Nurses, personal care workers and midwives who feel “disrespected“ and “unappreciated“ rallied outside Bolton Clarke’s Glendale aged carefacilityinWerribeeonFriday,demanding betterpay,conditionsand“respect“fromtheir employer.
The protected action was the latest in an escalating battle between Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) members and management of the Queensland-based company.
ANMF, which has been negotiating with Bolton Clarke for 18 months, is seeking improved conditions and a minimum four per cent increase for its 1700 members across the company’s 22 residential aged care facilities, at-home nursing program, Homeless Persons Nursing Program and maternal and child health line.
Among those protesting outside the Heaths Road facility was care manager Sam Lanteri.
Ms Lanteri has worked for Bolton Clarke since October managing a team of nurses who provide care to clients in the community.
MsLanterisaidsheandhernursecolleagues were paid well below the national average and below nurses who work in hospitals.
According to the ANMF, Bolton Clarke’s first pay offer was zero followed by a second offer of two per cent, with Ms Lanteri described as “insulting“.
“We are nurses on the road, independent practitioners going into people’s homes, treating people who are very unwell and keeping them at home longer so they are not going into aged care facilities or hospital. We not only support our clients but their families too.“
Mr Lanteri said she could “easily“ get a better paid job in a hospital, but she loves her clients and feels part of their family.
“Our clients love seeing us and are thankful for the help we give.
“We are just not appreciated, just not respected. We go without breaks, we are in our car all day so we have to stop at a park to use public bathrooms or at McDonald’s. We eat lunch in our car between clients because there are no proper lunch breaks. We eat as we drive so we’re not late for the next client. We don’t properly sit down during rest breaks.“
Ms Lanteri said the Bolton Clarke’s 2 per cent pay offer showed “real disrespect like we’re not worth it but we know we are because our clients tell us we are“.
She said Friday’s stop work action hurt herself and her colleagues financially but they were bolstered by the support of passing
motorists, many of whom honked their horns in support, their clients and the ANMF.
“The union is behind us 100 per cent. There is a lot of solidarity. We are in this for the long haul,“ she said.
“Our clients love us and we want to the company to love us too.“
Members began stage one protected industrialactiononMonday,July15,including wearing red campaign T-shirts at work, talking about their campaign with residents, clients, the media and the community, writing campaign messages on work cars, a ban on redeployment and administrative and non-clinical documentation bans.
OnJuly31,membersbannedtheassessment and admission of new clients, excluding clients with personal alarms, palliative care, oncology and paediatrics.
ANMF Victorian Branch secretary Lisa Fitzpatrick said workers are escalating their industrial action “with a heavy heart because BoltonClarkeisnotlisteningandcontinuesto
take advantage of their caring nature“.
‘We’d like to reassure Bolton Clarke’s aged care residents, clients and their families that there may be some disruption or inconvenience for management, but there will be no risk to health, welfare and safety,“ Ms Fitzpatrick said.
“The aged care royal commission found employers, the government and unions had to work together to increase wages to strengthen employers’ ability to recruit and retain a skilled workforce.
“The Albanese government has provided Bolton Clarke with millions of dollars for increased wages and to pay for enough staff to implement the daily mandated 200 care minutes for each resident.
“ANMF has made a successful aged care wage case in the Fair Work Commission fully funded by the government. Meanwhile Bolton Clarke is working to suppress wage increases for current staff and cutting wages for new staff so nurses and carers will be earning
different pay for the same work.“
In a statement, Bolton Clarke group chief executive Stephen Muggleton said the company had put “proactive management plans“ in place including additional staff to ensure the “continued health, wellbeing and safety of residents and to minimise any disruption to service delivery“.
“Bolton Clarke has been working closely with employees, unions, including the ANMF, and other bargaining parties over the past six months to deliver the best possible outcome with funds available, ensuring we can continue to provide high quality care to communities we service,“ Mr Muggleton said.
“We are disappointed that the union is taking this action as good faith bargaining continues. We remain committed to reaching an agreement as soon as possible.“
The nurses, midwives and personal care workers have vowed to continue their rolling two-hour stop-work rallies each Friday, from 1pm to 3pm, during August and September.
Car manager Sam Lanteri and her colleagues rally outside Bolton Clarke’s Glendale facility in Werribee on Friday. (Supplied)
Police blitz nabs drink drivers
Almost one in 60 of the drivers tested were foundtohaveexcessivealcoholintheirsystem during a pplice blitz in Altona.
As part of Operation Leviathan, officers targeted impaired drivers with 3648 vehicles stopped for testing on the Princes Freeway on the night of August 2 and 3.
Police caught 63 people drink driving, including a 32-year-old Point Cook man.
Five drivers were also found to have drugs in their system.
Police impounded 19 vehicles as part of the operation.
One driver who was stopped by police at the booze bus, a 32-year-old Point Cook man, returned a BAC reading of .164, police said.
The man’s drivers’ licence was immediately suspended for 12 months while his vehicle was impounded for a 30 days. He will be summonsed to face court at a later date.
Policesaida28-year-oldArdeermanrolled his car at Altona Meadows while attempting
to evade officers.
He was taken to hospital and will be processed at a later date.
Victoria Police is warning motorists there will be zero tolerance to drink and drug driving, with significant penalties for those who disregard the rules.
First time offenders who are fully licenced and over 26 years of age caught with a blood alcohol limit between .05 and .07 receive a $577 fine and immediate three-month
(Supplied)
Walk in for basketball and fitness
Wyndham Walking Basketball is calling people of all ages and abilities who want to improve their fitness to join its program.
The program is hosted by the Werribee All Abilities Basketball Club and runs every Thursday at 10am at Eagle Stadium, with a morning tea following each session.
Walking Basketball is a slower-paced and less intense form of basketball suitable for people of any ability or fitness level.
Theprogramisparticularlygreatforpeople who are older adults, recuperating from injury, returning to exercise after having children or just looking for fun without high
impact running or jumping.
Changes include a lowered ring to make the sport more inclusive.
Each week contains a structured session practicing skills (throwing, catching, dribbling) and then playing some games you will have fun and meet others.
In addition to the fitness benefits, the opportunity to socialise is one of the program’s richest aspects.
“We have a half an hour catch up and talk about anything and everything, so it’s a really good social thing to do,” secretary Kylie Bozanic said.
“I love seeing people socialising, having fun and also making friends.”
Wyndham Walking Basketball started in May 2022 and is part of a growing movement in Victoria.
The program runs during term time and costs $25 per player, per term.
Those interested in getting involved can contact Kylie at: werribeeallabilities@gmail. com
Jaidyn Kennedy
licence suspension, police said.
The penalties increase substantially for those under 26 years of age, those required to have a zero blood or breath alcohol level, those caught for second or subsequent drink driving offences, and those caught over .07 or above – including larger fines, longer licence suspensions, alcohol interlocks, attendance at court and even jail time for the most serious offences.
Cooling tower identified
By Holly Hales and Callum Godde,AAP
The source of Victoria’s deadly legionnaires’ disease outbreak has been pinpointed, with health authorities confident it has been contained.
A cooling tower at Laverton North has been identified as the source after dozens in the suburb and neighbouring Derrimut were disinfected.
“I am hopeful we’ve contained the source of the outbreak,” Chief Health Officer Clare Looker told reporters on Monday.
“Further work is being undertaken now that we have this positive result to quantify the amount of legionella in the sample.
“Recentweatherpatternscouldexplain the wider than usual dispersal of cases.”
A man in his 60s and a woman in her 90s died after being caught in the outbreak.
There are 77 confirmed cases as of Monday, August 5. All have been hospitalised.
Legionnaires’ disease is caused by the legionella bacteria, found in natural bodies of water, spas, warm water systems, potting mix and artificial systems that use water for cooling.
Symptoms can include a pneumonia, chest infection, aches, headache, fever, cough and chills.
About 10 per cent of legionnaires’ patientsdie.Peoplemostatriskareadults aged over 40 years, especially those with other medical conditions, people who are immunocompromised, or those who smoke. Royal Melbourne Hospital physician Megan Rees said the disease was not transmitted person-to-person and could be easily detected with a urine test.
“We do sometimes see more than one case in a household but it’s usually because they’ve been exposed to the same source,” she said.
“There is no risk for patients of spreading it to their loved ones.”.
Werribee man charged over plot to import illicit drugs
A Werribee man has been charged over his alleged role in a plot to import 80 kilograms of methamphetamine into Australia last year.
Investigators from the Victoria Joint Organised Crime Task Force (JOCTF) arrested and charged the man, 25, on July 31, after authorities seized the illicit drugs last year,followinginformationprovidedbyUSlaw enforcement.
About80kgofmethamphetamine,concealed in a consignment of steel boxes addressed to a Victorian business, was seized by Australian Border Force (ABF) upon its arrival into Australia in October, 2023. Policesaidthatamountofmethamphetamine
could have been sold as 800,000 individual street deals, with an estimated street value of $74 million.
Authorities removed the methamphetamine and in November, 2023, the consignment was delivered to an address in Moorabbin.
During the delivery, the Werribee man was observed at a nearby location, police said.
He was arrested and police searched his home, where they allegedly found encrypted telecommunications devices, small amounts of border controlled drugs (BCDs) and evidence of the manufacture of BCDs.
The man was released pending further inquiries.
A police review of additional evidence indicated he also allegedly trafficked 11kg of MDMA, 10kg of methamphetamine, five kg of cocaine and two kg of ketamine and laundered about $850,000 allegedly obtained from criminal activities.
The man was arrested for a sexond time but JOCTF investigators on July 31 at Newcomb.
He was later charged him with a number of offences including importing a commercial quantity of a border controlled drug, namely methamphetamine; dealing with money that was, and believed to be, proceeds of indictable crimeandatthetimeofthedealingthevalueof themoneywas$856,700ormore;andtrafficking
methylamphetamine, ketamine, cocaine and 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA).
Police also searched the man’s home and vehicle, where they seized an electronic device and international banking cards.
He appeared in Melbourne Magistrates Court on August 1, where no application was made for bail. The matter is next due in court on October 23.
The Victorian JOCTF comprises members from the AFP, Victoria Police, Australian Border Force (ABF), Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission (ACIC) and Department of Home Affairs.
Wyndham Walking Basketball is looking for new members.
Stroke survivor runs F.A.S.T
By Eddie Russell
Some would say an ultra marathon is the ultimate test of endurance.
But Bob Carey-Grieve, who did the Ultra Perth in June, has endured a lot more than just a long run.
Between 2016 – 2019, he went through two strokes at the same time (one in the arm, one in the leg) , internal haemorrhaging, bowel cancer, six months of chemotherapy, and Lemierre syndrome.
The Ballan local said it was a “miracle” he was still alive after not going to the hospital for 12 hours while having a stroke.
“A piece of brain the size of a pea dies every 12 minutes when you are having a stroke so you have to do something about it very quickly,” Mr Carey-Grieve said.
August 5 – 11 is National Stroke Week, and the Stroke Foundation is urging people to think F.A.S.T – face, arms, speech, and time. These are the four signs of a stroke, something Mr Carey-Grieve wishes he was aware of prior to the life-threatening incident.
