Star Weekly - Wyndham - 28th February 2024

Business on the brink

By Cade Lucas

The possible liquidation of construction company Apex Homes could leave a Point Cook demolition business more than $20,000 out of pocket.

Melbourne Wide Demolition was last year hired by Apex to clear a property in Geelong ahead of construction of a new home beginning on the site.

After completing the demolition work, the company submitted an invoice to Apex Homes for $21,450 to be paid by mid January.

After the payment deadline was missed and repeated attempts to contact the company failed, Melbourne Wide Demolition director Moira Linton said news of a winding up order being taken out against Apex made her realise the money may never arrive.

“Just gutted actually,” said Ms Linton of her reaction to the news which she came across while doing a Google search.

Concreting company Aerolink Pty Ltd, trading as Midway, has lodged an application to have Apex Homes wound up over unpaid debts of more than $46,000.

The application was lodged on January 29, but only made public on February 15.

The application will be heard in the Victorian Supreme Court on Thursday, with speculation at least three other creditors may join the action.

Apex Homes has signalled it will fight liquidation.

Apex director Bruno Luciani refused to comment when contacted by the Star Weekly while fellow director Tom Tasci failed to respond to inquiries.

The North Melbourne based builder has customers across Wyndham, Geelong and other parts of Melbourne, with many now at risk of losing their deposits and homes if it is forced into liquidation.

One Apex customer Star Weekly spoke with on condition of anonymity, said they had already paid the company more than $100,000 for a home that may never be built.

“I don’t even know what to say, I’m so stressed out,” they said, adding that Apex had emailed them last week saying they would try to fix the problem, but offering no further assurances.

AnothercustomerspokentobyStarWeekly said they paid a $16,000 deposit to Apex in June last year so construction of their new home could commence.

However,eightmonthson,thelandonwhich the home was to be built remains untouched and after last week demanding Apex repay

their deposit, they were told the money had gone on administrative paperwork. Moira Linton said while not being paid the

moneythey’reowedwouldleaveaholeintheir balance sheet, Melbourne Wide Demolition would survive. Just.

“We’re probably on the brink,” she said. “This is one problem we’ve had. If we have another one, we’re definitely gone.”

Moira Linton from Point Cook company, Melbourne Wide Demolition, which claims it is owed more that $20,000 by liquidation threatened builder Apex Homes. (Damjan Janevski) 390954_01

Boost for federal food funding

Charities across the western suburbs will share in $1.6 million in federal government funding to help them provide emergency food relief.

The funding announced last week is part of the $14.4 million Emergency Relief and Food Reliefpackagedeliverednationallytoproviders of essential items, such as vouchers, food, and clothing.

The charities in Melbourne’s west to receive funding are Sacred Heart Mission, Australian Multicultural Community Services, Community Information & Support Victoria, The Salvation Army, Uniting, Victorian

Aboriginal Child Care Agency Co-operative, CatholicCare and Anglicare.

Anglicare Victoria’s Emergency Relief Services Coordinator for the western suburbs, Suzanne Keil, said the funding was a welcome response to the increase in families and working Victorians who were reaching out to the agency for help.

“Weknowfamiliesinthewestarefeelingthe crunch as the cost of everything rises, with our metro emergency relief programs seeing a 40 per cent jump in new families and individuals asking for our help,” Ms Keil said.

“A lot of these families, about 70 per cent,

are private renters coming to Anglicare Victoria for help after a year of frequent increases and high rents. Many people we see can’t afford their rent, but they can’t afford to move, so in desperation they find themselves depending on Emergency Relief support to survive. “About one in every three people we’re seeing have energy bills they can’t pay or are falling behind on payment plans because they can’t cover rising energy costs. One family said the other day they just don’t turn on their air conditioner anymore. We’ve had some absolutely sweltering days in the west this summer, but the stress of what

Litter legends get busy cleaning up

Clean Up Australia Day mightn’t be until this Sunday, but a group of Wyndham locals warmed up for the big day with a litter collection session along Skeleton Creek in Hoppers Crossing on Monday morning.

Volunteers from the Werribee River Association and affiliated community groups, Love Or Street 3024, Love Our Street 3030 Point Cook, Love Our Street 3030 Werribee and Beach Patrol 3030, gathered to pick up litter along the creek, the same place where Clean Up Australia Day events will be held on March 3.

The Werribee River Association have undertaken litter collection work since it

commenced in the early 1980’s, with most yearspartneringwithcommunityandbusiness groups to host Clean Up Australia Day events too.

The association’s Lisa Field said whether it was a Clean Up Australia Day event or just one of their regular sessions, picking up litter was bothafunactivityforvolunteersandavaluable service for the community.

“Our clean-ups not only help in maintaining the beauty of local waterways but also raises awareness about the importance of environmental stewardships and the positive steps community members can make in keeping their neighbourhoods and surrounds

cleaner and healthier for all.”

TheCleanUpAustraliaDayeventatSkeleton

Creek is from 10.30am to 12.00pn on Sunday March 3, with litter removal focused on the stretch of creek at the rear of Anaconda, 323 Old Geelong Road, Hoppers Crossing.

Theeventwillsuitindividualsaswellassmall and large groups, with all equipment provided.

Those with special needs or coming with a large group are encouraged to register beforehand.

For more information visit https:// werribeeriver.org.au/ and https://www. cleanup.org.au/.

it would cost them to run the aircon was too overwhelming.”

Anglicare, like the other charities receiving funding, operates throughout the western suburbs, including in Wyndham, Brimbank, Hobsons Bay and Maribyrnong. SusanKeilsaidanyoneinthosemunicipalities whowasstrugglingtoputfoodonthetableand make ends meet, should get in touch.

“We can connect you with all kinds of support,fromthatemergencyrelieftofinancial counselling, mental health and more. We’re here to help.”

Cade Lucas

Spartan races into Wyndham

WerribeeRacecoursewillbetransformed fromahorseracingtrackintoanobstacle course this August when Spartan race events come to the venue.

Billed as “an event of pure primitive craziness that you’ll never forget”, Spartan is the world’s leading obstacle race series. Spartan Australia has signed a three-year agreement to host its events at Werribee Racecourse with the first to be held on August 3 and 4.

Wyndham mayor Jennie Barrera, said “We are excited and honoured that Spartan Australia will be delivering events right here in Wyndham over the next three years”.

“Thisweekend-longeventistheperfect opportunity for participants to enjoy all the great accommodation, food, nature and cultural experiences that Werribee and surrounds has to offer.

I’m looking forward to seeing participants in action down at Werribee Racecourseandcheeringthemonasthey work together to tackle each obstacle.”

Spartan Australia CEO Russell Nelms said the decision to host the events in Werribee was a strategic one, aimed at combining a great racing experience with all the other attractions Wyndham had to offer. Adult competitors have the choice of a five kilometre sprint race featuring 20 obstacles, or a 10 kilometre super course with 25 obstacles.

There’s also a kid’s race featuring obstacles over one to three kilometres and is open to children aged from four to 14.

Schools encouraged to help create more green spaces

Wyndham schools are invited to get involved in Greater Western Water’s (GWW) Trees for Schools program to help increase tree canopy cover and create more green spaces for everyone to enjoy.

Up to 4000 native trees are available as part of the program, which GWW will distribute through an expression of interest process open to every primary and secondary school located in their service area.

Eligible schools will be given up to 50 trees, along with stakes and guards to protect the trees until they can grow independently.

Mapping and analysis has shown the western region currently has the lowest tree canopy cover in Melbourne at 5.5 per cent. In comparison, canopy cover in the eastern suburbs is 25.9 per cent.

GWW’s general manager of strategy and partnerships Kessia Thomson is encouraging all eligible schools to get involved and contribute to a greener, healthier western region and a more climate resilient future.

“Tree canopy improves air quality, cooling through shading and provides habitats for birds, insects and some mammals,” she said.

“The program will not only raise awareness about the benefits of green spaces and how trees help to reduce urban heat, but also providesanopportunityforanactivelearning environment.

“Students can participate in preparing sites, planting trees and doing general maintenance and watering.”

Ms Thomson said GWW hopes to build on the success of last year’s program where 27 schools in the region received more than 1000 trees to plant.

GWW’s service area covers the local government areas of Moorabool, Melton, Brimbank, Hobsons Bay, Maribyrnong, Moonee Valley, Wyndham and Yarra, and parts of Hume, Macedon Ranges and Melbourne.

Expressions of interest are open until Monday, April 22.

Details:

https://shorturl.at/acew2v

Volunteers (from left) Maryann Weatherill, Rob Bradley, Jess Fairfax, Colin Styles and June Styles, collected litter at Skeleton Creek on February 26 in preparation for Clean Up Australia Day on March 3. (Lisa Field) 391483_01

Cemetery complaints flood in

By Cade Lucas

More complaints have been made about the condition of Werribee Cemetery following reports in the Star Weekly over the past two weeks.

Responding to stories of overgrown grass and vegetation (February 14) and local residents being denied burial plots due to a lack of room (February 21), Pauline Soulsby of Bacchus Marsh approached Star Weekly with her concerns about Werribee Cemetery which she has been visiting since her sister was buried there in 1974. Ms Soulsby’s sister, along with both her parents, are buried in the cemetery’s Catholic section near the boundary with the

neighbouring housing commission estate.

She said that whenever there was heavy rain their graves would flood due to poor drainage, with water sometimes rising as much as six inches up the monument.

Ms Soulsby claimed botched rectification works from cemetery staff had caused the flooding problems.

“Originally there was a culvert there and the water would escape,” she said.

“Howeverintheirwisdom,theydecidedtofill in the culvert without any piping underneath it. They put it in there in the hope that the water would seep away better, however it didn’t because they never put any proper drainage in under that gravel that they put down.”

MsSoulsbysaidshe’drepeatedlycomplained to the Greater Metropolitan Cemeteries Trust (GMCT) that manages Werribee Cemetery, about the flooding, but to no avail.

During a particularly bad flood two years ago she almost gave up. “We drove down there one day in particular and came in off the main road,inontothegravelroad,andthewaterwas just flowing. It was so upsetting.”

In response GMCT chief operations officer DimiPatisissaidthetrustdidactoncomplaints and encouraged family members and residents to do so.

“We are happy to resolve any customer concerns through our regular communication channels and encourage them to call us on

Family talkin’ about five generations

There are family get-togethers and then there’s what Werribee’s Spicer family experienced on Sunday February 18.

Coming from Werribee and parts of country Victoria,theSpicer’sgottogethertovisitfamily matriarch, 92 year old Dorothy Anchen, at her home at Glendale aged care home.

ThereasonforthevisitwassoDorothycould finally meet her family’s latest addition, four month old Hayley Joy. Not only was it the first time the whole Spicer family had been together since Haylee Joy’s birth on October 5 last year,

but it was their first gathering as a family spanning a remarkable five generations.

Bringing Haylee Joy to meet her great-greatgrandmother on that Sunday was her 25 year old mother, Tracey Lee of Broadford, Tracey’s 45 year old father, Mark Spicer of Werribee and his 73 year old father and Dorothy’s son, Graham Spicer, also of Werribee.

Also there was Dorothy’s daughter and Graham Spicer’s sister, Gail Makinson, she too of Werribee. Unsurprisingly, Ms Makinson said her mother was thrilled with the visit.

