Star Weekly - Hobsons Bay Maribyrnong - 26th June 2024

Women’s Health Matters

Star Weekly is shining a light on the healthcare issues facing women in the western and northern suburbs.

Over the next 12 months, our ‘Women’s Health Matters’ campaign will focus on the challenges facing women, including access to specialised and preventative healthcare, the availability of culturally appropriate healthcare and the adequacy of mental health services. We hope the campaign will help to raise awareness of critical healthcare issues for women and advocate for underserved communities in the west and north, particularly those in fringe suburbs and from minority communities.

We want to empower women in the north-west to address their healthcare needs.

Included in the campaign will be stories of resilience highlighting personal accounts of women who have overcome health challenges, advocacy initiatives, community engagement and collaborations with healthcare organisations.

We also want to hear from you about your individual healthcare experiences. If you have a story you would like to share, please get in touch via westeditorial@starweekly.com.au

Screening breakthrough

By Hannah Hammoud

A ground-breaking national campaign promoting the HPV self-collection option for cervical screening is helping bring empowerment and choice to women’s health across Australia.

This initiative aims to address health equity by reaching under-screened populations, particularly Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women, culturally and linguistically diverse communities (CALD), and patients with disabilities.

The National Cervical Screening Program

encourages women and people with a cervix aged 25 to 74 years of age to have a cervical screening test every five years through their healthcare provider, in a bid to reduce illness and death from cervical cancer.

The Cancer Council details that self-collection is when a woman or person with a cervix takes their own sample for cervical screening. A health care professional provides a cotton swab as well as instructions on how to collect the sample. A private place is also offered to collect the sample.

The Department of Health and Aged Care reports that about 800 women are diagnosed

with cervical cancer in Australia each year, and about 70 per cent of these cases occur in women who have never screened or were not up-to-date with their screening.

GenWest sexual and reproductive health team leader Sarah Lorrimar said the initiative will help to bridge the gap in cervical screening participation among diverse populations.

“It’s going to make a huge difference to how many people are accessing a cervical screen,” she said. “Cervical screens can be uncomfortable for anyone. For most people, going and getting a cervical screen isn’t the most pleasant experience but then there’s other

people where the process actually makes them feel unsafe and has emotional and physical effects on them too. There are people that have had medical trauma and sexual trauma that the process of getting a cervical screen can be extremely daunting for them and being able to self-collect means that they’ve got a greater sense of safety, comfort, and control.”

Ms Lorrimar said for women who have undergone female genital cutting, the traditional cervical screening process can be particularly daunting.

■ Continued: Page 8.

Highly trained professionals are taking care of women’s health in the west every day. (Picture courtesy: Royal Women’s Hospital)

Hobsons Bay City Council can help.

Many residents want solar panels but are put off by the complexities of choosing the right product, finding a credible installer and the upfront costs.

Council’s Solar Savers program is here to help make solar installation easy, affordable and reliable for residents.

ONE-THIRD of Hobsons Bay City Council’s electricity use is now powered BY THE SUN!

We’ve installed solar panels on 48 Council buildings, reducing greenhouse gas emissions by almost 2,600 tonnes per year.

That’s like flying Melbourne to Sydney I4,000 times!

Funding for community groups

By Max Westwood

Maribyrnong council has added $80,000 in funding to its 2024-25 budget, in a bid to help three community organisations.

Councillors endorsed the budget for next financial year during a council meeting on June 18.

The budget includes an average rate rise of 2.75 per cent, and a capital works program of $80.13 million.

As reported by Star Weekly , Western

Chances called on the council to provide three years’ funding for the scholarship program which supports young people experiencing financial barriers to education.

Councillors voted to include $30,000 in the 2024-25 budget for the organisation, as well as adding $40,000 for Vietnamese Community in Australia to support the 2025 Tet Festival, and $10,000 for Maribyrnong River and Waterways Association to support the employment of a Maribyrnong River officer.

The budget also includes $18.07 million for

major projects, $9.76 million for aquatic and leisure centers and $8.61 million for parks and gardens.

Council has allocated $5 million for the Shorten Reserve-RecWest redevelopment, supported by a $10 million state government grant, and over $1 million to begin the first phase of upgrade works at Hansen Reserve.

Council also allocated $21.33 million to improving the roads and footpaths, with $6 million allocated to finishing the Cowper Street upgrade, while $959,000 will be going

Gardening bee for flood victims

GenWest is helping breathe life back into landscapes affected by the 2022 Maribyrnong floods, one garden at a time.

On Sunday, June 23, GenWest hosted its third gardening working bee, which supports flood affected families in Maribyrnong.

Mental health and wellbeing project lead Wennie van Riet said the program is designed tohelpthosewholosttheirgardenstothemajor flood event. “We have helped two families before, both in the same area,” she said.

“This is now the third one we have done.“

To decide which family to choose for the working bee, Ms van Riet said GenWest underwent a nomination process to all who

were flood-affected.

Together with Eyrie Studio Gardening co-ordinator Dylan Newel, Ms van Riet hosts a consultationsessionwiththefamilyinadvance to work out a plan of what they want for their new garden.

“We had 11 families come forward and did gardeningconsultationswitheveryfamily,”she said. “We visited them, had a chat with them on what we wanted to do and then we selected gardens which were most suitable for working with volunteers and those who were most in need.”

MsvanRietsaidthemorningkickedoffwith building a veggie patch.

“The co-ordinator oversees the day, which begins at 10am, where people shovel dirt and build the gardening bed,” she said.

Lunch was provided by Maribyrnong council, then from 1-2pm the volunteers enjoyed a gardening workshop.

“It was delivered by My Smart Garden who runs through how to run a sustainable garden on a flood plain,” she said.

“We also have a kids facilitator on site, she is atherapeutichorticulturistwhoworkswiththe children creating gardening awareness.”

Details: https://genwest.org.au/ocov/ Jennifer Pittorino

towards fixing bicycle paths.

Mayor Cuc Lam was appreciative of the community involvement in the moulding of the annual budget.

“The 2024-25 annual budget underscores our dedication to actively engaging with residents to get to the heart of what matters to our community. We have allocated funds where they are most needed, focusing on areas such as roads, footpaths, open spaces, and essential community services,” she said.

Maribyrnong council is introducing paid parking to the Footscray activity centre in the Raleigh Street car park, from Monday, July 1.

Council said it is introducing paid parkinginanefforttoimproveparking turnover and reduce congestion in an area which is becoming busier each day.

“Parking in the Footscray activity centre is experiencing growing demand and high levels of occupancy,” council said.

“Data is showing parking bays are often fully occupied over the whole day, making it difficult for visitors to find places they can safely park.”

Council said the cost of a ticket is $2.30 per hour, or $9.60 all day, from 8am-6pm, Monday to Friday.

A portion of parking bays will be available for free parking for a maximum of four hours, Monday to Friday, with a two-week grace period to be offered.

Council said it is also increasing the timelimitsintheAlbertStreetcarpark from two hours to four hours between the hours of 8am-6pm, Monday to Saturday. Parking remains free at this car park.

MayorCucLamsaidcouncilexpects to see a boost in visits to libraries, businesses and restaurants in the area, with more parking spaces available for more customers.

“We’ve kept the cost of tickets as low as possible with revenue being used to support the delivery of key services and infrastructure our community is asking us to deliver.”

Council to lobby for state to hand over old hospital site

Maribyrnong council will advocate for the existing Footscray Hospital site to be handed over to council once services move to the new hospital.

The majority of the existing hospital site is expected to be vacant by 2026.

The existing site is mostly owned by the state government, with council owning 1.5 hectares of the southern car park.

The state government is currently assessing the site to understand how to best deliver for current and emerging community needs.

Councillors adopted council’s vision for the site at a council meeting on June 18, calling for the state government to give the site to council – at least in part – for

community uses.

The council’s vision include a 3.5 hectare municipal park, a minimum of 30 per cent affordable and social housing and a well connected street network.

Councillor Simon Crawford said the community had helped shaped the proposal by providing feedback on council’s draft vision for the site.

“We know that this is something that local residents, probably all Maribyrnong residents, but particularly local residents are very passionate about. We had the group come and talk to us a few months back about their proposal that they have developed with the local community,” he said.

“That’s really had an impact on the plan we are putting forward.”

Mayor Cuc Lam will write to Premier Jacinta Allan, Footscray MP Katie Hall and western metropolitan region MPs seeking meetings to discuss council’s vision for the site.

“I think we have come up with a good plan and I am hoping that the state will take it very seriously, but the ball is in their court now and we’ll see what they come back with,” Cr Crawford said.

The existing Footscray Hospital site. (Supplied)

Paul Lau was one of the Maribyrnong residents to receive a garden makeover by GenWest. (Damjan Janevski) 413526_05

Footscray Park spaces to reopen

Maribyrnong council hopes to reopen two sections of Footscray Park to the public in October, after the spaces were fenced off following the drowning of two toddlers in two separate incidents in 2021.

In July 2021, a three-year-old girl died after drowning in a pond at the Thomson Water Gardens.

In December that same year, a two-year-old drowned in the same pond.

Council closed the Thomson Water Gardens andremovedwaterfromthepondinDecember 2021 following the second drowning.

The playspace was damaged in the October 2022 Maribyrnong flood, resulting in it being closed to the public.

A report to council in December 2023, following a September 2023 coroner’s report into the drawings, stated that the playground and its proximity to the pond had been recognised as a potential risk to unsupervised children.

“Whilst the playground is entirely fenced, it has been designed in an integrated manner so families can enjoy the entire park space,” the report stated. “Even with implementing future

Wildlife,flora in the lens

Thirteen hundred people from across 10 countries. That is the reach that the Facebook group, ‘Wildlife and Native Flora of Hobsons Bay’, run by Ann Darioli and Sean McGrath has now attained.

Now, the group has an upcoming exhibition at Altona’s Louis Joel Arts Centre featuring photographs taken by group members.

“It’s just an exhibition of photos, of wildlife and native flora of Hobsons Bay, taken by all sorts of people, many of whom haven’t met each other, don’t know each other and they’re just people who love nature and love where we live,” Darioli said.

McGrathsetupthepageduringMelbourne’s Covid lockdowns.

“He was out walking one evening and he saw a pelican at sunset, which is absolutely beautiful. And he thought, wouldn’t it be nice to be able to share this with other people,“ Darioli said.

