Star Weekly - Wyndham - 5th June 2024

Master of the pool

It would be fair to say that Erin Abson leads a busy life. She is a mum of two kids under five, a school nurse, and can be found in the pool at Aquapulse in Hoppers Crossing in the early hours of the morning training for her next competitive masters swimming event. Abson travelled to Darwin last month for the masters national titles, where she bagged an impressive six medals. ■ Story:

Court opening delayed

By Cade Lucas

TheopeningofthenewWyndhamLawCourts will be delayed after operational funding was deferred in the recent state budget, according to correspondence seen by StarWeekly

The $271 million court complex in East Werribee was due to open in March 2025, but inarecentemailviewedby StarWeekly, Court Services Victoria (CSV) executive director, major projects, Tony Michele, informed Wyndham council chief executive Stephen Wall that this start date was no longer possible. Having tried to reach Mr Wall by phone, Mr Michele wrote in the email that the CSV business case seeking operational funding for the new Wyndham Law Courts had been

deferred in the state budget on May 7.

“Asaresultthenewcourtwillnotbeopening as planned in March 2025,” he wrote.

“CSV will be working with the government over the coming months to determine when the new Wyndham Law Courts will open.”

Currently under construction behind the Wyndham Police Station on the Princes Highway, the new law courts are considered part of the East Werribee development and straddle the border of Treasurer Tim Pallas’ Werribee electorate and that of Point Cook MP Mathew Hilakari.

CSV is part of the Department of Justice and Community Safety, overseen by Attorney General Jaclyn Symes.

None were available to comment

individually, but a spokesperson for the government said that construction of the court complex was expected to be completed by November.

However, they were non-committal about when it would be operational.

“We are in discussions with Court Services Victoria on plans for the operations of the courts once construction is completed,” the spokesperson said.

Wyndham council was contacted for comment.

Wyndham councillor Mia Shaw, whose Iramoo ward takes in the new law courts, slammed the delay, saying it cast doubt on the whole East Werribee project.

“If the government has run out of money

to staff their law courts, how can we possibly believe they’ve got money for East Werribee and won’t sell the land for housing,” Cr Shaw said.

“This just shows the state government was never serious about jobs for East Werribee.” In response, a government spokesperson said the Wyndham Law Courts were “an enormous investment for the west,” but didn’t address Cr Shaw’s concerns about the broader East Werribee project.

The Wyndham Law Courts were first funded in the 2020-21 state budget to replace the existing Werribee Magistrates Court. Once complete the court complex will be the largest in Victoria outside the Melbourne CBD.

Erin Abson with all her medals won at Masters Swimming Victoria Championships and Masters Swimming Australia National Championships. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 409285_01

Council wants urgent road fix

By Cade Lucas

Wyndham council will seek an urgent meeting with the Department of Transport and Planning in an attempt to fix what it calls a ‘dangerous and congested’ part of Doherty’s Road affecting residents of the Creekstone estate in Tarneit.

In a motion passed at a meeting of council on Tuesday, May 28, council also committed to writing to Roads Minister Melissa Horne and Truganina MP Sarah Connolly, asking them to intervene in the matter.

Earlier this month, Wyndham council blocked Creekstone developer, Macson

Developments, from releasing any more parcels of land until it delivered a promised intersection and bridge at the estate.

Creekstone estate currently has just one entry and exit point at the intersection of Dohertys Road and Settlement Road, which residents regard as chronically congested and dangerous.

The motion moved by deputy mayor Josh Gilligan, included correspondence between council and Macson Developments about the developer’s obligation to complete an intersection between Edgewood Drive and Dohertys Road.

Cr Gilligan said this was to demonstrate

that council had done all it could to fix the problem.

“What this resolution does is it airs those documents in a very public fashion that demonstrates that we sought to enter into a communications plan in July last year that was ultimately abandoned by the developer because they did not get their act together in relation to the delivery of the Edgewood intersection,” Cr Gilligan said.

The motion also included a letter from the Department of Transport and Planning, refusing a request to provide temporary traffic lights at the intersection of Doherty’s and Settlement roads.

Mooroop Yarkeen wins Maggolee

Wyndham council’s public art project, Mooroop Yarkeen, has received a Maggolee Award from Reconciliation Victoria.

Wyndham mayor Jennie Barrera, said she was extremely proud to see the large-scale, 41-metre-tall mural on the façade of Holiday Inn Werribee recognised at the annual awards, which celebrate local governments working with First Peoples to advance reconciliation.

“It’s an honour to receive this award during National Reconciliation Week,” Cr Barrera said.

“This award is testament to a wonderful

collaboration between Wyndham City, artist Tommy Day / Jirri Jirri (represented by MAMAM), Bunurong Land Council, Koling wada-ngal Aboriginal Corporation, Wunggurrwil Dhurrung Community Centre, Holiday Inn Werribee, Pelligra Citinova and many project and community partners.”

Cr Barrera said consultation and collaboration were key to the success of the project, particularly the role Bunurong Traditional Owners and local First Nations communities played in the development of the artistic brief and public expression of interest.

“As a result of that collaboration, Tommy Day / Jirri Jirri was able to incorporate local themes and cultural perspectives, including our beautiful Wirribi Yaluk (Werribee River), sandhills and basalt plains, welcoming gum leaves,dreaming,Bunjil’sflightandcommunity coming together in unity. Mooroop Yarkeen is ahighlightoftheWerribeeCityCentreandhas become an iconic part of our streetscape and it’s something that we can all be proud of.” Cr Barrera said.

Details:www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/ mooroopyarkeen

Despite this, Cr Gilligan said the motion reaffirmed council’s commitment to working with the departmentto fix the traffic problems affecting Creekstone residents.

“Approving this tonight really makes clear that we want to work hand-in-hand with DTP to get this done, who has the ultimate authority to fix the dangerous and congested parts of Dohertys Road which has 10,000 vehicle movements a day. It is a very busy road for many, many thousands of residents,” he told the chamber.

The motion was passed unanimously.

Macson Developments was contacted for comment.

V/line parking patrols start

Parking officers will soon begin regular patrols around Wyndham Vale and Tarneit train stations.

Whilst V/Line is responsible for determining parking restrictions and the installation of signs at the stations, Wyndham council parking officers will be enforcing the restrictions, with temporary signs to be erected to notify commuters of the upcoming enforcement.

The patrols have been initiated by V/Line after the state government formally gazetted the two stations, with enforcement of parking restrictions set commence early next month and expected to be fully operational before the end of June.

Wyndham council’s director of city operations, Amanda Smith, emphasised the importance of these measures, stating that collaboration with V/Line had been essential in addressing the parking challenges at these stations.

“Our priority is to ensure parking around the Wyndham Vale and Tarneit train stations is orderly and accessible and by enforcing these regulations, we aim to enhance the commuting experience for everyone,” she said.

“Our aim is not just to enforce the rules but to educate the public and promote long-term compliance.”

Parking will also be enforced on public roads around the train stations, including parking too close to intersections and solid white lines, as well as vehicles being parked facing the wrong direction.

Drivers are also reminded that double parking, stopping in a no-standing zone and parking on nature strips is illegal and dangerous.

Community members can report illegal parking by calling 1300 023 411, visiting wyndham.vic.gov.au, or emailing mail@wyndham.vic.gov.au

Research project levelling field for multicultural athletes

Westernsuburbscouncilsandsportingbodies have partnered with Victoria University for a research project aimed at increasing the amount of migrants and refugees involved in local sport.

Wyndham Basketball, Volunteer West, Welcoming Australia and Brimbank City Council joined 66 clubs from 12 different sports across the west in collaborating in VU’s Change Makers Melbourne’s West (CMMW) project.

The three year research project led by

VU’s Professor Ramon Spaaij, Professor Brent McDonald, Associate Professor Fiona McLachlan, and Dr Carla Luguetti, involved clubsidentifyingbarrierstothemhavingmore diverse members and developing strategies to overcome them.

They include: hosting ‘come and try’ days in collaboration with community groups and producing club information in a range of languages; setting up youth advisory committees and gender equity policies to increase female board members and coaches;

the creation of much-needed supportive spaces for club leaders across different sports to share their experiences, learn from each other and from research, and improve their knowledge, skills, and confidence in driving social inclusion initiatives within their clubs and having zero tolerance to racism.

Project leader, professor Ramon Spaaij said the project was about assisting clubs that wanted to be more inclusive but didn’t have the knowledge or resources on how to go about it and as well as helping clubs identify

that they had a problems with inclusion and diversity to begin with.

“Processor Spaaj said a key to improving migrant and refugee membership and making sporting clubs more inclusive, was for them to be aware of the communities in the surrounding area.

“One of the things we worked on is to really understand your demographics. Be aware of the demographics of the area of where your club is and are not reflected in your club membership.”

Artist Tommy Day III and Wyndham mayor Jennie Barrera in front of the Mooroop Yarkeen mural in central Werribee which has won the Maggolee Award. (Damjan Janevski) 410802_01

A tiny solution to a big problem

Tiny homes providing crisis and emergency accommodationoncouncil-ownedlandcould soon be a reality in Wyndham.

