Star Weekly - Hobsons Bay Maribyrnong - 28th August 2024
50 years of community
Five decades of education, community and support will be celebrated at a special morning tea to mark the 50th anniversary of the Williamstown Community and Education Centre. The event will also feature a short documentary created to mark the milestone.
WCEC chief executive Mark Brophy said the documentary would act as a “time capsule” for the centre. He said it would feature stories and anecdotes from staff and participants who have engaged with the centre over the past 50 years. The morning tea will be free and open for everyone in the community to attend.
Dr Brophy said the centre has expanded over the past 50 years and now supported three neighbourhood houses as well as offering a myriad of classes, workshops and support programs, most recently extending into food relief. The 50th anniversary celebration is on September 4, from 11am, at Joan Kirner House.
Bowling pokies set to go
By Laura Michell
Electronic gaming machines (EGMs) removed from Yarraville Footscray Bowling Club will be added to nearby venues where the gambling lossesare“significantlygreater”,Maribyrnong’s deputy mayor has warned.
Councillor Michael Clarke’s warning came as council adopted a new lease agreement for the club’s Francis Street premises, which requires the club to remove gambling from its facility by the end of 2032.
The requirement is in line with council’s gambling harm reduction policy which restricts the presence of gaming machines on council-owned land.
The club currently has an EGM entitlement
of 29 machines. According to the Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission, $1.9 million was lost on the venue’s EGMs last financial year – the lowest in Maribyrnong.
The municipality has an EGM entitlement of 471 machine, all of which are currently allocated to the city’s nine gaming venues.
Cr Clarke said it was “wonderful” that the club was transitioning out of gaming, but was concerned about the impact the move would have on the wider municipality.
“Once they divest themselves of these machines, they won’t disappear, they will in fact go to another site in the municipality,” he said.
“Thosemachineswillgotofacilities…where the losses are significantly greater.
“It is a fantastic facility that will hopefully will be able to identify a funding stream going forward that will ensure its sustainability.”
Cr Bernadette Thomas said council was clear about its intent to remove gambling harm from the community and the Yarraville Footscray Bowling Club was a venue where council could make a impact as it was on council land.
“It is pleasing that the club has worked with council. I want to thank the club for coming to the party,” she said.
“It will be interesting to see what they come up with [as part of the transition plan].
“The club does a really great job of providing a space to the community.”
The move away from gaming machines has
the support of the club.
Inasubmissiontocouncil,theclubsaidithas a robust gambling harm minimisation plan. We are all aware of some of the problems that exist in society today, such as harm from gambling … and of the onus on us to be aware of the role that we must play in responsible gambling through harm minimisation,” the submission stated.
“We are however cognisant of the fact that the [council] do not want gambling in their facilities, so, to comply with these guidelines our bowls club will work with nominated [council] representatives to formulate a plan to transition away from having gaming machines in our current council owned facility, against a schedule that is acceptable to both parties.”
WCEC’s Dr Mark Brophy, Tracey Osullivan, Amarjeet Brar, Tahlia Kotiau, Anthimos Papadopoulos, Samira Antoun and Lynne Hewet. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 422430_01
Anthony has donating in the can
By Gerald Lynch
Anthony Lipec, a 42-year-old resident of St Albans, has turned his passion for recycling into a remarkable community initiative known as Anthony’s Cans.
Despite living with an intellectual disability, Anthony has been running this initiative for almost a year, demonstrating that determination and a positive outlook can overcome any challenge.
Anthony started Anthony’s Cans in November 2023, driven by his love for the environment and the desire to make a meaningful contribution to his community.
His recycling efforts go beyond just collecting cans and bottles; they embody his values of sustainability, community engagement, and giving back.
Through Anthony’s Cans, he offers a bottle and can collection service to residents in the north-west region of Melbourne, with the help of his dedicated support worker.
The process is simple but impactful.
Anthony provides his clients with a bin or container to collect their recyclable cans and bottles.
Every week, fortnight, or month, he and his support worker visit these clients to empty the bins and take the recyclables to the local recycling depot.
Each can and bottle collected earns Anthony 10 cents, which he uses to support himself while donating a portion to a charity of his choice each month.
His chosen charities include Second Chance Animal Rescue, Foodbank, and Beyond Blue, reflecting his deep commitment
to helping both people and animals in need.
For Anthony, recycling is more than just a task; it’s an opportunity to connect with his community, meet new people, and stay active.
His hobbies, including lawn bowls, pool, checkers, and tenpin bowling, showcase his love for staying engaged and active.
Anthony’s enthusiasm for recycling and his dedicationtohiscommunitymakehimalocal hero. His story is a testament to how a simple idea, fueled by passion and commitment, can bring about positive change.
If you’re interested in joining Anthony in his mission to recycle and support worthy causes, you can reach out to him via SMS at 0437 339 496 for more information.
“Together, we can make a difference, one can at a time,” he said.
Share your stories of life in Brooklyn
Brooklyn residents are invited to share their stories to potentially be turned into an innovative digital project.
‘Meet Your Stories Brooklyn’ includes a series of creative workshops using Deakin Motion Lab technology and working with local artists Geoffrey Ricardo and Heidi Weatherald.
The workshops are open to Brooklyn residents and people with a connection to the area. Participants will learn more about the
project’s intentions and how to participate, have a chance to meet neighbours and will learn more about augmented reality and how it can be used publicly.
Hobsons Bay mayor Matt Tyler encouraged past and present Brooklyn residents to share their stories.
“This is a unique opportunity for residents or past residents of Brooklyn to share what the area means to them, and to be part of a fantastic local community project,” he said.
“I can’t wait to see the stories that are told
about Brooklyn and its people through this project.”
‘Meet Your Stories Brooklyn’ is an initiative of Hobsons Bay council’s Better Places Brooklyn and Altona North program and Creative City Hobsons Bay in partnership with Deakin University.
The next workshop will be on Saturday, August 31, from 1-3pm, at Brooklyn CommunityHall,35NolanAvenue,Brooklyn.
Details: hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/ brooklynstories
Put a message in a bottle
Primary school students can lend their voice to an interactive message in a bottle installation at Scienceworks until September 20.
The installation is being created to mark the first anniversary of the launch of Victoria’s container deposit scheme (CDS) and to showcase the importance of recycling.
It will be on display at Scienceworks from November 1 until January 27.
Primary school students are being encouraged to share a message about why recycling is important. Selected submissions will be included in the installation as a message in a bottle, with visitors to Scienceworks able to read students’ responses as part of the display.
The message in a bottle installation will showcase the recycling process of PET plastic bottles and will be made from recyclable materials that will either be processed into new products, or repurposed at the end of the exhibition.
VicReturn chief executive Jim Round said the CDS is proud to be launching this installation to raise awareness and encourage recycling in the state.
“We’ve already seen kids get excited about returning their eligible drink containers – from watching the containers go into the reverse vending machines and onto conveyor belts at depots, to getting pocket money they can put towards something they would like to buy,” he said.
“Now we’re focusing on ensuring kids and families understand the value of a circular economy and recycling.”
More than 750 million containers have been returned across the state since the CDS launched on November 1, 2023.
Funding boost for festival and activation season in Maribyrnong
Maribyrnong council will invest $125,000 to support a dynamic mix of festivals and activations for the 2024-25 event season.
The allocation of funds was endorsed by council at its August 20 meeting as part of the Place-based Initiatives (Annual) Grants Program 2024-25.
Councilsaidthefundingwillsupportevents that creatively activate public spaces and local neighbourhoods,whilestrengtheningprecinct and neighbourhood identity and providing opportunity for inclusive local participation.
Ten festivals and activations will receive funding, including Footscray themed walking tours, West Footscray Festival of Colours, Footscray West Writers Fest, and Bathukamma Floral Festival.
The new festival season begins next month with the Ethiopian New Year’s Festival, and concludes with two film festivals next May –the Setting Sun International Film Festival and TILDE trans and gender diverse film festival.
In addition to the festivals supported
through this program, council will also be hosting a range of partnered festivals, including ‘Fringe Westside’ as part of the Melbourne Fringe Festival, ‘Jazz Westside’ as part of the Melbourne International Jazz Festival, and ’Eat Drink Westside’ as part of the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival, among others.
Council’s signature events will also add some variety this December, with a festive season program and the spectacular New Years’ Eve Fireworks event in Footscray Park.
Mayor Cuc Lam, said the funding will activate different precincts across the municipality.
“We have a very special community, and these events reflect the diversity of culture and creativity that can be found within Maribyrnong,” she said.
“Festivals play a unique role in bringing our community together to celebrate our diversity and uniqueness. It is a pleasure to be able to support these community-driven initiatives.“
Details: www.festivalcity.com.au
Artists Geoffrey Ricardo and Heidi Weatherald are running a series of workshops to uncover stories of Brooklyn. (Damjan Janevski) 422482_06
Anthony at St Albans Library, cleaning up the community and fundraising. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 426301_01
Pier Street to close permanently
Altona’s Pier Street will become a pedestrian-only mall for outdoor dining and entertainment under a Hobsons Bay council proposal to permanently close part of the shopping strip to traffic.
Concept designs for what the area could look like have been developed and council is asking community is to have its say on what it wants to see as part of the feature site between Queen Street and Blyth Street.
Pier Street has been closed between Queen and Blyth streets since the pandemic, when it was used to allow more outdoor dining.
As reported by StarWeekly , in late 2023, council surveyed traders, residents and the broader community about the future of outdoor dining in the municipality. Almost three quarters of respondents said they were ‘very supportive’ of permanently closing the Pier Street feature site area.
Council used the feedback to create concept designs, which include examples of what could form part of the feature site, including tree plantings, children’s activities and public artworks.
Theconceptdesignsalsoproposeextending
footpaths between Blyth Street and Railway Street South, bringing the road, parallel car parking spots and the footpath with outdoor dining parklets to the same level.
The concept designs were endorsed by councillors during council’s August 13 meeting.
To enable the feature site, the road would need to be permanently closed.
As part of this process, council is also seeking community submissions about this permanent closure.
Mayor Matt Tyler said the feedback
Elzette Bester with her ’home time’ piece. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 426630_01
Last chance to see their westside
There are only a few days left to enjoy the best art in the area, before the Show your Westside exhibition closes on August 30.
Ardeer resident Elzette Bester has proudly displayed her piece, ‘Home time’, which she said displays a moment in time where she would go home after playing in the park in Matthews Reserve.
She is a local artist, currently working on a book with local author Hazel Lekkas about growing up in Sunshine.
ElzettemovedfromSouthAfricatoAustralia
in 2002, and came into the Brimbank area in 2010.
Her piece includes the birds ’going home’ as well as the sun sets over the park and the Sunshine Silos.
“The area was the one constant for me when I was living in a couple of different houses,” she said. “We’d go there, meet friends, and just go for a walk, it’s a big beautiful area and you sort of feel like you’re in country Victoria.
“Over the years it’s been my spot to go and just look at the sunset, and it reminded me of
the sun coming up in South Africa.”
The exhibition was organised by artist Sally Walshe also known as Lady Mohawk, who said the lack of a community art space sparked the idea for the exhibition.
“I returned this year to run the exhibition because the community has repeatedly asked me to due to the success of last year,” she said.
The exhibition will be open until Friday, August 30, and is held at 138 Nicholson Street in Footscray.
Gerald Lynch
showed their was support for the permanent closure of this section of Pier Street to enable it to become a thriving outdoor dining and entertainment spot.
“There are some great options about what the feature site can become, so this is an opportunity for the community to help shape the next stage of the design process,” he said.
The concept designs can be viewed on council’s website, with feedback accepted until Friday, September 13.
Details: participate.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au
prize entries now open
Young people of Melbourne’s west are encouraged to put their creative skills to the test in the Woods Street Youth Art Prize.