“So he set that page up and it very quickly

grew and he asked me if I would be his partner in crime because he just had a new baby and he didn’t have time to devote to the page.”

Dariloi is grateful to have an amazing platform to share the beauty of Hobsons Bay with the world.

“Through this amazing platform, we’re able to share our photographs with those who don’t have the opportunity to be here.”

The exhibition starts on July 12 and runs for three weeks.

Details: https://www.ljac.com.au/

Max Westwood

Wildlife and Native Flora of Hobson Bay members. (Damjan Janevski) 413257_03

risk mitigations, there remains an inherent risk to public safety noting the close proximity of the playground to the ponds, and the high volume of participation attracted to this location on a weekly basis.

“With this in mind officers consider the ponds and the playspace now need to be separated to mitigate risk associated with water hazard recognition.”

At council meeting on June 18 this year, officers informed councillors that the future location of the playspace will be determined by the Footscray Park masterplan, to be

completed in 2025.

In the meantime, the play equipment will be dismantled and retained, while the site will be leveled and grassed, with mature trees to be retained.

The report said council was also working to restore the water gardens, in line with recommendations from the coroner.

Councillor Simon Crawford said council wanted to keep the community updated on its plans for the park, noting that there have been “some really terrible things that have happened at that space”.

Crime surges in Maribyrnong

Maribyrnong’s crime rate surged by more than 16 per cent in the year to March, new data reveals.

According to the Crime Statistics Agency, there were 10,102 offences recorded in the Maribyrnong municipality in the 12 months to March, up from 8664 offences during the previous 12 months.

A Victoria Police spokesperson said the increase in crime in Maribyrnong was largely due to a rise in property offences, including vehicle-related thefts and retail store thefts.

The municipality recorded a 16.5 per cent increase in stealing from a motor vehicle, with 1536 offences recorded in the year to March, up from 1319 offences as of March

2023. This was the top offence category in the 12 months to March this year.

“To target this issue Maribyrnong has established a dedicated vehicle crime reduction team which sole purpose is to investigate and prevent car thefts,: the police spokesperson said.

Other thefts rose 45.2 per cent, from 871 offences as of March 2023, to 1265 offences as of March 2024, making it the second most common offence in Maribyrnong.

There were 205 more thefts from retail stores in Maribyrnong in the year to March (715 offences, up from 510), while criminal damage offences rose from 601 incidents in the year to March 2023, to 705 incidents in the year to March 2024.

Celebrate local history

In collaboration with Footscray Historical Society, Maribyrnong council is inviting the community to share their archival treasures from the post-war era for a new exhibition celebrating the history of Footscray.

Council said the Friday Nights in Footscray exhibition will take visitors on a journey from the post-war era to today, capturing the allure and grandeur of Footscray’s nocturnal past.

It will feature old photographs, nostalgic newsreels, and historical memorabilia, celebrating Footscray’s history of after-dark entertainment.

“Footscray has always been a hub for leisure and entertainment,” mayor Cuc Lam said.

“Local residents have rich memories of meeting their sweethearts and dancing the night away at one of the many ballrooms in the city.

“Whether it be visiting Shea’s Orama Ballroom or the Palais (now the Footscray Market), catching a film at the Trocadero, La Scala, Grand or Barkley theatres, or just promenading down its elegant streets,

Footscray has always been a place for fun.

“This exhibition will celebrate a city that despite the changes of time, continues to be a sought-after destination for great food, hospitality and entertainment.”

Council is seeking photographs, film footage and archival material to be used in the exhibition, such as film or dance programs, postcards which tell the stories of the many nighttimeattractionsofFootscray–ballrooms, picture theatres, pubs, clubs and popular late night merchants during the post-war period (1950s–1980s).

Friday Nights in Footscray is supported through a local history grant.

Submissions are welcome until 5pm Friday, August 23.

To upload your submission, visit: maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/Events/Friday-NightsIn-Footscray-Exhibition-Call-for-Submissions

Footscray recorded the highest number of offences in the municipality (3519), followed by Maribyrnong (1786) and Braybrook (1532).

“Maribyrnong police also regularly conduct operations in Footscray CBD to deter and detect anti-social behaviour,” the police spokesperson said. “Only last month, the blitz resulted in 20 arrests and 23 outstanding warrants being executed.”

Meanwhile, overall crime in Hobsons Bay rose by 2.2 per cent, up from 5839 offences in the year to March 2023, to 5968 offences in the year to March 2024.

According to police, overall crime in the municipality has dropped by 1.4 per cent from pre-pandemic years.

“In fact, the latest data shows Hobsons Bay recorded the fourth lowest criminal offences out of 31 metropolitan [local government areas],” the police spokesperson said.

The slight rise in criminal offences in Hobsons Bay in the 12 months to March was driven by an increase in justice offences, such as breaches of family violence or intervention orders, or perverting the course of justice. Offences in this category rose from 511 offences as of March 2023, to 657 offences as of March 2024.

“This shows police are continually arresting offenders for breaching court orders, including family violence orders, and holding perpetrators to account,” the police spokesperson said.

Mentors helping women succeed

By Narelle Coulter

When Sarah Constable and Nikki* meet for coffee or a walk in St Albans, they look like old friends catching up for a chat.

They talk about movies, television shows, music, their pets and families.

However, the lives of Sarah and Nikki only intersected earlier this year thanks to early intervention program Women And Mentoring (WAM).

WAM supports women and non-binary people who are in contact with the justice system, offering them support and friendship in their local community. Volunteers use their life experiences to empower women to make change in their lives.

Sarah, who has worked as a mental health nurse and is now a paramedic, became involved with WAM after seeing a Facebook advertisement calling for volunteers.

“I work full time in the ambulance service now and missed working with marginalised populations,” Sarah said.

“Most of WAM’s clients are referred from the justice system and may have concerns with housing and drug and alcohol addiction. I’ve worked a lot in that space and feel comfortable in that aspect. I wanted to reconnect with someone in that position and see them grow and meet their goals.”

Sarah underwent training provided by WAM before being matched with Nikki and receives ongoing support from fellow mentors through peer supervision. She and Nikki meet weekly or fortnightly in the community.

“We mostly go for a walk or get a coffee and

talk about what is going on in each other’s lives,” Sarah explained.

“I am there to help if she’s struggling. I can link her in with services, I can attend appointments or provide assistance with

collating documents or go to the library with her to print documents.”

Sarah said she is enjoying walking beside Nikki on her journey towards a more positive life.

“Often women don’t have people they can trust. As an outside person with no vested interestitisnicetoholdthatspaceforsomeone to allow them to trust another person in their life and allow them to navigate a healthy relationship and model those behaviours.

“Doing this has helped me understand what other people face and their barriers and by default, that makes you appreciate your own life.”

WAM chief executive Tricia Ciampa said more volunteer mentors are needed in the west.

“Over the past few years we have seen demand for our mentoring service increase across the western suburbs. Approximately 17 per cent of referrals are for women living between Moonee Valley and Melton, and also Wyndham. It would be ideal to recruit 20 wonderful volunteers, women and non-binary folk, from these areas to help us establish a reliable pool of mentors to draw from,” Ms Ciampa said.

“Attracting volunteer mentors from the local area is so critical – you have local knowledge of services, you are comfortable getting about your area on public transport, and you are also helping build the capacity of people in your community to create positive change.”

Ms Ciampa said mentors do not need specialist skills or knowledge but must be available during the week to meet with their participant.

To get involved phone 0403 583 648 or go to www.womenandmentoring.org.au

* not her real name

Volunteer mentor Sarah Constable. (Damjan Janevski)

Footscray Mechanics Institute treasurer Steven Wilson and mayor Cuc Lam. (Damjan Janevski) 410472_02

Art everywhere

By Cr Bernadette Thomas

The City of Maribyrnong is lucky to be home to a thriving creative community and vibrant arts and culture scene. If you are looking for some creative comfort as the weather cools, Maribyrnong has a lot to keep you physically and artistically warm!

Recently, I joined our new Arts Advisory Committee. The committee was formed to strengthen partnerships between council, artists and local organisations in generating arts and cultural experiences for our community to participate and enjoy.

Through our discussion, I was reminded of just how much art is a key part of our urban environment.

You don’t have to go far to experience art at your doorstep.

Why not put on your walking shoes and take Council’s new walking tour of local StreetWORKS murals.

It is enjoyable for both children and adults.

The StreetWORKS program has been supporting artists to activate sites across the municipality with engaging murals since 2014.

To coincide with 10 years of the StreetWORKS program, council has recently commissioned10newartworkstobrightenup our streets in partnership with the Victorian government.

You will be amazed by the vibrant colours and bold messages that reflect the diversity of our community, giving a nod to our shared history, and imagining what our collective future might be.

PickupafreeStreetWORKSwalkingmapof Footscray at your local library or community centre.

Our public art program continues to delight when you least expect it, popping up in our

parks and open spaces, and along the river like the gateway sculpture, Maribyrnong by Geoff Bartlett at the Hopkins Street Bridge; the illuminated flower sculpture, Billy Button Band by Yarraville-based collective Skunk Control at the Billy Button Children’s Centre; and more recently, Architecture of the Sole by Tracey Lamb as part of the new Henry Turner South Pavilion.

You may have also noticed that we have wrapped some of our public infrastructure in local artist’s drawings and paintings.

Check out the public toilets in Footscray and Yarraville, the new electric vehicle charger in the Raleigh Street car park, and our traffic light boxes!

These are some of the ways we are helping to bring more vibrancy to our neighbourhoods.

Later this year, council will begin the early work on updating the strategy for arts, culture and creativity in Maribyrnong. For anyone interested in the city’s arts and culture, the monthly e-news Art Bytes is a great way to stay connected.

Details: www.maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/artsand-culture/Programs/Sector-development/ Creative-opportunities/Art-Bytes for more.

Briefs

Information appeal

Police are appealing for public assistance as they continue to investigate a hit-run in West Melbourne last month. Emergency services were called to reports a car collided with a cyclist on Dynon Road, near the intersection of Lloyd Street, about 7.25pm on May 30. The cyclist, a 33-year-old Maribyrnong woman, was taken to hospital with serious injuries. The driver of the car did not stop at the scene and continued travelling north on Lloyd Street towards Arden Street. The vehicle is believed to be a white SUV. Police are appealing for any witnesses, or anyone with dashcam footage around the time of the incident which may assist with their inquiries.