At Tuesday night’s meeting of Wyndham council, a notice of motion, Demountable Homes for Crisis Accommodation on Council Land,movedbycouncillorRobertSzatkowski, was carried with majority support.

A report will now be prepared to identify vacant council owned land that would be suitable for hosting tiny homes and housing providers that would be interested in partnering with council for the initiative.

In moving the motion, Cr Szatkowski said building demountable homes on vacant council land was an opportunity for councillors to take meaningful action on a serious problem.

“We(council)alreadyhaveacomprehensive housingstrategyinplaceandthereisanagreed position within this council to consider using both land capital approved property for crisis accommodation,” he said.

Cr Szatkowski estimated there to be $142 million worth of idle council-owned land that could be used to host demountables and

Workshops for women

The health and wellbeing of Wyndham’s multicultural women will be on the agenda this Friday at Arndell Community Centre in Truganina.

The centre will host the first edition of the Unity in Wellness program, a series of monthly workshops aimed at improving the health and wellbeing of women, particularly those from multicultural backgrounds.

AninitiativeoftheAustralianMulticultural Women Association INC (AMWA) and supported by Wyndham council, the free workshops will be held on the first Friday of each month from June through to December.

AMWA chief executive Geet Garba said the workshops were a response to rising demand for health advice among women.

“This is very very important because we receivetwotofourcallseverydayfromwomen who need support and don’t know where to go,” said Ms Garba who pointed out that manynationalcharitieswithhotlinessetupto

provide mental health support, were so busy that it was often impossible to get through.

She said the Unity in Wellness program would give participants direct access to a range of health and wellness experts.

“We have a mental health nurse, mindfulness coaches and keynotes speakers who will be giving information on how we can build our mindfulness,” said Ms Garba, who added that women would also be empowered to help themselves.

“It will include activities where women will explore ideas of how they can educate themselves and build their careers.”

Each workshop will have space for 25 to 30 participants and will be open to all women, not just those from migrant and non-English speaking backgrounds.

“We are getting a lot of calls to involve males as well, but we’re starting with women and we’ll see how it goes,” she said.

Email helpdesk.amwagroup@gmail.com

Sparkling fundraising effort

Eight years old might seem too young to be considered a veteran at anything, but when it comes to competing in pageants, Hoppers Crossing’s Zariah-Lee Sealey is just that.

Zariah began participating in baby shows at just six weeks old and transitioned to competing in pageants when she was four.

“To help build her confidence and overcome anxiety,” explained Zariah’s mother Markita Williamson of why her daughter began competing at such a young age.

Itappearstohaveworked.Fouryearson,the Woodville Primary School student is gearing up for her biggest competition yet, the Miss Diamond International pageant to be held in Queensland on September 21 and 22.

Zariah has been named a finalist for the pageant which, like many others, contains a fundraisingcomponent.HermumsaidZariah is raising money for the #loveyourovaries campaign for ovarian cancer awareness.

“Her goal is to raise $1000 and she has currently raised $560 with the help of

provide badly needed crisis accommodation in the municipality.

“There is a glaring shortage of such accommodation in Wyndham. This scarcity forces our residents who are already in distressing situations to seek help outside our municipality.”

Speaking against, deputy mayor Josh Gilligan questioned the $142 million figure, pointing out that this assumption included land that was in no way suitable for demountables or any type of accommodation.

“The tip is included in that assumption,”

said Cr Gilligan.“I don’t think people want housing on the tip.”

The motion gained strong support though from Cr Heather Marcus.

“A beautiful girl I found the other day at Werribee South, was living in the bushes,” Cr Marcus recounted passionately before adding that if suitable council land couldn’t be found, she’d be happy to donate her own.

Cr Szatkowski’s motion was carried with only Cr Gilligan and Cr Adele Hegedich voting against. Chief executive Stephen Wall will present the report in three months.

family and generous individuals,” said Ms Williamson of Zariah’s fundraising efforts, mainly through a GoFundMe page.

Zariahisalsoraisingfundstheoldfashioned way, holding raffles, photo competitions, a recycling collection, and in a nod to her veteran status, selling some of her old pageant clothing.

All funds will go towards raising awareness of ovarian cancer.

Almost20,000Australianwomenarenewly diagnosed with ovarian cancer each year.

Ms Williamson said that while Zariah doesn’t have any family connections with ovarian cancer, any family member or friend she has could have the gene associated with the disease, making them high risk.

Even she doesn’t, Ms Williamson said her daughter needs no encouragement to raise funds for a good cause.

“Zariah loves giving back to the community.”

To donate: https://gofund.me/1d4322d6

A night of war stories, fumbles, and celebration of hard work.

Eight-year-old Hoppers Crossing girl Zariah-Lee Sealey is a finalist in Miss Diamond International and is raising money for ovarian cancer research.(Damjan Janevski) 410388_01

Australian Multicultural Women Association INC CEO, Geet Garba, whose organisation is running a womens health and wellbeing program in conjunction with Wyndham council.

(Damjan Janevski) 410298_01

Truganina station open

Truganina’s $5 million new fire station is now operational after an official opening on Saturday, June 1.

Members of the Truganina Fire Brigade were joined by Tarneit MP Dylan Wight for the opening of the Leakes Road base, which is fitted with a three-bay fire truck garage, a turnout room with change room facilities, a laundry and drying room and a new office space.

Sustainability has also been taken into account, with a 45,000-litre water tank, a rain garden that filters stormwater, thermal wall insulation, laminated safety glass windows and temperature-controlled rooms all included.

Along with the new headquarters, the Truganina fire brigade’s new rehabilitation vehicle was also unveiled at the weekend.

Able to seat four crew members, the rehabilitation vehicle will support the health and wellbeing of volunteers working for prolonged periods, or in hot and strenuous

conditions.

“The Truganina Fire Brigade is an integral part of this community,” said Tarneit MP Dylan Wight at Saturday’s opening.

“It’s a pleasure to officially open the new station and handover the rehabilitation vehicle to these deserving volunteers.”

The rehabilitation vehicle was purchased witha$94,000VolunteerEmergencyServices Equipment Program (VESEP) grant and a brigade contribution of more than $48,000,

The brigade also contributed $19,000 to construction of the new station, with the state government covering the rest.

The Truganina Fire Brigade has been operating for more than 80 years and currently has a total of 86 members, with 42 in operational roles.

The brigade responds to nearly 400 call outs annually, ranging from grass, scrub and bushfires, through to house fires, accidents and floods.

Briefs

Boy evades police

A 15-year-old boy from Hoppers Crossing has been arrested after evading police in an allegedly stolen vehicle in Tarneit. Police spotted an allegedly stolen silver Toyota Camry travelling south on Tarneit Road about 9.25pm on Sunday, June 2. With assistance from the air wing, police followed the vehicle as it continued through backstreets before it came to a stop in Lilyturf Drive and the two occupants fled on foot. The driver, a 15-year-old Hoppers Crossing boy, was located inside a property on Wilandra Drive a short time later. He was arrested and is expected to be charged on summons with handle stolen goods, reckless conduct, dangerous driving and other traffic offences.

Starbucks fire

Police are treating a fire which destroyed a Starbucks cafe in Hoppers Crossing as suspicious.Fire crews were called to the scene on Heaths Road, Hoppers Crossing, about 12.31am on Friday, May 31, after multiple callers reported loud banging and flames coming from the building. Firefighters arrived on the scene at 12.38am to find the Starbucks Drive Thru fully engulfed in flames. No one was inside the building at the time of the fire. The fire was deemed under control at 1.30am and no one was injured.

FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT

Web: starweekly.com.au

Wyndham Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Free Kinder:

your child will:

• learn language, literacy and numeracy skills through play, art, music and dance

• learn to express themself and make friends in a safe and caring environment

• build skills and confidence before primary school.

Contact your preferred kinder service or local council to learn about how to enrol for 2025.

Visit vic.gov.au/kinder

Tarneit MP Dylan Wight (left) Laverton MP Sarah Connolly (second from right) with Truganina Fire Brigade members at the opening of their new station on Saturday. (Supplied) 411246_01

Tarneit plan fails to save Rebels

By Cade Lucas

The game they play in heaven won’t be played in Wyndham after all.

At least not professionally.

Just two months after it was revealed the Melbourne Rebels could be relocated to Tarneit as part of a rescue package for the struggling Super Rugby franchise, the deal is off.

On Thursday, May 30, Rugby Australia rejectedarescuepackagefromaprivateequity consortiumandshutdownthestrugglingclub after14yearsintheSuperRugbycompetition..

In January the Rebels went into voluntary administration with debts of $23 million and

assets of just $17,300.

On April 3, a consortium led by former Qantas chairman Leigh Clifford announced they were in negotiations with A-League club Western United about sharing their facility in Tarneit as part of plans to save the franchise.

Under the proposal, the Rebels would train and play at the 5000-seat Ironbark Fields, before moving to the 15,000 seat Tarneit stadium being built next door.

