Star Weekly - Wyndham - 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 acrossAustralia.

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 withdisabilities.

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 anddeathfromcervicalcancer.

The Cancer Council details that self-collectioniswhenawomanorpersonwith 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 offeredtocollectthesample.

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-datewiththeirscreening.

GenWest sexual and reproductive health team leader Sarah Lorrimar said the initiative willhelptobridgethegapincervicalscreening participationamongdiversepopulations.

“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 mostpleasantexperiencebutthenthere’sother

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 senseofsafety,comfort,andcontrol.”

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

■ Continued: Page 6.

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

Questions over housing target

By Cade Lucas

The state government’s plan to build 120,000 homes in Wyndham by mid-century must be accompanied by funding for supporting infrastructure,accordingtothemunicipality’s deputy mayor.

On Sunday, June 16, Premier Jacinta Allan and Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny announced the government’s proposed 2051 housingtarget,promisingtobuildtwomillion homes across metropolitan Melbourne and another 500,000 in the regions.

Under the draft plan, 120,000 of those

homes would be built in Wyndham, the secondhighesttargetamonglocalgovernment areas in Melbourne. Wyndham council’s own population forecast is for 500,000 to be living in the municipality by 2040.

Speaking on behalf of the council, Cr Josh Gilligan said Wyndham was struggling to provideinfrastructuretomeetthispopulation forecast, let alone an even larger one.

“Wyndham has a liveability crisis. We’ve been pleading to the state to focus on funding the basic infrastructure and services now before adding on 120,000 more dwellings,” he said. “Wyndham council is not properly

funded by the state to handle the pressure of a 110 per cent increase in housing, with more than 600,000 living within our borders.”

Cr Gilligan criticised the lack of detail in the government’s announcement about the supporting infrastructure needed and how it would be funded.

“More housing means more roads, more community centres and libraries, maternal health services, schools, local parks and playgrounds,sportsfacilities,artsandcultural infrastructure, waste management and a whole range of other services and programs,” he said.

Hoppers Junction gets a facelift

Commuters at Hoppers Crossing Station will notice the nearby shopping strip looking more inviting than in the past, thanks to a recently completed update of the Hoppers Junction business precinct.

Funded by Wyndham council, a pilot shopfront improvement project involving eight Hoppers Junction businesses has resulted in upgraded signage and an improved street presence that store owners hope will attract more customers.

Wyndham mayor Jennie Barrera said the improvements had made the shopping precinct more welcoming and appealing.

“We are encouraging residents to support local businesses in Hoppers Junction,” Cr Barrera said.

“When we create great vibrant spaces where people want to shop and dine it’s a win-win –

it’s great for customers, it’s great for businesses and builds the resilience of our local economy. We understand that running a small business can be challenging. Projects like this can re-energise businesses that might otherwise lack the time and resources to enhance their offerings and improve the presentation of their shop fronts. “The Hoppers Junction precinct includes a bustling mix of small hospitality, shopping and service-based businesses and it’s fantastic to see this precinct continue to evolve and build on the customer experience.”

Among the businesses that participated in the shopfront improvement project was cafe, Jock and Mack.

“This project gave us a chance to get creative and not only enhance our cafe frontage, but alsotoenhanceourcustomers’experiencewith us,” said cafe owner, Aimee Helu.

“A housing target that lacks any honest commitment to basic access to education, health and jobs is a pox on all our houses.”

In response, a spokesperson for the state government said details over infrastructure funding would be worked out in future consultations with councils.

“The status quo is not an option – we need every council to work with us towards the same goal: more homes for Victorians in the right places.”

Final housing targets for each council area are expected to be released by the end of the year.

Bags of colour at festival

This year’s Wyndham Learning Festival will come with an extra dash of colour and creativity courtesy of two local artists.

Artwork from local creatives Tia Misquitta and Bea Payla will feature on 5000 official tote bags produced for the festival which runs from September 1 to 7.

Tia and Bea’s images were chosen from entries to the 2023 Way Out West photographycompetitionandWyndham councillor Jasmina Hill said they were appropriate for this year’s festival.

“The theme this year is Empowering CommunitiesthroughLifelongLearning and supporting two local creatives connects directly with this theme,” she said.

“We worked with an experienced creative team who guided us along the way giving us all the options as to what was possible and what would visually be appealing.”

Ms Helu said having the creative team work on the shopfront also afforded her more mental space to focus on other areas of the business such as sales, service, bookkeeping and cleaning. She said customers had already begun to notice the difference.

“The extra detail makes it so much more inviting and they love that they can interact with the various points in our display, for example the doggie selfie area and the floor design that says ’start your day here’ where you can snap a pic with your kicks.”

Details: https://www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/ events-experiences/hoppers-junction

Cade Lucas

Misquitta is a 14-year-old student from Williams Landing with a passion for photography and books and uses photography to explore her self-expression. Her image Love for Books was inspired by her favourite books including the Tom Gates series.

Bea’s image The Colour Thief was the second image selected. The 17-year-old student from Upper Point Cook commencedherjourneyintotherealmof art and creativity with a visit to Bendigo during Chinese New Year festivities. Armed with her camera, Bea captured the vibrant hues and lively spirit of the Easter Festival parade.

The Wyndham Learning Festival bags will be printed with the image on one side, and the festival logo on the other and are reusable.