The biennial prize and exhibition showcase artwork by people aged 14 to 25 who live, work, study or have a connection with the western suburbs.
Entries are accepted across all artistic media, including drawings, paintings, prints, photography, sculpture, film, performance art, mixed media and more.
Selected artworks will be exhibited at Woods Street Arts Space in Laverton in November.
Prizes are on offer across a number of categories and will be presented at the opening night event on Friday, November 15. Prizes on offer this year are:
Hobsons Bay mayor Matt Tyler said the art prize is a great opportunity for youngpeopletoshowcasetheirtalents and gain experience in exhibiting their work.
“This exhibition has become a much-loved part of our local creative scene. It celebrates the special place Woods Street Arts Space holds in our community, and the creativity and spirit of the young people so evident in the arts,” he said.
Submissions are open until 3pm, Thursday August 29.
Details: hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/ youthartprize
Road, rail closures for tunnels
Inner west commuters will face transport disruptions and road closures during spring as work ramps up on on The West Gate Tunnel Project and the Metro Tunnel.
The M80 Ring Road Altona-bound to the West Gate Freeway citybound will be closed for two-and-a-half weeks in September as crews work to transform the M80 Ring Road interchange to make way for four new lanes on the West Gate Freeway.
The closure will be in place from Friday, September 6 until Monday, September 23 to
enable workers to resurface, strengthen and widen the interchange ramp.
The West Gate Freeway Williamstown Road inbound exit ramp will be closed from early Octobertomid-Novembertoinstallawalking and cycling bridge over the top of the ramp.
The works are part of the West Gate Tunnel Project which will widen the freeway to 12 lanes.
The state government said the project will improve traffic flow in the west and increase capacity once 21-kilometres of new road deck
are complete.
Sunburytrainlineuserswillfacedisruptions in October and November as buses replace trains for some sections of the line.
The government said the rail replacement service will enable the weekend closure of the line as testing continues on the Metro Tunnel.
A section of Footscray Road will be closed from Tuesday, October 1 until Sunday, October 20, as part of works to build a 2.5-kilometre cycling superhighway.
Transport Infrastructure Minister Danny
Market rejuvenates Little Africa
A monthly African night market during summer and a pilot program transforming underutilised commercial properties in the Footscray CBD into creative spaces are among the projects Maribyrnong council hopes will help continue its rejuvenation of the Little Africa Precinct.
Council and the state government have contributed funding to improve the Footscray precinct, with key improvements including the installation of new lighting infrastructure, which council said has improved the perception of safety in the area.
As part of the renewal project, council has also supported ongoing safe space
activations, including community festivals, events, and significant cultural receptions, with 10 different festival events and shopfront activations along Nicholson and Paisley streets.
Council said one of the standout successes of the Little Africa Precinct renewal project is thetransformationoftheMetroWestbuilding into a pop-up gallery, Show Us Your Westside, which opened to the public in early August. The gallery’s opening event was attended by 500 people.
Council said the new lights will pave the way for a monthly night market and creative spaces pilot, which it hopes will draw visitors
to the area.
Mayor Cuc Lam visited the precinct last week with Footscray MP Katie Hall to celebrate its rejuvenation.
“The Little Africa Precinct Renewal project is a testament to the power of collaboration between the state government, council, and the local community. Together, we have created a safer, more vibrant space that celebrates Footscray’s rich cultural diversity,” she said.
“We are hopeful the revitalisation of this area of the Footscray CBD will encourage more visitors to enjoy outdoor dining and retail shopping further invigorating this important cultural space.”
Pearsonsaidtheworkswerenecessarybecause the government’s road and rail projects were nearing completion.
“This important work will cut congestion and deliver safer connections across our city.”
Public and Active Transport Gabrielle Williams Minister thanked the community for its patience during the works.
“These essential improvements that will deliver a safer, faster, and more connected transport network for all Victorians,” she said.
An Altona Meadows man’s usual Sunday routine took an unexpected turn when a gut feeling prompted him to check his lottery ticket, revealing a $690,000 prize in the weekend’s TattsLotto draw.
The victorious Victorian held one of the seven division one winning entries in TattsLotto draw 4495, drawn Saturday, August 17, and pocketed a total division one prize of $697,041.32.
Amid the initial excitement, the jubilant winner admitted the shock had nearly caused him to have a medical emergency.
“I’m more calm today!” he said when speaking to an official from The Lott.
“It’safunnystorybecauseInormally check my ticket when I go to the outlet to buy my next ticket, but when I got up Sunday morning, my gut told me to check it that day. Well, I tell you, I nearly had a heart attack! I was in tears, and I needed plenty of tissues.
“I’ve had a lot of setbacks with health and all sorts of things, so I just thought, ‘Wow!’.
“My son said it’s time to get a new phone now I can afford one. My current phone is almost as old as a rotary dial telephone.”
When asked how he planned to celebrate, the winning man shared he had already started enjoying himself.
“I’m at a restaurant having lunch right now actually,” he said.
“It’sbeenabeautifuldayofcelebration surrounded by family. I got them around straight away when I found out the good news.
“They’re very happy for me and have been helping me all day.”
The winning entry was purchased from Central Lotto, Shop 14, Central Square Shopping Centre, 1 Central Avenue, Altona Meadows.
Have your say on the future of play spaces in Maribyrnong
Maribyrnong council is in the process of developing a new play strategy, which aims to improve the quality and safety of play for local children.
The new play strategy will guide the planning, future provision and improvement of play in Maribyrnong, council said.
This includes playgrounds, skate parks, half basketball/netball courts, street play, and outdoor fitness equipment.
Mayor Cuc Lam said the strategy would help support learning and development of the municipality’s youngest residents.
“We know play is important in childhood development. It helps children, young people
and adults to be active and healthy, to connect with others, learn new skills, be creative, problem solve and have fun,” she said.
There are currently 72 Council-owned play spaces in our municipality but play occurs well beyond those spaces. Once developed, the new Strategy will help Council allocate funding over the next 10 years to upgrade or develop these existing play spaces and consider how play can be integrated into everyday activities.
“We want to find out what you like about play in Maribyrnong, what suggestions you have, or what ideas you have to make them better. Nobody knows what makes a great
place to play better than you, so we want to hear what you love best,” Cr Lam said.
Council said community feedback, along with feedback on the Passport to Play Resource, a review of existing spaces, and an understanding of trends in play, will help inform the development of a draft play strategy in 2025.
Feedback can be submitted via council’s websiteuntilmidnight,Sunday,September15.
A drop-in session will be held at Aeroplane Park, 107 Chruchill Avenue, Braybrook, from 2pm-4pm, on Sunday, September 1.
Details:yourcityyourvoice.com.au/play Lara Prust
Maribyrnong mayor Cuc Lam (right) visited the Littler Africa Precinct last week to celebrate its rejuvenation. (Supplied)
Resilience powers ride
By Afraa Kori
Cancer survivor Ernest Vladica, from Yarraville, is set to participate in the Great Vic Bike Ride from November 23 to December 1.
Mr Vladica experienced four bouts of cancer, including intensive chemotherapy, radiotherapy and stem cell transplant.
Pedalling through pain, treatment and recovery, is a testament to his resilience.
“At Peter Mac they had an exercise bike and said exercise would help me with my rate of recovery. My bone marrow transplant was successful in record time,“ Mr Vladica said, “Physical fitness was key to coping with the cancer treatment and rate of recovery post treatment. Keeping fit is also important in copingwithpotentialre-emergenceandmental health and resilience.”
The Great Vic Bike Ride has been a great motivator for Mr Vladica to rebuild and get fit again.
“It does not need a lot of pre-training and I have made a great recovery from my cancer,” he said.
“Afterencouragementbyacyclingenthusiast friend to ride the 210km Round the Bay in a Day in 2003, I decided to try the 600 km in nine days Great Vic bike ride with my almost 11-year-old son and other friends. We enjoyed thechallengeandexperienceanddecidedtodo it again.”
Additionally, he has ridden at least eight Great Vic Bike Rides and completed four Around The Bay rides.
The most challenging part is pedalling up hills as he has lost some lung function due to chemo.
“But slowly and patiently it does not. No shame in having short rest stops and soaking up the surroundings. Someday I may switch to an e-bike,” he said.
Mr Vladica realised it’s more rewarding and inspiring, sharing the Great Vic Bike Ride with family.
“MostoftheGreatVicBikeRidesIhavedone have been with some or all of our children. Our son was 11 and our middle daughter was nine for their first independent Great Vic rides.
“Comingridewillbewithmywife,youngest daughter,somefriendsandourneighbourwith their children on their first Great Vic.”
The Great Vic Bike Ride is also a tradition for thousands of riders from all walks of life, varying ages, cycling abilities, shapes and sizes.
Riders will embark on a thrilling nine- day and 501 kilometres journey, through Wodonga to Healesville.
“I enjoy the scenic routes, camping, exercise
and the sense of achievement at the finish plus interacting with the community of thousands of riders from diverse places in Victoria, interstate and internationally,“ Mr Vladica said.
“There have been many memorable moments: most to do with inclement weather which has not been often: heat, heavy rain, soaked campgrounds. That is when the riders learn to be resourceful, knowing it is a passing thing and focus on enjoying the nightly entertainment.”
“Riding with family does not require that we ride together at all times. We can ride at our own pace and catch up during rest stops. It is also important for the children to gain the confidence to ride at their own pace.”
Candidate guide launched
Candidates ready to stand in the upcoming Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay council elections are urged to use the Victorian Electoral Commission’s (VEC’s) newly refreshed candidate helper to get their applications ready for submission when nominations open on Monday, September 9.
Electoral commissioner Sven Bluemmel said there are several important steps candidates must complete before nominating.
“If you want to represent your local community, make sure to confirm your eligibility and complete the mandatory online candidate training through Local Government Victoria before lodging your nomination. This rule applies to all candidates, including those who are currently or have previously been a councillor,” Mr Bluemmel said.
Prospective candidates are also encouraged to attend the candidate information sessions being held in each electorate before the opening of nominations.
Prospective candidates must make an appointment to submit their nomination forms and pay the $250 fee in person during business hours. They must provide evidence that they have completed the online candidate training, as this is required by law and will be shown on each candidate’s nomination form.
NominationscloseatnoononTuesday, September 17. Late nominations will not be accepted. Details: vec.vic.gov.au/ council-candidate
Lifestyle Woodlea Open Day
Discover the very best that downsizing in Melbourne’s West has to offer at Lifestyle Woodlea.
Explore our display homes and tour the multi-million-dollar Clubhouse. There’ll also be a presentation at 12pm from My Pension Manager on Age Pension applications and dealing with Centrelink.
Scan the QR code to find out more. Call 1300 50 55 60 to RSVP or walk-in on the day!
Ernest Vladica and daughter Brigita. (Damjan Janevski) 422103_01
Heritage help
By Councillor Pamela Sutton-Legaud
The Williamstown Mechanics’ Institute and associated cottage are two of the oldest and most significant heritage buildings in Hobsons Bay and I have advocated for their restoration throughout my Council term.
After being out of action for several years, the time has come to restore them so they can again become great assets for our community.
Since 1860, the Mechanics Institute has been many things, including an education facility, a cinema, a theatre, a public hall, a library and a museum. In recent times it was home to the Williamstown Historical Society and the Williamstown Musical Theatre Company.
Council consulted the community on what it wants for the building, and we’re now seeking volunteers to join the Williamstown Mechanics’ Institute reference group to help shape the next phase of the masterplan.
This is a great opportunity for anyone interested in heritage, building the local economy, creating a space for the community, or someone who wants to help bring more people to Williamstown.
Another great initiative in Williamstown is the idea of establishing a community garden on the corner of Ann and Hanmer Streets, just near the Williamstown train station.
There’s a successful one in Altona allowing people to get their hands dirty, get great tips on sustainability and, of course, produce tasty fresh veggies.