Jason Sourasis, executive chairman of Western United and parent company Western Melbourne Group (WMG), welcomed the potential deal when it was first announced.

“The Western Melbourne Group’s vision has always been to host multi sports and create a

Crackdown on rubbish

A crackdown on illegal rubbish dumping in Wyndham has begun to pay dividends.

Wyndham council collected a total of 2202 tonnes of litter and dumped rubbish across the municipality from January to March, a 38 per cent decrease on the previous quarter.

The decrease coincided with the introduction of measures such as greater enforcement, increased use of CCTV in hot spot locations, and a fleet of rapid response rubbish removal vehicles.

“Our rapid response units were launched late last year and aim to keep our streets and open spaces tidy,” said Wyndham mayor Jennie Barrera.

“ThetrucksworkinzonesacrossWyndham to ensure we prioritise the removal of dumped rubbish and clean up litter hot spots.”

Despite the overall improvement, Cr

Barrera said the fight against illegal rubbish dumping was far from over.

“We have noticed an increase in litter dumping in February, which remains a concern,” she said.

“Wehavenoticedahigherleveloflarge-scale commercial dumping during this period, and we are committed to working with residents and our partners to stamp out this behaviour.

“Illegally dumped rubbish costs council millions of dollars each year – an unfair burden on all ratepayers. There’s no reason for residents to dump rubbish illegally when council has a hard waste service and recycling facilities and a refuse disposal facility.”

To report illegal dumping visit: www. wyndham.vic.gov.au/submit-customerservice-request

vibrant city underpinned by sports, education, health and wellness,” he said.

“We are proud to have created only the second rectangular stadium in Victoria that is built for both men and women and is already A-League and Rugby Union compliant.”

However, Rugby Australia were less impressedwiththeTarneitproposal,withchief executive Phil Waugh casting doubt on the suitability of Ironbark Fields as a Super Rugby venue at a press conference announcing the Rebels closure.

“We’ve been out to Tarneit, we’ve looked at the area of where the proposed development will be, the new stadium. We’ve been through every piece of detail of Western Melbourne

and Tarneit and the reality is there’s limited options that meet broadcast requirements in Melbourne,” Waugh said.

In a statement to Star Weekly following last week’s announcement, Mr Sourasis said Ironbark Fields had already proven capable of hosting elite sport and WMG were seeking to attract other sports and events to the facility.

“We are continuing these discussions with various sporting codes and we are set up to host any sporting code that plays out of a rectangular stadium,” he said.

“All sporting codes have varying broadcast requirementsandthereisnoquestionIronbark Fieldsmeetsalloftherequirementstocontinue to host A-League Men and Women matches.”

Tyre & Auto Service

Staying in the busy lane

By Cade Lucas

Erin Abson is a champion masters swimmer, but the 36-year-old’s most impressive achievement might just be finding the time.

“I train five mornings a week before work, so I’m up at 4.30 every morning and I have two gym sessions in the afternoons as well,” said Ms Abson who lives in Altona Meadows, is a member of the Laverton Wynyard Aquatic club, trains at Aquapulse in Hoppers Crossing and then works as a school nurse at Mary Mackillop Primary school in Keilor Downs.

Oh, and she’s married with two kids under five as well.

“A bit of an understatement but yes, very busy,” said Abson to StarWeeklyduring one of her few spare minutes.

It’s a busy lifestyle which has paid off.

At the Victorian Masters Championships in April, Abson took home four gold and one bronze, while in the national titles in Darwin last month, she bagged five silvers and a bronze.

At last year’s world championships she finished inside the top 10 in two events.

While Abson only took up competitive masters (over 30) competition a few years ago, she’s no novice in the pool

“I’ve always been a swimmer,” she said.

“When I was a teenager I was a competitive swimmer and then I had an injury so took up track and field and cross country and I came back swimming after my eldest was born and realised I’ve still got it.”

Abson nominates the 400 and 200 freestyle and 200 breaststroke as her preferred events and is currently training for the state short course championships in August.

After a well earned break, she’ll return to training for another crack at the world masters championships in Singapore next year. Retirement? Pfft.

YOUR NEW CAREER ... starts here

“Age is just a number, put yourself out there and have a go,” she declared. It’s a motto Abson certainly lives up to.

Werribee’s a top tourist spot

Werribee is one of seven towns vying for the title of Victoria’s top tourism town.

The Victorian Top Tourism Town Awards, which are hosted by the Victorian Tourism Industry Council (VITC), showcase the towns and centres offering exceptional and unique visitor experiences across Victoria.

Werribee, Ballarat, Bendigo, Echuca, Mildura,SheppartonandWarrnambool have been named as finalists in the Top Tourism Town Award.

The public can vote on which of the finalists is their favourite tourism destination until June 24. The winner will be announced at a special event on July 25 in Lancefield, with the Victorian winner to go on to compete at for the title of Australia’s top tourism town in Canberra on September 10.

VTIC chief executive Felicia Mariani said the awards are an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the most captivating destinations the state has to offer.

“As Victorians continue their love affair with their own backyard, it’s wonderful that these awards allow us to profile the amazing destinations and experiences that are on offer across every corner of our beautiful state,” he said.

“The awards showcase the value of tourism to our towns and communities and celebrate the diversity of our regional destinations.”

To vote, visit: https://www.vtic.com. au/toptourismtown/

Star Weekly seeks an enthusiastic Full or Part Time sales executive to work across our print, digital, social and online platforms.

Star Weekly is an independently owned company which prides itself on its long history of community experience but also its investment in the future.

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.

Kicking off new careers

Two Indigenous footballers are now kicking career goals with the Ison Road Overpass project thanks to a special partnership.

construction industry on projects like the Ison Road Overpass.”

“Jai and Keadin are gaining great experience from their work on the project, which will support their career aspirations into the future,” he said.

Applicants will need their own reliable vehicle for which we will provide an allowance. The position is salaried, plus we offer an open ended commission scheme.

Send your application letter and resume to: Advertising Sales Manager, Mandy Clark mandy.clark@starnewsgroup.com.au

The project has engaged with labour hire provider Yurringa, which has helped Fitzroy Stars’ Jai Burns and Keadin Ronnan secure valuable footholds in the construction industry.

Mr Burns is employed as a spotter, directing trucks on the site, while Mr Ronnan’s work ranges from labouring to plant operation.

Both are thriving as valued members of the diverseteamhelpingprovideWyndhamWest’s community with a vital link to the Princes Freeway.

Yurringasupportedthepair’semploymentin partnership with Major Road Project Victoria’s (MRPV) construction partner on the project, Decmil.

Decmil project superintendent Rob Crumpen supports Mr Burns and Mr Ronnan on the site with guidance and advice, partly informed by his own Indigenous background.

Mr Crumpen said he gets a lot of “job satisfaction from being able to help young Indigenous people successfully enter the

Established to help Indigenous communities overcome inequality and disadvantage, Yurringa aims to improve the prosperity of First Nations people through employment opportunities.

The Indigenous-owned-and-operated firm works with employers committed to diversity and inclusiveness, defining success as employees feeling safe and welcome at work.

Yurringa managing director Daniel Briggs said “Working with organisations like MRPV and Decmil, who are committed to fostering diverse and inclusive workplaces, is vital to our commitment of assisting Indigenous people achieve prosperity through employment”.

“Achieving positive employment outcomes whilesupportingemployers’socialprocurement objectives is a win-win for all Indigenous people involved and for our business partners who provide the opportunities.”

Erin Abson with all her medals won at Masters Swimming Australia National Championships. (Ljubica Vrankovic)_409285_05

Jai Burns and Keadin Ronnan on site at the Ison Road Overpass project. (supplied)

Get vaccinated to beat shingles

By Christopher Carter, chief executive, North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network

Here’s a bit of free health advice for older readers: you don’t want to develop shingles if you can avoid it.

Shinglesisthereactivationofthechickenpox virus. If you had chickenpox when you were young, the virus that caused it has been sitting in your system, asleep, ever since.

For about one in three of us that virus will wake up and make merry hell. Severity varies from person to person but even at its mildest shingles is decidedly unpleasant.

The disease can occur at any age, but it happens most commonly in older folk.

Thankfully,thereisatriedandtestedvaccine available which stops shingles developing. Called Shingrix, it is available free to anyone 65 or over, First Nations people 50 or over, and people 18 or over with some types of compromised immune system.

The vaccine is administered by your doctor in two doses, a couple of months apart.

Younger people can have the vaccine too, of course, but there are costs involved. It’s a good idea to talk to a GP about this.

The name of the vaccine – Shingrix – is important. A couple of years ago, this brand replaced a previous vaccine, called Zostavax. The old vaccine was safe and effective, but the newonecanbegiventoawiderrangeofpeople without making them feel a bit poorly.

The thing is, though, you can’t get a Shingrix vaccination for at least a year after receiving a Zostavax one – and you can’t get a free one for five. Your GP will be able to check this.

So, if you haven’t been vaccinated and you come down with shingles, how will you know and what should you do?

