Star Weekly - Hobsons Bay Maribyrnong - 3rd July 2024
Exhibition an artistic trip
Yarraville-based painter Matthew Simpson is set to captivate art enthusiasts with his upcoming exhibition, Time Paintings, at the No Vacancy Gallery this July.
The exhibition will showcase Simpson’s remarkable collection of works from 1999 to the present, offering a deep dive into his artistic journey.
One of the artworks, ‘Christmas’, was painted in 1999 and marks a significant stylistic breakthrough for Simpson. The piece, which will be available for public viewing for the first time, sets the tone for the exhibition.
Simpson’s artistic journey began in the 1980s when he studied fine art at the Victorian College of the Arts. Despite having a hidden disability, Simpson’s dedication to exploring the visual element of line has resulted in an intricate and evocative body of work. He drew inspiration from the Surrealist art movement’s project of automated art that directly taps into the subconscious, as well as the expressionist, surrealist and abstract works.
The exhibition will be at No Vacancy Gallery, 34-40 Jane Bell Lane, QV Building, from July 16 to 27. Details: https://matthew-simpson.com.au/ Anne Parisianne
Three parks remain closed
By Tara Murray
Three Hobsons Bay parks remain closed two months after the discovery of asbestos at the sites.
In April, asbestos was discovered in the mulch at Donald McLean Reserve, prompting an Environment Protection Authority (EPA) inspection of more parks and gardens in the municipality.
As reported by Star Weekly , council then identified 14 sites that were affected by asbestos.
The affected parks were Buffer Mound,
Grieve Parade, Altona North; Kororoit Creek Reserve, Altona North; Newport Lakes Reserve, Newport; Truganina Park, Altona Meadows; Donald McLean Reserve; Crofts Reserve, Altona North; Altona Coastal Park; Hosken Reserve, Altona North; PJ Lynch Reserve, Altona North; Federation Trail, Brooklyn (managed by the Department of Transport and Planning); Laverton Creek at the rear of AB Shaw Reserve; Doug Grant Reserve,Altona;andPABurnsReserve,Altona Donald McLean Reserve, Crofts Reserve and Hosken Reserve remain closed.
The EPA and council determined that the
likely source of contamination at all but two of the 14 affected parks was historic dumping or legacy in situ contamination.
Investigations cleared three producers of mulch used by Hobsons Bay council.
At a June 25 council meeting, infrastructure and city services director Matthew Irving provided an update on the parks following a question from councillor Daria Kellander
“It is anticipated that Donald McLean Reserve will reopen at the end of June, early July,” Mr Irving said.
“All the mulching reinstatement works are complete [and the] last item to occur is the
planting on that site.
“It is noted that the playground facility at Donald McLean reserve is open because the reinstatementtotheplaygroundareawasdone some time ago.”
Work at Crofts Reserve will be completed throughout July but for the most part the area has been able to function as usual.
AtHoskenReserve,thereisanareaofnature strip along the road that is still closed off.
Mr Irving said council was waiting for a traffic management plan approval form VicRoads, before it can complete that work and allow the area to reopen.
Matthew Simpson. (Damjan Janevski) 415960_02
Altona;
Citynews MARIBYRNONG
A MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR
Our City is a wonderfully diverse community – home to residents from over 135 different countries – and it’s important we hear the diverse views of our community to support and guide our work.
Our key planning documents, which guide our future strategic direction and service delivery, were developed to reflect the economic landscape at the time. However, much has changed since then. That’s why we are seeking to understand if your vision for Maribyrnong remains relevant.
And with planning for a new Council Plan underway, we are also asking residents to help us develop the strategic objectives for the next four years. Share your feedback on the Community Vision and Council Plan objectives by midnight 4 August at yourcityyourvoice.com.au/communityplan
We know how much our community values open space and I am pleased to confirm the Western Lawn at Footscray Park has now re-opened for community use.
The installation of new turf, irrigation, and drainage works, has transformed the Western Lawn into a versatile green space – supporting a dog off-lead area and location for community events, along with use by community sports.
Our focus will now turn to the Thomson Water Gardens landscaping works and the removal of the Playspace.
Community Grants are a way we, as Council, can further support and empower local clubs, groups, and volunteers to deliver community projects and activities that positively impact our community.
Our program, which offers $255,000 in funding, opens for applications on Tuesday 9 July and is a great opportunity for individuals or groups to get their project off the ground. For more information, visit maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/communitygrants
On behalf of Council, I would like to wish everyone a happy NAIDOC Week.
A range of events and activities are being held across our City to celebrate and recognise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history, culture, achievements and peoples. Find out more about what is planned, visit maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/naidocweek
At Council, we continue to work with our traditional custodians to ensure Indigenous cultures are visible, respected, shared and celebrated.
Together, we can work towards creating a more connected, accessible and inclusive City.
Mayor Cr Cuc Lam
Find me on Facebook
‘Mayor, Cr Cuc Lam’
JULY COUNCIL MEETINGS
Tue23: 6.30pm Council Meeting
Tue30: 6.30pm City Development Delegated Committee
These meetings will be held at the Braybrook Community Hub and livestreamed via Council’s website. Community members can submit questions for public question time online on/or before the day of the meeting. Visit maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/meetings or phone 9688 0200 for more information.
Maribyrnong City Council
Postal Address: PO Box 58, West Footscray, VIC 3012
OUT AND ABOUT
City of Maribyrnong Councillors have been busy. 1. Mayor, Cr Cuc Lam, Cr Bernadette Thomas, and CEO Celia Haddock joined Katie Hall MP and local artists for the launch of the 2024 StreetWORKS installation. Council was pleased to partner with the State Government, who provided $200,000 toward the program, showcasing 10 new murals across Footscray.
2. Mayor, Cr Cuc Lam, and CEO Celia Haddock joined Uncle Boots Cooper, Daniel Mulino
MY VIEW
and
4. Mayor, Cr Cuc Lam and Cr Jorge Jorquera at the re-opening of the Western Lawn at Footscray Park.
Many of our residents are feeling the effects of the rising cost of living. Food, housing, transport, and utilities – the essentials of life – seem to be more expensive each day. The lines at food relief programs are longer, community food pantries empty quickly, and people are sleeping rough in increasing numbers due to the lack of affordable housing. Our community has noticed the impacts of the current crises as people with no choice shelter in public view, and access food relief, in places we usually reserve for recreation and shopping.
It’s times like these that test our collective resilience – how we respond to the current crises tells us a lot about who we are as a community and what we value. During the COVID pandemic, our community responded with kindness, gratitude, and empathy. As distressing as the current crises are, I hope we can do the same.
previous recipients of Council’s Citizen of the Year Award in welcoming 46 new citizens at a citizenship ceremony held at Maribyrnong Community Centre.
3. Mayor, Cr Cuc Lam marked Refugee Week with a special luncheon at Maidstone Community Centre.
Budget cash for lifesaving club
Funding for upgrades to the Williamstown Lifesaving Club has now been included in the Hobsons Bay 2024-25 budget.
Hobsons Bay council passed its budget at the June 25 council meeting, with several changes to the draft budget which was put out for community consultation.
The biggest change is bringing forward $4.5 million for upgrades to the lifesaving club, with the council bringing forward a grant to accommodate the works.
The state government announced an $11.35 million investment for the project in 2021.
Also added to the budget was upgrades
to Ross Road, Douglas Parade road rehabilitation, the Burgoyne Sea Wall and flood lighting at Langshaws Reserve, which are all being partially funded by grants.
The council received 37 responses to its draft budget, resulting in six projects being added to the final budget.
They include road renewal works along Douglas Parade, Williamstown; the upgrade of the ford crossing along Racecourse Road, Altona; design work for the ongoing streetscape improvements along Pier Street, Altona; and upgrade works to Leo Hoffman Reserve, Newport.
Melodic workshop
Williamstown is set to welcome acclaimed vocalist, choral composer and songwriter Moira Smiley brings her melodic expertise to Melbourne’s west this July.
The Williamstown women’s choir, Willin Wimmin, will host a workshop with Smiley on Wednesday,July10,atTheBridgeChurchHall.
Known for their rendition of Smiley’s compositions, the choir is keen for the unique opportunity to collaborate directly with the composer.
Community Music Victoria, the event’s presenter, has ensured that Smiley’s workshops cater to a broad audience, inviting participants ofallgenders,vocalranges,agesandexperience levels.
Smiley will cover vocal exercises and teach some of her well-known choir arrangements with her compositions celebrated world wide.
Her diverse portfolio extends to film soundtracks, television programs and more
than 70 commercial albums.
Willin Wimmin musical director Steph Payne said they were excited for the workshop.
“Moira’s music has meant so much to me, and she has had a huge influence on my work,” she said.
“Her songs express what’s going on in the world broadly, but they also ask us to look at whatwecandolocallytohelpeachother.Ihave her many albums on high rotation.
“Willin Wimmin and Moira’s world views on social justice align beautifully and the choir arrangements are challenging and a joy to sing.”
As in the draft budget, there will be an average rate rise of 2.75 per cent on the cards forresidents,inlinewiththestategovernment cap on rates. Waste charges will increase by 7.5 per cent.
Councillor Diana Grima said residents can look forward to improved community services and enhanced infrastructure that has been lacking.
She welcomed funding for the Wetlands Centre and new family amenities at Laverton Football Club.
Cr Jonathon Marsden said the council has made significant investment in the last four
year, while Cr Pamela Sutton-Legaud said costs are going up and no one likes to pay rates.
“Wetriedtomanagethatthebestwecanand minimise the impact on those who are least able to pay and I hope it can be acknowledged that we’ve made every effort to make it as fair as possible,” she said.
Cr Kellander said the budget included funding for projects which are ‘bread and butter’ stuff.
She said the council had voluntarily put up rates by the maximum the last four years and on principle she couldn’t support the budget.
Join 200+ community projects funded so far
The West Gate Neighbourhood Fund was established by the Victorian Government to support communities in the Hobsons Bay and Maribyrnong Council areas during the construction of the West Gate Tunnel Project.
The $10 million fund seeks to build capacity and connection within these communities. Applications are now open for the latest round of West Gate Neighbourhood Fund offering grants of up to $100,000 that will deliver a lasting benefit to the community now available.
If you have an idea that brings people together, we want to hear from you.
Apply Now
Applications close 3pm, Tuesday 30 July 2024
For more information and to apply, scan the QR code or visit westgatetunnelproject.vic.gov.au/neighbourhoodfund
Have your say on women’s pain
According to the health department, submissions can be about experiences of pain andpaincare,treatmentorservicesreceivedin Victoria.
Surveyresultsrevealedthatclosetohalfofall women are impacted by issues related to their periods, pregnancy, birth and postnatal care, or conditions like endometriosis.
Women, their family members and healthcare professionals are being urged to make submissionstoVictoria’sInquiryintoWomen’s Pain.
The inquiry will examine systemic issues and solutions and hear directly from women across Victoria and is led by a panel of experts and overseen by the Women’s Health Advisory Council.
