt a healthier lifestyle. “Sons of the West makes exercise and healthy

eating fun and easily integrated into everyday life,” he said. “Another positive change men make in their lives following this program, is improved contact with health services. Many past participants now make visiting doctors, dentists, or specialised services such as counselling or physiotherapy, part of their regular health routine. “I encourage men who want to improve their physical and mental health to come along and take part in Sons of the West. It is a great way to make positive personal change and meet friends along the way.” The two-hour weekly sessions teach men how to improve their health and wellbeing and learn about range of topics affecting them and their families. For more information visit: westernbulldogs. com.au/foundation/programs/ sons-of-the-west Cade Lucas

Wyndham councillor Peter Maynard (right) with previous Sons of the West participant Dan, at its 10th anniversary celebrations at Whitten Oval. (Supplied)

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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

Laverton Community Choir The choir is currently welcoming new members – especially male voices. If you love singing and would like to be part of a choir – come along and try out your vocal cords with our fun and welcoming group of singers. There are no auditions and you don’t need to be able to read music. The group meets on Thursday evenings during school terms at Laverton P12 College, 91 Bladin Street, Laverton from 7-9pm. ■ Sue, 0418 386 147 or lavertoncommunitychoir@gmail.com

Lunar Festival Point Cook will be transformed into a kaleidoscope of colours, costumes, tastes and sounds when it hosts the 7th annual Wyndham Multicultural Lunar Festival on Sunday February 18. Held at Point Cook Town Centre from 11am through to 9pm, a crowd of 25,000 is expected to visit this year’s festival throughout the day. ■ pcculturalcommunity@gmail.com

Live Well for Life Live Well for Life is a free five-week program that provides support and information to Wyndham residents 18 and older, on a number of issues including how to make healthy behaviour changes, heart disease, diabetes and stroke, healthy eating, physical activity and sleep. The program will run at IPC Health, 117-129 Warringa Court, Hoppers Crossing in April and May. Registration is essential and participants must be able to attend all sessions. ■ livingwell@ipchealth.com.au or 1300 472 432

Point Cook VIEW The Point Cook Day VIEW Club meets on the fourth Wednesday of the month at the Point Cook Library 1-21 Cheetham Street, Point Cook. New members welcome. ■ Catherine, 0407 726 852

Watton Group A support group providing a social space for carers to get together in a safe and compassionate environment. Gives carers an opportunity to connect, share their experiences and offers emotional and practical support. The group meets at the Eco-Living Centre at 10am every fourth Tuesday of the month. ■ Patricia, 0434 487 360 or wattongroup131@gmail.com

All Abilities Netball All Abilities Netball for 10 to 25-year-olds is run by Wyndham Netball Association every Saturday morning during school terms from 10.30am on outside court 14 at Eagle Stadium, Ballan Road, Werribee. Intellectual, physical and social disabilities are catered for in a fun and supported group. Come and try your first session for free, with stadium entry $2. ■ Phil, 0437 078 739

This week’s photographer’s choice is Street dance crew Kihmo Quintela and Giuliano Hammal. (Damjan Janevski) 386998_01

With One Voice Wyndham Choir

Diabetes Support Group

A Community choir open to all – no auditions or experience necessary. Our community welcomes all ages, abilities, faiths, cultures and genders. We are directed by a very experienced and friendly professional conductor. Fun weekly rehearsals and amazing performance opportunities are provided. We sing for an hour and then have a cuppa. The first two visits are free; and then payment is by tax-deductible donation. Tuesday evenings 7pm-8.30pm at Wayaperri House – 106 Duncans Road, Werribee. ■ wyndham@withonevoice.org.au

The Werribee Diabetes support provides an opportunity to hear from experts on how to manage your diabetes, to share information on diabetes and to engage with other diabetics Meetings are at the old council shire buildings at 10am every second Friday of the month. ■ Bob, 0409 252 872

Foundation will put you in a team of 4, or gather your friends to make your own 4-ball. The day will finish with dinner, entertainment, auctions and raffles. The cost is $150 per person and golf carts may be available for an additional $50 (2 golfers per cart). ■ Sam, 0438 423 425, or Alan Seedsman, 0417 512 742 or yaf3030@gmail.com

Sunrise Social Groups

Western Budgerigar Club

GenWest Sunrise Social Groups are currently seeking new members for their Melton, Brimbank and Wyndham programs. The free groups are organised by Genwest and provide a social space for women, gender diverse and nonbinary people, who have a disability, chronic health issues and/ or mental health challenges. ■ https://genwest.org.au/what-we-do/ health-wellbeing-programs/

The Western Suburbs Budgerigar Club meets at 7.30pm on the third Thursday of each month at Masonic Hall, 223 Watton Street, Werribee. Meet other members who are also passionate about breeding Budgerigars. ■ Don, 0414 975 862

Wyndham Rotary Wyndham Rotary welcomes people interested in helping people in need in the community. Interested in finding out more, come to the Italian Sports Club each Wednesday at 6.30pm for a meal, to share ideas and to work for a common cause. ■ Julie, 0406 196 630

Lions Club Lions Club of Werribee meets at the RSL Club, 2a Synnot Street, Werribee on the first and third Wednesday of the month at 6.30pm. ■ Jorge, 0433 566 575