You can only develop the condition if you’ve previously had chickenpox, of course, but there’s always a chance that you had that and didn’t notice. Very mild chickenpox can happen, even in vaccinated people. Very mild shingles can happen, too –although that has nothing to do with how good or bad your chickenpox was.

last for several weeks. It’s a good idea to go and see your doctor, though, just to make sure.

With more serious cases, the initial tingling anditchingwillbeaccompaniedbyfatigueand headache, followed a couple of days later by a painful rash. In turn, the rash can blister and scab, which can lead to other infections.

Mild shingles will produce a slight itching or tingling sensation but nothing more, but it can

The worst of it will be over in about 10 days, but it can take weeks to properly go away.

It’s important to see your GP as soon as symptoms develop, to discuss treatments that vary from antiviral medications to over-the-counter painkillers, depending on severity.

At pretty much any level, though, shingles is unpleasantBeforeyouhavetosufferthroughit, talk to your GP – especially if you can get the vaccine free!

Shingrix stops shingles developing. (iStock/Sladic)

What happened to Alana Cecil?

Almost 28 years ago, 16-year-old Alana Cecil was found dead in Melton. Her death was ruled to be the result of a drug overdose, but that finding has never sat right with her family. Now a new podcast series is taking a closer look at what might have happened to Alana, as Tara Murray reports.

Peter Cecil has been living a parent’s worst nightmare,everyday,fornearlythelast28 years.

On November 10, 1996, his 16-year-old daughter Alana Cecil was found dead from an apparent drug overdose.

Police at the time said they didn’t think the death was suspicious, but that didn’t sit well with Peter.

Since the day Peter lost his beloved daughter, he has dedicated his life to find out what happened to his girl.

“I haven’t had a chance to grieve,” he said. “I go to the cemetery and talk to Alana.

“It’s been difficult and I’ve had to hold it in all of this time. I’ve missed out on a lot of things with Alana … To live with that and not share things that normal fathers do with their daughters.

“I was robbed of that and also the fact the worstpartaboutitwasthatshewastreatedlike an animal, dumped like an animal.”

Alana was found at a vacant house on the corner of Barrys and Stations roads in Melton. She had been out the night before with friends. Some reports said she was last seen in Brimbank, other people say they saw her at the Djerriwarrh Bonfire Festival.

There were drugs in Alana’s system and needle marks in both arms.

The autopsy report showed she hadn’t had drugs for three months beforehand, having successfully been through rehab.

Peter claims the initial investigation was botched. He said evidence was missed and statements from key people weren’t taken until years later and some never at all.

DNA found in and on Alana wasn’t matched to two men for six years and Peter said the autopsy report proved that she was raped.

One of those people, who was much older, was known to police and gave a no comment interview. The other said there was consensual interaction between the two.

Her belongings that were with her were never found and she was found near the house of one of her friends.

Thereweretwocoroner’sinquestsandothers delayed and postponed, which left the family with no answers and feeling that the system had failed them again. The first inquest gave an open finding which remains today.

A Victoria police spokesperson said a report was prepared for the coroner who determined the cause of death was heroin toxicity in a young girl with acute asthma.

Peter said there’s never been a criminal investigationandpolicesaidatthelastcoronial inquest that they didn’t think they would find anything 13 years down the track.

Peter said he missed the chance to seek and appeal, as he sought help for his mental health, which had deteriorated.

“Once I saw what was in the autopsy and toxicology report I needed to know what happened to her pretty quickly,” he said.

“I ended up chasing a lot of people and doing the investigation [for the police] which I shouldn’t have been doing.

“I put myself in a lot of jeopardy. The system has failed the family and Alana.

“As a father and a normal person in the community, the communication [from police] was shocking.”

A Victoria Police spokesperson said the matter has been investigated by detectives and reviews of the investigation have found it was thorough. Theysaidallegationsofwrongdoing by the detectives were unsubstantiated.

Peter has spent the past 28 years searching for answers, most of that alone.

But not anymore.

Earlier this year, podcaster Ryan Wolf was looking for a top for his next series of Guilt, which looks at unsolved crimes.

HereceivedanemailaboutAlana’sstoryand it stuck with him.

“I was struggling to find a case to pick up, formepersonallyIemotionallyinvestsomuch into a case,” Ryan said.

“People had sent through tons of cases to lookatandIknewIwantedtodoanAustralian case, for some reason this particular case … it just connected with me.

“It was such a young girl and clearly something wasn’t right here.”

Ryan quickly made the trip to Australia from New Zealand and headed to Melton, a place he had never heard before.

He said there was a lot that had surprised him as he started to investigate the case.

Ryan, like Peter, has found there are “definitely” holes in the work that the police have done.

He said that Peter has taken this all on his shoulders until now.

“He’s been amazing really, in a way it has ruined his life. He’s lost his daughter, he has just dedicated his life to trying to find out what happened.”

Episodes of the podcast are released weekly, with the eighth episode becoming available for free on June 3.

Speaking after the first three episodes had been released, Ryan said there had been people come forward with new information.

He has spoken with friends, family and those who spent time with Alana growing up. Some have never spoken before.

“It’s to give it a chance that there could be some justice for her after all these years,” he said. “It’s always good when people start coming forward, that is what I do this for, to make a difference, try and get a resolution.

“I have a new witness that they’ve never had before and it could change this entire case.

“It’s not just about making content for me, it’s about the investigation first, podcast second. There are some big revelations to come in this case and I hope more people come forward.

“I know there’s more people out there that know more of what happened.”

Ryan said he feels like he’s getting to know Alana even though he has never met her. He sawsomevideoforthefirsttimerecentlyandit was incredible to put a voice to her.

He said he wants to be able to do her justice and get the truth whatever that truth is.

Ryan started the podcast in February and said Peter’s research had made it a lot easier for him.

He said the podcast was an ongoing thing and dependent on what new information comes available, but at this stage expects it to be about 20 episodes.

“I want Australians and locals to have the podcastmaketheirbloodboil,”hesaid.“Think what if that was my daughter?”

For Peter, he’s hoping this podcast will finally give him the answers that he has been after.

And, he doesn’t want any other family to go through what he has.

“Hopefully I finally get a chance to grieve and have peace, I’ve never had peace,” an emotional Peter said. “It’s also for Alana getting her justice for that they did to her.

“Talking about it like this, is pretty hard for me. This is what has happened to me an my family, I don’t want it to happen to another family.

“How we’ve been treated by the system ... It’s been unfair, it should have been solved by now.”

The police spokesperson said if new evidence, or witnesses were located, detectives would make an assessment as to their value before considering next steps.

To listen to the podcast: https://open.spotify.

Alana Cecil, and inset, Alana as a child. Right: Podcaster Ryan Wolf. (Pictures: Supplied)

Police out in force over King’s Birthday long weekend

Operation Regal 2024 is a state-wide Road Policing Operation over the Monarch’s birthday long weekend period. It aims to increase driver awareness and journey planning, while reducing road trauma during this high risk time on our roads.

This 4-day Road Policing Enforcement Campaign will run from Friday 7 June to Monday 10 June 2024.

Road Policing Advisor Senior Sergeant Fletcher Pearson from Westgate Highway Patrol said the operation will be conducted throughout all operational Police Regions and Police Service Areas during the four days, using all available personnel from local road policing units, general duties, and other regional resources.

Police will be targeting the main causes of fatalities and serious injuries in crashes which are:

• Excessive speed

• Driverdistraction,&VulnerableRoadUsers (cyclists, solos & pedestrians)

• Restraint & seat belt non-compliance

• Fatigue

• Impaired driving (Alcohol and/or Drug) Police will be out in force both to educate drivers and to enforce road rules, with a view to preventing lives lost and serious injuries.

We’re watching your speed. Are you? Motorists are requested to stay within the speed limit, don’t drink alcohol or take drugs and drive, leave your mobile phone out of reach, wear your seatbelt and make sure you are well rested.

Fatigue is one of the biggest killers and is a major cause of the loss of life on Victorian roads. Drivers are requested to plan their trip, be patient and ensure that you take at least a 15 minutes break at least every two hours and don’t drive if you are tired.

Drivers planning to travel during this period can expect to see an increase in vehicles travelling on major freeways and highways throughout the state.

Road trauma isn’t just about the lives that are lost – it’s about the enormous impact on

the community, from the family members, to the emergency services workers who have to deal with these tragedies on a daily basis, to the police who have to deliver the devastating news to loved ones.

All the community has a responsibility and

a role to play in reducing road trauma.

RoadSafe Westgate Community Road Safety Council chairman Jim Giddings said it has been demonstrated time after time that speed is a contributing factor in most road crashes. Therefore stay within the speed limit and drive to suit the conditions you face.

Speeding affects both the risk of a crash happening and the severity of injuries sustained when a crash does happen.

Mr Giddings said to make sure you’re not putting yourself or others at risk on the roads, put your phone away where you can’t be tempted to use it, for example in the glove box or in the boot to avoid being distracted. He also said the work of his group along with initiatives like the Operation Regal during the 2024 Monarch’s Birthday long weekend wouldhopefullyreducethenumberofserious road crashes on our roads.