The 2024 festival will be launched by Dr Karl at Encore Events Centre August 31. Details: wynlearnfestival.org.au

Man charged with fraud

ATruganinamanhasbeenchargedforallegedly defrauding a 92-year-old East Geelong woman of more than $15,000.

The 27-year-old allegedly rang the woman on April 30 and claimed to be an Australian Bank employee before he requested her PIN and bank card in an envelope with her name on it.

The man then allegedly attended the older woman’s address, collected the bank card from her letterbox and used the card at a Corio shopping centre and multiple Melbourne finance institutions.

Policeexecutedasearchwarrantattheman’s Truganina address on Thursday, June 13, and seized more than $17,000 of stolen goods, including 10 bank cards, five smartphones, six smartphone vouchers, and $3750 in cash.

The man was arrested and later charged with close to 15 dishonesty-related charges,

including obtaining property by deception and dealing with proceeds of crime.

He has been bailed to appear at Werribee Magistrates’ Court on November 14, with investigators inquiring to identify any further victims concerning the investigation.

Geelong Crime Investigation Unit detective senior sergeant Mark Guthrie said he encouraged anyone who may have been a victim of fraud to speak with police.

“We encourage anyone who has been subject to any type of scam to speak to police,” he said.

“Preying on the most vulnerable among us is a particularly heartless crime, and we remain steadfast in our commitment to pursuing anyone involved in financial fraud.”

Anyone with information on fraudulent activity is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential crime report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au

Wyndham mayor Jennie Barrera and Eden Helu owner of ‘Jack and Mack’ café at the rejuvinated Hoppers Junction shopping strip. (Damjan

Janevski) 414581_01

Theft blamed for a rise in crime

By Cade Lucas

A rise in car and retail theft is being blamed for Wyndham recording an increase in crime over the past 12 months.

According to data released by the Crime Statistics Agency on Thursday, crime in Wyndham rose by 3.8 per cent for the year to March 2024, with 18,838 offences recorded compared to 18,143 to the same point in 2023.

Despite declining compared to the previous year, stealing from a motor vehicle was still the most common offence in the municipality, with 2155 compared to 2172 for the previous year.

Other theft continued to rise though, with 2093 offences recorded, up from 1903.

Breach of family violence orders (1653) and

criminal damage (1535) were the next most common, but both were down on the previous year.

However, motor vehicle theft rose from 796 to 953 to round out the top five offence categories.

A spokesperson for Victoria Police warned Wyndham residents to be extra vigilant in securing their vehicles.

“What we know is offenders roam up and down streets and until they find an unlocked vehicle. In Wyndham alone, more than half of vehicles targeted are unlocked,” the spokesperson said.

“While our vehicle crime reduction team works tirelessly to detect and investigate thefts, we are urging the community to help us help them. That means always locking

your vehicle, even if it’s in a secure driveway, because if there is less opportunity for theft it is less likely to occur.”

Werribee remained the suburb with the most offences, recording 5276, up from 5115 to March last year, and more than 2000 ahead of second placed Hoppers Crossing on 3041.

Close behind in third was Tarneit which roseto2998,anincreaseofnearly600offences across the year to March.

Point Cook (2376) and Truganina (1435) finished fourth and fifth.

Houses were once again by far the most common location for crime, though the number of recorded offences dropped to 6818, more than 400 less than 7239 to March 2023.

That total was still more than 4000 ahead of streets/lanes/footapths where 2452 offences

Mona’s Monday birthday milestone

Wyndham Lodge resident Mona Cottee will bring in the new financial year next week with a major milestone.

Monday, July 1 will be the 100th birthday for the mother of three, grandmother of six and great grandmother of 11.

Born Mona Jean Miles in the Gippsland town of Tarwin Meadows in 1924, she was the youngest of five children from Walter and Edith Miles, who migrated from England 15 years earlier.

The family moved to a dairy farm at Ryton in 1928 and at aged 14, Mona left school to help milk the cows.

In 1940 the family moved to another farm at Bacchus Marsh and Mona found work as a housekeeper for a local bank manager and

then as a cattle agent, before she and her father both got jobs at the Williamstown railway workshop.

The family moved nearby and with the onsetoftheSecondWorldWar, Monaandher father soon found themselves contributing to the war effort as the railway workshops were converted to build planes for the air force.

After the war, Mona was working as a cutter at Bendans knitting mill in Carlton when a trip to the dances with her sister Sylvia, proved life-changing.

The sisters attended a dance at the Presbyterian Church hall on Collins Street, where Mona caught the eye of Ronald Cottee.

They married in 1947 and remained together until Ronald’s death in 2005.

Lodge three years ago, aged 97.

into

were recorded, up 96, while driveways/ carports, shopping complexes and other retail sites all recorded under a thousand offences each.

Family violence incidents in Wyndham marginally improved, down 0.4 per cent for the year, from 4459 in March 2023 to 4442 in 2024.

However, a Victoria Police spokesperson said this figure was still a cause for concern.

“The number of family violence order breaches continues to remain high as police continue to proactively target perpetrators and hold them to account,” the spokesperson said.

“Our message to those experiencing family violence is clear – when you are ready to come forward, we will be here to listen and support you.”

They lived in Laurie Street, Newport, in a house they built after buying the block for 85 pounds. Mona lived there until moving

Wyndham

Cade Lucas

Wyndham Lodge resident Mona Cottee will celebrate her 100th birthday on July 1. (Supplied) 415350_01

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 bykickingagoal(AFL)foreverydollarraised.