Friends of Presidents Park Walking Netball is a low impact, no running, no jumping version for those that love the fun, friendship and activity of a weekly game of netball. Sessions are run every Thursday during school terms from 8pm at Eagle Stadium, Ballan Road, Werribee. Come and try your first session for free, with stadium entry $2. ■ Phil, 0437 078 739

The Friends of Presidents Park meets from 10am-noon on the first Thursday of the month, to undertake Landcare activities along the Werribee River through the park and surrounding areas. Bring your own gloves and water. Morning tea provided. Meeting at the carpark near the Shaws Road Bridge, Heaths Road, near the fenced dog park. ■ admin@werribeeriver.org.au

Hoppers Crossing Ladies Probus

Seniors club

The friendly and vibrant group meet at Hotel 520 on the second Wednesday of each month from 10am. They have a guest speaker each month as well as social lunches, outings and theatre trips. ■ 0408 123 669

The Werribee Senior Citizens Club meets at 80 Lonsdale Circuit, Hoppers Crossing. The group is open to all people 55-plus and it runs on Wednesdays, 10am- noon. Entry: $2, includes morning tea. ■ 0403 041 499

Walking Netball

U3A Werribee The group is a not-for-profit community organisation for semi-retired and retired Wyndham residents. They hold a variety of classes-activities specifically designed for seniors, including, light physical and mental wellbeing sessions, arts, games and craft, and general classes such as current affairs, history and lunch groups. Most classes-activities are held at Wyndham community centres. ■ Rick, 0402 299 220

Bingo for all The Werribee RSL hosts Bingo every Monday between 12.30-2.30pm. ■ 9741 5525

Young Achievers Foundation The Young Achievers Foundation is a non-profit foundation that supports high performance young people living in Wyndham, Hobsons Bay, Brimbank and Maribyrnong who are aspiring to be elite in their chosen sport or the arts. The Foundation’s major fundraising event, its Golf Day, will be held at the Sanctuary Lakes Golf Club on Friday March 15. You can book as an individual player and the

Wyndham Ladies Probus Are you recently retired or semi-retired? Looking for fun, fellowship and to increase your social networks. The Ladies Probus Club of Wyndham meets on the first Wednesday of each month at Hotel520, Sayers Road, Tarneit, and normally has an outing or event on the third Wednesday of each month. ■ Rosa Sanderson, 0410 303 046

Wyn FM Wyn FM is Wyndham’s community radio station, broadcasting on 88.9 and online from its studios at the Victoria University campus in Werribee. It offers a wide range of programming including music, sport, news and lifestyle shows as well as broadcasts in languages other than English. New broadcasters, volunteers, members and sponsors are always welcome. ■ 9919 8089 or wynfm.org.au

Seniors House of Fun The Grange Community Centre invites seniors of Wyndham to its weekly Seniors House of Fun. This is a free program running every Friday 11am-12.30pm, at The Grange Community Centre, 260-280 Hogans Road, Hoppers Crossing. ■ Vanessa, 8742 8000 or enquires@grangecommunity.org.au Wednesday, 14 February, 2024 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY 11

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SPORTS QUIZ 1. Jakara Anthony won a gold medal for which sport at the 2022 Olympic Winter Games? 2. Which three players have defeated Daniil Medvedev in an Australian Open final?

3. In February, which stadium will host the first WWE event in Australia since 2018?

11. A napkin used by which soccer superstar will be auctioned off in March?

4. Battledore was an early forerunner of which modern game?

12. Matildas coach Tony Gustavsson is from which country?

5. Sydney Swans coach John Longmire played for which VFL/AFL club from 1988-99?

13. Which cricketer won the 2024 Allan Border Medal?

Tony Gustavsson

6. Is a cricket ball or baseball larger?

14. And which cricketer the 2024 Belinda Clark Medal?

7. British athlete Sky Brown is the youngest professional in the world in which sport?

15. In what year was the NRL’s Dally M Medal first awarded?

20.How many times has an Asian country hosted the Summer Olympic Games?

16. The Iron Claw is a 2023 biographical movie about a family involved in which sport?

21. In what year did the Australian Baseball League begin?

17. In what year did Mike Tyson have his last professional fight?

22.Which former WWE wrestler had their acting debut in the movie The Marine?

8. A badminton player must be the first to score how many points, with a two-point lead, in order to win? 9. The 2005 film The Greatest Game Ever Played centres on which sport? 10. Which AFLW club does Darcy Vescio play for?

Mike Tyson

18. Jürgen Klopp is the outgoing manager of which English Premier league club?

25.The term ‘deke’ is most commonly used in which sport? 26.And what does it mean? 27. How many NBL championships does Melbourne United have? 28.MLB team the Tampa Bay Rays were previously known as what?

23.Tennis player Dylan Alcott recently appeared on which Stan TV show?

19. How many teams will compete for the 2024 Formula One World Championship?

29. How many years are there in between each Ashes series? 30.Former footballer Dani Laidley played for which two AFL clubs?

24.Who is the current coach of the GWS Giants AFL team?

