Star Weekly - Wyndham - 29th May 2024

Diana wants to say thanks

A random act of kindness has set a Werribee octogenarian on a quest to find the two good samaritans who helped her out at a service station on Railway Drive last week.

On Thursday May 16, Diana Cole was filling her car at the service station, when the emphysema sufferer felt unwell and short of breath.

Two kind ladies, whom Diana believes were garbage contractors, helped fill her car with petrol and then, unbeknown to Diana, paid the bill as well.

Diana would like to thank the ladies for their kindness.

“I am sick to death of people running Werribee down. There’s a lot of lovely people here,” she said.

For the full story turn to page 4.

Cricketers bowl petition

By Cade Lucas

Likemuchoftherestofthecountry,Wyndham has plenty of cricket facilities. Also like much oftherestofthecountry,thosecricketfacilities become football facilities over winter.

But a group of South Asian cricketers from countries such as India, Pakistan and Bangladesh, are for campaigning for more of Wyndham’s cricket grounds to be made available so they can play their beloved sport all year round.

The group has launched a petition calling on Wyndhamcounciltoprovidemorefacilitiesfor winter cricket, arguing that booking grounds to play on during football season is becoming increasingly difficult.

“The availability of grounds has been lessened because they’re pre-booked for

football and other sports,” said spokesperson and winter cricketer, Aijaz Moinuddin.

“Interest in cricket is growing in Wyndham as the majority of new arrivals are from the sub-continent and the lack of facilities is demoralising for people who can’t play cricket anymore.”

While understanding that established winter sports like football soccer had to be accommodated, Mr Moinuddin said the group were frustrated at the low priority given to winter cricket by Wyndham council.

“The responses that we’ve seen from council giveusnohopeoftheirbeingenoughfacilities to play cricket in winter,” he said, adding that governing bodies like Cricket Victoria and Cricket Australia had shown little interest either.

Since launching the petition the situation

has begun to change, with Mr Moinuddin and hisfellowwintercricketerssecuringameeting with Wyndham mayor Jennie Barrera on June 4, where the petition and its signatures and demands will be presented.

The petition argues the lack of cricket grounds over winter has resulted in limited opportunities for physical exercise, leading to health issues; residents being forced to travel long distances to other locations/councils; increased stress and anxiety’ and decreased social interaction among cricketers.

The petition demands winter cricket facilities be provided at any of a range of venues, including Arndell Park Reserve, Truganina, Glen Orden Reserve, Werribee and Hummingbird Boulevard Reserve, Tarneit,

The also want more synthetic pitches to

be installed and suitable grounds be made available all year round.

Responding ahead of receiving the petition next month, Wyndham council said it works with all sporting bodies to provide access to facilities and would continue to do so.

“Unfortunately, demand continues to outweigh capacity, with several teams unfortunately unable to be accommodated each year,” said a council spokesperson.

Cricket Victoria community and premier cricket general manager Liam Murphy said the organisation was aware of the issue and was hopeful of soon having a solution.

“We have growing community interest in winter cricket and we’re currently working through several pilot programs that can support participation in our game over the cooler months.”

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Werribee resident Diana Cole. (Damjan Janevski) 408932_02

Victoria University staff protest for ‘fair pay’

This week Victoria University (VU) staff launched a protest rally targeting university management over what they’ve described as a lack of a fair pay rise.

A petition expressing staff, student and alumni “outrage about Gaza” was also cited as driving the protest.

National Tertiary Education Union (NTEU) members rallied outside a university council meeting chaired by VU chancellor Steve Bracks at the university’s Footscray campus from 8-9am on Tuesday, May 28. NTEU said despite the university receiving the union’s claims more than a year ago, VU management has failed to make a “concrete offer” on pay and working conditions.

NTEU said unmanageable workloads are a major sticking point, with VU’s teaching model and recent job cuts that resulted in almost 20 per cent of staff leaving putting enormous pressure on staff.

VU’s “block model” teaches students one semester-length subject in four weeks blocks rather than multiple units concurrently, comparedtothemajorityofotheruniversity’s in Australia.

NTEU VU branch president Brandy Cochrane said Mr Bracks must bring senior management into line and ensure the university’s top decision makers “get serious about a real pay offer”.

“Enough is enough,” Mr Cochrane said.

“Staff have endured hundreds of colleagues leaving, an unsafe teaching model and a cost-of-living crisis, yet management clearly thinks they don’t deserve to be paid fairly.

“Instead of trying to resolve the issues, management is playing for time and not sending anyone with real decision-making power to talk about staff’s reasonable claims.“

A Victoria University spokesperson said the university is committed to modernising the current agreement and it is negotiating with employee representatives in “good faith“ to achieve a further competitive salary increase and new leave entitlements for staff.

“InMarchstaffweregivena4percentsalary increase in recognition of their contribution

Service change concern

By Cade Lucas

Eighty-two-year-old David Townend suffers from a muscle wasting disease that has left him wheelchair bound.

Despite this, the elderly Werribee resident doesn’tregarditasthebiggesthealthchallenge he faces.

Rather, it’s the looming end of weekly social activities due to Wyndham council’s decision to stop providing aged care services, that has him most concerned for his wellbeing.

“Talk about health problems, well the council are creating the problem by taking this away from us,” he said.

“Most of the group (members) only get out on the Wednesday and Thursday, it’s like an extended family.”

Like many elderly Wyndham residents, Mr Townend has been attending council-run social gatherings, Vintage and Planned Activity Group, for the past eight years.

But with Wyndham council recently responding to the federal government’s aged care reforms by announcing it would transfer its services to a mixture of private and non-for-profit providers, Mr Townend is concerned existing social groups will be broken-up and friendships and a sense of community lost.

“We’re told that if we have a home care package they may start up groups but we’re all with different servers so we won’t be together, which is defeating the purpose,” he said, adding that council didn’t survey or consult withsocialgroupsaheadoftheannouncement and that many members feel let down.

“Most of us think the council have lost the essence of serving the community, especially the older people. We pay our rates, same as anyone else. There were ladies of our group in tears and even male members close to tears when we were told about this.”

In response, Wyndham council said it

understood that many clients attending group programs wanted to maintain relationships when they move to a new provider, and that it was working with the federal government to ensure this happens.

“This a key priority for both council and the Commonwealth Government and we have an in-principal agreement to enable this whenever possible,” a council spokesperson said.

“The Commonwealth Government is responsible for appointing new providers and early information indicates that new providers will be in place well before the end of the year, to ensure that there will be adequate time for clients to move to a new provider. All current clients will be contacted individually by a council officer once new providers are appointed, and council officers will work closely with clients to ensure that they are supported in their move to a new provider.”

and ongoing commitment to putting our students at the heart of everything we do,“ the spokesperson said, “We are proud of our award-winning teaching model, which has become central to the success of our students.“

NTEU Victorian division secretary Sarah Roberts said staff need a fair pay rise, reasonable workloads and secure jobs.

“Under VU’s model, staff are being forced to work huge hours of unpaid overtime just to get marking and course administration done,“ Ms Roberts said.

Wyndham residents are encouraged to have their say on the naming of a new primary school in Tarneit.

On Thursday, the state government launched an online survey where Victorians can nominate their preferred names for six new public schools due to open next year, including Riverdale North Primary School located near Sewells Road and Leakes Road. While Riverdale North is the interim name of the new school, the state government is seeking the community’s input to help find a permanent name that reflects the unique identity of the surrounding area and inspires local pride. In 2023, the government announced that Aboriginal languagenameswillbepreferredfornew schools to further promote Aboriginal self-determination, language and culture across the state.

Traditional Owner groups have been consulted and have provided the following shortlist of names for Riverdale North: Woodin Primary School, named after the Bunurong word for summer; Booring Primary School after the Bunurong word for bandicoot and Perripe Primary School after the Bunurong word for spring.

“It’ssoimportantforyoungpeopleand families to feel connected to their local schoolandengagedineducation,andI’m so thrilled the community can have their say on these wonderful new names,” Education Minister Ben Carroll said.

“Embracing First Nations languages in more school names will contribute to the ongoing process of reconciliation.”

The public have two weeks to choose their preferred name, with consultation closing on Thursday, June 6. Deatils: engage.vic.gov.au/2025-naming-of-newschools

Practices needed to undertake GP family violence training

The North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network (NWMPHN) is on a mission to protect and support patients experiencing family violence through its innovative program, Primary Care Pathways to Safety. This program equips general practice staff with the necessary tools to provide trauma-informed care to victim-survivors. The program offers tailored training to GPs, practice nurses, practice managers, and reception staff. The aim is to enable them to effectively assist patients disclosing intimate partner violence or other forms of domestic abuse. Support ranges from providing information on local services to alerting emergency organisations for immediate protection.

Developed in collaboration with the

University of Melbourne’s Safer Families Centre of Research Excellence, which developed targeted training protocols, the program began in 2019, with funding provided to 30 practices across Melbourne’s north and west for training and resources. One of the 30 practices is the Deer Park Medical Centre. Practice manager Namarata Malhotra said “Beyond merely identifying

signs of abuse, they (staff) serve as frontline advocates, offering compassionate support, and actively facilitating connections between affected patients and the essential resources and services needed to navigate and overcome such challenging situations.” NWMPHN is now in the process of recruiting another 30 practices to undertake the training.

82 year old David Townend is wheelchair bound with a muscle wasting disease and is concerned about Wyndham council’s proposed changes to aged care services. (Damjan Janevski) 409035_03

Creekstone is not alone

By Cade Lucas

Two weeks after traffic and road issues forced Wyndham council to block any further developments at Tarneit’s Creekstone estate, ]residents have claimed the same problems exist at neighbouring housing estates too.

Earlier this month Wyndham council blocked the release of any further land parcels at Creekstone estate until developer Macson Developments built a signalised intersection and bridge as promised.

Currently the Settlement Road and Dohertys Road intersection is the only way in or out of Creekstone, with residents claiming it has become dangerously congested as a result.

Macson Developments blamed planning delays for the failure to deliver a second entrance and said it was working with council to rectify the problem.

AccordingtoresidentArvindGupta,it’snot an isolated case.

“This is a problem for everyone living in this corner of Tarneit,” said Mr Gupta who lives in Creekstone estate, but used to own properties in nearby Bluestone and Harlow estates as well.

Asked if traffic congestion caused by a lack of road infrastructure had influenced his decision to sell those properties, the IT consultant and father of two was emphatic.

“One hundred per cent.”

“I had one (property) in Bluestone and two in Harlow and because of the poor planning I decided to sell them at a loss,” he said estimating the total to be roughly $80,000.