You can express interest in the mechanics’ institute reference group and have your say on the community garden online at participate. hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au.
This week, I’m excited to chair the first meeting of the newly formed Hobsons Bay Women’s Advisory Group. The range of talent, experience and skills of those who nominated
to be part of this group was fantastic, and I can’t wait to get started.
I became involved with Council through the original women’s advisory group, and it gave me great exposure to how Council works, and I met some incredible people who I now call friends.
The new advisory group reinforces my commitmentaswomen’scharterchampionand will be a wonderful opportunity for women to help shape and inform ways we tackle critical issues as a community.
Finally, I recently participated in the groundbreakingceremonytocelebratethestart of early works for the Hobsons Bay Wetlands Centre in Altona Meadows.
I’m a huge supporter of the Wetlands Centre and am so pleased to see work starting on tree plantings and landscaping.
Weareadvocatingforfundingfromthestate and federal governments to help us complete our vision for this centre, which will be an incredible educational and environmental asset for our community. I can’t wait to see works continue to develop in future.
I was also pleased to recently open the new community centre at Dennis Reserve in Williamstown.It’safantasticfacilityandIlook forward to seeing the important role it plays in our community for many years to come.
Briefs
Lithium battery sparks fire
Two people jumped from the window of a burning first-floor unit in Footscray after a charging lithium battery on an e-bike sparked a fire. Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) was called to the Macpherson Street unit block about 6.50am on Tuesday. The fire took 30 firefighters 20 minutes to control, with the blaze contained to one unit in the block of six. FRV said the unit suffered extensive damage in the blaze. The two people who jumped from the window were injured in their fall and treated at the scene. Another resident was evacuated by firefighters.
Footscray ram raid
Police are investigating a ram raid in Footscray on Friday, August 23. It is believed three unknown offenders travelling in a black Mazda hatchback reversed the vehicle into a business on Barkly Street about 1.50am. Two of the thieves smashed glass cabinets and stole jewellery from inside the store before returning to the Mazda and fleeing the scene. Information to Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or crimestoppersvic.com.au
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Maribyrnong & Hobsons Bay Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly
MASSIVE SALE
Melodies in dark times
By Afraa Kori
Born into a family of music but raised in an era of chaos, Newport’s Craig Fraser didn’t know how else to help the world other than write songs.
Recently he released his most personal and themedalbum,LastNightonEarth,whichtells a story of greed, war, and corruption.
“I’ve really tried to go about presenting a story that fits one time frame, which is the last night on earth. So everything shares that common link of having a reflection on the end of the world, the problems of the world and possibly the end of the world. So everything is tied into that one subject,” Fraser said.
“What will be our legacy on the Last Night onEarth?,”heasked.“Surelytruthandlovestill have value.”
The world’s current state made it the perfect opportunity for Fraser to release his album and amplify his message.
“Watching the news and seeing the likes of co-operations in America and war, it’s not hard to write about that stuff because it’s so awful and real. Things like the Middle East, the US elections, Russia, China, this ability for people to deny the truth, this whole alternative truth, it just made me really mad.”
Thealbumputstheaudiencefrontandcentre of stories that have led to the Last Night on Earth and how various characters approach it.
There is no one musical style with songs ranging from, heart breaking ballads, to rock, nine-minute epics and even disco. It’s also enhanced with backing vocals of Cherie Morgan, Chris Webb and Neil Wise. Fraser aims to change the narrative by reviving the album-listening experience, crafting interconnected songs and proving people still pay for music.
“Iwantedtoonceagainreunitelistenerswith the idea of sitting back and taking in a whole album song by song,“ he said.
“I guess I’m of that era where you used to put on an album, a tape or a CD and listen to the whole thing. I think I missed that and I’m hopingalotofotherpeoplemissedthatjourney of losing themselves in an album. So that was a trigger for going to the whole album here, not just a single.”
“Hopefully for the broader Australian music industry, it encourages people to start listening or buying whole albums again, not just downloading a single. Community wise, we’ve been pretty aggressive on the fundraising part and so far we’ve raised about two and a half thousand dollars for charity. I was also trying
New white rhino at zoo
Werribee Open Range Zoo is celebrating the birth of a southern white rhino.
The 60-kilogram male calf was born in the earlyhoursofSunday,August18to15-year-old father Kifaru and 11-year-old mother Kipenzi following a 16-month pregnancy.
The calf’s birth is a major milestone for the zoo and breeding efforts for the species in Australasia.
Native to southern Africa, it is estimated as few as 10,080 southern white rhino remain in the wild.
Kipenzi’s gave birth to a calf in March 2023 that unfortunately died hours after its birth.
Despite being hand-reared, Kipenzi’s is forming a strong bond with her calf in her second chance at motherhood.
Werribee Open Range Zoo director Dr Mark Pilgrim said staff were thrilled to see the calf thrive.
“Kipenzi is taking extremely well to
motherhood and has been very gentle, attentive and calm. She also calls him back if he strays too far.”
Minister for Environment Steve Dimopoulos welcomed the news.
“We’re delighted to celebrate the birth of a southern white rhino calf at Werribee Open Range Zoo. I encourage families to take advantage of their free entry for kids this school holidays and learn more about the critical work being done to protect these treasured animals into the future,“ he said.
Southern white rhinos are classified as near threatened, facing threats such as poaching, habitat destruction and fragmentation as human populations and infrastructure grows.
The calf will be named in coming weeks through a voting competition for Zoos Victoria members and donors.
Details: https://www.zoo.org.au/werribee
to show that people love music and they are actually happy to pay for music, you just have to give them a platform.”
A portion of the sale price of each album has been going to a charity of the purchaser’s choice.
While he’s not in control of where people donate, Farser is pleased the album sales are going to a good cause.
The funds have been donated to Red Cross, Medecins Sans Frontieres, WWF, Red Nose, Cottage by the Sea, Beyond Blue, Cancer Council, Support Act UNHCR, Greenpeace, Headspace, Bears of Hope, Smith Family, Orange Sky, Foodbank, Bob Brown Foundation, MND, AQA Vic (Quadriplegia), Peter Mac and Epilepsy Foundation.
Pet surrenders trending up
Thirty-three animals were seized across Hobsons Bay and Maribyrnong last financial year, new data from RSPCA Victoria reveals.
According to the RSPCA, 2250 animals were seized of surrendered to the RSPCA in 2023-24 statewide. In Hobsons Bay, 24 animals were seized or surrendered, while nine were handed over in Maribyrnong.
The animal welfare organisation said cost-of-living pressures were driving up surrender rates as owners were finding they were no longer able to afford veterinary care or the costs of providing for their pets. Acting chief inspector Michelle Green said the inspectorate team was helping struggling pet owners more than ever before.
“It’s an increasingly challenging environment out there following the pressures of the pandemic, and the cost-of-living crisis is only compounding this,“ she said.
“The majority of the animal cruelty we seeisactuallyneglectasaresultofpeople’s circumstances changing beyond their control, such as hospitalisation, financial pressures, or sudden joblessness, while other animals suffered due to owners simply not understanding how to care for their pets adequately. When they can, our inspectors are offering help through emergency pet food to struggling householdsandothersupportsuchasthe provision of donated kennels or bedding for pets and providing preventative flea and worming treatments.”
Hobsons
Kipenzi and her calf. (supplied)
Craig Fraser is using music to spark a change. (Damjan Janevski) 425877_03
Changing lives through recycling
By Jaidyn Kennedy
TOMRA Cleanaway’s Victorian Container Deposit Scheme (CDS) has been making a difference in the lives of many in the north and west since its inception last November.
Alysha Constable from Melton started collecting bottles and cans with her son during covid as an activity and to teach him how to play his part in helping the environment.
When they began depositing them for refunds in November, her life changed for the better.
The ongoing cost of living crisis has made the already challenging task of being a single mother to a nine-year-old even trickier.
“It’s given me the opportunity to actually do some work and make some money in an unconventional way,” she said.
“Knowing that even though I’m on a pension and have a disability, I am still going to be able to make enough money for my son and I.”
Financial relief is far from the only benefit the CDS has provided Alysha, it has also helped her overcome tough timesandgainasenseofpurposethrough meeting others and immersing herself in nature.
Dealingwithsocialanxietyhasprovided a barrier to working in conventional workplaces for Alysha, so being able to choose her own hours, locations and workload has given her a sense of independence.
As a lifelong advocate for the environment, cleaning up her local area has become a mission of sorts for Alysha, who wants to leave theplanetingoodshapeforthelikesofherson.
“If we can reduce the amount of pressure that the next generation is going to feel that’s awesome,” she said.
However, the sheer amount of litter she sees
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means that there is still plenty of work to do.
“It’s just so sad to see people still doing it. I wantmysontolearnit’ssoimportantnottodo that,” she said.
Theabilitytoexercisewhiledoingsomething purposeful has been an added bonus.
“TOMRA, inadvertently I’d say, has actually givenmeallofthesenewthingsinmylifethatI just didn’t see coming – and it’s been fantastic.
“This actually working, it’s making a difference in people’s lives- and it’s definitely made a difference to my life.”
While unable to recall the exact amount she has recycled, Alysha estimates it has been at least her own body weight.
TOMRA Cleanaway surpassed its goal of installing 180 sites by August 2024 reaching 196, including 16 in the last two weeks.
Almost $30,000,000 has been refunded in Victoria. Residents of the West Zone can download the CDS Vic West Zone app to check on the live status of their local refund point, verify container eligibility, and manage and track container refunds.
Empowering independence through the Paralympic spirit
The Paralympic Games have long been a testament to the extraordinary capabilities of individuals with disabilities.
These athletes not only excel in their respective sports but also challenge societal perceptions of disability, proving that physical or intellectual limitations do not define one’s potential.
The Paralympics serve as a powerful reminder that with the right support, individuals with disabilities can lead full, independent, and productive lives, making invaluable contributions to society.
Speedy Care Health is inspired by the same spirit that drives Paralympians to greatness.
Its mission is to empower people with disabilities,providingthemwiththenecessary tools and support to live independently and achieve their personal goals.
By offering a range of NDIS services, including assistance with daily tasks, personal activities, community participation, and specialised support employment, Speedy Care Health is committed to enhancing the quality of life for NDIS participants.
Independence is more than just a concept—it is a fundamental human right. The Paralympics highlight how, with determination and support, individuals can overcome obstacles that many perceive as insurmountable.
Similarly, Speedy Care Health believes that with the right support, every individual has the power to shape their own destiny.
It strives to create opportunities that enable our clients to participate fully in their communities, pursue meaningful employment, and live life on their own terms.
The success of Paralympians on the global stage is a source of inspiration for many, but it is also a call to action for all of us. It challenges us to reconsider how we view disability and to
Speedy Care Health empowers clients to shape their own destiny. (Supplied)
recognise the potential in every individual.
Speedy Care Health is proud to be part of a movement that values independence, dignity, and the right of every person to determine their own
Alysha recycling at Woodgrove Shopping Centre, Melton West. Inset: ‘Can Mountain’ coined by Alysha’s son. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 424978
Mum ‘can’t go back’ to life of pain
By Laura Michell
Alice Davy has lived with chronic, life-limiting pain for most of her life.
The Eynesbury mum-of-two was diagnosed with endometriosis 12 years ago and in that time has had “countless” operations and organ removal procedures.
Three years ago following the birth of her second son, she was diagnosed with Multiple sclerosis (MS).
However like her battle with endometriosis, Alice’s journey to diagnosis wasn’t straight forward.
The new mum’s condition was initially written off as postpartum psychosis because her MS symptoms began five or six weeks after her son was born.
“The symptoms would start on the first day of my period,” Alice said. “In the end it turned out I had 100 symptoms of MS.
“I know it wasn’t mental health – I could recall everything that happened.”