1602

1. Skiing (moguls) 2. Novak Djokovic (2021), Rafael Nadal (2022) and Jannik Sinner (2024) 3. Optus Stadium, Perth 4. Badminton 5. North Melbourne 6. Baseball 7. Skateboarding 8. 21 9. Golf 10. Carlton 11. Lionel Messi 12. Sweden 13. Mitchell Marsh 14. Ashleigh Gardner 15. 1979 16. Wrestling 17. 2005 18. Liverpool 19. 10 20. Four (1964, Tokyo, 1988 Seoul, 2008 Beijing, 2020 Tokyo) 21. 2010 22. John Cena 23. Bump 24. Adam Kingsley 25. Ice hockey 26. A fake-out 27. Six 28. The Tampa Bay Devil Rays 29. Two 30. West Coast Eagles and North Melbourne V

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Wednesday, 14 February, 2024 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY 13

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.

easy

1 4 6 1

6 9 8 3 2 7 8 9 2 3 2 7 8 7 5 9 2 6 8 9 7 9 5 6 2 3 medium

4 7 3 5

6 7

6 9 3

1 9 2 4

ACROSS

DOWN

Chic (6) Structure in C programming language (6) Cad (5) Accept reluctantly (9) Russian guitar-like instrument (9) Gods (5) Middle (6) Scheme (4) Pig meat (4) Uniform (6) Beautiful maiden in Muslim paradise (5) Putting others need above their own (9) Heights (9) Seabird excrement (5) Guarantee (6) Rests (6)

1 4 10 11 12 13 14 15 19 20 24 25 27 28 29 30

No. 172

Sexual abstinence (8) Nose like a beak (8) Relating to the stars (7) Coaching (7) Result (6) Blood-sucking African fly (6) Hire-car (4) Even-tempered (7) Reasons (7) Inscribe to (8) Tropical storms (8) Hint (7) Against the law (7) Group of words (6) Fancy hotel rooms (6) Waistband (4)

1 2 3 5 6 7 8 9 16 17 18 19 21 22 23 26

DECODER

No. 172

4 2 1 7

QUICK CROSSWORD

6 8

1 8

5 9 4 hard

9 8

1 6 7 8 4 1 8

8 7 2

10 11 12 13

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

F V T P ZW DM L H X K F B 22

Today’s Aim: 14 words: Good 21 words: Very good

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

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

O R N E

' , 7 + ( 5 ( '

AFOOT ALIEN ALONE ANGEL ATLAS AVAIL CARAT CARGO CHEAP CITED COLON CORDS DEALT DEEDS EDGER EERIE EGGED ICONS IMPLY LAGER LEERY LODGE

4 LETTERS AGES ALLY CASE CASK DEEP IDLE MESH PARE POOR RUSE SLEW STEP TOUR YENS 5 LETTERS ADAGE ADORE

QUICK QUIZ

MANOR NAIVE OCEAN PALED PEEVE POETS PROSE PURRS RAISE RESTS ROGUE ROUGE ROUSE SAUTE SLEET SLIDE SMALL STEEP STONY STREW SWAPS TACOS

Which prime minister committed Australia to the Vietnam War?

Is a rhea a bird, a flower or a type of scarf?

Amy Poehler (pictured) starred as mid-level, small town bureaucrat Leslie Knope in which US sitcom?

Which Australian-British author created the character Mary Poppins?

Is croup typically experienced by children or the elderly?

Referring to the explosive, TNT is an abbreviation of what?

NOTE: more than one solution may be possible

S P A T S W I D O W A L O N E

14 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 14 February, 2024

Insert the missing letters to make 10 words – five reading across the grid and five reading down.

E E P

N E

No. 172

TAPES TEETH TENET TERSE

SOLDIER TEAPOTS TOILETS

6 LETTERS EASELS RASCAL SEDATE SENATE

8 LETTERS DESOLATE DISPLACE DITHERED ENDORSED

7 LETTERS DOLLIES GENTILE RAUCOUS

16-02-24

alacrity, apical, atypic, atypical, capita, capital, carat, carl, carp, carpal, cart, city, clap, clarity, clay, clip, crypt, lacy, laic, lyric, pact, PARALYTIC, pica, piracy, racial, racy, rapacity, talc, typical

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

3 LETTERS ALE ASH ASK ATE EAT EGO EVE GEL HIM ILL IRE LIE MRS ORE OUR OVA SAT SEA SEE SUE UFO VAT WED YES

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”.

29 words: Excellent

hard

medium

9-LETTER WORD

easy

5x5

1 4

3 2

A GU J R IOQN S E Y C

7 9 9 8 2

WORDFIT

Who played Sheldon Cooper on The Big Bang Theory?

In the board game Risk, which continent is worth the most?

The classic children’s character Paddington Bear was said to be a migrant from what country?

10 What is put inside a chicken breast to create the dish chicken kiev?

ANSWERS: 1. Robert Menzies 2. A bird 3. Parks and Recreation 4. P. L. Travers 5. Children 6. Trinitrotoluene 7. Jim Parsons 8. Asia 9. Peru 10. Garlic and butter

No. 172

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

SUDOKU

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

MOTOR

The Camry Hybrid is a class act By Chris Riley Before discussing the Camry Hybrid, it should be pointed out that you can’t actually buy one right now. With a two-year waiting list due to production delays, Toyota Australia has been forced to “pause“ orders for Camry hybrid variants due to extraordinary demand. A new ninth generation Camry was unveiled in the United States in November, so it will be interesting to see how Toyota plays this one. At some point it will have to switch from production of the current model to the new one. Toyota reveals 90 per cent of Camry sales are now the hybrid. This may result in a different specification and/or different price point at the time of delivery.