Heaskedthecommunitytoreportspeeding drivers to Crime stoppers number 1800 333 000.

“Holiday driving has its challenges and drivers should drive in the hours they are normally awake, take regular breaks to reduce fatigue and allow extra space between vehicles. Drivers need to adapt to the conditions of the road. The onus is always on the driver to suit the conditions they are facing, and that includes the quality of the road,” he said.

“If you plan to have a drink then plan not to drive, taking a big risk like drink and driving is just not worth endangering your live or the lives of other road users.”

Before embarking on any driving trips drivers should check their tyres, windscreen washers, brakes and lights.

Remember, travel so that you arrive at your destination safely and enjoy your King’s Birthday Holiday weekend.

DRIVING IS NOT A GAME!

Senior Sergeant Fletcher Pearson and Sergeant Justin Holland will be keeping an eye on motorists this long weekend. (Damjan Janevski) 407642_06

Werribee hosts We Are One Cup

Soccerplayersfromacrossthewesternsuburbs and across a wide range of nationalities and cultures came together late last month for the We Are One Cup.

Held in Werribee on Saturday, May 25, more than 100 players from various migrant backgrounds played in the tournament run by Reclink.

The We Are One Cup is part of the Reclink Soccer League which has been running in the western suburbs since 2018.

Originally designed bring together multicultural members of the western suburbs through partnerships with groups such as Wyndham City Council (Youth Services), Junubi Wyndham, YSAS, IPYC (International Peace Youth Group), and ARC (Acts of Random Kindness), the league has since enabled participants to enjoy free physicalactivityonaweeklybasisthroughthe

structured competition.

Reclink founder and director Peter Cullen said the soccer league and tournaments like theWeAreOneCup,werefarmoreimportant than who won or lost.

“Sport is a honeypot for the conversation and the thought around world peace, such a critical world issue,” Mr Cullen said.

“ And we really have to get our heads about around what it means to be human, what it means to be a part of humanity, what it means to find peace within ourselves and peace with each other. They will be the building blocks of a future because if we unite as a group, no world leader can initiate these things, if we’re strong enough as a population group. And it’s things like sport, as it was expressed before, the variety of nations, the variety of people, it brings us together.”

Auction Sat 22 Jun at 2:00 pm

As Advertised or by appointment

8th June 11.15am -11.45am

Reclink founder Peter Cullen (left) joins in the celebrations at the We Are One Cup on May 25.

(Pictures: Saxon Hansen)

Reclink’s Sam Wharton (back) with players and mascots at the We Are One Cup tournament.

The tournament was held at Reclink’s Sports Share fields in Werribee.

The We Are One Cup featured players from a broad range of nationalities and cultures.

One of many teams from across the western suburbs that competed on the day.

Two of the all male teams in action.

One of the female players in full flight.

Some of the more than 100 players who competed on Saturday, May 25.

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

12 words: Good 18 words: Very good 24 words: Excellent Today’s Aim:

Vitelotte, Laura and King Edward are all types of what? 2 Which metal are Olympic gold medals predominantly made from? 3 Es is the symbol for which element of the periodic table?

1930s Melbourne saw the invention of which famous chocolate treat?

5 The smallest bone in the human body is called the what? 6 Usain Bolt (pictured) holds the record for which two Olympic categories?

7 Banjo Paterson wrote what poem in 1895, which later became a well-known song?

8 Digitalis is derived from which plant?

9 The Benko Gambit is used in which game?

10 The character Don Quixote is known for attacking which object?

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

Werribee Jazz Club

Join the Werribee Jazz Club on the second 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, R’n’B and mainstream jazz. BYO nibbles, drinks available at moderate bar prices with complimentary tea and coffee. Located at the Werribee Bowls Club, Watton Street, Werribee. Entry $22.

■ Jenny on 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

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of St Monica’s College students Daniel, Seth, Natasha, Drew, Emilia and Isabella preparing for their Hairspray Musical. (Damjan Janevski) 409678_01

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

Seniors House of Fun

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

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

Seniors club

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

■ 0403 041 499

Diabetes Support Group

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

■ Bob, 0409 252872.

Hoppers Crossing Ladies Probus

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

■ 0408 123 669

U3A Werribee

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

Most classes-activities are held at Wyndham community centres.

■ Rick, 0402 299 220.

Lions Club

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

■ Jorge, 0433 566 575

Bingo for all

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

■ 9741 5525

Western Budgerigar Club

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

■ Don, 0414 975 862

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 7:00PM Tuesday evenings at St. James Church, Hoppers Crossing.

■ Chris, 0400 414 215

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

Two journeys explored on stage

The Bowery Theatre is set to host a thought-provoking performance this June withOuterUrbanProjects’criticallyacclaimed theatre work, The Audition.

This compelling production, inspired by the journeys of two young Iranian immigrant artists, Milad Norouzi and Sahra Davoudi, offers a unique and intimate look at the parallels between the audition process and seeking asylum in Australia.

Directed by Outer Urban Projects’ artistic director Irine Vela, The Audition delves into the uncertainties faced by both actors and asylum seekers.

“Inbothcases,applicantswaitwhilesomeone more powerful determines their future, often

basedoffasingleencounter.Theasylumseeker, just like the actor, is an expert at being patient with a force that keeps them waiting without having their hopes dashed,” Vela said.

When The Audition premiered in 2019, Norouzi and Davoudi were doubly displaced within Australia and on its stages. They now have permanent Australian residency and are enjoying their artistic pursuits.

Outer Urban Projects aims to connect new and established artists based in the northern Melbourne fringes. It provides an open door forcollaboration,whereartistlivedexperiences shape the content of the stories that it shares.

Norouzi and Davoudi didn’t have to audition. Instead, they were invited to create

The Audition in collaboration with Irine Vela and writers Christos Tsiolkas, Patricia Cornelius, Melissa Reeves, Tes Lyssiotis and Wahibe Moussa.

Vela said the Melbourne-metro tour of The Audition ends during Refugee Week, which this year has the theme of ’Finding Freedom through Family.’

“The Audition offers a sharp and insightful perspective into the protocols and powers that permit or veto entry into our country and onto our stages,” said Vela.

The Audition will be on at the Bowery Theatre on June 21. Tickets are priced between $18 and $30. Details: outerurbanprojects.org/ works/theaudition

Woodend’s Winter Arts weekend

Music, discussions, and fireworks will fill the streets of Woodend for the 19th Winter Arts FestivalovertheKing’sBirthdaylongweekend.

Running from Friday, June 7 to Monday, June 10, the festival program features a diverse rangeofmusicalperformancesanddiscussions at multiple Woodend venues.

Over 100 musicians will perform during the festival, which will showcase both local and international artists across several genres. The program includes Southern Spanish flamenco guitarist Paco Lara and dancer Deya Miranda Giner, Australian jazz great Paul Grabowsky, and twice ARIA-nominated Nat Bartsch.

For the piano enthusiasts, London-based pianist Piers Lane will perform a recital, and Woodend’s own Jacqueline Ogeil will lead

Accademia Arcadia’s ‘Early Solo Concertos’ on the Cristofori piano.

Ogeil is also the executive and artistic director of the festival, and said she is excited about this year’s line up.

“The quality and diversity of the program is evident in how well ticket sales have gone … withseveraleventsexpectedtoselloutoverthe next week,“ she said.

“Personally,Iamverymuchlookingforward to the performance of Bach’s St John Passion, which celebrates the 300 year anniversary of this great masterpiece.”

The‘Words&Ideas’programincludesaseries ofdebatesanddiscussionsfromaneclecticmix of speakers, such as immunologist and Nobel laureate Peter Doherty; journalists Gideon Haigh, Elizabeth Finkel, George Megalogenis;

and author0screenwriter Don Watson. Andrew Ford will reveal his latest book, and ABCRadiopresenterRobynWilliamswilllead a discussion on ‘Sex, Science and Singing’ with geneticist Jenny Graves.

“We’ve … included a feature on science as well as several talks which cover music in our Words & Ideas program – all of which promise to be entertaining and engaging discussions,” Ogeil said.

Fireworks will light up the sky at 6.30pm on the festival’s opening night, at a free and all-ages event at the Woodend Buffalo Sports Stadium.

Details: https://woodendwinterartsfestival. org.au/

Oscar Parry

Roar into the school holidays

Victorian kids can go to the zoo for free over the July school holidays and embark on an unforgettable journey back in time aszoosacrossthestatebecomeprehistoric playgrounds.

At Melbourne Zoo, visitors can venture along paths not normally open to visitors to discover 16 huge dinosaurs, their nests, and newly hatched young. For budding palaeontologists, there’s the chance to uncover a fossil in the sandpits, watched over by the mighty Tyrannosaurus Rex.

In an Australian first, Dinos at the Zoo will also provide unprecedented access to the deaf and hard of hearing community, withExpressionAustraliacreatingaseries of videos in Australian Sign Language (Auslan) to provide information on every exhibit, which is instantly accessible by scanning a QR code.

