Star Weekly - Hobsons Bay Maribyrnong - 9th October 2024

Oktoberfest by the bay

The Williamstown Community Oktoberfest is set to bring a taste of German culture to Hobsons Bay this Sunday. The event, held at the Hobsons Bay Yacht Club, is modeled after the world-famous beer festival in Munich, attracting visitors from around the globe.

Attendees can expect an authentic experience, with steins of pilsner, pretzels, lederhosen, and kranskys (sausages) galore.

The yacht club’s picturesque setting, with the best views in Melbourne, promises a beautiful day for the community to come together and bid farewell to winter, while welcoming the approach of summer.

While Oktoberfest is renowned for its large-scale beer consumption, the Williamstown event is about much more. Families are welcome, with a range of activities to keep the kids entertained. Non-beer drinkers can indulge in German wine and champagne, along with a variety of delicious food and live music.

The festivities will kick off at 12:30 pm on October 13 and run through to 6:30 pm, allowing ample time for the community to immerse themselves in the rich cultural experience.

Truck safety concerns

By Cade Lucas

There are calls for stronger enforcement of truckdrivingrulesandbetterdrivereducation after a B-double was filmed mounting the kerbandrunningoveratrafficsignalatabusy Yarraville intersection last week.

The incident, which was caught on nearby security cameras, occurred at about 1.45pm onMonday,September30outsideapharmacy on the corner of Somerville Road and Williamstown Road.

Due to their length, B-doubles are prohibited from driving along Somerville Road and MTAG spokesperson Glen Yates

said video of the incident shows why.

“Because of his length, he’s 26 meters, he’s had to then straddle across the intersection to turn on to Williamstown Road, but hasn’t checked his mirrors as he’s tried to make that turn, and a good half of his trailer has come up over the curb, resulting in the traffic signal being run over by his rear rear wheels.”

While there are signs along Somerville RoadinformingB-doubledriversthattheyare banned, Mr Yates said the number of drivers employed from third party labour hire firms and drivers using Good Maps for navigation insteadofspecialisttruckdrivingapps,meant

they were often ignored.

He wants more enforcement and driver education to avoid similar incidents, saying it’s lucky no one was injured or killed.

“Had someone been standing just off those lights, they would have been run over without a doubt,” said Mr Yates.

“Without a doubt that could have been a fatality.”

In 2021, five pedestrians were injured when a B-double mounted a footpath in Southbank while attempting to turn a corner.

The B-double involved in last Monday’s incident is believed to belong to a South Australian transport company which is

understood to have launched an internal investigation.

Trucks are now the responsibility of the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) which said it had responded to the incident with more mobile patrols and an increased presence in the inner west.

“The NHVR is reminding heavy vehicle drivers to plan their journey ahead of time, taking into account any critical locations,” said a spokesperson for the regulator.

“”Drivers can plan their journey with the most accurate and up-to-date information using the NHVR’s National Network Map or Route Planner.”

Williamstown Community Oktoberfest organisers Cas Bukor, Brett Harrison and Kim Short at Hobsons Bay Yacht Club which will host the event on October 13. (Damjan Janevski) 432902_02

Climate consultation collapse

By Cade Lucas

A consultation process between a network of inner west environment groups and Fraser MP Daniel Mulino has broken down due to the federal government’s recent approval of new coal mines.

Late last month, Climate Action Maribyrnong, Brimbank Sustainability and Climate Action, and Parents For Climate West Melbourne walked out on the climate consultation process following the decision by Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek to approve three new coal projects in NSW. “We joined the climate consultation process withDanielMulinoingoodfaith,butitlooksa

lotlikelipservicewhenyouseeMinisterTanya Plibersek signing off on new coal projects,” said Climate Action Maribyrnong’s Angela Ashley-Chiew.

“IftheAlbaneseGovernmentisreallyserious about tackling climate change, it needs to stop approving the main cause of it—the mining and burning of coal, oil, and gas.”

Ms Ashley-Chiew said the network was invited to begin a consultation process with Dr Mulino, where they’d meet to discuss the government’s climate policy, soon after Labor won office at the 2022 election.

But after taking almost two years to be established,thefirstmeetingintheconsultation process was only held in March and Ms Ms

Ashley-Chiew said it quickly became apparent it was a waste of time.

“There’s just been complete inaction,“ she said.

“One of the things we were promised was that we would be more likely to listened to as a network and he (Dr Mulino) could make representationstoministersonourbehalf.And we just haven’t had any evidence of that.”