Styling Sitting long and low, the current model was face-lifted in early 2021, at which point the hybrid became an option for all four grades. The face-lifted model features stronger front-end styling and enhanced safety features, including Toyota Connected Services. Externally, the entry-level Ascent has undergone an extensive transformation at the front end with redesigned bumper and upper and lower grille that features distinctive horizontal bars that offer a more refined aesthetic. Ascent Sport, SX and SL grades received wide flared side fins and a lower spoiler that stretches the width of the car, giving it a wide planted stance while the honeycomb grille mesh adds to its sporty flair. New design wheels ranging from 17- to 19-inch in size were also introduced, SX featuring a black sports finish Prices for Camry kick off at $30,990 for the 2.5-litre petrol Ascent. The Ascent Hybrid is $2500 more at $33,490. Ascent Sport Hybrid is $36,290, SX Hybrid is $39,190 and SL Hybrid is $46,990 – all before on-road costs. Eight bold colours are available, while premium paint adds $575. Our test vehicle was the well-equipped, top of the line SX finished in blue mica metallic, which at $46,990 represents excellent value for money. Entry level Ascent comes with alloy wheels, cloth trim and manual air conditioning, LED lights, with keyless smart entry and start plus two-zone climate control for hybrid models. Ascent Sport gains satellite navigation, while the sporty SX scores sports front seats, 19-inch alloys, sports suspension, paddle shifters and leather-accented trim. SL features heated and cooled front seats, power adjustment for the driver and front passenger seat, with memory and power lumbar adjustment for the driver, electric boot opening, auto-dimming rear-view mirror and a panoramic sunroof. There’s also adaptive cruise control, auto high beam, LED daytime lights, auto lights and wipers, and front and rear parking sensors. A redesigned centre console incorporates a larger standalone 9.0-inch touchscreen that now sits higher above the air vents for easier access and better visibility. SL adds head-up display which projects information on the lower area of the windscreen. Camry is covered by the five-year warranty, with capped-price servicing for the first five years/75,000km with each 12-month/15,000km service costing $220.

Infotainment All models feature the latest generation multimedia system with AM/FM and DAB+ radio, Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay (wireless) and Android Auto (wired) compatibility and myToyota apps including Waze and Stitcher (IOS) and WebEx (Android). Ascent Sport adds satellite navigation with enhanced voice recognition with the SL model delivering superb sound reproduction through a nine-speaker premium JBL audio system.

AT A GLANCE MODEL RANGE Camry Ascent: $34,320 Camry Ascent Hybrid: $36,820 Camry Ascent Sport Hybrid: $39,620 Camry SX Hybrid: $43,020 Camry SL Hybrid: $50,320 SPECIFICATIONS Toyota Camry SL 2.5-litre hybrid petrol-electric four-door sedan

Access to Toyota Connected Services is complimentary for three years. There are two USB-C charge ports in the rear and a USB-A port in the front console as well as a 12V/120W power accessory socket.

Engines / transmissions The 160kW 2.5-litre hybrid powertrain is now offered across the range and accounts for 90 per cent of sales. The hybrid system employs a 2.5-litre four-cylinder Atkinson cycle petrol engine that works in seamless combination with a pair of electric motor generators. Torque is rated as 221Nm which is oddly slightly less than the figure provided for the petrol engine on its own. Petrol Ascent has a conventional eight-speed conventional auto, while the hybrid is equipped with a CVT-style continuously variable automatic.

Safety Camry receives a five-star safety rating but that rating which dates back to 2017 is due to expire in December this year. Dual frontal, side chest, side head-protecting (curtain) and driver knee airbags are standard. Autonomous emergency braking (AEB) with pedestrian and daylight cyclist detection and a lane keep assist (LKA) system with lane departure warning (LDW), plus Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert are also standard. The Toyota Safety Sense suite of safety systems has been enhanced with the addition of road sign assist, emergency steering assist, lane trace assist and intersection turn assist on every model. Connected services can automatically call a 24/7 Toyota Emergency Call Centre and relay the location of the vehicle in the event of a collision that requires intervention, or if an airbag deploys. The driver is also able to request emergency assistance via an SOS button on the overhead console and if the vehicle is reported stolen. It can assist authorities to help track the vehicle’s location via the Stolen Vehicle Tracking (SVT) service.

Driving The combination of the petrol engine and two motor generators delivers seamless, linear power delivery through an electronic continuously variable transmission. There are Eco, Normal and Sport modes, while manual sequential shifting is provided via the shift lever or through paddle shifters on the premium SL and sports SX models. The hybrid system requires no user intervention. It works just like a conventional car and does not require charging from a power outlet compared with an EV or plug-in hybrid. It is a self-charging system that draws power from the brakes, when the car is travelling downhill or in stop-start city driving. It’s a well-proven system that delivers significantly less fuel consumption. With a 50-litre fuel tank, fuel use for the SL is a claimed 4.5L/100km and it takes premium 95 unleaded, but is E10 compatible. We were punching out a consistent 5.2L/100km on a 2100km return trip between Sydney and Brisbane. To put this in perspective the petrol model uses 6.8L/100km -- which is also a very good figure. Interestingly, our SL rides on 18-inch wheels, while the sporty SX gets larger 19s. This is because the ride is fairly firm to start with, so the 18-inch wheels are likely to produce a plusher ride in the luxury model. You could always option it with 19s if this is an issue. Entry Ascent is the only grade that comes with a full-size spare wheel. The others get a space saver (but more boot space as a result). As has long been the case with Toyota hybrids, push the start button and nothing appears to happen. The petrol engine remains dormant but the dash comes to life indicating the system is ready. The engine kicks in once speed exceeds 20km/h, even when EV mode is evoked. The system switches automatically between hybrid and electric mode as driving conditions demand. Scrolling through the driver information display shows the direction of energy. That