At Werribee Open Range Zoo, expect the unexpected as you encounter 14 awe-inspiring dinosaurs, smoking volcanoes, bubbling swamps, dino footprints, and unearth life-like dino fossils.

Within the Yarra Valley, step back in time along Healesville Sanctuary’s bushlandNatureTrailwhere16dinosaurs roam,orforthosewhopreferaguide,join a free walking tour with a ranger.

Entry to all zoos is free for children under 16 years on weekends, school holidays,andpublicholidays.Dinosatthe Zoo will be free with zoo admission and will run until July 14.

Williamstown Literary Festival is set to turn another page

The Williamstown Literary Festival is returning for another year to bring readers together for a weekend of literary celebrations.

President Hugh Jones said the festival aims to bring together readers, writers and book creatives of all sorts for a wide range of activities.

“We are aiming to have a big, wide breadth of sessions so that we can appeal to as many people as possible,” he said

Now in its 21st year, the annual celebration will host a range of activities through story-telling, author talks, panel discussions and writing workshops, all across two days.

For her second festival, program director Emily Westmoreland said she has included several specialist writing workshops and increased the number of children’s sessions among the usual trove of author talks and panel discussions.

“Willy Lit Fest is different from other Victorian literary festivals in that we acknowledge our unique seaside setting and create a program to celebrate that,” she said.

“The amazing Jawbone Reserve will feature in a session, as will the Yarra and Maribyrnong rivers, the local botanic gardens for bird watching and forest therapy, and Willy beach

itself for our now famous early morning swimming salon.”

Hoping to keep the festival as local as possible, Mr Jones said they have many local authors coming to speak.

“It was really important for us to have locally represented authors from the west come in,” he said.“ThebeautyabouttheWillyLitFestisthat its local, and it is one of the things that really guide us in the promotion of the program.“

Morethan60individualsessionswillbeheld at the Williamstown Town Hall from June 14 to June 16. Details:https://www.willylitfest.org. au/weekend-pass/

Southern Spanish flamenco duo Paco Lara and Deya Miranda Giner. (Supplied)

Williamstown Literary Festival vice president Lis Grove and program director Emily Westmoreland. (Damjan Janevski) 406538_01

(Zoos Victoria)

The Audition will hit the stage at the Bowery Theatre in St Albans on June 21. (Darren Gill)

SPORTS QUIZ

1. Which two teams competed in the 2024 A-League Men Grand Final?

2. Ukrainian boxer Oleksandr Usyk recently defeated which previously undefeated world heavyweight champion?

3. Brad Arthur most recently coached which NRL team?

4. Rival drivers Ricky

5. Which two teams competed in the 2024 NBA Western Conference finals?

6. Which two teams competed in the 2024 NBA Eastern Conference finals?

7. Which Australian swimmer is sometimes nicknamed The Big Tuna?

8. Which English soccer team

14. Which city is reportedly in talks with the NFL about hosting a regular game in Australia?

15. Australian golfer Min Woo Lee earned his nickname The Chef through his use of what three-word catchphrase?

16. Which two Premier League teams recently played a friendly match in Melbourne?

17. Which Australian NBA player led the league in blocks during the 2010–11 season?

18. What was the Super Rugby competition originally called when it first started in 1996?

19. Which 17-year-old recently became the youngest Premier League Darts champion?

20. What sport is the focus of the 2011 film Moneyball?

21. Three players from which A-League club were suspended after being charged over an alleged betting scandal?

22. Which Australian batsman was named man of the match in both the ODI World Cup final and World Test Championship final in 2023?

23. The famous motor racing venue Circuit de la Sarthe is known for which annual long-distance event?

24. Which Olympics were the last games to host artistic categories?

25. Which state won the first game of the Women’s State of Origin series?

26. What name was given to the infamous Ashes cricket series in 1932–33?

27. The King Charles III Stakes, a Group 1 thoroughbred horse race, is held in September each year at which venue?

28. In which year was the AFL Grand Final held at Waverley Park?

29. Which country has won the most gold medals in Olympic history behind the US and Russia?

30. Recently announcing her retirement from international soccer, Lydia Williams plays for which A-League Women club?

Ricky Stenhouse Jr.

Hybrid powering up down under

By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring

With a dim start to electrification of the automobile down under, due considerably to the snail-pace roll-out of charging infrastructure to keep up, many car manufacturers have doubled down on petrol/ electric hybrid models.

Latest switch-on is Hyundai with its new Kona SUV range consisting initially of internal combustion engine vehicles and totally electric powered variants.

The small sports utility hybrid vehicle makes use of a 1.6 litre petrol engine and six-speed dual clutch transmission with a 1.32 kwh battery pack and electric motor, designed to deliver a driving experience similar to a conventional ICE vehicle.

With an exceptional 3.9 litres per 100 kilometres fuel consumption (91 RON) on the combined cycle claimed by the maker, the full 38 litre petrol tank should give a careful driver almost 1000 kilometres of range.

As well as standard features such as AM/FM/DAB+, wireless Apple CarPlay/ Android Auto connectivity, Hyundai Bluelink with calendar integration, Over-The-Air (OTA) updates, USB-C input and Google Fast Pair Service for Android across the Kona range, the test car was specced up to Premium level.

ThisleveladdedBluelinkconnectedsatellite navigation, Bluelink live traffic updates, voice control, SMS playback capability, split-screen function and voice memo function. Options on Premium include wide-glass sunroof at $1500, metallic mica paint $595 and Light Shale Grey/Sage Green interior $295.

The Kona N Line Hybrid is covered by Hyundai’s five-year unlimited kilometre warranty, with battery warranty of eight years or 160,000 kilometres.

Styling

The Kona hybrid follows on the futuristic design chops of the all-electric variant. Standout features of the Neoteric (aka modern) Yellow test car included light strip front and back, twin alloy tipped exhaust pipes, N Line body-coloured cladding, N Line front bumper with gloss black front bumper insert, N Line side skirts and N Line-exclusive 18-inch alloy wheels.

There’sablackNLinewing-typespoilerand mirror caps, N Line rear bumper, plus N Line aluminium badging. Dual projector beam headlights combine with LED indicators, black beltline moulding and ‘seamless horizon’ centre LED positioning light.

Interior

With wider-opening doors, back seat space – 77mm more leg room and 11 mm extra headroom – is well ahead of the previous Kona. Second-row shoulder room (1402mm) is also among the largest in class.

Buttons and dials dominate the climate and drive mode controls, so it’s simple to hop into Sport, or adjust the climate. Stacks of storage space is partly the result of the lack of a transmission tunnel with its old-style T-bar gear lever, leaving room for an open centre console.

All-new Kona’s optional N Line pack interior offers leather appointed seating with Alcantara inserts, along with red highlights and N logos. There’s an N Line steering wheel, dark metal door handles, plus leather dashboard tray and highlights. Black headlining and pillar trims may seem a bit too gloomy for some.

The boot has room for 470 litres of cargo with the rear seat backs raised, blowing out to 1421 litres with the backs folded (almost) flat. A temporary spare wheel can be found under the boot base, which is height adjustable.

Infotainment

The Kona follows its Hyundai cousins with a version of the 12.3-inch dual-screen high-resolution full digital set-up. Pleasingly, climate control air-con is via a series of buttons and knobs on the centre stack, not the

touchscreen.

Over The Air software updates lets users perform remote software and firmware updates for key systems, without the need to visit a service centre.

Engines/transmissions

NewforAustralia,theKonahybridpowertrain combines a 1.6-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine with an electric motor plugged into a 1.32 kWh battery pack. The electric motor produces 32 kW of power and 172 Nm of torque, the combined system putting out 104 kW and 265 Nm. The package is mated with a six-speed dual-clutch transmission.

Safety

This is where the Hyundai SmartSense safety system comes into the picture with functions including autonomous emergency braking (with pedestrian and cyclist detection), as well as AEB rear. Also included are driver attention monitoring, blind-spot monitoring and assist, lane keep assist, safe exit warning, plus parking sensors.

And to help further in pedestrian safety,

the Kona Hybrid, with its almost silent powertrain, features a Virtual Engine Sound System which generates a futuristic sound for pedestrians to hear through a speaker at the frontofthevehicle.Afurtherchimeis‘played’ when the car is reversing.

There are seven airbags in Kona, including a front centre side airbag. Mounted in the left of the driver’s seat backrest, it can prevent or reduce the severity of injuries caused by coming together of front occupants, or collisions between occupants and the interior during a side impact.

Driving

The dash-mounted push-button start fires up theall-butsilentelectricmotor,tobejoinedby the 1.6-litre petrol engine, in an ultra-smooth transition at around 20 to 30 km/h when needed for optimum performance – a great help in town traffic.

It’s not the most powerful vehicle but a heavy-footed take-off can have the Kona’s front wheels spinning in the wet, trust me. Paddles behind the steering wheel allow the driver to get in on the action of the six-speed double-clutch tranny. Oh, and can deliver

different levels of regenerative braking. Claimed fuel economy is a miserly 3.9 litres per 100km on the combined urban/ highway cycle. On test the Kona accrued a fuel consumption figure of 5.1 litres per 100 kilometres over a week’s work on a range of road conditions.

