Star Weekly - Hobsons Bay Maribyrnong - 22nd May 2024

Aviator touches down

By Cade Lucas

After more than a month spent flying solo aroundthecountry,MichaelSmith’sfeetareon the ground, but his head is still in the clouds.

“I’m on a bit of a high,” said the pilot and adventurer the day after landing in Point Cook, endinghis44-daycircumnavigationofAustralia.

The owner of Yarraville’s Sun Theatre and 2016 Australian Geographic Adventurer of the Year, Mr Smith’s flight around the country was to commemorate the 100th anniversary of wing commander Stanley James Goble and flight lieutenant Ivor Ewing McIntyre becoming the first people to circumnavigate Australia by plane.

“I feel elated,” said Mr Smith of how the recreation turned out.

“I’ve spent five years working on this. A good adventure starts early with an excel spreadsheet and lots of planning and to then actually do the trip and have it deliver exactly what I was hoping for, was exceptional.”

So exceptional that Mr Smith arrived back at RAAF Base Point Cook on Sunday afternoon at the exact time his predecessors did a century earlier.

“I wanted to be over Point Cook at 2.10pm because I wanted to arrive 100 years to the minute which put a lot of pressure on, but I did pull it off.”

It capped off a journey that Mr Smith kept as close to the original as possible, departing and arriving at same place on the same dates, following the same anti–clockwise route, and stopping at the same places along the way.

However, this was where his and Goble and McIntyre’s experiences began to part.

“I would land on the water where they did a 100 years ago to the day, but whereas they then hadtostayonthebeachforthenightandrefuel, I would then take off again and land at the local airport,” said Mr Smith whose amphibious SeaBear L65 aircraft dubbed ‘Southern Sun’ afforded him more flexibility that Goble and McIntyre’s Fairey Mk III D seaplane.

The vast difference in communications was also something Mr Smith appreciated.

“Theyweresoisolated.Oncetheyweregone, they relied on other people seeing them or arriving at their destination to know that they were okay,” he said contrasting it the radio, mobile phone and satellite technology that tracked his journey.

Despite flying up to seven hours per day, Mr Smith said it wasn’t hard to stay focused.

“There was no chance of getting bored because outside my left window was the Australian coast in all its glory,” he said of the landscape just 500 feet below.

“It’s like the difference between driving the Great Ocean Road and driving the Hume Highway. Your senses are heightened because of the surroundings,” said Mr Smith who nominated the Kimberly and Great Australian Bight as the highlights.

years before his next adventure takes off.

“I have some ideas but I’ve got a lot of work to do in the meantime.”

Details: https://www.southernsun.voyage/

Mike Smith returns the RAAF Ensign to Wing Commander Rob Gill, Commanding Officer of 21 Squadron. (Duncan Fenn) 408604_01

Wing Commander Rob Gill, David Goble (descendant of the WGCDR Stanley Goble) and Mike Smith. (Duncan Fenn) 408604_04

RAAF Base Point Cook welcomes back Michael Smith with a water cannon salute from the CFA and FRV. (Duncan Fenn) 408604_05

Have a say on Esplanade future

By Jennifer Pittorino

Hobsons Bay council will seek feedback through a community consultation process on the permanent closure of the Altona Esplanade betweenPierStreetandBentStreet.

Inareport,councilofficerssetoutaproposal to permanently close this section of the Esplanade, given the success of the seasonal closureswiththelocalandbroaderpublic.

The report also said the closure of the Esplanade would “support and commence” the reconstruction of the street into a pedestrian space as part of the Altona Foreshore RedevelopmentProject.

“This section of the Esplanade between Pier Street and Bent Street has been subject of seasonal closures and community consultation since2018-19,”thecouncilofficersreported.

Following the community consultation process, councillors will receive a report detailingtheresults.

After receiving support from the community for the Esplanade closure, council officers applied for funding for the foreshore redevelopment including the permanent closureoftheEsplanade.CouncillorTonyBriffa saidshewaspleasedtoseethestategovernment investinginthepopularAltonaarea.

“I love the Altona-Seaholme foreshore, and I

wanttoseeitgetbetterandbetter,”shesaid.

“It is great to see the state government investing and supporting us with upgrades to thearea,Ithinkit’sgoingtobegreat.”

The road closure is one part of the Altona Foreshore Redevelopment Project, with stage oneoftheprojectduetocommencein2024-25.

Pending feedback from the community, council said it already has a contract in place to commencetheworks.

“That part of the contract is subject to the further decision of the council, which is subject to consultation with the community, so we haven’t preempted a decision,” Cr Briffa assuredthecommunity.

Cyclist earns a round of a-paws

For his 80th birthday, Altona resident Ray LipscombchosetoridehisbikefromAlburyto Altona,toraisefundsforTheLostDogsHome.

Mr Lipscomb said he chose to celebrate his birthday differently this year and raise money for a cause near and dear to his heart.

“We rode on Wednesday, Thursday which was my birthday, and Friday from Albury to Altonawhichwasatotalof337kilometres,”he said.

Along for the ride was his son Ashley Lipscomb, and his two long-time friends and part of his support crew driving behind them, Charlie Montebello and Paul Baker. The crew arrived at the Hobsons Bay Men’s

Shed about noon on Friday, May 17, after cycling 54 kilometres each day.

With the support of his crew and local business The Bark Bakery in Altona, Mr Lipscomb has raised $12,000 of his $10,000 goal, which will be open for donations until May 31.

“I approached Jeanette Solarino from the bakery, she is a dynamic woman who makes dog treats and said she would love to support me on this journey,” he said.

“She has made up little packages to sell, and foreachpackageshesellswegetadonationfor the cause, she has sold about 60.

“We are very excited about raising that

much and beating out goals, we said we would be happy if we got $10,000 and now that we’re over we are hoping we might get $15,000.”

This is not the first time Mr Lipscomb has completed a big ride for a good cause, previously riding from Sydney to Melbourne several times to raise money for cancer research.

“This is my first time riding for dogs and I wanted to do something because I love them so much,” he said.

Details: https://the-lost-dogs-home.giveeasy. org/rays-bike-ride

Jennifer Pittorino

“We’re keeping an open mind, we’re getting feedback from the community, both for and against,withideasandsuggestions.”

Councillor Pamela Sutton-Legaud questioned why a contract was arranged prior tocommunityconsultation.

“I feel like there’s a contradiction between providing the contract and doing the consultation,”shesaid.

“It seems a little round the wrong way, so whilst I’m happy for it to go ahead, I can’t support the allocation of the contract at this point.”

Allcouncillorsvotedinsupportofthemotion besidesCrSutton-Legaud.

Council grants up for grabs

Maribyrnong council’s annual place-based initiatives grants program is now open for applications. Council said the place-based initiatives funding stream is for small-medium scale place-based activities which attract audiences of between 500 and 5000, that creatively activate public spaces, business precincts and local neighbourhoods.

Grantsofupto$20,000areavailable to not-for-profit organisations, incorporated community groups, and are available for activities that creatively activate Maribyrnong’s public spaces, business precincts and local neighbourhoods.

The round opens annually, usually in May through to June of each year, andcanbeappliedthroughanauspice arrangement.

Council said applications are assessed by council’s independent festivals and visitation advisory panel.

Recommendations will then be made to council for endorsement, with outcomes usually notified to successful applications in August or September.

There were several successful grant recipients for 2023-24, some of who were Floral Festival Bathukamma, L2R’s Block Party ,Braybrook BMX Fest , Multicultural Family Day Out at Pipemakers Park, Tilde Trans and Gender Diverse Film Festival, West Footscray Festival of Colours, Setting Sun International Film Festival and Westside Slam.

Funded activities must be delivered prior to June 30. Applications close Monday, June 3, at 4pm.

Details: https://shorturl.at/NSV04

cohealth hosts Braybrook Reconciliation Week celebration on May 30

In the lead-up to National Reconciliation Week, not-for-profit community health agency, cohealth is hosting a free event in Braybrook to encourage unity in the community.

cohealth’s Yakeen Tharn Aboriginal health team will be hosting the event with the help of Yorta Yorta man Glen Scott, who works to support other First Nations community members to improve their health and wellbeing.

National Reconciliation Week will run from Monday, May 27 to June 3, as a time for all Australians to learn about our shared

histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia.

“National Reconciliation Week is a time of reflection on our history but also as a crucial step toward healing and unity,” Mr Scott said.

Raised in Broadmeadows in Melbourne’s north, Mr Scott has had his own health challenges, having been diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, achronic inflammatory lung disease that causes obstructed airflow, as well as having overcome substance use issues.

With his chronic health issues now under

control, Mr Scott is passionate about helping Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people access the health and social support services they need and improving health equity for First Nations people.

Mr Scott said that reconciliation can play a crucial role in improving the health and wellbeing of Indigenous Australians by addressing both direct and indirect factors that contribute to their health outcomes.

“Reconciliation involves us all and it requiresusalltoworktogethertoacknowledge historical injustices and find our common threads,” he said.

“By coming along to one of the cohealth’s Reconciliation Action Week event, people can learn about the incredible contributions of First Nations people, and build bridges of empathy and mutual respect.”

Following a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony, attendees will have an opportunity to connect with each other, enjoy some live music and a free lunch.

TheeventwillrunatthecohealthBraybrook Community Hub, on Thursday , May 30, from 10am - 1pm.

Registrations essential. Details: www. cohealth.org.au/reconciliation-week-2024/

Jeanette Solarino, Ray Lipscombe, Charlie Montebello and Jessie. (Ljubica Vrankovic)_406738_03

By Jennifer Pittorino

HobsonsBaycouncilwilllaunchaninformation campaign outlining alternative options to the Level Crossing Removal Project’s (LXRP) plan to completely close the Champions Road crossingtotraffic.

LXRP announced its plan to completely close the crossing in October, 2022, sparking concernfromcouncilandresidents.

At a council meeting on May 14, councillors voted to “immediately begin” an information campaign about the Champion Road and MaddoxRoadlevelcrossingremovalprogram.

The campaign would include a newsletter sent to every household in Newport, Williamstown and Altona North, outlining council’s discussions with pipeline operators, its findings on Maddox Road traffic congestion and alternative options to LXRP’s proposal, a report to council said. It would also feature regularwebsiteandsocialmediapostings.

“Alltheinformationthathasgoneoutisvery one-sided and [the community] think council is supportive of the current proposal,” Cr Peter Hemphill said. “So here’s a real opportunity to getsomerealinformationoutthere.”

Cr Hemphill, who raised the idea of the

campaign, urged council to also oppose the removal of its planning controls in the area surround the project, as well as the takeover of Quarry Reserve as a staging point for works and the loss of parking on Ross Road, which is currently used as an overflow car park for Newport Mosque. Cr Hemphill said he and Cr Pamela Sutton-Legaud identified several problems, including an “unusually large planning project boundary”, after recently attendingameetingwiththeLXRP.