In response, Dr Mulino said he was committedtolisteningtocommunityviewson climate change and relaying them to relevant minsters.

“I meet with many stakeholders and have passed on a wide range of views and concerns to ministers, including minister Plibersek and

Do it now encourages foster carers

After seven years as a foster carer, Kim has often had the same conversation with friends and acquaintances, that foster caring was something they’d love to do – “one day”.

“My response is generally ‘what’s stopping you now?’ said Kim, who along with her partnerMichael,isafostercarerwithAnglicare Victoria in Melbourne’s inner-west.

Thecouplelookaftertwoboysagednineand 22 months and are now calling on others take on the role and help ease a chronic shortage of foster parents both in Melbourne’s west and across the state.

“People don’t realise it’s really flexible,” said Kim, 25, who began fostering while in a previous relationship.

“You have so much say in what placements you take and how long for. I didn’t start diving in the deep end taking a long-term placements. I started out doing respite and emergency care just doing what I did when I could.”

Fostering can take many forms fromemergency and respite care, to ongoing care arrangements, and can be done by adults whether they’re married, single, older, younger, with or without kids, or in same-sex relationships.

Carers don’t even need to own their own home.

Kim and Michael look after their two foster childrenatahometheyrentintheMaribyrnong council area.

The couple, who were recently engaged, met in 2022 which served as 31-year-old Michael’s introduction into fostering.

“I have found it challenging, I’m not gonna say it hasn’t been, it has opened my eyes a bit,” said Michael who as a secondary school teacher, had plenty of experience working with children.

Now a fully accredited foster parent, it’s a challenge he’s glad he took up.

“It’s a rewarding journey to be on, being able to watch the kids grow and hit milestones.“ Anglicare Victoria support program manager in the west, Spiros Drakopoulos, echoed Kim and Michael’s sentiment that foster caring was an especially fulfilling way to make a difference to a young person in need.

“In the Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay area, and across the western suburbs, there’s a real need for more foster carers to give kids in need a safe place to stay,” Mr Drakopoulos said.

“Opening up your home to a foster child is one of the biggest ways you can make a

difference to a young person who really needs it.“

Tolearnmorevisit:https://www.anglicarevic. org.au/our-services/foster-care/fostering/ CadeLucas

(minister) Bowen. Even where a stakeholder or individual has concerns with the government’s position, I try to engage genuinely,” he said.

Dr Mulino also defended the government’s environmental record, highlighting 2030 emissions reduction targets and a net zero target by 2050 being passed into law, as key achievements.

As for the future of the inner-west environment network, Ms Ashley-Chiew said theywerestillopentomeetingwithDrMulino, but not as part of a formal process. She also hinted at a potential political response.

“UntilourlocalMPsfeeltheheat,they’renot gonna listen.”

October is frogtober

The onset of October means it’s ‘Frogtober’ too and Melbourne Water is encouraging citizen scientists to get involved by recording and submitting frog calls.

The frog calls can be uploaded on the free frog census app which was launched by Melbourne Water in 2016 and averages 1700 frog call submissions per year.

“Usually, we tell people to disengage from technology when they’re enjoying the natural environment, but during ‘Frogtober’, we want them to take their phone to their local creek or waterway and use the app to help us collect valuable environmental data,” said Melbourne Water ecologist and waterwatch coordinator Jane Petch.

Each frog call submitted will be analysed by an ecologist before being added to a statewide database.

Ms Petch explained what it would then be used for.

“The data we gather via the frog census app inform Melbourne Water’s decisions about waterways and environment projects.”

The frog census was initiated in 2001 and has historically focussed on recordingfrogcallsinmetroMelbourne during April, August, October and November when frogs are most active.

“Frogs can be found all over Melbourne and regional Victoria and canbeheardcallingfromwherewateris found in bushland, parks and gardens, and urban areas,” said Ms Petch.

As an ‘indicator species’, frogs are considered crucial to understanding the health of the environment due to their sensitivity to environmental changes in water and land and being an important part of the food chain.

House values in Melbourne’s west are holding their value

DwellingsinMelbourne’swestandnorth-west are holding their value, while other areas of Melbourne start to slide, according to the latest data from CoreLogic.

Median dwelling prices in the west Melbourne and north-west Melbourne statisticalarea,whichcomprisesMaribyrnong and Hobsons Bay, Brimbank, Melton-Bacchus Marsh and Wyndham, decreased by just 0.5 and 0.4 per cent respectively in the past 12 months.