Warm Winter Read

Maribyrnong council is bringing back its Warm Winter Read, from June 1 to August 31. Council encourages readers to pick up a book from your ’to read’ list, finish that one you’ve left unfinished for months, or discover something new from Maribyrnong libraries. Those interested can register anytime by setting up a profile on the new Public Libraries Victoria Read Book website, or alternatively visit a library branch to pick up a reading journal and register in-person.

FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au

Maribyrnong & Hobsons Bay Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Getting health right for women

By Associate Professor Ines Rio

Being a woman often feels really tough. It can be hard on your body: periods, pregnancy, breastfeeding, menopause. It can be hard on your mental health: the load of caring for children, ageing parents, finances, making a happy home and lives for others. And the juggle of it all.

This is all made harder by less pay for the same work, less superannuation, and more unpaid work compared with men. It is expected that we bear the burden of what is needed in a family and shoulder the lion’s share of effort when things go awry.

We have less power, less of a voice. We are less heard. And all of this is exacerbated if you have a disability, don’t speak English, are parenting alone, experience trauma or violence or have a partner who doesn’t respect you as an equal.

We so often eat the burnt toast, take the smaller portion of food, spend money on our kids and forsake our own desires. We pay too little attention to our health needs, leave our cancer screening too late and put up with what we wouldn’t want our daughters to endure.

There is an overdue conversation about women’s health and wellbeing happening now. It highlights the high prevalence and wide-ranging harm of family violence, and that our health and social system is gendered against women.

It is a system that pays doctors better to have

lots of short consultations rather than fewer longer ones, where they can deeply listen to women’s complex and often multiple health concerns.

Women tell us they often don’t feel listened to, and their health issues are diagnosed late.

YOUR NEW CAREER ... starts here

Research is mainly done on men and only then applied to women.

Women too frequently don’t have financial and housing stability, without which it’s almost impossible to be healthy and properly address illness. And without good, affordable

childcare, work is hard, and finances and independence get even harder. It’s not all doom and gloom. There are often joys to our gender. Think of more and deeper familyandsocialrelationships,thejoyofbeing a mother or daughter, being the lynchpin of a family, and often of a community, and viewing success as much broader than money and career.

And there are some welcome changes happening. There is longer maternity leave, companies are required to report on gender pay gap, and provide greater support for women experiencing violence.

And at last, minimum wages are increasing in some our most feminised workforce, such as aged care.

But to achieve equity for women and improve women’s lot, we need more changes across society, including our health, social, housing, education and work systems. As a doctor, I have loads of ideas about what we need. But the solutions shouldn’t be led by doctors. They need to be driven by all women. Star Weekly is running a series on women’s health – what keeps women well, what makes them unwell, what help they need, what stops them getting this help, and what would work to break down those barriers. When has the right help changed their world?

I applaud the newspaper group for this initiative. For if we get it right for women, we get it right for everyone.

* Associate Professor Ines Rio is a working GP. She is also a member of the National Women’s Health Advisory Council, Chief Medical Officer at Monash University, the Chair of North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network’s Board, the Deputy Chair of Sexual Health Victoria and an advisor to the TherapeuticGoodsAdministration.

Screening breakthrough

■ From page 1.

The GenWest team includes Family and Reproductive Rights Education Program (FARREP) workers who have long advocated for a more sensitive screening method.

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.

“Now that there’s the option of a cervical screen that they can self-collect without the speculum that makes it much easier for people and is a much more safer process,” she said.

The Australian Centre for the Prevention of Cervical Cancer (ACPCC) is playing a pivotal role in the campaign by delivering healthcare provider education. This education focuses on the importance of self-collection and how to support patients through the process.

Ms Lorrimar said it is necessary that healthcare providers are well-informed and proactive.

“Because people don’t know what they don’t know,” she 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

“Being given healthcare information is really important and I think it’s essential for healthcare professionals to provide that information to people so that they can be proactive with their healthcare, to look after their bodies and know what to look out for when things don’t seem right.

“It’s also really important for healthcare professionals – particularly in Melbourne’s west. It’s such a diverse community that I think healthcare professionals also need to keep upskillingandmakingsurethey’refiguringout new ways to best work with all those different communities … it’s really important that healthcare professionals provide a safe space and are forthright with a lot of information around things like screening.”

The federal government reported that more than 315,000 women had self-collected as of March, with 27 per cent of screening tests done that way.

The option to self-screen has been particularly positive for people who have never screened or are overdue, with one in three first-time screeners and 40 per cent of overdue screeners taking up the self-collection option, the government said.

For more information on the National Cervical Screening Program and to access translated resources, visit: https://shorturl.at/ lLDIi

Translated resources can be found at: https:// shorturl.at/DdrNM Healthcare providers can find additional resources and webinars at: https://shorturl.at/ znjnj

Associate Professor Ines Rio. (Supplied)

Sexual and reproductive health team leader Sarah Lorrimar. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 413208_06

Piggy in the middle when it comes to money sense

With the cost of living increasing, now is a better time than ever to teach children about the importance of saving money effectively. With that in mind, financial experts from money.co.uk have compiled a list of their top 10tipsforteachingyourchildrenaboutmoney.

Start with the basics of money and finance–How you introduce money to your children willpartlydependontheirage.Agoodplaceto start is getting children comfortable handling cash and coins. Explain to them how money is used to buy things and that it must be earned before it can be spent.

Speak openly about small financial decisions –Start getting your child involved with minor financial decisions, such as which brands and items to buy when shopping. This way your child is able to understand the decisions you make while also feeling in control of certain financial choices.

Older children could also help with budgeting while shopping if you ask them to keep a running total of the items you buy. Not only will this help their maths skills, but it can also help them to understand how small items can still add up in price and not everything is affordable on a budget.

Set a good example with your own finances –There are no two ways about it, children learn money habits from their parents. Showing them small activities, such as checking the receipt after your shop or putting money into savings can start developing positive habits from a young age.

Encourage your child to ask questions without repercussion in this setting. While you might not necessarily have all the answers, opening up a dialogue is a healthy way for your child to learn more about finance.

There are so many benefits to teaching your child about money at a young age.

Use pocket money as an incentive for small tasks – Using pocket money as an incentive to do chores around the house not only helps you, but it also helps your child learn more about the value of money and what it takes to earn it. Creating a simple plan with a set amount of money for different tasks, along with caps per weekormonth,isagreatwaytohelpyourchild start understanding where money comes from. The relationship between work and money, household chores and pocket money is also

a great opportunity to show children how to save. If your child has shown interest in a more expensive purchase, you could set them up with an old-fashioned piggy bank where they can ‘deposit’ their earnings or create a chart for them to fill out so they can track how much money they have.

James Andrews from money.co.uk encourages parents to teach children how to handle money from a young age.

“Creating an environment where you can

speak more openly with your children about financial decisions is key to them gaining an understanding of the value of money,” Mr Andrews says.

“It’s important to make sure your lessons are age-appropriate and that you continue to involveandteachyourchildrenaboutmoneyas theygrow-ahealthyrelationshipwithfinances starts at a young age, and children learn most of their habits from their parents.”

Originally published on www.money.co.uk/.

Applications close August 16 2024

Going dry for a cure

As winter and rain roll in, Dry July is just around the corner. Gerald Lynch speaks to Werribee’s Zach Thornton about the cause that asks people to give up or give.

More than 160,000 Australians have taken on the challenge of abstaining from alcohol for the month of July, but few would have stronger motivating factors than Werribee’s Zach Thornton.

After losing his father to cancer at a young age, he decided to jump on board and participate in Dry July during lockdown in 2020.

Feeling that alcohol was too easy to give up, Zach also threw in soft drinks and his beloved iced-coffees, as well as a 31-kilometre run at the end of the month, one kilometre for each day.

Less than a year after taking part in Dry July, in April 2021, Zach’s twin sister Zoe was diagnosed with breast cancer.

This spurred Zach to continue the challenge each year, and instead, run a kilometre for every year he and his sister had been around.

In 2021 it was 26, and this year, with Zoe making a full recovery, Zach will run 29 kilometres at the end of July, to celebrate Zoe, and help continue to raise funds.

For Zach, it took some time to get on board with the cause, but he looks back on it as one of the best decisions he’s made.

“I’ve always felt a sense of desire to advocate for causes, but before 2020 I hadn’t quite jumped on that one yet,” he said.

“I probably hadn’t really entirely reconciled my experience with losing my dad to cancer yet, but then I thought what better way to recognise and celebrate him, and do good to raise funds for those who have gone through it and are going through it.

“I know it’s seen as ‘difficult’ but it’s not, in the grand scheme of things. I do it for those aroundmeandobviouslyZoebecameafactor.

“If I can run for a couple of hours at the end of the month, and get off alcohol and sugary stuff, and use that to raise a few thousand, that’s all the fulfilment I could need.”

He said being around a football club and

‘‘ What I have to give up does not compare to what Zoe went through, what Dad went through, and what all the other Zoes and Dads are going through ’’ - Zach Thornton

beingasocialperson,hehasrunintoinstances where abstaining from drinking alcohol has made things slightly less enjoyable, but the sacrifice pales in comparison to that of those battling with cancer.

“Tarneit’s [his football club] mid-season ball has been in July the last two years, and dealing with people when they’re drinking and you’re not can be difficult,” he said.

“Ifyou’reinasettingwherealcoholispartof the fun, it can be a bit hard … but it genuinely doesn’t phase me … because what I have to give up does not compare to what Zoe went through, what dad went through, and what all the other Zoes and Dads are going through.”

In his first four years of participating, Zach has raised $12,218 toward various causes, and this year, he has his sights set on a $3000 goal, going toward the Royal Melbourne Hospital.

To those on the fence about getting involved ahead of this July, he just had one message; do it.

“I think it’d be the easiest decision you could ever make,” he said.

“If you have someone you want to celebrate or raise awareness for, just commit to it … the challenge is worthwhile.”

The cause behind Dry July dates back to the first Dry July in 2008. Three mates, Brett, Kenny, and Phil, wanted to take a break from alcohol, so they decided to abstain for the month of July, coining it their ‘Dry July’. They

also wanted to raise money for a cause very close to their hearts, so they asked family and friends to sponsor them.

Hoping to raise $3000 to buy a TV for their local cancer centre’s waiting room, the campaignwasahugesuccessraising$250,000.

Since 2008, Dry July Foundation has continued to support cancer service organisations and has raised over $90 million for more than 80 organisations across Australia.