“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)

Tarneit’s puddle problem

By Cade Lucas

Wyndham council has conceded there is still no timeline for fixing a flood prone section of Dohertys Road in Tarneit, despite committing to an upgrade more than two years ago.

In April 2022, Wyndham council announced that pre-design works were under way to upgrade the section of road crossing Dry Creek where a large puddle forms whenever it rains, often remaining there for days afterwards.

Yet two years on and with a large pool of water once again covering the section of Dohertys Road just west of the intersection with Derrimut Road, council said there was still no start date for when upgrade works would begin.

“In terms of Dohertys Road near Dry Creek,

that section of road is currently on Wyndham City’scapitalworksprogramandisintheearly design phase,” a spokesperson for Wyndham council told StarWeekly

The delay is frustrating for local residents and business people such as real estate agent Safat Ali who has been selling properties in the area for more than a decade and has to regularly drive through the puddle.

“There’s two dips there on Dohertys Road that become like a river when it rains,” Mr Ali said.

“There’skidsgoingtoschool,peoplegoingto workandthewaterisdeepandit’sdangerous,” hesaid,addingthatthepuddlesometimesgets so deep that the road has to be closed.

Even when it remains open, Mr Ali said drivers seeking alternate routes to avoid the puddle made the area’s already congested

traffic, even worse.

“They start coming through Tarneit Road to Maddern Boulevard, Madden Boulevard to Polly Parade, Polly Parade to Sappling Boulevard where they come back out onto Dohertys Road again. If there’s water (in the puddle) it takes about half an hour to come out of Sappling Boulevard onto Dohertys Road, whereas normally it takes less than a minute.”

Mr Ali is part of a group of local residents andbusinessmen,includingformerWyndham councillor and property developer Intaj Khan, who are campaigning for works on improving Dry Creek crossing to be expedited, arguing they’ve taken too long.

“The duplication is overdue for this road,” he said.

“We demand a bridge or another road here to stop the flooding.”

Intersection upgrade starts

The upgrade of a notorious Point Cook intersection is finally about to get under way. The intersection of Point Cook and Sneydes roads has long been a concern for local residents due to the amount of traffic congestion and car accidents that have occurred there. But after repeated delays, and months of pre-construction work, the installation of traffic lights, pedestrian crossings and extra lanes are set to start in the next week.

“Delivering lights and duplicating PointCookRoadatthisintersectionwill make it safer for every road user at this intersection, and seeing the final works begin is terrific,” said Point Cook MP Mathew Hilakari. “Thank you to every member of our community for their patience and careful driving during the delivery of these works.”

In order for major construction works to be done, traffic management will be set up and changes made along Point Cook Road between the Jamieson Way/ Sanctuary Lakes Boulevard roundabout and Gramercy Boulevard, to help create a safe works area for construction crews while still allowing two-way traffic.

To reduce traffic disruption, these works will be done at night between 8pm and 5am. Residents are advised that there will be some lane closures and reduced speed limits along Point Cook Road and there will be low to medium noise from machinery. Night works are expected to last for one week and once complete, construction will revert to 7am to 6pm, Monday to Friday.

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Tarneit locals (from left) Arif Kabir, Intaj Khan, Syed Summy, Rana Samama Taj and Safwat Aliare are campaigning for a stretch of Dohertys Road to be fixed because it repeatedly floods and large puddles form after rain. (Damjan Janevski) 413085_09

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 cancerscreeningtoolateandputupwithwhat 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 thatpays doctors better tohave

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

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)

■ From page 1.

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

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.

‘‘ It is nice to hold that space for someone, to

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

Photos and football

Refugee Week might have officially come to an end on Friday, but the celebrations and commemorations are continuing on in Wyndham, thanks to migrant support service, MiCare.

Thenot-for-profitisholdingaphotoexpoon June26andamulticulturalsoccertournament on July 1 as part of its Builder Leader program which helps young refugees and migrants gain experience organising events.

MiCare youth settlement worker Silvia Gonzalez said the organisation thought a photo expo would provide young people with the opportunity to show others how they have settles in their new community.

As well as providing them with experience in organising events, Ms Gonzalez said the expo allowed the participants to develop their photography skills.

“We provided them with a disposable camera which has 27 shots in it and given they’ve never used them before, we thought it would be a good experience to not know what the photos look like before they develop them,” she said.

Once the expo is finished, the participants will turn their attention to organising the multicultural football tournament.

“In the past when we’ve had events such as this, we’ve had over 500 people present on the day, so we’re hoping to have a similar turnout this time,” said Ms Gonzalez of the tournament which will be held at Ironbark Fields in Tarneit.

The photo expo runs from 6pm to 7.30pm at the Youth Resource Centre in Hoppers Crossing.

Briefs

Fatal fire

A person died in caravan fire in Laverton North on Sunday. Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) personnel responded to a fire in a caravan park in Leakes Road about 6.30pm on June 23. Crews arrived to find a caravan fully alight with reports from bystanders that someone was inside. During a search of the burnt out remains, firefighters located the body of one deceased person. The cause of the fire is being investigated by Victoria Police and FRV.

Attempted carjacking

Police arrested a man following an alleged attempted carjacking in Werribee on June 23. Officers allegedly observed the man riding an unregistered motorbike near the intersection of Princes Highway and Tarneit Road just before 4.30pm. It is alleged the rider got off the motorbike and began to flee, before unsuccessfully attempting to get into the victim’s Ford Falcon sedan. The 19-year-old Werribee man was then arrested and taken into custody where he is currently assisting police with inquiries. The driver of the Ford Falcon was not injured during the incident.

FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Wyndham Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Micare’s Silvia Gonzalez (left) with participants Rosey, Thaw, Da Meh and Silver, who are running a photo expo and multicultural soccer tournament for refugee week. (Damjan Janevski) 414576_01

Dig deep during winter

By Cade Lucas

One of Wyndham’s major emergency support providers is appealing for community assistance following a dramatic increase in demand for its services in the past year.

Uniting Vic.Tas is launching its 2024 ‘ Share the Warmth’ winter appeal to raise funds so clothing, food and a safe place to stay can be provided to those in need.

The charity provider claims that demand for its services has risen by 70 per cent in the past 12 months, including a significant surge in online inquiries for financial counselling (up 173 per cent), bills assistance (up 35 per cent) and food vouchers (up 21 per cent).

According to Uniting Vic.Tas senior manager, Becky Herridge, Wyndham and surrounding council areas were among those worst affected.

“We’re experiencing growing demand from families in crisis right across the western and north-western suburbs,” Ms Herridge said.

“The cost of living is really biting and we’re seeing people who we’ve never seen before, people who can’t afford to live, people who might be working and have jobs, but who just can’t make ends meet and put food on the table for their families.

“We’re really calling on people from our community, we know so many people are struggling right now, but if you have the capacity, please consider donating to Uniting Vic.Tas 2024 Winter Appeal.”

Uniting has emergency relief services offering support to people in crisis in Werribee, Broadmeadows and Footscray.

Among those who can vouch for the benefit of such support is Stacie, who sought assistance from Uniting when struggling to find housing with limited rental history.

“Uniting helped me into a short-term

transitional home providing stability to raise my child safely,” Stacie said.

“Without Uniting, I’d probably be (living) in a caravan park.”

With help from Uniting, Stacie built a positive rental history and secured a home for her family.

“The best part about my new home is the stability (it provides), ” she added.

“It’s a place where my son can grow without having to move constantly - it puts us at ease.“

Details: https://www.unitingvictas.org.au/ winter/

Par is a top volunteer

Parniyan Kohzad has been named Wyndham’s Volunteer of the Month for June. Ms Kohzad started her volunteering journey in October 2017 at the Hoppers Crossing Vinnies op shop, enriching lives with her caring spirit. After moving from Afghanistan and workinginchildcareMsKohzad,known locally as Par, found deep fulfillment in giving back to her community through volunteering.

Though English is not her first language, she was eager to learn and quickly found her niche in the accessories department. Ms Kohzad carefully prepares the shop’s selection of scarves, belts, hats and gloves for sale. However, Ms Kohzhad’s impact extends far beyond tidying – she brings joy to everyone she interacts with through her warm personality and thoughtful service.

“The best thing is making people happy,“ she said.

One of her most cherished memories was assisting a young lady with a disability to try on scarves. Seeing the woman’s gratitude and delight filled Ms Kohzhad with immense satisfaction.

Volunteering allows her leave any personal troubles behind and embrace a welcoming, supportive environment. Shop manager Sue remarks, “She comes incheerful,evenwhenfacingdifficulties … voicing a concern, then saying ‘This is what I can do.’ Parniyan’s resilient spirit and enthusiasm for helping others make her an invaluable volunteer in our team.”

Uniting Vic.Tas staff (from left) Nikol Tap, Maddy Farnaby and Betty Baker help launch the ‘Share the Warmth’ Winter Appeal. (Damjan Janevski) 414817_03

Prison Supervisor Corey - Barwon Prison (left) and Prison Officer Eric - Metropolitan Remand Centre (right) share their stories.

Club Tarneit: A new community favourite for Wyndham

In just four short weeks since opening, Club Tarneit has quickly become a beloved hub for the local community.

The overwhelming response has been incredible, with the bistro repeatedly booked out,atestamenttothesupportandenthusiasm from the wonderful patrons.

General manager Tanya Inkret has been completely overwhelmed by the level of interest in the beautiful venue.

“To see so many smiling faces has made all

the hard work worthwhile. We could not be happier to finally share Club Tarneit with our beautiful community,” said Ms Inkret.

Every Tuesday and Thursday night, from 5.30-7.30pm, Club Tarneit offers free face painting and balloon animals for local families in the bistro. These fun-filled evenings have become a highlight for both kids and parents, making dining out a truly enjoyable experience for all ages.

The state-of-the-art function space at Club

Tarneit is attracting significant attention, with inquiries pouring in. There’s truly nothing else like it in the Wyndham area. Whether you’re planning a wedding, corporate event, or birthday party, Club Tarneit offers a unique and stylish venue that caters to all needs.

For residents of Wyndham Vale, visiting Club Tarneit is incredibly convenient. Patrons can leave their cars at home and hop on the V/Line – it’s only a seven-minute journey to Tarneit Station, followed by a short walk to the

venue. This easy access ensures everyone can enjoy all that Club Tarneit has to offer without the hassle of driving.

Club Tarneit invites everyone to come and experiencethedifference.Withsuchafantastic start, the team looks forward to continuing to serve and delight the community for years to come.

The first few weeks have been special, and Inkret promises that there is plenty more to look forward to – “the best is still to come!”

The Club Tarneit team.