Dogs set to be let off-leash

Tails are set to wag in Point Cook with a tender awarded for the construction of The Strand Dog Off-Leash Park.

Situated in The Strand and Boardwalk Boulevard in Point Cook, the forthcoming park will feature a dedicated off-leash area with three zones: a spacious lawn area for dogs to play, an agility equipped activity space, and a quiet area for smaller and older dogs.

Otherfeaturesincludeadrinkingfountain, new concrete path, seating, dog litter bag dispenser and bins.

Wyndham councillor Robert Szatkowski said the construction of the dog park will be an asset to the residents of Point Cook.

“This new dog park is not just about

wagging tails, it’s about fostering a stronger sense of community and enhancing the wellbeing of both pets and their owners –I’m proud to see this space come to life,” Cr Szatkowski said.

“This project is being delivered as part of the Wyndham Dog Off-Leash Plan 2022 and Wyndham’s Open Space Strategy, both of which strive to provide accessible and well-connected open spaces.”

Construction of the new dog park is expected to begin in the coming weeks and be finished by mid-year.

For more information: https://www. wyndham.vic.gov.au/wyndham-dog-leashplan

“Oh mum was just overjoyed. She lives for her family,” she said.

Having five generations of the one family alive at the same time is a rarity, though in the case of Ms Makinson, not so much.

Remarkably, it’s not even the first instance in her own family.

“My daughter was a fifth generation when she was born through my husband’s side,” she said. “I’m hoping longevity runs in the family.”

It seems pretty clear that it does.

CadeLucas

1300 022 298,” Mr Patisis said in a statement. It’s not the first time Ms Soulsby has had to complaintothetrustabouttheconditionofher family’s graves.

In 2018, her parents’ graves were damaged when a staff member accidentally backed over them while operating machinery

She said it took more than 12 months for the gravestoberepaired.MsSoulsbysaidtraveling to other cemeteries throughout Victoria only highlighted what a poor state Werribee was in.

“Wecallintoacemeterywheremyhusband’s family are buried in a little place called Rheola. That cemetery is pristine,” she said.

“And we’ve got Werribee and as far as I’m concerned, it’s a total disgrace.”

Youth survey now open

Wyndham’s young people have the chance to shape the council programs and services that affect them with the biennial Youth Survey now underway.

Young people aged 12-25 are encouraged to share their thoughts and opinions on a range of topics relating to safety, their interests and mental health among other topics with the responses providing a snapshot of who young people are in Wyndham, their challenges and expectations.

To encourage participation, those who take the survey can choose to go in thedrawtowinabrand-newPlayStation 5 Slim Digital Edition Console with 2 controllers. Wyndham mayor Jennie Barrera said council was committed to ensuring that all young people have the opportunity to participate and engage in the social, economic and cultural life of the municipality.

“As a council we provide a range of programs from activities during the holidays, battle of the bands and opportunities for them to develop skills and training,” she said.

“Our City’s population is rapidly growing and nearly 60 per cent of residents are aged below 35 and just under half of Wyndham households are families with children, the majority with children under the age of 15.”

For further information, drop-in sessions will be held at Eagle Stadium, Werribee on Saturday March 2 and AquaPulse, Hoppers Crossing on Wednesday April 3.

Feedback can be provided until May 6 at: https://theloop.wyndham.vic.gov.au/ wyndham-youth-

•

•

Werribee’s Dorothy Achen (sitting) holding her great-great-grandaughter

Haley Joy surrounded by three other generations of her family. (supplied) 391099_01

New friends are good company

By Cade Lucas

Loneliness can affect people of any age, but for the elderly, the deaths of family and friends combined with a lack of mobility, can make it especially problematic.

Which is why Hoppers Crossing’s Edith Clarke is so appreciative of the friendship she’s developed with Truganina’s Rochelle Gore over the past year or so.

Despite an age difference measured in decades and which could easily make them grandmother and granddaughter, Edith and Rochelle have been catching up once a fortnight since December 2022.

It’s a connection that the older of the two values highly.

“I certainly look forward to my visits with Rochelle,” said Edith.

“She is such a lovely, kind person. We spend our visits going out for lunch at the (Werribee) plaza, where we also like to go window shopping. We also spend our visits at local shops up the road. We get on really well and always have a lovely time.” Rochelle agrees.

“I’ve loved getting to know Edith and spending time with her,” she said.

“Whether it’s grabbing a coffee or walking around the plaza, we always have a good time together.”

As heartwarming as this generation spanning friendship is, it’s not one that came out of nowhere.

Both Edith and Rochelle were brought together through In Great Company, a not-for-profit program aimed at combating loneliness among older people by pairing them with younger volunteers.

In Great Company’s Victorian volunteer coordinator, Gemma Merrick, explained how it worked.

“We receive referrals and clients need to be receiving a homecare package or be on the waiting list for one,” she said of how they find elderly people in need of a friend.

These elderly clients are then matched with volunteers to which they are most suitable.

“We get their likes and interests and we get the client’s likes and interests and we try and match them the best we can.”

In Great Company have recently branched

into Victoria, including Wyndham, and are on the lookout for volunteers aged 18 and above.

Ms Merrick said there were other guidelines that prospective companions needed to abide by.

“Anybody that can spare and hour a week or two hours a fortnight is welcome, but it requires a minimum commitment of 6 months,” she said.

“It does take a while to grow a friendship.”

Once established though, the experience of Edith and Rochelle shows how beneficial those friendships can have.

“This has had such a positive impact on me as I am unable to drive meaning I cannot get out as much as I would like,” said Edith.

And while not designed to benefit her, Rochelle said being matched with Edith has anyway.

“Visiting Edith has brought such joy into my life and it brings me such pleasure to know I’m helping keep Edith connected to the community”.

More information: https://www. ingreatcompany.com.au/

Affordable pet vaccination clinic for Wyndham

Pet owners in Truganina and Tarneit are getting a boost, with RSPCA Victoria reintroducing low-cost pet vaccination clinics in March.

Amid the cost-of-living crisis, these clinics will help make vaccinations and health checks more accessible.

For a fee of $59, an RSPCA veterinarian will give a dog or cat their preventative vaccines and ensure the pets are fit for their vaccinations.

TheHeadofPreventionforRSPCAVictoria, Rebecca Cook said they looked forward to helping more Melbourne pet owners.

“At our recent clinic in Manor Lakes we saw 20 local pets and their owners, and we saw 14 local pets at our recent Tarneit clinic,“ Ms Cook said.

“Wecan’twaittohittheroadagainandlook forward to meeting more furry friends.“

The RSPCA can provide pet owners with professional advice on how to keep their pets healthy.

Due to the nationwide F3 vaccine shortage, the team can only conduct basic health checks for cats.

The clinics will run at the Arndell Park Community Centre on Wednesday, March 6, and at the Tarneit Community Learning Centre on Thursday, March 14.

Duetolimitedspotavailability,peoplemust book appointments in advance through the RSCPA website.

Those with more than one pet must book a separate appointment for each animal.

For bookings, visit rspcavic.org/ vaccinationclinics.

- Anne Parisianne

‘Light at the end of the tunnel’ needed for businesses

Businesseses in Melbourne’s west and north-west are among the most likely to fail in Victoria according to new data from CreditorWatch.

CreditorWatch’s Business Risk Index (BRI) analyses the credit information of more than 5000 registered Australian businesses across 300 regions to provide a snapshot of the best and worst performing regions.

The latest data shows seven of the eight regions in Victoria where businesses are projected most likely to default in the next year are in Melbourne’s west and north-west.

Melton is the third-worst performing region in the state, with a projected 6.89 per cent default rate, however it has improved

since September 2022 when it had the highest risk in Victoria at 7.2 per cent.

Also in the eight most likely to default is Brimbank, Tullamarine-Broad Meadows, Wyndham, Maribyrnong, Hobsons Bay and Whittlesea-Wallan.

The region most likely to default in the state is Casey-South, with a rate of 7.01 per cent.

CreditorWatch chief executive Patrick Coghlan said while you can have really good quality businesses in the highest credit-risk regions, the data shows that the conditions and the businesses within those areas have a higher chance of failing than those other areas.

“What we find is rental and property

costs are carrying a far heavier burden in [Melbourne’s west and north-west] than the average Australian region.

We also find that population population density is very high, so that means there’s a high level of competition.

“And then the third [factor] is probably the economic opportunity overall.”

Mr Coghlan said it’s typical to see clusters of regions performing in a similar matter.

“The knock on effect can be quite significant in that there’s a higher likelihood of unemployment there’s also less money around within that area for businesses and consumers so, so all people and businesses suffer as a result,” he said.

“It’s a vicious cycle.”

Mr Coghlan said the biggest drivers that could help improve the situation include reducing inflation and cutting interest rates.

“Ultimately, that’ll drive investment and confidence within the business community,” he said.

“I think overall, we’ll get some good news probably around the middle of the year when we start to get some certainty as to when those cuts might come.

“Having that sort of light at the end of the tunnel is really valuable and powerful for businesses of all sizes.”

- Liam McNall

The RCPA is offering vaccinations for dogs (Supplied)

Edith Clarke of Hoppers Crossing (left) with her much younger friend, Rochelle Gore of Truganina. (supplied) 391782_01

Injury exposes healthcare gaps

By Cade Lucas

It was two days after Christmas 2021 and Catherine Rose had made a big sale.

A retail manager at a national homewares chain, Ms Rose had just sold a swag of goods to one of her customers, including a coffee table.

“TheladywasonlylittlesoIsaidyoutakethe bags and I’ll bring the coffee table out to your car for you,” said Ms Rose, a Wyndham Vale resident who was working at the homewear chain’s outlet in Geelong.

Madeofrattan,thecoffeetablewasn’theavy, but its large box still made it awkward to carry and obscured Ms Rose’s view as she took out to the car park.

“I was just asking (the customer) where her car was and because I was carrying the box I didn’t see a bollard,” she recalled of the moments before her career, health and entire life were upended.

“I walked into the bollard and ricocheted back off it and ended up smacking my head on the concrete.”

The impact, which Ms Rose likened to being ‘king hit’ knocked her unconscious and in needofanambulance.Whenonedidn’tarrive, the 63 year old English born mother was taken to hospital in a car where she was diagnosed with a brain bleed and then post-concussion syndrome.

Discharged three days later and still unable to walk or talk, Ms Rose needed the help of her daughter Harriet to organise the next steps in her rehab and recovery.

But despite the incident occurring in Geelong, being a Wyndham resident meant she wasn’t eligible for treatment where she was originally referred.

Forced to look closer to home, she found there was little available.

“There is not a specialist concussion unit in

Wyndham aligned with any hospital where it’s all under one managing doctor,” said Ms Rose, adding that COVID may have contributed to the lack of treatment options.

AspokespersonforWyndham’smajorpublic health provider, Werribee Mercy, confirmed its concussion and neurological treatment was limited.

“Werribee Mercy Hospital provides urgent neurological care to patients through our EmergencyDepartment,likemanyotherpublic

healthcare providers, Werribee Mercy Hospital does not offer rehabilitative neurological services,” the spokesperson said. “Where ongoing rehabilitative support is necessary,MercyHealthworkswiththebroader healthcarenetworktoensurepatientsaccessthe highest quality, specialist care tailored to their specific needs.”

In the three years since her concussion, Ms Jones has been diagnosed with an acquired brain injury, PTSD and has not returned to

work.