Dry July interim chief executive Gillian Odbert sees the cause as a way to raise awareness and give back to a cause that affects so many people.

“Like so many Australians, cancer has impacted many of my family and friends, including my mother, father and some of my uncles, so it has always been a cause close to my heart,” she said.

“For me, Dry July is unique because you can raise funds to support cancer patients with different variants through so many national, regional and local support organisations across Australia.

“It’s a tangible way to pay forward the support those services have given my family over the years.”

She said in her time working with the cause, there has been many great instances of people going above and beyond, but one story of two sons honouring their late father stands out above the rest.

“Last year we had two brothers, Tadgh and Declan Waddington, who raised over $17,000 for their chosen beneficiary, Ballarat Regional Integrated Cancer Centre (BRICC),” she said.

“In loving memory of their father, Mark, who passed away in August 2022 from a rare form of cancer, the Waddington brothers set themselves the task of adding to their Dry July by kicking a goal (AFL) for every dollar raised.

“The donations rolled in, and the boys stuck to their word. In late July, Declan and Tadgh

kicked thousands of goals and successfully wrapped up their Dry July with a bang!

“It is amazing what participants will do to raise funds, knowing the impact the services Dry July Foundation funds have on the lives of people affected by cancer.”

Dry July funds support people affected by cancer when they need it most. Funds raised provide invaluable services –whetherit’saridetoalife-savingappointment, guidance from a specialist nurse, connection to an information service, access to therapy programs or a bed close to treatment.

Up until the end of June, Werribee business Western Landcare Services, has committed to matching any funds donated to Zach’s fundraiser up to $400.

Donate: https://www.dryjuly.com/users/ zach-thornton

Twins Zach and Zoe Thornton. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 413607_04

Dry July interim chief executive Gillian Odbert. (Supplied)

Champion Road options floated

By Jennifer Pittorino

Hobsons Bay council is asking the Level Crossing Removal Project (LXRP) to assess the alternativeoptionscouncilhascreated,toavoid closing Champion Road.

In October 2022, the state government announced Champion Road would be completely closed to traffic to support the implementation of a rail bridge.

In its meeting on Tuesday, June 11, council reiterated its view that Champion Road should not be closed.

Council said it has worked with members of theLevelCrossingCommunityInterestGroup,

local community groups, as well as major project stakeholders, including Mobil and Viva Energy, to develop two potential alternative options to closing Champion Road.

These two options include a Champion Road bridge over rail, similar to Aviation Road, Laverton LXR project, and the extension of the Maddox Road rail bridge over Champion Road, similar to Kororoit Creek Road, Altona LXR project.

Hobsons Bay council chief executive Aaron van Egmond said these options have been explored by council officers and councillors.

“It is important to note the options that are put forward have been put forward in an

Family friendly festival

The Muslim culture will be celebrated at Footscray’s SalamFest this Saturday.

The event will celebrate Eid al-Adha, which SalamFest founder Ayesha Bux said is one of the biggest celebrations Muslims have.

“It marks the end of Hajj, the pilgrimage,” she said.

“For Muslims, it means lots of food, lots of celebration, coming together as families. So, we thought we’ll celebrate it In the same way with lots of food, lots of art, lots of culture.”

People of all cultures are welcome to attend the event, and Ayesha hopes that everyone will be able to enjoy themselves and take something meaningful away from their experience.

“So if there’s a non-Muslim I would love them to think, wow,” she said.

“Where we might not have time to have a deep, intimate conversation so when they

experience the quality and calibre of the music, they’re in awe of what we’ve shown them.”

Ayehsa founded this event as a way of celebrating Muslims.

“It weighed really heavily on me that in the second year [of the festival] we had a young person come to us and say, ‘I don’t tell my friends and colleagues I’m Muslim’, and I still think of it.

“And that helped shape a lot of SalamFest as well … our community should not feel that, you know, shy from expressing our culture and our tradition and sharing it with people.”

SalamFest is on June 29 at 139 Nicholson Street, Footscray, from 3-8pm.

Details: https://salamfest.com/

Max Westwood

attempt to fully implement council’s resolution in opposing the closure of Champion Road,” he said. “So the community can be informed as to what lengths have been gone to to fully explore options to make sure a really important road in the Hobsons Bay network is not closed off as a result of this project.”

Councilofficershavealsocompletedaclosure of Champion Road traffic impact assessment, which found that the closure will result in increased traffic in the area. “The closure of Champion Road will result in a considerable redistribution of traffic movements, with drivers diverting their trips via Maddox Road to cross the railway line,” said a council report.

The report also found that a vehicle connection on Champion Road across the railway should be retained based on future population projections.

A state government spokesperson said, “The designs from Hobsons Bay City Council are completely unfeasible and do not stack up.

“They would require significant compulsory acquisitionofhomesandbusinessesinNewport and would interfere with critical pipelines that provide fuel to Melbourne Airport.

“Getting rid of two level crossings at Maddox and Champion roads will improve safety and allow more trains to run in the future without increasing boom gate down time.”

ADVERTORIAL

Behind the walls of Victoria’s prisons – what life is

really

Ever wondered what it’s like to work in prison?

Most people have a very particular idea – high walls, long and dark corridors and heavy security. The reality is that working in a prison is so much more.

United by a desire to protect the public and change lives for the better, Victoria’s prison officers are as diverse as the communities they serve.

From tradies and teachers to healthcare workers and retail staff – it’s a career that attracts people from all walks of life, but few know what the role of a prison officer actually entails.

Prison Officer Eric shares his story.

“Communication is everything,” says Eric, a Prison Officer at Metropolitan Remand Centre.

“Before becoming a prison officer, I thought it would be a physically challenging job. Now I know one of the most important tools we have is our voice.”

Born and raised in China, Eric travelled the world as an international tour guide and visited more than 40 countries including Serbia, Vietnam, Korea, the Philippines, Egypt and Russia.

“After traveling extensively, I thought I had seen all the world has to offer, but being a prison officer is the job I never knew I wanted,” Eric said. “I started a family and needed more stable work and it seemed like a good opportunity.”

Eric was pleasantly surprised to find similarities between being a tour guide and his role as a prison officer.

“The thing I loved most about my job as a tour guide was caring for and working with people from all walks of life. Being a prison

like for the people who work there

Prison Officer Eric shares his story.

officer offers the same opportunity – it’s just a different group of people.”

Looking for something different? The skills you already have can help you make

SalamFest founder Ayesha Bux. (Damjan Janevski) 414477_02.JPG

Discharging soap leaves a stain

AsoapandshampoomanufacturerinLaverton

North has been fined nearly $10,000 by the Environment Protection Authority after it was found discharging its industrial wastewater into a nearby stormwater drain.

EPA officers, working with Greater Western Water, noticed murky, white coloured liquid in a stormwater drain during a visit to Greenleaf Cosmetics Australia Pty Ltd in Agosta Drive in May 2024.

The liquid was pouring into the stormwater drain from a hose connected to a nearby wastewater tank.

Industrial wastewater is supposed to be collected and disposed of to an appropriate facility.

“The only thing we want going down our stormwater drains is rainwater, certainly not wastewater that had been used in a soap making process,” EPA western metropolitan regional manager Steve Lansdell said.

“While the owner insisted it was a one-off incident by a casual worker, more than 1000 litres of the wastewater has been discharged. This kind of liquid is very likely to have an effect on our waterways and marine life.

“Every Victorian has a duty to act to prevent pollution and safeguard the environment. Greenleafwasclearlynotdoingso,andafineof $9616 is appropriate.”

It’s the second fine issued by the EPA to a Laverton North company this week.

On Monday, June 10, a recycling company that allowed dirt and debris to be tracked out of its yard and down the street was fined nearly $2000. Onesteel Recycling Pty Ltd, trading as InfraBuild, allowed mud, dirt and gravel to track beyond the boundary of their Fitzgerald Road site as trucks left.

Stories inspire Dinjerra PS students

Footscray-based social enterprise, 100 Story Building, is helping Dinjerra Primary School students to find their voices.

The organisation, which aims to help improve the literacy of marginalised children, recently extended its program to Dinjerra Primary School.

Dinjerra interventions manager Nazlia Edwards said the program, which will run for three years, had allowed students to flourish creatively.

“It’s been a really great example of where their voices have been listened to so real student voices and really, truly reflective of

student agency,” she said.

“They’ve also done a workshop in each of the classrooms across the prep to grade 6 levels for demonstrating to our classroom teachers their philosophy and their way that they engage children in writing workshops.”

Ms Edwards said the school library will be transformed into a study hub, providing students with a space to be imaginative and creative.

She said artist Ben Allder had adapted the students’ written ideas to create a visual learning space.

“The co-facilitators have been coming to the

school over the last eight weeks and they’ve been co-designing a story hub space with a group of about 20 of our 5-6 students,” Ms Edwards said.

“They’re going to leave the legacy because lots of them are in grade 5-6 where, you know, the story hubs will continue to evolve and develop over the years.”

“And they’ve been really thinking deeply about how the story hub space will be used by students across the school and how it will live on for years past once they’ve left the school.”

Max Westwood

“Infrabuild is aware that they have a problem with escaping mud and wash water and while they have a street sweeper, they should have controls in place to ensure dirt never leaves the site in the first place,” EPA western metropolitan acting regional manager Sam Sparks said.

“Our officers attended the site in May 2024 and could see where the mud had tracked. A fine of $1923 will reinforce on them the need to takeactionandsendamessagetoallbusinesses that caring for the environment and acting to protect it, is everyone’s business.”

Spelling errors on windows

Spelling and punctuation errors and misnamed Williamstown landmarks have plagued printed windows installed at the Dennis Reserve community centre.

Among the mistakes on the windows are the Williamstown Botanic Gardens being incorrectly named the Williamstown Botanical Gardens, while the backdrop of John Morley Reserve has been incorrectly labelled as Commonwealth Reserve.

Williamstown resident Don Wood spotted the mistakes.

“I just happened to be walking past and having a look at the building and I thought that’s all wrong, so I took a snap,” he said.

After spotting the mistakes, Mr Wood contacted Hobsons Bay council with photos of the misprints.

“I sent them off to the council and they rang back and said ‘yes, they were wrong’ and they’d have to get them reprinted,” he said.

A council spokesperson confirmed Mr Wood made a complaint about the mistakes on the window decals on May 27.