The pain can be the result of an injury or trauma, dental pain, joint pain, or musculoskeletal pain, or relate to heart, neurological, reproductive, autoimmune or other health conditions.
The experiences of healthcare workers who have worked with women and girls with pain are also being sought.
The inquiry was launched by the state governmentfollowingthereleaseofalandmark survey earlier this year, which confirmed what women already know: their pain is real – and regularly overlooked.
Nearly 60 per cent of participants reported havinghadpositivehealthcareinteractions.But oneinthreesaidthey’dexperiencedinsensitive and disrespectful practitioners who left them feeling dismissed and unheard.
Findings from the survey included:
• Fourin10Victorianwomenlivewithchronic pain;
• About half of participants reported that period-related conditions (heavy periods, cramping, PMS) affected their health and wellbeing;
• Similarly, about 50 per cent said that
Cultural help for alcohol and drugs
ABraybrook-basedprogramishelpingwomen in the Vietnamese community in Melbourne’s north-west to overcome alcohol and drug (AOD) issues.
The Australian Vietnamese Women’s Association (AVWA) offers accessible, community-basedalcoholanddrugtreatment, as well as family counselling and support for clients involved in the criminal justice system. The program also runs in Richmond and Springvale.
AVWAcouncillorAnhBuisaidtheprogram has been running for 10 to 15 years.
“Most of the services in terms of alcohol and other drugs are … recovery-oriented with a holistic approach to making sure the clients receive all the help they need,” she said.
AVWA counsellors speak Vietnamese and English, with the association keen to ensure members of the Vietnamese feel comfortable reaching out for help.
With this in mind, Ms Bui said the association placed great emphasis on confidentiality.
“Keeping clients’ confidentiality is something we prioritise in our services because we know how small [the Vietnamese
community] can be, and everyone knows each other,” she said.
“We try to separate that and make sure the clients feel safe with us in a confidential way with consent.”
Ms Bui said many of AVWA’s clients come from a refugee background, which might “directly or indirectly relate” to their alcohol and drug use.
Counselling sessions are conducted face-to-face, over the phone and rarely over Zoom, with counsellors working with clients for 90-day cycles.
“We mark rehabilitation as an episode, so one episode is 90 days,” Ms Bui said.
“We try to see [clients] every fortnight, or if they require more and want to engage more, we can try for once a week.
“AOD is counted as an episode because they can have urges sometimes and try to abstinent for a while. Usually within three months, that will be the end of the episode. It might be up and down, and they might need treatment again. Some people have an episode for a whole year.
“The longer the episodes are, the slower the progress.
pregnancyandbirthcomplicationscontinued to impact their health;
• About 30 per cent said they were affected by the symptoms of perimenopause or menopause;
• Thirty per cent said conditions such as endometriosis, menopause and chronic pain led to poor mental health;
• One in three have health conditions that affect their ability to work and keep a job; and
• Twentypercentsaidtheymissedoutonsocial connections because of their health.
Submissions can be made until July 31 and recommendations from the inquiry will be used to improve care for women in Victoria.
“Three months is the baseline to see how much help they need and where they are at.”
The AVWA is passionate about promoting good behaviour in the community and has formed strong relationships with other stakeholders, including the Dame Phyllis Frost Centre – a maximum security women’s prison in Deer Park.
“We understand that at a women’s prison like DPFC, there are a lot of women prisoners whohavealackofeducationintermsofAOD..
“So during the past few years, we occasionally went into the prison to provide them with education sessions.”
Theassociationalsorunscommunityevents throughout the year, and offers its services to men in the community as well.
“Wereallywanttobringtreatmenttofamilies and friends and alcohol and drug users, but also raising awareness about encouraging good behaviour in the community, we also want to highlight our core value of helping the community,” Ms Bui said.
“It takes time to solve AOD problems but I think we do our best and contribute the best AOD health services for the Vietnamese community.”
Women’s health organisations
GenWest and Women’s Health in the North will receive funding boosts from the state government.
The government has set aside $18 million in its 2024-25 budget for 12 women’s health organisations.
The government said the work will be delivered by women for women, including those from multicultural backgrounds, Aboriginal women, women with disabilities, and women in regional Victoria.
GenWest gender equity general manager Kate Phillips said the funding would help the organisation do more work with schools about consent, education and respectful relationships.
“We’llbeabletoexpandthenumber of schools in the different settings that we deliver, that vital health information in, and we’ll be able to do so much more in language, health, education, work in the community,” she said.
“And we’ll also be able to do more workplace training on gender inclusive practice and all of that work really contributes, will really work, is us working towards achieving gender equity in the west and supporting women’s health and wellbeing.”
Women’s Health in the North said the funding would enable it to continue its work in priority areas of gender equity, prevention of gender-based violence, and sexual and reproductive health.
Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas said women’s health organisations provide a range of services including producing tools and resources to empower women to take charge of their own health, sharing information about women’s rights and service options, as well as initiatives to promote gender equality, family violence prevention and inclusive women’s health policy.
“Women’s health matters. That’s why we are currently delivering a complete transformation of women’s health in Victoria – and supporting these 12 organisation to continue delivering for women across the state,” she said.
“For too long women’s pain has been overlooked, misdiagnosed and dismissed – we’re taking a stand by listening to Victorian women and overhauling how women’s health is treated in Victoria.”
Australian Vietnamese Women’s Association’s Anh Bui and Thao Ha. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 413896_01
Learning space success
Footscray High School’s year 10 to 12 students can enjoy the school’s newly opened campus, which is complete with state-of-the-art learning facilities.
Premier Jacinta Allan, Education Minister Ben Carroll and Footscray MP Katie Hall officially opened the Kinnear Street campus on June 26.
A four-stage project has delivered the new Kinnear campus on the site that formerly housed Footscray City College, a new Pilgrim campus and a multi-million-dollar overhaul of the Barkly campus.
The Pilgrim and Barkly campuses are for junior-level students.
The $75 million redevelopment of Kinnear campus provides senior students with flexible learning spaces that adapt to various educational activities, promoting a more engaging and dynamic form of learning, the state government said.
It now offers flexible learning spaces, a revitalised library and reconfigured classrooms tailored for learning for senior year levels.
In addition to its new learning spaces, the Kinnear campus offers a unique farm setting where students can connect with nature and learn to grow vegetables for the school canteen.
The tri-campus Footscray High School is part of the Footscray Learning Precinct, including Footscray Primary School, Footscray City Primary School and the Billy Button integrated early learning centre.
“WehavecompletelytransformedFootscray High School’s three campuses to give students in the inner west the world-class learning spaces they deserve, close to home,” Ms Allan said.
Mr Carroll said, “This school is a key component of the Footscray Learning
Precinct, which is giving students from the early years right through to VCE – the best possible education that has been tailored to the local community.”
Ms Hall said, “Footscray High is a creative and innovative local school for the families of
the inner west. From horticulture to music, community STEAM or rowing at Footscray Park – students can discover their passion for learning in a beautiful environment. I’m so proud we have delivered this incredible upgrade at Kinnear.”
Cause for celebration
The Williamstown Italian Social Club will receive a significant boost, with an $85,000 grant to renovate its existing facility on Garden Street.
The funding will facilitate essential upgrades to the roof, lighting, flooring, and front façade of the building, ensuring the club continues to be a vibrant community hub.
The club is one of the nine local organisations that will receive a share of the state government’s Multicultural Community Infrastructure Fund.
Among the other recipients, the Sri Durga Arts Cultural and Education Centrewillreceive$400,000toconstruct a new car park, and building space for the Indian community to come together and learn about history, culture, and language. Similarly, the Avalokitesvara Yuan Tong Monastery will also receive $400,000 to build a brand new community hall in Deer Park, which will support the Chinese community in celebrating cultural festivals and activities.
Multicultural Affairs Minister Ingrid Stitt said, “This latest round of funding will ensure multicultural Victorians can access the facilities that bring communities together, and to share and preserve their culture and traditions.
This latest round will see more than 50 projects receive funding, benefiting 89 ethnicities and 20 faith groups.
Details at vic.gov.au/multiculturalcommunity-infrastructure-fund
Anne Parisianne
Footscray MP Katie Hall, premier Jacinta Allan, education minister Education Ben and senior students from Footscray high school, at the new campus. (Supplied)
Western Health budget concerns
By Gerald Lynch
A Western Health staff member has voiced concern the health service has had its budget cut by the state government.
The unnamed staff member voiced the concerns online, amid news the health service was facing a hiring freeze.
“Significantlyreducedbudgetshavejustbeen given down by the state government which will include closing of some hospital services, job cuts and cancellation of elective surgeries,” the worker said.
“There is an immediate recruitment freeze across every single department at my hospital.
This is going to cause the most terrible flow on effects for patients. Our health services are already understaffed and now more will lose jobs.Weareworriedpatientswilldiewithsuch critically understaffed hospitals.”
A Western Health spokesperson said there are ongoing conversations about its budget to ensure the best outcome for the community.
“Western Health is still working with the Department of Health to agree on a final budget that will aim to support the health care needs of the growing community of the west,” the spokesperson said.
“Health care services operate in a complex and challenging setting and we are taking
active steps to respond to a constrained fiscal environment, such as recruitment holds, capital expenditure and preventing travel at this time, aimed at having minimal impact in providingbestqualitytreatment,care,research and education for the people of the west.”
A Department of Health spokesperson said the state government is working to provide the best care it can.
“The Victorian Government is investing around $20 billion in our health services over the next year alone – that’s more than 25 per cent of Victoria’s entire expenditure and includes an uplift in the price we pay hospitals for every occasion of care,” the spokesperson
said.
“We’re working with all public health services to finalise the 2024-25 budgets and ensure funding is focused on frontline care.”
Opposition health spokesperson Georgie Crozier said the funding cuts would have a profound impact on hospitals being able to deliver safe patient care.
“Labor’s ongoing mismanagement of health will see a loss of services and a loss of frontline jobsthatwillimpactthedeliveryofsafepatient care,” she said.
“Victoria’s health services need to be supported, not being bought to their knees because of Labor’s savage funding cuts.”
Upcoming tree planting event at Kororoit Creek
Friends of Lower Kororoit Creek invites local residents to a tree-planting and celebration event along the Kororoit Creek Shared Trail in Altona North on Sunday, July 7.
The event will be followed by a free barbecue for all attendees.
Edvardo and his accordion will ensure a fun-filled day for planting families.
Hobson Bay rangers will supply the plants, and NatureWest’s landcare facilitator Susie Gerraty will supervise the planting.
Ms Gerraty said planting trees is essential and many benefits come from trees.
“It supports all our endangered birds, like the Swift Parrot, there are only 200 breeding pairs left,” she said.
“It’s helping us with global warming.”
Geoff Mitchelmore founded Friends of Lower Kororoit Creek and has dedicated over 20 years to rehabilitating the creek.