However, thanks to Work Cover, she has beenabletoundergorehabatEpworthGeelong, where a full suite of neurological care is offered.

Ms Jones said she wasn’t criticising Werribee Mercy or other public health providers in Wyndham,butwiththeareagrowingsorapidly, better and more comprehensive treatment was needed.

“I don’t feel like the infrastructure is keeping up with the sheer volume of people.”

Wyndham Vale’s Catherine Rose suffered a workplace injury during Covid and noticed a lack of treatment options in Wyndham. (Damjan Janevski) 389940_01

Freight consultation ‘farcical’

By Cade Lucas

A community consultation session held by rail company Pacific National on its plans for a freight hub in Little River, has been described as ‘farcical’.

ThesessionconductedonZoomonThursday night involved representatives from Pacific National and the Department of Transport and Planning discussing the company’s plans to build a privately funded, 500 hectare freight hub, with members of the Little River community.

The company announced plans for its own freight hub in Little River in October, after growing frustrated the slow progress of a publicly funded freight terminal in Truganina.

The lease on the company’s existing base in West Melbourne expires in 2029.

The Little River project has prompted fierce opposition from the local residents concerned about its potential impact on community health and the environment, particularly as the proposed site is on green wedge land adjacent to the Western Grasslands Conservation Reserve.

Opponents of the proposal such as Emma Suctliffe, from campaign group PNGF, said certainZoomfunctionswereturnedoffduring the meeting, meaning it was a one-sided discussion in favour of Pacific National.

“There was no chat and the Q&A function was locked so we could only see our own questions that we were typing, nobody else’s

were visible,” she said.

“They could then cherry pick the questions they wanted to answer and they’d clearly rehearsed answers in advance.”

Pacific National chief strategy and sustainability officer Saskia Groen-in’t-woud and project manager Brad Richards were on theZoomandMsSuctliffesaidevenwhenthey did answer questions, they didn’t do so fully.

Department of Transport and Planning’s senior impact assessment officer Talia Schlen was also on the call, explaining the environmentaleffectsstatement processwhich the proposed hub is currently being subject to.

A spokesperson for Pacific National said the consultation meeting provided ample opportunity for members of the public to ask

A kaleidoscope of fun for everyone

The Kaleidoscope Festival returns to Point Cook Pop Up Park for its second year, with a 10-week calendar of events to celebrate the diversity and multiculturalism of the Wyndham community.

The festival started on Saturday 24 February and runs through to Saturday 28 April.

CoLocal, a community not-for-profit organisation, and local community groups have curated an inclusive program with the support of Stockland and Wyndham City Council.

The festival will come to life at Point Cook Pop Up Park located on Murnong Street in Point Cook, and will feature annual calendar

events, such as Holi Festival, Eid Al Fitr and Harmony Day, as well as cultural celebrations, like the Latino Festival and Greek Family Fun Day.

CoLocal founder, Sara Mitchell said Point CookPopUpParkisaplaceofcomingtogether and connection.

“We are proud to see this series in its second year, and to support the diverse local community collaborators. These upcoming family-friendly festival days celebrate culture ininclusivewayswiththebroadercommunity,” Ms Mitchell said.

The festival schedule includes:

• Sunday 3 March Greek Family Fun Day

• Saturday 9 March Pasifika Festival,

• Sunday17MarchStPatrick’sDaycelebrations

• Saturday 23 March Holi Festival

• Saturday 30 March Easter celebrations

• Saturday 6 April Latino Festival

• Saturday 13 April Filipino Fiesta

• Sunday 14 April Tamil New Year

• Saturday 20 April Eid Al Fitr

• Sunday 21 April Harmony Day

• Saturday 27 April African Festival

• Sunday 28 April BBQ Family Fun Day

questionswithinpersonconsultationsetdown for this month.

“The questions and answer function and chat yielded 56 questions or comments from participants, the majority of which were answeredduringthesession,“thespokesperson said.

“The video of webinar will be published on the project website next week, with a transcript and question and answer document allowing more community members to watch the presentation and learn about the project if they are interested.“

Earlier this month Wyndham council refused to grant Pacific National permits to clearvegetationonthesiteforpre-construction works, due to environmental concerns.

Funding pressure looms

Neighbourhood houses, including those in Wyndham, may be forced to cut back services if they don’t receive a funding increase a state opposition MP has warned.

Throughout Victoria there are more than 400 neighbourhood houses which deliver vital services, especially in regional areas.

Neighbourhood Houses Victoria has appealed for additional funding of $2.5 million to be shared across the network and Northern Victoria MLC Wendy Lovell said their request must be met.

“Neighbourhood houses provide invaluable benefit to the community, and the government must do what is necessary to ensure these Houses remain sustainable into the future,” she said.

Neighbourhood houses provide services such as toy libraries and book swaps, English classes and internet access, Men’s Sheds and childcare, community gardens and communal lunches, arts and crafts, and food banks.

In a statement, Ms Lovell said these services are delivered by 5500 staff, and almost 7000 dedicated volunteers, who receive 10 million visits a year and give out 2000 tons of food relief.

Shesaidforaservicethatalreadyruns on a shoe-string budget, cost increases and a shortfall of funding seriously threaten the long-term sustainability of the program.

Ms Lovell’s statement also said indexed funding increases for neighbourhood houses are not keeping pace with real inflation, and without urgent support the food banks will soon have to start turning people away.

Calls to speed up Western Grassland Reserve protection

A Western Metro MP has called on the state government to explain how it is accelerating its protection of the Western Grassland Reserve, and while the government said it has made progress, one environment group has called it a “failure”.

The Western Grasslands Reserve is being set up as a part of the Melbourne Strategic Assessment (MSA) program to offset clearing of native vegetation and animal habitat impacted by urban development that will take place in Melbourne’s growth areas.

Announced in 2010, the MSA promised to protect 15,000 hectares of grassland in Wyndham and Melton and that contains

multiple endangered animal species and rare plants.

In14yearssincethegovernmenthasacquired about 21 per cent of the land required, and in parliament on February 20 Western Metro MP David Ettershank what the government is doing to accelerate the timely acquisition of Western Grassland Reserve land.

“We must move quicker to protect our critically endangered grasslands and the threatened species that inhabit them,” he said.

A state government spokesperson said approximately 3,205 hectares of land has been acquired.

“This funded by the MSA levy which is paid

by developers and therefore proceeds in line with the rate of development in the growth areas,” they said.

The government also indicated that it is in negotiations to acquire more land this year, and that it believes the current rate is adequate to offset the current rate of development in Melbourne’s growth areas.

Grassy Plains Network facilitator Adrian Marshall called the MSA as a whole a “rotten deal”.

“It was rushed, poorly thought through, appallingly implemented, and has so far failed to conserve the grasslands, woodlands, plants andbeastiesitwasdesignedtoprotect,”hesaid.

“Land bankers, developers and many farmers who owned that land just gave up looking after it, because the government was going to buy it regardless of the condition it was in.

“The longer the land sits there in private ownership, the more it declines, the more the weeds take over, the more we lose our priceless heritage… At the current rate it will take another 30 years to buy.

“Grasslands should be celebrated. Well-managed public grasslands are not just a conservation asset. They provide a spirit of place. landscapes. We need to celebrate what is uniquely ours.”

Fatima El Samad from CoLocal, Phebe Yeo from 8Senses, Nicole Bagatsing from CoLocal,

Superboats brutal and brilliant

By Cade Lucas

Brutal conditions took their toll on both crew and boats alike during the opening round of the 2024 Offshore Superboat Championship at Wyndham Harbour on the weekend.

Strong winds battered craft across both days, but also made for some spectacular racing.

Among the teams to excel in the tough conditions were Jason Kelly and Jesse King in The Colonel. The duo finished three from three in the SuperSports 85 class, holding off strong challenges from Ryan Shan and Scott Kelly in RS Racing and Haydn Waszewski and Zak Gould in C-52.

Also going three from three over the weekend were Matt Kelly and Antony de Fina in, The Mantis.

Competing in the SuperCat Outboard category, Kelly and de Fina dominated their competition, with their new Mercury Racing 300R V8 outboard powering The Mantis to speeds of more than 180km/h in nearly all conditions.

The Sports 65 category was more competitive, with Patty and Michael Paczkowski in Valentus, Rennie Cogliandro and Charlie Di Iorio in Cardiac Arrest and Danny and Dean Caelli in Villian claiming a victory each.

Wyndham mayor Jennie Barrera said the warm weather and high winds combined for a great spectacle.

“It was a picture-perfect location and showcasedourbeautifulcoastline,reinforcing Wyndham City’s capacity to host major water sport events,” Cr Barrera said.

Australian Offshore Powerboat Club Commodore, Antony de Fina said Wyndham Harbour proved an ideal place to start the season.

“All of us particularly enjoyed the varying conditions, which the crowds definitely seemed to have sat, watched, and then later on come and talked with us about,” he said.

“Having the wet pits so close to the finish

line is such a marvellous element, and something that is so particular to Wyndham Harbour. Many thanks to Wyndham Council, Wyndham Harbour, and all of the personnel and volunteers that come together to make

this event possible.”

Next up, the Offshore Superboat Championship series moves further down the coast to Geelong for round two on March 16 and 17.

Risky lives up to its name. (supplied) 391586_04

Cardiac Arrest competes at Wyndham Harbour. (supplied) 391586_08

Jason Kelly and Jesse King in The Colonel finished three from three in the SuperSports 85 class. (supplied) 391586_07

Ryan Shan and Scott Kelly in RS Racing. (supplied) 391586_03

Matt Kelly and Antony de Fina in The Mantis also went undefeated. (supplied)391586_06

variety show

The spirit of Graham Kennedy, Bert Newton and Don Lane will be invoked next month when the Robertson Brothers bring their 60’s Variety TV show to Wyndham Cultural Centre.

Dubbed Australia’s new ‘Kings of Variety Television’ Geoff and Ben Robertson return for 2024 with a brand-new, 150 minute, heart-warming and uplifting show based on the most popular genre of the early years of television.

Performed on Wednesday March 6, the Robertsons will act as the charming and cheeky hosts for a night of nostalgic entertainmentthatwilltransporttheaudience back to the 1960’s.

In particular, the show will pay tribute to the musical giants of the 1960’s – The Beach Boys, The Monkees, Johnny Farnham, Peter, Paul and Mary, The Hollies, The Bee Gees, Frankie Valli, The Everly Brothers, Neil

Sedaka and The Seekers.

JoiningtheRobertsonson-stagefortheshow will be guest star Simon Brook McLachlan.

The Robertson Brothers have been performing for nearly on 30 years, appearing everywhere from the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games Opening Ceremony, to Australian Idol, to even singing the theme song for Home and Away.

They have toured with the likes of ELO, America and John Denver and had top 10 hits inMalaysia,Philippines,Singapore,Indonesia and Lebanon.

The brothers have also performed sporting and political parodies on nationally syndicated radio programs and written and sung a number of major radio and television advertising campaigns. For more information and to book: https://www.wyncc.com.au/ Cade Lucas.