Alice’ssymptomsincludedvertigo,footdrop, tremors, rapid eye movement, urinary issues, cognitive issues which prevented her from communicating clearly and sleep deprivation.
“The longest I went was three and half days without being able to sleep. I had a nine-year-old and a baby but it wasn’t them keeping me awake,” she said.
DoctorsalsosuggestedthatAlice’ssymptoms were the result of her overusing medicinal cannabis.
Alice began using medicinal cannabis about a year and half earlier to treat the chronic and debilitating endometriosis pain.
Eventually, she was diagnosed with MS.
Alice said life has been rough since her MS diagnosis, but she believes it would have been even worse if she wasn’t already taking medicinal cannabis.
The suggestion to try medicinal cannabis
Inquiry tackles stigma around menopause
More needs to be done to reduce the stigma aroundmenopause,asenateinquiryintoissues relating to menopause and perimenopause has heard.
The Senate Community Affairs References Committee is conducting the inquiry which is examining the economic consequences of menopause and perimenopause, their physical health impacts, the mental and emotional wellbeing of people experiencing menopause and perimenopause and the impact on caregiving responsibilities.
The inquiry is also considering medical professionals’ awareness of menopause and perimenopause symptoms and treatments and cultural and societal factors influencing perceptions and attitudes.
During an inquiry hearing in Melbourne, Women’s Health in the North sexual and reproductive health co-ordinator Tilly Mahoney said perimenopause and menopause are often not talked about within society, due in part to the pervasive stigma and taboo that surrounds reproductive health issues.
“Ongoing stigma can lead to isolation, ignorance, delays in seeking help for physical and mental health impacts, reduced workforce participation and discrimination,“ she said.
“Normalising menopause and emphasising the positive or neutral aspects of this life stage can combat that narrative of loss or decline, which is tied to the intersection of sexism and ageism.”
Ms Mahoney said that while there has been plenty of work done to explore the relationship between the experiences of menopause and workforce participation, there is little research on the impact of menopause on participation in arenas other than employment.
She said key contributors to good mental
health include social independence, feeling valued, physical activity, good nutrition and having faith and belief, adding that further understanding of whether these areas are impacted by menopausal symptoms could inform approaches to holistic, clinical and social support and the prevention of mental ill healthamongpeopleexperiencingmenopause.
“While physical symptoms may contribute in part to this mental ill health for women and gender-diverse people who experience menopause, we also need to consider the social determinants of mental ill health: social connectedness; freedom from discrimination and violence; and economic participation, which are all influenced by the broader context of gender inequality.
“Attributing mental ill health solely to the biology of the menopausal transition renders this social context irrelevant and risks further entrenchingtheviewsofwomen’sunsuitability for the workforce or lack of resilience due to ’biological needs’. Interventions focused on improving the mental health of persons experiencing perimenopause and menopause need to be coupled with investment in broader strategies to address gender inequality.”
The inquiry is expected to table its report to Parliament on September 17.
“Withinsixmonthsmylifestartedtochange.
“Iknownowthatmedicinalcannabisdoesn’t have the same effect as [cannabis did] when I was younger.”
Prior to taking medicinal cannabis, Alice was maxed out on opioids to manage her pain and antiemetics to subdue the nausea.
Her pain was so severe that she also had a spinal cord stimulator implanted in her spine. This required surgeons to cut her back open in two places and sow a TENS machine into her spine.
“I look back and think, ‘how did I not die with all the drugs I was on?’” Alice said.
“My life before, even though I worked two or three jobs to support my then only child, I was in severe pain all day.
“If I went out anywhere, I was in bed for three days. I was parenting from bed.
“I couldn’t plan in advance because I didn’t know when I would have [an endometriosis] flare up.”
Alice said she uses medicinal cannabis safely and feels less impaired on it than she did on opioids.
And while she still needs to take pharmaceuticals from time to time, she said medicinal cannabis has given her back her life. She boxes regularly and is training to complete a half marathon – something that would have been impossible to do before.
“Life is very different now.
“I do still have pain but not as much
came from a friend who was battling cancer.
Alice said that while she was aware of the drug’s pain-relief benefits, she was also skeptical about taking it.
“I smoked twice when I was younger and it was a horrible feeling … but I also knew how beneficial medicinal cannabis was. I was a bit skepticalbecauseIdidn’twanttofeellikethat,” she said.
“I can only imagine this is how life would have been for the last 15 years if my endo was treated the way it needed to be.
“I lost my entire reproductive system, had a bowel resection and lost part of my bladder.
“It is wild how this disease has affected my body.
“I can’t go back to my life before [medicinal cannabis]. I don’t have a choice.”
Star Weekly wants to hear from you about the health issues affecting women in Melbourne’s western and northern suburbs.
Our Women’s Health Matters survey will help inform our reporting during our 12-month women’s health campaign.
The confidential survey will take less than five minutes to complete and can be found by scanning the QR code.
Alice Davy is living with endometriosis and MS. She takes medicinal cannabis to manager her pain.
(Damjan Janevski) 424779_02
Fungi farmer looks to the future
Bulla Park in Diggers Rest is Australia’s largest organic mushroom farm and uses indoor vertical growing and artificial intelligence-informed farming practices. Oscar Parry spoke with Bulla Park chief executive Georgia Beattie about the future of indoor food production and the role of artificial intelligence at her farm.
Georgia Beattie said her decision to buy her farm was not just to learn how to grow food – but how to grow food indoors.
Bulla Park’s indoor mushroom facility is vertically-integrated, meaning mushrooms are grown in stacked layers.
The farm grows mushrooms for food and health purposes, with Coles recently providing it funding to produce an Australian-grown dehydrated range.
Georgia said that as indoor-grown produce is protected from outdoor climate-related threats, pests, and diseases, she believes supermarkets will become increasingly interested in partnering with indoor growers.
“If you have a look at the supermarkets, they’re wanting to make sure that they’ve always got a range of food on the shelves. So rather than have these dips if there’s a major floodintheareaoramajordroughtandthey’re unable to get products, I think that they’ll always have anywhere between 10–30 per cent of their [supply] base grown indoors – [where] they know that regardless of what’s happening, they’ll be able to draw down some products,” she said. “The benefits of [growing] indoors is that we’re able to … control the environment.”
Georgia said while indoor-grown produce is pricier in the short term, she believes that as the indoor growing industry expands, costs to consumers will reduce.
She said the vertical farming techniques used by Bulla Park, and historically used for growing mushrooms, could be applied to a broad range of produce.
“There’s no reason why we wouldn’t set up similar farms in each state, close to high consumption areas, so that we can efficiently get nutrients to people,” she said.
“What I want to do is … deeply understand howtofarminAustralia.Sothat’sfromanasset perspective … and how we most efficiently are able to get products to shelves, [and] there’s also a people and training perspective.”
Georgia said that over 60 per cent of her staff have an IT background, proving useful in understanding and contributing to the company’s data focused approach to farming.
“They have that systems mentality of scaling products, and the benefit of growing indoors is that in any one minute, I’ve got thousands of data points … we’ve been recording these in the grow rooms for the last 30 years, but I’ve … added another 2000 data points since I’ve taken over the farm,” she said.
Using Google Gemini, a generative artificial intelligence chatbot, Georgia said the company is constantly using this data to analyse and experiment with growing conditions and practices.
“Staff are thinking in this way – they’re not going to do something unless we are capturing that data point. And then we need to think about how we are capturing it – where does it go? Where is it stored? How do we [access] it later? So that systems thinking is … really important going forward,” she said.
“It’s critical that agriculture starts to have this data and intelligence so that they’re building up this muscle. Because it does take time, and you’ve really got to invest in cleaning up the data, but it is going to be critical.”
Georgia said that she hopes to investigate educationpipelinesandhowtoincreaseinterest in people with IT and robotic engineering skills in indoor food production.
“I think we’ve got a generation coming up that really cares about the environment, they want to align their careers with purpose.”
Victorian Farmers Federation vice president Danyel Cucinotta said artificial intelligence, alongwithothernewtechnologies,areproving to be important tools for food producers.
“Artificial intelligence, or any technology for
that matter, is vital for agriculture – whether that’s horticulture or any type of commodity … it’s all about becoming more efficient, more effective, about producing food through lower costs, lower emissions, better soil health … [it] will be part of the future and already is,” she said. “Drones are being used to identify soil health, moisture levels, rainfall, and [capture data] … traditional farming is across acres and acres of farmland … so [farmers are] using drones to capture a much larger look at their farms and the way that they’re working.”
M80 Ring Road to West Gate Freeway ramp closed
The M80 Ring Road ramp to the West Gate Freeway will be closed from 9pm Friday 6 September until 5am Monday 23 September
Detour via an early exit at Boundary Road, Little Boundary Road and Geelong Road. Allow extra travel time.
Georgia Beattie is passionate about vertical farming and uses data and AI to improve the farm’s processes. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 425097 Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne
To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.
ACROSS
1 Officiate (abbr) (3)
3 The study of knowledge (10)
10 Distribute (food) (5,2)
11 Web surfer (7)
12 The wedded state (9)
13 Luxurious (4)
15 Units of mass used for precious metals and gemstones (4,6)
17 Box (4)
19 Possesses (4)
20 Impersonation (10)
23 Just (4)
25 Colloquial (9)
27 Libyan capital (7)
28 Paraguayan monetary unit (7)
29 Ionised part of Earth’s atmosphere (10)
30 Headed (3)
DOWN
1 Picking up from where you left off (10)
2 Oldest child (9)
4 Process of producing a suggestive mental state (9)
5 Vestibule (5)
6 Gradually (6)
7 Mexican coins (5)
8 Story (4)
9 Evaluation (6)
14 Child of one’s child (10)
16 Forerunner, omen (9)
18 Colourful team shooting sport (9)
21 Relating to Samoa (6)
22 Soldiers (6)
24 Unearthly (5)
25 Hibernian (5)
26 Needlecase (4)
1 Dar es Salaam is the largest city in which country?
2 Which female artist released the album We Are Born in 2010?
3 Australia’s Great Dividing Range runs through which states?
4 What is the name of Sonic’s sidekick in the platform game SonictheHedgehog2?
5 What was invented by Scottish mechanic and inventor Alexander Bain?
6 Who is the main character in the children's book Where theWildThingsAre?
7 In the film Now and Then, Rosie O’Donnell (pictured) played Roberta Martin as an adult; who played the young Roberta?
8 Who wrote Invisible Man, published in 1952?
9 Which US soap opera centres around the fictional fashion house Forrester Creations?
10 What is the capital of Massachusetts?
Paralympians are ready for Paris
Four local athletes are competing for Australia in the Paralympic Games starting August 28. Tara Murray chatted with them about their journey and what they’re hoping to expect come the Games.
Jess Gallagher Cycling
The realisation that she’s competing in another Paralympics won’t settle in for Seddon’s Jess Gallagher until she gets to the velodrome in Paris.
The 38-year-old, who is the only Australian to have won a medal at the summer and winter Paralympics, has been selected as part of Australia’s cycling team for 2024.
“IthasbeeneightyearssinceIlastcompeted at the Paralympics and having attended five Paralympics in the eight years prior to that I’m proud to be back on the team having experienced some challenges throughout this Paralympic cycle,” she said.
Gallagherwonbronzeatthe2016Olympics in the tandem time trial B and was on track to compete in 2020 at Tokyo. She won a silver medal in 2019 at the world championships leading into the Games.
But it wasn’t to be for the Seddon resident.
“At the time my tandem pilot made the decision to retire and consequently the sports system was unable to find a replacement leaving me with no ability to participate in track cycling let alone aspire towards Paralympic selection,” she said.
“It was devastating and was the catalyst for deciding to try rowing. I had one simple goal of giving myself every opportunity of making the 2024 Paris Paralympics.