“It’s really important to get that out there because when I had my stroke I didn’t know anything about those things and completely ignored all of them,” he said.
“At 42, I thought I was too young to have a stroke … but they can happen to anybody at any age.”
MrCarey-Grieve,whoworksinPointCook, delayed taking important action because he lacked one of the most obvious giveaways a stroke causes.
“A lot of people recognise that when somebody’s face is drooping that they are likely having a stroke, but my face didn’t so I made the wrong assumption that everything was fine.”
Following years of health complications,
Mr Carey-Grieve made a “conscious decision” to get back on track.
“When you’ve got the best part of three yearsofconstantlybeinginandoutofhospital with one thing or another and you feel like the
Be a sport, help Reclink
Echoing the Olympic spirit that has been blooming lately, not-for-profit organisation
Reclink Australia is hosting a sports equipment drive.
Reclink founder Peter Cullen said the drive is collecting sporting, gym and recreation equipment for a fortnight.
The donations will go to disadvantaged people needing sporting equipment in Wyndham.
“There’s so much focus on sport at the moment – the inspiration we got from our Olympics and the exposure of sport, that it’s important we also make sure that we include the unincluded.” Mr Cullen said.
“We have to jump on every opportunity to get our community more active.
“Only this morning I had a family called. There’s only a couple of matches left and their child’s boots are broken. We were able to
supply them with a pair of boots rather than having to pay for a pair just for a few games.”
Mr Peter Cullen said there was a significant need for bicycle donations.
“There were eight people arrived here this morning asking for bicycles,” he said.
“We have to send them away. We just didn’t have a bike for them.”
The equipment drive is running in conjunction with Wyndham council’s Olympic Games initiative.
Donate directly to Reclink at 11/13 Gerves Drive, Werribee, every Monday from 10am; or contact Peter Cullen on 0421 442 340 or email at admin@reclink.org to arrange an alternative time for drop-off or pick-up of goods.
universe is definitely out to get you, it seemed like a good time to turn things around.
“I knew that I needed to work on my mental health and anxiety but I didn’t have the ability to sit still and meditate.”
That was where running came in.
An inability to “sit still” was the catalyst for Mr Carey-Grieve’s first marathon, which helped eliminate his nervous energy and anxiety.
“I found running was a way to do that meditation. It’s essential now – it’s the one thing that keeps me grounded and together and I feel a whole lot better now than I did before the stroke.”
MrCarey-Grievesaidrunningisanexercise of not just the body but the brain.
“The very action of running, feeling the ground beneath my feet, feeling the tension in my body, being aware of where I am – that’s mindfulness,” he said.
“Concentrating on what you’re doing will keep you running for five hours.”
For his 50th birthday, Mr Carey-Grieve decided to do a 50-kilometre ultra marathon and raise money in the process.
“I did a 50-50 split between the Stroke Foundation and Bowel Cancer Australia because everything has to be 50 doesn’t it,” he said.
Those who donated to the fundraiser got to pick a song for Mr Carey-Grieve’s running playlist, something he said they put more thought into than he did.
“People were being really thoughtful and asking about what kind of bpm [beats per minute] I wanted, which was more consideration that I had for it,” he said.
“They were giving me stuff to actually spur me on.”
Mr Carey-Grieve has turned a silver lining into a shining example of a positive lifestyle change and is a passionate advocate for the early prevention of strokes.
Bob Carey-Grieve is a stroke and cancer survivor who ran an ultra marathon this year. (Damjan Janevski) 422600_07
Olivia Nguyen
Reclink founder Peter Cullen with Wyndham mayor Jennie Barrera. (Supplied)
Breastfeeding support for all
By Oscar Parry
World Breastfeeding Week is a global campaign aiming to raise awareness of the importance of breastfeeding and the benefits it provides to mothers, children, and public health.
Running from August 1–7, this year’s theme is ‘breastfeeding for all’ – a vision for increased inclusivity and further efforts in addressing barriers to accessing breastfeeding support.
Macedon-based lactation consultant Samantha Turner-Dunne is passionate about breastfeeding and its broad benefits.
“If you had to introduce one public health program to benefit the health and the wellbeing of your community the most and decreasematernalandinfantmorbidity–and even mortality – the most successful thing you could do is teach, educate, and promote breastfeeding, because the long-term effects on the health and wellbeing for babies and for people is profound,” Ms Turner-Dunne said.
She said language barriers are just one of the challenges many face in accessing breastfeeding support.
She said in many cases, women may avoid seeking support from resources such as lactation consultants because of several other issues that require time and attention.
“They’vebecomerefugees,orthey’resobusy focussing on trauma that [breastfeeding] is just another challenge that they’ve got to put further down the food chain, [and] because they’ve got other really important things that they’re trying to deal with, they are less likely to get … support,” she said.
Ms Turner-Dunne said lactation consultants sometimes have access to interpreters and interpretive services to help with their consultations, but if these are not
available,consultantswillstilldotheirbestto help through other forms of communication and performing assessments.
“Part of the way that … women learn to breastfeed, there’s some intuitive basis to it. There are also demonstrative [ways] you can learn things … and there can be no speech. So there’s a lot of demonstrative work that can be done that … is helpful if English is a second language.”
Ms Turner-Dunne said breastfeeding also
has important protective effects on babies.
“The mothers have less chance of breast cancers and … [It also] helps immunise and vaccinate the babies because it hands over all the immunoglobulins,” she said.
“They’ve realised that there [are] stem cells and white blood cells and enzymes … in breast milk and all the different roles that they play … it’s profound.”
Ms Turner-Dunne said that her job is rewarding, and that she enjoys making a positiveimpactonfamiliesandpublichealth.
“I love my job – lactation consultants are really passionate about breastfeeding, and that’s why we go and study and make a specialised career out of it. We try [to] create safe spaces … we just want good emotional attachment between mothers and babies and the best health outcomes for all,” she said.
She said it is important to have widely accessible support, and that while breastfeeding is not an option for many women, lactation consultants will try to help where they can.
“When breastfeeding is successful, it’s one of the most enjoyable bonding experiences of their life … for 30 per cent of women, it is a challenge and they do need support … and we’re here for them. Sometimes it doesn’t work because it can’t.”
On the Australian Breastfeeding Association’s (ABA) website, it reports that many mothers feel a deep sense of loss, grief, and remorse when they are unable to breastfeed, and that families, friends, and counselling could be forms of support.
Ms Turner-Dunne said other resources providedbytheABAthatcouldassistmothers include online multi-language information flyers and a network of volunteers who can provide peer-to-peer support.
‘‘ Homelessness can be much closer than you might think ... all it could take is one unfortunate circumstance ... to fall on tough time ’’ - Nic Marchesi
Homelessness hardships
Amid a cost-of-living crisis, homelessness and poverty is picking up in prevalence, and support services are feeling the demand pinch as much as ever, Gerald Lynch discovers.
It’scloserthanyouthink.That’sthemessage this National Homeless Week, which runs August 5 to 11.
As Australians struggle to afford basic needs, defer crucial healthcare and work extra hours to keep afloat, homelessness support services are reporting a surge in demand for their services.
Recently released research by free mobile laundry and shower service, Orange Sky, revealed that 57 per cent of Australians struggle to make ends meet annually, with 27 per cent struggling as often as monthly.
The new research came as government data indicates household inflation rates have skyrocketed by 3.6 per cent over the past 12 months, with housing, food and health costs climbing by over 3 per cent in the same period of time.
The research reveals three in five (59 per cent) Australians have had to moderately or significantly adjust their lifestyle due to the rising cost-of-living.
Orange Sky St Albans team leader Ben Campbell originally joined the organisation during covid as a way to get out of the house, but four years later he couldn’t imagine not being involved.
“When everyone was locked down, I was like OK, I need to get out of the house, and one of the loopholes essentially, to do that was volunteering,” he said.
“It really helped open my eyes to appreciate what I had, because of course through the pandemic, we all thought it was an extremely tough time but then on the other side of it, people were living on the streets not having a place to live or living in potentially dangerous situations who were having it a lot worse than I was.
“So it gave me this fresh perspective. It gave me a greater appreciation for what I have and what others have and just trying to help them
make it through the weeks.”
Mr Campbell is mainly involved with the Orange Sky’s laundry service, a mobile service that washes people’s clothes and also provides meals.
He said while the service is used less in the winter,justasmanypeoplecomedowntohave a chat and a smile, a service that is intangible yet invaluable.
“Not all the attendees use our service but it doesn’t really matter, they … just come for a conversation where they can feel heard,” he said.
“Mostofthetimethehomelessfeelinvisible, feel like they’re ignored by society and not really appreciated in any way shape or form. So we’re just there to kind of give them that support.
“To give them an ear and just listen to them and just make them feel a bit more normal, because they are normal.”
He said there are misconceptions about homelesspeoplethatmakethemfeelunworthy of interacting with other people sometimes, and he hopes to see further education and change in public perception.
“There’s the whole idea of homelessness, I imagine for the general public, that they’ve put themselves in this situation and they can’tbringthemselvesoutofit,”MrCampbell said.
“The reality is there are so many factors that can contribute (to a person becoming homeless), there is often trauma, domestic violence, mental illnesses and all sorts that can really contribute to people getting into the situation.”
Orange Sky co-founder Nic Marchesi said growing costs and expenses are placing unsustainable pressure on everyday Australians, who are having to make tough sacrifices just to keep up.
“No one deserves to go without essentials,
clean clothes, a hot shower and a safe place to sleep,” he said. “However, rising costs are increasingly forcing everyday Australians to choosebetweenlivingessentials,billsandrent, and people who may have never thought they would be struggling financially are turning to us for help.
“We have seen a 21 per cent increase in demand for our services since last financial year,andthisincreaseiscomingfromfamilies, retirees,studentsandmiddle-agedwomenand men. Even people with current employment are coming to us for help.
“To support the growing number of Aussies experiencing homelessness and hardship, in the last financial year, we launched services in five new locations. In addition to the brand-new services, we launched 36 new shifts in already existing services.
“Concerningly, escalating costs are seeing Aussies not only struggling to afford the essentials, but also to find safety and security, with the research revealing more than one in 10 have had to forego a meal due to a lack of
funds, while over one in six have borrowed money, sold something or taken out a loan just to pay rent or bills.
“Amid a national housing crisis which has seen mortgage prices hit an all-time high in June of this year, weekly rent prices rising by 8 per cent in the past 12 months, and rental vacancy rates sitting at the lowest they’ve been in a decade, it’s no surprise there’s an increase of Australians heading into tough times.
“Homelessness can be much closer than you might think it is. These statistics are people, people that we see each and every day, and people who need our support. Homelessness can impact anyone, and as we see financial hardship escalate, all it could take is one unfortunate circumstance for you or someone you know to fall on tough time.”
Orange Sky receives government funding, but with more and more people being forced to live on the streets, help from those who can afforditisbeingencouragedthisHomelessness week.
Donate at orangesky.org.au
Main: Orange Sky founders Nic Marchesi and Lucas Patchett.
Above: St Albans volunteers Simon and Ben with a local at a laundry session. Left: Volunteers and users of the service enjoying a chat.