The greater Melbourne median decrease was1.4percentwiththeinnereastdecreasing most in the city at 3.9 per cent.

The national median was an increase of 6.7

per cent, largely due to a 24.1 per cent increase in Perth, and Adelaide (14.8 per cent) and Brisbane (14.5 per cent) also having strong increases.

Some of the highest growth rates for dwellings in Greater Melbourne came from the north-west.

Tullamarine - Broadmeadows area had the highest annual change, with a 1.9 per cent increase to $671,185 median price.

Wyndham also had a boost of 0.9 per cent, while Keilor rounded out Melbourne’s top 10 increases with an increase of 0.5 per cent.

Corelogic head of research Eliza Owen said Melbourne’s west is slightly above the rest of

the city due to factors involving difficult cost of living situations.

“Home values in Melbourne’s west have seen a slightly softer decline relative to the broader Melbourne market, down just 0.5 per cent through the year to date. This is the equivalentofa$3,300dollarfallinthemedian dwelling value of Melbourne’s West, which is currently $663,000,” she said.

“In the Melbourne west market, the median dwelling value to income ratio has come down to 6.2, down from a recent high of 6.7 in September quarter of 2021.

“Generally, the largest declines in home values have occurred at the high end of the

market, while relatively low-value markets have been in demand amid limited borrowing capacity, and affordability constraints.

“The slowdown in housing values across Melbourne have seen some improvement in housing affordability across the city as a whole. This is amplified by a boost to incomes from falling inflation and an increase in take home pay from the stage three tax cuts. According to the latest housing affordability reportformANZandCoreLogic,thedwelling value to income ratio for Greater Melbourne was 7.1 in June 2024, the lowest level in almost four years.”

GeraldLynch

Inner west foster parents Kim and Michael are encouraging others take up fostering too. (Supplied)

VU claims cap will cost it millions

By Cade Lucas

Victoria University claims the federal government’s proposed cap on international students would cost it $17 million next year alone.

In August, federal Education Minister Jason Clare announced plans to cap international student commencements for next year at 270,000, with certain groups such as current international students, scholarship holders, higherdegreeresearchstudentsandthosefrom the Pacific and Timor Leste, exempted.

The exemptions mean some universities will be able to increase international enrolments while other will experience a drop, with

Victoria University claiming it will be among those worse off.

“It is not a pretty picture,” said VU vice-chancellor professor Adam Shoemaker of the effect the proposal would have on the university which would have its international enrolments cut by 11 per cent compared to 2023 levels.

Professor Shoemaker said the financial impact would affect VU’s ability to cater for equity students from marginalised or disadvantaged backgrounds.

“Without revenue generated from international students, we wouldn’t have been able to implement our VU Block Model back in 2018 – a teaching method which has

Training at a stretch

Three young giraffes at Werribee Open Range Zoo are completing some important training in a fun way.

Jesse, Wayo and David are learning how to touch their noses to a target, in an effort to ensure they will be comfortable during routine medical checks and procedures that require them to be awake.

To familiarise them with participating in proactive healthcare, they are encouraged to voluntarily enter a training area where one keeper rewards them with a carrot for touching their nose to a stick.

A second keeper can then start getting them accustomed to important health care behaviours, such as touching their necks for a voluntary blood draw, holding still for dental x-rays, or even hoof care.

Zoo savannah keeper Alison Edwards

explained why some procedures must happen while the giraffes are awake.

“Youcanimaginethatanaesthetisingahuge giraffewould bequite a feat, so thistraining is to get them comfortable with keepers being close so we can do a stress-free blood draw while they’re awake.”

Each under three years of age, they have been described as playful yet fast learners.

“David is obsessed with food so he’s motivated by the treats, Wayo is shy so he’s a little more hesitant, and Jesse is like the excitable kid in class so he’s always keen to be part of the action.” Ms Edwards said.

The youngsters, who arrived at the zoo last October,alsolearnfromtheoldergiraffesand give them a run for their money out on the savannah.

dramatically improved retention and pass rates, especially for those from disadvantaged backgrounds,” he said.

VU is the only university based in Melbourne’s west and more than a third of its students come from equity backgrounds, such as First Nations students, students with a disability and students from disadvantaged backgrounds.

ProfessorShoemakersaidinvestinginequity students was part of the federal government’s universities accord and by reducing VU’s ability to do that, the government was going against its own agreement.

A spokesperson for the federal Department of Education said VU wouldn’t be as

disadvantaged by the student cap as it claimed.