Traffic sign recognition and warning sounds like a good idea but the Kona goes a step too far for my liking, not only issuing a visual warning but beeping too. Frequent changes of speed limit can come up with an incessant ‘one-note’ samba. More annoying than helpful.

Also, the system is inclined to pick up the speed limit of an on or off-ramp while still on the motorway and on test was wont to hold on to a car park 10km/h speed limit when the car was well on its way down the road.

Summary

With skinflint fuel usage without the worry of running out of ‘juice’ it’s a win/win situation with the Kona N Line petrol/electric hybrid SUV. Good looks, space and heaps of high-tech tackle add to the appeal, as does the $40K-plus sales price.

The full 38 litre petrol tank should give a careful driver almost 1000 kilometres of range. (Pictures: Supplied)

It was footy, footy and more footy for Star Weekly photographer Ljubica Vrankovic on Saturday. Here’s some of the action that she shot.

Winter football action kicks off

1/ Altona got a hard fought win against Parkside. 410694_16

Altona got a hard fought win against Parkside. 410694_24

Emily Kalos and Brooke Hards. 410706_16

Laverton’s Ruth Walker. 410700_12

Michael Luxford. 410695_10

Parkside Spurs had a big win on Saturday.

Thomas Stelluto. 410696_03

Werribee Districts got a strong win against Spotswood. (Ljubica Vrankovic)_410695_03

West Footscray fought hard against Sunshine. 410696_13

Mohamed called up for the world cup qualifiers

Werribee City’s Ismael Mohamed is living the dream having received a second call up to the Somali national soccer team.

After receiving his first call up earlier this year, the Bees star was called up to be part of the Somali team for two FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

Mohamed, who flew out last week, said it hadbeenacrazytimegettinghisopportunity to represent Somali.

“It was unexpected the first time,” he said. “I was overwhelmed and I was shocked.

“I didn’t think they would call me up again, but I was happy they did.

“I was stunned. I’m a father of three, a normal person, quietly going about my business.”

Mohamed has spent his life in Australia but his father is from Somalia giving him the connection.

Mohamed has been to Somalia, back in

2016. Mohamed said officials had started looking at other countries for players to strengthen their squad and with the National and Victorian premier leagues filmed and broadcast, Australia was on the radar.

“There was another guy picked from Australia and he is doing really well and put Australia on the map,” he said.

“They’ve started to keep an eye on Australia. They wanted to strengthen the team with some more quality.”

The Thomastown resident said playing soccer on the international stage was different from playing in Australia.

He said there were plenty of challenges like jet lag, travel and sickness, He started in two games previously.

“It was tough,” he said. “It was a different game speed and they are a lot stronger. We’re

playing against the best players from their countries.

“They were a lot more physical and quick. The coach started me in both games.”

Mohamed said the opportunity to help Somaliaqualifyforthefirsttimewasmassive. He said they wanted the whole country to get behind them and he wanted to help the country do well.

Back at Werribee, Mohamed said he was enjoying his first season at the club. He has previously played at Banyule City and Williamstown.

“They have been very welcoming,” he said. “They’ve been really good with the way they have run things.

“The way they treat me has been really good. We’ve had the new coaching staff come in and it has been really good.

“It’s been a good appointment as coach.”

Tara Murray

Lewis is bound for Paris

By Tara Murray

Taekwondo star Bailey Lewis is hoping to go out on a high after qualifying for the Paris Olympics.

The Werribee resident narrowly missed out on the last Olympics, but there was no disappointmentthistime,oneofthreeathletes named in the Australia taekwondo team.

Lewis said he was ecstatic to make the team.

“It was nice,” he said. “We had a fair idea for myself for the last two years now [that he’d make the team].

“I had good results and won the selections about a month ago. That was pretty much it.”

Lewis said qualifying for the Olympics was always a dream come true before he even knew which sport he loved.

“As long as I can remember with school projects I wanted to be an Olympian,” he said. “I didn’t even know what an Olympian was.

“I tried lots of sports as a kid. I saw a taekwondo demo at a shopping centre and I thought it was pretty cool with lots of flips and boards.”

While Lewis soon found out that isn’t what taekwondo was, he fell in love with the sport and has put in plenty of hours since to reach the Olympics.

He said at times it could be humbling but he gained more confidence as he went along.

“There’s lots of ups and downs as a junior,” he said. “I wasn’t the best at taekwondo, but I learnt a lot.

“In my senior years I’ve got some good results. I just missed out on the last Olympics which was quite heart breaking.

“I felt like I had a good shot.”

Lewis will compete in the 58 kilogram men’s event. He said this will be his swan song to competing in the sport despite being just 26.

Sports shorts

VTCA

Point Cook has lost Joshua Van Zyl ahead of the next Victorian Turf Cricket Association division 2 season. Williamstown Imperials announced that they had signed the solid batter and wicketkeeper as they make the move into division 2 next season.

VSDCA

Hoppers Crossing’s Fawad Ahmed fell just short of taking out the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association Val Holten Medal. The off spinner finished equal third on 20 votes, three votes behind winners Sahan Perera and Glen Parker. Fawad was named in the team of the year along with Werribee’s Johnathon Burton.

VAFA

Westbourne Grammarians got their second win of the Victorian Amateur Football Association premier B women’s competition. The CYs led at every break against the Old Xaverians but were never able to break away. The CYs were able to do enough to get the 4.8 (32)-2.11 (23) win. Morganne Gaston and Stephanie Fomekong were named the Grammarians best.

WFL

He said trying to keep that weight at his age was really difficult and meant he wouldn’t compete long term.

Lewissaidhewashopingtofinishonahigh. He will spent time in Europe facing his main competitors in the lead up to the Olympics, to try and get the best preparation he can.

“I’m hoping to medal,” he said. “I think that I’m good enough and have beaten enough of the past medallists.

“At the grand prix, I’m the only Australian who has medalled in two events.”

Lewissaidhewashopefulthathishometown would get behind him at the games. He trains at City West Taekwondo in Hoppers Crossing.

“My friends don’t know too many Olympians, they will brag about it,” he said.

“It’s nice walking down the street or at my sisters footy and they recognise me and say you’re Bailey.

“I still feel like a normal person.”

The Suns had a big win in the Western Football League women’s competition, but it was a tough day for Wyndhamvale. The Suns continued their good form, beating Yarraville Seddon, 8.6 (54)-1.0 (6). Emily Allan kicked three goals for the Suns, while Verity Cox was named their best. For Wyndhamvale, it was a long day against Parkside Spurs, losing 16.20 (116)-0.2 (2). Werribee Centrals had the bye. There are no games this weekend due to the long weekend.

VPL

Werribee City had a day to forget against Melbourne City in the Victorian Premier League 1 competition. It was mostly one way traffic in favour of Melbourne City, which won 7-1 after leading 4-0 at half time. The Bees sit in 13th spot, with two wins for the season. The Bees this Friday face Kingston City, which is three points ahead.

Ismael Mohamed. (Ljubica Vrankovic)

Bailey Lewis (Australian Taekwondo)

Clubs could die: Senior coach warns the WFL

Clubs could face death if something doesn’t change in the Western Football League, says one division 2 senior coach.

One coach has expressed that serious discontent is rife among its senior playing group, and said the 14-team division 2 structure is causing former division 3 clubs to lose more than just games on Saturdays.

He is the second coach to speak out about concerns for clubs and the competition.

“What the league doesn’t look at as well, no one wants to train before games against these top sides, so when Thursday comes along, you do team selection and are lucky to get half a dozen staying back, so you’re losing money behind the bar, you’re losing money with dinners,” they said.

“Then on Saturdays, after the game everyone goes home because when you lose

by 200, who wants to stay back and talk?

“We’ve got functions during the year, but morale’s dead so there’s no money coming in then as well, it’s killing clubs.”

The coach, who didn’t want to be named, said it has been hard to keep fronting up to training nights and game days, as it feels as though nothing they can do or say will change the fate when coming up against top tier division 2 clubs.

“I woke up on Saturday, I’ve got my bag, I’ve got my coaching stuff, and I just thought what am I doing?“ they said. “Like what am I even going to do as a coach?”

They said the merging of divisions has killed the league as being an option for top division club’s junior players seeking more senior football, as well as older players looking for a lower league to play in rather than retiring or moving into a super rules or

thirds competition.

In division 2 this season, the average margin per game is 102 points.

In matches between a side that would have featured in division 3 if the league didn’t restructure this season against a side that would have been in division 2, the average margin is 165 points.

Last year, the average margins in division 2 and 3 were 54 points and 71 points respectively.

As per a report sent to clubs late last year, the league said it understood that 2024 may be a teething period as clubs settle into the new structure.

“Following the club transfers of Deer Park and St Albans to the Essendon District FootballLeague(EDFL)attheendofthe2022 season, the league engaged an independent consultant to complete a thorough review

Tigers’ convincing win

By Tara Murray

Werribee Districts produced its best four quarter performance of the season to record a big win against Spotswood on Saturday.