(Pictures: Supplied)
Garden for the senses
A new sensory garden at Serendip Sanctuary will focus on the awakening of the five senses.
ParksVictoriaannouncednewdraftdesigns for the sensory garden which will be split into five spaces.
From brightly coloured flora in the see space, to vegetation with various textures in the feel space and edible bush foods in the taste space, the new garden will provide a place for people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities to connect with nature.
The garden also sets out to enhance visitor experience with pathways and resting spots.
The sensory garden was an initiative identified by the community during consultation on the master plan for Serendip
Sanctuary and the You Yangs Regional Park.
ParksVictoriadistrictmanagerDavidPetty said the garden will provide opportunities for peopleofallages,backgroundsandabilitiesto access green spaces near home.
“This wonderful new garden will provide more ways for people with diverse abilities to connect to nature,” he said.
“By delivering on recommendations outlined in the You Yangs Precinct master plan, we’re working to protect and celebrate thisspeciallandscapewhilestrengtheningthe visitor experience.”
Parks Victoria worked with the community and Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation to co-design the garden.
Briefs
Cyclist killed
A Truganina cyclist has died following a fatal collision in Tarneit on Thursday, August 1. Emergency services were called to the intersection of Dunraven Drive and Selbourne Avenue, where a truck and cyclist collided about 1pm. The cyclist, a 68-year-old Truganina woman, died at the scene. The driver of the truck, a 52-year-old Altona North man, stopped at the scene. He has been charged with dangerous driving causing death.
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Kids discover tiny critters in one of the junior rangers programs at Serendip Sanctuary. (Supplied)
Donations needed for children
By Tara Murray
A local charity group is putting out a call for donated items having seen an 11 per cent increase in people needing help.
BigGroupHug,whichhasthreewarehouses including in Tarneit and Thomastown, helped 6705 families in the past 12 months.
On average they help more than 550 children a month.
Fundraising and communications manager Maria Quigley said the main reason they were seeing people as they were going through financial hardship.
She said underemployment and
unemployment, family violence, refugees and single parents were the other main groups of people they see.
“Two-thirds of people only need help once,” she said. “Their car might have blown up or they have an unexpected financial trigger which means they need help.
“They are then diverting funds off essentials.”
Ms Quigley said toiletries for both babies, children and adults were things they were constantly seeking donations of.
“Shampoo, conditioner and roll on deodorant are the real main things for adults,” she said.
“We need sanitary items, especially tampons.
“For children, it’s things like baby wash three in one, toothbrushes and toothpaste.
“Nappy cream is a big one, we never have enough of that. We’re often preparing nappy bags with no cream in them.
“We’re hearing anecdotal evidence of parents trying to ration nappy cream which can cause more health issues.”
Ms Quigley said other things they were looking for were items for babies such as prams and capsules.
She said bedding was another big one.
Try-Para Sport program kicks off
Australia’s next Paralympians might have been on the court at Werribee’s Eagle Stadium on Wednesday last week.
Bupa and Disability Sports Australia are launching a Try-Para Sport program which will deliver a range of community-focused events to ensure people with disability sample a variety of para-sports in a safe and welcoming environment and leverage and maximise the increased engagement surrounding para-sports.
Participantswillhavetheopportunitytotry a range of para-sports, including wheelchair basketball,archery,wheelchairrugby,goalball andboccia,whilealsolearningaboutpotential pathways to participate in these sports at an
amateur or elite level.
TheinitiativewaslaunchedatEagleStadium on July 31.
DSA chief executive Ayden Shaw said these events are a fun, but vital way to help get people, at any age, involved in para-sports.
“Sport has the power to change people’s lives,” he said. “Our mission is to enable more Australians with a disability to be more active more often.
“We know 75 per cent of people with a disabilitywanttoplaysport,soBupa’ssupport at the grassroots level is vital to achieving our ambitions.
Paralympic gold medallist Matthew Haanappel was at the launch and said all
sporting careers and healthy active lifestyles start at a grassroots level which is why developing and supporting community-based programs are important.
Bupa Asia Pacific brand director Penny Ryan said it’s important to help support the development and promotion of para-sports at a grassroots level, especially when only one in four people with disability participate in sport.
“Bupa’spurposeistohelppeoplelivelonger, healthier, and happier lives, so we are very excited to put this purpose into action with Disability Sports Australia,” she said. Details: https://ticketing.humanitix.com/ tours/bupa-try-para-sports
“Blankets and bed linen for cots and bassinets,” she said. “Single size sheets and blankets.
“Lots of families are in cold houses with inadequate bedding or just have one set and it can’t be washed as it doesn’t dry.”
People looking to donate can donate items to any of the three warehouses, while there are volunteers who accept items outside of hours. Money can also be donated to help buy items,
Ms Quigley said they were always in need of volunteers across the three locations, especially Tarneit.
Details: https://biggrouphug.org/
Have your say
Wyndhamresidentsarebeingencouraged to have their say on what sports and activities they might enjoy at the future indoor sports stadium in Tarneit.
Mayor Jennie Barrera said an indoor sports stadium in the northern end of the city would be a welcome addition to the network of sporting venues that are already open.
“As our community grows, an indoor sportsstadiuminTarneitwillbewelcome to meet increased demand,” she said.
“We’d like to better understand the sports and activities residents in and aroundTarneitmightliketoseedelivered at the stadium and this information will help shape the design, staging and future programming of the facility.
“We know there’s an interest for indoor court sports like basketball and netball and a growing following for badminton, table tennis and volleyball.”
“We look forward to learning more about our community’s interests as we undertake this consultation and invite residents to attend a drop-in session to find out more about the project.”
ThefacilitywillbelocatedintheTarneit towncentreandisproposedtoincludesix indoor multi-use sport courts, a regional gymnastics centre, multipurpose rooms for exercise and sport sessions, cafe, administration offices and amenities.
Residentscanhavetheirsayattwodrop in sessions on Thursday, August 8, from 4-6.30pm at Tarneit Central Shopping Centre, 540 Derrimut Road, Tarneit, and Monday, August 19, from 4.30-7pm at Tarneit Community Learning Centre, 150 Sunset Views Boulevard, Tarneit.
Feedback can also be provided online until August 31. Details: theloop. wyndham.vic.gov.au/tarneit-indoorsports-facility
Paralympic gold medallist Matthew Haanappel with some of the participants. (Supplied)
Preps celebrate 100 days at Woodville Primary School
Woodville Primary School is excited to announce the wonderful achievement of its 2024 Prep students celebrating their 100 days of school.
Students were encouraged to dress up as an elderly person to represent the day. They participated in numerous fun and engaging activities, games, crafts, and a special pizza lunch.
Students enjoy numerous engaging and whole school events throughout the year, whether it be sporting events, cultural days, community events, fundraising activities (Big Colour Fun Run).
WeencourageallnewfamiliestoWoodville Primary School to book a tour of our school with the principal and become acquainted with the school environment.
We encourage nearby kindergartens students to participate in our playdates, so
they become familiar with the surroundings. We also conduct transition sessions for our future2025Prepstudentswhobeginforming friendships whilst getting to know teachers and classrooms. The website www.woodvilleps.vic.edu. au provides further information about the school. Once students are enrolled, our families gain access to the school’s communication platform Compass.
Woodville Primary School community prides itself on the school values; Respect, Responsibility, Resilience and Inclusiveness. Student wide positive behaviour is celebrated on a daily basis whereby students are recognised for the accomplishments of effort and achievement with gold and purple awards which are celebrated with their peers and shared with their families.
Comfort food with a twist: 2024’s food trends revealed
As we progress through 2024, several exciting food trends are emerging, reflecting the evolving tastes and priorities of consumers. From sustainability to innovative flavors and health-focused options, here are the top food trends expected to dominate in 2024:
Sustainable and Regenerative Agriculture:
Sustainability continues to be a major focus in the food industry. In 2024, there is a growing emphasis on regenerative agriculture, which goes beyond sustainable practices to actively restore and improve ecosystems. This includes methods like crop rotation, cover cropping, and reduced tillage to enhance soil health and biodiversity. Consumers are increasingly seeking out products that are not only environmentally friendly but also contribute to the health of the planet.
Plant-Based Innovations:
The plant-based movement is evolving with more sophisticated and diverse offerings. Beyond traditional soy and almond-based products, expect to see innovations in plant-based meats, seafood, and dairy alternatives. Companies are exploring new protein sources such as peas, mung beans, and chickpeas, creating products that closely mimic the taste and texture of their animal-based counterparts.
Upcycled Ingredients:
To combat food waste, the use of upcycled ingredients is becoming more mainstream. Upcycled foods are made from ingredients that would otherwise be discarded, such as
vegetable peels, surplus produce, and spent grains. These ingredients are transformed into nutritious and delicious products like snacks, flours, and beverages. This trend not only addresses food waste but also offers unique flavours and added nutritional value.
Cultural Fusion and Global Flavors: Globalisation continues to influence culinary trends, with a fusion of flavors and ingredients from different cultures creating innovative dishes. In 2024, expect to see more cross-cultural culinary mashups, such as Korean-Mexican tacos, Indian-inspired pizza, and Japanese-Italian fusion pasta. This trend celebrates diversity and brings bold, new
flavours to the table.
Hyper-Local Sourcing:
The farm-to-table movement is evolving into hyper-local sourcing, where restaurants and consumers prioritise ingredients sourced from local farms and producers within a very short distance. This trend supports local economies, reduces carbon footprints, and ensures fresher, seasonal produce.
Tech-Driven Personalisation:
Advances in technology are enabling greater personalisation in food choices. Apps and platforms that offer personalised nutrition advice based on individual health data, preferences, and genetic information are
New waterfront dining at Wyndham Harbour
In the winter of 2023, 3030 Boulevard was reinvigorated. It went from being a humble pizza place in an outdoor setting to a fully-fledged, fun and casual waterfront dining destination.
The fake grass of old was replaced by polished concrete, the breezy shade sails were taken down and a fully enclosed roof structure with roll-up walls was installed to keep the rain out and the new heating and air conditioning in.
Nowcalled3030Waterfront,thosestunning views are now seen from a comfortable, yet fresh and vibrant space protected from the elements.
The food
Local family man Steven Doyle took over the pans in the new kitchen taking the menu to new heights using local produce and freshest seafood. Bold and big flavours now hit the dining tables straight from the grill. Think char-grilled prawns with chilli, garlic, lemon and salsa verde to share; or crispy-skin Barramundi (from Werribee’s own Aquaculture farm) with artichoke, fennel, potatoes and herbs.
Don’t worry, pizza is still a thing! Now using a 72-hour fermented dough, Angelo the pizzaiolo only uses the best toppings and changes then with seasons. Try the wintery
Norcina with pork sausage, for di latte, mushrooms and truffle cream paired with a glass of Chianti from Tuscany.
Speaking of wine....
The drinks
A partnership was struck with CBCo, a no-nonsense brewery in Port Melbourne with one of Australia’s best pale ales, the freshest beer gets trucked to 3030 Waterfront at Wyndham Harbour every week. The bar,
2 Course Lunch
now with beer on tap, can whip up signature cocktails or prime you with prosecco as you watch the sun go down over the bay.