“Under their proposed international student allocation for 2025, Victoria University will be able to enrol around 35 per cent more new international students next year than they did in 2019,” the spokesperson said, adding the cap was designed to ensure the quality and sustainability of international education into the future and provide certainty for universities.

Thecaponinternationalstudentsisincluded in the government’s Education Services for Overseas Students Amendment Bill 2024, which is still to be passed by parliament. If passed, the government intends the cap to come into effect on January 1, 2025.

Doing some important training (Supplied)

Play lacrosse together

Lacrosse is a popular team sport in North America, but has struggled to gain a foothold in Australia.

To help change this, Lacrosse Victoria have made a concerted effort to appeal to members of marginalised and disadvantaged communities as way of both growing the sport and promoting social inclusion.

A product of this is the Lacrosse Together Cup which will be held at PJ Lynch Reserve in Altona North on Sunday, October 20.

The cup is an annual social, round-robin event designed to celebrate diversity and inclusivityinlacrosseandmakeastandagainst

homophobia, biphobia, transphobia, and intersex discrimination in sport

Lacrosse Victoria development officer Kristen Hutchison explained how it came about.

“LacrosseVictoriahasbeenworkingthrough the rainbow road map for the past couple of yearswithProudtoPlaywhichisanot-for-profit peak organisation for LGTBTQIA+ inclusion,” Ms Hutchison said.

The sport came to working with Proud to Play and the LGBTQIA+ community after focus groups it commissioned to help grow the sport found it needed to be more inclusive and welcoming towards more marginalised communities.

Many hands-on weeding Williamstown wetlands

On Sunday morning, September 29, light rain fell, wetting the grass at the Jawbone Arboretum area.

Yet, members of Friends of Williamstown Wetlands (FOWW) still came to do the weeding,theirspiritshighdespitetheweather.

Established in 1987, FOWW is a volunteer group that maintains native flora at Jawbone Arboretum and other areas near the former Williamstown Rifle Range, to ensure that local fauna, including birds, continue to thrive.

Other activities undertaken by FOWW volunteers include the planting of indigenous plants.

“The arboretum is a showcase of what you could put in the garden, like ground covers, shrubs and trees. So also, of course, the main thing is providing habitats and wildlife,”

explained FOWW secretary Sandra Thorn.

On sunny days, the group not only weeds but also waters newly planted indigenous species, nurturing the delicate balance of this urban space.

“I’m an environmentalist, so I like to see native habitats and native birds,” said FOWW member Andrew Thornton of why he volunteers.

“It’s also something productive that you can get involved with the group... something that’s good for the environment,” he said.

FOWW,whichissupportedbytheHobsons Bay council and Parks Victoria, invites local residents to join its monthly activities, offering a chance to connect with nature and the community.

Details at https://www.friendsofwilliams townwetlands.org.au

AI election concerns

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is expected to make an appearance at local council elections this month according to the Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC).

Electoral Commissioner Sven Bluemmel has urged voters to think critically about campaign material, while encouraging campaigners to be transparent in the use of any AI-generated or AI-modified material.

In particular, the VEC is calling for visible labelling on any AI-generated or AI-modified election campaign material to ensure voters are not misled.

“Getting campaign information to voters is an essential part of the robust contestofideasinanyelection.Weknow that voters are concerned about mis- and disinformation. Voters need reliable and trustworthy information to help them make informed decisions about how to vote,” Mr Bluemmel said.

“That is why, as well as the usual authorisation statement requirements, I am urging campaigners to meet community expectations by clearly labelling any election material that has been generated or modified through the use of AI.

“We weren’t discriminating on purpose but we weren’t trying to actively include,” said Ms Hutchison of the sport’s attitude at the time.

After working to include more people with a disability into lacrosse, Ms Hutchison said Vic SportandProudtoPlayreleasingtheirrainbow road-map made the LGBTQIA+ community the obvious one to focus on next.

She said while the together cup was part of those efforts, the day was open to everyone, with all games having modified rules to suit new players.

“We play a non-contact, fun, social game where really anyone can give it a go.”

Details:http://www.lacrossevictoria.com.au/

“There are no laws in Victoria that regulate truth in political advertising. Voters are encouraged to exercise their own judgement and think critically about the information they see, before deciding to let it influence their vote. Voters should look for an authorisation statement, showing who authorised the distribution of the material. This is a legal requirement for all election campaign material.

Voters are also reminded to visit the website at vec.vic.gov.au as the source of truth for all information about the election or electoral processes.