MY PLACE

Werribee’s Mariamo Mitungi is a young Muslim woman who is a finalist in this November’s Miss Diverse Australia competition, a beauty pageant that celebrates women of different sizes, shapes, ages, religions and cultures. She tells Cade Lucas about her life in Wyndham.

What’s your connection to Wyndham?

After living in Brimbank city for a few years, myfamilyandIdecidedtomovetoWyndham, where I currently reside.

Wyndham has been our preferred area to live because I find it not as loud as other areas.

There’s more air and space to breath in, and it’s not as busy, despite it becoming bigger throughout the years.

What do you like about where you live? Werribee has many perks, but my personal favourite attraction in the area is the gardens in Werribee South.

As a model, it is the perfect setting for outdoor photoshoots and the best excuse for picnics due to its grounding energy and inviting atmosphere of beautiful scenery.

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

If anything, a more concrete upgrade to Pacific Werribee would be ideal, including a widervarietyofclothingstoresforalldifferent fashion trends and cultural diversity for all members of the community.

Where is your favourite local place to spend time?

Wyndham provides many favourite places that I enjoy spending my time.

The Werribee Library brings an atmosphere of solitude and as someone who enjoys peace and quiet for some “me time” with its selection of audio books, it’s definitely one of my favourites, though my busy schedules stops me from going there as much as I would like to.

Aside from the library, Wyndham’s parks

are a favourite too.

I love being in nature, especially parks that providesceneryperfectforpicsandmemories. Tell us something people would be surprised

to know about you?

Most people would be surprised to know that I am currently a finalist as a pageantry model competing in two beauty pageants. I also have developed a great memory as a way to balance out being someone who has dyslexia.

Werribee’s Mariamo Mitungi is a finalist in the Miss Diverse Australia pageant in November. (Damjan Janevski) 414791_05

Nursing student

Kylie

Thirteen tobacco trade arrests

By Cade Lucas

Thirteenpeoplehavebeenarrestedandmultiple properties raided as part of a cross-border investigation into an organised crime group linked to the illicit tobacco trade.

As part of the joint operation with West Australian Police, the WA Department of Health and Australian Border Force, Victorian police executed six warrants on Monday, June 17, at residential properties in Werribee, Sunbury, Wollert, Collingwood, and Altona Meadows.

Police seized 15 firearms from the Sunbury address, along with illicit cigarettes, a gel blaster and a stolen vehicle.

The cigarettes are valued at approximately

$2.4 million with a tax excise avoidance of between $2.5-3 million.

A 29-year-old Sunbury man was arrested at the property and subsequently charged with being a prohibited person in possession of firearms, theft of motor vehicle, possessing a traffickable quantity of firearms and Commonwealth tax offences relating to illicit cigarettes.

He was remanded in custody to face Melbourne Magistrates Court on September 20.

A further 50,000 illicit cigarettes, 30 kilograms of loose tobacco, vapes, a crossbow, ammunition, cash and drugs including cocaine, steroids and magic mushrooms were seized from other addresses.

Police also arrested a 26-year-old Wollert manwhoisexpectedtobechargedonsummons with illicit tobacco offences and weapons offences, and a 28-year-old Collingwood man who was charged with drug and proceeds of crime offences. The latter was bailed to appear at Melbourne Magistrates Court on September 4.

A 19-year-old Officer man was arrested in relation to the investigation into a suspicious fire at a tobacco store in Seville on February 11. He was interviewed and released pending further inquiries.

Victoria Police anti-gangs division Detective Acting Superintendent Mark Hatt said they had been working with WA and federal authorities for the past 18 months to tackle

Drawings promote active travel

Students at Dohertys Creek P-9 College in Truganina have been demonstrating their artistic talent to promote active travel.

The college recently held an active travel art competition which encouraged students to create artwork that promotes active travel with an environmentally-friendly focus that can be printed on posters and attached to the school fences.

The competition was a joint initiative of the school and Wyndham council, with Dohertys Creek principal, Tammy-Jo Richter, and PE teacher, Neville Stephens, working closely with council’s sustainable transport officer to

bring it to fruition. As part of the competition, designs were submitted by students from prep to year 7 and a winner from each year level was chosen.

The winners of the competition were: prep – Vihaan, year 1 – Elina, year 2 – Kyrie, year 3 – Anshika, year 4 – Aarish, year 5 - Aadhya, year 6 – Jazlynn and year 7 – Fizaa.

Wyndham councillor Adele Hegedich recently visited the college to hand out certificates to the winners.

The successful students also received prize packs including gift cards, water bottles and funky shoelaces.

The winning designs will be printed on to posters and attached to the school fence located along Elmhurst Road in the coming weeks for everyone to see.

Dohertys Creek P-9 College currently has 35 per cent of students actively travelling to school each day and is one of a number of schools supported by Wyndham council to promote active travel and other initiatives designed to achieve better health outcomes.

Active travel is known to have a range of positive health benefits for students including enhanced concentration, improved physical healthandincreasedcommunityconnections.

organised crime groups involved in the illicit tobacco trade.

“ThereisnodoubtthatthearrestsinVictoria and Western Australia this week will have a significant impact on the organised crime groups operating in Victoria.”

As part of the cross border operation, WA Police charged seven men and two women, in relation to a $10 million illicit tobacco network operating out of the state.

The head of the group in Western Australia - a 29-year-old man previously from Victoria –is believed to have moved to WA in the last two years to establish the illicit tobacco network.