“It takes up all the streets and some of the council land in West Newport, Williamstown, industrial parts of Williamstown, Altona

Talented duo shine on stage

Two talented Williamstown brothers were born to be stars, with both Sebastian Sero and his younger brother Luka Sero having an impressive history in film and theatre.

Sebastianisonly11yearsoldandhasalready been involved in several stage plays, including his current gig with CLOC’S production of Billy Elliot at the National Theatre, playing no other than Billy himself.

Sebastian and Luka, 10, also perform together, recently sharing a role in Mary Poppins. They will soon tour Australia sharing the role of young Elvis in the touring productionofELVIS:TheMusicalRevolution.

“It’s really fun working together because we can prepare together and practise together which is really good,” Luka said.

The pair said they started auditing for opportunities at the age of five and have loved it ever since.

Being home-schooled, they are able to focus on their studies and have the flexibility to go to auditions and prepare for their time in the spotlight, while also rehearsing for their band.

“We have our home-schooling days where we focus on school and when we have a show we have a normal routine,” Sebastian said.

The boys often have Zoom sessions with their tutor Harry, watch a documentary during lunch, do more schooling and then head off to their big show.

With many aspirations for the future, both Sebastian and Luka are excited to explore any opportunity which comes their way.

“I will keep doing theatre which has always been my main thing and eventually hope to make it to Broadway one day,” Sebastian said.

“I might start getting a bit old for young theatre roles like, so I’ll probably focus more on getting on screen and getting my accent ready for movies and TV,” Luka said.

North and Altona. “I am told that it is very unusual to set a project boundary like this and goeshandinhandwiththeplanningcontrols.”

CrHemphillsaidthismeansthegovernment will gain control over council streets and council would need permission from the state governmenttodoworksonthosestreets.

A LXRP spokesperson said the project team has had frequent meetings with council since 2023. “Getting rid of two dangerous and congested level crossings at Maddox and Champion roads will improve safety and allow more trains to run in the future without increasingboomgatedowntime.”

Crime Briefs

Lewd act in West Footscray Detectives are appealing for public assistance after a man performed a lewd act in West Footscray in March. Investigators have been told a 41-year-old woman was sitting on a bench at the West Footscray Train Station forecourt when an unknown man approached her about 4.10pm on Wednesday, March 12. It is understood the man inappropriately touched himself beside the woman, before getting up and boarding a Sunbury-bound train. The man is perceived to be Caucasian in appearance and in his late 30’s, with dark, balding hair. He was wearing a black long-sleeve top and black pants.

Drug charges

Detectives from the Hobsons Bay Vehicle Crime Reduction Team charged a man and woman after allegedly locating a commercial quantity of drugs in Spotswood on Friday, May 10. Hobsons Bay Crime Investigation Unit detectives assisted with executing a search warrant at a property on McLister Street, Spotswood just after 11am. Officers arrested a 19-year-old Spotswood woman and a 25-year-old Doveton man at the scene. The duo will appear at the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on August 5. Anyone with information on either matter is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au

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Partners helping west students to thrive Council supports Champion Road

Students across Melbourne’s west, including those in Brimbank, will be supported to overcome barriers to education and realise their potential through a new sponsorship arrangement.

Greater Western Water (GWW) announced the new Thriving Communities strategic community sponsorship on May 9, which will provide$75,000to$25,000peryeartoWestern Chancesoverthenextthreeyears.

GWW’s Thriving Communities program funds projects and partners that support liveability and wellbeing programs to build stronger, deeper connections with our customersandcommunity.

Non-profit organisation Western Chances supports young people who are experiencing social and economic challenges to access educationandemploymentopportunities.

Its work seeks to address the high unemployment and below average rates of numeracy, literacy and high school completion inMelbourne’swest.

Since2004,theorganisationhashelpedmore than 3750 young people, investing in their futures through scholarships, internships and learningsupport.

GWW managing director Maree Lang said shewasproudtosupportWesternChancesand itsvaluablework.

“We want the best for the west and seek-out partners who share our vision. Western Chancesisanobviouspartner,” shesaid.

“This multi-year commitment will support scholarships and the West Connect event series, investing in young people throughout their educational journey and transition into careers.”

Western Chances chief executive Zac Lewis said support from key organisations such as GWW was monumental to grassroots organisations.

“We are thrilled to enter a three-year partnership with Greater Western Water,” he said. “It is phenomenal to have the support of suchatrustedleaderinthewestthatsharesour commitmenttoempoweringyoungpeopleand communitytothrive.

“This long-term partnership will provide much-needed support for young people facing financial hardship across the west by providing essential educational scholarships and opportunities to develop career readiness skills. Together with GWW, this partnership will uplift our young people through education, and support the wellbeing andprosperityofourcommunity.”

Luka and Sebastian Sero. (Ljubica Vrankovic)_407125_15

Push on for safe injecting rooms

A western suburbs MP has called for a medically supervised injecting room (MSIR) to be opened in Footscray and Brimbank.

Western Metropolitan MP David Ettershank, who represents Legalise Cannabis Victoria, raised the issue in state Parliament recently after the state government made the decision to scrap a proposed MSIR in Melbourne’s CBD.

The Braybrook-based MP said facilities were needed in the west in Brimbank and Footscray,aswellasinStKilda,Frankstonand Dandenong.

“This need is manifest. We should be pressuring the government to show some moral fortitude,” he said.

“There have been multiple reviews of

MSIRs in general in Victoria and of the North Richmond MSIR in particular. They all conclude that supervised injecting rooms work in saving lives and, more importantly, in helping people move towards recovery. Both in Richmond, and in jurisdictions across the world, it has been proven that these places save lives and the wrap around services they provide deliver a pathway to recovery and rebuilding lives, allowing people to deal with their trauma, their homelessness, their mental health and their broken relationships.”

Last year, the Victorian Coroner released the Victorian overdose deaths report which revealed that Maribyrnong recorded the state’s third-highest number of overdose deaths in Victoria.

The report showed that 22 people in Maribyrnong died of overdoses in 2022, the highest figure in the municipality in the past 10 years.

Itwasupfrom14in2021andwasonlyfourth behind the Melbourne local government area, which recorded 32 deaths.

Maribyrnongwasalsofourthforthenumber of heroin overdoses in 2022.

Fourteen people died of heroin overdose in 2022 – almost three times the number from the year before which stood at five.

Mr Ettershank said Victoria should be looking at establishing more MSIR facilities where they are needed.

“These are the facts: people suffering from addiction will use drugs whether there is an

Volunteers served up a pasta treat

Dolmio delighted 70 Foodbank volunteers with a spaghetti Bolognese lunch to say thank you for their hard work.

The lunch was held to recognise the important role of Foodbank volunteers in the lead up to National Volunteers Week running from Monday, May 20, to Sunday, May 26.

Foodbank Australia chief executive Brianna Casey said volunteers are an integral part of addressing food insecurity, especially as the number of households affected continues to rise.

“Volunteers are a vital part of Foodbank services, and without them, it simply wouldn’t

be possible to reach as many members of the community needing help as we do,” she said.

This comes following recent statistics from Foodbank that approximately 210,000 hours of volunteer time , with a value of around $4.9 million , were “donated” to help them tackle food insecurity in 2023.

Ms Casey said Foodbank is thankful to Dolmio for celebrating its volunteers, putting the spotlight on their value and helping them to feel appreciated.

“We are grateful to Dolmio for supporting our work for the fourth consecutive year,” she said.

Mars food and nutrition Australia general manager Bill Heague said the team at Dolmio are passionate about food.

“We believe that the joy of connecting over foodshouldbesomethingthateveryonegetsto enjoy,” he said. “Sadly, there are an increasing number of Australians who are struggling.

“This means, at the very least, they are reducing the quality, variety, or desirability of their food and at worst, their eating patterns are disrupted.

“Foodbank volunteers play a critical role in helping to make a meaningful difference to food insecurity across Australia.”

injecting room available or not,” he said.

“... Without a safe place to inject drugs, people will continue to inject in alleyways, in car parks and in the unoccupied spaces behind primary schools. When there is a safe place to inject, a safe injecting facility, they will use that,” he said.

A state government spokesperson said it has no plans to establish additional medically supervised injecting services and it is “fully committed” to continuing the operation of the North Richmond MSIR.

“Victorians struggling with addiction deserve our care wherever they are, and our statewide plan will save lives by boosting support services throughout our suburbs and regions,” the spokesperson said.

Police blitz, 20 arrests

Twenty people were arrested during a three-daypoliceblitzinFootscray’sCBD.

Operation Delta was run by the Westgate Alliance Taskforce and Maribyrnong Crime Investigation Unit from May 10 – 12.

Police said the weekend operation involved detectives patrolling popular community locations across Maribyrnong to deter and detect anti-social behaviour.

This included local shopping strips, parks, licensed premises and shopping centres.

During patrols of Nicholson Street in Footscray, detectives arrested seven people wanted on 23 outstanding warrants.

This included a man and woman aged 29 and 36, who were arrested for an aggravated burglary in Footscray on April 29.

Police said 34 people were spoken to over the weekend and 13 further people were arrested for a range of offences including robbery and theft.

Onearrestfollowedanallegedstabbing on Buckley Street, Seddon, on Friday.

Detectives arrested a 19-year-old Flemington man shortly after and later charged him with intentionally causing injury.

Maribyrnong crime investigation unit Detective Senior Sergeant Megan O’Sullivan said, “We’re focused on keeping Footscray’s CBD safe for everyone who works, visits or lives there.

“That’s why we’re continuing to run targeted operations like Delta to prevent anti-social and keep offenders accountable.

“Shopping centres including Highpoint will also remain a priority.”

Hobsons Bay urges action to stop violence against women

Hobsons Bay council has shown its support for women experiencing violence at the hands of men, by writing to Premier Jacinta Allen, calling for urgent action.

In a council meeting on Tuesday, May 14, councillor Pamela Sutton- Legaud said she would like to propose a matter of urgency to respond to “the recent terrible violence against women”.

“I am asking that council officers write to the premier of Victoria, asking for urgent action to reduce the number of women killed by violence each day,” she said.

It also asks council officers to produce a

report on effective measures taken by council in the past four years, and plan future action to reduce the impact of violence against women in Hobsons Bay, as well as identifying how council has responded as a signatory to the 2030 Western Region strategy to prevent violence against women.

Cr Sutton-Legaud said although it is an unusual situation to bring up as a matter of urgent business, she felt it necessary given the recent violence in the country, the world and Hobsons Bay.

“I felt it was important that we raised this as a council issue as we are the body closest to

the community in terms of government,” she said.

Cr Sutton-Legaud briefly mentioned her own experience with violence against women, sharing how her mother and sisters were affected by her father’s “frustration“.