Briefs

Axe threat

A 16-year-old Wyndham Vale boy was one of two people charged after an alleged road rage incident on Saturday. Police have been told the occupants of a white Ford Falcon were involved in a road rage incident with another vehicle at a fast-food store on Mount Derrimut Road, Derrimut, about 2.30am. The second vehicle left the scene following the initial dispute and was allegedly followed by the Ford. An occupant then waved a large axe out the window of the Ford and swung it towards the other car. The driver of the Ford then allegedly intentionally rammed the other car before driving away. Police located it on Vista Blvd, Fraser Rise, about 4.20am driving at dangerous speeds. The vehicle finally came to a stop in Bacchus Marsh after police deployed road spikes. A 19-year-old Navigators man was also charged.

Teens arrest

Police arrested five teenagers, including two from Wyndham Vale, after an extended chase through Aintree on February 22. Officers spotted the teens attempting to break into cars at about 11.45pm. With assistance from Airwing, the car was followed through Aintree before coming to a stop in Wyndham Vale. The teens were arrested at a property on Bellinger Crescent.

FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT

Web: starweekly.com.au

Wyndham Star Weekly @starweeklynews

@star_weekly

Ben and Geoff Robertson with guest star, Simon Brook McLachlan (television) (supplied)

Pesutto will release donors

By Liam McNally

Victorian opposition leader John Pesutto has pledged release funding details of his upcoming court case against former Liberal MP Moira Deeming, in the coming week.

Mr Pessutto is embroiled in a defamation case with the former Melton councillor after she was expelled from the parliamentary Liberal Party after taking part in a rally in March that was gate-crashed by a group of masked men who performed Nazi salutes.

Mrs Deeming issued several defamation concern notices to Mr Pesutto, alleging he publicly accused her of being a Nazi sympathiser and used the claim to bully and threaten her with expulsion.

Mr Pesutto denies he accused the now-independent MP of being a Nazi or having Nazi sympathies.

When the defamation action was launched, Mrs Deeming and Mr Pesutto committed not to use party funds to prop up their legal cases, with Mr Pesutto saying he will pay his legal costs if he must.

Lastweekitwasreportedthatseveralpeople, including former premiers Jeff Kennett, Ted Baillieu and Denis Napthine, have already made donations towards Mr Pesutto’s legal defence.

Labor was quick to call on Mr Pesutto to release the full funding details for his case, including Leader of the House Mary-Anne Thomas.

“Mr Pesutto has shown once again that

he cannot be trusted – he must immediately come clean with Victorians and explain why his million dollar legal defence, funded by private donors, is not a significant conflict of interest?” she said.

On Monday, February 19 Mr Pesutto said he intends to make all contributions to his case public by releasing them to the register of interest.

“I think that’s next week… it will be made publicly available,” he said.

“I’m not applying any threshold, any contribution will be included, no matter how small.”

When questioned on if he believes Ms Deeming should release funding sources for her legal fees he said “that’s a matter for her”.

MoiraDeemingwascontactedforcomment.

Teeing up for golf day

The annual Werribee Rotary Golf Day will be held again on Friday March 8 at the Werribee Park Golf Course.

Originally the brainchild of the late John Flynn who was a past president of the Rotary club and captain of the golf club, the fund-raising event has been running for more than 40 years.

In that time more than $400,000 has been raised, with all of it distributed to many worthwhile local community groups and organisations.

As was the case last year, the 2024 event will again aim to raise $25,000 for cancer research at Victoria University - Werribee campus.

Last year the funds were used by the medicalresearchteam,ledbyProfessorVasso Apostolopoulos, to test for the presence of “biomarkers” in the body which are potential precursors to the formation of cancer cells. A paper of their findings was

publishedinarecenteditionofaninternational medical journal which included a reference to Werribee Rotary in the acknowledgements.

Professor Apostolopoulos says it is always challenging to obtain funding for medical research and praised Werribee Rotary for their significant contribution.

Other research undertaken by Professor Apostolopoulos and her team in the past 30 yearsincludesthecreationofvariousvaccines to tackle many health issues including breast, ovarian, prostate and pancreatic cancer.

The Ambrose Competition gets underway at 8.15am, with lunch and presentations scheduled for 12.45pm.

There are prizes for first, second and third place, nearest the pin, longest drive and straightest drive.

Registrations close on Friday March 1 and those interested should contact Ross Conley at: rossaconley@gmail.com

Participants at the 2023 Werribee Rotary Golf Day fundraising event. (supplied). 391012_01

Western Metro MP Moira Deeming.

Werribee’s ‘fantastic’ 100 club

As the population ages and medical advances continue, the chances of living to 100 are also increasing. But what are the chances of six centenarians living together in the one aged care home? Cade Lucas visited St Vincent’s Aged Care in Werribee to find out.

In terms of statements of the obvious, pointing out that aged care homes are full of old people ranks alongside revelations that water really is wet, bears actually do defecate in the woods and the Pope is very much a Catholic.

However, it turns out that while aged care residents are indeed old, they’re not always that old.

According to Debbie Ferreira, lifestyle coordinator at St Vincent’s Aged Care in Werribee, not many residents live to be 100.

“It’s not common,” said Mr Ferreira who has worked at St Vincent’s for three years and in the aged care industry for over 20.

“On average, just one or two people in the facility will be that age, if you’re lucky.”

If that’s true, then Ms Ferrieira and her colleagues better go buy lottery tickets because they currently have not one or two centenarians living there, but three times that amount.

“It’s amazing to have six in the same building,” she said “It’s very very rare. We’ve got80residentsandoutofthe80,we’vegotsix centenarians. Fantastic.”

So rare and so fantastic that Star Weekly was recently invited out to St Vincent’s Werribee to meet and interview members of its 100 club.

‘‘ I’m not into big parties, I just keep plodding along ’’ - Joyce Soulsby

All six were born between 1922 and 1924 so turned 100 within the last two years and along with similar ages, share one other major characteristic in common: they’re all women.

“Women live longer” remarked a staff member matter-of-factly when Star Weekly pointed this out.

Unfortunately, one thing they don’t have in common is a willingness or ability to talk or pose for photos.

On the way to the lounge where I’m to conduct the interviews, I’m told that the oldest of the lot, 101 year old Moira Bowtell, wasn’t available. She wasn’t sick or asleep just not interest apparently. Oh well. When you’re going on 102, you can do what you like I suppose.

I’m then informed that Bendigo born Dorothy Martin was in hospital. This was a shame as it was also her 101st birthday, but was made even more disappointing when reading her bio and noticing that among her hobbies and interests was disco dancing. Me and Dorothy would have to trip the light fantastic another time.

Once in the lounge the first resident I see is another who clearly won’t be participating.

Hungarian born Maria Szlobpda is propped up on a large bed/recliner, awake but nothing more. Staff tell me that the 101 year old is now non-verbal. She and husband Steve moved to Australia in 1956 and embarked on a life typical of post-war European migrants. Maria worked for a textile company while Steve was a mechanic. They lived in Altona North and were active members of the local Hungarian community. After caring for Steve in his final years, Maria’s own health declined following his death and she moved into St Vincent’s soon after its opening in 2017.

Like Maria, Marcella Stangherlin was also a post-war migrant, arriving from Italy with her two brothers in 1949. However, Marcella not only retains the ability to speak, but is only too happy to do so, filling the room with her heavily accented voice, adding sound effects and gesticulations for good measure. Having only turned 100 in January she’s the second youngest of the group and her loud boisterous nature suggests as much. Marcella regales me with tales of her son Gus and late

husbandAngelo,whoshemetafterarrivingin Australia and with whom she ran a vegetable farm at Werribee South.

What did they grow I ask?

“Lettuce, cauliflower, sugar beet…..(long pause).....that’s all,” she laughed.

Later on they added a poultry farm, something Marcella doesn’t recall so fondly.

“Mama Mia” she exclaimed while waving her hand in front of her nose.

When I ask about the reason she left Italy for Australia, World War II, Marcella is equally animated.

“Oh my god, every night, nine o’clock, 11 o’clock, 12 o’clock, aeroplane, brroooooommmm” she recalled making the noise of Allied aircraft racing through the night sky.

“Bomba, boom, boom, boom, boom,” she continued with hand gestures of added effect.

While Marcella came to Australia to escape the war, Lydia Rintoull was living here during it and still remembers the moment it came to an end.

“Everything stopped at work,” recalled the 100 year old who was making stockings at the Holeproof factory on the afternoon in 1945 when news came through that the greatest conflict in human history had come to an end.

“Everybody went into Melbourne and danced in the street outside the post office in Bourke Street. We stayed there till dark.”

It was a joyous moment in an otherwise joyless time for Lydia who moved to Melbourne from Yea when she was 16 and never warmed to city life.

“I hated it. I found it busy after living in a country town.”

Fortunately she didn’t stay long. After meeting Ron Rintoull on a trip back home for Christmas, they married and returned to the country to become farmers, first near Yea and then in Melton, where they lived until Ron’s passing shortly after their 70th wedding anniversary. Along the way they had four children, though tragically two of their three boys died young, leaving just a daughter and their eldest son who today lives in nearby Hoppers Crossing. As well as raising children Lydia raised dogs on the farm too, breeding dachshunds and seeing eye dogs, while her love of canines extended to supporting the

Western Bulldogs. Lydia was one of the first residents to move into St Vincents when it opened over five years ago and while enjoying the company, offered a blunt answer when asked if she’d like to hang around for a while longer.

“Oh I hope not,” she laughed.

Like Lydia, Joyce Soulsby also seemed rather non-plussed about the future.

Born in the Victoria goldfields town of Dunolly in May 1923, Joyce is technically not even a centenarian yet and didn’t seem aware she was about to become one.

“May next year,” she nominated when asked when the big day was before Debbie Ferreira reminds her, “this year, May this year.”

So was she excited about her 100th birthday being just three months away?

“Not really no,” Joyce deadpanned with the nasal drawl and tinder dry humour of someone who’s lived most of their life on the land.

“What about getting a letter from the King, you know Prince Charles,?” I ask.

“Ohbigthrills,”shechuckledbeforeadding: “I’ll just keep plodding along.”

It would become her stock answer to nearly all my inquiries.

Will she have a party when turns 100?

“I’mnotintobigparties,Ijustkeepplodding along.”

Did she have any regrets?

“No I just keep plodding along.”

What did she miss about her younger years”

“It doesn’t worry me I just go on day to day and plod along.”

What advice would she give to younger people?

“Work hard and plod along.”

In between answers Joyce did manage to fill out her life story. She and late husband Jack ran a sheep farm and raised five children, the youngest of whom, Glen, lives in Werribee and visits for lunch every Wednesday.

“Glen, oh he’s a card. Everyone knows him around here,” Joyce said, adding “he’s slightly handicapped, but he gets around. He’s good.”

Joyce enjoyed gardening and playing golf and bowls in her younger years, but after moving to St Vincents aged 97, she is now just happy to go outside in the fresh air.

To just plod along.

St Vincent’s Aged Care Werribee residents: Joyce Soulsby turns 100 in May, 100 year old Lydia Rintoull, and Marcella Stangherlin, who turned 100 on January 5. (Pictures: Jacob Pattison) 389357

Moira Bowtell is the oldest of the group, turning 102 in December. (Supplied)

Hungarian born 101 year old, Maria Szloboda.

Martin was in

Photographs on tour

The Queer Photo festival continues in Wyndham early next month with the Wyndham Precinct Tour on Sunday March3.