Mr Mitchelmore started the group after noticing factories and local businesses treated the creek as a drain. Through persistent advocacy and hard work,
YOUR NEW CAREER ... starts here
the group has planted trees along the creek, transforming it into an urban oasis along the way from Geelong Road to Cherry Lake. However, there is still work to be done,
particularly in planting understory shrubs to support local wildlife.
For the upcoming event, Ms Gerraty said, “We’re trying to reach out to the community again and said: the job is not finished.”
Over the years, Friends of Lower Kororoit Creek has seen thousands of volunteers from various cultural and industrial backgrounds come together to plant more than 50,000 trees, shrubs, and understory plants along the creek within Hobsons Bay.
Theevent,whichwillbeheldonSunday,July 7, from 10am to noon, is open to the public.
Meeting at the west end of McArthurs Road, Altona North.
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.
Students look to the future
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
Bayside College student Amelia Danks won the 2024 inaugural poster design competition, which was launched by Altona City Rotary.
The inaugural poster competition titled ‘Creating a Better Future’ gave the secondary school students the opportunity to showcase their creativity while delving into topics that are meaningful to them.
The competition was held in collaboration with Swinburne University’s School of Design and Architecture.
For the competition, students worked alongside Bayside College VET (Vocational Education and Training) screen and media teacher Ana Tuckerman.
Ms Tuckerman said it was easy for her to adapt her program to the Rotary brief because it was so broad.
“Because we’re by the sea in Altona, we focused on ocean conservation,” she said.
“Students worked just as they would in the design industry, workshopping their key statements and calls to action in small teams, which satisfies the vocational element of the VET course. Students loved the experience.”
SwinburneSchoolofDesignandArchitecture communications design department chair Dr AndrewHaigadvisedRotaryaboutthejudging categories, which included creativity, design elements and the key aspects of messaging.
Dr Haig also served on the judging panel.
“Itwasrefreshingtoseethestudentsengaging with issues they face with such energy. It was also pleasing to see the diversity of approaches, from the colourful to the mysterious, with effective messaging,” he said.
Edvardo (Malcolm Hansford). (Supplied)
Rotary past district governor Julie Mason, the year 11 VET students, Ana Tuckerman and the Altona Rotary club president Danny Civitico.
YOUR SAY Bringing it up to scratch
The reconstruction of Summerhill Road in Footscray has commenced, addressing the ongoing deterioration of the road surface. Thereconstructionandresurfacingprojectis partoftheMaribyrnongcouncil’scommitment to upgrading key distributor roads to improve safety and functionality for the high traffic volumes, including heavy vehicles, that pass through the municipality.
Upgrades to Somerville Road in Kingsville, Mitchell Street in Maidstone, and Rosamond Road in Maribyrnong have already been completed, addressing deterioration caused by increasing wet weather and heavy traffic use over time.
Works along Summerhill Road will involve replacing the road pavement between Ballarat Road and Eden Street, with new kerb and channel installations to improve drainage and manage issues with some driveways.
Additionally, an extra pedestrian crossing will be constructed in response to community
requests.
Thekerbandchannelworks,currentlyunder way, are expected to take about three weeks to complete, weather permitting.
These works will primarily be conducted at nighttominimizetheimpactontrafficandthe surrounding road network, with some daytime work occurring between 10am and 2pm.
Duetotheuseofheavymachinery,therewill be some noise and dust, which the contractor will do its best to minimise by scheduling the most disruptive work between 8pm and 11pm.
The road will need to be closed at times to facilitate the works and ensure the safety of work crews and road users.
Detours will be signposted, and residents will be assisted in accessing their properties.
Residents will be informed in advance of any impacts on parking within the work zone.
Asphalting works will follow and are expected to be completed before the end of the year. Further works along Summerhill
Road, from Essex to Eden streets, involving road reconstruction, are anticipated in the first half of next year, with re-sheeting from Barkly Street to Essex Street to follow.
Maribyrnong mayor Cuc Lam said, “By re-sheeting and resurfacing Summerhill Road, wecanimproveandrestoretheconditionofthe roadpavementextendingthelifeexpectancyof this high traffic area for up to 20 years.
“While the scale of works will mean some disruption for residents and travellers, once completed, the need for ongoing repairs will be reduced and the experience of road users significantly improved, which is what our community has been asking of us.”
While acknowledging bike lanes are not included in the like-for-like reconstruction, Cr Lam also reinforced council “remains committed to engaging with our community on delivery of a north-south cycling corridor that will support the needs of residents and road users”.
Service providing relief for carers
Jesuit Social Services has launched a new mental health and wellbeing facility in Sunshine, offering support for carers of people withmentalillhealthorsubstanceabuseissues.
Aimed at addressing the important role played by family, carers, kin and supporters in contributing to the wellbeing of people who are experiencing mental health challenges, psychological distress, mental illness, or substanceuseissues,theprogramoffersarange of support options including information, resources,counselling,individualsupport,and group programs.
Program manager Nick Pace said the new program is run exclusively by people with their own lived experiences as carers, allowing them to provide meaningful and relevant support.
“A lot of care and support offered in the community already is largely targeted towards people who care for those with physical or intellectual disabilities, and nothing up until now that is tailored and nuanced to the experience of caring for someone with mental health or substance abuse issues,” he said.
“The initiative began in May 2023, but now we have formally opened the Western Metro Mental Health and Wellbeing Connect program at the Sunshine site.
“Our group of support workers can help families and carers with real practical tasked based support needs.
“That might mean helping them with referralsorapplicationsforCentrelinkorNDIS funding, or access to brokerage for financial or material aids, housing options … these are all things we can walk alongside people with to explore for themselves.
“As carers, we often dedicate all of our time,
energy,andresourcesintosupportingtheother person,andweputourselveslast…thisisabout shifting the lens back onto themselves, which can be really difficult for most participants because they’re not used to it.”
The program is available to anybody in the western metropolitan area, without a referral or booking, and outreach services are available
for participants who live further away from Sunshine.
The group encourages people to take the help that is available, and either call, email, or just walk into the new permanent centre in Sunshine to start receiving support.
Gerald Lynch
Heartfelt thanks On Wednesday, June 5, I had an accident in Footscray.
I had one second blackout and fell to the ground while crossing the intersection of Irving and Leeds streets outside Footscray station.
Four bystanders crossing the intersection at the same time stopped to help me. I was in excruciating pain. I couldn’t bear weight on my left leg. Two Protective Service Officers (PSO) came to the rescue, they carried me to safety.
The PSO called an ambulance, offered me a thermal blanket to keep me warm, offered drink to keep me hydrated, reassured me constantly and stayed with me for nearly one hour and a half until the ambulance arrived.
I was then transferred to Western Health, Footscray Hospital, emergency department (ED). At Footscray hospital, I was X-rayed, given pain relief medication, assessed by doctors and nurses.
The X-ray showed a fractured knee cap. I was kept in Footscray hospital ED overnight to wait for the orthopaedic surgeon’s opinion on the need of surgery. I was discharge from ED the morning after with follow up review in a week, mobility support equipment, and post-acute care home support.
Now, three weeks on since the accident, after two review appointments in the Adult Specialist Clinic at Footscray Hospital, an X-ray showed satisfactory degree of healing at the fractured site. I passed the strength and resistance tests, am more mobile, have less pain, need less medication, and don’t need surgery.
The accident I had was clearly a misfortune However I can see an element of luck in it.
I am so grateful for all the care and support I received from the time I fell on the ground at the intersection of Irving and Leeds streets until the time I was discharged from Footscray hospital ED. God bless you all, the bystanders, the PSO, the Paramedic, the doctors, nurses, care coordinator, ward attendants etc.
I am also glad that humanity still exists in our chaotic society. These days, we more often hear of negatives stories and criticism of our health care system, rarely the positives. I am proud of our Victorian health system . I salute you all, the angels I encountered on June 5 and 6.
Western Metro Mental Health and Wellbeing Connect program manager Nick Pace, Leanne Acreman, Jesuit Social Services chief executive Julie Edwards, Timm Richardson, Annabel Brebner, Jacqueline Gibson and Western Metropolitan MP David Ettershank. (Damjan Janevski) 415798_03
Suong Nguyen-Robertson, West Footscray
Watch out for whooping cough
By Christopher Carter, chief executive, North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network
DuringtheheightoftheCOVID-19pandemic, thingssuchasstayingathome,wearingmasks in public and social distancing were essential for reducing the spread of the virus.
A happy by-product of this was that many other infectious diseases were also impacted, resulting in record low case numbers.
You’ve probably already heard how, now that people are moving about, conditions such as flu and colds (and covid, by the way) are increasing again.
But another illness making a big and unwanted comeback is whooping cough – a bacterial infection that can be really serious and, in all cases, pretty unpleasant.
Whoopingcoughisalsoknownaspertussis.
In first six months of last year in Melbourne’s north and west there were 85 recorded cases. In the first six months of this year, that number jumped to 904 . That’s pretty much back to pre-pandemic levels.
Whooping cough generally starts like a mild cold – some snot and sneezing, a mild cough and maybe a fever. After a week or two the cold symptoms tend to get better, but the cough gets worse . And worse. And worse.
At its peak it can feel difficult to catch a breath between the coughs – which is why people end up making that ‘whoop-whoop’ sound as they quickly inhale.
In most cases, the worst of it will go away after a couple more weeks, but the coughing can linger for months. This why another name for pertussis is “the 100-day cough”.
Whooping cough can be particularly harmful to babies and young children. For this reason, the Australian Government’s National Immunisation Program provides
free vaccinations against the bacterium at two, four, six and 18 months, and four years.
Kids aged 12 and 13 can also receive a free vaccination though schools-based programs.
Lots of other people can also get either a free initial vaccination (if they missed out in childhood) or a booster. These include anyone under 20, humanitarian arrivals, health care workers, childcare workers and teachers, and pregnant or breastfeeding women .
Of course, it’s important to remember that these vaccinations (like many others) won’t
CLOSING DOWN SALE UP TO
Cushions, Lamps, Mirrors, Furniture, Rugs, Oil Paintings, Pictures, Antiques, Fabrics, Lace Curtains & Panels, Tiebacks, Fringes, Wallpaper Dado, Candelabras, Pedestals, Light Fittings, Chandeliers, Four Poster Bed etc.
Monday - Friday 9.00am to 4.30pm Saturday 10.00am to 3.00pm
necessarily prevent someone from catching whooping cough, but they will lessen the chances of doing so and lessen the chances of things turning really nasty of they do.
For this reason, it makes sense to err on the side of caution if you or your children develop what looks like a mild cold with a bit of a cough and make an appointment to see a doctor.
Given the rise in cases, GPs are now looking at cold symptoms with what’s called “a high index of suspicion”. That means they will
IN FOCUS
consider pertussis in cases where there has been a prolonged cough, and then test for it.
The good news is that the infection can be treated with antibiotics, which will make life a bit easier, although they might not make it any shorter. Pertussis is very contagious, so people with it should stay at home, away from work or school, for at least three weeks after the cough starts, or until they’ve finished the course of antibiotics.