“At the time there was no one he could talk to about his worries, about his three young daughters, his challenges finding work, his problemswithalcohol,whichwaswhyhetook that frustration out on my mother,” she said.

“Women make up 50 per cent of Hobson Bay’s base population, and 50 per cent of them say they do not feel safe walking down

the street at night, and we live in a very safe community compared with many others. “If we want a world where no women die through violence, we need to change.”

Cr Daria Kellander said Ms Allen is the best person in a position of power to implement some form of policy change.

“I know way too many women who have been victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and rape, both by men who are known to them and unknown to them and it has has a lifelong impact on these women,” she said.

“So I’m supporting this motion for them.” Jennifer Pittorino

Vincent Manning and Niyoka Bundle from Pawa Catering who helped the Dolmio team serve the volunteers. (Ljubica Vrankovic)_407120_13

Hockey pavilion work awarded

Hobsons Bay council has awarded a $4 million contract to Fleetwood Australia for the redevelopment of the Altona Hockey Club Pavilion.

In its meeting on Tuesday, May 14, council agreed to award the contract for the pavilion refurbishment,whichcouncilsaidis“nolonger fit for purpose.”

The Altona Hockey Club is located at Sugar Gum Drive in Altona. It was built in the 1960s and extended in the 1980s and comprises a social room, toilets, kitchen, bar, office and two

change rooms.

“It is an old building with facilities that do not meet the current requirements,” said a council report.

“The project consists of the demolition of the existing pavilion and the construction of a new modular pavilion.”

The new pavilion will include four change rooms with amenities, two umpire facilities, a first aid room, storage, social space, a kitchen and public amenities.

These works will be undertaken in the

Celebrating Footscray

Lifelong Footscray resident Adrian Ortega is preparing to start filming his second feature film ‘Westgate’, by raising much-needed funds through the Australian Cultural Fund.

Production is scheduled to start in July, and although the team has raised the funds required to film, Ortega said any extra would go far into making it the best it can possibly be.

“This time I have used the Australian CulturalFundtocrowdfundthefilm,”hesaid.

“They’re a really great government website which supports artists in all different kinds of art, and we have already reached our target which is great news.”

Ortega said he needed $5000 to produce his film which will celebrate Footscray and the western suburbs of Melbourne in the ‘90’s.

“The good news is we can go past our target and raise more, the more we raise, the better resources we can afford for the film.”

With the team gearing up to start filming in less than two months, Ortega is excited to

share his latest passion project with fellow westies.

“I will soon be making my second feature film which is a very personal story about my childhood growing up in fifth grade in the late 90’s,” he said.

Ortega thinks anyone who grew up in the west will have an immediate connection to the film, and will be available for viewing next year.

“It touches on the theme of single parenting and migration, and will also tie into the history of the West Gate collapse of 1970,” he said.

“It will focus on the West Gate disaster and how it affected so many migrant workers whose children and grandchildren are still around.”

The fundraiser will end on Friday, May 31.

Details: https://donations. australianculturalfund.org.au/s/project/ a2EMn000005R9QvMAK/westgate-featurefilm

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off-season of hockey.

Councillor Tony Briffa said the club is an importantpartoftheHobsonsBaycommunity andmembershavewaitedfortherefurbishment for a long time.

“They do amazing work with the local community. They support the diversity of our community as well and have amazing days for recognising our First Nations people and LGBTQIA plus people,” she said.

“Theyhavelongwaitedforthisandhavebeen very patient in waiting for this, as have a lot of

the clubs around the Altona sporting precinct.

“I’m really pleased that this is now their turn and very much look forward to the commencement of the works, but more importantly the works being finished.”

Councillor Peter Hemphill said the refurbishment fits in with council’s sports needs analysis of 2018, which assesses sports facilities in the municipality.

“I think this is a good outcome and I am pleased to have helped the club get to this point,” he said.

Adrian Ortega (Damjan Janevski) 406495_08.

‘We’re angry’: School cleaners

By Zoe Moffatt

Two long-serving school cleaners spoke at Victorian Labor’s State Conference at the weekend, demanding an end to a privatised schoolcleaningsystemthathasseencleaners’ hours cut and in some cases wages more than halved.

This demand stems from the major shake-up of cleaning contracts, in which the state government awarded school cleaning contracts to Serco and Tradeflex for 2024,

slashing cleaners hours across Melbourne’s north-west.

The cleaners put forward a resolution at conference, condemning the state government’s decision to maintain privatised cleaning contracts across government schools, impacting more than 3000 cleaners.

Speaking after the conference, United Workers Union property services director Lyndal Ryan said they were there to tell Education Minister Ben Carroll

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that he needs to listen to the cleaners and union.

“We’re angry, we’re upset … we will never give up our campaign,” Ms Ryan said. “We need Ben Carroll to fix this mess.

“He needs to listen to us, we’re not going to sit there passively … he needs to listen to us, he needs to listen to the cleaners.”

The cleaners’ resolution states that it’s “reprehensible that this Victorian Labor government has stood by and allowed the companies that they pay to clean

our schools (to) cut the hours and pay of workers”.

“[They] went into Christmas 2023 with no public holiday pay (and) having their hours cut, pay slashed and conditions lost for 2024, with some workers losing up to 60 per cent of their income.

“One example is a Union Member having their wage cut from $49,000 in 2023 to $19,000 for this year.”

Ms Ryan said the state government should not privatise essential government services.

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The Altona Hockey Club has unveiled its grand new scoreboard in time for the 2024 season, which was funded through a $48,000 donation by the West Gate Tunnel Project.

PresidentBrianFanningsaidthecommittee applied for the grant last year and is pleased to finally be enjoying the outcome.

“We previously had a scoreboard which was very old so we thought that it would be a good chance to update it and get more interaction with the crowd,” he said.

“The scoreboard will allow us to display our sponsorsandvariousclubmessageswithafew other things.”

Along with the West Gate Tunnel Project, the project was also funded through the club’s sponsors, Burlin Electrical who handled the electrical work, and Werribee Steel who built and installed the frame.

“They are long-time sponsors of ours who

provided materials and labour to get the project up and running,” he said.

“It is particularly important because we’re having the men’s and women’s premier league, where it is a requirement to have the scoreboard which displays many features.”

This includes a timing feature, which is linked to the technical bench and laptop, controlled by both clubs competing.

This is a feature which has impressed everyone, according to Mr Fanning.

“It is a lot easier to control, rather than the old scoreboard which was linked to an old school remote control,” he said.

“It also has the ability to send messages to the crowd and display our sponsors for the whole game which they are very pleased with.

“Everyone is very impressed with it , including opposing cubs who have visited.”

The Altona Hockey Club with the new scoreboard. (Supplied)

The cleaners put forward a resolution at the Victorian Labor State Conference (supplied). (supplied).

United Workers Union (supplied).

Institute work saves history

By Councillor Pamela Sutton-Legaud

The Williamstown Mechanics’ Institute has been an important part of our community for well over a century.

It’s a great symbol of the story of Williamstown – a seaport that expanded to becomeawonderfultownandcommunityas the gold rush and increase trade took effect in the second half of the 19th century.

The Mechanics’ Institute has been many things over time. It’s been an educational facilty, a cinema, theatre, library and more.

In more recent times, it was the home to community organisations such as the Williamstown Historical Society and the Williamstown Musical Theatre Company.

The Mechanics’ Institute and the caretaker’s cottage at the back of it have been closed since 2018. Some structural maintenance has been done but more work is needed for safety and building upgrades.

This year, work will begin to restore the cottage and now attention is turning to the main building itself.

We want to hear from the community about what you think the Mechanics’ Institute should be used for in the future. What role do you think it can play?

Your opinions can help shape a new master plan for the site, and I’m so excited to see what our community wants from this beautiful and important building.

You can have your say at participate. hobsonsbay.vic.gov.auuntilTuesday,May28.

Councillor Pamela Sutton-Legaud.

Briefs

NaviLens

Yarra Trams will trial NaviLens wayfinding technology at Footscray station until July 31. NaviLens is an app designed to assist individuals with low vision or blindness navigate the city’s transport system. The app uses distinctive coloured QR codes that can be scanned from up to 20 metres away. Once scanned the NaviLens app provides users with audio and text-based navigational information. A total of 22 codes will be installed on the ground at Footscray Station (Route 82), spanning from tram stop 63 (Leeds Street) to the bus bays on Irving Street, and leading to the ground floor elevator entry of Footscray station.

Murder charge struck out

A 12-year-old girl accused of killing a woman in Footscray will no longer face a charge of murder. Prosecutors on Thursday applied to withdraw the charge against the girl but did not give a reason why. The magistrate withdrew and struck out the charge of murder. She is not facing any other offences. The girl, who cannot be identified for legal reasons, was accused of fatally stabbing a 37-year-old woman at Footscray in November. A psychiatrist was assessing the child’s age of criminal responsibility, also known as doli incapax. - AAP

FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT

Web: starweekly.com.au

Maribyrnong & Hobsons Bay Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Awakening Footscray with art

South by South East Asian (SXSEA) hosted its second edition of SXSEA, in collaboration with Big Bao.

Part of the Sleepless Festival in Footscray, the event brought an abandoned shopfront

at the Metro West Shopping Centre to life on Saturday, May 18 for a night of performances from several artists.

Founder Pranati Narayan Visweswaran said more than 60 people enjoyed the show.

“We were incredibly pleased to host SXSEA Vol. 2 with Big Bao, featuring artists Yeo and The Clever References,“ she said.

“Bringing the empty shop to life was challenging but really brought the team

together, and we couldn’t have done it without the help of Sleepless Festival, Corey Bulley, Strangeworld Studios, Maria Nguyen, Farfaglia Artistry, and all our SXSEA friends and family who turned up and helped out.“

Celebrating IDAHOBIT

Maribyrnong council celebrated international Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Intersexism (IDAHOBIT) on Friday, May 17, by hosting a flag raising ceremony.

Councillors in attendance included deputy mayor Michael Clarke, Cr Bernadette Thomas and Cr Jorge Jorquera. The councillors were joined by keynote speaker, drag artist Valerie Hex.

IDAHOBIT is a global day of action to stand against LGBTQIA+ discrimination and

celebrate diversity.

“As a local government, we have the ability to create lasting and impactful change at a grassroots level, and that means supporting, including and safeguarding the LGBTIQA+ community,“ a council spokesperson said.

“Raising the pride flag is an important symbol of council’s support and part of our ongoing commitment to the community, and the work we’re doing to enact our LGBTIQA+ Strategy and Action Plan.“

The flag was raised at the Braybrook Community Hub. 405768_15

Attendees proudly show their rainbow colours.

Guest speaker Valerie Hex.

Councillor Michael Clarke. (Damjan Janevski) 405768_01

More than 60 people attended the show.

The Clever References.