“Over those years of learning to row, I also found a tandem pilot as well. It led to the unique privilege of representing Australia concurrently in two sports across 2022 and 2023 culminating in qualifying the Women’s tandem (cycling) and PR3 4+
‘‘ It was devastating and was the catalyst for deciding to try rowing. I had one simple goal ... making the 2024 Paris Paralympics ’’ - Jess Gallagher
(rowing) for the Paralympics.”
Gallagher, who won .two golds at the 2022 Commonwealth Games, decided to focus on cycling for the Olympics.
It was a hard decision.
“Unfortunately, with direct schedule clashes at the Games I was forced to choose which sport to prioritise for the Paralympics with track cycling being my decision.
“I’m proud of the work I have put in to ensure the circumstances outside of my control would not dictate my ability to compete at another Paralympics. It will be special to see that work come to fruition in Paris.”
Gallagher said for her personally she has the expectation to deliver her personal best, but knows there’s an array of external variables that could impact it.
“I focus on what is in my control and ensuring I finish the race feeling that I have done everything within my control to deliver my personal best,” she said.
“So far, our preparation has been pretty smooth. There are always challenges and bumps along the way however I’m in great condition and looking forward to the opportunity to put my best performances out on the track.”
Gallagher is currently with the Australian Paralympic Cycling Team in France to the lead up to the Games.
The track cycling program begins day one of competition so there won’t be much time to rest once they get to Paris.
“For the women’s tandem our one kilometre time trial qualifying and final are Friday, August 30,” she said. “We’d love you to cheer us on.”
Nathan Pellissier Para-table tennis
Making the Paralympics the second time round is more exciting for Williamstown’s Nathan Pellissier.
Pellissier, who competed at the 2020 Tokyo Games, will represent Australia in the para-table tennis events.
The 28-year-old, who has cerebral palsy, saidhewasexcitedtogetanotheropportunity.
“I’m very fortunate,” he said. “It’s a bit more exciting this time with friends and family getting to come.
“I’m really excited for this one. Mum and dad and four friends are coming and it will be a bit of fun.
“It’s especially good my parents can come, they have supported me throughout my teenage years.”
Pellissier, who is ranked number one in Oceania in his category, felt that he had done enough to be selected.
But said it was still a relief when he heard that his name was called out.
He’s part of a 12 person Australian table tennis team, the largest team since 1968 and the second biggest ever for Australia.
Pellissier said it shows that Australia is becoming more competitive in the sport.
Pellissier said his focus was trying to get the best out of himself at the Games.
He won silver at the 2020 Games in the men’s team event with Lin Ma and Joel Coughlan.
“There’s so many experienced players heading over,” he said. “For myself, if I can
string a few results together, anything can happen .
“I want to keep my mind on the small task at hand at every point the bigger tasks will hopefully fall my way.”
Pellissier will compete in the singles, men’s team and mixed doubles events.
He and Ma won bronze at the world championships last year and take some good form into that event.
“It will be tough,” Pellissier said. “We don’t take in too high expectations, hopefully we can perform really well.”
Paris is a long way for Pellissier from a Paralympic talent day in 2011 when he first picked up a bat.
Table tennis wasn’t his first choice.
“I wanted to play basketball,” he said. “It was wheelchair only so I couldn’t play.
“Table tennis was an option and I never looked back.
“I thought it was to be just a bit of fun and it’s taken over my life and took me all over the world.”
One key piece of Pellissier’s development was getting a scholarship at Maribyrnong Sports Academy.
He said they allowed him opportunities to travel overseas and allow him to be part of a high performance environment at such an early age.
“It has helped my development and results in the last seven years.”
Pellissier took take part in a training camp in the lead up to the Games in Melbourne.
He said he’d work hard those next four weeks, before heading to Paris.
Patrick French Para-Archery
The Romsey community is getting behind Patrick French in his quest for gold at the Paralympics.
French has been named in the six-person Australian archery team for the Paris Games which start next month.
French said it was pretty special to be heading to the Games. Australia didn’t have Para-Archery teams in 2008 or 2012 and there has been a resurgence of the sport.
“It’s unbelievable,” he said. ”It is awesome and it’s been such a quick rise for me through the ranks of the sport.
“It’s been just on two years from when I first started.
“PrettyearlyIsetmyselfalittlechallenge[to make the Paralympics].and thought I would give it a red hot crack.”
French had a workplace accident in 2015 that left him paralysed from waist down and with an acquired brain injury.
Before his accident he’d only done archery a couple of times as a child for a bit of fun.
“I got a bow and I thought I would try my luck with hunting,” he said. “I never did that, I got the bow and got into target archery and it became full on.”
FrenchshotanAustralianindoorrecordlast year, but as he wasn’t qualified it didn’t count.
It’s just more motivation for him to do it again.
French said many people didn’t think he would get an opportunity like this after his accident.
“I’m not amazed that much,” he said. “When something happens like that you can sit around and be miserable or try and enjoy your life despite it.”
French has set big expectations for himself for the Games.
“I want to be up on the podium,” he said. “I’m not going just for the experience.
“I want to put Australia on the map for internationally for archery.”
French’s family won’t be able to make the trip to Paris, but they and the rest of the local community had gotten behind one of their own.
“It has been overwhelming the support I’ve had from them,” he said. “The local pubs in Lancefield and Romsey had a meat raffle.
‘I’ve had support from everyone there. The Romsey Football Club is doing a little fundraiser for me in the next few weeks.
‘It is awesome and they are happy for me, they don’t care if I do well or not.”
Chris Addis Para-table tennis
After taking some time off table tennis, the decision to return to the sport seriously has paid off for Melton’s Chris Addis.
Addis will be part of the Australian para-table tennis team for the Paris Paralympics and will compete in the men’s singles and doubles, and mixed doubles.
Addis said it was pretty exciting to get his shot at the Games.
“It is pretty special,” he said. “I probably thought from a year out or so that I might be a good shot of making the team.
“I trained hard and made all the tournaments. It’s incredible.”
Addis, who was born with Spina Bifida, tried a number of sports growing up before falling in love with table tennis.
He has been playing ever since.
“I’ve been playing for the last 20 years,” he said. “I started in high school and I was playing with a friend and he took me to the local club and I never looked back.”
He said his mum always believed that he couldgofar,buthecouldhaveneverimagined where he would get with his table tennis.
Addis made an Australian team for the World Championships in 2014 having made
Let the Games begin
Thecompellingstoriesof160athletesacross17
sports will form the next chapter of Australia’s Paralympic story at the Paris Paralympic Games.
The 2024 Australian team, co-captained by eight-time Paralympic medallist in athletics Angie Ballard and triple gold medallist in para-canoe Curtis McGrath, features record-breakers and change-makers.
Madison de Rozario and Brenden Hall will carry the Australian flag in the opening ceremony ahead of what is hoped to be a strong Games.
The Aussie team is brimming with the experience of a combined 196 Paralympic Games appearances.
Table tennis player Danni Di Toro will compete at her eighth Games, placing her equal-second only to Libby Kosmala (12) as Australia’s most enduring Paralympian.
The team is 56 percent male and 44 percent female, 61 athletes (38 percent) will make their Paralympic debut, and the average age of the Australian athletes in Paris will be 31.3 years.
Australian Paralympic team Chef de Mission Kate McLoughlin acknowledged the vast amount of work that has gone into bringing the team together.
“This is a team that all Australians can get behind,” she said.
“They are incredible athletes, exceptional human beings and a wonderful example of what can be achieved with determination
his Australian debut in 2011.
He then took a break from the sport.
“I had some time off to have some kids,” he said. “I had not been playing internationally
for the last eight years or so.
“The kids are a bit older now, nine and six. They have a bit of an idea [what the Olympics are], especially the nine-year-old
“He is pretty proud.”
The 35-year-old takes inspiration not only from his family but Paralympian Kurt Fearnley, who he says became a leader in Para-sport at a time where the sport hadn’t been as prominent.
Addis said the Melton Table Tennis Club has been one of his biggest supporters since he started.
He said his aims for the Games are pretty simple.
“Basically I want to play my best,” he said. I want to really enjoy the experience, try to remember all the training and hope it pays off.”
Addis has one piece of advice for anything thinking of taking up the sport.
“Go and try it,” he said. “Get to a local club and see where it takes you.”
Team mate Nathan Pellissier was full of praise of Addis.
“It was really pleasing to see Chris come back and cement his spot in the Paralympic team. It was a really good moment for the whole team. It’s a shame for Caleb [Crowden, whomissedout],buthe’syoungandhastime.”
and resilience.
“A lot of the team delivery work was undertaken by some of the best operators in their field in the world. Others produced a hugeamountofgruntworkthatwasabsolutely essential to this campaign.
“This team has taken years to assemble and I hope everyone who has played a part in supporting and developing our athletes feels a great sense of pride when they see them representing Australia in Paris. This team is ready and raring to compete on the biggest stage of all and make all Australians proud.”
Among the highlights of the Australian teamisthelargesttabletennisteamsince1968 and the largest archery team in 40 years.
Australia’s triathlon squad of 13 athletes is the largest since the sport was introduced at Rio 2016, while powerlifters Hani Watson and Ben Wright will become Australia’s first Paralympians in the sport since London 2012.
Cyclist Jessica Gallagher will compete at her fifth Paralympics, which includes two appearances for Australia at the Paralympic Winter Games.
Gallagher also competed in athletics at London 2012.
Patrick French receives his ticket. (Archery Australia)
(Archery Australia)
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
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
Heritage walks
Enjoy a leisurely one-and-a-half hour walk around historic Williamstown and nearby suburbs with guide John. Walks start at 9.20am each Tuesday outside the Visitor Information Centre in Nelson Place. Each week is a different week with a printed sheet with the route and points of interest provided each week. Walks are leisurely and usually end at a café for a tea-coffee.
John, 0418 377 336
Community morning tea
A free community meeting tea occurs every Wednesday at 11am in Joan Kirner House foyer, 14 Thompson Street, Williamstown.
Tahlia, 9397 6168
Diabetes support
Westgate diabetes support group meets on the first Tuesday of each month at Altona bowling club at 10am.
Elaine, 0415 030 996.
Day View Club
Altona Day View Club meets on the third Wednesday of each month at 11am.
Jan, 0419159783
Point Gellibrand Rotary Club
The Rotary Club of Point Gellibrand meets at a local Williamstown restaurant on the first and third Tuesday of the month from 6pm for a 6.30pm dinner meeting. The club has some great speakers and needs new, energic, enthusiastic members who want to make a difference in their community to join the fun club.
rotarypointgellibrand.com.au, or
Janevski) 425097_09
facebook.com/pointgellibrandrotary, or call Pam, 0418 347 691 or rotarypointgellibrand@gmail.com
Fiddle group
The Newport Folk and Fiddle Beginner Play Along Group is a great place for beginners or those with some experience, to play music in a safe, casual and welcoming environment. Come on down, have some fun, make new friends, have a cuppa and maybe even learn something new. All instruments and levels of expertise are welcomed where the main aim is to enjoy music and have fun.
Children are also most welcome. The third Saturday of the month, from 6.30pm to 8.30pm, at 2nd Newport Scouts, 6 Market Street, Newport.
nffc.org.au/beginner-playalong
Willin Wimmin Community choir, Discover the joy of group singing with the friendly women at WiIlin Wimmin choir in Williamstown. New members are always welcome, no audition. We sing contemporary, folk, choral and world repertoire in acapella style. The group meets on Wednesdays during school term, from 7.30pm to 9.30pm, at The Bridge Church hall, 119 Douglas Parade, Williamstown. The first two evenings of attendance are free.
willinwimmin.org.au or willin.wimmin@ gmail.com
Prep for employment course
Seeking a change in career or how to improve your employability? Receive face-to-face help with job searches, resumes, interviews, upskilling and more in a prep for employment course. At 43 Mason Street, Newport.