Mr Gupta said he bought the properties at a premium based on plans the developers of these states failed to deliver.

“There’snoexitfromBluestoneandHarlow

estateandwhenwewereshownthemasterplan there were multiple exists,” he said.

Bluestone estate developer Satterly and Harlow developer SIG Group were contacted for comment.

Mr Gupta’s lives in Fresco Way in Creekstoneestate,neartheborderofOrchard, New Haven and Emerald Park estates.

His next door neighbour Harjinder Sidhu, agreed that the entire area is beset by traffic problems caused by poor planning.

“There’s is no entry to Doherty’s Road from Orchard or Newhaven so all the traffic comes on Tarneit Road,” he said.

“That makes all the traffic come through Emerald and Creekstone and those roads are not meant for heavy traffic.”

A spokesperson for Newhaven developer, Peet, said they were working closely with Wyndham council to deliver the

infrastructure promised to residents.

“We pride ourselves on designing communities with safety and convenience in mind, and will continue to meet these high standards at Newhaven as development progresses.”

The developers of Orchard and Emerald Park estate were contacted for comment.

A spokesperson for Wyndham council said while council had not received any complaints about these neighbouring estates and that none were considered to be in breach of their obligations, it reserved the right to take action if needed.

“Wyndham City acts accordingly and follows the regulatory processes when breaches occur and takes the required action when developers are not honouring their obligations to council and the community.”

Arrests over tobacco fire

Two children, including a boy from Hoppers Crossing, were arrested last week following an investigation into two tobacco store fires in Glenroy.

A 17-year-old Deanside boy was arrested at home Thursday morning and interviewed by police. He was subsequently charged with criminal damage by fire (arson), theft of a motor vehicle and possession of a prohibited weapon.

A 16 year old Hoppers Crossing Boy was arrested on Wednesday as part of an investigation into an unrelated series of incidents. He is currently remanded in custody on those separate matters and police expect to charge him with criminal damage by fire (arson), theft of a motor vehicle, possession of a prohibited weapon and possession of cannabis.

The arrests follow two fires at separate tobacco stores in Glenroy on May 17. Emergency services were initially called to a business on Morgan Court about 4.15am, with a second fire being reported at a Belair Avenue premises only minutes later.

Detective Inspector Graham Banks said this is “yet again” another example of organised crime groups using vulnerable children to commit extremely serious crimes.

One of the boys involved suffered serious burns, which we are consistently seeing occurring and it is only a matter of time before one of these offenders kill themselves, or an innocent member of the public,” he said,

Tarneit housing estate residents Palwinder Cheema, Harjinder Sidhu and Gurjinder Cheema, are concerned about traffic problems in the area. (Damjan Janevski) 407997_02

Hunt for two good samaritans

By Cade Lucas

It was a small gesture that made a big impact.

On Thursday May 16, Werribee’s Diana Cole was filling her car at the Railway Drive service station, when the emphysema sufferer encountered a familiar problem.

“I went to get the pump and put it in my car and I didn’t feel very well because I was out of breath,” said the 82 year old.

“I couldn’t move, I was just breathless.”

While being short of breath is a familiar feeling to anyone with the incurable lung condition, what happened next to isn’t so common.

“These two ladies saw me and said ‘are you alright?’andIsaid‘notreally’,”Dianarecalled.

“And they said ‘do you want us to put petrol in?’ and I said ‘yes’.” Diana had no idea who these two 30-something women were, where they came from or why they’d decided to come to her aid, but as one of them filled her car with $40 worth of fuel, she decided to ask if they could help stop her windscreen smearing too.

“She said ‘go into the shop and buy some stuff for the windscreen wipers and we’ll stay here until you come back so we can show you where it goes’,” said Diana who at this stage still didn’t know either of their names, but appreciated their help.

It was only after going inside to buy the windscreen cleaner and pay for her petrol that she realised just how much help that was.

“The lady behind the counter said ‘they’ve already paid for you’. I said’ what do you mean?’ And she said ‘they’ve paid for you’. I couldn’t believe it,” said Diana, still in disbelief more than a fortnight on.

“I went out and said (to the women)’ I can’t let you pay for my petro’l and they said, ‘we want to do that’.“

So overwhelmed was Diana by the generosity of her two good samaritans, that she forgot to get their names and is now trying to get in touch to thank them.

“I’d give them a bunch of flowers, though I don’t know if they’d like that sort of thing,” she said.

“They can come to my place and have cake and a cup of tea any time”

May 27. (supplied) 410175_01

Reconciliation Week events begin

Reconciliation Week in Wyndham kicked off on Monday with a smoking ceremony, flag raising, and cultural activities held in Werribee.

The celebration to mark the beginning of the week from May 27 to June 3, took place outside the Wyndham Civic Centre with a Welcome to Country, Yidiki performance, guest speakers and songs from First Nations artist Kutcha Edwards and his band, also featuring.

Wyndham mayor Jennie Barrera said the coming week was an important one for both Indigenous peoples and the broader community.

“The National Reconciliation Week theme for 2024, ‘Now More Than Ever’, is a reminder

to all of us that no matter what, the fight for justice and the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people will — and must — continue,” Cr Barrera said.

“National Reconciliation Week is 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.”

ThebeginningofReconciliationWeekcame adayafterNationalSorryDayonSunday,May 26, which acknowledged the mistreatment of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people whowereforciblyremovedfromtheirfamilies and communities and are now known as ‘The Stolen Generations’.

Reconciliation Week events return to Wyndham Civic Centre on Wednesday, May 29 with a First Nations Art Tour showcasing Indigenous artworks installed throughout Bunurong and Waddawurrung land.

On Saturday, June 1 a Reconciliation Day tree planting will be held at Baden Powell Reserve in Tarneit, with the public invited to come along and help plant 2500 trees and 2225 grasses

In the spirit of reconciliation. Rhymetimeandstorytimesessionssharing stories by First Nations creators will be held at Wyndham libraries throughout the week.

Deatils: https://www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/ national-reconciliation-week

Whilemissingtheirnames,Dianadidglean thatthetwowomenweregarbagecollectorsfor a waste company subcontracted by Wyndham council and were wearing yellow jackets and one had glasses. She has since contacted council to try and identify them, but to no avail.

Wherever the two women are, Diana said they’re an example of the local community beingmuchkinderandmoregenerousthatit’s given credit for “I am sick to death of people running Werribee down. There’s a lot of lovely people here,” she said.

Anyone who knows the identity of the two female garbage collectors should contact the Star Weekly at: westeditorial@starweekly. com.au

Wyndham council is hosting a special documentary screening to coincide with World Environment Day on Friday June 7.

Rachel’s Farm, a documentary from renowned director, actress and now farmer, Rachel Ward, will be screened at Encore Events Centre in Hoppers Crossing.

The documentary follows Ward as she learns about the ecological impacts of conventional farming practices, and her transition to a regenerative farming approach.

Wyndham councillor Robert Szatkowski, said the documentary screening supported this year’s World Environment Day theme of land restoration, desertification, and drought resilience.

“World Environment Day is a time to encourage worldwide awareness and action to protect our environment, and is this year employing the hashtag #GenerationRestoration,” Cr Szatkowski said.

“All over the world, ecosystems are threatened – from forests and drylands to farmlands and lakes, natural spaces on which humanity’s existence depends are reaching a tipping point.”

Thescreeningwillbefollowedbylight refreshments and a panel discussion with local garden experts, farmers and Council staff about sustainable land use practices, community gardening, how we can support regenerative farmers, and the benefits of native grasses in farming.

For more information about the Rachel’s Farm screening, go to: https:// www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/whats-on/ world-environment-day-rachels-farmscreening

Working smoke alarms in every bedroom are ‘crucial’

A father whose family escaped a fire that destroyed their Truganina home in a matter of minutes is calling on Victorians to install smoke alarms in all bedrooms.

Ramesh Gajurel, his wife and child were finishing dinner in their kitchen when their hallway smoke alarm activated.

A fire had ignited in a spare bedroom and was quickly spreading through the house.

“We had just finished the dinner and were doing the clean-up and all of a sudden we heard the [smoke] alarm in the lounge area,” Mr Gajurel said.

“Wewentthrougheachandeveryroomand we found the second bedroom was already on

fire – then we just tried to find a way out.”

The bedroom door had been shut and there was no smoke alarm inside, so by the time the family was alerted to the fire it was already burning aggressively.

The family safely evacuated, but unfortunately the house was so badly damaged by the incident in November, 2023, that it had to be demolished.

Mr Gajurel said he considers himself as lucky, because if someone had been sleeping in the bedroom when the fire broke out, it would likely have been fatal.

“Ithinkit’sreallyimportanttohave[smoke] alarms in each bedroom, just in case. When

you are sleeping in the night … you can act very quickly,” he said.

The family’s lucky escape has prompted Victorianfireservicestoonceagainemphasise that smoke alarms are a bedroom essential.

FRV community safety deputy commissioner Joshua Fischer said fires that start in bedrooms were the ones most likely to kill you.

“If fire breaks out in your bedroom and the door is shut, the hallway smoke alarm will not activate until the fire has burned through the door, which will be too late,” he said.

“Smoke will not wake you – in fact, it will put you into a deeper sleep and render you

unconscious – so it’s crucial that you have a smoke alarm installed in all sleeping areas.

“Think about all the items we now find in bedrooms that could catch alight – from rechargeable battery products to electronic devices and heaters.

“Without a working smoke alarm, you may not get the chance to safely escape. Quite simply, they could save you and your family’s lives.”

CFA deputy chief officer Alen Slijepcevic said a smoke alarm costs as little as $20, with a range of other types on offer depending on your housing and financial situation.

Kutcha Edwards (centre) and his band perform at a ceremony to mark the beginning of Reconciliation Week at Wyndham Civic Centre on

Cat vax call after virus outbreak

By Cade Lucas

A local vet is urging cat owners to get their pets vaccinated due to an outbreak of the deadly panleukopenia virus in Wyndham.

Panleukopenia virus is a highly contagious disease of kittens and cats similar to parvovirus in dogs.

Dr Meredith Crowhurst from Central Veterinary Clinic and Hospital in Tarneit said she has seen far more cases of panleukopenia in the last four months, and more unusually in unvaccinated adult cats, than during her previous 16 years as a vet.

Dr Crowhurst said the current outbreak in the Wyndham was likely the result of recent

vaccine shortages, but other factors could also have contributed.

“It also seems some owners are unaware abouttheexistenceandbenefitsofgettingtheir cats vaccinated,” she said.