The event was held in abandoned shopfront of Metro West Shopping Centre. (Byran Lee and Minhy)

Yeo and Smallfry.

Yeo with audience members.

Yeo was one of the performers on the night. (Maria Nguyen)

MY PLACE

Athlete and student Saffron Canny-Smith tells Jennifer Pittorino about her career so far and her need for a sponsor.

Can you tell us your name and job title?

My name is Saffron Canny-Smith and I’m currently studying a masters of dietetics full-time and training as an elite athlete for speed skating.

Tell us a bit about you and your sporting career?

I am a long track speed skater, which involves racingona400micetrack.Icompletedmyfirst season in this sport this past summer in the Netherlands. Prior to that, I was only training in short track speed skating, which involves a 111m ice track. I race all distances in long track speed skating but primarily specialise in the middle distances, 1000m and 1500m.

Tell us about your most recent competitions and why you need sponsors?

My most recent competition was the FISU World University Championships for speed skating held in Hamar, Norway. I represented Victoria University and Australia in this competition and competed in the 500m, 1000m, 1500m and mass start races. It was an incredible opportunity and really helped to develop my international racing experience. Due to all my competitions being held overseas, as well as the only quality training and 400m race tracks being offered overseas, it is a very expensive endeavour for me to train and compete in speed skating. Thus, I am looking for support from local businesses in the form of sponsorship.

Tell us your favourite thing about your sportingcareerandwhyyouhopetocontinue. It is hard to choose just one thing that I love aboutmysportingcareer,butifIhadtochoose, I would say the challenge. I love being able to push both my body and mind to the limits to

see what I can achieve. I want to keep pursuing speed skating to see just how far I can get and all that I can achieve.

Tell us about what a sponsor would need to do for you. Asponsorwouldenablemetocontinuetraining

(Ljubica Vrankovic)_405719_05

andcompetingatahighlevel.Asponsorwould help to provide me with financial support and aid in covering my sporting expenses. In return, I would be promoting them through social media channels and providing room for their logo to be featured on racing suits and more.

What’s your connection to Maribyrnong or Hobsons Bay?

I have grown up and lived my entire life within the Maribyrnong area. I also currently study full-time at Victoria University.

What do you like about where you live?

I love the community here. I have always felt so welcomed into the community and supported. I love being able to walk around my neighbourhood and bump into friends and people I know, whether it be the local cafe owner or an old primary school peer.

Where is your favourite local place to spend time?

Ilovecyclingalongthewaterfrontaspartofmy training. Cycling along the Maribyrnong River and then along past Williamstown Beach and finishingatAltonaBeachisoneofmyfavourite training rides and a great way to see the west side. Of course, I always have to finish my ride with a coffee stop at a local cafe.

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

Because there are no 400m ice tracks in Australia, my training in Australia involves a lot of cross-training, so I spend a lot of time on the 111m ice tracks, road cycling, roller blading, and in the gym.

Is there anything else you’d like to say?

I would just like to say thank you to all of the local businesses in the inner west. Whether or not you realise it, you have contributed immensely to my upbringing and sporting career, from coffee stops at local cafe, to buying my first pair of runners from a local running store, to bumping into a local photographer whilst on the train to university. Thank you.

100%

FEATURING ... HEALTHY LIVING

Natural ways to fight off the dreaded common cold

Treating a cold typically involves managing symptoms and supporting the body’s natural immune response. While there is no cure for thecommoncold,severalnaturalremediescan help alleviate symptoms and promote faster recovery. Here are some natural ways to treat a cold:

Stay Hydrated: One of the most important steps in managing a cold is to stay hydrated. Drinkplentyoffluidssuchaswater,herbalteas, clearbroths,andelectrolyte-richdrinkstohelp soothe a sore throat, thin mucus, and prevent dehydration.

Rest and Relaxation: Allow your body to rest and recuperate by getting adequate sleep and reducing physical exertion. Resting helps conserveenergyandallowstheimmunesystem to focus on fighting off the viral infection causing the cold.

Steam Inhalation: Inhaling steam can help relieve congestion and ease nasal discomfort. Fill a bowl with hot water, place a towel over your head to create a tent, and breathe in the steamforseveralminutes.Addingessentialoils such as eucalyptus or peppermint can enhance the decongestant effects.

Warm Saltwater Gargle: Gargling with warm saltwater can soothe a sore throat and reduce inflammation. Mix a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water, gargle for 30 seconds, and then spit out. Repeat several times a day as needed.

Honey and Lemon: Honey has natural antibacterial properties and can help soothe a cough and sore throat. Mix a teaspoon of honeywithwarmwaterorherbaltea,andadda squeeze of lemon for additional vitamin C and throat soothing benefits.

Nasal Saline Rinse: Using a saline nasal rinse or spray can help clear nasal passages, reduce congestion, and alleviate sinus pressure. Make a saline solution using distilled water and non-iodized salt, and use a neti pot or nasal spraybottletoirrigatethenasalpassagesgently.

Herbal Remedies

Echinacea: Echinacea is an herb known for its immune-boosting properties. Taking echinacea supplements or drinking echinacea tea may help reduce the severity and duration of cold symptoms.

Ginger: Ginger has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help relieve cold symptoms such as sore throat, cough, and congestion.Enjoygingerteaoraddfreshginger to soups and meals.

Elderberry: Elderberry syrup or capsules are

often used to support the immune system and reducecoldsymptoms.Elderberryhasantiviral properties and may help shorten the duration of a cold.

Garlic: Garlic contains compounds with antiviral and antibacterial properties. Adding fresh garlic to meals or taking garlic supplements may help boost immune function and fight off cold viruses.

Warm Compress: Applying a warm compress to the sinuses or chest can provide relief from congestion, sinus pain, and chest discomfort. Use a warm towel or heating pad and apply it gently to the affected area for a few minutes at a time.

Essential Oils: Certain essential oils have antiviral, antibacterial, and decongestant properties that can help alleviate cold

symptoms. Peppermint, eucalyptus, tea tree, and lavender oils can be used in a diffuser, steam inhalation, or diluted with a carrier oil for chest rubs.

Healthy Diet: Consuming a nutritious diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains provides essential nutrients and antioxidants that support immune function. Avoiding excessive sugar, processed foods, and alcohol can also help support immune health during a cold.

Humidifier: Using a humidifier in your bedroom can add moisture to the air, soothe dry nasal passages, and ease breathing. Keep the humidifier clean to prevent mold and bacteria growth.

Probiotics: Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that support gut health and immune function. Consuming probiotic-rich foods such as yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi may help boost the immune system and reduce the severity of cold symptoms.

Avoiding Irritants: Minimise exposure to irritants such as cigarette smoke, pollutants, and strong chemicals, as they can exacerbate respiratory symptoms and prolong recovery from a cold.

It’s important to note that while these natural remedies can help alleviate cold symptoms and support the body’s immune response, they are not substitutes for medical treatment, especially if symptoms worsen or persist. If you have underlying health conditions or concerns about your cold, consult with a healthcare professional for personalised advice and treatment recommendations.

Foot

and heel pain help

Foot and heel pain are extremely common yet there is much misinformation about these conditions often leading to misdiagnosis, resulting in incorrect or inappropriate treatment.

One of Australia’s most experienced foot, knee and leg pain experts and Musculoskeletal Podiatrists, Dr Paul Dowie from Foot and Leg Pain Clinics, who provided some insight.

cortisone injections. In such cases these can result in worsening the condition.

“Foot and leg pain needs to be diagnosed and managed correctly by determining the contributing factors, not by only addressing symptoms. Most foot and leg pain is musculoskeletal in nature so even your local GP, orthotist and general podiatrist may not have the specific training and experience in lower limb musculoskeletal medicine to effectivelymanagefootandlegpain,injuryand degenerative conditions,“ he explained.

With over 25 years’ experience in lower limb musculoskeletal medicine, Dr Dowie explains that ’Plantar Fasciitis’ is one of the most commonly misdiagnosed foot complaints. This can occur when tissue thickening evident on diagnostic scans is misinterpreted as inflammation,leadingtoincorrectlyprescribed treatments such as anti-inflammatories and

“There are many different types and causes of foot pain but the most common occurs when the plantar fascia (connective tissues running along the bottom of the foot) becomes overloaded, resulting in degeneration of the tissues and/or irritation of the nerves. These conditions are commonly misdiagnosed as inflammatory conditions when they are NOT inflammatory in nature. Most foot and heel pain is a result of faulty foot function or lower limb biomechanics and environmental factors, and that is what needs to be treated – not inflammation. We need to treat the cause, not the symptom and accurately assess the nature of each condition to achieve long-term healing.

Degenerative and inflammatory conditions require very different treatment, so they must not be confused,” Dr Dowie added.

If you’d like expert advice about any foot, knee or leg pain, you can book an appointment with Dr Dowie at his Foot and Leg Pain Clinic in Williamstown. Call 1300 328 300.

Can better hearing keep Alzheimer’s, dementia away?

Did you know that long-term hearing impairment is associated with Alzheimer’s and dementia?

Audiologist Amanda Nguyen from Active Audiology says recent studies of thousands of people in the US and UK have shown that, over time, hearing impaired individuals showed greater cognitive decline and a higher chance of cognitive impairment than people with normal hearing.

Amanda says she has analyzed these trials closely.

“The trials showed that hearing impaired people who used hearing aids had better cognition than those who didn’t,” she explained.

“In my day-to-day work, I see a noticeable change in behaviour when I see clients after a few weeks of wearing hearing aids.

“The communication pathways in the brain need to be stimulated, no differently to how other muscles in the body need to stay active. Whenyouwearahearingdevicetoassistwith hearing loss, even a mild one, you are keeping that pathway active and healthy.”

We exercise to keep our bodies active and healthy. Wearing well-chosen hearing devices for your hearing loss, has the same positive benefit on our brain to keep that active and healthy.

Active Audiology is offering trials of the latest technology.

Amandasays“thebestwaytofindahearing aid that works is by using them in listening situations you find challenging, so our trial offercanbeahugehelp.Whateverthehearing issues, we have a large selection of devices from all the leading manufacturers. After thorough assessment, we’ll recommend the right device - one that’s comfortable and will give the best long-term chance of remaining mentally active and healthy.”

Audiologist Amanda Nguyen.

The clinic is government-accredited to provide fully subsidised hearing services and aidstopensionersandDVAGoldcardholders, as well as services to self-funded retirees.

Testing for children over the age of four, tinnitus testing and diagnosis and custom made noise plugs are also available.

In its 13 years of operation, Active Audiology has maintained a focus of ongoing training in the latest technology and clinical findings to ensure audiologists remain experts in the field. Unlike other larger corporate clinic, Active Audiology is wholly independent. Audiologists are not tied to a particular brand. They prescribe technology without the risk of commercial bias, ensuring 100 per cent clinical and ethical care for your hearing needs.