That can be a difficult thing to do, but it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Lace Interiors closing doors
Chris Tolevski from Lace Interiors has pride in hisachievementssincecomingouttoAustralia from Europe at 19 years of age with just a suitcase on his own.
With hard work and determination to succeed, he is happy to say he achieved his goals in being content where he is at.
Venturing out into the country as a tailor, he took up interior design in search of something more colourful.
Togetherwithhiswife,Anne,theystartedup LaceInteriorsin1984,fromtheirshowroomin TilbaStreet,Essendon,forfouryears.Theythen movedaroundthecornerinBuckleyStreetand have been servicing Melbourne clients since. They have worked through many lovely homes in Melbourne including heritage-listed homes such as ‘Ravenswood’ in Ivanhoe, ‘Selveta’ in Parkville, ‘Montclair Aged Care’ in Brighton , ‘Airedale’ in Essendon and the list goes on.
After 40 years Lace Interiors will be closing its showroom in Essendon.
Asoneofthelongest-establishedshowrooms in the Essendon shopping strip, it will be closing its doors by the end of July.
ChrisandAnnewouldliketosincerelythank everyone for their support and friendships they’ve developed.
There will be last chances to grab great bargains at the closing down sale starting on July 5.
It it is now another era for Chris and Anne who look forward to spending more time with their grandchildren.
Lace Interiors will continue to work remotely from home for their existing clients and will be reachable via laceint@bigpond.com, or 9337 5120.
Lace Interiors will be closing the doors of its Essendon showroom. (Supplied)
DISCOVER WILLIAMSTOWN
Williamstown Specialist Centre
Williamstown Specialist Centre is located in the lovely seaside suburb of Williamstown, which is approximately 10 kilometres south west of the Melbourne CBD. The centre is surrounded by free parking spaces both on the main and adjoining streets. All-day parking spots can sometimes be found on Lyon Street or Electra Streets. Specialists include ear nose and throat, cardiologist, endocrinologist, general paediatrician, orthopaedic surgeon, respiratory physician, sleep physician, vascular specialist and endovascular specialist, urologist and musculoskeletal sports podiatrist. If you are considering renting one of the centre’s spacious spaces, rooms are available on a sessional basis.
Pirates Tavern Drop anchor at Pirates Tavern, Williamstown’s very own pirate-themed bar. Hidden behind Seaworks in a prime bayside location, the Pirates Tavern offers stunning city views over the bay. Enjoy vibrant live music every Friday and Sunday, unwind in our scenic beer garden or enjoy the kitchen’s offerings with dinner on Friday and lunch on Sunday. A proud part of the Williamstown Maritime Association, Pirates Tavern isn’t just a venue – it’s an experience. Join us and discover why we’re the most unique venue in Melbourne. Everyone is welcome at Pirates Tavern, for bookings please call Wendy on 0403 702 734.
Atelier Art Supplies
Atelier Art Supplies is located off Champion Road in Williamstown North and has been offering an extensive range of high-quality artsuppliestolocalsandinterstatebusinesses and schools for the past 10 years. As a trusted supplier to schools across Australia and as an independent retail outlet open to the public we offer a combined depth of knowledge in the industry of over 40 years and have the expertise and experience to ensure that you are able to embrace your every creative need! Come in and browse the wide range of art materials and speak to friendly staff to get the best advice.
Williamstown Automotive
SituatedonTennysonStreetinWilliamstown North, Williamstown Automotive is a trusted destination for automotive services. With a dedication to quality, the team offers a full range of services including mechanical repairs, electrical repairs, diagnostics, maintenance, log book servicing, and roadworthy certificates, tailoring efficient solutions to meet each customer’s specific needs. Whether you require routine maintenance, complex repairs, or specialized 4x4 upgrades and accessories, Williamstown Automotive ensures exceptional service with meticulous attention to detail. For all your automotive needs in Williamstown North, Williamstown Automotive is the reliable choice.
Melbourne River Cruises
Melbourne River Cruises operates the Williamstown ferry, transporting passengers between the city and Williamstown. This scenic voyage includes informative
commentary, complimentary tea, coffee, and a fully-stocked bar for relaxation. Enjoy stunning views of the city skyline and the bay area throughout the journey. Departures are conveniently located at Southgate Berth 2 in the city and Gem Pier in Williamstown. Embrace the opportunity to bring along pets or bicycles, enhancing the experience as a delightful day excursion. Experience the charm of Melbourne’s waterways while relishing the amenities aboard this iconic ferry service.
Peachy Keen
Peachy Keen offers happy hour ThursdaySunday, 5pm-6pm. The new autumn/winter menu features many new cocktails. Book your next function via website or email. Peachy Keen is here for all your functions. Go to www.peachykeenbar.com.au or email hello@peachykeenbar.com.au
Stag’s Head Hotel
The recently renovated Stag’s Head Hotel offers a new menu, a cosy, welcoming atmosphere with open fireplaces, and great service Focussingonfresh,seasonalproduce, dishes are made from scratch and the attention to detail is evident on every plate. Current specials include a free pot, glass of wine or soft drink with every main meal from the lunch menu, Monday to Thursday, 12pm - 4pm, kids eat free night on Mondays, Pot & Pie night on Tuesdays, steak night on Wednesdays and the return of live music on Sunday afternoons. Visit thestagsheadhotel. com.au for more info or call 03 9100 1955.
Nelson Place, WIlliamstown.
Williamstown Foreshore.
Budget windfall for council parks
By Cr Matt Tyler
A council budget is so much more than a financial document; it’s a vision for what we want to achieve across our community.
The choices in the budget each year have implications, often for generations to come. This is particularly true for investments in parks and open space.
We’re fortunate in Hobsons Bay to have so manyplacestoconnectwithnature–beaches, wetlandsandcoastaltrails.Theseareplaceswe can all enjoy, made possible by conservation efforts from those who have come before us and which continue today.
Likewise, as a dad myself, I know how important our parks are to provide a place for parents to connect while our little ones blow off some steam.
The number of people using the new play space at Bruce Comben Reserve, designed in partnership with the Bunurong Land Council andtheFriendsofSkeletonCreek,istestament to the value of council’s investments in park upgrades.
Our budget for 2024-25 includes more than $15 million for parks, open space and streetscapes–upbyalmost40percentrelative to council’s budgets over the past five years.
There are some significant projects within that. The budget includes $525,000 for stage two of the McCormack Park development in Laverton, which will include waterplay areas, playground works, an exercise hub, seating and barbecue areas.
While we continue to advocate for funding from other levels of government for the
Bay Wetlands Centre, we’re getting on with the early works of what will become an incredible environmental and ecotourism hotspot.
We’ve committed $1.5 million to these early works, which we aim to have finished by June 2025. They’ll include the construction of the initial community education spaces and landscaping, and will showcase our vision for what the wetlands centre will be in the future.
There’s also significant investment in the open space surrounding Altona Beach and construction will soon begin on both Alma Avenue Reserve in Altona Meadows and Pipeline Reserve in Seabrook.
There’s plenty to the 2024-25 budget, so if you’d like to learn more, you can check it out at hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/budget2024-25
Briefs
Police investigate Footscray armed robbery Police are appealing for information following an armed robbery and attempted armed robbery which occurred in Footscray in February. Investigators have been told a 38-year-old man was in a laneway off Nicholson Street about 4.20pm on Sunday, February 8. He was approached by an unknown man who stabbed him in the hand with a knife before stealing his mobile phone and leaving. A short time later a 36-year-old man and a 31-year-old man were allegedly approached by the same male at a car park near the intersection of Paisley and French streets. The offender is perceived to be African, 190 centimetres tall, in his 20s and with a thin build. Anyone with information can contact 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
Scam warning ahead of tax time With the new financial year on the horizon, people are being warned about the danger of tax-specific scams. Tax time can bring stress and confusion to individuals and businesses and online security experts say it is the perfect environment for cybercriminals who seek to take advantage of the time and try to obtain sensitive information to cause financial harm to unsuspecting victims.
FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT
Web: starweekly.com.au
Maribyrnong & Hobsons Bay Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly
Generous is size, and well designed by Clarke Hopkins Clarke, these, as new, light filled, 2 bedroom apartments all have clever floorplans, and include floorboards to living areas, wool blend carpeted bedrooms, stone patterned tiles to 2 bathrooms each, and more.
Finished in neutral tones with Fisher Paykel appliances, including integrated dishwashers, and island benches, the open and inviting space is ready to make your own! Secure basement parking and storage, and renowned cafe N a bo, placed at your doorstep completes the package.
A boutique complex of 33 apartments, within walking distance to trains, buses, shopping, eateries, local schools and medical facilities all in close proximity. All apartments provide north facing or city views! KingsVillage Apartments, 2B Williamstown Road, Kingsville, 4 apartments available, ranging from 72sqms to 93sqms plus balconies, from $549,000.
Hobsons
Hobsons Bay mayor Matt Tyler. (Supplied)
Audiologists explain why hearing aids are so expensive
Hearing aids are a vital tool for individuals experiencing hearing loss, significantly enhancing their quality of life.
However, the perceived high cost of these devices often leaves many prospective buyers, wondering why they come with such a hefty price tag.
Understanding the reasons can help in making an informed decision.
Audiologists from Active Audiology, Cris Ivanidis and Amanda Nguyen reveal the details behind the cost of hearing aids and the value they provide.
Breakdown of Hearing Aid Costs
According to Amanda Nguyen, “Developing a hearing aid involves years of research into sound processing and acoustic technology. Each device is designed to handle different environments, from quiet rooms to bustling streets, and deliver clear, natural sound”.
“A lot of time and expertise goes into developing hearing aids. Each model is the result of years of research and testing to ensure it meets the high standards required for effective hearing solutions,” says Cris Ivanidis.
Customisation also plays a significant role in the cost. Each hearing aid is tailored to fit the specific needs and ear shape of the user. This customisation ensures comfort and effectiveness, but it also requires precision manufacturing.
“We make sure that each hearing aid fits perfectly and meets the specific hearing needs of our clients. This personalized approach, ensures the best possible outcomes,” adds Cris.
Additionally, the aftercare and services provided by audiologists are included in the overall cost. These services range from the initial hearing test to ongoing adjustments and maintenance. A reputable audiologist
provides essential support, ensuring that the hearing aids function optimally over their lifespan.
Technological Advancements
The technological advancements in hearing aids justify their cost. Features such as Bluetooth connectivity allow users to connect their hearing aids to smartphones, TVs, and other devices, providing seamless integration into modern lifestyles. Rechargeable batteries, another innovation, offer convenience and long-term savings compared to traditional disposable batteries.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is also
increasingly integrated into modern hearing aids. AI enables the devices to learn and adapt to the user’s listening environments, improving the wearer’s ability to detect sound and interact. “Audiology has seen tremendous advancements with the integration of AI in hearing aids. These smart devices not only improve sound clarity but also adapt to the wearer’s environment, making daily interactions much easier,” explains Amanda.