Panleukopenia virus has three main effects: It damages the lining of the intestines and can cause lethargy, inappetence, vomiting, and diarrhoea and in severe cases, the diarrhoea is bloody, runny, and very smelly; it destroys immune cells involved in fighting infection making it harder for infected cats to fight disease and can also cause other opportunistic infections; it damages the cerebellum, the part of the brain involved in fine motor function, especiallyinnewbornorunbornkittenswhich

Grant to help families

Occasionally even those who provide help need a helping hand of their own.

Point Cook’s Belinda Webster helps people for a living, providing counselling for mums and their children through her business, Brick Lane Therapy.

Butinordertoexpandthebusinessandhelp even more families in the area, Ms Webster has received help in the form of a $2500 grant from property developer, Cedar Woods.

Brick Lane Therapy was one of four Wyndham charities, community groups and smallbusinessesawardedinthelatestroundof Cedar Woods Community Grants Program. Bruh Tesfa Ethiopian Youth and Parents Social Services Inc, Victorian Bangladeshi Community Foundation and West Point Soccer Club were also awarded grants as part of the program which the property developer

established in 2009.

“It’s a great opportunity to help some mothersinthecommunitywhoarestruggling with their mental health,” Ms West said.

Ms West opened Brick Lane Therapy 12 months ago, after becoming a counsellor following a 20 year career in television.

She said the grant will help her provide free group therapy sessions.

Ms West noted that demand for this type of counselling was particularly strong in Point Cook and Wyndham.

“A lot of these parents in the community here have come from overseas and don’t have support or anyone to turn to and a lot have experienced trauma which they haven’t been able to process before, so it’s helping parents like these and their children.”

can be life-long balance problems and tremors.

The disease can kill young kittens and make adult cats quite ill.

Dr Crowhurst used the recent case of Fluffy, an adult cat admitted to her clinic with a lack of appetite and tiredness, as example of why vaccinating against panleukopenia virus was so important.

“Is your cat vaccinated?,” the vet asked. “No, because Fluffy is an indoor cat,” the owner replied. “Does she go outside at all?” “No,theonlytimeshehasbeenoutsideiswhen she escaped for four hours last week.” The vet did an in-house test for the virus, and it was positive.

“Just four hours out wandering was enough

for this unvaccinated cat to catch the virus and make her quite ill,” Dr Crowhurst said.

Dr Crowhurst said while Fluffy had since recovered,shewashelpedbyheradultimmune system and that most kittens wouldn’t have been so lucky. She said panleukopenia virus was entirely preventable with standard vaccines and that kittens required three doses from six weeks old and adult cats two, with boosters then required annually.

In a statement Wyndham council said they had not found any cases of panleukopenia in impounded cats or kittens, but recommended any residents noticing symptoms or illness in their cats, to contact their local vet.

Belinda Webster from Brick Road Therapy received a grant from Cedar Woods that will help her provide more mental health support for parents and their children in Point Cook. (Damjan Janevski)

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The ‘critical’ first 1000 days

Australia is grappling with the twin crises of family violence and housing shortages. At the Caroline Chisholm Society (CCS) these two nation-wide issues have come to a head as Hannah Hammoud reports.

The Caroline Chisholm Society – based in the western suburbs of Melbourne –provides wrap-around family services to prevent the need for child protection involvement for thousands of women and their children who might otherwise have entered or experienced the trauma of out of home care.

CCS chief executive Jennifer Weber said early intervention and prevention is the key to working towards positive outcomes for vulnerable women.

“We are experiencing a demand for services, particularly for women who are pregnant and impacted by family violence and homelessness,” Ms Weber said.

‘‘ Pregnancy is often a very vulnerable time for women and it can often be the trigger life-event where women start to experience violence ’’ - Jennifer Weber

“We know from research that pregnancy is often a very vulnerable time for women and it can often be the trigger life-event where women start to experience violence.”

Ms Weber said services like the CCS aim to provide essential support to pregnant women, allowing them to self-refer to family services priortochildbirth.Thegoalistoconnectthese expectant mothers with resources early on, ensuring their safety and readiness for their baby’s arrival. However, the current surge in demand has meant that pregnant women are often not prioritised until after their baby is born.

This delay can lead to severe consequences. For instance, when at-risk mothers give birth, childprotectionservicesmaybecomeinvolved immediately if there are concerns about the mother’s ability to provide a safe environment for the baby. In some cases, mothers have reported being told they cannot take their baby home or continue breastfeeding because child protection has decided to place the baby

in care due to perceived risks.

Ms Weber said a common scenario involves mothers who are escaping family violence and have been unable to secure stable housing during their pregnancy. Upon giving birth, they face immediate scrutiny from child protection services. If they are found to lack safe housing, their newborn may be required to stay in the hospital until suitable accommodation is found. This situation forces new mothers into a frantic search for housing, under the pressure of knowing their baby cannot come home until it is resolved.

MsWebersaidfundingreceivedbytheCCS limits what the organisation can do in the early intervention/prevention space – called the “first 1000 days” – a critical time between a woman’s pregnancy and her child’s second birthday. The first 1000 days represents a time that can be an opportunity for both “tremendous potential” as well as a time of “potential risk of adversity and vulnerability.”

Ms Weber said funding for family services liketheCCSisthe“loosechangeinthecouch” to supporting this increasingly vulnerable cohort of women.

“Wearenotaskingformillionsandmillions of dollars but we are asking for the discussion and serious consideration to be given to how we can be funded,” she said.

“There are more than 2000 women in Victoria needing help and there are very limited pathways into services for women. Instead of somebody putting them onto a waitlist, we can start working with them straightaway,andwegetreallygoodoutcomes when we do this because we can move very quickly to stabilise the situation.

“To me, the housing first principle is first and foremost. In the government budgets there are very grand themes that seem to be identified,butwhataboutwhenorganisations areendeavouringtodowhattheseaspirations are trying to solve by coming up with real solutions. But we in fact still can’t get access to respectable housing solutions, and by that I mean not putting pregnant women into hotels that most of us would never want to be staying in, and they’ve got two to three days to stay there and then they’ve got to find somewhere else.”

A state government spokesperson said victim survivors of family violence are prioritised for social housing.

“Housing allocations for family violence survivors have grown by 49 per cent since 2019-20,” the spokesperson said.

“We have also invested more than $72 million in the Victorian Budget 2024-25 to provide immediate support and emergency accommodation for survivors of family violence.

“The Premier Jacinta Allan and Minister for Prevention of Family Violence Vicki Ward recently met with the sector to hear about what is working well and what more we can do to provide emergency accommodation for those escaping family violence.”

Ms Weber said the CCS wants the government to enable them to work with women “sooner rather than later”.

“We want them to help us find houses and accommodation that can be available for six to 12 months at least in the short term to stabilise mum’s situation,” she said.

Ms Weber said in the prenatal stage, providing timely support to expectant motherscanbeapivotalmomentthatchanges the trajectory of their lives and the lives of their unborn children.

“I often think of it as a sliding doors moment,” Ms Weber said.

“Consider the case of a pregnant woman who arrives in Victoria from another state, fleeing family violence and other issues. She has been couch surfing, and her Centrelink payments have been disrupted due to her unstable living conditions. In the final weeks of her pregnancy, she visits a Centrelink office to fix her payment issues. During her visit, she starts to reveal more about her situation, which raises red flags. The Centrelink social worker then comes over to speak with her and this is where the sliding doors moment happens. The social worker has a couple of options, they could either flag her case in the system or they could call the Caroline Chisholm Society. Within hours of us getting that call, we’ve set up a practitioner, a doula to support mum during her childbirth, and because we’ve been able to provide wrap around services we can then start addressing housing and other issues and child protection doesn’t need to be involved.”

Ms Weber said this scenario underscores the critical need for proactive supportsystems for expectant mothers, especially those in vulnerable situations.

MsWebersaidthecurrentsystemoftenfalls short with many expectant mothers facing delays and barriers when seeking support, sometimes resulting in situations that could have been avoided with timely assistance.

“We need to do better for anyone regardless of their particular situation – not having to sit and wait at intakes to be considered for a few nights of accommodation. But particularly so for a pregnant woman, it’s such a critical time for them as they are about to give birth, if child protection gets that call and has to investigate once mum gives birth… this is not going to be a great outcome.

“If baby has to be removed from mum and gointocare,what’sthatgoingtocost?Notjust the social and emotional wellbeing of mum and bub, but on the system itself?”

Caroline Chisholm Society chief executive

Jennifer Weber. (Damjan Janevski) 407746_01

(iStock)

Tool time in Wyndham as new library is opened

Home maintenance and DIY is about to be more affordable and sustainable for Wyndham residents, with the new Wyndham Park Tool Library officially opened on Thursday.

Werribee MP Tim Pallas and Wyndham mayor Jennie Barerra were on hand for the opening of the new library where local residents will be able to borrow and donate tools – helping to ease cost of living pressures and reducing the need to purchase more materials and appliances that might only be used once.

The library has over 400 items available to borrow,includinggardentools,woodworking and carpentry tools, artist tools, construction tools, camping equipment and more. Studies

Arrests after crime spree in Werribee

Police have arrested and charged five people following a crime spree in Werribee last week.

Police will allege a silver Toyota Hilux was stolen from Jacana on Wednesday, May 22, and then driven to the Pacific Werribee shopping centre at the intersection of Heaths and Derrimut roads about 10.20am.

Itisallegedfourmalesenteredaretailstore at the shopping centre and stole numerous clothing items.

When confronted by a staff member and then a security guard, members of the group revealed edged weapons under their clothing before running away.

The five males then allegedly drove the stolen Hilux to Point Cook where they were spotted by police about 10.35am.

It is alleged three males fled from the car and attempted to run away from police, before being caught and arrested.

The two remaining males allegedly drove away, hitting an unmarked police car in the process.

After police deployed stop-sticks on Old Geelong Road, the pair drove onto the Princes Freeway inbound, where it’s alleged they collided with a marked police car before being arrested.

No-one was injured during the collision.

An 18-year-old Williams Landing man was charged with theft of a motor vehicle and theft.

An 18-year-old Maidstone man was charged with theft of motor vehicle, theft, dangerous driving whilst being pursued, conduct endangering serious injury, armed with criminal intent, possess controlled weapon and other traffic offences.

A 19-year-old Deer Park man was charged with theft of motor vehicle, theft, armed with criminal intent and possession of a controlled weapon.

All three were bailed to appear at Werribee Magistrates’ Court on October 8.

A 17-year-old Jacana boy was charged with theft of motor vehicle, theft, assault with a weapon and unlawful assault.

A 17-year-old Mill Park boy was charged with theft of motor vehicle and theft.