“The reprinting of the two decals will cost $1450, and installation is expected to be scheduled for as soon as possible,” the spokesperson said.

Max Westwood

Dinjerra Primary School students Ryan and Claire with artist Ben Allder. (Damjan Janevski) 414653_02

(Ljubica Vrankovic) 412253_02

PUZZLES

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

ACROSS

1 Expend (3)

3 Choice (10)

10 Applaud (7)

11 Southern Pacific region (7)

12 Facilities of a building (9)

13 Ancient South American civilisation (4)

15 Florida fort (10)

17 Large jug (4)

19 Accepted standard (4)

20 Child of one’s child (10)

23 Keyboard error (4)

25 Insipid (9)

27 Members of a powerful military caste in feudal Japan (7)

28 Hub for military planes (7)

29 They protect the eyes from the glare (10)

30 Charter (3)

DOWN

1 Ineffectual (10)

2 The British Treasury (9)

4 Rest (9)

5 Moves steadily (5)

6 Watery (6)

7 Babysitter (5)

8 Web auction site (4)

9 Acting with ease (6)

14 Rainbow-coloured (10)

16 Painting of the countryside (9)

18 British civil service (coll) (9)

21 Said when raising a glass (6)

22 Light reddish brown (6)

24 Arab state (5)

25 Counterparts (5)

26 Egyptian goddess (4)

Using the

four letters or more can you list? The centre

be included and each letter may only be used

No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural nouns ending in “s”.

1 Colloquially, what is a cakewalk?

2 Where is the Bredikhin crater located?

3 For which three films has Daniel Day-Lewis won an Academy Award for Best Actor?

4 In which city was Australian cricketer Usman Khawaja born?

5 To which continent is the kangaroo rat native?

6 In which year was X (formerly Twitter) created and launched?

7 Maleficent is the main antagonist in which animated Disney film?

8 Which motor company makes the vehicle X-Trail?

9 Matt Damon (pictured) stars as a former criminal named Max in which 2013 sci-fi action film?

10 What is a female moose called?

No. 191

No. 191

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

Fiddle group

The Newport Folk and Fiddle Beginner Play Along Group is a great place for beginners or those with some experience, to play music in a safe, casual and welcoming environment. Come on down, have some fun, make new friends, have a cuppa and maybe even learn something new. All instruments and levels of expertise are welcomed where the main aim is to enjoy music and have fun. Children are also most welcome. The third Saturday of the month, from 6.30pm to 8.30pm, at 2nd Newport Scouts, 6 Market Street, Newport.

■ https://www.nffc.org.au/ beginner-playalong

Sing with WIllin Wimmin choir

Do you like to sing? Join a supportive and welcoming group of women who sing with heart. The group welcomes anyone who identifies as a woman. No auditions, singing experience or music background necessary. The group meets on Wednesdays during school term, from 7.30pm to 9.30pm, at The Bridge Church hall, 119 Douglas Parade, Williamstown. The first two evenings of attendance are free.

■ www.willinwimmin.org.au

Prep for employment course

Seeking a change in career or how to improve your employability? Receive face-to-face help with job searches, resumes, interviews, upskilling and more in a prep for employment course. Register today. At 43 Mason Street, Newport.

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

Intro to computers course

For beginners and those looking to refresh skills. The computer lab is fully equipped for interactive and hands-on learning. Accessing information, resources, file management, emails, Microsoft Office, AI and online safety. At 43 Mason Street, Newport.

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

Positions vacant

Join the Hobsons Bay Community Fund (HBCF) as a committee member to support and strengthen your local community. It is seeking to fill the treasurer’s role as well as other voluntary positions.

■ eo@hbcommunityfund.org.au

Everyday English language course

For women of all ages and backgrounds with English as a second language. Practice speaking English in different situations, and make new friends. Fridays, 10am-noon. At 43 Mason Street, Newport.

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

Laverton Community Choir

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

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

Altona Girl Guides

Altona Girl Guides currently have vacancies for girls aged five-plus who would like to learn new skills, gain confidence,and expand their friendship circle while having fun.

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

Mouth Organ Band

Yarraville Mouth Organ Band is looking for new members. Band practice is held on Friday evenings at 8pm in the band hall at 203 Williamstown Road, Yarraville. For great music in a friendly atmosphere feel free to call in one Friday evening.

■ Heather 9399 2190 or ymob1933@yahoo.com.au

Drop in chess, cards and Scrabble

If you love playing chess, cards or a game of Scrabble in an informal and fun setting, visit Braybrook Community Centre on Tuesdays, from noon-2.30pm.

Alcoholics Anonymous

Regular meetings of Alcoholics Anonymous are held at St Andrew’s Church Hall, Williamstown, Wednesdays at 7pm, and Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Newport, Thursdays at 6.30pm and Saturdays at 8.30am. All welcome including friends and family of people with drinking problems.

■ 1300 22 22 22, or www.aatimes.org.au

Williamstown Craft Market

Commonwealth Reserve comes alive on the third Sunday of the month for the Williamstown Craft Market. The market boasts more than 50 stalls showcasing everything from handmade craft, homegrown produce and food vendors. There will also be live music. From 10am4pm.

■ www.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/Community/ Whats-On/Williamstown-Craft-Market

Musicians wanted

Do you play woodwind, brass or percussion and are looking for a welcoming place to play enjoyable and challenging music? The Westgate Concert Band is seeking new members. Rehearsals are held Saturdays during school terms, 9am-noon, at Braybrook College.

■ westgateconcertband@gmail.com

Small steps walking group

Are you looking for a fun and social way to stay active? Join the Braybrook Community Hub walking group. Get some fresh air, make new friends and enjoy the benefits of walking. Or join for social connections,

bikkies and a cuppa every Wednesday between 10.30-11.30am.

Wednesday walking group

The Williamstown Community Centre offers a regular Wednesday walking group that walks the local area, 10.15-11am. New members are welcome. This activity is free and includes morning tea.

■ 9397 6168

Meditation for stress management

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

Book sale

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

Laverton Community Education Centre

Laverton Community Education Centre has started free AMEP classes in Williamstown Community Education Centre at the Joan Kirner House, on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, from 9.30am-3pm. Participants can build English, digital and employability skills with the Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP).

■ 9369 2726

Computers, crafts, conversation

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

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

Carers’ walk and talk

A collaboration between the state

This week’s photographer’s choice is of Guy Walter and Michelle Richards from the Lancefield Witches Fair. (Damjan Janevski) 413693_01

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

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

West Footscray Rotary

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

■ Mike, 0417 622 372

Cherry Lake Market

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

■ www.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/Community/ Whats-On/Altona or cherrylakemarket@ gmail.com

Point Gellibrand Rotary Club

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

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

Altona Day View Club

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

Xgenz set to light up Sunshine

By Gerald Lynch

Get set for a night of classic rock hits, as the Xgenz band returns to Sunshine this Friday night.

At the Double Deuce bar in Sunshine North, $10 tickets will be available at the door to experience a show that has been rocking Melbourne’s west for many years.

With drink specials and pool tables, the night is sure to be filled with fun.

Xgenz guitarist and founder Terry Koutsouras said the band loves to play in

Sunshine.

“We are regulars there, we’ve built a great relationship with the venue and the community,” he said.

“We play there every couple of months, we love playing there. We get a crowd of all ages, and we engage with our crowd.

“All our songs are ones you can dance to and sing along to, it’s all about having a good time.”

Xgenz plays exclusively covers of classic rock music, but Terry said no two shows have the same track list

“We are very particular with the songs we

play, and we play to our audience,” he said.

“It’s pointless just playing songs I like, it’s all about what the crowd wants.

“We’re a very energetic group, and we thrive off the crowd. Our music hits you where it counts.”

The band has been around for more than five years, and has seen many personnel changes, but Terry said the current group is among the best ever.

Doors open at 6pm at the Double Deuce bar at 264 McIntyre Road, Sunshine North, on Friday, June 28.

Eynesbury rugs up for a cool festival

The Eynesbury Winter Festival is returning for this year’s school holidays.

HeldattheEynesburyEstateHomestead,the all-ages festival will span from Thursday, June 27, to Sunday, July 14, and boast a variety of activities and special guests.

This includes DJ Lenny Pearce, Olympic gold medalist Steve Hooker, and players from Western United Football Club.

Pearce will play a special opening weekend set at Winter Solstice, which takes place on Saturday, June 29.

Pearce said on a personal level, the occasion had a particular sentiment attached to it.

“I create a lot of my music right here at home

in Eynesbury, and there’s something so unique and special about launching my new album where it all began,” he said.

His debut album, The Wiggles Sound System: Rave of Innocence, is a reimagining of classic Wiggles hits in the form of electronic dance music.

Pearce is not the only one bringing the heat for the Winter Solstice Night – there will also be a fireworks display and giant bonfire.

Kids’ Fun Day, on Saturday, July 6, will be hosted by Hooker and Western United players will engage in a penalty shootout with attendees.

Festival-goers can also expect to enjoy an ice

rink, carnival zone, night market, ice hockey exhibition match, and food trucks.

Resimax Group founder and managing director Ozzie Kheir said the occasion would be a highlight for families and showcase life in the area.

“The Eynesbury Winter Festival is an opportunity for us to share Eynesbury’s unique nature with people across Melbourne and celebrate the growing community we have helped to build here,” he said.

Details: https://eynesbury.com.au/ winter-festival/

Chilly street party to warm up Wyndham

The arrival of winter means a drop in temperatures, but also a spike in fun and entertainment in central Werribee, with Wyndham’s annual Winter Street Party returning on Friday, June 28.

Running from 4pm to 9pm, the 2024 Winter Street Party will take over Watton Street with fire shows, street performers, interactive art installations, marshmallow toasting, live entertainment, kids’ activities and much more. Local creatives will be given a platform to show off their skills, with a winter market featuring 30 local Wyndham artists and

makers and two live music stages featuring Wyndham musicians and performers

A highlight of this year’s event will be Leor, a 4 metre tall marionette that is set to steal the show.Witnessingthismagnificentgiantpuppet come to life is likely to build an appetite, but fortunately hungry patrons won’t have to look hard for a place to eat.

Whether you’re up for a cosy dinner, or prefer to grab a bite on the go, businesses will be open late with special offers and delicious winter dishes to indulge.

To accommodate the wintery fun, there

Winter fun in Williamstown

Winter is coming to Williamstown.