ActiveAudiology,Altona,isopen9am-5pm Monday-Friday.Enquiries:93983331orwww. activeaudiology.com.au

A tale of loyalty and courage

Dr Dzavid Haveric is Adjunct Research Fellow at Charles Sturt University, Centre for Islamic Studies and Civilisation and a leading expert on the history of Islam and Muslims in Australia. He is the author of 13 books and a research associate at Museum Victoria. He speaks with Justin Flynn about his upcoming book that extensively documents the

and their descendants in war.

As I sit down in Dr Dzavid Haveric’s home it is immediately obvious he is looking forward to our conversation. His eyes gleam with anticipation as we settle in to discuss his new book that focuses on Muslim Australians at war. Even his dog Hugo seems to look forward to it as he curls up at my feet in the loungeroom.

Announced as Australian Muslim Professional of the Year in February, the research Dr Haveric put into this labour of love was, according to the man himself, “thousands of hours… endless”.

The book, ‘History of Muslims in the Australian Military from 1885 to 1945’, took Dr Haveric to almost every corner of the country. He spoke to descendants of Muslim soldiers, talked to their friends, visited libraries, museums and RSL clubs, walked through cemeteries, spoke with scholars, and collected diaries, photographs and letters.

The project received the backing of the Department of Defence and Charles Sturt University.

Dr Haveric began researching the book in 2018. A visit to a lonely headstone of a Muslim soldier inspired the project.

‘‘ When they did join, they found a sense of equality and they willingly accepted the call ’’ - Dzavid Haveric

“This is a very original topic,” he proudly says.

“Nothing is written about it and if someone is trying to do the same they can only follow my references. This is why I’m emphasising the originality of my project and if someone wants to do research on that subject, then they can only follow my footpath.

“But on top of everything, my book will be a great reference for all scholars, to universities, to museums, to RSL clubs, to war memorials and on an international level as well.”

Dr Haveric immigrated from war-torn Bosnia in the mid-1990s. His love for Australia and its people from all walks of life and religions is evident.

“My love for the country inspired me and the reason why I decided to do this project is simply because I was very challenged to produce an original piece of work and to enrich Australian social military history,” he says.

“This is a wonderful nation and I wanted to contribute as a professional historian. I wanted to contribute with this project and to show all Australians, not just Muslims, to all fellow citizens and to the world that we are great.”

Dr Haveric shares his name with his uncle, who is a national hero in Bosnia.

“My uncle is the very first Muslim who fought against the Nazis in the Second World War,” he says.

“He is a national hero and I got his name in his honour.”

Not much has been documented of Muslim Australians in the defence force.

“Theywereproudtoserve,”DrHavericsays.

“They were highly regarded by their Australian mates. They got great recognition for their contribution. Some of them lost their life because they wanted to fight for Australia.

“Their willingness to respond to the call and their patriotism and their loyalty and their contribution and their sacrifice was for a noble cause.

“They fought together with other followers of other nationalities or other religions or other cultures, not necessarily religious

history of Muslim Australians

beliefs, but cultures, because there are some atheists as well.

“According to Islamic doctrine it is the duty of Muslims to defend the country, even against a Muslim country.”

Dr Haveric says many Muslim Aussies were denied the chance to defend their country due to the White Australia policy.

“The reason why there is not a larger number of Muslims in the Australian army is because White Australia policy didn’t allow them,” he says.

“(But) when they did join, they found a sense of equality and they willingly accepted the call and they contributed in their way as a minority group. They were very proud and very keen to do their bit.”

Muslim Australians and their descendants weren’t just restricted to combat either.

“A lot of women were also involved in sewing uniforms and some were herbalists who offered their help to heal wounded soldiers,” Dr Haveric says.

“Women also contributed in hospitals. There are also those who gave their last penny.”

Dr Haveric baulks when asked how many Muslims served, insisting it will be revealed at the book launch soon.

Instead he says that he had to approach some topics with extra sensitivity.

“(There are) many stories of Muslims of many different backgrounds, different sects, you have to approach people of different sects (and) it’s not always easy,” he says.

“You have to have cultural sensitivity. You have to have knowledge of other sects because Islam is heterogenic. It’s not monolithic, you know.

“In Islam it’s a complex topic. So I have brought many stories. Some stories are touching stories, sad stories, some are happy stories.”

I go off on a tangent as I am served some delicious cake with strawberries and fresh cream and say that my Italian grandfather,

who served in WWII for Australia, went from Giovanni to John after he immigrated from northern Italy.

Dr Haveric says many Muslims also took anglicised names to fit in and just because they were easier to pronounce and remember.

“Like myself, people calling me David, but I’m Dzavid (pronounced Javid),” he says.

“If someone doesn’t remember my name I just say ‘call me David’, but I love it if someone really calls me Dzavid.

“So many of them were with unrecognised names. Like Hussein was called Bob or they were Jack, Jimmy, John, Mark.”

The book is in its final stages of typesetting and awaiting its launch. Its subtitle is ‘loyalty, patriotism and contribution’.

I wonder whether that goes some way into summing up Dr Haveric himself.

The last thing I ask Dr Haveric is whether this will be his legacy.

“There will never be another book like this ever,” he says.

Left: Dr Dzavid Haveric ahead of the launch of his book

‘History of Muslims in the Australian Military from 1885 to 1945’.

Above: Dr Dzavid Haveric in 2018 as he was about to begin researching his book. (Pictures: Justin Flynn)

VU survey aims to boost sport inclusion, equity

Victoria University professor Ramon Spaaij is leading a community-focussed project on anti-racism in community sport, funded through a VicHealth Impact Research Grant.

Mr Spaaij, who is collaborating on the study with Monash University , said the aim of the project is to enhance equity and inclusion across the Victorian community sport sector so that everyone can enjoy the health benefits of safe and inclusive community sport.

“We don’t really know what effective racism looks like in community sports, but what we do know is that racism continues to be a persistent issue,” he said.

“This affects participation but also the health and social connectedness of people from non English backgrounds or CALD backgrounds.

“So we are really trying to enhance our understanding of what is driving that racism and also how it is changing over time.”

To do this, Mr Spaaij has created a survey in which he hopes to capture that information.

“We are looking for local residents and people in grassroots communities to take part in this survey,“ he said.

“These people might be from sporting clubs or informal sporting groups.

“Wearealsodoingaseriesofinterviewswith key experts, both within sport organisations and also community based experts.“

As long as you are over 18-years-old and from the west, you will be able to participate in the survey.

“These people might have been exposed to these barriers so they don’t feel welcome or they’ve experienced forms of discrimination,” he said.

“We want to try to capture what their experience has been like in terms of the types of racism that occur, how often it occurs, and how it’s been dealt with.”

Budget win for Storm

By Jennifer Pittorino

Newport Storm FC will receive $200,000 from the state budget for long-awaited funding to install fencing and netting around its home reserve.

Club president Zayed Halloum said the community club was founded in 2020 and plays its home games at A W Bond Reserve, which poses safety risks for both players and the public.

“Our main focus is really around player and participant safety and safety of the general public around the reserve,” he said. “In the early period of starting we were allocated a facility at A W Bond Reserve in Altona.

“The facility itself is quite basic and the club has really significantly outgrown some of the

aspects of the facility.”

Working with all levels of government, Mr Halloum said the club has also been working alongside Football Victoria for the last four years on this project.

“We said this is what the club is looking like, theseareourplans,andIthinkthatthegrowth in the last couple of years has also been an important factor,” he said.

“Over the years the club has had to put its own funding into some minor works with the support of the council and Football Victoria.

“These were basic things like equipment storage and somewhere to have a basic small meeting space.”

Mr Halloum said the club is currently working with the state government and Hobsons Bay council to work through the

details of the funding.

“The fencing is one the priorities we have been highlighting and campaigning for,” said Mr Halloum.

“Thereisaplaygroundatonesideofthegoals where we have had a few near misses.

“There is also a road next to it, so sometimes youdogetstrayballseithergoingontotheroad or getting very close to the road.”

Whether it be fencing or netting, Mr Halloum is glad to know the players and participants will be kept safe.

“We are really grateful, but we see this as the start of the journey,” he said. “We really want to upgrade the club’s infrastructure to support the growth of the club.

“And make it an inviting and safe place for the participants and also for the community.”

Following the completion of the survey, Mr Spaaij said the survey results will be published in a report to assess the findings.

“This will provide us with the final knowledge to decide which resources we want to develop and what they look like,” said Mr Spaaij.

“Thesefindingswillhelpusidentifysupport organisations to alert the government about what is not working well and identify some ways in which they can start doing things differently.”

Details: https://monash.az1.qualtrics.com/ jfe/form/SV_cD4AEjHf169FZ8G

It was a lucky week in Maribyrnong, with two locals winning a total of $10 million in the same TattsLotto draw on Saturday, May 11.

One Braybrook mum and a young Maribyrnong man both won $5 million each from the total prize pool.

Admitting it would be hard to top Mother’s Day next year, the Braybrook woman said she and her husband would retire and enjoy life to the fullest.

“I haven’t slept all night. It’s just life changing. I can’t believe it. It’s so surreal,” she told TattsLotto officials.

“It just sets us up for the future to live comfortably, go on holidays, give the kids a bit of money, pay off the bills and pay off the mortgage.”

The other lucky winner was a young Maribyrnong man in his 20s, who is also marvelling at the series of random events that led him to hold a winning ticket.

The winning entry was not registered to a player card, which meant officials from The Lott had no way of contacting the ticket holder.

“I’m still in shock. I can’t believe it. I’ve had no sleep at all,” he said.

“I’d totally forgotten about this ticket. I had bought it last week and I was at work yesterday and I realised I hadn’t checked it.”

The pair held two of the four division one winning entries in the draw, with each division one winning entry scoring $5 million.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

WANT YOUR EVENT LISTED? Community Calendar is made available free of charge to not-for-profit organisations to keep the public informed of special events and activities. Send item details to Star Weekly Community Calendar, Corner Thomsons Road and Keilor Park Drive, Keilor Park, 3042, or email to westeditorial@starweekly.com.au by 9am Wednesday the week prior to publication

Heritage walks

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

■ John, 0418 377 336

Woodcarving workshop

The woodcarving workshop meets on Tuesdays at 9.30am-noon, at Hobsons Bay Men’s Shed, 280 Queens Street, Altona. All levels of ability in this ancient, international craft are welcome, women included, starter tools and timber available.

■ jah2802rot@gmail.com

Women Talk Conversational English

The Women Talk Group will be held on Mondays at 10am for women to learn and practice speaking English in the classroom and the local area and make new friends in an all-women class.

■ 9391 8504 or outlets@outletsco-op.com.au

Hobsons Bay City Band

Do you play any percussion, brass or woodwind instruments? The Hobsons Bay City Band is seeking musicians to join their community band. Rehearsals are held under the directorship of Wayne Bowden every Monday evening, from 7.30pm, at the Newport Bowls Club, 4 Market Street, Newport.