“The AI technology in modern hearing aids represents a significant leap forward. It’s like having a personal assistant for your
ears, constantly optimizing your hearing experience in real-time,” says Cris. Financial Assistance
For many Australians, the cost of hearing aids can be mitigated through various financial assistance programs. Government subsidies and private health insurance often cover a portion of the expenses.
It is advisable to consult with an audiologist to explore all available financial options. Audiologistscanprovidedetailedinformation about government programs, insurance coverage and potential payment plans, ensuring that hearing aids are affordable for those who need them.
Value of Investment
Investing in quality hearing aids offers long-term benefits that far outweigh the initial cost. Improved hearing can lead to better communication, enhanced social interactions, and an overall higher quality of life. Maintaining good hearing health is crucial for staying connected with loved ones and enjoying daily activities.
“Improved hearing significantly enhances one’s quality of life. It’s not just about hearing better; it’s about living better,” says Cris. Rather than viewing hearing aids as an expense, consider them an investment in your overall well-being and quality of life. The technological advancements, customization, and professional services involved ensure that you receive a product that significantly improves your hearing and life. If you are concerned about affordability, speak to Cris or Amanda at Active Audiology and see if you are eligible for any funding assistance. For more information about hearing aids and services, visit Active Audiology’s website at www.activeaudiology.com.au or arrange a complimentary discussion on hearing aids by calling 9398 3331.
Cris Ivanidis and Amanda Nguyen. (Supplied)
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
WANT YOUR EVENT LISTED? Community Calendar is made available free of charge to not-for-profit organisations to keep the public informed of special events and activities. Send item details to Star Weekly Community Calendar, Corner Thomsons Road and Keilor Park Drive, Keilor Park, 3042, or email to westeditorial@starweekly.com.au by 9am Wednesday the week prior to publication
Fiddle group
The Newport Folk and Fiddle Beginner Play Along Group is a great place for beginners or those with some experience, to play music in a safe, casual and welcoming environment. Come on down, have some fun, make new friends, have a cuppa and maybe even learn something new. All instruments and levels of expertise are welcomed where the main aim is to enjoy music and have fun. Children are also most welcome. The third Saturday of the month, from 6.30-8.30pm, at 2nd Newport Scouts, 6 Market Street, Newport.
■ https://www.nffc.org.au/ beginner-playalong
Sing with WIllin Wimmin choir
Do you like to sing? Join a supportive and welcoming group of women who sing with heart. The group welcomes anyone who identifies as a woman. No auditions, singing experience or music background necessary. The group meets on Wednesdays during school term, from 7.30-9.30pm, at The Bridge Church hall, 119 Douglas Parade, Williamstown. The first two evenings of attendance are free.
■ www.willinwimmin.org.au
Prep for employment course
Seeking a change in career or how to improve your employability? Receive face-to-face help with job searches, resumes, interviews, upskilling and more in a prep for employment course. Register today. At 43 Mason Street, Newport.
■ 9391 8504, or outlets@outletsco-op.com.au
Intro to computers course
For beginners and those looking to refresh skills. The computer lab is fully equipped for interactive and hands-on learning. Accessing information, resources, file management, emails, Microsoft Office, AI and online safety. At 43 Mason Street, Newport.
■ 9391 8504, or outlets@outletsco-op.com.au
Positions vacant
Join the Hobsons Bay Community Fund (HBCF) as a committee member to support and strengthen your local community. It is seeking to fill the treasurer’s role as well as other voluntary positions.
■ eo@hbcommunityfund.org.au
Everyday English language course
For women of all ages and backgrounds with English as a second language. Practice speaking English in different situations, and make new friends. Fridays, 10am-noon. At 43 Mason Street, Newport.
■ 9391 8504, or outlets@outletsco-op.com.au
Laverton Community Choir
The choir is welcoming new members, especially male voices. If you love singing and would like to be part of a choir, come along and try out your vocal cords with this fun and welcoming group of singers. There are no auditions and you don’t need to be able to read music. The group meets on Thursday evenings during school terms at Laverton P12 College, 91 Bladin Street, Laverton, from 7-9pm.
■ Sue, 0418 386 147, or lavertoncommunitychoir@gmail.com
Drop in chess, cards and Scrabble
If you love playing chess, cards or a game of Scrabble in an informal and fun setting, visit Braybrook Community Centre on Tuesdays, from noon-2.30pm.
Mouth Organ Band Yarraville Mouth Organ Band is looking for
new members. Band practice is held on Friday evenings at 8pm in the band hall at 203 Williamstown Road, Yarraville. For great music in a friendly atmosphere feel free to call in one Friday evening.
■ Heather 9399 2190 or ymob1933@yahoo.com.au
Alcoholics Anonymous
Regular meetings of Alcoholics Anonymous are held at St Andrew’s Church Hall, Williamstown, Wednesdays at 7pm, and Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Newport, Thursdays at 6.30pm and Saturdays at 8.30am. All welcome including friends and family of people with drinking problems.
■ 1300 22 22 22, or www.aatimes.org.au
Wednesday walking group
The Williamstown Community Centre offers a regular Wednesday walking group that walks the local area, 10.15-11am. New members are welcome. This activity is free and includes morning tea.
■ 9397 6168
Williamstown Craft Market
Commonwealth Reserve comes alive on the third Sunday of the month for the Williamstown Craft Market. The market boasts more than 50 stalls showcasing everything from handmade craft, homegrown produce and food vendors. There will also be live music. From 10am4pm.
Bingo is held every Wednesday night at the Laverton Bowls Club, 77-87 Hall Street, Altona Meadows. Ticket selling starts at 7.30pm, eyes down at 8pm. Cost $8.00 set of books (3).
■ 9369 1034, or secretary@lavertonbowls.com.aus.
Meditation for stress management
Meditate under the guidance of an experienced teacher through visualisation, breath and movement. A form of mindful planning combining the psychological process of visualising, preparing for the future, and assigning action steps. Held at
the Braybrook Community Hub between 10-11am on Fridays. This class will also be live streamed for you to join from home. Cost is $60 per a 10-week term or $6 per session.
Small steps walking group
Are you looking for a fun and social way to stay active? Join the Braybrook Community Hub walking group. Get some fresh air, make new friends and enjoy the benefits of walking. Or join for social connections, bikkies and a cuppa every Wednesday between 10.30-11.30am.
Book sale
Friends of Altona Library hold a monthly book sale on the first Tuesday, Friday and Saturday of each month at the rear of Altona Library 123 Queen Street Altona. access via Coles car park, from 10am-1pm. ■ https://libraries.hobsonsbay.
Altona Girl Guides
Altona Girl Guides currently have vacancies for girls aged five-plus who would like to learn new skills, gain confidence,and expand their friendship circle while having fun.
■ Girl Guides Victoria, 8606 3500 or www.guidesvic.org.au
Laverton Community Education Centre
Laverton Community Education Centre has started free AMEP classes in Williamstown Community Education Centre at the Joan Kirner House, on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 9.30am-3pm. Participants can build English, digital and employability skills with the Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP).
■ 9369 2726
Computers, crafts, conversation
Whatever your learning interests and needs, Outlets Newport Community Education Centre has hands-on, face-to-face classes for you or a friend. Contact the centre today to find something for you.
■ 9391 8504, or outlets@outletsco-op. com.au
Carers’ walk and talk
A collaboration between the state
government, Interchange Outer East and Brotherhood of St Laurence (BSL), the Pathways for Carers program is launching a monthly walk in Footscray on the third Thursday of each month. The goal of each group is to provide carers with peer-based support, information, services and resources, opportunities to be active and connect with other carers, connect with nature and connect with their local community.
■ lauren.mcalpine@bsl.org.au or www.pathwaysforcarers.com.au
West Footscray Rotary
The Rotary Club of West Footscray meets at the Medway Golf Club in Maidstone for lunch, fellowship and guest speakers each Wednesday, from 12.30-2pm.
■ Mike, 0417 622 372
Cherry Lake Market
Set between Millers Road and the stunning Cherry Lake in Altona, this market has something for everyone. The market hosts more than 60 stalls, selling plants, bric-a-brac, handcrafts, hot jam donuts, tools, clothing and much more. There is live music every month from the Cherry Lake Cultural Series, showcasing local musicians from across Hobsons Bay. From 9am-1pm on the first Sunday of every month.
■ www.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/Community/ Whats-On/Altona or cherrylakemarket@ gmail.com
Point Gellibrand Rotary Club
Rotary Club of Point Gellibrand meets at Customs House Hotel, 161 Nelson Place, Williamstown, on the first and third Tuesday of the month, from 6pm, for a dinner meeting. The club has some great speakers and needs new, energetic, enthusiastic members who want to make a difference in their community.
■ www.rotarypointgellibrand.com.au, Pam, 0418 347 691, or rotarypointgellibrand@ gmail.com
Altona Day View Club
The Altona Day View Club meets on the third Wednesday each Month at 11am, at the Altona RSL 31 Sargood Street, Altona. ■ Marion, 9394 6557
This week’s photographer’s choice is of DJ Lenny Pearce. (Damjan Janevski) 415083_01
Maltese comedy a laugh for all
By Jennifer Pittorino
You don’t have to be Maltese to find Deborah Barrese’s comedy funny. She has found her Maltese alter ego Carmen resonates well with everyone.
Now getting ready for her first solo show, the Altona residents is excited to showcase her Maltese heritage.
“Both of my parents were born in Malta, so I think Carmen is a combination of my parents and my grandparents,” she said.
“Everyone I know has a little bit of Carmen in them.”
What originally started as an outlet for her creativity during COVID, has now turned into more than a comedy sketch.
“I came up with Carmen the character out of frustration for Carmen because she couldn’t leave the house,” she said.
“She couldn’t do all of her favourite things like go to bingo, go to the shops or even make and sell her pastizzi.”
Resonating well with people online, Barrese said her Carmen had taken off overnight.
Taking inspiration from her own childhood, Barrese said she began creating sketches of Carmen and her granddaughter Deborah.
“Every Maltese person that I’ve come across including relatives, the conversations, the arguments I put those into sketches,” she said.
“I think that’s why it’s done so well, because people can relate to what I’m producing.”
WithoneofhertwoMelbourneshowsalmost sold out, Barrese said the westies need to get in quick to see the show at the Williamstown Centenary Theatre.
“There will be two shows in Melbourne, as well as Brisbane , Sydney and Adelaide.”
The shows will be held on September 13 and 14. Details: https://www.carmenthemaltese. com.au/
Blending urban and nature
Art enthusiasts in Melton can visit emerging local artist Mollie-Rose Chislett’s latest exhibit ‘Urban Birds’ at the Melton Library and Learning Hub.
The exhibition, which opened on Friday, June 21 and runs until the end of September, is an exploration of the impact of urbanisation on animals and features a series of bird sculptures.
Chislett said her upbringing in Sunshine and Caroline Springs, with its blend of urban infrastructure and natural landscapes, was the source for the project.