The wine
AwinelistmanagedbySteedSherriffisquality driven with some interestingly different varieties. A Pinot Blanc from Alsace in France will drink well with the seafood offering, while a Yarra Valley Pinot Noir from Payten and Jones will sing with the confit duck with
on the rise. This trend empowers consumers to make informed choices about their diet and health, tailoring their food intake to meet specific nutritional needs and lifestyle goals.
Comfort Food with a Twist: In response to the ongoing desire for comfort and nostalgia, classic comfort foods are being reinvented with modern twists. Think elevated mac and cheese with gourmet ingredients, plant-based meatloaf, or artisanal grilled cheese sandwiches. These reimagined comfort foods offer a sense of familiaritywhileincorporatingcontemporary flavours.
wild mushroom risotto on Thursday’s Locals Night. 500ml carafes are also available of all wines by the glass.
The space
It’s never been easier to organise a gathering or large event with 3030 Waterfront, email Molly at elements@wyndhamharbour.com.au
3030WaterfrontisopenThursdaytoSunday from 12 midday until late. For bookings go to 3030waterfront.com.au or call 9233 8533
Pan-fried Snapper, Potato Mash, Tomato, Olive, Caper Herb Salsa
Gnocchi, Basil Pesto, Green Beans, Leek, Broccolini, Kale, Pecorino
72 Hour Dough, Confit Garlic, Rosemary, Olive, Sea Salt
Baby Pizza Plate
Pan-fried Snapper, Potato Mash, Tomato, Olive, Caper Herb Salsa or Gnocchi, Basil Pesto, Green Beans, Leek, Broccolini, Kale, Pecorino
72 Hour Dough, Confit Garlic, Rosemary, Olive, Sea Salt
Baby Pizza Plate
3030 Waterfront.
Tips to keep kids engaged when the family is dining out
When dining out at a restaurant with kids, it’s essential to have a few tricks up your sleeve to keep them entertained and engaged. Here are some creative ideas to ensure a pleasant andenjoyableexperiencefortheentirefamily:
Bring quiet activities: Pack a small bag with colouringbooks,crayons,stickers,andpuzzles. These quiet and portable activities can keep kids occupied while waiting for their food or during lulls in the conversation.
Play interactive games: Engage the kids with interactive games that require minimal materials. For example, play ‘I Spy’ or ‘20 Questions’ to encourage observation and critical thinking skills. You can also create a restaurant-themed scavenger hunt by giving them a list of items to find in the restaurant.
Storytelling: Encourage storytelling by taking turns telling a story. Start a story with a sentence, and each person adds a sentence to continue the narrative. This game not only entertains the kids but also stimulates their imagination.
Tablecloth doodles: If the restaurant provides paper tablecloths, let the kids unleash their creativity by drawing and doodling. It’s a fun and mess-free activity that keeps them occupied.
DIY placemats: Create personalised placemats for the kids using plain paper or colouring sheets. They can decorate their placemats with drawings,stickers,ortheirnames.Thisactivity adds a personal touch and keeps them engaged during the meal.
Memory games: Play memory games by listing items on the table and challenging the kids to remember as many as they can. You can make it more challenging by removing an item and seeing if they can spot the missing one.
Conversation starters: Keep the conversation flowing by using conversation starters. Ask
thought-provoking questions like, “If you could have any superpower, what would it be?” or “What’s your favorite thing to do on weekends?” This not only keeps the kids engaged but also encourages communication and bonding. Origami or paper folding: Bring a pack of origami paper and teach the kids how to fold simple origami figures. There are numerous tutorials available online, ranging from easy to
more complex designs.
Portablegames: Bringalongtravel-sizedboard games or card games that the whole family can enjoy. Classics like Uno, Connect Four, or Spot It! are compact and suitable for restaurant settings.
Engage with the menu: Involve the kids in the menu selection process. Ask for their input on what they would like to order or encourage them to try new foods. Discussing the menu
notonlykeepsthemengagedbutalsopromotes their decision-making skills. Remember, it’s also crucial to set expectationsandestablishgoodbehavioratthe restaurant.Encouragegoodmanners,patience, and gratitude towards the waitstaff. With a combination of these entertaining activities and proper behavior, dining out with kids can becomeapleasantandenjoyableexperiencefor everyone involved.
Voices raised in gospel harmony
By Afraa Kori
Gospel artist Iren Nondo shone a spotlight on the often-overlooked genre with her first debut headline at Werribee Baptist Church, bringing together 150 attendees from diverse cultures, states, and demographics.
The concert, held on July 20, featured special performances by African American Pastor Joshua Long from Melbourne and gospel artist Rachel from Adelaide.
“I was drawn to the ministers of God that are very dedicated and they are true to what they’re doing. I just wanted to do something with them, because they inspire me in the ministry,” Nondo said.
Growing up in a Christian household contributed to her music career and boosted
MY PLACE
her confidence to come out of her shell.
“MyfamilysingsgospelandI’msurrounded with people that inspire me in terms of spirituality,” she said.
“I have been ministering and singing in church, but I wanted to do something outside of that, which still involves the community and invite them to worship God. A concert is something I wanted to do a long time ago and it was burning inside of me.”
Nondo’s music director from Adelaide, Jeff Seraphin, said the concert had a profound impact on the community, including the music industry.
“I know that Iren’s fan base is mostly Congolese people and her local church, so in terms of the community, this event will highlight the power of music and how that
can unite and uplift people. As the music director, her example encourages me to strive for music that resonates deeply with our audience. We do this by making sure the production is excellent and achieves a high level of musicianship.
“Even though it’s a very unpopular genre, I believe the concert will shine light on the gospel music industry in Australia. There’s always this taboo thing when it comestogospelmusicinAustralia,butIstrive to break through the cracks and essentially establish a set point that gospel music is alive. If we can do what the secular musicians are doing in terms of preparation and organization and still be able to spread a message of hope, it’sgoingtomakeadentinthemusicindustry.”
Katrina Gauci has called Wyndham home for over 25 years. She talks to Cade Lucas about performing with the Wyndham Theatre Company and why she loves living in Werribee South.
What is your connection to Wyndham?
I moved to Wyndham around 25 years ago. It was always my mother’s dream to live near the water. So we moved down to Werribee South. My two children and I now live in the house that we built. I am an registered nurseandhaveworkedlocallyinGPpractices, andInowworkfromhomeasanurseeducator. My children go to school locally. What do you like about where you live?
I love the city of Wyndham as it provides many opportunities for residents. There are great local places to eat and wonderful tourist attractions like the mansion and the Werribee Open Range Zoo. I love that residents can have a say in what happens here through community insight sessions run from the council.
What, if anything, would you change about where you live?
I would love to see more focus on the arts and community safety. I have been involved in some local theatre companies, most recently Wyndham Theatre Company’s production of After Dinner. It saddened me that despite being such a big municipality there is not a lot of focus on the arts and our production struggled to get large turnouts. Encouraging local arts would also give opportunities for youth to have an outlet for their interests. I would also love to see better health care in our large community. Having worked in medical clinics I have seen patients turned away from our local hospital due to shortages of beds and staff.
Where is your favourite local place to spend time?
One of my favourite places to go to is the Werribee South foreshore. I enjoy walking along the beach and seeing the boats come
in and out. I also love to eat out at local restaurants. Tell us something that people would be surprised to know about you. I am a solo mother by choice to two children
and 14 and I am
of a
of solo mums by choice. I love performing in local theatre having been involved with both Wyndham Theatre Company and Dynamic Performers Australia
aged nine
part
growing community
Katrina Gauci. (Damjan Janevski) 419998_01
Gospel artist Rachel and Iren Nondo.
Pastor Joshua Long.
Iren Nondo and the band. (Pictures: Zariff Photography)
Boost to women’s health hubs
Women in Melbourne’s north-west will have improved access to sexual and reproductive health, following the announcement of four healthcare hubs in the region.
The women’s sexual and reproductive health hubs will be established in Kyneton, Melton, Wyndham Vale and Broadmeadows and will join Victoria’s network of 20 women’s healthcare hubs across the state that are providing free or low-cost care including contraception, medical abortion, referral for surgical abortion and sexual health testing and treatment.
The Kyneton hub will be operated by Central Highlands Rural Health, while Western Health will operate the Melton hub and IPC Health will run the Wyndham Vale hub. DPV Health will operate the
Broadmeadows hub.
Thestategovernmentsaidthehublocations were selected following extensive sector consultation and are expected to help at least 4000 more girls and women access sexual and reproductive health services every year.
Part of a $153 million women’s health package, the hubs will transform the way women’s health issues are treated – breaking down barriers women and girls face in accessing affordable and comprehensive care, the government said.
Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas said the hubs would help women to feel safe and supported when accessing the care they need, including medical and surgical abortion
The workforce supporting the hubs will also benefit from the government’s Women’s
Health Scholarship program, helping to address existing skills and knowledge shortages when it comes to women’s health.
More than 100 scholarships will be delivered, offering chances to upskill in areas like IUD insertion, sexual and reproductive health, pelvic physio training, menopause and Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
The scholarships will also fund training to promote cultural safety and remove existing barriers for First Nations women, women from migrant and refugee backgrounds and LGBTIQA+ communities.
Premier Jacinta Allan said the hubs would help to bridge the gender health gap.
“With these hubs, we’ll help make sure more women can get the affordable and accessible care they need,” she said.
Women’s health issues must be a priority: GPs
GPs are calling for greater action to better address women’s health issues.
It follows the release of the Royal Australian College of GPs (RACGP) guidelines for preventive activities in general practice.
Knownas‘theRedBook’,theguidelineswere first published in 1989 and supports preventive activities in general practice.
The latest edition strongly focuses on women’s health issues, including new content on pregnancy, conception, perinatal mental health and post-menopause care.
RACGP president Dr Nicole Higgins welcomed the release of the guidelines and called for action. go,” she said.
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AdvisoryCouncilandaGP…addressinghealth inequalities for women and girls in Australia is something I’m passionate about. There are so many areas where we can and should do better.
“Too many women are still suffering severe effects from endometriosis and not being properly listened to, let alone given the care theyneed.Changemusthappennow,toomany girls and women are missing out.”
RedBookexecutivecommitteechairDanielle Mazza said the latest edition contained key guidance on women’s health issues.
“We want all pregnant women to have their first antenatal visit within the first 10 weeks of pregnancy. Regular antenatal care that starts early in the pregnancy is associated with better
maternal health and positive outcomes for the child. Unfortunately, just over 20 per cent of women don’t access antenatal care in their first trimester, and mothers are more likely to fall into this category if they are younger than 20 yearsofage,smokeduringpregnancy,useillicit substances or live remotely. So, compared to most countries around the world we are doing well, but we still have room for improvement,” Professor Mazza said.
“Our Red Book contains useful guidance for GPs conducting this care, including screening formentalhealthconcerns,smokingstatusand exposure to second-hand smoke, and clinical risk factors for pre-eclampsia, a potentially dangerous complication characterised by high blood pressure.”
A festival with a fruity flavour
Afterweeksofpreparation,thisSundaymarks the return of the Werribee Park Heritage Orchard Winter Heritage Fruit Tree Festival.