Both have been summonsed to attend a children’s court at a later date.

have found that if 250 items were used from the tool library by a community that would save one tonne of waste from landfill, and four tonnes of new products that did not have to be manufactured.

The state government provide a grant of $91,900 to help establish the tool library, one of more than 60 projects funded through the $7.3 million Circular Economy Councils Fund.

“This project helps to reduce the resources thatarewastedbytoolssittingunusedinsheds andgarages,reducingwasteandconsumption and contributing to a more sustainable future for all Victorians,” Environment Minister Steve Dimopoulos said.

Mr Pallas said easy access to tools was just

one of the benefits the new library would provide.

“Having the right tool for the job just got easier thanks to our new Wyndham Park Tool Library – equipping local residents with essential tools and fostering a sense of community and support.”

The Tool Library is currently open on Wednesdays, with plans to open on Saturdays later this year. Details: https://www. wyndhamparktoollibrary.com.au/

Tax cuts for every

Wyndham mayor Jennie Barrera and Werribee MP Tim Pallas (centre) help open the Wyndham Park Tool Library on May 23. (Supplied)

Expo helps job hopefuls

By Cade Lucas

Werribee 18-year-old Glennon Brown is nothing if not optimistic.

Like many young people his age, the year 12 student at Wyndham Central College is searchingforacasualjob,somethingtoprovide some income, some independence and some experience of the workplace ahead of seeking full-time employment in the years to come.

Unfortunately,theonlyexperienceGlennon’s gained from job-seeking so far has been how to deal with rejection.

“I’ve applied for 60 jobs in total now, and most, if not all, have already said no,” he said in a remarkably cheery tone before quickly adding,“exceptforoneplace,whichI’mhoping will come back to me soon.”

Evenifitturnsouttoberejectionnumber61, Glennon seems unlikely to be deterred from applying for number 62.

“At first I feel nicked off about it (being rejected) but at the same time it’s like, you’ve got to take it with a grain of salt and try again,” he said.

While waiting to see if his luck in the job market while finally turn, Glennon is doing everything he can to make his job applications better, joining more than 200 teenagers at a careers expo hosted by Anglicare Victoria in Werribee on Wednesday.

Held at The Garage drop-in centre May 22, the expo provided young job hunters with resume writing and job interview tutorials, as well as the contact details of local Wyndham businesses searching for staff.

It’s the third annual careers expo Anglicare Victoria have held in Werribee and The Garage’s youth program facilitator Hanna Meilak said the previous two had made a real difference.

“We’ve seen a lot of young people come back

and let us know that they’ve got a job or they’ve been able to hand in their resume and they’ve got that confidence to go speak to managers or different employers to hand it in and ask them if they’re hiring and what type of jobs they’re looking for,” Ms Meilak said.

The annual career expo is run in addition to weekly job training sessions at The Garage which youth team leader Teresa Cunningham said had been transformative young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.

YOUR NEW CAREER ... starts here

“We have young people that we’ve trained that haven’t gone to school in a year or two, but we’vetrainedthemandwe’velookedaftertheir baby while they’ve trained and then we’ve had them read out the questions because they can’t read and write,” she said.

“So whenever we offer training we ask that they be read, so that those young people can still get a certificate even if they can’t read and write. We give flexibility and a lot of other services just don’t give that sort of flexibility.”

Local election information

The Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) is holding a series of information sessions aimed at prospective candidates in this year’s council elections and the broader community.

Sessionscanbeattendedbothinperson or online, and will provide information about the role and purpose of local government, roles and responsibilities of themayor,localcouncillors,andthechief executive,electionprocessandcandidate requirements, councillor training and development opportunities, as well as whatnewlyelectedcouncilorscanexpect after an election.

Participants can register to attend more than one session, including outside their municipality. To support and encourage diverse candidates, MAV will host additional sessions for women, people with disabilities, LGBTQA+ people, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, youth, and linguistically diverse communities.

The next local council election will be held in October 2024.

To become a candidate, residents must be an Australian citizen aged 18 years or older, be enrolled in the council they’re contesting and have completed the mandatory local government candidate training.

The metropolitan west session will be held on Wednesday, June 5, at the Wyndham Civic Centre, 45 Princes Highway, Werribee. The metropolitan north session will be held on Thursday, July18,attheTownHallBroadmeadows, 10 Dimboola Road, Broadmeadows.

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The successful applicant will need to possess good people skills to enable them to meet with local businesses to sell solutions through our advertising platforms to help promote their business.

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Applicants will need their own reliable vehicle for which we will provide an allowance.

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Louis Grima is providing free friendship across Melbourne’s north and west to bring together like-minded people and give people an opportunity to enhance their social life, with the Fusion Friendship Group.

After running a single’s dance club more than 20 years ago, the passion returned for Louis to bring people together and seek out new friendships from himself and for others, causing him to found this group.

He said the group provides an opportunity for anybody to make new friends in safe environments.

“We’re mainly into music, dancing, and dinners,” he said. “We’re out every Saturday and Sunday.”

“There’s no cut off on age, we’re open to anyone, but it’s more suited for 45 and up.”

“This group’s aim is to bring together and give the opportunity to people to enhance

their social life and to meet new and interesting like-minded people. Our events will predominantly be held in Melbourne’s western and northern suburbs. If this sounds like you, don’t die wondering and hop on board.”

The group hosts a number of events, with anywhere from 10 to 40 people attending each time.

Mr Grima said the group’s strong mix of people from all over Melbourne’s north and west means the group has events all across Melbourne, but most notably in the North the group loves Music Land and the Darebin RSL. To cater for older members and regular workers, they have Sunday events typically running from 3pm to 6pm.

Join: https://shorturl.at/pyJsV

Gerald Lynch

Louis Grima runs a friendship group in the northern and western suburbs. (Damjan Janevski) 407123_01

Hannah Meilak (left) from The Garage drop-in centre and Werribee 18 year old Glennon Brown at the Anglicare Victoria careers expo on May 22. (Cade Lucas) 409347_01

Community fundraiser

Seven community groups joined forces to raise money for the Cancer Council at the Point Cook Community Learning Centre last week.

Participants shared coffee, tea and cake while raising money as part of Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea on Wednesday 22 May.

Wyndham Council staff from the Neighbourhood Hubs team helped organise the event.

Organisations represented at the morning tea were the Point Cook Cross Cultural Connection, Point Cook Indian Seniors Group, Melbourne Yangtze Choir, Multicultural Women Victoria - Women’s Circle, Point Cook VIEW Club, Point Cook Seniors Group and the Point Cook Craft Group, which donated $1000 from selling their handiwork.

After weeks of planning, members of these groups generously donated their home baked

delicacies, brought in their teapots and cake stands for over 130 community members to enjoy a high tea amid an ambiance of yellow and blue.

Keeping with the theme, some participants also crocheted yellow daffodils for everyone to wear.

The Werribee South CWA opened the day with a special performance of the Shania Twain song Man! I Feel Like A Woman!

One participant said the event was a “wonderful example of different groups coming together in collaboration, sharing their strengths and resources which resulted in a joyful day, remembering those who have been impacted by cancer“.

Thankstothegenerosityofthecommunity, the event raised $3643.54 at last count, with more still coming in. Sponsors included Point Cook Woolworths, Coles and Bakers Delight.

Briefs

Evade

A man has been charged after allegedly evading police in a stolen vehicle in Hoppers Crossing on Monday. Officers were called to reports an allegedly stolen Audi sedan was parked outside a property on Colliet Place about 2.20pm on May 27. Police followed the vehicle to Tarneit Road, before stop sticks were deployed on Heaths Road. The driver, a 27-year-old Werribee man, was arrested at the scene and charged with theft of motor vehicle, driving in a dangerous manner, driving whilst disqualified and trafficking a drug of dependence. He’s been bailed to appear at Werribee Magistrates’ Court at a later date.

Scissor threat

Police arrested a man following reports he had threatened a security guard with a pair of scissors at Pacific Werribee shopping centre on Friday. The confrontation occurred about 1.30pm on May 24 and no one was injured. Officers arrested a 25-year-old Mordialloc man outside the shopping centre on Derrimiut Road after he had attempted to flee the scene. Despite a thorough search of the area, police were unable to locate a pair of scissors. The man was released pending further inquiries.

FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT

Web: starweekly.com.au Wyndham Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Enjoying morning tea were back, Constance, Marlene, Tanya and Panjak. Front, Indria, Jinan and Neelam.

SES pleads for a funding lifeline

By Jennifer Pittorino

Victoria State Emergency Service (SES) volunteers have been left disappointed with the recent state budget, which delivered less money for the volunteer organisation than expected.

Fawkner unit deputy controller Michael Casha said although each unit receives a small subsidy from the state government, it always falls “drastically” short and is felt across the organisation, especially in the north-west.

“Within Melbourne’s north-west, there are units with no state government-provided vehicles meaning they simply wouldn’t be able to get out on the road if it weren’t for volunteers chasing donations and funding their vehicles,” he said.

In addition to receiving second-hand uniforms for new members and not having enough money for required truck licences and training, Mr Casha said the VICSES Hobsons Bay Unit in Altona is not fit for purpose.

“The Altona unit is within a shared council facility, they do not have dedicated parking for volunteers who sometimes have to park minutes down the road when responding to emergencies,” he said.

“Their building is not fit-for-purpose and even sustained storm damage while responding to the community.”

Although $7 million in funding for the SES was announced in the budget, Mr Casha said once broken down the funding is not what it seems.

“Nearly $5 million of this is simply a reallocation of existing funds within the SES budget,” he said.

“And an additional half-million is spread over four years for an existing training program.”

Mr Casha said this leaves a little over $1 million in new funding for VICSES in 2024-2025.

“While we appreciate any support, this falls short of what’s needed to address the ongoing strain on our volunteers and our infrastructure,” he said.

“Whilst our volunteers are the heart of VICSES, they shouldn’t have to be the wallet too.”

Mr Casha said the 4956 volunteers are coming off the biggest three years they have ever had and cannot rely on current fundraising methods.

“We are not asking for a handout, we are

asking for a sustainable funding model that will immediately see a redirection of hours currently spent chasing donations, into more training and increased operational response,” he said.

“VICSES relies heavily on volunteer-led fundraising to maintain equipment, facilities, and source and replace vehicles, something which is unsustainable.

“The forecasts show no signs of slowing, we need a sustainable funding model.”

Worried that the lack of funding will drive volunteers away, Mr Casha said hours which should be spent rescuing are being used for fundraising.

“Every volunteer has a set amount of hours that they are able to give to VICSES,” he said.

“But what we’re seeing more and more, is those hours being consumed by volunteers having to fundraise.