Beginning at the Wyndham Art Gallery with a with a talk from UK photographer Sunil Gupta on his exhibition of The New Pre-Raphaelites, the tour then moves to Station Place where Peter Waples-Crowe willgiveanartisttalkonhisworkondisplay atWerribeeStation,Affirm.

The tour will then finish at Werribee Mansion where Karla Dickens will give a talk on their new work To See or Not to See andBrazillianbornbutLondonbasedartist, Asafe Ghalib will discuss his exhibition QueerImmigrants.

As the name suggests, Ghalib’s work

captures people not disimilar themselves, migrants who are also members of the LGBTQIA+community.

Coming from a religious family and background, Ghalib is a self-taught artist whose work embraces rebellion in order to reclaim their identity and history. They are bestknownfortheirimagerythatchallenges dominantideasaroundmasculinity,gender, sexuality, and representation of LGBTQIA+ people in the United Kingdom. Queer Immigrantsisaprimeexample.

For more of Ghalib’s work: www. asafeghalib.com

To find out more about the Werribee Precint Tour: https://www.midsumma. org.au/whats-on/events/queer-photo-tourwyndham-precinct/

Brazilian born, London based artist, Asafe Ghalib. (Supplied)

Asafe Ghalib uses photography as a way of survival and telling stories that are being neglected. Ghalib will discuss his exhibition at Werribee Mansion on March 3. (Pictures: Asafe Ghalib)

‘Extreme’ rental pain in the west

By Liam McNally

Rental“pain”isnotfeltequallythroughoutthe Melton municipality, with different suburbs rating among the best and worst in the west according to new data from Suburbtrends.

Suburbtrends releases a monthly “Rental Pain Index” (RPI) which scores suburb groups across out of a hundred on rental pain, the score is derived from measuring rental prices, household incomes, vacancy rates and advertised rentals.

The Melton suburb received an RPI score of 93.39,thesecondhighestinMelbourne’swest.

Anything over 75 is considered “extreme” rental pain.

More than 60 per cent of suburbs in the west were in extreme rental pain, with other Melton suburb groups Melton West, Hillside, Taylors Hill and Burnside Heights in the bracket.

While the report says rental pain is broadly being felt across the west, the best performing suburbs were also in the Melton council area.

Eynesbury - Exford was feeling the least rental pain in the west with a score of 28.63, followed by Fraser Rise - Plumpton and Rockbank - Mount Cottrell with scores of

31.07 and 31.2 respectively.

Suburbtrends founder Kent Lardner said this month’s Rental Pain Index highlights a concerning trend within the Melbourne market, as we witness a significant uptick in scores, signalling growing distress rather than improvement.

“Historically, Melbourne has offered relatively favourable living conditions compared to income levels,” he said.

“In Melbourne’s West, the Rental Pain Index (RPI) reveals a pressing narrative of rental market stress, marked by escalating rental prices, dwindling affordability, and

School cleaners hung out to dry

Gathered in front of parliament house, Victoria’s school cleaners, many of them from the west and north, united to protest a contract change which has slashed their hours and wages on Tuesday.

With the heat beating down on them, members from multiple unions proudly waved their flags and pumped their fists, calling for action from Education Minister Bed Carroll.

This follows an ongoing issue sparked by companies Serco and Tradeflex cutting contract hours and stripping cleaners of up to 60 per cent of their wage.

Thecompanieswereawardedschoolcleaning contracts by the state government at the end of last year.

UnitedWorkersUnionexecutivedirectorfor propertyservicesLyndalRyansaidthecleaners have been pushed into a disastrous situation.

“What these companies are doing, slashing hours, cutting corners, demanding hardworking cleaners to do more with less, is exactlywhycleanershavebeencampaigningto bring an end to this failed model,” she said.

“But instead, Minister Carroll has chosen to keep this privatised system, enabling companies to profit off the Victorian taxpayer by keeping cleaners on low wages and reduced hours.

“[Thishas]resultedinschoolsbeingleftdirty or forcing teachers to pick up the slack.”

Between speeches from cleaners and union members, the frustrated voices of many

chanting ‘shame’ echoed up the steps of Parliament House.

Meanwhile driving around the city, a billboard truck called for Mr Carroll to ‘clean up this mess’.

Back on the steps protesting, school cleaner

Ines Lizama said she worked as a leading hand cleaner at two schools before having her hourscut back in the changeover.

“I was devastated because I didn’t think it was going to go that far. I thought we were going to get… direct employment,” she said.

“What they have done is unbelievable. They have left everybody stranded, they haven’t got enough hours.

“I was a full timer and I’m now a part timer, and they have taken one school from me.”

As the crowd dispersed, they chanted a promise to Mr Carroll- they will be back.

tight vacancy rates.

“Kings Park emerges at the forefront of this struggle, with an 11.01 per cent jump in rental prices over the past year, pushing 29.42 per cent of renters’ income towards housing costs, amidst a notably low vacancy rate of 0.41 per cent.

“This culminates in a distressing RPI of 93.48.

“Closebehind,Meltonexperiencesasimilar plight, with an 8.82 per cent increase in rents and 32.02 per cent of income consumed by rent, leading to an RPI of 93.39, reflecting a severe affordability crisis.”

Zoe Moffatt The protest at Parliament House on

School cleaner Ines Lizama.

MY PLACE

Werribee actress Murron Kennedy-Cupples is starring in a new production of The Sound of Music opening at St Kilda’s National Theatre on March 2. She tells Cade Lucas about her life in Wyndham.

What’s your connection to Wyndham?

I’ve lived in Wyndham since I was two years old, so I completed both primary and secondaryschoolinthearea.Mygrandparents havealsolivedheremywholelife,aswellasall thefriendsImadegrowingupandthroughout my schooling. It’s been my place of living, socialising, learning, and growing during my childhood and adolescence.

What do you like about where you live?

I like that it’s not too busy or crowded, like the city for instance. There are still great spots for socialising and leisurely activities, but it doesn’t get too loud or overwhelming. I think this also means that there’s a better sense of community here, because the area is smaller. I like that there’s also open areas for nature, like parks and rivers. I often go for walks in these spaces when I need to clear my mind or find creative inspiration. I also participated in Wyndham’s performing arts facilities as a kid and found that it helped me get out of my comfort zone, find friends and like-minded people, and discover something fun that I was passionate about.

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

I wouldn’t really change much; I just wish it was a bit closer to the city. While most of my immediate family is in Wyndham, most of my friends and my university are located in the CBD or surrounding suburbs, so I have to do a bit of travel on public transport each day. It would just be more convenient for my lifestyle at the moment, to not have to travel as much. But otherwise, I’m quite happy being in this area – it has everything I need.

Where is your favourite local place to spend time?

IwouldsaytheplaceIspendthemosttimeatis

Pacific Werribee – it’s a great shopping centre and a hotspot for socialising. My favourite aspect would be the cinema because film is one of my passions. My favourite place, however, would be the Werribee Park area. The mansion is an interesting piece of local history, and the surrounding greenery and Victoria State

Rose Garden are lovely areas for picnicking with family and friends. I have a lot of fond memories there, where I spent quality time with friends and loved ones.

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

My passion is in performing and theatre.

I’ve always loved singing and acting, and I’m currently studying a bachelor’s degree in

musical theatre at the Australian Institute of Music(AIM),toonedaybecomeaprofessional. At the moment you can see me in Theatrical’s productionofRodger’sandHammerstein’sThe Sound of Music. It opens on March 2 at the St Kilda National Theatre, so don’t miss out on seeing this incredibly timeless, beautiful, and important story. I’m so very proud to be a part of this show and can’t wait for audiences to experience its magic!

Werribee’s Murron Kennedy-Cupples is one of the cast members of The Sound of Music which is opening at The National Theatre in St Kilda on March 2. (Damjan Janevski) 390780_03

Zoo welcomes rare species

Werribee Open Range Zoo is celebrating the birth of five precious scimitar-horned oryx calves – a rare species of antelope that was once teetering on the brink of extinction.

The caramel-coloured, wobbly legged calves have all been born in the last month and are slowly finding their feet on the zoo’s vast Savannah.

Werribee Open Range Zoo Savannah keeper Katie Jones said the new arrivals are a major conservation success as the species was extinct in the wild until December last year.

“Thankstointernationalbreedingprograms like the one we have at Werribee Open Range Zoo, numbers of this precious antelope have been steadily increasing after the species was declared extinct in the wild in 2000 by the ICUN Red List of Threatened Species,“ Ms Jones said.

“Thesenewcalvesarestilltinyandadorable, and they’re settling in so well with the rest of the heard.“

As the calves grow, zoo visitors can see them sitting together in a creche group, learninghowtowalkontheirwobblylegs,and evenrunningaroundwiththe’zoomies’inthe afternoon.

The calves are named after areas in Chad where their species now survives. Their names are Dababa [pronounced Dahba-bah], Kobe [Koh-bee], Tibesti [Tib-es-tee] and Salali [Sah-lah-lee] - with the most recent calf still to be named.

Ms Jones said the calves will rapidly change in appearance as they grow.

“Lucky for the mothers, oryx are born with very tiny horns, which you can barely see,“ Ms Jones said.

“As they become adults, the ribbed, sharp horns will grow to curve all the way to their backs, which they use for scratching, protection from predators, sparring

and courtship.“

Scimitar-hornedoryxwereoncewidespread, with an estimated one million roaming across North Africa. However, overhunting, habitat destruction and competition with domestic livestock eliminated the antelope from their natural range by the early 1990s.

After international breeding efforts by more than 200 zoological institutions,

oryx were down-listed to endangered, with approximately 600 individuals now thriving in a protected reserve within Chad. Werribee Open Range Zoo visitors have an opportunity to see these precious oryx calves each day and also after the sun sets during the Sunset Safari experience, which is running each Saturday from 5.30pm to 9pm until March 9.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Healthy living festival

The Wyndham Festival for Healthy Living is a free multi arts program involving many schools and community groups, which have been exploring positive ideas of community through circus, music, podcasting, dance, drumming. There will also be free performances, arts and fashion workshops. A world kitchen will demonstrate delicious food from around the globe. There will also be performances by young people, bands, dancing, face painting, market stalls, roving puppets and more. The festival is on Saturday, March 16 at the Youth Resource Centre, 86 Derrimut Rd, Hoppers Crossing.

■ festival.hl@rch.org.au

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

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

With One Voice Wyndham Choir

With One Voice Wyndham Choir is a community choir open to all. The community choir welcomes all ages, abilities, faiths, cultures and genders and is directed by a very experienced and friendly professional conductor. Fun weekly rehearsals and amazing performance opportunities are provided. They 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 7-8:30pm at Wayaperri House ,106 Duncans Road, Werribee.

■ wyndham@withonevoice.org.au

Adult community garden group

The group meets on the first Tuesday of the month 10-11.30am at Iramoo Community Centre, 84 Honour Ave, Wyndham Vale. Head down and join them as we maintain their rejuvenated community garden. Planting and harvesting produce that they grow.

■ 8742 3688

International Women’s Day

Join the celebrations at Iramoo Community Centre, 84 Honour Ave, Wyndham Vale on Friday, March 8 at 10.30-11.30am for a morning tea and guest speaker from Wyndham Women’s Support Group as it celebrates International Women’s Day.

■ 8742 3688

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 foundation will put you in a team of four or gather your own group 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 (two golfers per cart).