The festival is one of the largest fruit tree gatherings in Australia, a day to celebrate growing fruit trees and preserving heritage varieties.
On the main stage, Craig Castree will offer grafting demonstrations and answer gardening questions. Scion will be available to purchase to add to your fruit trees, as well as rare and heritage fruiting plants and trees. There will be pruning demonstrations and you can walk through the orchard on a guided tour and hear about its journey over the past few years. You can also join the Werribee River keeper for a tour along the river, listen to talks from Werribeeks on beekeeping or learn how to create worm farms by Wormlovers.
Enjoy live music, watch the blacksmith at work, grab a bite to eat, and browse the stalls
selling all things gardening and more. Be inspired by the thriving community gardens and explore the historic buildings dating back to the 1800s with visits from Friends of Werribee Park dressed in farm attire.
The orchard dates back to the 1870s when Thomas Chirnside started planting his orchard with fruit trees included peaches, grapes, apples, quinces, pears, a variety of plums and several other fruits, as well as walnuts and olives.
All activities are free, with a gold coin donation for parking. The festival runs from 10am to 3pm on 11 August and is a ‘must-attend’ event for all gardeners.
In partnership with Parks Victoria, a community group was formed in 2010 to look after the orchard. New volunteers are always welcome,noexperiencerequired. Tobecomea volunteer, register with ParkConnect - https:// www.parkconnect.vic.gov.au/Account/Login/ Register
Professor Danielle Mazza and Assistant Health Minister Ged Kearney. (Supplied)
Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas and Premier Jacinta Allan. (Supplied)
Get crafty for Children’s Book Week
Each month, Stephanie Martinez will share an exciting craft project designed to inspire and spark creativity.
Stephanie starred in the first season MakingIt on Network 10, where she discovered and ignited her passion for crafting. Join Stephanie as she explores the endless possibilities of crafting and turn everyday materials into something extraordinary.
This month, Stephanie is creating monster bookmarks in honour of Children’s BookWeek(August17-23).
Happy crafting!
Tree champions
Budding green thumbs from Wimba Primary School have helped improve their school’s natural landscape by planting over 100 trees and shrubs.
The Tarneit students joined forces with developer Newhaven estate developer, Peet, to plant the trees and shrubs to mark National Tree Day on July 26.
The native grasses, shrubs and seedlings were planted in garden beds near the school’s gymnasium and Yarning Circle.
Principal Paul Schwartz said the day was a great way to foster relationships between the students and the broader community.
“The donated trees and plants not only enhance the school’s natural grounds and our Yarning Circle but also provide a great
experience for the students to learn more about planting and gardening.,” he said.
Peet managing director and chief executive Brendan Gore said the company was committedtodeliveringsustainableoutcomes for the community.
“NewhavenisoneofanumberofPeetestates around the country that support National TreeDayasanationalcommunityinitiativeto educate students about sustainability and the role we can all play in having a positive impact on our local environment,” he said.
The event marks a significant milestone for Wimba Primary School, which opened its doorsearlierthisyear.Thenewlyplantedtrees and shrubs will serve as a living reminder of the school’s continued growth as the plants grow alongside the students.
Monster bookmarks
Materials: Googly eye
Marker
Coloured cardboard
Coloured yarn 30cm x four pieces
Equipment: Template
Glue stick
Scissors
Hole puncher
1/ Can the QR right to download and print the template for the monster bookmark and nose.
2/ Use the template to cut out the monster and the nose.
3/ Create a hole at the top of the monster. Fold the pieces of yarn in half, thread through the hole and tie a lark’s head knot.
4/ Glue googly eye in place. Fold the top of the nose and glue the folded part to the monster.
5/ Glue some colourful strips at the bottom of the monster.
6/ Draw an eyebrow and a mouth for the monster. Cut out a tooth and glue it in place.
7/ Give the monster some spots by hole punching some cardboard and randomly gluing them.
LOT 457, 12 AARON ROAD, TARNEIT
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Opportunities like these don't come around very often at all, so be sure to make your inquiries as quickly as you can and secure this magnificent opportunity that's here, willing and waiting to be completed.
AUCTION 10th August at 12.45pm
Wimba Primary students Shaheer, Sahasra, Ayush, Agamjot, Aarav, Aaditya, Yuvraj, Imran, Avikaar, Mayan, Cooper, Hassan, Guransh and Kaleb. (Supplied)
Get ready for Children’s Book Week by creating your own monster bookmark. (Supplied)
Instagram: Steph It Up with Stephanie Tik Tok: Steph It Up with Stephanie
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
Lions Club
The Lions Club of Point Cook meets at the Featherbrook Community Centre on the third Monday of the month at 7.30 pm. The club is seeking to grow the Lions free vision screening in schools team. Volunteers needed to work with the region’s schools in combating undiagnosed children’s vision issues. You do not have to be a Lions member but must obtain a working with children check.
■ Robert Eyton, 0417 549 684 or robeyton@bigpond.com
Werribee Jazz Club
Join the Werribee Jazz Club on the second Sunday of the month from 2pm to 5pm, for three hours of great music, dancing or relaxed listening. You can enjoy live bands featuring some of Australia’s best jazz musicians playing traditional, dixieland, swing, R’n’B and mainstream jazz. BYO nibbles, drinks available at moderate bar prices with complimentary tea and coffee. We are located at the Werribee Bowls Club, Watton Street, Werribee. Entry: $22.
■ Jenny, 0419 558 481
Drumming classes
Community adult drumming class. If you ever wanted to try out your rhythmic skills, the first class is free and concessions apply for other classes. All hand drums supplied or BYO. No experience required, just bring an open heart and mind and enjoy making some great rhythms together. The class is friendly and welcoming to everyone. Thursdays, 7.30pm to 8.30pm, during school terms, at Saltwarter Community Centre, 153 Saltwater Parade, Point Cook.
■ 0411 028 077 or bfmusic15@gmail.com
Wyndham Ladies Probus
Retired or semi-retired ladies are invited to join this very active social group. Enjoy impressive monthly guest speakers, interesting monthly outings and many lunches where the development of friendships is encouraged. The Ladies Probus Club of Wyndham meets on the first Wednesday of each month at Hotel 520, Sayers Road, Tarneit, at 10am.
■ Pat 0411 316 795
Point Cook VIEW
The Point Cook Day VIEW Club (for ladies) meets on the fourth Wednesday of the month at the Point Cook Library, 1-21 Cheetham Street, Point Cook. Members enjoy afternoon teas and outings. New members welcome. VIEW Is part of the Smith Family.
■ Catherine, 0407 726 852.
Watton Group
A support group providing a social space for carers to get together in a safe and compassionate environment. Gives carers an opportunity to connect, share their experiences and offers emotional and practical support. The group meets at the Eco-Living Centre at 10am, every fourth Tuesday of the month.
■ Patricia, 0434 487 360, or wattongroup131@gmail.com.
All Abilities Netball
All Abilities Netball for 10-to-25-year-olds is run by Wyndham Netball Association every Saturday morning during school terms, from 10.30am, on outside court 14 at Eagle Stadium, Ballan Road, Werribee. Intellectual, physical and social disabilities are catered for in a fun and supported group. Come and try your first session for free, with stadium entry $2.
■Phil, 0437 078 739
Wyndham Rotary
Wyndham Rotary welcomes people interested in helping people in need in the community. Interested in finding out more, come to the Italian Sports Club each Wednesday at 6.30pm for a meal, to share ideas and to work for a common cause.
■ Julie, 0406 196 630
Werribee Rotary Grants
Werribee Rotary are welcoming applicants for the 2024 Rotary Grants. Applications open on August 1 and close on September 30 2024.Seven grants will be available to a maximum of $3,000 each. Applicants must be registered as an approved community organisation within Wyndham and the project should directly benefit a larger number of persons or community groups in the municipality. Approved applications will be awarded in November.
Applications can only be submitted for consideration at the web site: https:// werribeerotary.org.au
■ Steve Weston Rotary Werribee 0448448189
With One Voice choir
With One Voice Wyndham Choir is a community choir open to all. The community choir welcomes all ages, abilities, faiths, cultures and genders and is directed by a very experienced and friendly professional conductor. Fun weekly rehearsals and amazing performance opportunities are provided. They sing for an hour and then have a cuppa. The first two visits are free; and then payment is by tax-deductible donation. Tuesday evenings, 7-8.30pm, at Wayaperri House, 106 Duncans Road, Werribee.
■ wyndham@withonevoice.org.au
Adult community garden group
The group meets on the first Tuesday of the month, 10-11.30am, at Iramoo Community Centre, 84 Honour Avenue, Wyndham Vale. Head down and join them as they maintain their rejuvenated
community garden. Planting and harvesting produce that they grow.
■ 8742 3688
Seniors House of Fun
The Grange Community Centre invites seniors of Wyndham to its weekly Seniors House of Fun. This is a free program running every Friday, 11am-12.30pm, at The Grange Community Centre, 260-280 Hogans Road, Hoppers Crossing.
■ Vanessa, 8742 8000, or enquires@ grangecommunity.org.au
Seniors club
The Werribee Senior Citizens Club meets at 80 Lonsdale Circuit, Hoppers Crossing. The group is open to all people 55-plus and it runs on Wednesdays, 10am-noon. Entry: $2, includes morning tea.
■ 0403 041 499
Diabetes Support Group
The Werribee Diabetes support provides an opportunity to hear from experts on how to manage your diabetes, to share information on diabetes and to engage with other diabetics. Meetings are at the old council shire buildings at 10am every second Friday of the month.
■Bob, 0409 252872.
Hoppers Crossing Ladies Probus
The friendly and vibrant group meet at Hotel 520 on the second Wednesday of each month from 10am. They have a guest speaker each month as well as social lunches, outings and theatre trips.
■ 0408 123 669
U3A Werribee
The group is a not-for-profit community organisation for semi-retired and retired Wyndham residents. They hold a variety of classes-activities specifically designed for seniors, including, light physical and mental wellbeing sessions, arts, games and craft, and general classes such as current affairs, history and lunch groups. Most classes-activities are held at Wyndham community centres.
■ Rick, 0402 299 220.
Lions Club
Lions Club of Werribee meets at the RSL Club, 2a Synnot Street, Werribee on the first and third Wednesday of the month at 6.30pm.
■ Jorge, 0433 566 575 Bingo for all
The Werribee RSL hosts Bingo every Monday between 12.30-2.30pm.
■ 9741 5525
Western Budgerigar Club
The Western Suburbs Budgerigar Club meets at 7.30pm on the third Thursday of each month at Masonic Hall, 223 Watton Street, Werribee. Meet other members who are also passionate about breeding Budgerigars.
■ Don, 0414 975 862
Western Melbourne Men’s Chorus
Do you like to sing■ The Western Melbourne Men’s Chorus wants you! Be part of a rewarding fraternity of fellow amateur musicians serving the community, sharing comradery and having fun. Rehearsals at 7:00PM Tuesday evenings at St. James Church, Hoppers Crossing.
■ Chris, 0400 414 215
Dementia Carers Group
IPC Health Dementia Carers Group is held on the first Tuesday of the month, from 12.30-2.30pm. The group si for people who care for someone with dementia or a similar condition associated with memory loss. It empowers carers through education, social connectedness and emotional support while socialising and meeting people in similar situations. Registration is essential.