“We want volunteers to be able to hold chainsaws and rescue tools, not chase donations.”

A state government spokesperson said that the VICSES has been given $111 million in the last three years in terms of vital funding. The state government disputed the claim that only $1 million of the $7 million was new funding, but did not provide any further clarification.

SES volunteers from the Hobsons Bay Unit. (Damjan Janevski) 409249_03

Storm taps Wyndham’s talent

Budding rugby league stars at The Grange P-12 College in Hoppers Crossing are getting a helping hand in realising their NRL dreams, with the school participating in a high-performance program run by the Melbourne Storm.

A renowned nursery for both rugby codes, The Grange is one of four rugby league academy schools across Victoria participating in the Storm’s high performance program.

The program involves the Storm’s full-time pathway coaches and staff conducting weekly sessions at the school’s, while a number of current Melbourne Storm NRL players will make guest appearances too. Storm director of football, Frank Ponissi said partnering with academy schools such as The Grange was already paying dividends for the club.

“Eight-three per cent of our current under-17andunder-19juniorrepteamsattend one of the four academy schools in Victoria,” said Ponissi, who hopes the introduction of the high-performance program will further

enhance this talent pathway.

“Introducing the coaching philosophies that we use at Storm and offering support in strength and conditioning, nutrition and player welfare and support, will ensure these pathways are further strengthened well into the future. It will also help us to identify other players not yet in our junior rep system.”

Cards to stay connected

This month, one million households across the state will receive a special prepaid postcard thanks to Australia Post and Beyond Blue.

The Connection Postcard program is entering its fourth year, with a strong focus on encouraging greater community connection and supporting mental wellbeing across the country.

According to Ending Loneliness Together’s State of the Nation Report, nearly one in three Australians struggle with loneliness, especiallyinremoteorregionalareas,causing Australia Post to increase its distribution of postcards in this year’s program.

The two-part ‘Connection Postcard includes important mental health information and Beyond Blue contact details, and a detachable second part including a pre-paid postcard for recipients to pen a personalised note to send to a friend or loved one.

Created by regional Australian artist Jocelyn Proust, the illustration includes two fairy wrens in a vibrant natural setting

to signify the power of communication for connection and begins with the words, ‘sharing this postcard because I care’.

Australia Post community and stakeholder engagement general manager Nicky Tracey said Australia Post is proud to be expanding the campaign in 2024.

Beyond Blue chief executive Georgie Harman said the expanded campaign is coming at a time when greater community connection and awareness about accessible and affordable mental health support is critical.

“While people have never been more digitally connected, the research shows too many people experience feelings of disconnection, loneliness and isolation. In our fourth year in partnership with Australia Post, we hope to continue fostering genuine connection through the simple act of sending a personalised postcard, while also encouraging people to look after their mental health and know that Beyond Blue is always there for them with free support around the clock,” she said.

ARE YOU A LOCAL COMMUNITY GROUP LOOKING FOR SPONSORSHIP?

We’re excited to offer sponsorship opportunities as part of our community benefit scheme!

Beyond Blue chief executive Georgie Harman and Australia Post general manager of community and stakeholder engagement Nicky Tracey with a large

The Grange P-12 College student and Melbourne Storm high-performance program participant, Levi.

Jeremiah is among students at four Victorian rugby league academy schools participating in the Melbourne Storm program.

The Grange P-12 College student and junior rugby league player, Samson, shows off his skills

The Grange P-12 College student Jeremiah practices his passing. (Damjan Janevski) 409320_02

Jeremiah will receive coaching from Melbourne Storm academy staff as part of the high-performance program.

The Grange P-12 College students Jeremiah, Samson and Levi who are participating in the Melbourne Storm high-performance program. (Damjan Janevski) 409320_01

Labor could bend on airport rail

By Callum Goode, AAP

The long-running impasse between the Victorian government and the operators of the proposed Melbourne Airport Rail could finally be easing.

The airport and state government are at odds over whether the planned Tullamarine station should be above or below ground.

The stalemate has pushed back the project’s completion at least four years until 2033 and forced the Commonwealth to appoint an independent mediator.

In 2018, the Victorian and federal governments committed to contributing $5 billion each to the project, expected to cost between $8 billion and $13 billion.

MelbourneAirportwaspartofaconsortium the following year that offered up to $7 billion

towards an underground airport station and express tracks from Sunshine to Southern Cross, but the offer was knocked back.

Despite suggesting the consortium’s preferred route lacked additional stations, Deputy Premier Ben Carroll has signalled a willingness to restart formal discussions.

“Iftheofferstillstands,we’lltakethemoney please and let’s get on and build it,” he said on Monday.

“Seven billion dollars in combination with the $10 billion from the Commonwealth and the state that makes it … a $17 billion project.

We’d be able to get it done tomorrow.”

If the cheque was on the table, the deputy premier indicated the government would even be open to bending to the airport’s demand for the station to be underground.

“Our preference is above ground but we

can look at how they want to fully fund an underground (station),” he said.

However, Mr Carroll said the government could not let the airport “hold the state to ransom” and noted the potential problems from building underground.

“Thereisamassiveamountofinfrastructure that would need to be accounted for and expended on,” he said.

“We can get this done if they stop being intransigent and stop protecting their car park revenue.”

Melbourne Airport was contacted for a response.

Rank-and-file Victorian Labor members passed a motion on May 19 calling on the government to “get serious” about the rail link’s development and for all parties to roll up their sleeves to get the project done.

In response, the airport said it remained supportive of a “future-proof” airport rail link and revealed it offered in April to explore potential funding opportunities.

The offer was reiterated to government following the May 7 state budget but its requests for a meeting were refused, the airport said.

Opposition transport infrastructure David Southwick said he was “not fussed” whether the station was elevated or underground and called on the government to return to the negotiating table.

“If you’ve got a willing partner to be able to put some money behind this, then let’s get a deal done,” Mr Southwick said.

“We’ve got a government that keeps making excuses and kicking the can down the road when it comes to airport rail.”

Breast cancer survivor is running for her life

Not many people attempt to run four half marathons in a year, however breast cancer survivor Michelle Rickett is defying the odds and smashing her goals to raise funds for the organisations which have helped cure her cancer.

It has been eight years since the resident of Melbourne’s west was diagnosed with stage three triple-negative breast cancer.

Unlike other cancers, Michelle’s does not allow her to take hormone replacements which means she must produce her own natural hormones.

To keep the cancer away following her radiation and chemotherapy treatments, Michelle’s oncologist told her the best way to stay healthy is through exercise.

“If I exercise I produce the natural hormone that helps stop my cancer from recurring,” she explained.

“So it is basically down to me to stop mine from coming back, and unfortunately triple-negative is one of the highest recurring cancers.”

Backed by research, Michelle’s oncologist said exercise is a highly effective way to prevent the cancer from returning.

However, given how rare Michelle’s cancer is, the research is limited, which is why she is on a mission to do as much charity fundraising asshecanbetweenthetwoorganisationswhich have helped her the most, Cancer Council and Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre.

Triple-negative breast cancer is a ultra rare form of breast cancer which is typically hereditary. Thankfully, Michelle hasn’t passed thegeneontoherdaughtersAntoniaandJodie.

“Stage three is as pretty bad as it gets apart from death,” she said.

“So four days after I finished chemo I went for a four kilometre walk with my kids, then I

did a couple of five kilometre walks and then I did my first 10 kilometre exactly a year after finishing my treatments.”

Michelle slowly worked her way up to a half marathon and is now on a mission to run four this year.

“I just did my first along the Great Ocean

Road and my next will be the Run Melbourne half-marathon,” she said.

“Each time I get to the end and I just think, ’bloody hell how did I do this?’

“But my motto is if cancer can’t kill me, then this isn’t going to kill me. Running has got nothing on cancer, so I just keep running.”

With each half marathon she completes, Michelle has decided to split her fundraising efforts to donate to all the charities which have helped her with her cancer.

“For my Run Melbourne marathon in July I will be donating to Cancer Council and then for the last two I will be donating to the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre,” she said.

“I wanted to split my efforts across the two charities which have really helped me through my treatment.

“I like to make sure that I’m giving back because they rely a lot on people’s generosity.”

OriginallyfromCornwall,England,Michelle and husband Andrew moved to Melbourne 12 years ago, which she said saved her life.

“If it wasn’t for the amazing medical services here, I would actually be dead,” she said.

“Everything happens so quickly here. I was diagnosed with cancer on a Monday and I was being operated on the Friday.

“I don’t take anything for granted. I always think I am really privileged and lucky to be here.

“And if I lived in England I unfortunately don’t think I would have got the service I did here.”

With her next half marathon less than two months away, Michelle is ready to smash her own time goal.

“I am feeling really good. I have a goal I am aiming for which is what I have been training for,” she said.

“My husband says it’s an obsession, a lot of people can be addicted to some really bad things, all I am addicted to is running.”

Details: https://runmelbourne24.grassrootz. com/cancer-council-victoria/michellerickett?tab=donations

Pittorino

Jennifer

Michelle Rickett. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 407348_01

New babies on the Savannah

calves – a spectacular and mysterious species of antelope – recently born at the zoo.

Werribee Open Range Zoo Savannah keeper Katie Jones said the tiny calves are difficult to spot because they spend their first few weeks separated from the herd.

calves when they think the coast is clear, and the calves re-join the rest of the herd when they’re old enough.”

Nyala are a shy species of antelope that prefer to dwell in dense forest areas in order to camouflage.

If you look carefully, you might spot some very big ears poking through the long grass at Werribee Open Range Zoo’s Savannah. The ears belong to four precious Nyala

“After the calves are born, the mothers use a behaviour called ’stashing’ where they hide them in long grass or at the base of trees to protect them from potential predators,” Ms Jones said.

“The mothers come every day to feed the

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Ms Jones said the striking white vertical stripes that run down their shimmering chestnut fur are what makes them so unique.

“They’re not the best runners and have a bit of an awkward gait, so to camouflage

they rely on the dappled sunlight casting patterns similar to the stipes and dots on their backs.

“It can take quite a lot of looking through the trees to see them and even zookeepers struggle sometimes.”

Lowlandnyalaareamedium-sizedantelope native to south-eastern Africa. Males can be identified by their large spiralling horns. Scientists estimate nyala have lived for over five million years, making them older than humanity.

Situated in a highly sought-after pocket of Tarneit, this spacious block of land is close to shopping centres, lovely parks and reserves, quality zoned schools and everything else Tarneit and its surrounding suburbs have to offer.