■ Sam, 0438 423 425, Alan, 0417 512 742 or yaf3030@gmail.com

Clean up Australia Day

A Clean Up Australia Day event will be held on Sunday, March 3 between 10.30am-noon, rear of Anaconda Store, Geelong Skeleton Creek, 232 Old Geelong Road.

■ Lisa, 0433 559 530.

Riverkeeper Walk at Heritage Fruit Tree Festival

The Heritage Fruit Tree Festival is on again and will include a Werribee Riverkeeper Walk, noon-1pm, Sunday, March 3. Meet at the info tent, Werribee Park Farm and

Orchard, Gate 5, K Road, Werribee South.

■ admin@werribeeriver.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

Seniors club

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

Diabetes Support Group

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 252872.

Hoppers Crossing Ladies Probus

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

■ 0408 123 669

Sunrise Social Groups

GenWest Sunrise Social Groups are currently seeking new members for their Melton, Brimbank and Wyndham programs. The free groups are organised by Genwest and provide a social space for women, gender diverse and nonbinary people, who have a disability, chronic health issues and/or mental health challenges.

■ https://genwest.org.au/what-we-do/ health-wellbeing-programs/

U3A Werribee

The group is a not-for-profit community

organisation for semi-retired and retired Wyndham residents. They hold a variety of classes-activities specifically designed for seniors, including, light physical and mental wellbeing sessions, arts, games and craft, and general classes such as current affairs, history and lunch groups. Most classes-activities are held at Wyndham community centres.

■ Rick, 0402 299 220.

Lions Club

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

■ Jorge, 0433 566 575

Bingo for all

The Werribee RSL hosts Bingo every Monday between 12.30-2.30pm.

■ 9741 5525

Western Budgerigar Club

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

■ Don, 0414 975 862

Wyndham Ladies Probus

Are you recently retired or semi-retired?

Looking for fun, fellowship and to increase your social networks. The Ladies Probus Club of Wyndham meets on the first Wednesday of each month at Hotel520, Sayers Road, Tarneit, and normally has an outing or event on the third Wednesday of each month.

■ Rosa Sanderson, 0410 303 046

Wyndham Combined Probus Club

Wyndham Combined Probus Club has been providing friendship and fun for retired people for 22 years. They have recently moved to a new home at Iramoo Community Centre in Wyndham Vale and offer speakers, lunches, brunches, shows, trips and tours. Newcomers are welcome on the second Tuesday of the month at 1.30pm.

■ Judy 0411 034

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Harlene Del Rosario who will be modelling and speaking at an upcoming International Women’s Day event. (Damjan Janevski) 389767_01

No.

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

1 Cicatrix (4)

3 New comers to the nation (10)

10 Marriage (7)

11 Sloping type (7)

12 Inventoried (8)

13 Publication (5)

14 Uncommon (4)

15 Bypass (10)

18 Process of change (10)

20 Help (4)

21 Homeland of Sachin Tendulkar (5)

23 Distinguishing badges (8)

26 Dizziness (7)

27 Ships (7)

28 A release of information (10)

29 Holy song (4)

DOWN

1 Cut (4)

2 More than one auditorium (9)

4 Provisional (9)

5 Homerian epic (5)

6 Practical view (7)

7 Fasteners (5)

8 Possibly guilty (9)

9 Composition in verse (4)

14 Recovered (9)

16 Bridge (9)

17 Elusively (9)

19 Having three dimensions (7)

22 Game of skill (5)

23 False gods (5)

24 Huff (4)

25 Book ID (1,1,1,1)

DECODER

No. 174

WORDFIT

3 LETTERS CAR CIA EKE ERA EWE GIN HEM HEW HUE ITS NEW OWE OWN PLY RUT RYE SEA SIP SIT

9-LETTER WORD

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

Today’s Aim:

12 words: Good

18 words: Very good

25 words: Excellent

4 LETTERS

5 LETTERS

No. 174

QUICK QUIZ

1 On which beach was the world’s first surf lifesaving club founded?

2 Susan Sarandon (pictured) caught pneumonia while filming a swimming pool scene in which 1975 cult classic?

3 In Disney/Pixar’s Toy Story franchise, which of Andy’s toys is also a piggy bank?

4 The board game Settlers of Catan features tiles that are what in shape?

5 True or false: clouds are weightless?

6 How many realms are there in Norse mythology and cosmology?

7 The Toronto Blue Jays, Houston Astros and Atlanta Braves are all teams in which sport?

8 What are the two types of pool boards used in Olympic diving events?

9 The Scream, a 19th-century composition, was painted by which Norwegian artist?

10 Which former US president is in the National Wrestling Hall of Fame?

No. 174

No.

SULPHURIC, usurp

SPORTS QUIZ

1. How many teams compete in the English Premier League each season?

2. Does Australian NFL punter Mitch Wishnowsky play for the San Francisco 49ers or the Kansas City Chiefs?

3. Romantic Warrior won which 2023 horse race: the Caulfield Cup, the Cox Plate or the Melbourne Cup?

4. What nationality was marathon world record holder Kelvin Kiptum?

5. Which four clubs were last to be granted AFLW licenses, joining the league in 2022?

6. Harry Kane plays for which Bundesliga club?

7. Is the capacity of the MCG 80,000, 100,000 or 110,000 people?

The rugby league football manufacturer Steeden was founded in which state?

Which king of France was the first person to have an indoor billiard table?

10. Name the most famous steeplechase horse race in the world, run since 1836.

11. What is the maximum number of overs a bowler is allowed to bowl in ODI cricket?

Matthew Farrelly is the real name of which Australian WWE wrestler?

13. Cathy Freeman became the first Indigenous Australian to win a Commonwealth Games gold medal in what year?

14. True or false: The Matildas have won a FIFA World Cup?

15. What is the NHL Winter Classic?

16. And which two teams played in the 2024 game?

17. Which position does NFL player Travis Kelce play?

18. The 2024 Royal Hobart Regatta just celebrated its what year?

19. When will the AFLW 2024 season start?

20. Lleyton Hewitt won his first Grand Slam title in which year?

21. Which two men’s international cricket teams tour Australia during the 2023/24 summer?

22.Callum Mills is the captain of which AFL team?

23. Which NBA conference won the 2024 NBA All-Star Game?

24. WNBA star Sabrina Ionescu competed in what contest against Steph Curry on NBA All-Star Weekend?

25. Which cricketing nation recently experienced their worst test match loss since World War II?

26. Which Australian cricketer scored a double century in the recent women’s test match against South Africa?

27. Recently deceased racehorse Verry Elleegant won the Melbourne Cup in what year?

28. Which Super Rugby Pacific team recently went into voluntary administration?

29. Which country’s baseball competition is known as Nippon Professional Baseball?

30.How many Super Bowl MVP awards has Patrick Mahomes won?

E-power X-Trail a hybrid beauty

By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring

The term e-POWER is Nissan’s take on hybrids.

InthecaseofX-Trail,it’sNissan’scompetitor for the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, a car so popular there’s a two-year waiting list.

It’s a little different from the system offered by other manufacturers and made its debut in themedium-sizedSUVatthebeginningoflast year.

The X-Trail ST-L e-POWER with e-4ORCE is the cheapest of the X-Trail hybrids and comes as a five-seater with all-wheel drive.

Styling

Signature design elements such as the floating roof and V-motion grille have been enhanced by a unique grille treatment for e-POWER models.

The grille is framed by striking headlights that appear moulded within the bodywork of the front bumper, with combined daytime runninglightsandindicatorsnestledalongthe shut-line of the bonnet.

ST-L e-POWER with e-4ORCE is priced from $49,990 before on-road costs.

That’s from $3200 to $6300 more than its petrol-powered equivalent, but you can’t quite compare apples with apples.

The conventional five-seat petrol model is two-wheel drive, while the all-wheel drive version comes with seven seats. Gotta love those tricky marketing people.

There’s also e-Power Ti at $54,690 and the Ti-L at $57,690, also five-seaters.

ST-L e-POWER has a premium feel thanks to synthetic leather and two-zone climate air, with heated front seats, a leather-clad wheel, power-adjust driver seat and darkened rear privacy glass.

Itrideson18-inchwheelswithLEDheadand tail lights, along with LED daytime running lights and automatic high beam, as well as auto lights and wipers and an auto-dimming rear view mirror plus auto-fold, power-adjust heated mirrors.

X-Trail comes with a five-year, unlimited kilometre warranty plus five-year roadside assistance, with service intervals pegged at 12 months or a tightish 10,000km.

Infotainment

Infotainment comes in the form of an 8.0-inch touchscreen, with Bluetooth, AM/FM and DAB+ digital radio, wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and six-speaker audio (but no navigation).

Ti and Ti-L get satnav, a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen and wireless charging.

There are four USB ports: USB-A and USB-C in the front and charge only USB-A and USB-C in the back, with 12-volt outlets in the front and luggage area.

Engines/transmissions

The e-POWER with e-4ORCE system is comprised of a high-output 2.1 kWh battery together with a turbocharged 1.5-litre three cylinder variable compression petrol engine, power generator, inverter and twin electric motors – 150kW for the front and 100kW for the rear (with a combined system output of 157kW).

All-wheel drive comes courtesy of front and rear electric motors, but like most SUVs it operates predominantly in two-wheel drive most of the time with drive to the front-wheels through a single-speed reduction gear.

Safety

Five-star safety includes seven airbags, including a centre airbag which provides added protection to front seat occupants in side impact crashes.

There’s also autonomous emergency braking (Car-to-Car, Vulnerable Road User, Junction Assist and Backover) as well as a lane support system with lane keep assist (LKA), lane departure warning (LDW) and emergency lane keeping (ELK) and an advanced speed assistance system (SAS).

A digital around view monitor provides

moving object detection, with front and rear parking sensors and tyre pressure monitoring.

Without the initial start-up noise of a petrol engine, an acoustic alert system warns pedestrians that the car has begun to move.

Isofix child seat anchors are provided for the outsiderearseats,aswellastethersforallthree rearseatsandrearseatalertpreventskidsfrom being left behind in the car.

Driving

ThebigdifferencebetweenNissan’shybridand the others is that the petrol engine does not power the wheels.

No, sir. The petrol ICE is used only to produce electricity which powers the electric motors that turn the wheels.

That makes it a series hybrid, as opposed to a parallel hybrid like the Toyota Prius (sorry, forgot, they don’t do Prius anymore, at least not here).

Under heavy acceleration or when the battery is low on charge, however, the petrol enginewilldeliverpowernotjusttothebattery – but to the electric motors.

The beauty of this system, according to Nissan, is that the petrol engine is always able to run within its ideal rev range, not forced to lug or over-rev madly as in conventional cars.

In reality the e-Power system feels a little weird and, in our experience, makes some strange noises from time to time.

In fact, it feels more like an electric vehicle than a petrol-powered one, which it is in a way.

Thanks to drive being provided by the electric motors, Nissan says there’s no delay in acceleration as with an ICE or traditional hybrid.

The instant response delivers exhilarating acceleration to make overtaking or merging onto a motorway easier.

Again, in reality, the response isn’t quite as instantaneous or as thrilling as promised, but it is relatively brisk.

In fact, it feels faster than the claimed 7.0 seconds from 0-100km/h. However, it can delivertorquetotherearwheelswhenrequired up to 10,000 times faster than mechanical all-wheel drive.

A drive and terrain mode selector offers five different modes: Auto, Eco, Sport, Snow and Off-Road.