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

is when the electric motor and/or the petrol engine is operating, and when power is being fed to the front wheels and battery. Out on the highway Camry hybrid is almost silent, with the dash showing an EV symbol occasionally as it seamlessly cuts in and out, supporting or being charged by the petrol engine. Most of the background noise comes from the 235/45 profile Bridgestone Turanza tyres, which says something about the refinement of the hybrid package. Alas you can’t get a V6 anymore and to be frank we miss the punch of a six, but you’re not buying the Hybrid for its performance -- you’re buying it for economy. Sport mode helps . . . a little. Camry is generally an easy relaxing car to drive, with light steering and surprisingly little tug from the lane assist system, but plenty of annoying chimes. It goes where you point it and stops, rather abruptly in fact if you hit the brakes too firmly. The ride can be harsh at times depending on the road surface, but it’s not a deal breaker. Although if you frequent Sydney’s Parramatta Road you might think otherwise. Adaptive cruise control works well and generally retains the desired speed, but was troubled by a series of small up-and-down hills. It accelerated to accommodate the rise, but failed to adjust quickly enough on the descent, exceeding the set speed by several kilometres per hour. The SatNav can also be slow to respond. The boot is large and deep with a 524-litre capacity in the hybrid.

Summing up The fact there is a two-year waiting list and that Toyota had been forced to cancel further orders for Camry Hybrid speaks bucket loads. Despite the demise of the Falcon and Commodore, it proves there’s still room for traditional family sedans, and it shows this must be a good one. Wednesday, 14 February, 2024 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY 15

SPORT STARWEEKLY.COM.AU There was plenty of sporting action on the action and Star Weekly photographer LJUBICA VRANKOVIC was out there shooting some of the action.

Hitting the grounds with sport

Tyrese Smith-Grant heading for the goal.

Matias Gonzalez.

Warren Kelly.

Enayte Samadi, Tricia Devine, Lucas Sporle, and Ahsan Ebrabhimi.

Fabian Fernando

Enayte Samadi, Tricia Devine, Lucas Sporle, and Ahsan Ebrabhimi. 16 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 14 February, 2024

Darby Hester.

Daniel Maginnis.

Andrew Hendry.

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

SPORT

Big pre-season for West Point On the back of promotion out of FV state league 5 west, West Point is excited for what lies ahead, but there is still plenty of work to be done. After achieving promotion back in August, it seems like a lifetime ago for coach Tome Petrevksi, he said is keen to keep the momentum rolling. “Promotion is always a good feeling, for the coach, for the squad, for the club, it’s our first promotion ever, so obviously, it’s something to celebrate but it feels like so long ago now,” he said. “We’re deep into pre-season and the whole sentiment around the squad is how do we back it up. Because it doesn’t mean too much if we can’t back it up this season. So that’s absolutely what we intend on doing. “Naturally there’s going to be an influx of players and trialists once you get promoted, it becomes more of an enticing destination or option for players. The good thing is, we’ve

managed to keep all of our players from last season and added some quality as well. “We’ve also got a handful of players that we’re looking to bring in but right now where we sit is at the squad selection stage. So we’re just working on fitness and finalising the squad, our aim is to have it finalised within the next couple of weeks for our Australia Cup game.” After drawing the bye in round one, West Point is straight through to the second round, where it will face Barnstoneworth United on February 25. “At this early stage of the season, playing a competitive game is good, it’s exciting, but it’s also a challenge with a lot of players not being at the required fitness level to play 90 minutes yet,” Petrevksi said. “It’s probably a bit of a blessing and gives us a couple of extra weeks with some flexibility to work and getting through to the second round against a club from our league was another

little surprise. “We will prepare diligently for it… we’re excited for it, our first competitive hit out. All the players are buzzing for it.” Beyond the Australia Cup hit-out, West Point focuses its attention to its first state 4 fixture in late March, however Petrevksi said there is still a lot of water to go under the bridge before it. “We’re keen but also keeping in mind that you have to take it one training session at a time,” he said. “It’s six weeks away and it’ll come very very quickly, but at the end of the day, six weeks to me means 12 training sessions, six more games. “We need to make sure when we get to the 24th of March, we need to be ready to go, we’ve got our squad set, we’ve got players in a good physical condition and a good head space to be able to tackle it.” Harper Sercombe

West Point (Supplied)

Rocci hoping to learn off the best By Harper Sercombe Australian Opal and two-time Women’s National Basketball League champion Maddy Rocci has returned back to her home of the west for the upcoming National Basketball League 1 South season. Rocci landed at Keilor following the club’s announcement of Australian basketballing royalty Kristi Harrower coming on board as coach. The Thunder announced that the Southside Flyers’ point guard and Opals’ squad member would be joining the new-look Thunder side in early February. As Harrower also played as guard, Rocci said she can’t wait to learn off one of the best Australians to ever do it. “I’m really excited to be coached by Kristi Harrower, everyone knows that she’s a legend of the game,” she said. “To be able to learn off her and pick her brains is something that I’m super excited about.