■ hbcityband@gmail.com or www.hbcb.org.au

Junior surf boat rowing

Wanting to hit the water and try rowing surf boats? The Williamstown Lifesaving Club is hosting come and try days for junior surf boats. Come and try this unique experience for juniors.

■ info@williamstownslsc.org.au

Boxing

Maribyrnong Boxing Club has reopened. New and former members of the Maribyrnong Community Youth Club are welcome to attend training sessions on Monday, 6pm-8pm, Thursday, 6.45-7.45pm, and Sunday, 10-11am. Boxing for fitness classes, beginners, youth, adults and also competition available. The club premises are located under the grandstand on Maribyrnong Reserve, on the corner of Hor tense Street and Middle Road, Maribyrnong

■ nugara.david@hotmail.com or 0413 495 836

Meditation for stress management

Meditate under the guidance of an experienced teacher through visualisation, breath and movement. A form of mindful planning combining the psychological process of visualising, preparing for the future, and assigning action steps. Held at the Braybrook Community Hub between 10-11am on Fridays. This class will also be live streamed for you to join from home. Cost is $60 per a 10-week term or $6 per session.

Book sale

Friends of Altona Library hold a monthly book sale on the first Tuesday, Friday and Saturday of each month at the rear of Altona Library, 123 Queen Street, Altona. access via Coles car park, from 10am-1pm. ■ https://libraries.hobsonsbay.

Altona Girl Guides

Altona Girl Guides currently have vacancies for girls aged five-plus who would like to

learn new skills, gain confidence, and expand their friendship circle while having fun.

■ Girl Guides Victoria, 8606 3500 or www.guidesvic.org.au

Small steps walking group

Are you looking for a fun and social way to stay active? Join the Braybrook Community Hub walking group. Get some fresh air, make new friends and enjoy the benefits of walking. Or join for social connections, bikkies and a cuppa every Wednesday between 10.30-11.30am.

Computers, crafts, conversation

Whatever your learning interests and needs, Outlets Newport Community Education Centre has hands-on, face-to-face classes for you or a friend. Contact the centre today to find something for you.

■ 9391 8504, or outlets@outletsco-op.com.au

Carers’ walk and talk

A collaboration between the state government, Interchange Outer East and Brotherhood of St Laurence (BSL), the Pathways for Carers program is launching a monthly walk in Footscray on the third Thursday of each month. The goal of each group is to provide carers with peer-based support, information, services and resources, opportunities to be active and connect with other carers, connect with nature and connect with their local

natural beauty and birdlife that is to be found throughout Hobsons Bay together. Anyone is welcome to join the group on Mondays, 10am, at Altona Beach, Wednesdays, 10am, at Altona Meadows (Jolly Miller Café) or on Fridays, 10am, at Newport Lakes.

■ Ian Watson, 0411 566 862 or https://ow.ly/TQ3j50PP1Ap

Computer classes for beginners

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Cole Trikojus at Hanging Rock in the Macedon Ranges.

community.

■ lauren.mcalpine@bsl.org.au or www.pathwaysforcarers.com.au

Seeking stories

Award-winning local author Dr Dominique

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

■ NPLbook22@gmail.com

Williamstown book sale

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

■ libraries.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au

Walking group

The Altona Meadows and Newport Heart Foundation Walking Group is a local community of men and women committed to walking and socialising together with a post-walk coffee and chat and enjoying the

Computer classes are run Every day of the week. Choice of morning or afternoons. At Altona North and Williamstown.

■ Lynne, 9397 6168

Altona North Combined Probus

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

■ Lesley, 0414 481 442

Friendship group

Altona Day Voice Interest and Education of Women [VIEW] Club meets at 11am on the third Wednesday of the month at Altona RSL.

■ Janet, 9394 6522 or 0412 010 176

Diabetes support group

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

■ Elaine, 0415 030 996

AeroSpeakers Toastmasters Club

Would you like to develop confidence in communicating, competence with language and clarity in writing? AeroSpeakers Toastmasters Club would like to invite any and all residents to join them on the first and third Thursday of every month to help develop public speaking, communication and leadership skills. The group meets at the Laverton Community Hub, 95-105 Railway Avenue, Laverton, from 7-9.30pm.

■ Vimi Gaoneadry, 0411 530 944

West Footscray Rotary

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

■ Mike, 0417 622 372

Cherry Lake Market

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

Point Gellibrand Rotary Club

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

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

Altona Day View Club

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

(Tom Trikojus)

PUZZLES

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

ACROSS

1 Possibility (6)

4 Oblation (8)

9 Fierce animals (5)

10 Originating city of The Beatles (9)

11 Australian rugby league player and former Senator, – Lazarus (5)

12 Grant (9)

13 Diplomatic representative sent on a mission (8)

15 Smear (6)

16 Nakedness (6)

18 Positions in a hierarchy or scale (8)

23 One half of Oxbridge (9)

24 ‘Not on your – !’ (5)

26 Point above focus of an earthquake (9)

27 Dwelling (5)

28 Number in fluid mechanics, symbol Re (8)

29 Hurries (6)

DOWN

1 Toiletry (7)

2 Sun-dried brick (5)

3 Gambling buildings (7)

5 Act of kindness (6)

6 Made of fired clay (7)

7 Quarantine (9)

8 Theatrical partners – and Sullivan (7)

10 Vital organ (5)

14 Insurance; immunity (9)

16 Atomic (7)

17 Sink (7)

19 Skyfall theme singer (5)

20 Relatedness (7)

21 Reserve (7)

22 Revised and corrected (6)

25 Cad (coll) (5)

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 nouns ending in “s”.

3

1 What is the capital of Hungary?

In which country is the beer Stella Artois brewed?

Where in Australia would you find the Nan Tien Temple?

Hayley Williams (pictured) is the lead vocalist of which American alt-rock group?

5 What does IMF stand for?

6 How many moons does Mercury have?

7 Which singer’s real name is James Newell Osterberg Jr?

8 What was the name of the first bank to open in Australia?

9 Who directed the movie Fight Club (1999)? 10 What is diegesis?

No. 186

No. 186

SPORTS QUIZ

1. Which team defeated Melbourne City 1-0 to win the 2024 A-League Women grand final?

2. What year did the Gold Coast Suns play their first match in the AFL?

3. Australian basketballer Bec Allen plays for which Arizona-based WNBA team?

4. Australian boxer Jason Moloney previously held the WBO world title in which weight division?

5. Rugby league broadcaster Phil Gould is General Manager of Football for which NRL club?

6. How many teams compete in the Professional Women’s Hockey League?

Which racing driver's first F1 win was the 2024 Miami Grand Prix?

Which A-League Men team defeated Lebanese team Al-Ahed 1-0 to win the 2024 AFC Cup final?

How many games did the New Orleans Pelicans win in their 2024 NBA playoffs series versus the Oklahoma City Thunder?

Gumbo the Dog is a costumed mascot for which NFL team?

Which grand slam tennis champion is set to retire at the end of the year after a run of injuries?

Which two AFL clubs changed their names for the annual Sir Doug Nicholls Indigenous Round?

13. Denver Nuggets NBA player Jamal Murray was fined how much money for throwing objects onto the court during live play?

14. In which year was the Melbourne Cup handicap horse race first run?

15. Which Australian Test cricketer was left out of Australia’s T20 World Cup squad?

16. Which team has won more State of Origin matches overall: New South Wales or Queensland?

17. Wrigley Field is the home stadium of which Major League Baseball team?

18. By what margin did St Kilda win their only premiership in 1966 against Collingwood?

19. Which major sporting event will be held in Canada, Mexico and the US in 2026?

20. Which West Indian cricket superstar has scored 22 centuries in the Twenty20 format?

21. Travis Boak was captain of Port Adelaide for which five year period?

22. Which athlete was the first pick in the 2024 WNBA draft by Indiana Fever?

23. What type of event was NFL veteran Tom Brady recently the subject of on Netlix?

24. Gold Coast star Matt Rowell went viral in 2023 for eating what during a pre-season ritual?

25. Erin Molan was a host on which show from 2014–2018?

26. The Japanese mens national rugby union team is known by what nickname?

27. Which NBA player had a cameo appearance in the 1980 film Airplane!?

28. In which sport is Magnus Carlsen a five-time world champion?

29. At which NRL club did Ivan Cleary retire as a player, before returning as a coach?

30. Which Australian athlete debuted for both the national cricket team and soccer team at age 16?

RATINGS

Looks: 8/10

Performance: 9/10

Safety: 7/10

Thirst: 7/10

Practicality: 8/10

Comfort: 8/10

Tech: 8/10

Value: 6/10

In a word, impressive

By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring

Could it be that auto giant Audi has grasped the Holy Grail of the industry with its most popular vehicle, the Q5?

The most desirable, yet elusive, automotive properties claimed by the Q5 plug-in petrol/ electric hybrid – outstanding performance coupled with miserly fuel consumption – stand as the chalice of Arthurian legend.

The new Q5 55 TFSI e quattro S line showcases the manufacturer’s expertise in electrification and highly efficient internal combustion engine technology with a claimed sprint from zero to 100km/h in a sizzling 5.3 seconds, while, on average, sipping a mere 2 litres of fuel per 100km.

The upgraded vehicle comes to market in a choice of SUV or Sportback styling, starting from $102,900 and $110,200, respectively, without on-road costs. Metallic paint adds $1990 to the price; 20-inch Audi Sport alloy wheels are a no-cost option. On test was the latter at $112,190.

Like all new Audis in Australia the Q5 55 TFSI e is covered by the maker’s five-year unlimited kilometre and 12-year body corrosionwarranties.Thebatteryisguaranteed for eight years.

Styling

The Q5 PHEV takes on the robust character of the standard Q5, which is enhanced by the inclusion of the S line features including S front and rear bumpers and grille, plus tailgate spoiler.

The Sportback is upgraded from the SUV by headlamps with LED Matrix lights, with washers,anddynamicfrontandrearindicators. Twenty-inch Audi Sport alloy wheels have a part polished finish which goes to showing off red painted brake callipers.

Optional roof rails on Sportback feature electronic stability control detection, which adjusts ESC when heavy loads are carried on the roof altering the vehicle’s centre of gravity.

Interior

Welcominguptofiveoccupants,Nappaleather wrapped seating, with diamond stitching, up front is power adjustable, heated and with four-way lumbar support. The driver’s side boasts memory function.

Sliding rear seats have 40:20:40 separation and the three-zone climate control air-con has its own display back there. The mood can be subtly altered with one of 30 shades of ambient lighting.

With seat backs in place there is 460 litres of boot space, extending to 1400 litres with the backs folded. The 14.4kWh battery is stored under the luggage compartment.