Despite being undefeated in the Western Football League division 1 season, the Tigers had struggled at times to put teams away.

That changed on Saturday against the Woodsmen, with the Tigers claiming a 17.14 (116)-6.13 (49) win.

Tigers coach Chris Gilham said things they had been working on, had come to fruition.

“It was a pleasing win and we played pretty well and were able to get a bit of a result,” he said.

“We started much better, We haven’t started well for six or seven rounds.

“We were able to win the first quarter and we were good in the second good quarter and second half”

Gilham said they’d put a focus on their starts during the week and made changes to the way they had warmed up for games.

He said the more even competition played a role in other teams coming out strongly, more

so than what they were doing.

Gilham said his side won a lot of contested ball in the middle to put the Woodsman under pressure.

TheTigersledbyeightpointsatquartertime before blowing the match open in the second quarter to lead by 49 points at half time.

They continued the momentum in the second half.

Jack Bonnett kicked five goals while Michael Luxford kicked thee goals.

Gilham said they had a number of strong contributors.

“Lucas Rocci returning from injury was good as a mid-forward,” he said. “Jack Bonnett has a good as a forward.

“He’s stepped up to senior football this year and has been really good. Michael Luxford was good around the ball as well.

“Wehavealotofguyskickinggoalsandguys who are in the midfield are rotating forward and hitting the scoreboard.”

Last season’s premiers sit two games clear at the top of the ladder after seven rounds.

They have a week off this week with the King’s Birthday long weekend.

of the current WFNL football competition structure,” the report said. “This review was also instigated by a number of clubs who were adamant that significant changes were required to the divisional structure model. There was a large amount of feedback through both workshops and surveys that supported a move to a two division model of football with 80 per cent of the clubs indicating that this would be the preferred model for 2024.

“Furthermore, 70 per cent of clubs also indicated that the ideal number of teams per division is 10 and then the next highest response was 12 teams.

“We will also be able to reassess division 2 and potentially a Division 3 beyond 2024 upon further movement of clubs or teams.”

Gerald Lynch

Two teams to rep Wyndham

Wyndham will have not one, but two teams represent the association at the National Junior Classic this weekend.

Both teams will compete in the invitation-onlyevent,thatiscappedat16 teams per age group, with invitations to the classic extended to the top interstate teams and the highest-ranking eligible Victorian Victorian Junior Basketball League teams and selected Junior Country championships winning teams.

It’s the second straight season the under-18 boys have qualified for the tournament. They will be joined by the under-14 boys this year.

Wyndham coaching lead Lucas Allen said it’s the first time in recent memory they’ve had two teams qualifying in the same year.

“It’s a good sign of the continued growth we have.”

Allen said much of the under-18 team had been part of the team last season as bottom agers.

Theystillqualifieddespitelosingtheir best player Roor Akhuar to the Centre of Excellence at the AIS.

He said last year they finished middle of the pack.

Under-14 boys coach Andrew Hack said it was a pretty big achievement for the side.

Gilham said they would have taken that start at the start of the season.

“We had a lot of older players who retired and we didn’t go out and recruit,” he said. “We turned to what we had in the club and looked to improve.

“The competition has improved and we have to continue to get better. We’ve got away with some tight wins and it’s been a great effort by the boys.

“We’re under no illusion we have to get better after the bye.”

In other matches, Point Cook Centrals had a loss to Caroline Springs.

After trailing at quarter time, the Lakers opened by a 42 point lead at half time.

The Sharks were able to slightly reduce it in the third quarter before the Lakers finished off strong to claim a 15.13 (103)-5.4 (34) win.

Point Cook plays its round seven clash this Saturday against Yarraville Seddon, while Hoppers Crossing had the bye.

In division 2, Wyndhamvale smashed Sunshine Heights, the Suns had a massive win against North Sunshine, while Laverton beat Tarneit.

“Considering we started ranked at number 24 at the start of the season,” he said. “The top eight qualify and the rankings were off two years ago.

“We’ve played terrifically as a team and we’re absolutely stoked.”

Theteamhasbasicallyplayedtogether a couple of years ago in under-12s before being split through teams last season when they were bottom age.

They’ve added a couple of players to the squad from last time.

Hack said that Wyndham ran the same program throughout all their representativesideswhichmadeiteasier to go between teams from home to year.

He said heading to the classic there was a bit of an unknown having never played some of the teams before.

“To make the top eight would be awesome,” he said. “It’s a pretty big achievement to get there to start with.”

Tara Murray

Dillon Viojo-Rainbow is put under pressure. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 410695_07

Werribee gets some revenge

By Tara Murray

Werribee continued its good form, this time knockingofftheGoldCoastSunsinthegrand finalrematchintheVictorianFootballLeague on Sunday.

The Tigers headed up to the Gold Coast to face the Suns, in one of their biggest tests of the season.

The Suns, who had a side of majority AFL-listed players, started the better of the sides and led by three points at quarter time.

Werribee took a seven point lead to half time and a nine point lead at the last break. Three goals to two in the final quarter to lock in a 13.12 (90)-11.7 (73).

Werribee coach Jimmy Allan said it was nice to return home with four points in their pockets.

“The boys were really good,” he said. “They had a really strong side with 18 or 19 AFL-listed players.

“They challenged us in the first quarter and then again in the second quarter. We weathered the storm and fought back.”

Allan said they had large periods where they were able to control the game. He said their ability to fight back early in the match was one of the most pleasing things out of the game.

“They got out to a three goal lead,” he said. “Early in the second quarter we couldn’t get our hands on the ball.

“We were able to get back into it. There were positive signs with how we played for two and half quarters.”

Jack Henderson kicked three goals for the Tigers, while Hudson Garoni was the only other multiple kicker with two.

Louis Pinnuck led the way with the disposals, with 28. Henderson had 25 and Riley Bice chipped in with 23.

Allansaidtherewereplentyofcontributors again. He said the ability of the group to not rely on one or two players every week was one of their biggest strengths.

“Jack Henderson has built into some good form,” he said. “He kicked our first two goals of the game and finished with three goals and 25 disposals.

“The backline was good … Jesse Clark, Louis Pinnuck.

“Cooper Whyte has some good moments and Harry Grintell did a job on Brandon Ellis after he got away from us early.

“We had a lot of contributors.”

Allan said some of the guys that have come into the side like Whyte, Zac Banch and Flynn Young were coming in and doing what they are asking of them.

With a few senior players to come back in the side, Allan said they are making it hard for the selectors.

DalyAndrewsgotthroughanothergameat local level and will be available for selection this week

He said skipper Nick Coughlan wouldn’t be back until after the bye as they are cautious with his return given his importance.

“There is pressure on for spots which is a good thing,” he said. “We’ve in a position where we don’t have to rush those guys back.” Werribee moved up to third spot after the win, on the same amount of points as second placed Geelong and fourth placed

Williamstown.

Allan said they weren’t focusing too much on the ladder.

“We’re taking it week by week,” he said.

“Any team on their day can win with so many teams.

It offers quality recreational and retail opportunities and housing while celebrating the area’s Indigenous and cultural heritage – making it a dynamic destination of choice.

“Hopefully we play well and get some more results.”

The framework will be a guide for staged development in the area and for attracting investment over the next 30 years.

Werribee this week host Frankston at

Avalon Airport Oval at 2.05pm.

Frankston sits in ninth spot.

Allan said. “They are in the finals race as well

“They’ve played some really good footy and we have to be at our best back at home.

It will help to ensure the town centre meets the needs of the growing population in Tarneit with the centre ultimately providing a capacity of 8,000 jobs and a home to more than 10,000 people.

“They lost by one point on the weekend,”

“Going into the bye we wanted to play well in this period and be in a good position going into the mid season bye.”

Please register for an information session to find out more: • • Questions can be emailed to tarneitudf@wyndham.vic.gov.au and feedback shared on the Loop by 20 March on https://theloop.wyndham.vic.gov.au/tarneitudf

Cooper Whyte looks to take possession. (Ben Grimes)

Louis Pinnuck celebrates a goal. (Ben Grimes)

GROUP

The vision for a vibrant Tarneit is outlined in the draft Tarneit Major Town Centre Urban Design Framework which Wyndham City has released for community feedback. The Tarneit Major Town Centre is designed to be a hub of economic prosperity, that is beautifully designed with green corridors, and has the capacity to accommodate a centre for art, health and education.

TIPPING 2024

Simon Fenech Fruit 2 Work

Lourdes Piscopo Living Prospect

Chris Vines Werribee

Help at home

Get assistance with personal and clinical care, household chores, assistive technology and transport

Community support and wellbeing

Remain connected with social groups, outings, and carer services

Independent living

Enjoy connected retirement community living at Amarco Apartments in Kingsville

Residential care

Specialist 24/7 care and support, including dementia and palliative care and respite stays, at the safe and caring Manor Lakes Community in Wyndham Vale

Call the Uniting AgeWell team today to find out how we can support you to live well with choice, independence and peace of mind as you age.

783 435