Circus is in town
CircusLatinoisinfullswinginTaylorsLakes, and will stick around until the end of the school holidays.
If you’ve driven past the large tent at the Watergardens Shopping Centre until July 14, you’d have noticed that the circus is in town, offering a taste of South American thrill and entertainment at an affordable price.
Described as a dynamic and exciting show, it aims to thrill and captivate audiences of all ages.
Featuring talented performers from South America and Australia, get ready to be blown away by daring aerial acts, tricks performed with fire and hoops, and to laugh at the hilarious clown.
Be warned, though, the interactive show will have members of the crowd coming up on stage to join in on the act.
Argentinean dancers and Latin music throughout give Circus Latino its South American flavor, this combined with artistic
and dramatic acts and circus favorites make Circus Latino a unique and entertaining experience for all.
After 16 years, the circus is making its return to Watergardens, with tickets starting from $20.
Throughout the holidays, the show will run six days a week excluding Tuesdays, with shows at 3pm and 6.30pm each day, offering options for every family’s situation. Tickets: https://www.trybooking.com/CSKBM
Firefly to illuminate Tarneit again
The award-winning Firefly Night Market will return to Tarneit.
Part of the Wyndham council’s ‘Meet Me in Tarneit’ series, Tarneit Suburban Revitalisation Program in partnership with the Victorian Government, the free event takes place on Saturday, July 6, at Penrose Place on the corner of Wickford Road and Tarneit Road.
Featuring more than 70 market stalls, live music, cultural performances and glowing interactive art, the 2025 edition is anticipated to be every bit as successful as last year’s which attracted an estimated 18,000 people and was named Australia’s Best Small Event at the 2023 Australian Event Awards.
Runningfrom3pmto9pm,thenightmarket will include the lighting of a hand-crafted fire sculpture at 5.30pm and roving fireflies that will start glowing at 7.15pm.
Food from every continent will be on offer, both from stalls and food trucks.
The entertainment line-up will feature a mix of multicultural performances on stage, ranging from Bollywood to Polynesian, reflecting Wyndham’s rich diversity.
There will also be free circus performances and a collaborative canvas on which patrons can express their creativity using with UV paint.
The Firefly Night Market is delivered by Wyndham council and the Tarneit Suburban Revitalisation Program in partnership with the state government.
The night market is alcohol free, but BYO food is permitted.
Parking is available but patrons are encouraged to catch public transport via the 167 bus, or walk.
In order to accommodate the night market, Wickford Road will be closed between Penrose Promenade and Tarneit Road, Tarneit from 12pm to 11pm on Saturday, July 6.
Details: tarneitnightmarket@wyndham. vic.gov.au
“I wanted to capture the relationship betweentheurbansprawlandthenatural world, using the local environment,” she said.“Toseeitdisplayedinthehomethat they reflect, the home that I share, it’s an incredible feeling.”
Chislett said the significance of the exhibition was not lost on her.
“Urban Birds is my first ever solo exhibition, so to have such an achievement displayed where everyone who has supported me can visit is absolutely wonderful,” she said. “It’s up there with graduating with my honours degree… It showed me that my art does mean something to other people.”
Taking a step back and slowing down is something that people can take away from the artwork, Chislett said.
“I hope that people who visit my exhibition will take notice of birds around their neighbourhood, from seeing how these sculptures link the urban and the natural, and start to see that in their own lives.
“Once you become aware of the birds aroundyou,there’sthismomentofpeace in bustling suburbia, the chance to slow down for a moment, perceive where you are, and how we share this environment with countless other species.”
Deborah Barrese dressed up as ‘Carmen’. (Damjan Janevski) 407722_01
Ringmaster Allanah Le Du, Hand balancer Tiffany Lee and the clown Jojo. (Damjan Janevski) 414796_03
Performers on stage at the 2023 Firefly Night Market in Tarneit. (Supplied)
Mollie-Rose Chislett at the launch of her exhibit. (Supplied)
SPORTS QUIZ
1. Australian cyclist Ruby Roseman-Gannon won the final stage of the 2024 Tour of Britain Women when a competitor from which country celebrated too early?
2. Which American golf professional won the 2024 US Open?
3. Pakistan was defeated by which of the co-hosts of the 2024 Men’s T20 World Cup in a group stage match?
4. What medal did Spanish 20km race walker Laura García-Caro miss out on at the 2024 European Athletics Championships after celebrating too early?
5. Joseph Sua’ali’i received a four match suspension for his high hit on which Queensland player in game one of the 2024 State of Origin series?
6. Which current GWS player was the inaugural Kevin Sheedy Medallist in 2012?
7. Which Spanish tennis professional defeated Germany’s Alexander Zverev to win the 2024 French Open men’s singles title?
8. Which Polish tennis professional defeated Italy’s Jasmine Paolini to win the 2024 French Open women’s singles title?
9. Dallas Mavericks coach Jason Kidd played for how many NBA teams?
10. Australian boxer Liam Paro defeated which Puerto Rican fighter to win the IBF junior welterweight title?
11. Which Italian cities will be the joint hosts of the 2026 Winter Olympic Games?
12. What type of injury is a ‘corky’?
13. During AFL Round 14, who kicked the opening goal in Dustin Martin’s 300th game?
14. Which two nations played in the Euro 2024 group stage upset victory of the Falcons over the Red Devils?
15. What is both the title of a Best Picture Oscar-winning film and a nickname of pro skater Tony Hawk?
16. The Ashes urn is believed to contain what?
17. What is the maximum amount of clubs you are allowed to carry in golf?
18. Tiki-taka is a style of play in which sport?
19. Which Australian NBA player won a championship with the Cavaliers in 2016?
20. In which olympic sport might you observe a 360 kickflip?
21. In which country is the UEFA Euro 2024 soccer tournament currently being played until mid-July?
22. And which country won the previous edition of the competition in 2020, their first title since 1968?
23. In which year did bottomof-the-ladder AFL team North Melbourne last win a premiership?
24. Which retired Aussie women’s tennis champion will be playing an exhibition doubles match at Wimbledon?
25. Briton Adam Yates won which recent men’s cycling event for UAE Team Emirates?
26. Rachael 'Raygun' Gunn will be competing in which new sport at the Paris Olympic Games?
27. Which spinner recently became the first Australian cricketer to take 100 wickets in T20 Internationals?
28. In Game 2 of the Women’s State of Origin, by what margin did the Maroons defeat NSW?
29. Which Hollywood actor is set to star in a 2025 movie about Formula One?
30. In golf, three strokes under par on a hole is called a what?
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
ACROSS
1 Nonchalant (6)
4 Black birds (6)
10 Video effect (abbr) (3-2)
11 Storage tank (9)
12 Covered with plants (9)
13 Egyptian capital (5)
14 Continues to live (6)
15 Drop (4)
19 Needy (4)
20 Grab (4,2)
24 Abscond to marry (5)
25 Pleasure seeker (9)
27 Objects relating to the US (9)
28 Stage player (5)
29 Northern Ireland (6)
30 The capital of Spain (6)
DOWN
1 Buyer (8)
2 European country (8)
3 In the midst of (7)
5 Stone fruit (7)
6 Foreign; exciting (6)
7 Pulpit discourse (6)
8 Group of three (4)
9 Quake-triggered sea wave (7)
16 Row of computer icons (7)
17 Short-distance athlete (8)
18 Made an entrance (8)
19 Childish (7)
21 Buddhist ultimate state (7)
22 Illusion of having experienced something before (4,2)
23 Bumpkins (6)
26 Male pig (4)
or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural nouns ending in “s”.
1 Where on a house is a fascia found?
2 Which country in Africa has the largest population?
3 Is a spinet a surgical tool, musical instrument or hair accessory?
4 Who was the leader of the Confederacy during the American Civil War?
5 In how many films did Pierce Brosnan (pictured) play James Bond?
6 What legendary creature appears on the Welsh flag?
7 Which Disney character famously sings When You WishUponaStar?
8 Cynicism was an ancient school of philosophy from which culture?
9 Which US composer and pianist was dubbed ‘The King of Ragtime’?
10 The Sydney Opera House was opened in October of what year?
No. 192
No. 192
RATINGS
Looks: 8/10
Performance: 7/10
Safety: 9/10
Thirst: 8/10
Practicality: 6/10
Comfort: 7/10
Tech: 8/10
Value: 7/10
High hopes for new Toyota Koba
By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring
Toyota has a storied modern history of innovation: remember the World Rally-based Celica GT-Four, the quirky Tarago ‘egg’ people mover and the revolutionary Prius petrol/electric hybrid?
Now, the Japanese auto giant has continued carrying the stylish high-tech torch with the C-HR GR Sport.
This edgy looking cross-over is the flagship of the all-new second generation premium compact, which brings stylish European design and economic performance together in the small SUV segment.
The three-version Coupe-High Rider, says the maker, presents an elevation in luxury and performance compared with the outgoing C-HR, with the pick of two new hybrid powertrains and the introduction of the latest technology in safety, comfort and convenience, appealing especially to younger buyers.
Sitting in the middle ground between the Corolla and RAV4 and updated in late 2019 with a petrol/electric hybrid top-spec Koba model, the GXL gets the ball rolling from $42,990, plus on-road costs. Mid-stream is Koba, from $49,990, with the hero GR Sport, from $54,990, plus ORCs.
All C-HRs are covered by Toyota’s five-year/ unlimited kilometre warranty, as well as capped price servicing for the first five years or 75,000 kilometres, whichever comes first, witheach12-month/15,000kmservicecosting $250.
Added is a 12-month complimentary subscription to Toyota Connected Services, providing security and convenience through the myToyota Connect smartphone app.
Styling
From the base GXL up, the C-HR adopts Toyota’s new ‘Hammer Head’ exterior design
language, with the GR Sport topping off the range with unique gloss black 19-inch alloy wheels, GR Sport grille, with liquid black finish, and GR Sport badging.
The GR Sport joins Koba with auto-levelling bi-LED headlamps, LED ‘foggies’, power tailgate, premium gloss black accents and rear and rear-side window privacy glass. Adaptive high-beam headlamps dim selectively to prevent on-coming road users from being dazzled.
With six exterior colours on offer for GXL, upper grades add visual flair with a two-tone combination of a black roof with Frosted White pearl, metallic Graphite, Stunning Silver, Feverish Red and Sunglow (the test vehicle) or metallic mica Emeraldine.
A Two-Tone Plus finish is also available for the pair, adding the roof’s black finish to the rear and can be optioned with panoramic roof. Buyers can also opt for the all-black Ink mica metallic finish.
Interior
The stylish cabin boasts a range of recycled materials and no animal derived products.
For example, GR Sport front seats have a combination of synthetic leather-accented and suede-like upholstery,
While the front seats are comfortable and laterally well supportive, rear legroom is tight.
There are GR-branded aluminium scuff plates and floor mats and a perforated GR Sport steering wheel, which can be heated.