■ Leah Hewitt or Joyce Chan, 1300 472 432 or https://bit.ly/48QFwBa
Werribee River Association
New volunteers to support Landcare work along the Werribee River. A great way to give back, get outdoors and work at your own pace.
■ Lisa Field, 0433 559 530, admin@ werribeeriver.org.au, or www.werribeeriver. org.au
This week’s photographer’s choice is of St Peter’s Catholic Primary School West Sunshine wellbeing dog Tilly, who was celebrating her first birthday (Damjan Janevski) 421792_01
Bands to unite for music festival
By Tara Murray
Musicians from across Melbourne’s west will have the chance to shine at the first Western Bands Festival.
ThebrainchildoftheWesternConcertBand, the festival will give concert and brass bands the opportunity to perform locally.
Western Concert Band musical director and conductorHarryMerrifieldsaidhewasexcited for the festival and hoped it could become an annual event.
“It’s been inspired by a previous festival that hadhappenedbutitwasonlyforconcertbands only,” he said.
“Thistimewehaveexpandedtheprogramto include concert and brass bands.”
Five bands will be part of the first festival. The Western Concert Band will be joined by Suzanne Cory High School, Western Brass, Sunshine Community Brass and Westgate Concert Band.
The bands will all perform individually before taking the stage for two combined performances at the end of the festival.
Merrifield said a lot of concert and brass bands don’t get the opportunity to perform at concerts.
“It’s a great opportunity for bands to get critical feedback from a clinical professional and network without being in a competitive environment,” he said.
“It’s an opportunity for each of the bands to showoffwhattheycando.Wecannetworkand
there could be opportunities to work together in the future.”
YamahaeducationoutreachclinicianDrRob McWilliams and Haileybury College head of bands Dr Joanne Heaton will assess the bands
Health and wellness at the winery
People in Melbourne’s west who want to take control of their wellbeing are being invited to immersethemselvesintranquillityatStAnne’s Winery.
The Myrniong winery has teamed up with UrbanMarketstoruntheHealthandHarmony Expo on Sunday, August 18. The event will run from 10am to 4pm at 64 Garrards Lane. Iftheexposeemsfamiliar,that’sbecausethis is not the first time St Anne’s has collaborated with Urban Markets to run a wellness event.
Jake Currey, who does a “bit of everything” at St Anne’s, said it was exciting to be “making a comeback after a few years of hiatus”.
Mr Currey said while they were hoping to attract the same crowd, there would be plenty of different things on offer this time around.
“We are trying to make it more of an expo rather than a market where you wander around, there are a few little fun activities for people … to make it more interactive rather than just selling products,’’ he said.
“We’re trying to get a bit of everything – the usual candle and wellness related stalls as well as some tarot card readings.”
Urban Markets owner Felicity Ashman said yoga, meditation, exercise, and natural foods were all on the table for the expo.
“We are looking to promote local businesses that support a balanced lifestyle… and any type of health and wellness,” Ms Ashman said.
MsAshmansaidthecombinationofoutdoor and indoor settings at the winery made it a prime spot for the expo.
“Itisparticularlyexcitingtobebackworking with St Anne’s – it’s such a lovely atmosphere out there and a perfect location to have something like this.”
Wild Dreamers will put on a show dedicated to Linda Ronstadt at Newport Bowls Club on August 31.
Attendees can enjoy a captivating Saturday night immersed in the timeless classics from Ronstadt’s extraordinary repertoire.
Ronstadt is an American singer who has won 11 Grammy awards and has performed in diverse genres, including rock, country, light opera, and Latin music.
Dubbed the “queen of rock” or “first lady of rock,” Ronstadt was the top-selling female rock artist of the 1970s and one of the most artistically diverse recording artists of the last 50 years.
Wild Dreamers band will perform 20 to 25 Ronstadt chart-toppers, including When Will I Be Loved, You’re No Good, It’s So Easy, Blue Bayou, and Different Drum.
Wild Dreamers vocalist Lisa Mio said the band wants to pay tribute to Ronstadt for her remarkable contributions as a performer and a great musician.
“I don’t want people to forget what an amazing contribution she made as a vocalist and as ... an activist,” Mio said.
“She’s, you know, very politically minded and always wants to stand up for the ones that can’t stand up for themselves.”
Wild Dreamers band members include Lisa Mio on lead vocals, Jo George on backing vocals, Gary Young on lead guitar, Cres Crisp on keyboards, Nigel Davis on drums, and Phil Smith on bass guitar.
Details: .trybooking.com/events/ landing/1236786
Anne Parisianne
and provide them with feedback. The festival is on August 10, from 9am-2pm, at the Suzanne Cory High School auditorium, 225 Hoppers Lane, Werribee. Entry is via gold coin donation.
A Maltese tradition
The Brimbank community will come together for a weekend of festivities to mark the 41st year of the Festa Santa Marija Assunta in Deer Park.
The traditional procession is a part of the Festa Santa Marija Assunta, celebrated on August 15 each year and marks the ascent into heaven by the Virgin Mary.
It will take place on Thursday, August 15, from 6.15pm, and the service in Maltese and English will include a presentation of flowers to Santa Marija and the carrying of the statue, with a celebratory mass accompanied by the M.W.F. Philippine Choir.
Following the service, The MMG Concert Band of Victoria will be playing Marian Hymnal Marches. This will be held at the St Peter Chanel, 800 Ballarat Road, Deer Park.
ThenonSaturday,August17,theLuxor function centre on Sydenham Road will play host to the annual Santa Marija Assunta dinner dance from 6.30pm. MusicwillbeplayedbyDJDominicand traditional Maltese band Philharmonic Society inc.
On Sunday, August 18, the festivities will return to the St Peter Chanel, for a Festa Day service at 2pm, and a procession parade from 3.30pm. Organiser Frank Galea said the celebrations pay tribute to the Maltese culturesomanylocalsfeelgreatnostalgia, with a strong Maltese community in the area.
Joanne George and Lisa Mio from Wild Dreamers. (Damjan Janevski) 421523_05
The Western Concert Band will perform at the Western Bands Festival. (Supplied)
Jake Currey. (Damjan Janevski) 422618_01
A previous celebration in Deer Park. (Supplied)
- By Contacting the Assessing Officer on the contact number above
Any person who may be affected by the granting of the permit may object or make other submissions to the Responsible Authority by post or in person or; - Online: www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/planningobjection -Email:statplanning@wyndham.vic.gov.au
An objection must be made to the Responsible Authority in writing, include the reasons for the objection and state how the objector would be affected. If you object, the Responsible Authority will tell you of its decision.
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ACROSS
1 Quandary (7)
5 Dead body (7)
9 Demolition (11)
10 Bolt or pin (3)
11 Beachgoer’s two-piece (6)
12 Apotheosis (7)
14 Island of Hawaii (4)
15 Personal items (10)
17 Dwarf (10)
19 Occurring before (abbr) (4)
20 Sink (coll) (7)
22 New Delhi native (6)
25 The Peacock Network (1,1,1)
26 Reciprocal (11)
28 Died (7)
29 Potentially guilty party (7)
DOWN
1 Prank (US coll) (4)
2 Languor (9)
3 Festival, – Gras (5)
4 Group of islands (11)
5 Digitally generated imagery (1,1,1)
6 Jogging (7)
7 White person (5)
8 Disruptive (10)
12 Efficiency increasers (11)
13 Significance (10)
16 Account of events (9)
18 Princess Diana’s maiden name (7)
21 Summary (5)
23 Ties (5)
24 Flesh (4)
27 Dowel (3)
3 LETTERS
7 words: Good 11 words: Very good 15 words: Excellent Today’s Aim:
1 Where was Queen Noor of Jordan born?
2 Who directed the 1994 film Muriel'sWedding
In which 2013 film does Mark Ruffalo
No.
Is this Honda’s best ever Accord?
By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring
Few vehicles can match the Honda Accord for longevity.
On the road in Australia since 1977, the award-winning sedan, now in its 11th generation, shows no sign of going away anytime soon.
Surprisingly, despite it being one of the maker’s most important nameplates, the latest Accord, a petrol-electric hybrid, stands alone in its bid to keep the opposition at bay. In doing so the Accord e:HEV RS – touted as the best Honda Accord ever – claims to deliver an unbeatable combination of style, efficiency, performance and connectivity.
But does it?
Hondahasturnedtotweetypeofphilosophy to describe the essence of the new Accord, saying the development team wanted to create a vehicle that allowed the ‘passionate achiever’ to express their status and help them change their mindset as they headed to their next destination.
However, when it comes to choice of models and pricing the sedan comes down to brass tacks: a single model with an eyewatering sticker price of $64,990, far above most of the opposition. The Accord e:HEV RS is covered by Honda’s five-year unlimited kilometre warranty with eight years for the battery.
Styling
Honda is at it again, opining that a ‘creative black tie’ concept combines individuality with thebasicsofformalwearatahighlevel,making the driver appear accomplished and appealing. Sorry, Honda, the look is just bland.
Today’sAccordissoyesterdayinappearance, evenwithits‘long,cleanbodylinesandastrong powerfulfrontend,blackedoutheadlights,and wide upright grille flanked by air curtain inlets routing cooling air through the bumper and around the front wheels’.
Longerthanitspredecessor,afactemphasised by a ‘sharp upper character line’ and swoopy roof culminating in a fastback rear with distinctive LED flush tail lamps highlighting a wide stance. Machined matte black 18-inch wheels aim for a sporty appearance but fail to elevate it to the ‘black tie’ level.
The most modern feature up front is out of sight. The active shutter system behind the upper grille, commonplace on EVs these days, opens and shuts to control the amount of air flowing through the engine radiator and air-con condenser. Keeping shutters closed cuts aerodynamic drag, hence energy consumption.
Interior
While reasons for the Accord’s exterior is obscure, the cabin, happily, comes down to reality with up-to-date design using premium materials, highlighted by a honeycomb metal mesh strip across the dashboard separating audio and information displays and climate controls, while concealing the air vents.
Front seats are designed to stabilise the body, especially in spirited driving, enhance comfort and reduce fatigue on long journeys. Bigger exterior dimensions than before ensure more rear leg room and make space for 570 litres of luggage with the single rear seatback (no 60:40 split) up.
However, head room is limited by the sunroof and steeply sloping rear, and because of the hybrid set-up, there’s only room out back for a tyre repair kit.
Infotainment
The driver is the focus of the 10.2-inch instrument display with a new interface, which includes an energy flow meter in place of the tacho.TheupdatedHondaSensingisoneofthe user-selectable features.
A 12.3-inch touchscreen gives access to a revamped range of menus including audio and air-con. Honda says fewer embedded menus are easier to access. There’s still room for improvement here.
One nice touch, however, is the ‘Experience Selection Dial’, which has a circular display
defaulting to a digital clock, providing quick controlsofair-conditioninganddriverprofiles.
The new Accord features Honda’s first application of Google built-in, which includes Google Maps, Google Assistant and Google Play, plus satellite navigation and live traffic updates at the spoken request ‘Hey, Google’.