Infotainment

Accessed by a 10.1-inch dash-mounted touchscreen, the Audi MMI interface puts a mass of information, including navigation, at the driver’s fingertips. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard.

Digital radio DAB+ is played through a 180W sound system with 10 speakers and sub-woofer. Wireless mobile phone charging also is standard in addition to two USB outlets front and back.

Engines/transmissions

A 2.0 litre TFSI turbo engine works with an electric motor to put out a combined 270 kW and 500 Nm, which is fed to the road through a seven-speed dual clutch automatic transmission and Audi quattro all-wheel drive.

A 14.4 kWh lithium-ion battery, located under the rear cargo area, can be fuelled up to 7.2 kW AC for a full charge in around two-and-a-half hours.

The vehicle is supplied with all charging gear, including 240V three-pin standard plug, 230V 32 Amp industrial plug and wall bracket mount, plus a Type 2 cable for use at public charging stations.

Safety

The new Q5 55 TFSI e quattro S line showcases the manufacturer’s expertise in electrification and highly efficient internal combustion engine technology. (Pictures: Supplied)

ANCAP rating, which ran out in January –not that safety is now second class. Passive features include eight airbags – dual front, dual front-side, dual curtain and dual rear-side.

Active safety includes autonomous emergency braking (up to 85 km/h) with pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring (side assist), collision avoidance assist, exit warning, automatic high-beam, hill descent control,lane-keepassist,rearcross-trafficalert, tyre pressure monitoring, turn and swerve assist, predictive efficiency assistant, driver attention monitoring, plus rear-view camera and active bonnet.

Parking is given a wider perspective thanks to 360-degree cameras, plus park assist, hold assist and hill descent control.

Driving

UnlikeotherICE/electricmotorhybrids,which generally make all the decisions about power generation, the Q5 55 TFSI e gives the driver a greaterinputintohowthetwosourcescombine by choosing one of four operating modes via the touchscreen.

Hybrid mode operates automatically through the route guidance in the navigation system and can be also selected manually. Here the battery charge is optimally distributed across the route to maintain minimum fuel consumption.

In stop-start traffic the Q5 Sportback e quattrorunsmainlyonbatterypowerbasedon a large amount of data from on-board sensors. On the open road, when the driver releases the accelerator engine management decides whether to coast with the engine off or use power regen to convert into electrical energy. All these functions are switched on and off with the minimum effect on the driving performance – the rare engine note in no way being a negative intrusion to cabin occupants.

A further three modes are at the driver’s fingertips. In EV mode – the default setting whenever the car is started – the car is powered by electricity alone, so long as the driver does not depress the accelerator pedal past a certain variable pressure point. The Sportback can run as far as 53km up to 135km/h on the emission-free electric motor alone.

In Hold mode, battery capacity is held at the current level. In Charge mode, the drive management system increases the energy in the battery using the internal combustion engine. As it does during regeneration, the electric motor charges the drive battery.

Summary

The Audi Q5 Sportback 55 TFSI e quattro S line? In a word, impressive.

Weekend action across the west

StarWeekly photographer Ljubica Vrankovic braved the elements on Sunday to capture some of the sporting action.

Aguak Chok. 407999_01

Werribee Hockey team. 407988_01

Jasmin Day. 407999_06

Mellisa Barnes. 407987_04

Nicholas Di Grazia. 407984_09

Meekness Payne. 407984_05

Werribee celebrate a goal. 407988_22

Melton Phoenix’s Shea Cain. 407992_08

Epping’s Cindy Turnbull kicks goal to level the scores. 407987_15

Melton Phoenix’s Sarah Bender. 407992_04

The next generation of Bulldogs stars on show

Footscray’s next generation is getting their opportunity in the Hockey Victoria women’s premier league this season.

After a number of retirements during the off season, the Bulldogs decided to bring through some players that have come through their pathways.

Bulldogs coach Alex Shirley said it was exciting to see some of the younger players get their opportunity.

“We are developing a lot of young kids,” he said. “We’ve had a fair chance with a lot of the older players retiring.

“Thisyearwe’rereallyfocusingondeveloping some of the juniors that are in the squad while still trying to maintain our competitiveness.

“The results so far have been solid.”

Shirley said that they’d already had six debutants this season which had been really good. He said many had been in their second and third sides in recent years and were keen for the opportunity.

As with all new sides, Shirley knows that it will take some time.

“We’re still learning a lot as a group,” he said. “It’s a real building year this year and it’s about moving the club forward for the future.

“We’re constantly playing with more than half of our players with 10 or less premier league games.

“The team is coming together and becoming more consistent as we go along.”

On Saturday, the Bulldogs faced Mentone in their round six match. Mentone came away with a 1-0 win.

“It was really tough,” Shirley said. “We were really competitive and we had two of our more experienced players out.

“We had an injury to one of our other experienced players as well.”

The Bulldogs have a big week coming up with two matches in the space of four days.

The Bulldogs face Camberwell on Thursday nightbeforeplayingagainstPowerhouseandSt Kilda on Sunday.

Shirley said they would be a couple of good tests for their side and they would have to look to manage their squad with the short term around.

Meanwhile, the Bulldogs men’s premier leaguesidehadatoughweekwithback-to-back losses.

On Thursday night, the Bulldogs lost to Camberwell, 4-2. Jayden Schram and Oscar Allan were the goal scorers for the Bulldogs.

On Saturday, the Bulldogs lost to Toorak East Malvern 1-0.

The Bulldogs sit in ninth spot. Altona continued its good start to the men’s premierleagueseasoncontinuedwithabigwin against Essendon on Saturday. The Seagulls claimed the win 8-2 with six different goal scorers. Tara Murray

Three in a row for Pies

By Tara Murray

Laverton overcame some challenges to come away with a strong win against Sunshine Heights in the Western Football League division 2 competition.

After a slow start to the season, the Magpies entered Saturday’s match on the back of two wins in a row.

A few more injuries did little to halt the Magpies as a strong start led to a 14.11 (95)-11.8 (74) win.

Magpies coach Tony Jofre said it had been a really good day for the club.

“It’s been a good start to the season,” he said. “It was a good performance as we were down a few players before the game, we had three or four major outs.

“It was a great day, it was our major sponsor round, TIV Round, and there were lots of kids and families out watching.”

It was the start that was the key for the Magpies in the win. Eight goals to two gave the side a 38 point lead at the first break.

Jofre said outside of playing against North Sunshine, they hadn’t been able to kick that many goals in a quarter in a very long time.

“It got competitive in the second half and it became a really good game,” he said. We had some injuries and were down on rotations but we’re pretty happy.”

Alex Grigg kicked four goals for the Magpies, while Joshua Cole had three goals.

Jofre said Christopher Sivanesan was best on ground, while Antony Pasqua, Shaun Evans and Grigg were the other standouts in a strong team performance.

The win was the Magpies third of the season. Last season they had four in total.

Jofre said things were coming along nicely.

“The team is gelling and we have a group of players that are still developing,” he said.

“The boys are starting to gel and playing how they are training.”

The Magpies now sit seventh on the ladder.

The Magpies now have a challenge on their hands if they’re to take their winning streak to four as they face Sunshine this Saturday.

The Kangaroos, who had a bye on the weekend, have been one of the two standout teams so far.

Jofre said they were hopeful those who finished the game on the bench on the weekend would be fit for the game.

“This will be a test of character to stay positive,” he said. “We know what sort of category they are in.”

In other matches, West Footscray had a massive win against North Sunshine, winning 32.21 (213)-1.7 (13).

Thomas Stelluto kicked 10 goals in the win, while Jaycob Doyle was named their best.

North Footscray got an important win against Albanvale, winning 13.17 (95)-10.6 (66).

Newport bounced back after its first loss, beating Tarneit, 32.22 (214)-1.4 (10), while Braybrook lost to Wyndhamvale, 16.13 (109)-10.5 (65).

In division 1, Parkside beat Point Cook Centrals while Altona and Spotswood both suffered losses.

Sports shorts

VTCA

Yarraville Club has announced the re-signing of Ash Sweet for the Victorian Turf Cricket Association senior division. Sweet had considered retirement, but has decided to play on but will focus mostly on the two-day games with work and family commitments.

Big V

Altona Gators’ tough run continued in the Big V women’s division 1-2 competition on Sunday. Facing the Western Port Steelers, the Gators won the first two quarters, before the Steelers won both quarters in the second half to come away with a 67-62 win. Tyla Paraha top scored with 21 points for the Gators. The Gators now sit in fifth spot with seven wins and four losses.

Big V

Altona Gators’ men came away with the points in both their clashes in the Big V men’s division 1 competition on the weekend. On Saturday night, the Gators beat the Warrandyte Venom, 89-81 in overtime. The Gators trailed at half time before outscoring the Venom by eight points in the second half to force overtime, where it was all the Gators. Brian Adams top scored with 22 points. On Sunday, the Gators started slowly against the Chelsea Gulls. They built into the game and finished strongly with a 30-7 final quarter to get the 109-90 win. The Gators now sit fourth.

NPL

Altona Magic had to settle for a draw against Heidelberg United on Sunday in the National Premier League competition. The Magic led 1-0 at half time after Bul Juach found the back of the net. Heidelberg was able to find an equaliser in the second half to share the points in a 1-1 draw. The Magic sit seventh on the ladder. In the Victorian Premier League 2 competition, Altona City drew with Brunswick Juventus 1-1.

FV

Altona East Phoenix has mutually parted ways with Craig Filer. The FV state league 2 north-west side announced the decision following the club’s shock loss to Craigieburn City on Friday night. Filer took on the head coaching role this season. Paul Donnelly has taken on interim coaching role.

FOR MORE SPORT, VISIT

Web: starweekly.com.au

Maribyrnong & Hobsons Bay Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Laverton celebrate a third straight win. (Supplied)

Eagles are embracing the challenge

Yarraville Seddon is finding its rhythm in the Western Football League women’s competition.

In their first season under new coach Emily Fox, the Eagles have started with three wins and two losses.

Fox said she and the side were still finding where they fit in the competition.

“It’s been a fun season and we’re four weeks in now, we’re finding our rhythm,” she said.

“It’shardtotell[wherewesit]afterjustfour games, especially as the whole competition is now in one division.

“We are finding what we want to do and establishing ourselves. The club wants to play the game in the right spirit and the results will come over time.”

Fox, who has a wealth of experience including at Victorian Football League Women’s level, said it had been an amazing experience so far.

She said she had some really good support from her coaching group.

“We’ve got a new way of playing footy that

some of the girls haven’t seen,” she said.

“Talking to the team we feel like we’re all on the same page and I get the impression they are loving their time.”

As well as having some good results, the Eagles are starting to become a destination club.

In the off season, they signed two former AFLW players.

Ashleigh Guest, while Phoebe McWilliams made her debut against Caroline Springs.