The investigation into the network in Victoria and in Western Australia remains ongoing.

Have a say on library

Wyndhamresidentsarebeingreminded to have their say on the possible relocation of Werribee Library. Wyndham council are proposing to move the library from its current location on Watton Street to the Hunter BuildingonSynnotStreetandisseeking community feedback on the idea until July 1.

The Hunter Building is the tallest building in Werribee and under the council proposal, the new library would take over the entire seventh floor and have four times more space than at its current location. Wyndham mayor Jennie Barrera said the community had outgrown the current Werribee Library.

“We’d be able to offer more people the opportunity to attend programs, expanding attendance to fit the increased space,” said Cr Barrera of what the new library would offer.

“We’refortunatetohaveanalternative space close to shops, parks and other services – and that remains in our city centre.It’samodernbuilding,filledwith light from the floor to ceiling windows that offer views across Wyndham, it also features the impressive First Nations large scale mural, Mooroop Yarkeen, which translates to ‘Spirit Dreaming’.”

If the relocation goes ahead, the numberofpeopleabletovisitthelibrary at any one time would rise from 60 to 200 and there would be space for more computers, study rooms, multi-use activity and program rooms and dedicated youth and children’s areas.

Details: https://theloop.wyndham.vic. gov.au

Wyndham councillor Adele Hegedich, students Aarish, Aadhya, Vihaan, Elina, Dohertys Creek principal Tami-Jo Richter, PE teacher Neville Stephens and students Jazlynn, Anshika and Kyrie (Ljubica Vrankovic)_413533_03

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 nine letters in the grid, how

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

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?

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

Frog v killer fungus

Frog v killer fungus: Winning the battle but losing the war? University of Melbourne’s science faculty invites community members to the Dean’s Lecture on how scientists are helping to protect native Australian events from the killer amphibian chytrid fungus. It’s on June 26, from 6-8.30pm, at the learning and teaching building, Werribee campus, 50 Princess Highway, Werribee. ■ science-events@unimelb.edu.au

Werribee Jazz Club

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

Drumming classes

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

Wyndham Ladies Probus

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

■ Pat, 0411 316 795

Laverton Community Choir

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

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

Watton Group

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

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

All Abilities Netball

All Abilities Netball for 10-to-25-year-olds is run by Wyndham Netball Association every Saturday morning during school terms, from 10.30am, on outside court 14 at Eagle Stadium, Ballan Road, Werribee. Intellectual, physical and social disabilities are catered for in a fun and supported group. Come and try your first session for free, with stadium entry $2.

■ Phil, 0437 078 739

Point Cook VIEW

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

■ Catherine, 0407 726 852

Walking Netball

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

■ Phil, 0437 078 739

Wyndham Rotary

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

■ Julie, 0406 196 630

With One Voice Wyndham Choir

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

■ wyndham@withonevoice.org.au

Adult community garden group

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

Planting and harvesting produce that they grow.

■ 8742 3688

Seniors House of Fun

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

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

Seniors club

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

■ 0403 041 499

Diabetes Support Group

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

■ Bob, 0409 252 872

Hoppers Crossing Ladies Probus

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

■ 0408 123 669

U3A Werribee

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

■ Rick, 0402 299 220

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

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

■ Jorge, 0433 566 575

Bingo for all

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

■ 9741 5525

Western Budgerigar Club

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

■ Don, 0414 975 862

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

■ Chris, 0400 414 215

Dementia Carers Group

IPC Health Dementia Carers Group is held on the first Tuesday of the month, from 12.30-2.30pm. The group si for people who care for someone with dementia or a similar condition associated with memory loss. It empowers carers through education, social connectedness and emotional support while socialising and meeting people in similar situations. Registration is essential.

■ Leah Hewitt or Joyce Chan, 1300 472 432 or https://bit.ly/48QFwBa Werribee River Association

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

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

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

The Application

The Application Reference Number is: WYP4223.18

The applicant for the permit is: Joe Arcaro & Associates Pty Ltd Planning Officer Details: Contact: Luke Sexton Telephone: 8742 8387

Application documents are available to view via Council’s website or at the Civic Centre: -www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/ advertising

Wyndham City Council Civic Centre, 45 Princes Highway, Werribee, VIC 3030 between 9am and 4pm Monday to Friday

Any person who may be affected by the granting of the permit may object or make a submission to the Responsible Authority by post or in person or; -Online: www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/planningobjection - Email: mail@wyndham.vic.gov.au

An objection must be made to the Responsible Authority in writing, include the reasons for the objection and how the objector would be affected.

If you object, the Responsible Authority will tell you of its decision.

Council must make a copy of every objection available at its office for any person to inspect during office hours free of charge until the end of the period during which an application may be made for review of a decision on the application.

The Responsible Authority will not decide on the application before: 3rd July, 2024

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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.

It was so quiet that it was often difficult to tell 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)

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 2/ Melton Phoenix’s Deng Shan_(Ljubica Vrankovic)_414042_15

Muaki Kuradate. 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 8/ Wallan’s Rebekah Konstantopoulos and Riddell’s Fionnuala McKeagney-Stubbs. 414038_02 9/ Western Rams’ Michael Walsh. 413385_01 10/ Westgate’s Melvin Becket. 414027_16

Gatt rides away as young athlete of the year

Rising Wyndham BMX star Cameron Gatt adds his name to a list of some of Australia’s top sporting stars, being named the Vic Sports Rebel Young Athlete of the Year.