New-generation Honda Connect features a refreshed app interface, improved response time and other new features. Over The Air software updates are a feature of the audio/ connectivity ECU.
An 11.5-inch windscreen head-up display incorporates speedo, navigation and driver assist features. A dial under the screen allows the driver to call up pre-selected mood profiles while driving.
Quality sound comes from the standard Bose 12-speaker audio system developed by engineers working closely with Honda from early in the design process, while Dynamic Speed Compensation automatically adjusts volume and tone based on vehicle speed.
Engines/transmissions
A fourth-generation dual-motor hybrid system is made up of a refined two-litre Atkinson cycle four-cylinder engine developing 108kW of power mated with a pair of more powerful electric motors mounted side by side. The E-CVT traction motor puts out 135kW of power and 335Nm of torque, while the generatormotorchargesthebatterypack.Total power output is 152kW. The E-CVT features
high and low speed lock-up for direct drive, a help on steep inclines.
Fuel consumption is claimed by the maker to be 4.3 litres per hundred kilometres on the combined urban/highway cycle. The test car recorded five litres per 100 kilometres in city and suburbs and 3.9 litres per 100 kilometres on the motorway. With a 48 litre fuel tank this adds up to around 1000 kilometres range, depending on driving style.
Safety
The Accord features the latest iteration of Honda’s ACE body structure through the use of high-strength steel and structure designed to dissipate crash energy efficiently around the cabin.
Honda Sensing safety and driver assistance has been made possible by updated front camera and radar. Four-wheel disc brakes incorporate a four-channel anti-lock system, electronic brake distribution and brake assist.
Eight airbags include driver and front seat passenger, driver and front passenger knee airbag, front side airbag and side curtain airbags.Anouterlapbeltpretensionerisusedon front seats, with a load limiter to prevent chest injuries.Intherear,outboardpretensionersare used, along with load limiters.
Driving
The hybrid system features a shift control which apes the gear shifting on a conventional drivetrainwhentheacceleratorisfullypressed.
Half a dozen levels of slowing are available through the shift paddles on the steering column.
Thevehicleautomaticallyswitchesseamlessly between EV, Hybrid and Engine drive modes optimising performance and efficiency. An ‘e’ button has the driver switching between Auto from to EV mode for pure electric driving and Charge mode which keeps the engine running longer to keep the battery fully charged.
New drive modes include Normal for balanced fuel efficiency and performance; Econ, which shifts to lower fuel consumption; Sport, for sharper throttle response with additionalsportysound;andIndividual,driver choosing the settings.
The new petrol-electric hybrid system has pushed the Accord top speed up to 200km/h. There’s no doubt much work has been done on the suspension and steering, combining a more engaging, yet comfortably smooth and quiet drive, while NVH is complemented by a quietened exhaust note.
New soundproofing and active noise control keep out intrusive cabin noise and construct ideal surroundings for the audio and passenger conversation.
Summary
There’s no denying the new Accord has a laundrylistofthelatestautomotivetechnology, driver aids and safety systems but do they add up to the $65K asking price? I’ll leave the potential buyer to make that decision.
Accord e:HEV RS is touted as the best Honda Accord ever, but it will cost you. (Pictures: Supplied)
Local results at Olympics so far
Here’s how the locals went at the Olympics during the last week.
Archery
After shooting the highest individual ranking round by an Australian since the current 72 arrow ranking, Laura Paeglis was drawn to face Caroline Lopez in the round of 32 elimination round. Paeglis led early with four points from the first two sets, but it was all Lopez after that taking the win 6-4.
Athletics
LongjumperChrisMitrevskicouldn’treplicate his form of the Australian championships at hisfirstOlympics.Havingjumpedajumpthat would have medalled in every Olympics since 1992, Mitrevski could only jump 7.79 metres in the qualifying rounds to miss the final. Amy Cashin was also in action in the 3000 metres steeplechase. She finished ninth in her heat, which included two runners breaking national records and another two getting personal bests.
Basketball
Both the Boomers and Opals are through to finals of the basketball competition. The Boomers had to rely on other results for them to qualify after losing to Greece in their final pool match.
In that match against Greece, Josh Giddey had nine points and Dante Exum had six. The Aussies now face Serbia in the quarter finals. The Opals had to win their final match with France to play finals, which they did 79-72. Tess Madgen led the way with 18 points, while Ezi Magbegor has 14 points.
Beach Volleyball
Thomas Hodges and his partner Zachery Schubert made it through to the lucky loser round of the men’s volleyball before losing to Americans Miles Evans and Chase Budinger 2-0 on Sunday, Australian time.
SPORTS QUIZ
1. How many Australians have won Formula 1 grand prix races?
2. Australian NBA player Josh Green was recently traded to which team?
3. How many points did New South Wales beat Queensland by in Game 3 of the 2024 State of Origin series?
Boxing Marissa Williamson was knocked out in the round of 16 in the women’s 66 kilogram competition. Anna Luca Hamori won 5-0.
Cycling Road cyclist Lucas Plapp withdrew from the road race on medical grounds after undergoing abdominal surgery for injuries he sustained in the individual time trial. In the women’s road race, Lauretta Hanson was the best of the Australian’s finishing in 22nd.
Judo
4. Which Australian boxer recently announced his next fight would be held in September 2024?
5. What is the only sport to have ever been played on the moon?
6. Who topped the medal tally at the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games?
Tour de France champion Tadej Pogacar hails from which country?
Mitch Creek recently announced he would be leaving which NBL team?
How many medals did swimmer Cody Simpson win at the 2022 Birmingham Commonwealth Games?
Australian runner Jessica Hull recently recorded a world record in which distance race?
UAE Team Emirates won which major recent event in the team classification category?
Aussie McLaren F1 driver Oscar Piastri won his maiden Grand Prix in Hungary at what age?
Aoife Coughlan won her round of 32 match with a golden score before taking on Germany’s Miriam Butkereit in the round of 16. It came down to a golden score again, with Butkereit scoring an Ippon, the highest score in judo, to claim the final and move through to the quarter finals. Katherina Haecker was knocked out of the judo women’s 63 kilogram event in the opening round. Haecker faced Great Britain’s Lucy Renshall losing 11-1.
Shooting James Willett made the final of the trap men’s
13. Which US pop star has been announced as part of the pre-game entertainment for the AFL Grand Final?
14. Which three-time Grand Slam tennis champion will retire from singles tournaments after the Paris Olympics?
15. Which Aussie batsman scored five consecutive half-centuries for Washington Freedom in the Major League Cricket T20 competition?
16. Jess Fox and Eddie Ockenden performed what duty at the 2024 Paris Olympics opening ceremony?
17. Which Australian city is the favourite to enter the NRL as the league’s 18th team in 2027?
18. Which former cyclist is the chef de mission for Australia’s Olympic team at Paris 2024?
19. Which African country qualified for the Men’s Olympic Basketball for the first time at the Paris Olympic Games?
final but couldn’t match it with the medal winners. Willett finished sixth in the six personfinalwith19pointsandwaseliminated on the second stage of the final. Great Britain’s Nathan Hales’ won with 48 points.
Swimming Johann Stickland finished in 66th spot in the men’s 100 metres freestyle heats. The Brimbank Aquatic and Wellness Centre staff member was competing for Samoa. He finished eighth in his heat with a time of 52.94.
20. The Nurburgring motor racing circuit is located in which European country?
21. Which nation did the Matildas defeat 6-5 at the Paris Olympic Games?
22. Isaac Heeney plays for which AFL team?
23. In which year did Roger Bannister break the four-minute mile?
24. Which English bowler recently retired after a 21-year career and 704 Test wickets?
25. Which singer performed on the Eiffel Tower for the 2024 Olympic Opening ceremony?
26. The coaches of which women’s national football team recently received a ban because of a drone spying scandal?
27. Which nation has the second biggest team at the Paris Olympic Games behind the US?
28. Which US city was announced as host of the 2034 Winter Olympics?
29. Emily Bates will captain which AFL Women’s team in 2024?
30. Mitch Creek recently announced he would be leaving which NBL team?
Tess Madgen. (Basketball Australia)
Jessica Hull
Cody Simpson Cody
Weekend finals action kicks off
Finals action hit several football and basketball competitions at the weekend. Star Weeklyphotographer Ljubica Vrankovic shot some finals action and a couple of key matches in the lead up to finals.
Taylors Lakes and Westmeadows fly for the mark. 422890_01
Burnside Heights. 422916_33
Taylors Lakes’ Lachlan Rayner. 422890_09 Melton’s Chelsea Lapsley. 422913_01
Some supporters enjoying Coburg Districts and Sunbury Lions. 422897_03
Centrals are sticking to the process for success
Werribee Centrals have full confidence in their ability heading into the back part of the Western Football League women’s finals.
The Centurions have been one of the standout teams this season, taking their game further than last year.
Speaking before the weekend’s match, coach Jade De La Rue said they were finding themselves in every game whether they win or loss.
“We have been the sort of team that if we concede a couple of goals it is over,” she said. “Now this year we’ve worked on trying to maintain positivity throughout the game.
“We’re aware not everything is positive all the time but we’re trying to keep a positive mindset and put plans in place to make sure we’re taking things quarter by quarter.
De La Rue said for her as long as they are
putting in place what they want to, then that’s a win for them whether it reflects on the scoreboard.
That was the case in the Centurions upset loss to Yarraville Seddon a couple of weeks ago.
They were able to bounce back on Fright night against the Suns in a top of the table clash.
Neither team kicked a goal in the first quarter before the Centurions kicked two goals to one in the second quarter to lead by five points.
The Suns then took the lead in the third quarter before the Centurions kicked the only goal in the final quarter to win, 3.8 (26)-2.7 (19).
Meghann Basto, Julia Nash and Keely Spiteri were named their best.
The win moves the Centurions back to the top of the table. They sit a game clear of the other three sides in the top four.
De La Rue said its been a long journey to get to where they are.
“Five to six years ago the group was always
The Tigers sneak home
By Tara Murray
Werribee Districts pulled a rabbit out of a hat to come away with the win against Point Cook in the Western Football League division 1 on Saturday.
Last season’s grand final rematch was a battle between first and last on Saturday, but it meant little on the scoreboard.
For most of the game, it appeared to be that Point Cook would inflict the Tigers second loss in as many weeks. They led by three points at quarter time and then 17 points at half time. The margin was 20 points at the final break with the Tigers having kicked just two goals.
Even at five minutes to go, it still seemed the Bulldogs were destined for a win.
Two goals in a couple of minutes got the score back within a kick. It would come down to a kick after the siren.
Sean Gregory, who is more used to stopping goals than kicking them, kicked truly to give the Tigers a 6.17 (53)-7.5 (47) win.
Tigers coach Chris Gilham said they got out
of jail.
“We’ve had a couple of kicks after the siren for draws go against us, so it was nice to be on the other end,” he said.
“Sean Gregory is normally a defender but we threw him forward. He took a mark in the goal square.
“It was basically an unmissable shot. It was a great escape for sure.”
Gilham said they didn’t play great football for most of the day. He gave credit to Point Cook,whichhadagameplanthattestedthem.
He said they just threw some magnets around and took some risks to get back into the game.