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One of the four Nyala calves born at Werribee Open Range Zoo. Right: You can often spot the calves hiding in the long grass. (Pictures: Supplied)

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

Global Kitchen West

Multicultural Women Victoria runs a Global Kitchen for women every Monday during the school term from 10am-2pm at the Penrose Promenade Community Centre in Tarneit. Registration required (women only)

■ Sudha 0432 489 584

Werribee Jazz Club

Join the Werribee Jazz Club on the 2nd Sunday of the month from 2pm to 5pm, for three hours of great music, dancing or relaxed listening. You can enjoy live bands featuring some of Australia’s best jazz musicians playing, traditional, dixieland, swing, RnB and mainstream jazz. BYO nibbles, drinks available at moderate bar prices with complimentary tea and coffee. We are located at the Werribee Bowls Club, Watton Street, Werribee. Entry: $22. ■ Jenny, 0419 558 481

Drumming classes

Community adult drumming class. If you ever wanted to try out your rhythmic skills, the first class is free and concessions apply for other classes. All hand drums supplied or BYO. No experience required, just bring an open heart and mind and enjoy making some great rhythms together. The class is friendly and welcoming to everyone. Thursdays, 7.30pm to 8.30pm, during school terms, at Saltwarter Community Centre, 153 Saltwater Parade, Point Cook. ■ 0411 028 077 or bfmusic15@gmail.com

Wyndham Ladies Probus

Retired or semi-retired ladies are invited to join this very active social group. Enjoy impressive monthly guest speakers, interesting monthly outings and many lunches where the development of friendships is encouraged. The Ladies Probus Club of Wyndham meets on the first Wednesday of each month at Hotel 520, Sayers Road, Tarneit, at 10am.

■ Pat, 0411 316 795

Laverton Community Choir

The choir is currently welcoming new members – especially male voices. If you love singing and would like to be part of a choir – come along and try out your vocal cords. There are no auditions and you don’t need to be able to read music. The group meets on Thursday evenings during school terms at Laverton P12 College, 91 Bladin Street, Laverton, from 7-9pm.

■ Sue, 0418 386 147 or lavertoncommunitychoir@gmail.com

Point Cook VIEW

The Point Cook Day VIEW Club (for ladies) meets on the fourth Wednesday of the month at the Point Cook Library, 1-21 Cheetham Street, Point Cook. Members enjoy afternoon teas and outings. New members welcome. VIEW Is part of the Smith Family.

■ Catherine, 0407 726 852

Watton Group

A support group providing a social space for carers to get together in a safe and compassionate environment. Gives carers an opportunity to connect, share their experiences and offers emotional and practical support. The group meets at the Eco-Living Centre at 10am, every fourth Tuesday of the month.

■ Patricia, 0434 487 360, or wattongroup131@gmail.com.

All Abilities Netball

All Abilities Netball for 10-to-25-year-olds is run by Wyndham Netball Association every Saturday morning during school terms, from 10.30am, on outside court 14 at Eagle Stadium, Ballan Road, Werribee. Intellectual, physical and social disabilities

are catered for in a fun and supported group. Come and try your first session for free, with stadium entry $2.

■ Phil, 0437 078 739

Walking Netball

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

■ Phil, 0437 078 739

Wyndham Rotary

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

■ Julie, 0406 196 630

With One Voice Wyndham Choir

With One Voice Wyndham Choir is a community choir open to all. The community choir welcomes all ages, abilities, faiths, cultures and genders and is directed by a very experienced and friendly professional conductor. Fun weekly rehearsals and amazing performance opportunities are provided. They sing for an hour and then have a cuppa. The first two visits are free; and then payment is by tax-deductible donation. Tuesday evenings, 7-8.30pm, at Wayaperri House, 106 Duncans Road, Werribee.

■ wyndham@withonevoice.org.au

Adult community garden group

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

■ 8742 3688

Western Budgerigar Club

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

■ Don, 0414 975 862

Seniors House of Fun

The Grange Community Centre invites seniors of Wyndham to its weekly Seniors House of Fun. This is a free program running every Friday, 11am-12.30pm, at The Grange Community Centre, 260-280 Hogans Road, Hoppers Crossing.

■ Vanessa, 8742 8000, or enquires@grangecommunity.org.au

Seniors club

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

■ 0403 041 499

Diabetes Support Group

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

■ Bob, 0409 252 872

U3A Werribee

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

■ Rick, 0402 299 220

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of the Melton South Primary School colour run.(Damjan Janevski) 408205_01

Hoppers Crossing Ladies Probus

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

■ 0408 123 669

Lions Club

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

■ Jorge, 0433 566 575

Bingo for all

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

■ 9741 5525

Western Melbourne Men’s Chorus

Do you like to sing? The Western Melbourne Men’s Chorus wants you! Be part of a rewarding fraternity of fellow amateur musicians serving the community, sharing comradery and having fun. Rehearsals at 7pm Tuesday evenings at St James Church, Hoppers Crossing.

■ Chris, 0400 414 215

Dementia-cise

Fitness for her is offering a free, low-impact group class for individuals with dementia to maintain communication and social engagement. A six-week term started on Thursday, May 9, and will offer 30-minute exercise classes for people living with dementia and their carers at Central Square Shopping Centre, shop 46-47, Newham Way, Altona Meadows.

■ www.fitnessforher.com.au, or 9360 8000

Werribee River Association

New volunteers to support Landcare work along the Werribee River. A great way to give back, get outdoors and work at your own pace.

■ Lisa Field, 0433 559 530, admin@werribeeriver.org.au, or www.werribeeriver.org.au

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 Uncovered (7)

5 Tools used to hold a wood or metal workpiece (1,6)

9 Amply (11)

10 Angry crowd (3)

11 Votary (6)

12 Comfort (7)

14 Directs (4)

15 Uneducated (10)

17 Rival (10)

19 Book ID (1,1,1,1)

20 Induct (7)

22 Resolve (6)

25 Pester (3)

26 Offender (11)

28 Raffle (7)

29 Forest workers (7)

1 See (4)

2 Alias, pen-name (9)

3 Lecher (5)

4 Submissive (11)

5 Hair product (3)

6 Launch a tirade at (3,4)

7 Latin American dance (5)

8 Section title (10)

12 Aficionado (11)

13 Partial (10)

16 Christmas plant (9)

18 Instance (7)

21 Spectacle (5)

23 Capital of Italy’s Piedmont region (5)

24 Advantages (4)

27 Narrow beam (3)

apostrophes or plural nouns ending in “s”.

1 What kind of food are poffertjes?

2 Who is the narrator in Markus Zusak’s The Book Thief?

3 Colloquially, what is a sparky?

4 What kind of fruit is ume?

5

What year did World War II end?

Natasha Lyonne

stars as Charlie Cale in which comedy series?

What is an archipelago?

And what is the world’s largest archipelagic state?

Advocaat is a traditional Dutch beverage made with

sugar and what kind of alcohol?

(pictured)

SPORTS QUIZ

1. Keegan Payne has won a million dollars after catching what kind of fish in an annual NT angling competition?

2. Where are the 2024 Olympics taking place in July?

3. Who won the Norm Smith medal in 2023?

4. In 2022, which team won the Major League Baseball World Series?

5. Bundee Aki currently plays rugby for which country?

6. In which year did Toby Greene become the solo captain of GWS?

7. Which boxing legend is returning to the sport for a heavyweight match against a famous YouTuber?

Helen Housby plays for which Super Netball team?

Roland-Garros is another name for which Grand Slam tournament?

10. Which Austrian player announced they were retiring from professional tennis after suffering a wrist injury?

11. Which team has the first overall selection in the 2024 NBA draft?

Bowler James Anderson has taken 700 wickets playing for which national cricket team?

Australians Ziggy Mackenzie and Dane Henry recently won world junior championship titles in which sport?

14. How many NBL teams did the late Corey 'Homicide' Williams play for?

15. Inaugural Tasmania Football Club CEO Brendan Gale played 244 games with which VFL/AFL club?

16. Which tennis professional was struck on the head by a water bottle while signing autographs at the 2024 Italian Open?

17. Stormy the Ice Hog is the costumed mascot for which NHL team?

18. Which Central American country hosted the 2024 ISA World Junior Surfing Championships?

19. How many games did the Detroit Lions win during the 2008 NFL season?

20. Mike Budenholzer is the latest head coach of which NBA team?

21. Which two teams played out a draw in Round 9 of the AFL?

22. Former South African cricket captain Johan Botha is the new head coach of which Australian state team?

23. In which year did Rome host the Summer Olympics?

24. Which club finished on the bottom of the 2023-24 English Premier League table?

25. How many times did Mick Doohan win the 500cc world motorcycle championship?

26. And his son Jack is the reserve driver for which Formula One team?

27. Which British Army officer, who shares his name with a UK prime minister, is credited with having invented the game of snooker?

28. Which A-League Women player holds the record for both most goals and most appearances?

to play his final Test in July against the West Indies?

29. Which US golfer holds the record for winning the most men’s major golf championships?

30. Which English fast bowler is set

Michelle Heyman

Doohan

CX-30 a winner for Mazda

By Alistair Kennedy, Marque Motoring

Launched here in late 2020 the Mazda CX-30 is a small-medium SUV that squeezes into the space between the company’s original SUVs, the compact CX-3 and the mid-sized CX-5.

Between them, these three vehicles accountedforjustoverhalfoftotalMazdasales in 2023 and were a major factor in the brand being locked solidly into second place behind Toyota in total sales.

CX-30 was given a minor upgrade in late 2023 that included improved connectivity and fuel efficiency, together with a new model grade, the GT SP.

The CX-30 now comes with five equipment levels, in ascending order: Pure, Evolve, Touring, GT SP and Astina.

Prices range from $33,290 for the Pure FWD through to $47,390 for an X25 Astina AWD. On-road costs need to be added.

Styling

CX-30 has quite a conservative design which is likely to appeal more to owners at the older end of the age-scale. The shape is similar to the Mazda3 hatch but 100mm taller with 25mm extra ground clearance.

Although technically an SUV it has a sporty profile that’s almost coupe like.

At the front there are swooping headlamps flanking a large black version of the current Mazda family grille with an attractive textured fill. All variants get daytime running lights, LED in the Astina, halogen in the others.

The new GT SP gains a sleeker, more sporty appearance with exterior styling enhancementsintheformofblackalloywheels, a black front grille and mirror caps finished in piano black.

The entry-level CX-30 Pure comes with 16-inch alloy wheels, all higher-grade models roll on 18s.

Outthebacktherearewraparoundtail-lights, small roof spoiler, twin exhaust pipes and black plastic in the bumper.

Nine colours are available, five of them metallic are costed options.