From Friday, June 28 to Sunday, July 14, Commonwealth Reserve and Nelson Place will be the ideal location for a wintry family trip.

With an ice-skating rink and an unmissable view of Melbourne as your background, Commonwealth Reserve will be a sight to behold.

Also at the reserve there will be the HMAS Castlemaine, captivating roving light installations and a DJ for music to set the scene as you skate the night away. Light displays will transform three landmark buildings across Nelson Place every day from 5pm until 10pm. For a bit more extra weekend fun there will be interactive light painting from 7.30pm to 9.30pm each Friday and Saturday for the duration of Winter in Williamstown.

HobsonsBaymayorMattTylersaidthe eventshowcasehowmuchWilliamstown has to offer.

“Williamstown is such a beautiful place at any time of year, but I can’t wait toseeittransformedthiswinter,”hesaid.

“There’s so much to do in Williamstown, from great places to eat and drink and plenty of historic places to visit and explore, and this event is going to shine a new light on what is already one of our city’s most popular places.“So get rugged up and come and explore the beauty of winter in Williamstown.”

Details: experiencehobsonsbay.com

Max Westwood

will be some rolling road closures and traffic management in the run up to the event.

Station Place and sections of Watton Street will be closed to traffic from 6am on Friday, June 28, until 2am on Saturday, June 29.

Access between Bridge Street and Comben Drive will remain open with traffic management in place, while the designated taxi zone in Station Place will be relocated to Comben Drive.

As a result of these road closures, patrons are encouraged to get public transport to the event.

Eddie Russell

Melbourne and the HMAS Castlemaine will provide the perfect backdrop to Winter in Williamstown. (Supplied)

A young girl captivated by the entertainment at last year’s Wyndham Winter Street Party. (Supplied)

Xgenz will play in Sunshine on Friday, June 28. (Supplied)

DJ Lenny Pearce with Chelsea, 4, Mila, 1, Matteo, 1, and Mason, 10, at Eynesbury Homestead. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 413826_01

Public Notice Intention to Enter into a Lease

Rental Increases: 3% increase per annum

10% of the capital expenditure capped at 50% of the total annual rental cost

6. The requirement for the Tenant to develop and provide to Council on or before the second anniversary of the Commencement Date, a transition plan to remove gambling from the premises by 2032, and adhere to the transition plan during the term.

Key Lease Terms during the Further Term, which exclude gaming from the Premises:

7. Further Term: 5 years

8. Permitted Use: Lawn bowls, restaurant & café

9. Rental: Community subsidised rental, to be determined based on criteria within Council’s Lease and Licence Policy

10. Rental Increases: 3% increase per annum or such other or alternate terms as determined to be reasonably necessary by Council’s Chief Executive Officer to conclude negotiations with the Tenant on the proposed lease.

Any person wishing to make a submission on the Proposal must do so in writing to the Manager Governance and Commercial Services within the submission period identified below.

How to Make a Written Submission

Persons making submissions may request to be heard in support of their submissions. Any request to be heard must be clearly stated within the written submission. Any person requesting to be heard is entitled to appear in person or by a person acting on their behalf before a committee appointed consisting of the whole of Council. Hearing of any submissions is to occur on 5 August 2024 at 6:30pm at the Community Hall, Braybrook Community Hub, 107-139 Churchill Avenue, Braybrook. Following the consideration of any submissions, Council will decide whether or not to proceed with the Proposal.

Submissions must be addressed to the Manager Governance and Commercial Services, Maribyrnong City Council, P.O. Box 58 West Footscray 3012 or via governance@maribyrnong.vic.gov.au.

Submissions received will be included within the official Council Agendas and Minutes, including personal information about the submitter’s identity and location. Agendas and Minutes are made available to the public and on Council’s website. If you do not wish to be identified in Agendas and Minutes, please indicate this in your submission. Submission Period: 26 June 2024 to 25 July 2024.

If further information is required, please contact Council’s Property Team, on 9688 0200 or Property@maribyrnong.vic.gov.au.

The weather might be getting cooler, but the action is heating up on the courts and fields. StarWeeklyphotographer Ljubica Vrankovic was out shooting some of the action on Saturday.

Action from around the grounds

1/ Borbor Sam and Nathan Talevski. 414027_02

Melton Phoenix’s Deng Shan_(Ljubica Vrankovic)_414042_15

414042_06

North Sunshine’s Alex Gould. 413385_05

Riddell’s Dylan Podolczak. 414039_18 6/ Riddell’s Maddison Brown. 414038_1 7/ Wallan’s Matthew Perri. 414039_17

Wallan’s Rebekah Konstantopoulos and Riddell’s Fionnuala McKeagney-Stubbs. 414038_02

Western Rams’ Michael Walsh. 413385_01 10/ Westgate’s Melvin Becket. 414027_16

Lexus LBX is small but stylish

By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring

LBX is the Lexus equivalent of the Toyota Yaris Cross, but is it more than that?

With a truncated, low-riding version of the Lexus ‘spindle’ grille, the letters apparently stand for ‘Lexus Breakthrough X(cross)-over’. It’s a Lexus, yes and a crossover, but we’re not sure what makes it a breakthrough.

Sitting below the UX, it is the smallest Lexus to date and only the second model to carry a three-letter name, instead of the usual two letters, after the halo LFA supercar from 2011.

L was reportedly added to the combination to avoid a clash with Citroen which owns the rights to BX, a model the French marque produced from 1982 to 1994 – when it was replaced by the Xantia.

Styling

There are three grades from which to choose, with prices starting from $47,550 plus on-roads for the LBX Luxury 2WD, $52,990 for LBX Sports Luxury 2WD or $56,990 for LBX Sports Luxury AWD.

Our test vehicle was the entry level Luxury grade finished in pearlescent white.

It can be identified by 18-inch alloy wheels with a dark grey and bright machined finish, LED headlights with adaptive high beam, rear spoiler and privacy glass and a two-tone finish.

Inside, the LBX Luxury has black NuLuxe upholstery for the seats, steering wheel, door and instrument panel trim, with contrasting red stitching, front and rear carpet floor mats, heated front seats, two-zone climate air with remote function, wireless phone charging, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, ambient interior lighting, smart entry and start and a powered tailgate.

The front seats are heated with eight-way power adjustment for the driver with two-way lumbar support and memory function.

Sports Luxury adds unique 18-inch wheels and a unique finish on the rear pillar which combines thin strips of gloss and non-gloss finish to create a stylish geometric expression.

Inside, it gains a combination of artificial NuLuxe and Ultrasuede upholstery, suede cloth trim for the door, instrument panel, and console box, and a premium leather shift knob and heated steering wheel.

The higher grade also gains Head-Up Display (HUD) with touch-sensitive steering wheel controls, multi-colour ambient interior lightinganda13-speakerMarkLevinsonaudio and active noise control.

Lexus Teammate advanced park is also included to make parking even easier.

LBX comes standard with a five-year/ unlimited kilometre warranty, plus a three-year complimentary subscription to Lexus Encore which provides exclusive offers withluxuryhotelpartners,invitestoeventsand experiences and fuel discounts at participating Ampol servos.

Infotainment

Multimedia is supported by a 9.8-inch touchscreen display with satellite navigation, paired with a six-speaker Panasonic audio system compatible with wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto.

Up to three users can save their personal settings for the multimedia, vehicle settings and active safety parameters.

There’s wireless charging, three front and two rear USB-C ports, as well as front and rear 12V accessory sockets.

But bear in mind the charge sockets are USB-C, so that old USB-A to -C cable is not going to work.

Engines/transmissions

Thehybridsysteminfront-driveLBXcombines a1.5-litrethree-cylinder,AtkinsonCyclepetrol engine that produces 69kW/185Nm, with a single electric motor that generates a combined output of 100kW.

In comparison, the donor Yaris Cross has a smaller electric motor and delivers

67kW/120Nm, with a peak output of 85kW.

A CVT-style continuously variable auto offers two modes: Eco and Normal.

Safety

As yet the LBX has not been rated for safety by ANCAP.

Lexus Safety System+ provides a comprehensive suite of safety features, including eight airbags, which is designed to help provide protection for drivers, passengers, and other road users.

It’s equipped with the Pre-Collision System (PCS) with Pre-collision Braking (PB), which may be able to detect preceding vehicles, pedestrians and bicyclists in the daytime, as well as oncoming vehicles and motorcycles in the daytime.

A camera mounted on the steering column monitors driver attention.

If, like me, you often drive one-handed, with that hand in the 12 o’clock position, you’ll get in trouble from the system because the camera cannot see your face.

We kid you not. The system may even shut down the car if it becomes really concerned.

Driving

We didn’t get off to a good start with the LBX.

Although the key was in the cabin, it somehow managed to lock itself. Good thing there’s a secret button that can be used to release the doors.

After that hiccup LBX refused to start, as in the electrical system played totally dead - no lights, no nothing.

After jumpering the car, it was finally coaxed into life, but then did the exact same thing a couple of days later. Grrr . . .

It may have been a failing 12-volt battery, but deciding to take no chances we treated the LBX as a plug-in hybrid, connecting it to a trickle charger each time we returned home.

While the 12-volt battery is located under the back seat like my old Beetle, it is possible to charge the car from the fuse box under the bonnet.

Thankfully, there were no further recurrences.

Although the car reports the current state of the hybrid system, the instrumentation does not extend to a monitor for the secondary battery as it has done in many other cars over the years.

The project lead engineer Kunihiko Endo said engineering the car to provide the level of refinement expected from a Lexus was a challenge.

Beingasmallervehiclespacewaslimitedand they had to adopt a different approach to the traditional use of sound insulation.

Does it work? Yes and no.

Back in the day, the V8-powered Lexus LS 400 was the quietest car we had ever driven.

Itwassoquietthatitwasoftendifficulttotell whether the engine was running and we kept double-starting it.

Fast forward and the LBX is not that car.

You cannot escape the fact that this is a small vehicle with a short wheelbase, and the ride tends to be choppy on our second rate roads.

Engine noise is also very apparent under hard acceleration.

The front suspension features a new MacPhersonstrutsetupwithupdatedgeometry to ensure straight-line stability and minimal understeer.

At the rear, front-drive variants use a rigid torsion beam while the AWD variant employs a trailing arm, double wishbone set-up to accommodate the rear motor.

The chassis has been strengthened with multiple braces, short pitch welding techniques and more than 19 metres of structural adhesive to maximise torsional rigidity.