The award recognises Victorian junior athletes who have achieved outstanding results in respect to performances at a national and/or international level during 2023.

All athletes have to be 21 or under at December 31 last year.

Previous winners of the award include former Australian women’s cricket captain Meg Lanning, and Olympic gold medallists Mack Horton and Jakara Anthony.

Gatt said it was pretty special to win the award. Gatt’s big achievement last season was winning the cruiser boys 15-16 age group at the UCI BMX World Championships in Glasgow, making him a world champion.

“All four finalists were happy to be selected in the first place,” he said. “Recognised for all the hard work that we have put in, all of our lives.

“It’s just a big bonus that I ended up

winning it. Me being crowned the junior athlete of the year feels incredible, we have to keep going and keep improving.”

The Geelong Thunder BMX club rider said seeing BMX recognised amongst some of the bigger sports was really pleasing.

He said not many people know about BMX.

Gatt said he continued to train hard as he pushed forward and he wants to keep winning.

Next year, Gatt will move into the junior elite competition.

“It means I have to go through a selection process and hit all the criteria,” he said. “If I do that with everyone else that has done it too, I will have to be picked out of it to go to worlds.

“It’s not a guarantee like it has been for the past years.

“It’s exciting but it is also scary as it’s getting to the top end.”

Gatt will soon start to move into the senior age group which will give him the opportunity to test himself even harder.

He said it is pretty scary riding against the

bigger riders, but it’s all part of the process and you learn who to ride with them.

Gatt’s next big race is the national championships which are in Perth.

In November, he heads to America for the Grand Race, which he said the Americans call the greatest race on earth.

It’ll be the second time he’s competing in that race.

“It’s good, but it drags on for way too long,” he said. “Between each race there’s about six hours as there’s so many people.”

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.”

Sports shorts

Werribee City’s winning streak ended at one in the Victorian Premier League 1 competition on the weekend. The Bees were able to keep momentum going against Langwarrin, but were instead on the wrong end of a 3-1 result. The Bees sit in 13th spot., three points behind the Eastern Lions.

Big

V

Wyndham continued on its winning ways in the Big V men’s championship division on the weekend. Wyndham started the weekend with a 97-75 win against the Shepparton Gators on Saturday night, before backing it up against the Sunbury Jets on Sunday, winning 98-76. Wyndham remains on top of the ladder with one loss for the season. Wyndham’s women’s side also had double wins, beating Warrnambool and the Sunbury Jets. The Wyndham women also sit atop the table.

WFL

Werribee Centrals’ gap on the rest of the Western Football League women’s competition is gone after a loss to Caroline Springs on Friday night. The Lakers experience shone through, winning 6.4 (40)-3.9 (27). With the Suns also losing, the top four including the Centurions and Suns, all sit equal on points with a big gap to the sides outside the top four. Elsewhere, Wyndhamvale got its third win of the season, beating Laverton.

FV

Hoppers Crossing’s tough run in the FV state league 2 north-west competition continued on Saturday. Without a win this season, the Reds were again on the losing side on Saturday, this time losing to Whittlesea Ranges, 5-0. The Reds remain bottom of the table, five points behind second bottom and eight points behind third last. In state league 3 north-west, Point Cook lost to Diamond Valley United, 2-1, while in state league 4 west, Truganina Hornets lost to Melbourne City, 5-1 and West Point lost to Barwon, 3-2.

Lucca Grego. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 410527_24

VPL

Cameron Gatt. (Supplied)

Centurions wary of Devils as showdown looms

Despite a 26-point gap on the ladder between Werribee Centrals and Corio, Centurions coach Rhyce Prismall is well aware that there are no easy wins in the Geelong and District Football League this season.

The two sides meet at Galvin Park this Saturday and fresh from an impressive nine-goal win against reigning premier Inverleigh, the Centurions are heavy favourites, but Prismall said the Devils are better than their two wins and one draw suggest.

“If you look at one of our losses this year (it) was to Anakie and they’re three and eight at the moment so on the day you don’t show up, teams will get you at this level which is really healthy for the competition,” he said.

“Corio this week, although their win-loss position is a bit lower than ours, in round one they led by 15 points midway through the last quarter. They’ve got a lot of weapons, they’ve got a lot of really crafty forwards and their midfield is as good as anyone’s so we’ll

be preparing no less than what we did for Inverleigh on the weekend.”

While the Centurions don’t have a tall

forward line, especially since the injury to Bryce Linehan-Cunningham, small forwards Carmelo Saliba and Josh MacDonald have combined for 55 goals this season while Prismall himself has 12, including three on Saturday.

Prismall said while Tyler Crennan has always been a star, his defensive efforts and unselfishness has gone to a whole new level this season.

“He’s taken, not a backward step in his effort or anything, but he’s happy to play that role of ‘where do you need me today’ or ‘who do you want me to play on’ and his defensive stuff has gone through the roof this year, which umpires and vote givers don’t see that, but his tackling pressure and accountability has been really top notch,” he said.

Another Centurion who has been playing his role is Jack Stephenson, who kept Hawks star Adam Donohue to one goal on the weekend.

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

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.

“He’s (Stephenson) a determined and competitive kid and he was excited more than nervous when I told him he was going to have that role.”

Prismall said that the aim preseason was to make finals, but the landscape had shifted slightly with his side well entrenched in the top three.