Boot space is constricted by the steeply sloping back and underfloor mechanical workings. In the absence of a spare wheel only a tyre puncture kit is carried.
Infotainment
All C-HR variants feature an up-to-date high-resolution 12.3-inch touchscreen multimedia system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, cloud-based satellite navigation, DAB+ digital radio and voice recognition.
Koba and GR Sport are singled out for additional tech including a colour head-up display, nine speaker JBL premium audio, wireless smartphone charger, rear USB accessory port and a digital 12.3-inch instrument panel.
Engines/transmissions
More than a show pony, the C-HR GR Sport has plenty to play with from the powertrain with its 2-litre hybrid system mated with a dual-motor e-Four all-wheel drive system. Pumping out 146kW combined output, the flagship squeezes the low combined fuel consumption to 4.1 litres per 100 kilometres, the maker claims.
The 2.0-litre hybrid powertrain uses a lithium-ionbatteryinplaceofthenickel-metal hydride battery in the previous generation hybrid system.
Safety
AllC-HRscomewithhigh-gradesafety tech through Toyota’s Safety Sense suite, which includes the pre-collision system, active cruise control, lane trace assist, parking support brake, speed-sign assist and safe exit assist, as well as panoramic view monitor and 10 airbags.
Driving
From the get-go the C-HR GR Sport has a striking presence, but from then on things fade to a far-from- punchy but, some would say, passable performance; try zero to 100km/h in eight seconds.
Three drive modes – Normal, Eco and Sport – are on hand, tuning the powertrain, steering and air-conditioning systems, along with a Custom mode which allows drivers to do things their way.
Eco is highly forgettable; Sport stiffens ride and handling in taking on the freed-up powertrain. Normal turns the vehicle into a townie with milder manners. Cabin noise is mostly restricted to the tyres unless the petrol motor is pushed into a low note.
Toyota puts fuel consumption at 4.1 litres per 100 kilometres on the combined urban / highway. The test car came up with 5.5 litres per 100 kilometres in an urban environment and 3.8 litres per 100 kilometres on a motorway run.
Stopping power is enhanced by larger twin-piston caliper front brakes.
Summary
There’s no denying the sharp looking C-HR GR Sport tester attracted more than its fair shareofattentionfromthesub-thirty-year-old cohort but whether this would translate to sales is another matter. Price could be a problem.
2024 Toyota C-HR Koba.
(Pictures: Supplied)
Chilly weekend sporting action
For the first time this winter, sports people were hit by rain and wind for the major Saturday competitions. Star Weekly photographer Ljubica Vrankovic was still out there,shootingplentyoftheaction.
Caroline Springs’ Jamie Ristoski. 416136_09
Hillside’s Emma Picone. 416139_05
Hillside’s Brooke Kerrigan. 416139_18
Diggers Rest’s Leona Hristovska. 416140_04
Taylors Lakes’ Ethan Caffari and Burnside Heights’ Joshua Stiles. 416137_18
Caroline Springs George Cross’ Aiden Brown. 416141_11
Macedon’s Tayla Chamra. 416140_11
Hoppers Crossing’s Jed Anderson. 416136_03
Burnside Heights’ Matthew Larkin. 416137_08
Western United gave up a lead late. 416141_13
Druids turn to premiership player
TheDruidshavelockedinanewcaptain-coach for the next two Victorian Turf Cricket Association seasons.
After a tough 2023-24 season where they finished bottom and are set for relegation, the Wizards have been busy behind the scenes locking in some key pieces.
Steve Nicholson, a premiership player with the club, returns to the Wizards and will take on the captain-coach role.
The club said on social media that Nicholson brings a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm to the table.
“Steve is a six times premiership player, six times Ballarat country week representative, EJ Cleary Medallist (Ballarat league best and fairest) and has been a junior coach with multiple age groups previously at the Mt Clear Cricket Club including senior coach in season 2020-21.
“Steve was a pivotal leader in our last first XI premiership opening the batting and bowling his left arm straight breaks.”
Nicholson said the role came a little bit out
of left field but was something he was looking forward to.
“I’vekeptinclosecontactwithJaredAndrews and we both barrack for Essendon and go to the footy,” he said. “He got wind that I could be interested in coaching and it went from there.”
Nicholson has spent most of his cricket career at Mt Clear.
Last season, he played at Anglesea making the most of having a caravan down there.
Nicholson said as he got to the back end of his playing career he wanted to get back into coaching.
“I’ve got a background in teaching,” he said. “I’ve done some junior coaching and was co-coach at Mt Clear after COVID.
“This will give me a little bit of an idea if it’s something I want to pursue after I finish playing.’
The Wizards will play in division 1 this season.
Nicholsonsaidyouneverwanttoberelegated but it was a great opportunity to look to the future.
“We’ve got a good emerging list coming through and we want to develop our junior kids from sustained success moving forward.
“It’s not going to be a quick fix, it’ll be a gradual progression.”
The club has 15 junior teams with a lot of children coming through the system which is encouraging for the future.
Nicholson said they want to create a smooth transition from the juniors to senior program.
Sam Hall, a left fast bowler, Lenny Fitcher andLachlanAnderson,arethreeteenagersthat he’s looking forward to seeing take a step up.
Then there’s the next batch coming through who are 15 years old and that next step is to get some senior experience.
“It may not be in the first XI, but we want to transition them into senior cricket.”
Nicholson said they still had a few irons in the fire in terms of recruiting to ensure they’ve got a bit of experience to support the young players coming through.
Tara Murray
Coughlan’s off to Paris
By Tara Murray
It’s a family affair for Aoife Coughlan as she aims for glory at her second Olympic Games.
Coughlan, who competed at the Tokyo Games, was confirmed as a two-time OlympianonFridayafterbeingselectedforthe 70 kilograms women’s event.
“It’s very exciting to have qualified for my second Olympic Games,” she said.
“Every time I step on the mat with Aus on my back is a privilege and to be able to do it twice nowon the higheststageofworldsportis something special.
“QualifyingforTokyowasextremelydifficult with COVID and although this Olympic cycle has still been very hard it has thankfully been a bit less of a bumpy road.“
After making the round of 16 at Tokyo, Coughlan has put herself into a good position heading into these Games.
The Resilience Training Centre athlete is ranked number seven in the world. One of the highlights since the last Olympics was winning gold at the Commonwealth Games, which has given Coughlan plenty of confidence.
“My performances over the past two years have shown that I’m absolutely capable of standing on that podium come comp day,” she said.
“Winning the Commonwealth Games plus my other podium performances over the past
two years absolutely gives me confidence in my abilities. It shows that I am able to perform on bigger stages and under pressure.
“As long as I perform in a way that does all of the hard work I’ve put in justice, I’ll be satisfied regardless of the outcome.”
Not surprisingly, Coughlan will be surrounded by family at the Games.
Her parents met doing judo in university in IrelandandwhentheymovedtoAustraliathey happened to move to a town that had a club nearby.
Coughlan’s brother Eoin competed at the Olympics in 2016 and her sister, Maeve, is one of her main training partners.
“I officially started when I was about five but can remember being the annoying toddler running around getting under all of the adults’ feet before that,” she said.
“Having the family connection to judo definitely drew me to continue the sport. I’m extremely lucky to have a family that understands what I’m doing and supports me unconditionally without pressuring me.
“My parents are amazing and have put so much into allowing me to pursue my sporting career.
“Having my brother and sister on this journey with me is so special.
“My brother Eoin has always been a role model to me, his work ethic is something I strive to emulate.
“My sister Maeve is one of my main training partners and she keeps me accountable and we push each other to be better every day. I hope I’m as good a role model for her as our brother is.
“I’m hoping we can qualify together for LA 2028.”
Amongthosemakingthetriptowatchherin Paris, is her nana who is in her 90s.
“I know she’s very excited to be there and wouldn’t dream of missing it,” she said.
“She’s a force of nature and no doubt she’ll steal the show like she did at the Rio Games and in Birmingham. She’ll be accompanied by my parents, a couple of uncles and cousins which just makes it all the more special.”
As well as juggling an elite sport, Coughlan studies at Victoria University.
She is undertaking Bachelor of Exercise Science (Clinical Practice) having completed a double-degree in Exercise Science (Human Movement)/SportandRecreationManagement
“Juggling elite sport, uni and work can be pretty difficult, it’s all about time management and prioritising the right things at the right time.
“I travel a lot for my sport and VUs block mode has made it easier for me to knock of unitsintheshortperiodsoftimethatI’mhome.
“VU has always been supportive of me as an elite athlete and it has made completing my degrees simultaneously to my sporting career possible.”
Williamstown’s Gabrielle BiedenwegWebster will get a second shot at her AFLW dream after being picked up by Fremantle as a replacement player.
The Dockers announced last week that Biedenweg-Webster had been signed to fill the hole left with Ange Stannett tearing her ACL.
Hailing from country New South Wales, the 26-year-old came to football as a mature age player before making the move to Victoria to play Victorian Football League Women’s.
Biedenweg-Webster won Williamstown best and fairest before she was drafted by the Gold Coast Suns ahead of season seven in 2022.
On the Suns’ list for two seasons, Biedenweg-Webster played three games fortheclubandwasdelistedattheendof 2023 before returning to Williamstown for this season.
The defender had played 11 games for the Seagulls in their run to the minor premiership.
Fremantle AFLW list manager Darryn Fry said the cub is pleased to sign Biedenweg-Webster on for 2024, after having flown her over for a trial with the team the previous week.
“Following Ange’s devastating news, we had an extensive search nation-wide, tryingtofindtherightplayerthatfitsour list needs best and Gabby’s a player who caught our eye through the VFLW,” he said. “We flew Gabby over to Perth for a few days as a trial early last week and the way she seamlessly connected with the playing group and staff was pleasing to see.
“Something we also noticed in our interactions with her is her professionalism and diligence around her preparation and recovery.
“We often talk about the athlete and the footballer, but culturally, we’re also confident she’s going to add value to our group. Her engagement with players and staff on her first meeting with everyone was outstanding.”
Fry said her speed, athleticism and her run and carry were attributes that really stood out.
“She has a license to do that with Williamstown and we feel those attributeswillbenefitoursideintheback half of the field,” he said.
Steve Nicholson is the next captain-coach of the Druids. (Supplied)
Aoife Coughlan. (Supplied)
Woodsmen bounce back after two close losses
Spotswood got a much needed win to get its Western Football League division 1 season back on track.
After two close losses the previous two weeks, the Woodsmen’s match with Parkside was an important one for both sides.
The Woodsmen jumped out of the blocks on Saturday and it was game over at half time.
Fourteengoalstooneinthefirsthalfshowed the dominance from the Woodsmen.
The second half was much closer, but the resultwasalreadydecidedwiththeWoodsmen winning 22.9 (141)-8.6 (54).
Coach Tom German said they were really happy with that result and it was reward for effort.
“We had a couple of close losses the last two weeks and we’ve been thereabouts,” he said. “We’ve had patches that have let us down. We’ve had lots of ins and outs of the side in the first half of the season.