With a 55-litre tank, fuel consumption is a claimed 6.1L/100km using premium 95 unleaded and it generates 139g/km of CO2.

In comparison the 2.5-litre petrol version uses 7.8L/100km (of standard unleaded).

Maximum braked towing capacity is 1650kg, down 350kg on the petrol version.

It’s pretty quiet in the cabin of the X-Trail, thankstothefactthatthepetrolenginedoesn’t have to work hard.

For example, at 40km/h, Nissan says the sound level in the cabin is 8dB lower than competitors (it doesn’t say which).

A switch in the centre console enables one-pedal driving that slows the car as soon as the driver reduces pressure on the accelerator, slowing the car down to a creep – but not to a complete stop.

It takes the tedium out of constantly switching between brake and accelerator in stop-start city driving as well as turning corner to corner country driving into a new experience.

And, in case you’re wondering, lifting off from the accelerator activates the brake lights, warning drivers behind you.

In Sport mode with one-pedal driving selected, the e-Power X-trail feels lively and almost fun to drive.

It makes short work of hills and remains reasonably tied down in corners, albeit with a bit of tyre squeal.

ST-L misses out on a customisable, fully digitised instrument cluster, but the conventional dials are large, clear and easy to read.

AT A GLANCE

MODEL RANGE

ST 2WD $36,750

ST AWD 7 seat $37,790

ST-L 2WD $43,190

ST-L AWD 7 seat $46,290

ST-L AWD 5 seat e-Power hybrid $49,990

Ti AWD $49,990

Ti AWD e-Power hybrid $54,190

Ti-L AWD $52,990

Ti-L AWD e-Power hybrid $57,190

SPECIFICATIONS

Nissan X-Trail ST-L e-POWER with e-4ORCE, five-seat wagon

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

It’s interesting to note that many drivers prefer to switch their digital clusters to show a pair of old-style analogue dials anyway, which makes customisation kind of superfluous.

We’re big fans of adaptive cruise control, but the current Nissan system is a struggle.

Setting the speed is easy and so is adjusting the distance to the car in front, but actually activating it is a matter of trial and error.

The gap to the car in front by the way is still too large and does not deter aggressive drivers from cutting in.

We were getting 6.8L/100km short-term which dropped to 6.4L/100km after 2000km of mixed driving.

Summing up

Hmmm . . . Not quite sure what to make of the e-Power idea.

The whole point of the hybrid exercise has been as a bridging mode to full electrification, designed to reduce fuel consumption and harmful engine emissions.

While it provides a lively drive experience, the e-Power X-Trail can’t match the RAV4 for emissions or fuel consumption, but at least it gives buyers a hybrid option and point of difference from competitors.

However, is it enough? Friends have a RAV hybrid and have been getting 5.7L/100km as regular as clockwork.

e-Power ... pricey but different in a good way.

United has Beall replacement

Western United has found its replacement for goalkeeper Hillary Beall, securing Danish keeper Kathrine Larsen for the remainder of the A-League Women’s season.

Larsen was part of the Denmark squad at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, featuring on the bench in all four matches.

In total, Larsen has made eight senior appearances for Denmark, helping her country to victory in six of those matches.

Larsen has extensive experience at club level throughout Scandinavia, most recently playing for Danish giants Brondby where she appeared in the UEFA Women’s Champions League.

After arriving in the west, Larsen said she can’t wait to get to work and is looking forward to helping Western United’s push for silverware.

“I’m really excited,” she said. “It’s been a long time coming for me to find somewhere, and speaking to the coaches this felt like the right opportunity.

“It’s a big motivator when you come in and the team is on top, you want to make sure we stay there. It’s always fun and it’s always hard. I like the pressure and it’s just going to be fun to keep working hard.”

United coach Kat Smith said the club’s ability to secure a goalkeeper with vast quality and experience was a significant lift for the remainder of the campaign.

“We are delighted to welcome Kathrine into our squad and I’m extremely excited to begin working with her,” she said.

“Coming into a crucial part of the season, her experience at the highest level will be another boost for our group and I am sure she will have an immediate impact.

“Having gone to the recent world cup and played in elite competitions for club and country, we look forward to seeing her quality on the pitch and having her help drive us towards success this season.”

Larsen joined United for her first training session last Wednesday as the green and

black prepares for the final five matches of the regular season.

Beall departed the club earlier this month, being called back from loan by the San Diego Wave FC in the National Women’s Soccer League.

United football general manager Mal ImpiombatospokeglowinglyofBeall’simpact at the club, both on and off the pitch.

“Hillary has been an integral part of our journeyintheLibertyA-Leagueandwewould like to thank her for her valued contributions across the club,” he said.

“As a leader amongst the group, Hillary was integral in setting the foundations of our program off the field, while her performances on the field were crucial in helping us reach the grand final in our inaugural season.

“On behalf of everyone at the club, I wish to thank Hillary for her time and efforts and wish her all the very best as she departs to pursue opportunities at home in San Diego.”

Cricket action from around the grounds

It was another big weekend of sport in Melbourne’s west. Star Weekly photographer Ljubica Vrankovic was out there catching some of the action.

Nathan Somerville (Ljubica Vrankovic)

Muhammad Imran Khan (Ljubica Vrankovic)

Muhammad Kashif (Ljubica Vrankovic)

(Ljubica Vrankovic)

Nicholas Fellows (Ljubica Vrankovic)

Kathrine Larsen (Western United)

Sharks a win away from securing a finals spot

Point Cook Centrals are on the cusp of playing finals in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association division 4 in its first season in the division.

The Sharks were promoted from division 5 after playing off in the grand final last season. Now following a win against Laverton on the weekend, the club sits in a good position heading into the final round.

In the match against Laverton the Sharks bowled first and were off to a strong start, with Laverton’s top and middle order being blown away. After being 8-58, Laverton were able to stringapartnershiptogether,beingbowledout for 143.

“We put them under a lot of pressure early, we have some really good new ball bowlers and they did a wonderful job,” captain Brett Talbot said.

“They had a partnership, which every team tends to have, either a partnership or one or two people that step up, and that happened. We just couldn’t close them out for under 100 runs which was our goal but we fought and got the six points.”

With the bat the Sharks were able to chase the runs down, but it wasn’t without a

challenge, with them just reaching 147 before being bowled out in the 51st over.

“We needed the six points and had a couple of scary moments but we got the job done and

that’s all we needed to do,” Talbot said.

“The last four or five games have been very competitive and very close each and every week.

Bees into the decider

By Tara Murray

It wasn’t one for the light-hearted on Saturday, with Werribee getting over the line against Bacchus Marsh in a thriller in the Bowls Victorianweekendpennant,division2,section 1 semi finals.

With a grand final spot on the line, both teams were itching to get any advantage they could out at the Bacchus Marsh greens. The match would come down to the final end. The Bees were able to pick up two shots to claim the win 75 (14)-74 (4).

Bees skip Mick O’Neil said there were a mixture of emotions throughout the day.

“It was very nervy,” he said. “There were never more than five shots between us on the day.

“With one end to go, we were down by one.

“We held two shots and their guy killed it. We managed to get two up again in the end and were able to win by one.

“It was very exciting, very nerve wracking.”

O’Neil said they thought for a while that the scores would end up tied and result in everyone having to play an extra end.

It wouldn’t end up being the case and they were able to enjoy some celebratory drinks instead.

Brendan Barker’s rink won 29-7 and Robert Panton’s rink won 21-13. O’Neil’s rink lost 23-14 and Robert Smith’s rink lost 31-11.

O’Neil said it was a real mixed day for the side.

“Snowy Barker’s rink smashed it all day,” he said. “Mine struggled a bit and Robert Smith also struggled but picked up three shots to influence the game.

“Rob Panton’s rink was able to get the two on the last end to get the win.”

O’Neil said the confidence of beating Bacchus Marsh in the second last round on their home green without two skippers had given them plenty of confidence heading into the finals.

“We went out there and knew if we played

solidly we could get the win,” he said. “It did help going out there knowing that we could beat them when we were a couple of skips down.

The win puts the Bees into the grand final where they will face Deer Park 2 in the grand final. The grand final will be played at a neutral venue.

O’Neil couldn’t remember the exact year they were last in a grand final, but said it had been “several years”.

“If we can get the win in the grand final we will get back into division 1,” he said. “That would be nice for the top side to be back in that grade.

“If we win the grand final then we go on to face the other section winners. The most important thing for us is to get back into division 1, everything else is a bonus.

“That is what we’re focusing on.”

It was a good day for the Bees with their third side also winning through to the grand final.

“We knew that we would have to be close to our best to win those games and we’ve done a good job to put ourselves in a position, but we’ve just got to remain focused and keep winning.”

Talbot said all his focus is now on Bellbridge this Saturday, with the winner locking themselves into finals, and the loser relying on other results.

“We’re just focussing on the game ahead of us,” he said.

“Bellbridge are a pretty strong team and they’ve been at this grade for a couple of seasons now, they’ve positioned themselves really well to be fighting for a finals position.

“So we just have to remain focussed, they’ve got some really big players and some top quality players that we have to combat and come up with a strategy to beat them.

“Both teams have to win, both teams are aware of that. So I think it’s going to be a super competitive match.

“It’s a game that we just have to win, the club’s been progressing really well. We’ve got ourselves into a position now which is something that we haven’t really done previously.”

The Warriors need a win

A loss on Saturday means Point Cook willneedtowinonSaturdaytoguarantee itself a spot in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association division 3 finals series.

On Saturday, the Warriors weren’t able to chase down the target set by Caroline Springs to secure their place.

After being sent to the field on the weekend before, the Warriors were able to restrict the Falcons to just 195, bowling them out in the 80th over.

Krishan Kumar was the Warriors best with the ball taking 4-37 from 26.3 overs.

In the chase the Warriors lost wickets inclumpsthroughouttheirinnings,with many of their batsmen getting starts without being able to get a decent score.

Batting at five, skipper Darcy Harmer top scored with 36.

The Warriors were bowled out for 174 in the 72nd over.

Sitting at four the Warriors will face fifth placed Pascoe Vale Hadfield on Saturday, where the winner will play finals.

Werribee Centrals’ winless streak continued on the weekend with a loss to Sunshine Heights.

After electing to bowl the Centurions kept Sunshine Heights to 185, bowling them out in 60 overs.

Waqar Shah was a clear standout with the ball taking 7-47.

The Centurions were valiant in the chasehowever,amiddleandlowerorder collapse didn’t give them much chance.

They first lost wickets four to six for just four runs, and then it’s last four wickets for just seven runs. With the innings coming to a halt at 147 from 52 overs.

The Centurions will play Kingsville on Saturday, where they will hope to register their first win of the season.

Rob Panton (Ljubica Vrankovic)

James Doolan (Ljubica Vrankovic)

Tigers lock in a spot in the north-west top six

Werribee has locked itself into the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association’s north-west top six following its win over fellow finals side Spotswood.

After bowling last week, the Tigers were able to chase down the 192 set by Spotswood, getting a three wicket win, finishing on 7-196 after 87.5 overs.

Captain-coach Tim O’Brien said he is pleased his side is playing finals for another season.

“It was obviously a really important game to try and sew up a finals spot,” he said.

“It’s a really close competition. It was coming down to the wire so we had to just keep winning games of cricket and we’ve been able to do that which has been good.”