9391 8504, outlets@outletsco-op.com. au
Intro to computers course
For beginners and those looking to refresh skills. The computer lab is fully equipped for interactive and hands-on learning. Accessing information, resources, file management, emails, Microsoft Office, AI and online safety. At 43 Mason Street, Newport.
9391 8504, outlets@outletsco-op.com.
au
Laverton Community Choir
The choir is welcoming new members, especially male voices. If you love singing and would like to be part of a choir, come along and try out your vocal cords with this fun and welcoming group of singers. There are no auditions and you don’t need to be able to read music. The group meets on Thursday evenings during school terms at Laverton P12 College, 91 Bladin Street, Laverton, from 7-9pm.
Sue, 0418 386 147, or lavertoncommunitychoir@gmail.com
Alcoholics Anonymous
Regular meetings of Alcoholics Anonymous are held at St Andrew’s Church Hall, Williamstown, Wednesdays at 7pm, and Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Newport, Thursdays at 6.30pm and Saturdays at 8.30am. All welcome including friends and family of people with drinking problems.
1300 22 22 22, or aatimes.org.au
Laverton Community Education Centre
Laverton Community Education Centre has started free AMEP classes in Williamstown Community Education Centre at the Joan Kirner House, on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 9.30am-3pm. Participants can build English, digital and employability skills with the Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP).
9369 2726
Havin’ a boot scootin’ good time
AltonaRotaryhasreceivedaboosttoitscoffers following a boot scootin’ fundraiser at Altona Sports Club. A line dancing fundraiser was held at the club on Friday, August 16, during which $2600 was raised for the Rotary club. About 110 line dancers gathered to support the Rotary club. Guest instructors Cynthia Rennolds from Cactus Moon line dancers in Hoppers Crossing and Stephen Paterson from Line Dance Stephen Paterson in Yarraville kept the crowd dancing all night
This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Bulla Park Mushrooms chief executive Georgia Beattie. (Damjan
The event raised money for Altona Rotary.
About 110 line dancers took part in the fundraiser for Altona Rotary Club. (Pictures: Supplied)
About 110 line dancers took part in the fundraiser.
Enjoy a delicious taste of Spain
By Eddie Russell
ThoseinthewestcangetatasteofSpainstraight “from the pan to the plate” with Pop-Up Paella on Saturday August 31.
‘The Paella Guy’ – chef Nathan Inglis – will return to St Anne’s Winery in Myrniong to deliver a culinary experience.
A chef since he was 15, Mr Inglis has put together an extensive resume, having worked in revered Spanish restaurant Bar Nacional in the CBD as well as living in Spain for four years.
He said that his time abroad was transformative.
“When I went over there, I couldn’t even say helloorhowareyou.ButbytheendIwasfluent and I carried back with me the cuisine and the passion for Spanish culture,” he said.
This is not the first Pop-Up Paella session Mr Inglishasconductedatthewinery–hesaidthe last one was a “raging success” and it is clear there is an appetite for more.
“It was fantastic. We exceeded my expectations… St Anne’s is the epicentre for people from Melbourne, Geelong, and Bendigo to go,” said Mr Inglis.
Food lovers can look forward to traditional paellas with mixed meats and seafood as well as vegetarian and vegan options.
If there is room left in hungry stomachs, churros are also on the menu.
St Anne’s Winery employee Jake Currey said he hoped the collaboration would continue in the future given the demand.
“The first one was so successful that we are going to try and make it a bi-monthly thing,” he said.
This September, the Bluestone Church Arts Space in Footscray turns into a hub of dark humour and stinging social commentary with Lana Schwarz’s latest show, The Term-inator.
The award-winning western suburbs performance artist is back with another subversivelookatmodernlifethattellsastory intertwining songs and shadow puppets.
The second in Schwarcz’s trilogy of “unsellable shows”, The Term-inator is theatre about abortion and comedy.
Art exhibition a family affair
Light Touch, an exhibition featuring the compelling works of Dr Varga Hosseini and his father, Fari Hosseini, is on display at Altona’s Louis Joel Gallery until Septebmer 13.
Dr Hosseini, an academic and artist, explained that the title “Light Touch” reflects the techniques used in the creation of the pieces and the unique themes they explore.
“I suppose there are different elements to light that I’ve been interested in such as the physical element of visible light, and also there’s the metaphysical aspect, and the spiritual aspect of light,” he said.
“We are really looking at how it reacts with texture, paste, gloss and sudden varnish and the kind of effect it has on the viewers.”
The Brimbank artist said art helped him to bond with his father.
“My father comes from, I suppose, a more traditional generation. I’ve been raised in this country, so for many years we struggled to find common ground,” hesaid. “But,paintingiswherewefound a link to kind of create a dialogue and discuss different aspects of creativity. I think it’s at that level of beauty and aesthetics that we have managed to find common ground.”
She explains while the show is a spectacle for entertainment purposes, the audience should walk out feeling more educated on a taboo subject.
“Yes, it’s the show I was most deeply concerned about,” she said.
“I really didn’t want to put people off, I didn’t want to create more division. I was really conscious about not making jokes about something that should be serious, it’s a subject that is very close to my heart and close to a lot of people who own a uterus’ heart and it was very important I didn’t screw it up.”
“I was inspired by the election of Trump in 2016, and I think I saw the writing on the wall, and I just went. I don’t like the look of this, and I could see where it was going, and I was not very happy to be correct. But, ultimately he stacked the supreme court and Roe v Wade was reversed,” Schwarz said.
Schwarz spoke about the depiction of dark humour in the show as a tool to help flesh out the intricacies surrounding abortion.
“It’s a magnificent tool to use and it has proven to be successful in a lot of ways, and let’s not beat around the bush there are a lot of people who do get upset when you seem to be making light of something but in no way is it making light of anything, it’s finding that humour to be able to allow us to discuss the deeper things.”
Locals and visitors are invited to The Wyndham Learning Festival, which is set to run from September 1-7, across the City of Wyndham.
The Wyndham Learning Festival is an annual series of events, led by Wyndham Community and Education Centre with support from Wyndham City Council. This year’s theme, Empowering Communities Through Lifelong Learning, promises an enriching experience and lifelong learning for all.
The festival provides a broad range of opportunities that match the needs, interests, and aspirations of the vibrant and varied
Wyndham community.
The festival launch will take place on August 31, from 12.30pm-4pm, at Encore Events Centre, Hoppers Crossing. As part of the festival launch, Dr Karl will lead an eco-expedition into sustainable science and climate.
There will be a cultural learning showcase to discover Wyndham Community and Education Centre, held on September 4, from 2pm-4pm.
Hannah Moloney will host Green Living Series on September 7, 10am-11.30am, at Italian Social Club in Werribee.
Meanwhile locals can join for an epic family
game night extravaganza with Kip McGrath Education Centre in Werribee, on September 6, 7pm-9pm.
There will be business learning presented by Westend Business Hub and Wyndham CEC on September 5, 9am-4pm, at Hoppers Crossing.
ME Bank senior mobile bank manager Craig Archer will give an economic and property market update, providing further information on business at Hoppers Crossing, from 1.30pm-2.30pm on September 5. Details: wynlearnfestival.org.au/
Afraa Kori
Visitors are encouraged to absorb the artworksonmultiplelevelsandengagein self reflection.
“I would like the works to be reflective in two senses of the term. On the one hand they attempt to reflect the effect of light. But, on the other hand, it is hoped that the paintings would create an opportunity for people to contemplate things. So reflection is contemplation or meditation on those profound moments thatyoulookattheworldandyou’rekind of led to think about, you know, your place in it, or just think about how light makes you feel.”
Nathan Inglis, ‘The Paella Guy’ cooking up a storm at St Anne’s in July. (Supplied)
Dr Karl will launch the festival on August 31. (Supplied)
Lana Schwarcz’s The Term-inator, will show at the Bluestone theatre in September. (Damjan Janevski) 425268_03
SPORTS QUIZ
1. Dustin Martin announced his retirement on August 6 after playing how many AFL games?
2. Due to her husband’s job at the club, which NRL referee has controversially been banned from officiating South Sydney Rabbitohs games?
3. Historically, what aquatic sport is Mexico’s most fruitful Olympic event?
4. Nina Kennedy, Australia’s first female field event
Olympic gold medallist, competes in what sport?
5. Aussie cyclists pipped Great Britain for gold in the men’s team pursuit when Britain’s Ethan Hayter made what error?
6. Rachael Gunn (Raygun) became an overnight sensation after her Olympic debut in which sport?
12. Which NRL fullback is at the centre of a recent white powder photograph scandal?
13. What was the motto of the 2024 Paris Olympics?
14. What name is given to the two rods either side of a volleyball net that serve as a vertical extension of the court boundary?
15. Alexei Popyrin recently claimed his maiden ATP Tour title at which tennis competition?
Leading up to his 16th season in the NBA, which team did Patty Mills recently sign with?
Champion racehorse Black Caviar died earlier this month on the eve of which birthday?
And how many races did Black Caviar win in her career?
What was the most recent Australian city to host the Commonwealth Games?
And in what year did that Commonwealth Games take place?
21. What is the name of the Australian national wheelchair rugby team?
22. Port Adelaide’s traditional black and white home guernsey is known by what nickname?
23. How many total medals did Australia win at the 2024 Paris Games?
24. And how many of those were gold medals?
25. American-born Keegan Palmer won back-to-back gold medals for Australia in which sport at the Paris Olympics?
26. Which cricket venue may not host Test matches from the 2026–27 season onwards?
27. Gold Coast Titans player Kieran Foran recently hit what game milestone?
28. Who currently sits on top of the Women’s WTA Tennis tour rankings?
29. Corey McKernan, Chris Grant and Jobe Watson all won but were ineligible to receive which AFL award?
30. Which African country won its first ever Olympic medal at Paris 2024?
Black Caviar
Alexei Popyrin Alexei 3008
Winning Kia EV a quiet achiever
By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring
Quiet (tick), achiever (tick) – quiet achiever: withlittlemorethanthehumofthemotors,the EV9carriedoffacoupleofthemostprestigious prizes of 2024 – World Car of the Year and World Electric Vehicle.
A jury of 100 distinguished automotive journalists representing 29 countries, shouted out the innovative design, spacious seven-seat interior and competitive pricing of Kia’s first triple-row, all electric flagship SUV as being world beating.
Now Australia has the opportunity to find out, with the recent arrival of three variants, named with a nod to sustainability and the natural environment, Air, Earth and GT-Line.
The single motor, rear-wheel drive Air leads off, with dual motor, all-wheel drive Earth and GT-Line topping out the trio.
Prices range from $97,000, plus on-road costs for the single motor, front-wheel drive Air through the dual motor AWD powertrain Earth clocks out at $106,500 and the GT-Line $121,000.
The Air motor produces 160kW and 350Nm for a range of 443km, while the latter pair punch out 283kW and 700Nm for a range of up to 512km, with the GT-Line able to scoot from rest up to 100km/h in 5.3 seconds. The Earth variant was on test.
The SUV continues to set the standard for Kia’s sustainable theme with the use of eco-friendly recycled and natural materials, such as bioplastics, recycled PET fabrics and carpet, plus bio-paint all aimed at the company achieving carbon neutrality by 2045.
The EV9 is covered by Kia’s generous seven-year unlimited kilometre warranty, plus seven years for the battery. Pre-paid services range from $706 for three years or 45,000km up to $1997 for seven years or 105,000km.
Styling Kia says it’s a matter of ‘opposites attract’ in designphilosophywithacombinationofrugged capability and serenity and sophistication. At five metres long and almost two metres wide there’s plenty of the former and a hint of what the latter has to show inside.
The front looks to the future for all Kia EVs with confident, clean lines. A bold body colouredgrilleisflankedbyverticalheadlamps forming the company’s signature Digital Tiger Face, and innovative LED daytime running
lights, which will be carried by all Kia EV models.