‘‘

We believe her presence on the court will not only enhance our performance but also inspire our players to reach new heights

’’

- Kristi Harrower “When I played in the Asia Cup in Sydney I had a little bit of time with her and I met with her after games and discussed some things. I really enjoyed what she had to say and I think it definitely helped me so to have her for a full season in my off season is only going to make me better. “I think the point guard position is one that you need to have a very high IQ for and I think she definitely had that when she played. For me, I’m always willing to learn and grow.” Harrower said she shared the delight of Rocci to be at the Thunder. With the coach expecting her to make an immediate impact on the team. “We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Maddy to the Keilor Thunder family. Maddy’s skill set, leadership, and competitive spirit align perfectly with our team’s values,” she said. “We believe her presence on the court will not only enhance our performance but also inspire our players to reach new heights.” Another driving force behind Rocci’s decision to head to Keilor for the 2024 season, is returning closer to her home in Werribee. “I’ve had a lot of time away from the NBL1 South playing in Queensland, so to come back and to play on the west, which is my side of

Maddi Rocci with the Southside Flyers. (AAP Image/Morgan Hancock) Below: Rocci during the Asia Cup. (AAP Image/Mark Evans)

town, is super exciting” she said. “With my family all being in Werribee and Keilor being pretty close, it was an easy decision for me.” Before the season at the Thunder starts, Rocci still has matches to come for her Melbourne-based WNBL club the Southside Flyers. The Flyers are currently second on the ladder, with three home and away games to come. This season with the Flyers, she’s averaging 10.4 points, 4.7 assists and 3.8 rebounds per game. Should the Flyers make it to the grand final series, her season with the club would finish on March 18, with the Thunder season starting under two weeks later on April 5. “It’s hard mentally to go from season to season, I’ve finally kind of got used to it now,” she said. “Going off the back of a WNBL season coming off the back of a championship, I would hope, and then to Keilor doesn’t really bother me not having that little break. “I’m just keen to go from one club to the other and get stuck into things.” While things are going nicely for Rocci at

the Flyers, she was overlooked for the Opals Olympic qualifying tournament in Brazil, which kicked off on Friday. Rocci was originally named in the 20-player squad that was cut down to 12 for the three game tour. With the July’s Paris Olympics just around the corner, Rocci said she is desperate to get herself back into the Opals outfit. “Obviously, there was some major disappointment when I missed out on the

tournament they’ve gone off to play in Brazil,” she said. “But it’s only going to make me stronger and better as a player and I think as much as that disappointment hurts there’s still that goal to go to Paris and will do everything possible [to get there]. “To have Kristi now in that little season before Paris is picked, will definitely help me as well I think.” Joining Rocci at the Thunder for the upcoming season is rising Adelaide Lightning star Isabelle Bourne who is making the move across to Victoria. “I actually went to the AIS [Australian Institute of Sport] with Izzy which was a little while ago now, but you can just see that her game’s developed so much playing against her in the WNBL this year,” Rocci said. “I’m super excited to play with a big who has a lot of talent and hopefully we can do really well in the NBL1 season this year.” Thunder junior and Melbourne Boomers development player Grace Graham is also part of the squad. The Thunder are set to kick off the season against the Frankston Blues on April 5. Wednesday, 14 February, 2024 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY 17

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Giants growing as their season progresses Coming off just its second loss in the Baseball Victoria state league firsts season, Werribee remains in a strong position at the top of the ladder. After losing last weekend, this weekend the Giants enjoyed the bye as they get ready for the final five games of the regular season. Giants’ coach Andrew Christou said he is pleased with where his side currently stands. “Yeah we’re pretty happy at the moment,” he said. “Getting towards the tail end of the season so we’re just trying to get the team healthy and build some momentum into the finals.” With the frequency of games about to drop coming into finals, with the last midweek game taking place this week, Christou said it’s a good time to get players experience before the post season matches.

“At the moment we’re getting some of the guys from the reserves playing and getting more of an opportunity because that becomes important once you get into finals,” he said. “The reserves end up playing a bit more in different situations so just getting a bit more experience for everybody and keeping the momentum going. “We’re right in the middle of the busiest part so it’s nice to have the bye then everything kind of leans out again and gets back to the weekends and it goes pretty well after that and it’ll be finals time soon which should be good.” Christou said that the bye has come at the ideal time for the Giants as they prepare for a Tuesday night clash with Ormond GH, which was after deadline. “It’s good timing after a couple of

mid-weekers, everyone gets a weekend off which is nice and back into it during the week, so it’s good timing,” he said. “They (Ormond) are a really good team, so it should be a tough game and everybody has plenty to play for, but with them sitting in fourth they have a bit more on the line so it should be a really competitive game.” Sitting clear at the top of the ladder is where Christou said he wants to stay heading into finals. “We’d love to finish on top, win the minor premiership and then take it from there,” he said. “We want to just play our best going forward, you always play to win and what happens, happens but we want to keep that momentum going and keep playing good baseball to carry us through.” Harper Sercombe

Briefs Matildas Western United’s Chloe Logarzo is back in the Matildas squad for the upcoming Olympic qualifiers against Uzbekistan. It represents a return to Matildas’ camp for the first time since November 2022 and is just reward for Logarzo following the journey that she has been on the last 18 months. After a cruel spell of injuries saw her miss out on last year’s FIFA Women’s World Cup, Logarzo has returned to top form. Through 14 appearances this A-League women season, Western United’s co-captain has been one of the best players in the competition, scoring five goals and providing two assists.