Interior

The quality of the cabin has taken the CX-30 to a new level. The driver benefits from a high seating position and auto dimming rear-view mirror. The leather-clad steering wheel offers a comfortable grip, plus paddle shifts and the air vents are angled to the driver, servicing the dual zone air-conditioning.

Versatilestorageincludesagood-sizedcentre console, and a space below the fascia thanks to theuptakeofanelectricparkingbrake,plusbig door bins.

The dashboard isn’t as expansive as others in the segment but is well laid out and easy to read.Welovethefactthatitresistedthecurrent trend of locating almost all controls in screens by the use of physical knobs for adjusting air conditioning and audio.

Pure and Evolve have manual black cloth seats. The others have two different grades of leather (black and burgundy) and 10-way power adjustment.

Versatilestorageincludesagood-sizedcentre console, and a space below the fascia thanks to theuptakeofanelectricparkingbrake,plusbig door bins.

In the back, CX-30 has good headroom but legroom for taller passengers could be a problem. The smallish centre-rear seat is not unusual in this size class in that it’s hampered for footroom by the central tunnel.

There are air vents and a fold-down centre armrest with twin drink holders.

Bootspaceis317litreswiththerearseatbacks folded. A space-saver wheel is stored under the boot floor.

Engines/transmissions

CX-30 offers either a Skyactiv-G 2.0-litre, or Skyactiv 2.5-litre petrol engine, mated with a six-speed Skyactiv automatic transmission, plus front-wheel or all-wheel drive.

RATINGS Looks: 7/10

Performance: 8/10

Safety: 9/10

Thirst: 8/10

Practicality: 8/10

Comfort: 7/10

Tech: 8/10

Value: 8/10

The 2.0-litre Skyactive-G 2.0 generates 114 kW at 6000 rpm and 200 Nm at 4000 revs is available with all spec levels apart from the Touring SP.

Two variants, the Evolve G20e M and X20 Astina e-Skyactiv are mild hybrids and share the G 2.0 engine with a 24V lithium-ion battery.

The larger Skyactiv-G 2.5 engine has a 2.5-litre capacity with outputs of 139 kW at 6000 rpm and 252 Nm at 4000. It is available in the FWD or AWD Astina spec-level as well as Touring and Touring SP, AWD only.

The previous entry-level Pure came with a six-speed manual gearbox option but that was dropped with the latest upgrade and all models now have a six-speed torque converter automatic.

Infotainment

The top spec Astina and GT SP variants each get a 10.25-inch colour display. All below have an 8.8-inch centre screen. Note that neither is a touchscreen but rather the control system uses a rotary dial and accompanying buttons, situated on the centre console.

It’s large enough and within easy reach of the driver to minimise the amount of time taken away from looking at the road ahead.

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are wired in the Pure and Evolve, wireless in all other models. Likewise, there are USB-A ports in Pure and Evolve and USB-C ports and wireless charging above.

Satellite navigation is standard across the CX-30 range.

Safety

Mazda has a long-standing and admirable focus on safety and this continues in the CX-30 which achieved one of the highest ANCAP crash scores to date, with 99 per cent in adult occupant protection.

All variants come with a comprehensive list of safety features including seven airbags (now with a driver’s knee bag), autonomous emergencybrakinginbothforwardandreverse, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control with stop/go, lane-keep assist, traffic sign recognition, rear parking sensors, reversing camera, advanced speed assist system and IsoFix child seat anchorages.

The higher-spec models add a 360-degree view monitor, cruising and traffic support (traffic jam assist), front cross-traffic alert, driver monitoring and front parking sensors.

These latter features are available in other variants with an optional Vision Technology Pack.

Driving

Entry is relatively easy and the seats are supportive and comfortable. The steering wheel is height and reach adjustable and, even in the base level Pure, has leather wrapping as does the gear lever.

The 2.0-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine in our test Evolve lacks sharpness of the a turbocharger in the at 2.5 although the six-speed automatic worked well and had the SUV country cruising with confidence.

The new-generation Skyactiv Vehicle Architecture contributes towards excellent ride

quality and interior sound levels. Coarse-chip surfaces do increase noise levels although not to the same extent as others in this class.

Handling is accurate and the steering wheel provides the right amount of feedback.

Cornering is accurate enough, but this is not a sports sedan, and is certainly not claiming to be one.

Fuel consumption on our test route sat in the nine to ten litres per hundred kilometres in suburban, motorway and rural segments. It dropped to just over the claimed 6.5 L/100km.

Summing up

The CX-30 was the first Mazda model to adopt the two-digit suffix which was introduced to highlight the brand’s aim of pushing into the premium segment and competing against the big-name Europeans. It has subsequently been joined by the similarly-sized MX-30 together with CX-60, CX-70, CX-80 and CX-90 larger SUVs.

The CX-30 is a pleasant car to ride in and to drive. It’s built to Mazda’s usual high quality with a semi-premium feel, neat styling and, though not the cheapest in its class, offers good value for money.

It also achieved one of the highest ANCAP crash scores to date, achieving 99 per cent in adult occupant protection.

Like all new Mazda vehicles, the CX-30 comes with a five-year/unlimited kilometre warranty, as well as five years of Mazda Premium Roadside Assistance. Service intervals are every 10,000km or 12 months, whichever comes first.

The CX-30 is a pleasant car to ride in and to drive. (Pictures: Supplied)

There was plenty of action on the sporting fields on Saturday and Star Weekly photographer Ljubica Vrankovic was out shooting some of the football, netball and soccer action.

Action from around the grounds

1/ William Thornton-Gielen. 09292_19

Michael Sdregas. 409297_02

Lachlan Evans and Dean Halliwell.

Lions against Coburg Districts. 409288_06 7/ Melton Centrals against Kyneton. 409292_39 8/ Balmoral in action. 409297_04 9/ Marcus D’Angelo. 409294_04

Suns find their strengths and start clicking well

TheSunshaveexceededtheirownexpectations early in the Western Football League women’s season.

The only new team in the women’s competition, the Suns have shown early on they could be a contender, having knocked off the previously undefeated Werribee Centrals.

Suns coach Leanne Meyer said she’s thrilled with how things have gone so far.

“We’ve got players from various clubs and players that have never played before,” she said. “They are getting to know each other which is one thing and then learning to play football with each other is another.

“It’s about finding the strengths and weaknesses. It has been great.”

With a 5-2 record, Meyer, who previously coached Point Cook Centrals in the competition, said she had been surprised by

their start.

She said with having one division, it opens upopportunitiesfromplayersofallabilitiesto get their opportunities.

“The wins are a reward for the girls, but we just want to go out there and play football and

play it in the right way,” she said.

“We’ve got a big playing squad. At times we’ll give some of the lesser established players some more opportunities to upskill while some of the more experienced players have a rest.

“Having high numbers and being able to upskill is a real positive.”

Meyer said while she would like the side to play finals, the first focus for the group was to ensure that they continue to grow as a group.

“On and off field we’re looking to build on that connection,” she said. “You don’t have anything without connection.

“We know that we could create our own narrative this year. For everyone we need to build the connection and make sure that it doesn’t end here as we have a few results.

“But yes, I would like to make finals.”

407988_03

Werribee marks new era

By Tara Murray

Werribee is embracing the start of a new era in the Hockey Victoria men’s Vic league 1 competition.

After a competition restructure and a number of things beyond their control in the off season, the Tigers are win less after seven rounds.

Coach Brendan Denning said they were expecting it to be a tough season, which is proving to be.

“I was open with the guys at the start of the season,” he said. “The bottom three teams last season got relegated and we were the fourth bottom team, so we were starting at the bottom of the ladder.

“There’s been a few other things out of our control that we weren’t expecting. Our first keeper did his ACL in a non-hockey incident and our second keeper has had a health scare and only trained once this season,

“One of our best players Ben Toogood got sick of the travel and is now playing premier leaguewithDoncaster,whichissevenminutes

from home.

“My twos coach had a career change and is unavailable to come out to Werribee as well.

“It’s been a great experience for me.”

Denning said all the hiccups don’t explain the tough start on field, but give some context to where the club is at.

He’s taking the positives out of it all and sees it as an opportunity moving forward.

“We’ve taken a step back and playing a different style,” he said. “We’ll look to rebuild for one or two years and focus on longer term success.

“We had a couple of older guys step back and maybe play part time in the thirds. It’s an opportunity.

“I know what I know with the group and in terms of our position in the competition as well.”

Denning said they had fielded their second side full of younger players, with the majority of them 14 or 15.

He said while they would be disappointed with their results, he can’t argue with the growth and improvement he has seen.

The Suns faced Wyndhamvale. It was another bit win for the Suns, winning 19.10 (124)-2.2 (14).

Mandy Seath kicked six goals for the Suns, while Madeline Johnson kicked five. Johnson was named best on ground. For the Falcons, Rachael Burton was named their best.

Meyers said it could be a local rivalry that is built and is expecting another challenge. The Suns sit second and Wyndhamvale is in seventh.

In other matches, Werribee Centrals claimed the points after Parkside Spurs forfeited, Caroline Springs had a 150 point win against Laverton and Yarraville Seddon had a big win against North Sunshine.

Sports shorts

VPL

Werribee City had to settle for a draw with Caroline Springs George Cross in the Victorian Premier League 1 competition on Friday night. Neither side was able to score in the first half with both players having a player sent from the field during the game. Both sides were able to convert penalty goals to finish locked at 1-1. Ko Sawada was the goal scorer for the Bees. The Bees sit in 13th with 12 points, having claimed points in their last four matches.

FV

Truganina Hornets got their first win of the FV state league 4 west season on Saturday. Facing Bell Park, the Hornets led 1-0 at half time. They were able to double the lead in the second half to come away with a 2-0 win. The win moves the Hornets to 10th. Meanwhile, West Point had a 2-0 win against Barnstoneworth United. In state league 2 north-west, Hoppers Crossing had a 1-1 draw with Mill Park. It was the Reds second point of the season.

GDFL

It was a good day for Werribee Centrals in the Geelong and District Football League on Saturday. Facing Thomson, the Centurions were able to build a lead throughout on the way to a 20.12 (132)-8.10 (58) win. Carmelo Saliba kicked six goals for the Centurions, while Daryl Chesterman was named their best. After eight rounds, the Centurions sit in third spot, only one game off top.

GDNL

Denning has also been looking at new ways to try and attract people to the club.

“I’ve found it hard to attract Melbourne-based players to Werribee, especially with a couple of premier league clubs in Footscray and Altona in our region.

“I’ve looked to tap into the Kiwi and the SouthEastAsianpopulation,whichhasahigh population in Wyndham.”