“Last year it’s been noted that we were nine and four I think and lost our last five games,” he said.

“We’ve reset the goalposts in terms of our goals and we are hoping for that double chance, but so many things can happen, there are so many good teams between that third and seventh bracket who could really surprise.”

Justin Flynn

“For as long as I’ve been in the league, he’s (Donohue) been the most damaging player by far and I’ve tried smalls and talls and hybrids on him and everyone’s had their turn and been handed a lesson,” Prismall said.

Warriors keep on building

Hoppers Crossing continued on its winning ways, while Werribee Districts bounced back from its first minor hiccup of the Western Football League division 1 competition.

The Warriors are now the form team of the competition on the back of five straight wins.

On Saturday, the Warriors were able to account for Spotswood.

The Woodsmen led at the first two breaks, before the Warriors took a three point lead into the final quarter.

Three goals to two in the final quarter was enough for the Warriors to win, 14.17 (101)-14. (88).

Harry Maguire kicked four goals for the Warriors and was one of their best along with Josh Pickess.

The Warriors sit in fourth spot.

Werribee Districts bounced back againstPointCookCentralsafteradraw the previous week against Caroline Springs.

The Tigers led by seven points at quarter time and increased the margin to 30 points at the main break.

After half time it was all the Tigers, who kicked 10 goals to one to seal a 17.20 (122)-4.12 (36) win.

Michael Luxford kicked four goals in the best on ground performance.

The Tigers sit eight points clear at the top of the table.

It was another tough day for Point Cook, which lost 14.7 (91)-7.9 (51).

The Magpies did all the damage in the first half, leading by 43 points at the break.

In division 2, Wyndhamvale had a massive win against Tarneit.

It was all one-way traffic with the Falcons winning, 28.16 (184)-2.5 (17).

Matthew Paul kicked five goals in the win, with Brayden Young named their best. For the Titans, Michael Scolaro was named their best.

The Falcons remain in third spot, while the Titans slip to 11th.

The Suns had a tough day against Sunshine in their match up. The Kangaroos were too strong, winning 17.12 (114)-3.4 (22).

The Suns remain in fifth spot.

Tyler Crennan’s game has gone to a whole new level this season. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 405186_13

Australian National Championships in (Australian Taekwondo)

Werribee moves into top spot

By Tara Murray

Werribee was able to inflict a small bit of revenge on Williamstown on Saturday and move to the top of the Victorian Football League ladder in the process.

The two teams faced off for the second time this season, after the Seagulls put in a commanding performance on Anzac Day.

On Saturday, it was a tough contest for three quarters before the Tigers finished off strongly, to claim a 12.11 (83)- 9.9 (63) win.

With the win, the Tigers claimed John Pyne Memorial Trophy. Pyne made a significant 14-year contribution to Werribee both on and off field.

Werribee coach Jimmy Allan said it was an important win with how close the season is.

“We were pretty keen to atone for last time a little bit, but you never get it back,” he said.

“We were able to stick to our processes and run over the top to get the win.”

Allan said they struggled with their ball use and decision making for the first two and half quarters. It took until midway through the third quarter to start playing their way and they finally started to hit the scoreboard in the final quarter.

Allan said while they weren’t great with some areas early on, other areas of their game were still really strong.

“Ourpressurewasreallygood,”hesaid.“Our pressure has kept us in games for most of the year,” he said.

“We put on a lot of pressure in the first two and half quarters when things weren’t going our way.

“We can always come back to it and at least put the opposition under the pump to make sure we’re not being heavily scored against.”

Flynn Young and Jack Riding kicked two goals each in the win.

DomBrewledthepossessionwinnerwith27, while Riding and Jesse Clark had 26 disposals each.

Allan said they had plenty of winners of the day.

“We gave a couple of big jobs,” he said. “Nathan Cooper was outstanding as was Jesse Clark down back.

“Dom Brew continued his really good form. Sam Conway came into the side and gave us a presence in the ruck.

“Jack Riding, Cooper Whyte were again really good.”

Jay Rantall became the latest player to make his debut for the Tigers this season, finishing with 13 disposals and one goal.

Allan said what was pleasing was to see a lot of players really find their feet at this level.

“We are a completely different team to the grand final team,” he said. “There were only 10 players from that team on the weekend.

“Guys have started to find their side and feel part of the side and get their confidence back.”

The win moves the Tigers to the top of the ladder.

Such is the closeness of the competition, Williamstown which is now in seventh spot, is only a game back.

Allan said he didn’t pay attention to the ladderknowingthattheyjusthavetobeattheir best each weekend.

The Tigers are set for a boost in the next couple of weeks, with captain Nick Coughlan set to return.

“He’ll be touch and go for this week,” he said. “It’ll be this week or next week against Footscray.

“Getting him back makes us a better side.”

Allan said star winger Kye Declase, who played in the Northern Football League on

Saturday, was currently away from the club. Werribee head to Sydney this weekend, facing the Sydney Swans on Sunday.

The Swans sit in 12th spot.

“The Swans team changes from week to week,” Allan said. “They have quality on every

line with some good experienced AFL players “We would think they might play like the Swans in the AFL with that contested footy. It’s one of the areas that we pride ourselves on, winning the contest. “We want to match them there and have a good chance to win.”

Werribee’s pressure was strong. (Belinda Vitacca Photography)

Dom Brew with the John Pyne Memorial Trophy . (Belinda Vitacca Photography)

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