VTCA Bellbridge’s dream run in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association T20 competition is over. After winning their first final in the shortest format, the Bears were knocked out for Roxburgh Park last Tuesday. The Falcons made 8-129 from their overs, with the Bears falling just short, finishing 7-125. Amari Ebbin top scored for the Bears with 52.

VPL

Eddy Williamson (Ljubica Vrankovic)

Bees cause an upset By Tara Murray Werribee has thrown open the race for a top two spot while keeping alive its small minor premiership hopes in the Bowls Victoria weekend pennant, division 2, section 2 competition. The Bees took on ladder leaders Bacchus Marsh on Saturday and were able to come away with the points after trailing for much of the day. The Bees managed to get the win, 77 (15)-61 (3) on Bacchus Marsh’s home green. Chair of selectors and one of the top side’s skips, Mick O’Neil said it was a pretty handy win in the context of the season. “They beat us at home last time,” he said. “We had a couple of skips out with COVID so we went in understrength “To go up there and beat them with a couple of skips missing was really good. We trailed them for the first three quarters of the game before we got on top in the closing stages.” Nick Alderson and Robert Smith, who were filling in skipping with Brendan Barker and 18 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 14 February, 2024

Rob Panton both missing, were the winning skips. Alderson’s rink was the one that got them over the line, winning 27-10. Gavin Joyce’s rink had to share the points, while O’Neil’s rink went down. O’Neil said it had been good the last two weeks to get wins with Barker and Panton missing the week before as well after being away. He said they would both be welcomed back this week and they tried to lock in a top two spot. The result and Deer Park 2 suffering a shock loss opened the race for the top two. Bacchus Marsh sits on top, eight points clear of the Bees and Deer Park 2. The Bees currently sit in second on score difference. Keilor will finish fourth. The Bees face Club Sunbury 2 in the final round on Saturday. Sunbury sits in seventh spot. O’Neil said they were hoping to finish the regular season on a strong note. “If we can have a good win, hopefully if

we can win all the rinks we’ll seal a top two position,” he said. It was a tough day for the rest of the Bees sides, all suffering losses. Three other teams remain in finals contention, with one needing everything to go its way to move into the top four. In other results, Hoppers fell just short of making it two in a row in division 3, section 1. After getting their first win of the season the previous round, the Hawks lost to Deer Park 3, 78 (12)-77 (6). Victor Rivera, Edward Szuszkiewicz and Mark Coleman were the winning skips for the Hawks. The Hawks finish their season against Altona Sports. Palm Lake suffered a close loss to ladder leaders Williamstown in its match. Williamstown came away with the points, 74 (14)-66 (4). David Manning and Patricia Thick were the winning skips for Palm Lake. Palm Lake sits in seventh spot.

Werribee City started the Victorian Premier League 1 competition in winning fashion. Facing North Geelong Warriors, who have dropped a division, the Bees scored twice in the opening half to take the ascendancy of the match. A third goal in the second half sealed the 3-0 win. Ibrahim Mohamed, Thomas Bliss and Dante Siccita were the goal scorers. Werribee City faces Caroline Springs George Cross on Saturday night in round two.

Western United Aimee Medwin will give Western United a significant boost for the remainder of the A-League women season after rejoining the club. Medwin made an immediate impression in her nine appearances for Western United last season before her campaign was cruelly cut short by an ACL injury. The 24-year-old has remained in connection with the club throughout her rehabilitation program and is now ready to step back into her number five jersey alongside her teammates. FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Wyndham Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Bishop-Worn gets an Australia under-18 call up Werribee’s Addison Bishop-Worn has been selected as one of 43 players selected for Australia’s under-18 baseball squad to head to America later this year. The squad will head to the USA in September and October to play games in front of a big audience of scouts and college recruiters, with it being an off-year for the under-18 World Cup. Selected off the back of the recent under-18 Australian youth championships, in which Bishop-Worn was a pivotal player to Victoria winning, the national squad will head to Florida to play in the highest level tournaments outside of World Cup events. The training sessions and games will be played in front of professional scouts and college recruiters, while coming up against the best high-school players in the USA who are already committed to top division 1 schools. When Bishop-Worn found out he said he was so overwhelmed, he didn’t know what to think.