Denning has also taken on the head of hockey role at Westbourne Grammar and is starting to see a connection grow between the two.

Denning said on field their first side had been competitive.

“We’ve played two teams that have come down from premier league and some top four teams from last year.

“Everyone presents a challenge. We’ve been close by there’s been no cigar, which has been the hardest thing.

“We just can’t forget how to win.”

Werribee was in action on Saturday and suffered a 4-0 loss to the Melbourne Sikhs United.

Werribee Centrals had it two in a row with victory against Thomson in the Geelong and District Netball League on Saturday. After a slow start to the season the Centurions are slowly building. On Saturday, they beat Thomson, 44-35. Brigitte Ardossi shot 35 goals for the Centurions, while Natasha Dimkovski was named their best. Star defender Amanda O’Malley also made a return to the court. The Centurions move to sixth with the win.

FOR MORE SPORT, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au

Tara Murray

Madeline Johnson (Suns FC/Kumarsmedia)

It’s been a tough start for Werribee. (Ljubica Vrankovic)

Undermanned Bulldogs battle through for win

An undermanned Point Cook came away with its best win of the season on Saturday against Caroline Springs.

The Bulldogs entered the Western Football League division 1 clash missing half of their best side.

They then lost two of their younger players duringthegame,leavingthemlowonrotations.

The Bulldogs though were able to do enough to come away with the win, 13.8 (86)-7.20 (62).

BulldogscoachClaySmithsaiditwasareally good win.

“We weren’t sure how it would go,” he said. “We had a fair few changes the last couple of weeks,” he said.

“It was a really pleasing result with a fair few boys out at the moment. We had to fight and scrap, so to run away with it was really pleasing.”

Smith said the match was really contested

early one with the Lakers inaccuracy keeping the score close.

Itthenopenedupabitlateandtheywereable to have an impact.

Michael Cilmi kicked five goals as a small forward in a pleasing performance according to Smith. He said Lochlan Allen really stepped up in the ruck in the absence of Daniel Burton, who has done an ACL, and Paul Tsapatolis ,who is a bit sore.

“He becomes another midfielder,” Smith said. “He was huge for us.”

The win was the Bulldogs third of the season and evens the ledger after seven rounds.

With a match on the King’s Birthday weekend,theBulldogshaveabyethisweekend.

Smith said it couldn’t have come at a better time.

“We had six players have fitness tests before the game and only three got through,” he said.

“The other three will hopefully be back next week. There’s another couple that will come back after that.”

Smith said what had been really pleasing for him was seeing the side play a strong brand of football despite so many players being out.

“We’ve been playing footy the way we want to play the last three weeks which is really pleasing.”

In other results, Point Cook Centrals lost to Spotswood, 15.6 (96)-9.15 (69).

The Woodsmen got the jump early and that was the difference in the game.

Hoppers Crossing continued its good form, beating Parkside, 11.12 (78)-10.9 (69).

In division 2, Wyndhamvale beat North Sunshine by 233 points, the Suns lost a thriller to Braybrook and Tarneit was held scoreless against Albion.

Gorton’s talent on show

By Peter Howe

Fifteen-year-old Ruby Gorton claims she was indoctrinated and had no choice but to play hockey because her parents were both hockey players and more recently coaches

It meant she spent endless hours around hockey clubs.

“I think I have karma on my side now with my parents spending their time taking me to club, regional and state training,” she laughed.

“I tried swimming and dancing but really, they had no chance of succeeding, I was ultimately passionate about playing hockey.

“I was four years old when I first picked up a stick.DadwascoachingsoIeithersatinthecar bored or I picked up a hockey stick and played around.”

Gorton played her first competitive game when she was eight where there was just one other girl in the team.

“It made me very competitive because the boys wouldn’t pass to us, so we had to outperform them to get a starting position.”

Gorton’s skills blossomed in 2019 when she was selected in the School Sport Victoria under-12 team and the regional team, the Western Wildcats under-13s.

There were nearly 100 players trying out for the state team.

Gortonhasnowbeenselectedinthoseteams every year including the 2024 where the teams were recently announced.

“This year I have been selected in both the under016 outdoor and indoor teams, and with changes in selection criteria I have made the under-15outdoorteamtoplayattheAustralian Games at the Gold Coast in June.”

Gorton believes it was her close stick control and determination that lead to her selection in those teams.

“I play as an attacking midfielder,” she said. “I love scoring goals, over 100 to date. My level of fitness is also critical to my role.

“I have a personal best of seven minutes 30 seconds for 2km and a 2.35 for 800 metres and was recently named the ICCES [Independent Country Co-Educational Schools] under-16 champion at Lakeside Stadium.”

Gorton has been selected in Footscray’s women’s premier league team since she was 13, playing against women who are more than double her age, many of whom have Olympic representation.

Gorton also plays indoor hockey.

“Many state level players also play indoor,” she said. “It is a different game, faster and has a higher level of involvement on a smaller field. “It’s very different, I probably prefer outdoor ifIhadtomakeachoice.Ipreferthepatternsof running in the outdoor game.”

Gorton is a naturally gifted leader. From her early years she has been in team leadership roles, including captain and vice-captain capacityinstate,representativeandclubteams.

She said she enjoys being a role model.

“I want to be an inclusive leader and love being able to bring players together for a common goal.”

Gorton spends much of her week involved in hockey. She umpires on Saturdays, attends an elite support program while working on her strength and conditioning three times a week.

There’s also training for state teams, training for juniors and seniors at Footscray.

Living in Eynesbury and going to school in BacchusMarsh,itmeansalotoftimeinthecar.

“Iofteneat,sleepandcompletemyhomework [in the car]”

Gorton puts her success down to a couple of things, one, the work she does away from structured hockey training by focusing on

Wyndham’s night out

Wyndham did a demolition job against the Hume City Broncos in the Big V women’s state championship on Saturday night.

Playing at home, Wyndham jumped out to a 14 point lead at quarter time, before a 24-8 second quarter increased the lead to 28 points at the main break. There was no letting up in the third quarter, with Wyndham extending the lead to 36 points at the final break.

While the game was over, Wyndham still finished strongly with a 40-13 final quarter to seal a 121-46 win.

Wyndham shared the minutes, with everyone playing at least 14 minutes, while no one played more than 27.

Everyone got on the scoreboard led by Lauren Jones, who scored 28 points.

Wyndham remains on top with nine wins from its first 10 matches.

Wyndham faces the Sherbrooke Suns and McKinnon Cougars this weekend.

In the men’s side, Wyndham came away with two thrilling wins.

On Saturday night, Wyndham beat the Broncos, 104-100.

Wyndham led by eight points at quarter time before nothing separated the teams the next two quarters.

The Broncos came late, but Wyndham did enough to hold on.

Troyce Manassa top scored with 27 points.

On Sunday, Wyndham had to come from behind against the Keysborough Cougars.

her fitness and the second is the coaching she receives from her Hockey Victoria High Performance coaches, Mitch Hayden and Milagros Arrotea.

Gorton has her sights clearly set on the 2032 Olympics.

“Idohavesomeoptionsthough,Iwasbornin EnglandandIcanalsorepresentScotland,”she mused. “I would love to play in a professional hockey league when I finish school. There are leagues in the Netherlands and India now, who knows in the future.”

Gorton is the June Don Deeble award nominee.

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

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

Wyndham was 14 points down at half time. It dominated the second half to come away with a 94-91.

Darrien Herbert top scored with 24 points as all five starters scored double figures.

Wyndham sits top with one loss.

Ruby Gorton. (Clickinfocus)

Julie Brosseau. (Ljubica Vrankovic). 403555_03

Tara Murray Lochlan Allen (Ljubica Vrankovic) 405184_06

Strong performance by Tigers

By Tara Murray

Werribee produced its best performance of the Victorian Football League to demolish North Melbourne on Sunday.

After showing patches against Collingwood the week before, the Tigers found another level on Sunday afternoon.

They jumped out to an early lead and they were able to build on it throughout, winning 13.21 (99)-4.6 (30).

Werribee coach Jimmy Allan walked away pretty happy after that result.

“The boys played really well,” he said. “That was as complete a performance we’ve had this year.

“Inaccuracy in front of goal was the only thing that let us down. The match was pretty pleasing.”

Allan said the group had been keen to build on their good pieces from the week before.

He said everything clicked this week.

“We were able to do it for longer,” he said. “We started well and the midfield was right on top.

“The defenders were excellent and the forwards got opportunities in front of goals.

“There were plenty of options and we looked like scoring when we went inside 50.”

Allan said they were hoping their poor kicking in front of goal was just a one off. He said for the most part they had been pretty good with their accuracy.

“North Melbourne looked to take us further out than we would have liked,” he said. “We missed some of those and we need to try and get close in the coming weeks.

“Going into the week we were sitting fourth or fifth in accuracy in front of goal.

“We finished about 13th after the weekend. We still scored 99 points which is good, but we left a few out there.”

Hudson Garoni kicked 3.4 in the win, while Jay Dahlhaus kicked three goals as well. Allan said there were plenty of contributors

across the day.

“Nathan Cooper did the job on one of their key forwards [Tyler Sellers] and kept him to zero touches until the last minute of the game when he went into the ruck.

“Dom Brew was excellent in the middle and Jack Henderson was also really good. Jake Smith did his job and Matt Keast played well before getting injured.

“Cooper Whyte was good on a wing and Jack Riding and Riley Bice were good. There were plenty of contributors.”

Allan said it was disappointing for Keast, who was a late inclusion on the day for Angus Hicks, who was ill.

The other injury concern out of the match was Riding.

“He popped his shoulder out in the warm up when he slipped over,” he said. “We had a discussion if he was going to play and he was under no illusions that he was playing.

“We backed him in and he played well.”

It was a good day all round for Werribee with the club hosting its past players day.

Allan said it was really good to have the former players in the rooms after the game along with the players’ friends and family.

He said they couldn’t have asked for a better day.

Werribee sits in fourth spot after nine rounds, with six wins from its eight matches.

This week Werribee heads up to Gold Coast to play the Gold Coast Suns on Sunday afternoon in the grand final rematch.

“They had 19 listed players on the weekend,” Allan said. “They had a comprehensive win against Carlton.

“It will be like a mini final, it’ll be an exciting week and hopefully we can step up. The sides are quite different from the grand final.

“We still have a core group that played last year. I’m not sure if it will mean extra, to get one back.

“They’ll want to make a good account of themselves.”

Plenty of support for Werribee at its past players day. (Belinda Vitacca Photography)

Kobe Annand goes up in the ruck. (Belinda Vitacca Photography)

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