“We’ve got a bit more continuity in there and it allows us to gel.”
German said every side goes through those patches and they’re hoping they are through the worst of it.
SamCrosskickedfourgoalsinthewinwhile KyleBlake,LachlanHeriotandStevenO’Bryan got three goals each.
“We had a lot of good performers,” German said. “The backline was really good.
“Nathan Haylock was super down there.
“Grant Williams moved into the midfield, he’s normally a defender. Matthew Payne, Steven O’Bryan and Kyle Blake were all good down forward. It was an even performance.”
For the Magpies, Tom Stapleton and Darcy Kennedy were named their best.
Furphy an Indiana Pacer
By Tara Murray
Former Maribyrnong Sports Academy star
Johnny Furphy has realised his NBA dream.
A late bloomer in this draft, Furphy was in the room on night one of the draft on Thursday.
His name wasn’t called out in the first 30 picks, so it was a nervous wait for him ahead of the rest of the draft the following days.
Furphy didn’t have to wait long, with the San Antonio Spurs calling out his name at pick 35.
He was traded to the Indiana Pacers.
Speaking with channel 9, Furphy it was a dream come true to hear his name called out at the draft.
“It is all kind of still settling in that this is real,” he said.
“I’m just kind of let it soak in and enjoy it.”
He admits its it was a few stressful days in the lead up to the draft, especially after being inthedraftroomonnightoneandnothearing
his name called out.
“I wasn’t too worried, I knew I was going to land in the right spot and it was all about fit,” he said.
“I think super happy, super excited where I’ve landed, it couldn’t have gone any better.”
Furphy said there would be a lot of players that he’s going to be going against, where he will have to pinch himself.
Lebron James is a childhood super hero for him.
There were parties held at Maribyrnong Sports Academy celebrating him being drafted.
Pacers general manager Chad Buchanan said they were excited to bring Furphy into the program.
“I feel like he is a guy who’s got a lot of room to grow both his body physically and his game,” he said.
“He’s very young in age. We liked a lot of things about him and felt like it aligned with who we are as an organisation, how we play
Spotswood sit in sixth spot only a game outside the top four.
German said they were hoping the result would kick start their season.
“It is a really even competition,” he said. “We started the season well with some pretty good first three to four weeks.
“We had a few players go overseas and few injuries. With the evenness of the competition, and how results come and have kept us in it.”
“Hopefully we are able to string a few results together now.”
Parkside sit in seventh spot with three wins.
The Woodsmen face bottom side Point Cook Centrals this Saturday, while Parkside faces Hoppers Crossing.
Altona got another win on the board, defeating Point Cook, 17.11 (113)-6.4 (40).
The Bulldogs led at quarter time before the Vikings kicked 14 goals to two after quarter time.
In division 2, Braybrook beat North Sunshine, Newport lost to Wyndhamvale, West Footscray struggled against Albion and North Footscray beat Laverton.
Tara Murray
Sports shorts
VTCA
Footscray Angliss has added two big names to its squad for the Victorian Turf Cricket Association division 4 season. The club has announced that Vanuatu national team members Darren and Womejo Wotu have joined the club as they look to play consistent cricket throughout the summer. Darren is an opening bowler who will spend his second season in Australia with us following time at Craigieburn in senior division last season, while Womejo is a hard-hitting, medium pace all-rounder who will be spending his first season in Australia.
NPL
Altona Magic got a much needed win in the National Premier League on Saturday, The Magic hosted the Port Melbourne Sharks and scores were level at half time. The Magic were able to hit the front in the second half and it was enough to come away with a 1-0 win. The Magic sit in 10th spot after 20 rounds, six points outside the top six. The Magic host Avondale on Saturday night.
VPL
and obviously comes from a great program at Kanvas.
“[We’re] excited about where he could get to.”
In his one season with Kansas, Furphy worked his way into the starting line up, averaging nine points, 4.9 rebounds and one assist per game.
He was voted into the Big 12 freshman’s all star team.
Furphy joined Kansas after being a late bloomer having been small growing up.
He made his first Victorian state team in 2022 in the under-20s, before earning a scholarship at Centre of Excellence at the AIS.
Before he headed to the AIS, he attended the Maribyrnong Sports Academy having long dreamed of attending the college. He finished year 12 at the academy while he was at the AIS.
He was this year named in the Australian Boomers squad for the Paris Olympics, but was cut when the squad was reduced.
Altona City is finally back on the winners list in the Victorian Premier League 2 competition. Having not had a win in its past four matches, Altona City’s match with Box Hill United on Friday night was crucial. Lachlan Smith gave Altona City the lead in the second half and it would be enough for the 1-0 victory. Altona City sits fourth on the ladder, four points off top.
WFL
Yarraville Seddon got a vital win as it aims to stay in touch with the top four in the Western Football League women’s competition. The Eagles were dominant in their 8.11 (59)-0.2 (2) win against Laverton. The win has the Eagles two games outside the top four. In other results, Caroline Springs was way too strong for Wyndhamvale and West Footscray made Werribee Centrals work hard for the win.
FOR MORE SPORT, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au
Maribyrnong & Hobsons Bay Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly
Jake Buggy. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 410695_21
Johnny Furphy. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)
City West Falcons lock in top spot
City West Falcons have locked up top spot on the Victorian Netball League championship ladder with three rounds to go.
The Falcons had a pair of strong wins last week, firstly against the Peninsula Waves on Wednesday night and then against the North East Blaze on Sunday.
Jane Cook put on a show on Wednesday night, shooting 86 goals from 86 attempts in the Falcons’ 89-51 win despite missing three starters and four members of their squad. They backed it up on Sunday against the North East Blaze, winning 70-59.
Falcons coach Marg Lind said they were pretty happy with the performance against the Blaze, which is a top four side.
“We had a good start and that set it up,” she said.
“We jumped out of the blocks. It was pretty physical especially as the game wore on. We have to prepare for a variation of tactics going forward.
“It was very competitive and it’s good to get the win, that’s for sure.”
The Falcons welcomed back Maggie Lind and Montana Holmes, who both missed Wednesday night’s game.
Lind said the pair along with Soli Ropati had a really good game in the midcourt, with the two attacking mids really hitting the circle edge.
She said Sussu Liai has a really good second half playing tagging role on Blaze goal attack Georgia Moody.
“We played pretty well as a team,” Lind said.
“We don’t have those standout performers, everyone is toeing the line.”
The win puts the Falcons four games clear on top of the ladder, with just three rounds remaining, meaning they have secured the minor premiership.
The Falcons under-23 team had a 55-46 loss to the Blaze.
The side was up at half time before the Blaze
came back strong in the second half to come away with the win.
Lind said the side continues to be up and down with the lack of experience showing at times.
“We need to make sure we make the top four and then pull out some good games,” she said.
“We’renotestablishedlikethechampionship side, it’s a different journey.”
Despite back-to-back losses, the Falcons remain in fourth spot and have a two game gap on Geelong.
The Falcons are again on the road this week, facingtheMelbourneUniversityLightningon Wednesday night.
Lind said it’s always tough on the road but would give them good experience with a bigger crowd in place before the finals.
Seagulls push through
By Tara Murray
Williamstown’s first finals win has it a step closer to a Victorian Football League women’s grand final.
The Seagulls continued to make history on Sunday, as they found another gear in the second half to run away from the Western Bulldogs in their qualifying final.
Just one point separated the two teams at half time, before the Seagulls kicked five goals to two in the second half, to win 7.3 (45)-4.3 (27).
Seagulls coach Liam Cavanagh said it was pretty special to get their first finals win, after exiting finals in the first round last year.
“It’s massive,” he said. “It’s unbelievable.
“There were lots of nerves and expectation and pressure internally and we tried to mitigate that.
“We celebrated the twin post game, but we move on quickly.”
Cavanagh said they took a while to get into the game with conditions pretty tricky at DSV Stadium.
He said they didn’t make the most of the breeze in the first quarter and that the first half was about figuring out the game.
“We then had to stop the Bulldogs when they had the breeze,” he said. “We thought if wewereoneortwogoalsdownatquartertime that would be a good position.
“To make it a point was really good.”
The Seagulls put some things in place at half time to try and get the game on their terms. It worked as they kicked three goals to open up a 19 point lead at the last break.
“We spoke inside that it’s easier to save a game than try and steal a game,” he said. “We played the scenario perfectly.
“We put ourselves in a good position.”
Cavanagh said with the game in their control the last quarter was about playing to the clock, shutting them down while still trying to score.
The Bulldogs kicked the first two goals of the quarter before the Seagulls steadied and kicked the last two of the match.
Neve Crowley was the only multiple goal kicker for the Seagulls, kicking two.
Cavanagh said Lori Stepnell in defence was their best.
“She was massive at centre half back,” he said. “She won a lot of ball and set up a lot of our footy
“Megan Williamson was our most consistent in the midfield.”
The win gives the Seagulls two chances at making a grand final.
“The next two weeks are exciting,” he said.
“The last time we played North Melbourne is was really tight.”
Williamstown’s men’s side had a bye on the weekend.
Two Jets named in metro squad
Jets duo Sierra
and Lou-Lou Field have been named in the Vic Metro squad for the girls under-18 national championships.
Both Vic Metro and County squads were announced on Wednesday ahead on the championships which kicked off on Saturday.
Grieves was recently named best on ground for the AFL National Academy girls side from its match against the national all stars side.
She had 24 disposals and seven tackles in slippery conditions.
Grieves has been part of the academy this year, which features the country’s most promising footballers.
Fieldplayedfortheall-starteamwhich was selected after feedback from AFLW clubs.
Both Grieves and Field play their local football with Yarraville Seddon-Eagles.
Victoria Metro’s squad features players from the six Coates Talent League metropolitan programs, the Calder Cannons, Eastern Ranges, Northern Knights, Oakleigh Chargers, Sandringham Dragons and Jets.
Calder Cannons trio Chloe Baker-West, Kyla Forbes and Jade McLay are also in the team.
Oakleigh Chargers girls coach Ty Vickery has been appointed coach of Victoria Metro.
VictoriaMetrofeaturedintheopening match of the championships against the Allies on Saturday, after deadline.
The two Victorian sides go head-to-head at IKON Park on Sunday, July 14 ahead of a double-header at RSEA Park on Sunday, August 11 where metro will host South Australia ahead of country taking on Western Australia.
Cavanagh said they would be better for the
understanding of the
This week the Seagulls will face the Gold Coast Suns on Saturday
Tara Murray Maggie Lind returned on Sunday. (Robbab Photography)
Laura Kane (middle) with Sarah Poustie and Sierra Grieves. (Picture: AFL)
Western
Grieves
The first of those attempts will be on Sunday at 2pm at DSV Stadium against North Melbourne. North Melbourne beat Essendon in their final. Port Melbourne will play the Bulldogs in the other semi final.
win and
pressure of
finals footy.
Lori Stepnell, (Ljubica Vrankovic)
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