“I couldn’t really think to be honest, I was a bit speechless,” he said. The young-gun said the tournament win with Victoria was fantastic and his triple in the bottom of the fourth innings to give the winning run for his state was something that he’d never forget. “That performance was amazing, finally getting that gold with all the boys,” he said. “We’ve previously played two tournaments with all the same boys, so to finally get that gold was incredible. “I was so excited, I was speechless. It was amazing to score the winning run and put us through to the gold medal.” While Bishop-Worn was busy playing with the 18s, his younger brother Cooper was at the same tournament with Victoria’s under-16s side, which Bishop-Worn was a great experience. “That was definitely one of the highlights of

my baseball career so far, that was really good,” he said. With scouts and recruiters set to scour over the team when they hit the states, Bishop-Worn doesn’t want to think too much about it and focus on the task at hand. “It fills me with a bit of confidence but I’ll try to not let it get to my head and keeping my cool,” he said. “That [reaching the MLB] is my goal, but however far it’ll take me I guess, so I’ll see how it goes.” While he is frequently busy with other commitments, Bishop-Worn said he loves to head down to his home club of the Werribee Giants whenever he can, and line up in the firsts team with his brother. “Of course, the atmosphere down there, all the coaches, it’s just amazing,” he said. Bishop-Worn is one of nine Victorians selected for the trip.

Addison Bishop-Worn (Supplied)

Tigers cement top six spot

Kyle Hartigan (Werribee Football Club)

Hartigan goes full circle By Harper Sercombe It’s a full circle moment for Werribee’s Kyle Hartigan as he returns to the club as an assistant coach for the Victorian Football League season. In 2009 Hartigan was overlooked in the AFL draft and made the call to travel down the highway to Chirnside Park. After three years of not being picked up while plying his trade at Werribee, his moment finally came in the 2012 off-season. When Adelaide selected the key defender with pick 14 of the rookie draft. He went on to play 135 top-level games, 113 at the Crows and 22 with Hawthorn. Now, he has found his way back to the club, in charge of the defenders for 2024. Hartigan said he is not only there to see team success but to help players like him create an AFL career from the club. “I wanted to get back involved with such a good footy club, with so many great people,” he said. “I think that’s probably what’s key to the footy club, there’s just so many great people that are invested in the club and want success there. They’re amazing and supporting their players and their people and getting the best

out of them. “They certainly did that for me. Back when I was playing there and guys like Mark Penaluna, Scott West, Simon Atkins and Paul Satterley who coached me and were definitely instrumental in me getting drafted. “I just wanted to give back to the club that had given me so much… and get involved and hopefully find the next player that will be able to reach their potential and maybe help them get drafted into the AFL and also hopefully we can have some team success like they had last year and hopefully, go one better. “But they’ve opened me back with open arms and it’s been really good so far.” Hartigan said the better the club can foster players and coaches through to the AFL, the better their on field successes will be, and vice versa. “When you have success, it makes people want to come and play at the footy club,” he said. “But also guys getting drafted, people look around and go, ‘how about all these guys getting drafted or rookied or get an opportunity in the AFL from Werribee, that’s the club I want to go to’

“That just makes people want to come to the footy club and it makes it a lot easier if you have guys that want to come there. It makes success a lot easier. “I think that’s been the backbone over the last 15 years.” While there has been plenty of player and staff turnover this off season for Werribee, it all leans into what he has said about the club. With last season’s coach Mick Barlow heading to North Melbourne, and Sam Clohesy and Shaun Mannagh getting AFL opportunities at Gold Coast and Geelong respectively. “There’s been a lot of transition and, and that’s great,” he said. “Obviously you lose really good people, but those people are moving onto bigger and better things and the Werribee footy club’s been able to provide them with the opportunities. “Like Mick to go into the AFL, you know, we lose a really good coach, but now it provides an opportunity for Jimmy Allen to show his wares. “Obviously, we want success but to develop players and get them drafted and make them achieve their potential then we feel like we’re doing the job and if we can do that, then we feel like successful will be able to come.”

Werribee cemented its spot in the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association north-west top six with back-to-back wins on the weekend. Starting the weekend in sixth spot with a number of teams on their tail, the Tigers were keen to get a couple more wins on the board. On Saturday, they did a demolition job on Melton. The Lions won the toss and decided to bat at home. The Lions got to 11 before losing their first wicket but once they started falling, they kept falling. They were bowled out for a disappointing 34 in just 19.4 overs. Not one batter reached double figures with Conrad Farrugia top scoring with just eight. Jonathan Burton took 4-2 for the Tigers. The Lions got off to an ideal start in the run chase, taking the early wicket of Adam Alifraco. The joy would be short lived with the Tigers getting the runs within 10 overs, finishing 3-36. Brad Jones had two wickets for the Lions. On Sunday, the Tigers faced Preston in a catch up match for round seven. The Tigers made 7-216 from their overs. Skipper Tim O’Brien top scored with 65 while Nathan Taylor scored 59. Preston was in trouble early at 5-24 before they started a fightback putting on nearly 90 for the sixth wicket partnership. Once that partnership was broken, the Tigers were able to run through the tail, bowling them out for 158. Burton continued his good weekend, taking 4-18. The two wins moved the Tigers into fourth spot, now eight points clear of seventh placed Hoppers Crossing. The Cats sit two points behind fifth placed Altona. On the weekend, the Cats split their matches. On Saturday, the Cats beat Brunswick. The Cats finished 5-174 in reply to 170. On Sunday, the Cats fell 40 runs short against Williamstown. The Seagulls made 7-153 from their overs with the Cats being bowled out for 113 in reply.

Wednesday, 14 February, 2024 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY 19

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