A strong SUV profile takes cues from an aircraftfuselage,whichtogetherwithaKia-first 3-D underbody cover, front air curtains, retractable flush door handles and jazzy aerodynamic 19-inch alloy wheels, achieves an exceptional drag co-efficient of Cd 0.28.
Fine detail is a complement to the fuss-free power tailgate in the form of three-pronged LED lamps that follow the lead of headlamps up front. New premium colours Iceberg Green and Pebble Grey are available across the range.
Interior
A ‘Technology for Life’ pillar was Kia’s way of getting the best out of space, comfort and technology while reimagining the family SUV. There’s a completely flat floor, thanks to the company’s award-winning modular platform, which allows occupants to relax in lounge-like surroundings.
Standard features for comfort and convenience include heated and ventilated synthetic leather front seats with lumbar support and heated synthetic leather trimmed steeringwheel.Entrytothethirdrowofseatsis made easy by remote folding of the second row.
A cantilevered centre console, while including limited storage, allows for a large open storage area at floor level underneath. It also houses vehicle start, park and driveselection functions, freeing space for more storage,chargingsocketsandwirelesscharging pad.
Boot space ranges from 333 litres, with all seatbacks up, to 2318 litres with second and third rows folded. There’s also a 52-litre cubby under the bonnet, which doubles as a charging cable store.
Infotainment
The dashboard is dominated by twin 12.3-inch touchscreens integrated with a 5-inch display producing a futuristic interface for the control of vehicle functions such as infotainment and instrument systems.
There’s no such thing as a perfect vehicle, trust me. And the EV9 has its little quirks. For example, the climate control information is displayed on the wide screen between the info and instrument cluster and is almost totally obscured by the steering wheel.
EV9 does debut Over-the-Air updates for its Kia Connect system, which enables continuous ‘wireless’improvementstomanyofthevehicle’s inboardsystems,andaHighwayDrivingAssist 2 system.
Engines/transmissions
The EV9 Earth all-wheel drive model is powered by twin electric motors putting out a total of 283kW and 700Nm with the capability of a six-second sprint to 100km/h and a range of up to 512km on a single charge.
Safety
The wellbeing of World COTY occupants, inevitably, looms large, so it’s no surprise that the development of the EV9 involved focusing on safety, hence the top five-star rating reigns across the model range.
Kia Advanced Driver Assistance makes up the basis of this, which also extends to travellers in other vehicles and pedestrians and includes such features as Highway Driving Assist 2 with hands-on detection, Forward Collision Avoidance Assist 2 with Junction Crossing, Lane Oncoming and Lane Change Side functions.
Backing these up are Lane Keeping and
Lane Following Assist, Blind Spot Collision Avoidance Assist, Intelligent Speed Limit Assist and Smart Cruise Control with Stop/Go, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Avoidance, front and rear Park Distance Warning and rear-view monitor.
EV9 Earth adds Blind-Spot Monitor, SurroundViewMonitor,plusParkingCollision Avoidance Assist – Reverse, while GT-Line chips in with Remote Smart Parking Assist 2 and Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist –Reverse. Front, side, curtain and front centre airbags add up to nine.
Driving
As mentioned in my introduction, the EV9 really lives up to the claim as a quiet achiever.
Little noise – motor, road or wind – intrudes into the passenger cabin. The same cannot be said for a plethora of audible safety warnings and intervention. All become a bit wearing. Turn them off and let the driver drive.
The other side of the coin is the ride and handling, which like most Kias has had the attentionofAustraliansuspensionexpertswith vast experience of our country’s roller-coaster road quality. And there’s no shortage of oomph when accelerating – zero to 100km/h in six seconds, to be exact.
Size does matter here with the bulky SUV showing some unsteadiness on changing direction at speed. Toning down the enthusiasm did the trick, while three braking regen and a one-pedal mode were as good as a new best friend.
Brakes were sharp enough to confidently pull up the two-and-a-half tonne wagon under normal circumstances. Towing is rated at 2500kg with a braked trailer, a 750kg rig with no brakes. Watch out here for a compromised driving range.
Over a week of work, from driver alone to a ‘full house’, the energy consumption averaged 20.2kWh (better than the maker’s combined claim of 22.3kWh). As for charging, the test carwastoppeduponapublicfastchargerfrom 30 to 80 percent, giving a range of 482km. The time taken was 46 minutes at a cost of a tad over $17. I could live with that.
Summary
The Kia EV9 the best car in the world? More than a hundred motoring writers can’t be wrong . . . can they?
The Kia EV9 the best car in the world? More than a hundred motoring writers can’t be wrong . . . can they? (Pictures: Supplied)
Finals football and netball was front and centre on Saturday in Melbourne’s north-west. StarWeeklyphotographer Ljubica Vrankovic was out shooting some of the action.
The competition is heating up
West Coburg’s Donnacadh Cleary gets a kick away. 427096_06
Jake Carlisle marks in front Jacob Langborne and Mitch Brockwell. 427092_08
Riddell’s Meredith Ball. 427091_16
Wallan’s Riley Gilchrist. 427092_01
Burnside Heights’ Antonio Vitalone and Taylors Lakes’ Christian Petersen. 427093_17
Hillside’s Jackson McMenamin. 427096_10
Riddell’s Madison Brown. 427091_02
Diggers Rest’s Shaun Campbell. 427092_05
Wallan’s Genevieve Carboon. 427091_05
Taylors Lakes’ Ethan Caffari. 427093_05
Women’s grand final joy, heartbreak for men
It was one out of three for Footscray on the Rugby Union Victoria grand final day on Saturday.
The Bulldogs had their senior men’s team in theDewargrandfinal,withtheteamgoingfor their first title in that division since 1937.
Theirsecondsidewasgoingforback-to-back sides, while their women’s side that formed earlier this year was aiming for success in the Lindorth10s.
In the end, it was only the women’s team that came away with a premiership.
Bulldogs David Diack said it was still a pretty special day for the club.
He said to have three teams in grand finals was massive especially where the club has come from the past few years.
At the end of 2022, the senior side finished bottom and then their club rooms were destroyed by flooding.
“To get three teams into the grand final
is really good,” he said. “Our women’s team which is a new team this year were able to win the premierships.
“Our president has done a lot to try and establish a women’s team and get Colts back for the first time since 2021.
“The women’s program is massive for him.”
In the Dewar Shield, the Bulldogs lost 31-12 to Power House.
Diack said it was a really good match.
“They were able to blow the score line out in the end with two late tries in the last six to seven minutes.
“They broke apart the game. It was really hard fought. It’s disappointing for the boys as they played really well.
“We were a little bit unfortunate with a few things.”
Diacksaidwhilethegroupwasdisappointed now, they would look back at the future and see that they’d achieved something really
great.
“I think sometimes a loss build extra fire in the belly to get them there,” he said. “They put a lot out to get there and they’ll be back trying to get there again and have that same feeling of making a grand final.”
The women’s side claimed their premiership in the Lindorth10s winning 42-12.
Diack said there had previously been a western suburbs women’s team but this was the first time they’d had their own team.
He said having new facilities had made it nicer for the women’s side.
Diack said they were hoping this is the building point for the club going forward.
He said they would love to get some lights at Henry Turner Reserve and further develop the ground to help take the program to the next level.
Tara Murray
Panthers get through
By Tara Murray
Newport moved through to the second week of the Western Football League division 2 finals with ease on Sunday.
The Panthers faced the Suns in an eliminationfinalonSunday,withthePanthers favourites to continue their season.
On the scoreboard, the Panthers had the game all but won at quarter time, leading by 39 points.
They kept the gap through the second quarter before extending it in the second half, winning 14.16 (100)-4.2 (26).
Panthers coach Rodney Van Riet said it was a pretty good performance.
“It was really good to walk away with a win and advance,” he said. “In finals you never know what will come up.
“We had a tough win against them last time and they came out ready to fire.
“The first 10-12 minutes was a real arm wrestle before we got things on our own terms.”
Van Riet said they needed to ensure they didn’t panic and stick to the game plan which they did.
He said they were first to adapt and were able to build from there.
The experienced finals player said it was a differentfeelingbeingacoachinafinalsgame.
“To be honest the nerves were higher being a coach than a player,” he said.
“We have a good team around us and a number have finals experience the last couple of years and it held us in good stead.”
The match came to an early end due to lightning.
VanRietsaidtheyfinishedabout15minutes earlyandinhindsightitwasn’ttheworstthing as it gives them a little more rest heading into week two of finals.
Munir Elhouli, Hussein Hansa, Abdul Jawad and Jawad Jawad kicked two goals each for the Panthers.
Van Riet said that Heath Rafferty was clearly best on ground and has really stood up the last few weeks.
Captain Abdul Jawad was another key in leading from the front.
The Panthers now face Wyndhamvale in a knockout semi final on Sunday.
The Falcons beat Albanvale in their elimination final.
It was Wyndhamvale that won the first matchup between the sides.
“A lot has changed since then,” Van Riet said. “They are even across the board and they paly their game plan well.
“This will be another step up and another challenge and hopefully we come out as winners.”
Albion and Sunshine will play off in the other semi final with a grand final spot on the line.
Season over for Willy CYs
After a season of so much joy, Williamstown CYMS’ finals campaign in the Victorian Amateur Football Association premier B women’s competition has ended in straight sets.
The CYs entered the finals undefeated and favourites but suffered back-to-back losses to end hopes of a second straight premiership.
The second of those losses came in the preliminary final on Sunday against Fitzroy.
It was the CYs who started the better of the teams, leading three goals to nothing at quarter time.
The Lions kicked the four goals of the second quarter to take the lead at half time.
The CYs had the wind in the third quarter and kicked the only two goals to take a six point lead into the final quarter.
All the scoring came from Fitzroy in the final quarter as they were able to do enough to win, 5.3 (33)-5.1 (31).
Alessia Acquaro and Loren Mills kicked two goals each for the CYs.
Kiara Palmar, Acquaro and Lauren Winter were named their best.
In the premier B men’s competition, the CYs momentum was halted by Old Trinity.
Having moved out of the relegation zone in recent weeks, the CYs were hoping to continue the winning momentum.
Old Trinity led all day, but the match was still for the taking in the third quarter.
Old Trinity was able to do enough to hold off the CYs, winning 18.12 (120)-15.7 (97).
Harrison Miller kicked four goals for the CYs.
Brad Tucker, Jordan Busuttil and William Bokma were named their best.
The CYs finish their season on Saturday against bottom side St Bedes-Mentone Tigers.
Footscray women’s side claimed the premiership. (Supplied)
In division 1, finals match ups are locked in. Werribee has the week off after finishing top with a win against Caroline Springs in the final round.
The win was enough to seal the minor
premiership.
The Lakers will take on Yarraville Seddon in a qualifying final on Saturday, while Altona and Hoppers Crossing will play in an elimination final on Sunday.
Abdul Jawad. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 421550_23
Alessia Acquaro. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 403543_32
Decisive win keeps the Seagulls’ season alive
Williamstown kept its Victorian Football League season alive with a strong four quarter performance against Richmond in the wildcard round.
The Seagulls stamped their authority early in the game on Sunday and were able to keep the momentum for the full four quarters, winning 18.12 (12)-7.12 (54).
Seagulls coaching director Jeff Andrews said they were starting to put together some really strong form at the right time of the year.
“We did what we needed to do and it was a good day for the club,” he said.
“We asked the boys to attack the game and keep composed. Everyone was great and we used the ball really well.”
Andrews said it was a typical day at DSV Stadium with a wind to one direction of the ground.
The Seagulls had it first and managed to
kick away to a 45 point lead.
Andrews said it was what set up the game for them.
“We kicked seven first quarter goals and managed to play well into the wind in the second quarter,” he said.