“It was a lot of chip mark uncontested game style,”hesaid.“Wehadkicked2.17atonestage and we couldn’t tick it over at one stage.
We then kicked three goals in three minus. Wewereacoupleofsecondsawayfromlosing.”
It was all single goal kickers for the Tigers, while Nick Buykx kicked two goals for the Bulldogs.
Harrison White and Jack Fletcher were named the Tigers best.
getting pumped,” she said. “It’s been long journey and none of us in that core group take it for granted the position that we are in.”
De La Rue said it would be good to lock up a top two spot, but that wasn’t the be all and end all in the last couple of weeks.
She said they just want to focus on staying on track.
“The most important thing is still having fun,” she said. “If you lose having fun, you lose sight of what you are playing for and you question if you are doing the right thing.
“The main reason we play for is that love of the game.
“Top two would be good and it would make it a little easier but if we have to grind it out, we grind it out.”
Tara Murray
Wyndham finals ready
Wyndham’s two Big V championship teams fine tuned things in the lead up to big final series.
Both teams entered the final round with top spot locked up.
In the men’s championship, Wyndham was in action against the Pakenham Warriors.
Wyndham flew out of the blocks and led by nine points at quarter time before extending the margin to 19 points at half time.
The Warriors were finally able to find some momentum in the third quarter to reduce the margin to 11 points heading into the final quarter.
Wyndham steadied in the last quarter to come away with a 98-79.
Wyndham had just seven players available to the match and they all played at least 19 minutes for the game.
Myles Thomas top scored with 29 points.
The women’s side faced two teams desperate for final round wins.
Women’s beat the Sherbrooke Suns on Saturday night, 95-61.
It was a dominant performance by Wyndham which won each quarter on the way to the big win.
Five players scored double figures including four of the five starters.
Wyndham then backed it up on Sunday, falling short to the Pakenham Warriors.
The Warriors needed to win to secure a finals spot.
After an even first quarter, the Warriors won the next three quarters to claim a 98-81 win.
For the Tigers the win is a highlight in a tough month that has been filled with a lot of unavailability.
After losing just one game last season, this season they’ve had a loss and two draws in recent weeks.
“It’s so even from first to last,” he said. “It’s an even year and we have to get better. We’ve been off the last few weeks that is for sure.
“It’s a reminder to everyone and our boys you don’t play well you get beat. We have a few weeks to get better before finals.”
The Tigers remain on top of the ladder, two points clear of Caroline Springs.
This Saturday they face Parkside.
Gilham said they would have to be at their best to beat them.
In other matches, Hoppers Crossing proved no match for Altona.
The Vikings won 14.17 (101)-9.8 (62).
Point Cook Centrals also had a tough day, losing to Parkside, 13.12 (90)-4.6 (30).
In division 2, Wyndhamvale got the points againsttheSuns,whileTarneitlosttoSunshine Heights.
Julie Brosseau top scored with 17 points.
Both Wyndham teams have the first week of finals off for finishing with the minor premiership.
Myles Thomas. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 403557_17
Tayah McFarlane. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 421569_13
Josh Cochrane. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 410695_14
United lock in youngest signing
Besian Kutleshi has become the youngest player to sign a professional contract at Western United after inking a three-year scholarship contract with the A-League men’s club.
The 15-year-old will arrive at Ironbark Fields after playing an important role in the Joeys’ recent success at the ASEAN under-16 boys championships, featuring in every match and converting in the penalty shootout in the final.
Born and bred in the west, Kutleshi played his junior football at North Sunshine Eagles before moving to Melbourne City in the 2022 season.
It was there that Kutleshi has continued to develop, incredibly making his senior Victorian Premier League 1 debut at 14 in February this year.
With all the hallmarks of a modern-day centre-back, Kutleshi possesses physical
attributes and athleticism well beyond his years as well as superb ball-playing ability, whether that be feeding progressive passes for his teammates or driving out from the back himself.
Kutleshi joins his brother Rinor at Western United, who plays in the under-14’s side, and he said he is eager to make an impact after committing his future to his hometown club.
“It’s crazy, a bit unreal. I’ve been growing up my whole life just wanting to sign a professional contract, so it’s quite an unreal experience and a dream come true,” he said.
“Being able to look into the future and see that Western United has a big focus on player development was something that drew me here. It’s exciting and it will ultimately benefit both the players and the club.”
“Representing a club from the west, where I’ve grown up and lived my whole life – it’s unreal that I’ve signed.”
United football general manager Mal Impiombato hailed Kutleshi as an incredibly exciting signing for the future.
“Besian is without doubt one of the country’s most talented young players and we are ecstatic to be able to bring him to Western United on a three-year contract,” he said.
“Especially being from the west, Besian fits our recruitment and development strategy perfectly and has the personal and footballing qualities to reach his enormous potential.
“I know our green and black family will be rubbing their hands together at the thought of seeing Besian in action. We can’t for them to see him develop and represent the club.”
Kutleshi arrived straight from Indonesia and has joined pre-season training with John Aloisi’s first-team squad while also being registered to play VPL and NPL matches.
Three teams in top comp
The Western Football League men’s competition will remain a two division competition for the next two seasons, but there will be 12 teams in the top tier.
On Wednesday, the league confirmed the structure for the competition for the next two years.
Albion, Sunshine and Newport will play in division 1 next season to increase the division from nine teams to 12.
The three teams are currently sitting in three of the first four places in division 2. Wyndhamvale was considered for promotion but were deemed to not be in an equal position as to the other three clubs. Division 2 would also be 12 teams, with Glen Olden, which didn’t field a senior side this season, included.
There will be no relegation for the 2025 season along with no automatic promotion of the division 2 premiers, with this to return the following year.
Sports shorts
VAFA
Westbourne made it two in a row in the Victorian Amateur Football Association premier B women’s competition. The Grammarians opened up a lead in the first quarter and were really strong defensively as they kept the Aqulinas goal less for the first three quarters in the 4.12 (36)-1.0 (6) win. Hannah McMahon kicked two goals for the Grammarians with Kiara Henry named their best. Westbourne sits sixth on the ladder. It faces Williamstown CYMS in the final round.
Coates Talent League
The Western Jets had a tough day against the Eastern Ranges in the Coates Talent League boys competition on Saturday. The Ranges were able to build on an early lead and come away with an 18.14 (122)-10.8 (68). Ayden McCarroll kicked four goals for the Jets and was named their best. Finnegan Davis and Jack Gerardi were the other standouts for the Jets. The Jets sit in 10th spot with five wins for the season. The Jets face the Murray Bushrangers on Sunday in the second last round.
The Western Jets proved no match for the Eastern Ranges in the Coates Talent League girls competition on Saturday. The Ranges jumped the Jets early on and were able to extend the lead throughout on the way to an 18.14 (122)-3.4 (22) win. Alexandra McBride-Loane and Sierra Grieves were named the Jets best. The Jets sit in 14th spot. The Jets host the GWV Rebels in the second last round on Saturday.
“The Western Football Netball League board has ratified the following senior men’s football competition structure for the 2025 and 2026 season,” it said. “Three division 2 clubs will be promoted to division 1 to make that a twelve-team competition in 2025 and 2026.
“For the league to return to a three division competition structure, we will need to have twenty-six viable senior men’s football clubs competing with both a seniors and reserves in divisional football.
“This will include the ideal model for our division 1 premier competition to be comprised of ten (10) teams and a division 2 and division 3 with sixteen senior clubs divided between both.”
The document said the league hosted a competition structure forum on July 22 to explore the best possible model for 2025.
It said there was a consensus from clubs to retain a modified two division competition
In an email from league chief executive David Jennings to clubs, which has been seen by Star Weekly, the league outlined its plans going forward.
structure for 2025 to ensure stability, an even number of teams division 1 competition and restore a competitive balance for teams in division 2.
“There is a genuine need for certainty aroundthecompetitionstructurebeyond2025 and clarity for clubs in future considerations when and if we return to three divisions,” it said.
“Competitive balance will need to be addressed when fixturing both the division 1 and division 2 competitions.
“It is worth noting that it may not solve all the challenges of the clubs competing in division 2 that are struggling to generate momentum. However, having a division 3 competition would also not solve some of these issues.
“The league will employ a number of fixture equalisation methods to facilitate a competitive draw for all teams across both divisions.”
Tara Murray
Wyndham was one of the rare teams in action on the FV state league catch up round on Saturday. After its state league 5 west match with Gisborne was postponed the week before, the two teams were in action on Saturday with Gisborne winning 4-2.
Albion and Sunshine will be in division 1 next season. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 418791_01
Besian Kutleshi (Western United)
Winning streak over for Tigers
By Tara Murray
An unlike Werribee performance proved costly on Saturday, as the Tigers’ winning streak ended at 11 in the Victorian Football League.
TheTigerswereathomeonSaturdayagainst Southport, the second time the two teams had met.
The first time, Werribee snuck home in a match they probably shouldn’t have won. This time Southport wasn’t going to give up the four points.
A goal in the 30th minute to former Tiger Wylie Buzza sealed the 8.13 (61)-8.7 (55) win for Southport.
Tigers coach Jimmy Allan said it was a pretty disappointing performance.
“It was a little different from recent weeks,” he said. “It was very frustrating.
“We didn’t play well at all and we still have chances to still win the game. We lost by six points to a good side.
“We’re a bit flat, but we only lost by a goal and being up to it until the end with some areas to get better in.
“We are confident we are hard to beat when we play our best football.”
Allan said a number of areas that they are normally good at they let themselves down. He said he wasn’t sure what happened but said having a few key personnel out didn’t help.
The coach said a loss at this time of year wasn’t the worst thing.
“There’s a couple of things to work on out of the game,” he said . “We were off in the first half and not defending well.
“We didn’t use the ball well and we made
fundamental skill errors. They beat us at the stoppage.
“They scored two goals from centre clearances in the last quarter, that kills you in
low scoring games.”
Aidan Johnson kicked three goals for the Tigers, while Hudson Garoni kicked two.
Dom Brew had 34 disposals in the middle
of the ground, while Louis Pinnuck and Riley Bice had 21 each.
Allan said they didn’t have many winners on the day.
“There were three clear winners,” he said. “There were some others that didn’t play too badly.
“Stefan Radovanovic and Sam Azzi down back did some key jobs,” he said.
“Aidan Johnson up forward gave us a target.”
Allan said they had a couple of players pull up sore after the game, who would be assessed on Monday night.
He said there’s a number of players who would hopefully return in the next few weeks.
“Nathan Cooper won’t be back until the firstfinal,”hesaid. “Acouplearesettobeback for the next game.
Nick Coughlan, Jack Riding, Jake Smith and Jalen Pavalids should all be back.
“That’s three of our best seven defenders in our best side on paper. Our backline though still held up well on the weekend.”
The Tigers remain in top spot, six points clear of Footscray.
They have a bye this week. A win in the final round, the Tigers will finish top If they lose, they should still have a good enough percentage to finish second at the lowest. Allan said the bye had come at a good time to freshen a few players up before finals.
“We’ll then look to come back and go for it,” he said.
“We just want to win and we don’t want to leave it to chance. We play Box Hill in a couple of weeks and if we finish on top its reward for the season so far.”