Fox previously spoke about the signing of Guest and said McWilliams, who played 55 AFLW games at three clubs was a quality person and a great footballer.

“We know women’s footy is going from strength to strength and we were looking out to give the opportunity to former AFLW players to continue playing,” Fox said.

“They’re welcome at a club like ours. Phoebe and I played at the St Kilda Sharks many years ago.

“We put out a call out to the wider community that we wanted to support

and offer opportunities for retiring AFLW players.

“There were a lot of players on the list, Ash and Phoebe were near the top.”

Fox said with what they’re doing on and off field, that they were heading in the right direction.

The Eagles faced Wyndhamvale on Saturday.

Fox said before the game she didn’t know much about the opposition.

She said they wanted to continue the precedent they had set of everyone leaving their ground feeling like they’ve had a good time.

The Eagles were able to put another win on the board, beating the Falcons, 11.8 (74)-1.1 (7).

Gabby Menabue and Layna Porter were named their best.

Parkside, Laverton and the Suns were the other winners.

Strong win for Seagulls

By Tara Murray

Williamstown put together its most even performance so far in the Victorian Football League Women’s competition against Carlton on Saturday.

The Seagulls were able to put together a strong four quarter performance to come away with the win against the Blues, 9.6 (60)-5.2 (32).

Seagulls coach Liam Cavanagh said it was a match that the playing group had been looking forward to.

“It’s the first time we’ve played them since the elimination final [which Carlton won], so we had a bit of a chip on our shoulder which was good,” he said.

“We come to play and we set the tone how we wanted to play. Carlton was strong but we were able to open them up for longer periods.”

Cavanagh said they had better ball movement as well this week and that any time you put 60 points on the board you’re doing a lot of things right in attack.

He was also pleased with how the group responded when Carlton had some periods of

momentum.

“When Carlton was going, our tackle numbers soared,” he said. “It’s not perfect but we’re seeing the moments when the opposition has momentum are getting smaller and smaller and we’re getting better at capitalising.”

Cavanagh said this season they’ve had some good that have been won by their defence and others by attack.

He said they were getting closer to having the right balance between the two.

Molly Simpson kicked three goals for the Seagulls, while Sharnie Whiting and Eliza Straford kicked two goals each.

Cavanagh said that Gabby Biedenweg-Webster was best on ground in her best performance for the club.

He said Megan Williamstown had 13 disposals and 13 tackles and showed that balancetheywantbetweenattackanddefence.

Stratford and the other small forwards had really strong games.

“It’s the best we’ve looked going inside our 50,” Cavanagh said. “There’s been a strong emphasis on high percentage areas to score

Giddey, Vasiljevic in Boomers mix

Three western suburbs natives, Josh Giddey, Dante Exum and DJ Vasiljevic are still in the mix for the Australian Boomers team for the Olympics.

Basketball Australia announced a revised 17-player Boomers squad that will attend the training camp in preparationfortheParis2024Olympics.

Amixoffamiliarfacesandanexciting wave of young talent will report to camp in late June and head coach Brian Goorjianisemphasisingtheimportance of getting the vibe right.

“The standard of the tournament is going to be at an all-time high and we’re excited with the group that we’ve put together,” he said.

“It’s a special group and an exciting time for basketball and the country. We will get the guys together and get the energy right.”

Bronze medal heroes Patty Mills, Joe Ingles, Matthew Dellavedova, Nick Kay and Chris Goulding are in the revised squad and will have the opportunity to contribute to a new-look Boomers set.

Also named are the next wave, Oklahoma City Thunder star Josh Giddey and Dallas Mavericks’ Dante Exum and Josh Green.

Giddey grew up in Yarraville and Exum in Seabrook.

and not dirty goals.”

The win has the Seagulls move up to second spot, only percentage behind the Box Hill Hawks.

Cavanagh said it was another step forward.

“We don’t think we are where we need to be,” he said. “We’re better than last week and that was better than the week before.”

The Seagulls this week face Geelong which sits 12th on the ladder.

In the VFL, the Seagulls claimed victory after the siren against the Blues.

The Seagulls jumped out of the blocks and had a 24 point lead at half time time. The margin grew to 31 points at the last break.

The Blues came home hard in the final quarter kicking six goals to take the front as the clock ticked over 30 minutes.

Intheend,thematchcamedowntoSeagulls ruck Tom Downie with a shot after the siren.

He was able to convert to give the Seagulls a 13.10 (88)-.12.11 (83) win.

Jovan Petric and Brodie McLaughlin kicked three goals each for the Seagulls.

Vasiljevic, who grew up in Wyndham, is one of six National Basketball League players named in the squad.

“The level of talent that the country is producing is at a new level,” Goorjian said

“We’ve got guys competing against the best in leagues around the world and the NBL continues to advance as a world class level for Australian talent,” said Goorjian.

“We won’t over-complicate things here. We’ve got an exciting group of players that all present unique strengths andadvantages.Ourgoalistomaximise that.”

The Boomers kick off their run with allplayersreportingtocampinlateJune before the first hit out in the against China from July 2-5.

From there, the final 12 will be selected and travel to Abu Dhabi for the USA Basketball Showcase with games against the USA on July 15 and Serbia on July 16.

Exum,

Emily Fox (Supplied)

Tara Murray

Molly Simpson kicked three goals on Saturday. (Ljubica Vrankovic)

Strong start for Williamstown in state league 3

Williamstown’s winning streak ended at three in the FV state league 3 north-west competition.

After starting the season with a run of draws, Williamstown then won three in a row to get its season back on track.

On Friday night, Williamstown had to fight hard against Epping City for a 1-1 draw. Benji Mangar was the goal scorer for Williamstown.

Speaking before the match, general manager Jason Drozdek said they were happy with how the season was tracking.

“It’s going really well,” he said. “It was a bit of a slow start but we’ve started to pick up the last couple of weeks.

“Three wins in a row after four draws we have turned it around the last couple of weeks. The confidence is growing.”

Drozdek said they’ve had chances in every match to come away with the win, but have made silly mistakes which have resulted in opposition goals.

While happy they haven’t lost a match yet, he knows there’s still a long way to go.

Williamstown sits in fourth spot after eight rounds, on the same amount of points as second and third.

“We’re quite ambitious and we want to go up a division or two,” he said. “We were third last year and it will be good to go at least one spot better.

“We’ve been tracking along OK. There’s still improvement in terms of performances and the boys are working hard to lift their levels and keep on improving.”

While things are taking some time on field, things are flying for the club this season in all other avenues.

“Last year we grew by 10 to 15 perc cent and this year we’ve grown 20 per cent again,” Drozdek said.

“We’ve been surprised a little bit with the growth and it’s great but it does possess

Falcons battle through

By Tara Murray

The City West Falcons were pushed early beforecomingawaywithastrongwinagainst the North East Blaze in the Victorian Netball League championship on Sunday.

After having a bye midweek, the Falcons were at home at Altona on Sunday as part of the Super Sunday round.

Both sitting at the top part of the ladder, the match was also going to be an interesting one.

After a close first half, the Falcons ran away with a 67-48 win to continue their winning streak dating back to round two.

Falcons coach Marg Lind said it was quite a physical game.

“It was very one on one,” she said. “It took a couple of quarters to get our defensive strategy right.

“Once we sorted that out we were able to run away with it. They had variety with what they can put out there and they pushed us for a fair bit.

“The first half is the most we’ve been pushed for a while.”

The Falcons had to make some changes to their normal line up, with Montana Holmes called in the Melbourne Mavericks Suncorp Super Netball squad.

Holmes normally plays big minutes in centre for the Falcons.

It meant more court time for birthday girl Soli Ropati.

“Soli played the whole game in centre,” Lind said. “It was a last minute thing.

“We took more players than we would normally this season with three players being Mavericks training partners, which means some don’t get as many minutes as they would like.

“Soli got some extra game time and she would have enjoyed it.”

Lind said they were hoping that Holmes would be released for their Wednesday night game, having not stepped onto the court for the Mavericks.

Jane Cook shot 47 goals in a solid performance against some heavy contested defence.

Lind was happy with how Mel Oloamanu and Sophie Hanarahan adjusted in defence.

“Mel had a quiet start and then we had a positional switch without sacrificing her at goal defence,” she said.

“Once we did that Sophie was able to confuse the space and Mel went out hunting. We now have to make sure we’re not waiting until being instructed to change.

“They need to communicate a little bit better. They’re still a new combination.”

The win cements the Falcons spot in

second, now a game clear of the Blaze which has played one extra game.

In the under-23s match, the Falcons lost 52-42 to the Blaze.

Lind said they lost each quarter by a couple of goals.

“We would make a couple of errors and they would capitalise at the other end.”

some challenges.

“Five to six years ago we didn’t have a women’s side and now we have two. We have one in state league 3 and state league 5 and they’ve only had one loss.

“Things are bright with growth in the younger side. It’s what you want.”

In other state league 3 matches, Laverton’s match with the Western Eagles was called off due to a serious injury to a Laverton player.

The score was 2-1 in favour of Laverton at the time.

Meanwhile, Altona North beat Bundoora United, 1-0.

In state league 1 north-west, Yarraville Glory beat Strathmore, 1-0, while in state league 2 north-west, Altona East Phoenix beat Craigieburn City, 2-0.

Tara Murray

Williamstown CYMS is finally on the boardintheVictorianAmateurFootball Association premier B competition.

After a tough start to the season, the CYs were able to put it together against Beaumaris on Saturday.

The CYs were slow out of the blocks and trailed by 17 points at quarter time. Seven goals to one in the second quarter turned the deficit into a 22 point lead at quarter time.

The CYs managed to hold onto a 10 point lead heading into the final break.

TheCYssavedtheirbestforlasttorun away with an 18.11 (119)-10.10 (70).

Archi Manton kicked seven goals in a best on ground performance. Liam Conway and Jordan Busuttil also had strong games.

The win moves the CYs off the bottom of the ladder. This week the CYs face Old Ivanhoe.

Inthewomen’spremierBcompetition, the CYs kept their winning streak going in a low scoring affair.

Neither team scored a goal in the first quarter with the CYs leading by two points at half time.

The margin increased to nine points at three quarter time. Neither side was abletoscoreinthefinalquarterwiththe CYs winning, 2.7 (19)-1.4 (10).

Alessia Acquaro and Emily Gardner were named the CYs best.

The CYs, who sit on top of the ladder, face the Aquinas this Saturday.

The under-23s did have a win midweek against the Gippsland Stars.

The Falcons sit in fourth spot.

This week the two Falcons sides face the Hawks, who are in the top four in both competitions.

“They have improved, but we’ve also improved,” said Lind.

Liam Conway. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 405183_14

Williamstown continues to build. (Joe Mastroianni). 271085_07

Soli Ropati (Robbab Photography)