“We had a good third quarter to put the game out of reach. We were able to hold on in the fourth quarter.”
Brodie McLaughlin kicked four goals for the Seagulls while Jack Toner got three and Nicholas Ebinger and Jack Brown kicked two.
Andrews said Toner was the best player on the field.
Aswellashisthreegoalshehad30disposals and seven clearances.
McLaughlin also had a good game as did Corey Rich, who took nine marks. Andrews said they had half a dozen to 10 really good players.
The Seagulls were able to welcome back Joel Fitzgerald and Aidan Bonar back into the side which was a bonus.
Andrews said the win would help the confidence in the group continue to grow.
The side will play knockout matches for the
Opportunity for Birthisel
By Tara Murray
Footscray bowler Max Birthisel is hoping to make the most of what he learned as part of the Melbourne Stars Academy squad for the Top End T20 Series.
Birthisel was one of two Bulldogs players included in the squad which forms a key part of Cricket Victoria’s new T20 high performance program.
The series included four Big Bash sides, along with three state sides and teams from Pakistan and Bangladesh.
Birthisel said it was a pretty cool opportunity.
“It was pretty good,” he said. “I absolutely loved it, it was great.
“Clint McKay [Stars T20 high performance manager] rang me up maybe a month out. I was already up in Darwin at the time.
“I think the Big Bash clubs are pretty exciting and I think it’s probably a step up from the pathway sort of stuff now, especially being out of the pathways.”
Birthisel said the Stars set up was the most professional set up that had been involved in He said you could tell straight away it was that it was an elite sort of set up.
Among those in the Stars squad was Australian bowler Scott Boland, who also acted as a bowling assistant coach.
“IdefinitelyhadafewchatstoScottyaround a few plans and what I was trying to do in a few games and he was great,” Birthisel said.
“He’s such a down to earth bloke and such a great person to talk to and obviously he has such a wealth of knowledge as well, he was absolutely awesome.”
Birthisel played in four games for the Stars, bowling in three and taking two wickets.
While he wasn’t 100 per cent happy with his performance, Birthisel said there were some good signs.
“It wasn’t too bad,” he said. “I’m still pretty happy about things, but definitely I was hoping to go a little bit better.
“I definitely have a few things to work on and I think if I do a few things right, I’m not too far away.”
Footscray opener Dylan Brasher was also part of the team, having played in the competition the past couple of years.
Birthisel will now start focusing on the Victorian Premier Cricket pre-season with the Bulldogs.
He said it would be slightly different having already got some games under his belt.
“I’m kind of already in season,” he said. “Nothingtoodifferent,Ihavetokeepbowling.
“Footscray are only just getting into their pre-season and starting their skills and I’m well ahead of that now.”
Birthisel said he would look to work on his red ball bowling a little bit but said he felt white ball cricket was probably his strength.
“It was such a good experience [the top end
series] to put all the things I’ve learnt into action, it’s good fun.
I definitely think my skills are better suited to the white ball... I think to give myself the
rest of the year.
“We’ve played really well the last couple of weeks,” he said. “We’re happy with how we are playing.”
The Seagulls now face Box Hill in an elimination final on Saturday.
Andrews said they would have to continue their good form.
“They beat us about four weeks ago and towelled us up,” he said. “We learned a lot in thatgameandhopefullyitwillholdusingood stead.”
Meanwhile,fourWilliamstownplayerswere named in the 30 player VFLW All-Australian squad.
Sharnie Whiting, Ash Thorneycroft, Eliza Straford and Lori Stepnell are in contention for the final team.
Tara Murray
Spurs’ season comes to end
Parkside Spurs were unable to keep their Western Football League women’s season going, getting knocked out in the preliminary final against the Werribee Centrals.
After an impressive first finals win and their first in the Western league, the Spurs faced a Centurions side hoping to make it third time lucky in a preliminary final.
The Centurions had lost the other semi final to Caroline Springs.
On Saturday, the Centurions kicked five goals to none in the first quarter to set the tone of the match.
It was game over at half time, with the margin 53 points.
The Spurs were finally able to get on the scoreboard in the third quarter, kickingtwogoalsandwinningtheterm.
TheCenturionsfoundanotherlevelin the last quarter to run away with a 15.6 (96)-3.7 (25) win.
Larissa Renaut kicked seven goals for the Centurions with Taylah Bloss, Meghann Basto and Georgia Paul named their best.
For the Spurs, Taquila Angel kicked two goals in her 50th game.
She was named best along with Rita Ceravolo and Stephanie Holland, The Centurions now face Caroline Springs in the grand final this Saturday at Skinner Reserve.
Meanwhile,CarolineSpringswillalso play off in the under-18s grand final.
The Lakers beat Spotswood-Newport Power in Saturday’s preliminary final, 8.18 (66)-3.5 (23).
Caroline Springs will face Point Cook in the grand final which will be played before the women’s grand final on Saturday.
best
“To be honest, I just want to play cricket no matter what.”
chance to keep playing is probably in the white ball game.
Jack Toner. (Ljubica Vrankovic)
Max Birthisel. (Jacob Pattison) 321156_04
Rita Ceravolo. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 410706_14
Coote growing in confidence on the diamond
Inthesummerof2017,RomanCootewasasked by one of his primary school friends to come play baseball at the Williamstown Baseball Club and the rest is now history.
Hemadehisfirststateteamin2021whichhe didn’t get to play due to Covid.
In 2023 as a bottom age player he made the under-16 team and again as top ager this year.
“Baseball try outs are a little different to other sports,” Coote said. “Anyone can go and try out for a spot in the Victorian team.
“I wanted to get chosen, it was my single focus, I was driven, motivated and disciplined.
“For me, 2023 was certainly my breakout year. I went from just your average player to making the under-16 Australian team.
“I was selected to attend the under-16 national camp in Canberra at the AIS.“
In September, Coote will fly to America to play baseball for Team Australia in the Under-16 Perfect Game World Series.
“I was never a gifted player, but I know how to work hard for what I want,” Coote said before flying out.
“Footy never really gripped me, baseball had a winter and summer season, so I played all
year round.
“The baseball club is like family. The senior players are like my older brothers and my coaches just got involved to make us all better. It is a good place to be.”
Cooteplayscentrefieldand listshisstrengths as being fast, a good catch and throws hard.
When he bats, his base running is fast, something that coaches are looking for.
“Arm strength is something I’m working on,” he said. “I injured my shoulder in January while making a base run.
“I dived to make the plate and got caught up in play. I was pretty frustrated and I have spent many hours in rehabilitation.”
Coote is part of Baseball Victoria’s pathway program which trains three times a week. They work through a three hour program focusing on strength, throwing, hitting and fielding drills.
Coote then has his Maribyrnong Sports Academy and club training which rounds out a very full week.
BaseballisafamilyaffairfortheCootes’with his mother and brother involved.
Coote said he’d had some fabulous coaches
throughout his career so far.
“All of them have had the players’ best interests at the centre of their work,“ he said. “They have certainly helped make me who I am today.”
Coote still plays with Williamstown in the summer, while he plays the junior winter season with Essendon.
Long term, Coote would like to achieve an MLB contract but his major focus is to represent Australia.
“In the short term I’d like to earn an ABL [Australian Basketball League] contract and make the under-23 Australian team and perhaps the Olympics in the long term.”
The Don Deeble Sports Star Award is sponsored by the Yarraville Club Cricket Club, Strathmore Community Bank, the Deer Park Club, Ascot Vale Sports and Trophies and Star Weekly Newspapers.
If you would like to nominate a monthly winner or attend a dinner, contact swrsportsclub@gmail.com or 0408 556 631.
Peter Howe
Top honour for Hanrahan
By Tara Murray
City West Falcons’ Sophie Hanrahan didn’t think she had any hope of taking out the Victorian Netball League’s top honour after polling just one vote in the first seven rounds. By the time the votes up until round 21 were revealed, Hanrahan had hit the front of the count.
ShewouldeventuallysharetheMargCaldow Award with Wilson Storage Southern Saints defender Jessie Grenvold.
Hanrahan said it was pretty unreal to have taken out the award.
Shesaidhermumhadlookedatthevotingfor thefirstsevenroundswhenithadbeenreleased so she thought she was in with no chance.
“To be honest, I still don’t believe it,” she said days later. “It’s something I’m proud of. With all the superstars in my team, I don’t believe it, it’s a weird feeling.
“I was shell shocked.”
It’s the second VNL most valuable award for Hanrahan, who won the 2022 division 1 best player award.
She said there’s one major common factor in both awards.
“The common denominator is the Falcons,” she said. “The coaching I’ve had pulls the best out of players and they get you believing.”
Hanrahan first came down to Falcons in 2021 for a training session after one of her local teammates had played at the club.
Her local coach had also been involved with some Falcons training and they encouraged Hanrahan to have a crack.
“I have never really looked back,” she said. Having made an impact in division 1, Hanrahan was happy with how things were tracking and playing in that side.
Withsomechangestothechampionshipside for 2023, the Falcons trailed three defenders in the pre-season to look to step up into the top side.
Hanrahan got first crack when the season started and made the position her own.
“I was loving division 1 and the team,” she said. ‘When the challenge came I was never going to say no to that.
“Itmeantalottobegiventhatopportunityin championship to try and step up.”
Hanrahan played a key role in the defensive endastheFalconsclaimedthepremiership.She played in the grand final with a broken finger. This year with a completely different
defensiveend,Hanrahantookonamoresenior end.
“This year it was a young defensive unit and itwassofun,” shesaid.“Lucia[Fauonuku],Soli [Ropati], Mel [Oloamanu], Sussu [Liai] they were so relaxed
“It was really a team effort and there was no leader. If one player stepped up the others on the court rose.
“We had a good balance.”
TheFalconswereabletoclaimthetitletowin their third in a row.
Hanrahan said it was nice to be part of the back-to-back club. “It’s super special,” she said.
“There’s been so much hard work not just the last three years but before that.
“It’sagoodeffortbythegirlsandI’msolucky to get to play with these superstars.”
Hanrahan played for the Collingwood Magpies in the Australian Netball Championships last year, but is realistic that she’s not likely to get opportunities at a higher level.
Shesaidshe’smorethanhappyattheFalcons. “Iwanttokeepgettingthemostoutofmyself and whatever happens happens,“ she said.
“At the of the day I want to keep fit and be ready for the Falcons and go for that four peat.
“That is the focus as the moment.”
Hanrahan was also named in the team of the year along with star shooter Jane Cook. Cook claimed the hot shot award.
Turton departs the Gators
Outgoing Altona Gators men’s coach Josh Turton has left a winning legacy for the club’s men’s Big V program.
The Gators announced that Turton wouldn’t continue next season after three years at the club.
“Altona Gators would like to thank Josh Turton for his service to the Altona senior men’s program the last three seasons,” the club said on social media.
“Josh began as the bench coach for the senior men in 2022, then became the head coach in 2023.
“As the head coach Josh guided the men to the club’s first ever championship for a senior men’s team at Altona in a thrilling victory over the Whittlesea Pacers.
“The win saw the men’s team promoted to division 1 where Josh guided the team to another finals berth in 2024.
“Josh has left a winning legacy and great culture in the men’s program during his time at Altona. We are grateful to Josh for his dedication and enthusiasm.”
The Gators won their first final this year before the season came to an end at the hands of the Whittlesea Pacers in the semi finals.
Speaking with Star Weekly after the loss, Turton said the side had probably overachieved this season.
“Wewerehappytobethere,”hesaid. “They were coming off a game they should have won.
“Themaintalkingpointforusbefore the season was to continue building and rebuilding the culture.
“Making finals was a bonus. We don’t have the big budget as other teams and have a negative budget with players having to pay fees.
“There’s such a good culture and we have achieved so much in the last two years which is fantastic.”