Thebonnetmeanwhileismadeofaluminium to save weight.

The dash from 0-100km/h takes 9.2 seconds and it has a top speed of 170km/h.

Combined fuel consumption from the 36-litre tank is a claimed 3.8L/100km, using standard 91 RON unleaded, with CO2 emissions of 85g/km.

LBX features a bi-polar nickel-metal hydride battery, which Lexus reckons offers much greaterpowerdensityandthroughputpotential than traditional lithium-ion cells.

The nickel-metal hydride battery is

positioned underneath the rear seat.

Aside from electrical problems, LBX feels like a definite step up from Yaris Cross.

The drive experience is generally satisfying, but performance is adequate rather than exhilarating.

Theleather-accentedsteeringwheelisamong the best we’ve used, smooth, chunky and easy on the fingers.

Fuel consumption is good, but higher than expected, at 4.9L/100km after 420km, compared to the manufacturer’s claim of 3.8L/100km.

Two Isofix child seat anchors are offered in the rear, but rear legroom is pretty much non-existent.

The boot however has a larger capacity than expected.

A puncture repair kit is provided in lieu of a spare tyre and wheel.

Of note the infotainment system needs a bit of work.

There’s no home button and no facility to connect to Android Auto if your phone does not automatically re-establish a connection upon re-entering the vehicle.

Wefoundtheoverhead360degreecameraso annoying that we opted to turn it off.

As soon as vehicle speed drops to a crawl, it switchesonobscuringthemaporwhateverelse is on screen. Grrr . . .

The satnav is second rate, offering very little information in regard to street signs and upcoming turns.

We switched to Waze instead. Grrr . . .

Summing up

Sorry, but that’s a no from us. LBX is too small and has too many annoying traits.

In fact, apart from growing its market share, we’re left wondering whether models like the UX and LBX risk eroding the reputation that Lexushasbattledtobuildoverthepast30years or so.

Then again younger drivers recognise and find the styling appealing, so maybe we are just not part of the demographic that Lexus has in its sights.

Chris Riley says LBX is too small and has too many annoying traits. (Pictures: Supplied)

Seagulls claim minor premiership

Williamstown has claimed its first Victorian Football League women’s minor premiership but the work has just begun for the Seagulls.

The Seagulls had done enough entering the final round against Collingwood to make sure they had locked in first place.

They finished the regular season with a win against the Magpies, winning 2.5 (17)-1.1 (7).

Seagulls coach Liam Cavanagh said they were proud to have finished on top.

“I think it’s mixed feelings finishing on top,” he said. “We’re proud and grateful for the season that we’ve had, but we would be disappointed if this was the biggest thing that we had achieved for the year.

‘It’s exciting to get home finals and in particular the double change, we’re in a good position to have a competitive finals series.’

It’s the second straight year the Seagulls have made the finals. Cavanagh said this year is different to 12 months ago when they lost in the first week to Carlton.

“Last year we were on a big wave of

momentum,” he said. “This year we’ve been solid for the whole season.

“We’ve been much more even. The big difference is we get the double chance and minimum two finals.

“We get a lot more experience from those games.”

Cavanagh said the match against Collingwood was one that they would rather forget. He said with nothing on the line, the players probably played like that.

He said that it would give them a bit of humility and that they generally bounce back quickly after a poor performance.

“They are a capable side and made us pay for being a little bit off,” he said. “Our backline was good, especially Erin Meade, Eloise Freeman and Zoe Day.

“We didn’t get enough opportunities to score.”

Cavanagh said Emily Eaves had her best game for the season with 20 possessions along with eight tackles and nine clearances.

Ash Thorneycroft had another strong game, while Molly Simpson in her first game back after a number of weeks out provided a lot of forward pressure.

The Seagulls will face second placed Western Bulldogs on Sunday in the first week of finals, with both teams having the double chance.

Cavanagh said they can’t really look at their result from earlier in the season against the Bulldogs.

“They only finished one game behind us on the ladder,” he said. “We won last time which will give us some confidence, but they have improved a lot since last time.

“It’s a new game.”

The Seagulls’ men lost to Werribee, 12.11 (83)-9.9 (63).

The Seagulls now sit in seventh spot, a game off top.

Tara Murray

Call ups for Falcons duo

By Tara Murray

The City West Falcons continued on their winning ways, while two of their stars made their Suncorp Super Netball debuts on the weekend.

The Falcons kept their winning streak intact intheVictorianNetballLeaguechampionship on Wednesday night beating the Geelong Cougars, 72-55, despite missing some key players.

Coach Marg Lind said they had to rely on their starters for large minutes to get the win.

“We didn’t have Pav [Uneeq Palavi], we didn’t have Lucia [Fauonuku] and we didn’t have Mel [Oloamanu],” she said.

“I thought we were good, we ran the starting seven for most of the game. Chels [Chelsea Imanisani] then came on to rest Mon [Holmes].

“We got her off in the last and changed the two goal attacks over, which was good.”

Lind said she thought they were able to build across the game.

She said Jane Cook started to find a better angle on the hold and we were able to isolate her a bit better.

“I thought Maggie {Lind] and Mon were a lot more patient as the game wore on, that certainly helped,” she said.

“I thought our defence was strong and our attack end is defending really strong and we’re getting turnover on the transverse line with Olivia [Cameron] and Maggie.

“Olivia has added a dogged defensive attitude and she has been good.”

Lind said the decision to add Cameron to the squad late in the mix was vital, with Shimona Jok having played too many quarters to return to the Falcons and Palavi set to be in Sydney for a few weeks.

The win keeps the Falcons’ three games clear at the top of the table, something Lind said was vital with players missing.

“WehaveabitofatightrunwithWednesday, Sunday, Wednesday,” she said. “That will test us and we have to make sure we’re well rested and everyone is in place.”

Oloamanu is set to return this week, while Fauonuku could miss again while they get her right after an injury.

The Falcons under-23s also came away with a good win, beating the Cougars, 58-49. Lind said they had started to clean up their errors and were really starting to get going.

The Falcons now sit in fourth spot, three games clear of the Cougars in fifth.

The Falcons play bottom side Peninsula Waves on Wednesday night before backing it up on Sunday against the North East Blaze.

Falcons fans had one eye on the Suncorp Super Netball competition on the weekend

Williamstown CYMS was able to stick with Old Geelong for a half before being blown away in the Victorian Amateur Football Association premier B competition on Saturday. Coming off their second win of the season, the CYs were keen to continue the momentum.

Old Geelong led by seven points at quarter time with the margin reduced to four points at the main break. Seven goals to one in the third quarter in favour of Old Geelong changed the game and made it hard for the CYs. That momentum continued in the last quarter, with Old Geelong winning, 17.9 (111)-8.2 (50).

Zachary Provest kicked four goals for the CYs and was named their best. Will Smyth and Jordan Busuttil were the other standouts.

The CYs sit second bottom, two games clear of St Bedes-Mentone Tigers. This week the CYs face Old Camberwell.

The CYs women’s side continued on their winning ways, beating St Bedes-Mentone Tigers in the premier B competition.

The CYs took an early lead and increased that to 22 points at half time. They were able to kick the only goal of the third quarter to extend the lead. With the match all but done, it was one goal each in the final quarter, with the CYs winning, 6.9 (45)-2.4 (16).

Loren Mills kicked two goals for the CYs, with Kasey Maddock, Stella Cossey and Jaimi Paten named their best.

The CYs remain a game clear on top. This week the CYs face Old Xavierians on Saturday afternoon.

William Chan. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 405183_13

Eloise Freeman had a good game in defence. (Ljubica Vrankovic)

with Holmes and Palavi both getting call ups. Holmes, who has sat on the bench for the Melbourne Mavericks and Collingwood previously, got her first minutes on Saturday, playing in the second half.

Palavi, who was a training partner for the Mavericks, was called up as a replacement player for the NSW Swifts. She shot 18 goals from 19 attempts in normal time, while also hit three super shots.

Uneeq Palavi made her SSN debut on Sunday. (Robbab Photography)

Chan makes a name for herself in volleyball

Taylors Hill’s Denise Chan is still in the early stages of her volleyball career, but she’s already having a big impact.

Chan discovered volleyball when she was in grade 6 in 2020, but due to COVID-19 she only started club training late in 2021.

Since then it’s been a quick progression, making a couple of state teams before making the Australian team for the Thailand Junior Volleyball Championships earlier this year.

Chan said she’s still stunned by what she has achieved so far.

“It’s amazing,” she said. “I was really surprised when I got the invitation for the Australian team.

“It sort of came out of nowhere, I was so shocked.

Chan was identified at an Australian camp late last year. She didn’t realise they were scouting for a team.

When she was in Thailand she had to show her flexibility on the court.

“The whole team really bonded because we all come from different parts of Australia,” she

said. “We just helped each other get through training and all the games as it was so hot and really different to Australia.

“I had to play a different position to what I normally did. I had to play setter as one of the setters pulled out late.

“It was definitely challenging having to adapt to a different role, but I think I did pretty well as I had a bit of experience setting before.”

Chan said having to play a different role shows her flexibility on the court but she did want to show her skill that she had been working on in her normal position.

The teenager didn’t have much time to rest after getting back from representing Australia, she was in action for Victoria at the School Sports Australia Volleyball Championships earlier this month, with the team winning gold.

She played despite currently carrying an injury.

“It was really fun,” she said. “I was named in the all-Australian team.

“All the coaches chose 12 players in the girls

and in the boy desperately announced at the end of the tournament.

“After each game they would take notes. It was good.”

Still new in her volleyball career, Chan is stunned at how quick she’s been able to progress through the ranks.

She said the move to Maribyrnong Sports Academy had made a big difference.

“Just the last year was crazy,” she said. “I never thought I would play for Australia so fast.

“That [moving to MSA] helped a lot. Going intoanenvironmentwheresportwasapriority as well as school, after school I have training and I have to learn how to balance my time with study and sport.”

Chan said as a kid she always wanted to take a sport pretty far and had done multiple sports growing up.

She said with volleyball she had really found a connection and wants to take it to the highest level possible.

Tara Murray

Grego steps up a notch

By Tara Murray

Western

Jets star Lucca Grego is using the lessons he learned last year to take his game to the next level.

Grego was part of the Vic Metro squad last season as a bottom ager and is again part of the squad this year.

He said he has helped massively for him as he looks to put out some good performances in his draft year.