Michael Kelly was a clear standout for the Tigers bowlers, taking 6-63 from his 20 overs.

“Last week he bowled really well, he hit his areas and got early wickets for us and put them on the back foot,” O’Brien said.

‘They got into a bit of a partnership after tea and we were lucky we were able to break the partnershipandgetanotherthreewicketsvery quickly to bowl them out. We really needed him to step up, the wicket suited spinners and he did a great job for us.

“They got off to a pretty solid start, so to have them six down at the tea break was really crucial. They played pretty well after tea when theybatted,sowhenwebrokethatpartnership we were able to knock them over and even more importantly we had to bat for 13 overs before stumps and we went through none down which really set us up for Saturday.”

In the chase, the Tigers were off to a great start, with opener Adam Alifraco top scoring

with 54. However, a middle order collapse meant it was up to O’Brien and Kelly to take them from 7-134 to 7-196.

“I think we were only 2-114 at tea, and I said to the guys that they did really strongly after tea with the bat and we fell away so it’s something that we’ll have to work on, we lost 5-17 at one stage which was disappointing,” O’Brien said.

This week Werribee will face Hoppers Crossing for the final round of the season where the winner will most likely make the top four.

‘We’ll just try and play our best cricket to try and get the win,” O’Brien said.

“We’dliketofinishfourthandputourselves in a position to maybe get a double chance but if we play our best cricket I’m sure we’ll be able to get a result.”

Gordon’s big decision

By Peter Howe

This month’s Don Deeble Sports Star Award nominee Mia Gordon might have some tough decisions to make over the coming years.

The 16-year-old is still in the Western Jets under 18 training squad hoping for a spot in their final team for 2024, but also part of Cricket Victoria’s Vic Metro under 16 emerging players squad.

The scholarship holder at Maribyrnong Sports Academy has spent three full years in the under 16 program and is hoping for a spot in the under 19 program.

“Ireallyenjoyplayingbothsportsandallof my coaches are very supportive of me playing the two sports at the moment,” Gordon said. “Cricket is number one, but AFL is right up there.”

Gordon grew up playing both football and cricket for Caroline Springs, where she has played over 100 games in both sports for the club. She has now amassed over 240 games of cricket for her pathway clubs.

Gordon is growing up with three brothers and her parents, all of whom played cricket in the summer and Aussie rules football in the winter.

“My parents are great role models, they are the best, their message to all of us is to enjoy

what you do and be the best you can be,” she said.

“I was eight years old when I realised I could get a Macca’s voucher if I played cricket and played well. That was my incentive to join up and play.”

Gordon was extremely disappointed to learn that the vouchers were not on offer after she joined but loved the game so much, she kept at it.

“I played in the Caroline Springs U11 boys’ team, I preferred to play against the boys because I saw it as more of a challenge early on,” she said.

Gordon was fast tracked and identified as a talented cricketer and was soon in the Victorian Metropolitan Representative under 12 team as a 10-year-old. She was then added to the under 14 and under 15 Youth Premier League Series. Soon the recruiters came knocking again and she was added to the Cricket Victoria under 15 Development Squad filling in a game as a twelve-year-old.

Gordon’s biggest break was to be selected in the first XI Premier Cricket team at Essendon Maribyrnong Park Cricket Club, aged 13.

“It was surreal,” she said.

“I was playing in a senior team with Australian cricketers, Molly Strano and Elyse

Villiani. I put my quick progression down to playing with strong mentors and under good people who only wanted the best for me.

“I have had so much support from Rob Ward, George Shaw, Libby Howe and Alison Whan as coaches from the beginning. My work ethic is to train how you play and my desire to be the best I can be for the team.”

Gordon has recently returned from the under 16 National Carnival in Hobart, where she opened the batting for Vic Metro and was the team’s most valuable player for the tournament.

“We won the championships for the first time in 14 years,” she said. “It was a great experience and I wish I could play the high level games every week.

“Everyone in the team knew their role and understood the game plans. It feels great when those plans come to fruition and everyone in the team just clicks.”

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

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

Sports shorts

Coates Talent League

The Coates Talent League boys and girls competitions will kick off at the end of March. The boy’s season will commence on the weekend of March 23, with six matches scheduled across the opening round. The Western Jets will kick off their season against the Northern Knights at Trevor Barker Beach Oval on Saturday morning. Round one for the girls will be played over two weekends starting with an Easter Thursday match, with the Jets having a bye.

Australia Cup

West Point and Point Cook are both through to the next round of the Australia Cup. West Point had a massive 7-1 win against Barnstoneworth United with Matthew Walker and Marchus Sherif scoring twice each. Point Cook had to work hard for the win against Baxter. Scores were locked at 1-1 at the final whistle, with Point Cook dominating extra time to win 4-1. West Point will play the winner of Yarra Jets and Sunbury United in the next round, while Point Cook will play Melton Phoenix. Hoppers Crossing, which comes into the competition in the third round, will face the Whittlesea Ranges.

VPL

Werribee City had to settle for sharing the points for a second straight round in the Victorian Premier League 1 competition. Facing Melbourne City on Friday night, the Bees led 1-0 at half time through Daniel Siccita. City levelled the scores in the second half, with the teams settling for a 1-1 draw. The Bees have five points after three rounds.

Athletics

Western Athletics’ Frankleen Newah-Jarfoi wrote himself into the record books on Saturday night. Newah-Jarfoi, along with Cody Hasler, Sebastian Sultana and Gout Gout produced the fastest ever junior 4 x 100 metre in Australia, breaking the Australian and Oceania under-20 record in a time of 39.12.

Michael Kelly (Jacob Pattison)317175_03

Mia Gordon (Ljubica Vrankovic)

Jake Smith carries on family legacy at Werribee

Western Jets’ reigning best and fairest winner Jake Smith is now the third person in his family to call Chirnside Park home.

The young gun has followed in the footsteps of his father Karl and grandfather Brian, signing a Victorian Football League contract with Werribee.

“Coming to Werribee has been awesome,” Smith said. “Last year I was training with them while still at the Jets, so I’ve got to know everyone and it’s a really good system down there and getting a contract at Werribee this year was unreal, especially to follow in the footsteps of my dad and my pa.

“Earlier last year my pa passed away so to carry on what he started I think is going to be really good and I’m really keen to be stuck into it.

“My Dad’s always been my biggest fan and my Pa always loved to come down and watch me throughout my juniors. I’m his youngest grandson and the only boy in my family so footy has always been a big part of their lives and for me to play, they’ve loved it.”

Last season Smith was dominant in the Coates Talent League, averaging 23 disposals and six tackles for the Jets. He said he is hoping to keep last season’s good form up to see how far it can take him.

“Winning the best and fairest was a great achievement, it was a goal of mine so if I can just carry that on going into a higher level of footy, I think I’ll put myself in a good spot to have a good season,” he said.

“AFL is always what I’ve wanted to do. For me to keep working hard is probably the

main goal and hopefully one day I can get there. But I’ll just take it one stage at a time for the moment.

“At Werribee they only want to see the players get better which is a great thing. So I think I’m in a good spot for me to keep going further with my footy.”

Following a grand final loss and lots of change on and off the field at Werribee, Smith said he is excited for what lies ahead for him and the team.

“It’s pretty much a whole new group, everyone is getting along well so I think we’re set up for a good year ahead,” he said.

“Looking forward to the season, it should be good.”

Preparations going well

By Tara Murray

The City West Falcons are throwing the combinations around as they look to prepare for all situations in the Victorian Netball League championship season.

Last season’s premiers have kept a large chunk of the premiership team, but have added some key pieces and will have a new look defence.

Throw in some uncertainty about whether any of their shooters will get called up to fill two Suncorp Super Netball vacancies, it’s been a busy few weeks for the Falcons.

Falcons coach Marg Lind said there was still a lot of unknown about this season, which has a new-look competition.

“We’ve been pretty busy with match play and getting a bit more structure,” she said.

“It’s hard to say [where we’re at], it’s different to see so many new faces.

“I thought we were well prepared.”

The biggest unknown for the Falcons at the moment, is whether any of their shooters will get call ups to the top competition.

TheMelbourneVixenshaveashootingspot open with Mwai Kumwenda announcing her pregnancy, while Mavericks goaler Sasha Glasgow, broke her leg in a practice match.

Falcons recruit Shimona Jok [nee Nelson] and Uneeq Palavi are both training partners for the new Mavericks Super Netball side.

Jok spent five seasons with the former Collingwood side and was one of the Super Netball’s top shooters.

Lind said they and the players were unsure what was happening at the moment and whether they would get the opportunity to step up.

“We signed an extra shooter in Genna Ogier as we new Maddy Gray was pregnant last year,” she said.

“In hindsight it’s a really good decision.”

Lind said Jok had fitted in really well and was enjoying the opportunity to play some goal attack out the front of Jane Cook.

Defensively it will be a slightly different looking defence.

Sui Sui has joined the club while Melissa? Has returned after 12 months off with a knee

injury.

“We’ve got options with Achel Yout in the under-23s who has been doing some match play, we’re keeping an options open “Sussu Liai has been a good pick up and Melissa Oloamanu and Lucia Fauonuku are a tried combination. Sophie Hanrahan has a bit more confidence after last year.”

Lind said they had been trying Fauonuku in goal defence not just in the midcourt with ChelseaImanisanisteppingup,whileMaggie Lind had been playing a bit more centre in the pre-season.

Lind said their under-23 side would be an unknown quantity, with that age group playing for the first time this season.

Lind said they would get a better idea of where they sit with both sides the first month of the season.

“We generally don’t start well,” she said. “As a club we didn’t perform until round four or five. We normally don’t do as much match play, so we fire at the right time of the season.

“We have some tough ones first up. We’ll have to start better than last year.”

WRFL’s new umpiring academy

The Western Region Football League Umpires association is set to launch its fourth umpiring academy.

The association has been running three academies MacKillop College Werribee, Hoppers Crossing Football ground and Saltwater reserve Point Cook for a number of years which has produced many umpires to service the WRFL.

These operate on Monday nights between 4-5pm and commence for this season on Monday, March 4.

The newest addition to the academies is to be based at Hanmer Reserve, Yarraville

The new program based in Maribyrnong is designed to cater for all new umpires in the local area, so aspiring umpires aren’t forced to travel too far to get the required training

The Yaravillle academy will open on Wednesday, March 6 between 5-6pm and after two weeks it will revert to Thursday nights 5-6pm.

The new academy will be led by former AFL field umpire Murray Bird, who officiated 43 top-level games. Bird is also a part of the Queensland AFL Hall of Fame.

These are free and experienced staff will teach you the basics of umpiring. The benefits include communications, management, control and fitness.

“The academies are designed to have a bit of fun, and there’s opportunities to earn some money and service football at all levels,” WRFL director of umpiring Steve Keating said.

“There are tremendous opportunities for women and girls. We really want to encourage women and girls to get involved.

“You can also both play and umpire other games in your area and we endeavour to keep you close to home.

“We had quite a number of kids who played Western Jets football but also to improve their fitness also boundary umpired senior footy on a Saturday or ran around in junior footy on a Sunday as well.”

Anyone interested males and females, should contact the WRFL offices for more information.

Harper Sercombe

Jake Smith. (Werribee Football Club)

Sophie Hanrahan will build on last season. (Robbab Photography)