“Coming in this year, I think it helps with leadership,” he said. “There’s a few kids in the side this year that didn’t play 16s, didn’t play 18s as a bottom ager, to already be there and come up to help these kids just starting their football journey through the talent pathway at metro.

“Playing metro last year has built me up for this year. I’ve done all the building blocks last year and done all the hard work for me to go out and enjoy it last year.”

Game one of the national championships is already under Grego’s belt, where he had 17 possessions.

The teenager said it was very quick in not the best footy conditions.

“It was a lot of fun and I’m keen to play the next three.”

While football is the dream now for Grego, it wasn’t his main focus when he was growing up.

Grego actually made the under-12 Victorian rugbyleagueteamfortheSchoolSportnational championships in 2018.

He told StarWeekly back then, that one of his dreams was to become a professional rugby league player.

“We lived in Queensland for about seven or eight years,” Grego said. “I started playing up there, and definitely was the dream from an early age.

“Being around Melbourne was definitely one reason, my grandfather was a big footy player. He played under-19s for South Melbourne back in the day and was a really good footballer.

“He kind of coaxed me into playing a couple of games for Altona Vikings and then I fell in love with it.”

Grego moved his football out to Bacchus Marsh where he now lives. He was at the Cobras until this year, when he decided to join Essendon District Football League premier side, Keilor.

He is yet to play a game with the Blues due to Coates Talent League and Vic Metro commitments, but Blues coach Mick McGuane is having a big influence on his career.

“He is probably one of the best coaches

that I’ve ever had,” he said. “The way he communicates to all the players and the way he breaks down the game of footy is just unbelievable.

“He is already mentoring me and helping me along the way, what he has done for me know, helpedimmenselyandcankeeponproviding.”’

Grego said he doesn’t model his game on anyone and tries to play like himself. Some people have said he plays like Collingwood premiership player Isaac Quaynor.

Grego is hoping to continue his strong form this season to hear his name called out at the end of the year.

He is currently also juggling year 12, which means he schedules his week every Sunday to make sure he’s got everything planned.

Grego said getting drafted would mean a lot to him. “It would mean everything to me,” he said.“I’veputallthishardworkinthelastthree years and to get drafted would be icing on the cake.

“I’m just focusing on school and footy. I’ve got exams in about 14 weeks, really knuckle down in school and continue to play the good footy I’m playing at the moment.

“Just have fun with it and not take it too seriously. I think everything should fall into place.”

Things are heating up in the Western Football League women’s competition, withthetopfoursidesallequalonpoints.

After 10 rounds, only percentage can separate Werribee Centrals, Caroline Springs, the Suns and Parkside all sit on 28 points.

The four teams faced each other on the weekend.

Caroline Springs got one back against Werribee Centrals, winning 6.4 (40)-3.9 (27).

The Lakers had to do it the hard way, trailing by six points at half time.

A four goal to none third quarter set up the result for the Lakers.

Parkside also moved even with the top sides with a win against the Suns.

It was a strong four quarter performance by the Spurs, who won 12.8 (80)-3.1 (19).

Aleisha Casley kicked five goals for the Spurs, while Deena Bassett and Danielle Marshall kicked three goals each.

Rita Ceravolo and Taquila Angel were named their best.

Werribee Centrals sits on top ahead of Caroline Springs, then the Suns and Parkside with big percentage between each side.

Inothermatches,WestFootscraycame away with a massive win against North Sunshine, winning 14.17 (101)-0.0 (0). Krystyn Raymundo kicked five goals in a standout performance for the Roosters, while Kathleen Gannon and Ashlee Carey were also among the best.

The win was the Roosters fourth for the season.

Wyndhamvale claimed a big win in the other match, beating Laverton 9.16 (70)-2.1 (13).

The Burton sisters, Mariah and Rachael, both had good games for the Falcons.

For the Magpies, Ruth Walker and Ashleigh Pearson were their best.

The Falcons now move to 3-6.

Denise Chan. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 412070_05

Lucca Grego. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 410527_24

Power ready to launch in second half of season

Newport are ready to attack the second half of the Western Football League division 2 season, having set itself up.

The Panthers sit in fourth spot after 10 rounds, with losses to the top two sides.

Coach Rodney Van Riet said it had been a good season so far.

“We are in a good position at the moment,” he said. “We’re in the top four and we have a lot of improvement to go.

“We want to attack the second half of the season.”

Van Riet said the losses to Sunshine and Albion were disappointing, getting to face those sides early in the season had a lot of benefits.

“We get an understanding of where we are at and where we need to improve,” he said. “We want to improve week by week and be peaking at the right time of year.

“We’re looking forward to facing them again in the back half of the season and hopefully in finals.”

On Saturday, the Panthers came away with a strong win against West Footscray.

The Panthers jumped out of the blocks and had the game in hand at half time.

They fell one point short of doubling their score in the second half, running away with a big 22.22 (154)-10.8 (68) win.

Van Riet said it was a good win for the side.

“They are a hard team to beat at home,” he said. “They’ve been travelling really good so we weren’t expecting that margin.

“Wewerehappytowalkawaywiththatwin.”

Josh Rafferty kicked six goals, while Jackson Fullerton kicked four.

It was 15-year-old Khaled El Souki on debut, who kicked three goals, who impressed the coach the most.

Van Riet said with so much depth in the club they were keen to give plenty of players opportunities in the senior side.

“The 18s are going from strength to strength,” he said. “We’ve got some good young kids coming through.

“We’ve got strength in the reserves as well

Ragheb keen to improve

By Peter Howe

Taye Ragheb has a lot to be excited about over the next couple of months.

The rising taekwondo star will watch on with anticipation as two of his coaches Leon SejranovicandStaceyHymeralongwithBailey Lewis will represent Australia at the Olympics.

“I am absolutely over the moon with excitement, my adrenaline is pumping,” he said.“Itrainwiththesepeopleeveryweek,they are so amazing.

“They are my sporting heroes.”

The teenager is hoping that will be him one day.

Ragheb started taekwondo when he was just six. His mum wanted him to do a sport. He tried soccer, footy and even gymnastics but it was only when he tried martial arts that he became an instant fan.

“As a six-year-old I loved the challenge of getting better and being able to show my strength,” he said.

“I was very competitive and loved being able to improve. When I started winning medals in competitions I liked it even more.”

Ragheb, like all youngsters, was initiated into taekwondo and had to learn Poomsae first. Poomsae is the non-combative arm of

taekwondo where you learn the movements that you take into the combat arm.

He was eager to put the pads on and fight someone.

Ragheb was seven when won a silver medal at his first fight at the Victorian state competition. From there he went on to win his first Victorian state title and has medalled at every competition in Australia since.

He is currently the 2023 senior under-68 kilogram bronze medallist, having won the 2022 under-73 kilogram gold medal.

Ragheb attends the Maribyrnong Sports Academy coached by Sejranovic where he spends six hours a week training.

He then heads to the Victorian Institute of Sport three times per week for his performance pathway training and then his club training at Notorious Taekwondo a further three nights per week.

“Notorious is my second home and my coaches and fellow athletes are my family,” he said. “I spend up to 15 hours a week training and honing my skills. Taekwondo has taught methevaluesofrespect,discipline,gratefulness and humility.”

Combinehisrigoroustrainingschedulewith year 12 study, there’s a high commitment and and discipline required to sustain high levels of

and we’ve looked to bring a few guys on the precipice to develop them as senior footballers for years to come.”

For West Footscray, Eyob Gebreselassie, Jaycob Doyle and Will Clare were named their best.

The Panthers will have a big test this week, facing third placed Wyndhamvale.

The Falcons only loss has come to Sunshine.

“The game will give us a good idea of where we are at,” he said. “It’ll be a tough hard fought game.

“Myself and the whole club are looking forward to it.”

Braybrook was among the other winners in division 2.

In division 1, Spotswood lost to Hoppers Crossing and Parkside beat Point Cook.

Briefs

VPL

Altona City’s tough run in the Victorian Premier League 2 competition continued on Friday night. Having failed to get a win in its last three games, Altona City was again on the wrong side of the result, this time losing to Doveton 2-1. Altona City has now slipped to fourth on the table, six points behind leaders North Sunshine Eagles. Altona City will host Box Hill United this week.

NPL

Altona Magic had a tough night out against South Melbourne on Friday night in the National Premier League competition. South Melbourne flexed its strength and was able to come away with a 4-1 win after leading 1-0 at half time. The result has the Magic slip to 10th spot ahead of a clash with the Port Melbourne Sharks on Saturday. The Magic is at home to Avondale this Saturday.

Big V

performance.

“I have Sunday off where I catch up on my studyandmyrest,otherwiseitisjustgo,gogo,” he said.

“But I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

Ragheb has travelled to two overseas competitions.Thefirsthetookplentyoflessons outofit,fightingsomeexperiencedfighters,the second he won his first international fight.

Ragheb said he is unsure what he wants to do at the end of year 12 in terms of a career, but one thing is clear.

“I do know it will need to fit in with my goal of representing Australia at the next Olympics in the USA in 2028 and then Brisbane in 2032,” he said. “I am looking forward to the national championships later this year. Many overseas competitors travel to the tournament, and I get another opportunity to improve my skills and hopefully medal.

Ragheb is this month’s Don Deeble sports award nominee.

The award is sponsored by the Yarraville Club Cricket Club, Strathmore Community Bank, the Deer Park Club, Ascot Vale Sports and Trophies and StarWeekly

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

The Altona Gators fell short against ladder leaders, the RMIT Redbacks in the Big V men’s division 1 competition. The Redbacks did the damage in the middle two quarters before going on to win, 93-84. The Gators sit in sixth spot on the ladder. In women’s division 1, the Gators had an 86-57 win. The Gators sit in fourth spot,

FV

Yarraville Glory had a hard fought win against Ballarat City in the FV state league 1 north-west on Saturday. Ballarat led 2-1 at half time before the Glory hit back in the second half to claim a 4-3 win.Alexander Sami scored a hat trick for the Glory. The win moves the Glory to eighth on the ladder. In state league 2 north-west Altona East Phoenix beat Hume United 3-1 on Friday, while in state league 3 north-west, Altona North had a 0-0 draw and Williamstown beat the Western Eagles, 1-0.

Tara Murray

Taye Ragheb in action at the 2022 Australian National Championships in Queensland. (Australian Taekwondo)

Kamal Badra. (Jacob Pattison)346086_04

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