Above: Volunteer Helene Fabb enjoys herself despite the tough conditions. Top right: Parks Victoria ranger Shaun Davis and Friends of Williamstown Wetlands (FOWW) volunteer Andrew Thornton. Right: FOWW secretary Sandra Thorn braves the elements. (Pictures: Anne Parisianne)

Volunteer Richard Richards and Peter Burns tend to new plants.

By Cade Lucas

Lacrosse Victoria’s Kristen Hutchison (front), Aluren Smith, Ally McVeigh, Jazz Stout and Kade Robinson are excited for the Lacrosse Together Cup, an annual tournament designed to celebrate diversity and inclusivity held in Altona North. (Damjan Janevski) 431593_01

Safety not submissions

By Cade Lucas

ResidentsatFootscray’sJosephRoadprecinct say Maribyrnong council should focus on improving safety and amenity in the area rather than making submissions to the state government.

In June, Maribyrnong council voted in support of making a submission to the state government’s Plan Victoria development roadmap.

According to media reports last month, the submission highlighted the Joseph Road precinct as a case study in poor planning and an example of what not to do.

Over the past decade the 15 hectare precinct bordered by the Maribyrnong River, HopkinsStreetandtheFootscrayraillinehas grown from an empty brownfield site, to one with 10 residential towers and an estimated 5000 residents.

Yet the development of basic amenities has not kept pace with unsealed roads and a lack of footpaths, car parks and tree cover among its shortcomings.

Maribyrnong council’s submission warned that without careful planning, the failures at Joseph Road would be repeated.

But residents from the Joseph Road Action Committee argue council itself is partly to blame.

“Council were very slow to act for a long time,” said committee spokesperson and precinct resident Darrell Pitt.

“Residents have really had to push for basic amenities such as pedestrian crossings, lights, street signage, really anything that makes up a suburb.”

He said while he agreed with council’s submission, the short term focus should be on improving safety issues in the precinct “Wehaveastreetinthisarea,NelsonPlace.

Nelson Place has no footpath and it has no lighting,“ said Mr Pitt.

“So it’s all very well for the council to refer this to the state government but in the meantime you still need the most basic fundamental things that should’ve been sorted years ago.”

Maribyrnong council chief executive Celia Haddock said council had opposed the large-scale development of Joseph Road, but was overruled by the then state government.

“This left council with responsibility to

installroads,footpaths,drainageandlighting with no funds and it took several years to then get a development contributions plan approvedtosupportdeliveryofthenecessary infrastructure and public amenity,” Ms Haddock said.

“This resulted in inflated residential densities and residents moving into the area without timely infrastructure and public realm upgrades.”

Ms Haddock said council had funded a range of infrastructure, safety and amenity upgrades at the precinct with more to come.

Playground extended

Due to popular demand, Scienceworks has announced the extension of the family-favourite exhibition, Air Playground, until January 27, 2025.

Since launching in December 2023, Air Playground has proved to be one of Scienceworks most popular attractions, captivating visitors with 12 interactive and engaging experiences that transform complex scientific concepts into fun, hands-on learning opportunities.

These include: squish – a full-body experience grappling with a colossal, tentacled inflatable sculpture; flow –a dreamy breeze-filled wonderland where soft fabric tubes and floating balls demonstrate the magic of airflow redirection, and fly – an aerodynamic extravaganza where participants can craftandlaunchtheirownpaperplanes.

Among new features added to Air Playground’s 600 square-metre space is an improved squish bouncy castle and an interactive wind exhibit that allows visitors to explore the science of air by throwing scarves through a tangle of air tubes, then try and catch them as they float to the ground.

Museums Victoria director and chief executive Lynley Crosswell said she was thrilled to give visitors more time to experience the exhibition.

“Air Playground continues to thrive because of our in-house expertise in creating hands-on interactive experiences, immersive spaces and sensory learning opportunities,” Ms Crosswell said.

Display Home Launch Party Lifestyle St Leonards The Shores

Save the date | Saturday 26th October

You’re invited to celebrate with us at Lifestyle St Leonards The Shores, where we’ll be launching our brand-new stunning display homes!

Designed especially for downsizers, these new modern home designs blend the very best of coastal luxury and convenience, so you can enjoy the ultimate coastal lifestyle that matters to you!

Event Details

Date: Saturday 26th October

Time: 11am – 3pm

Location: 130A Thornton Avenue, St Leonards

Free Coffee & Paella | Bay FM On-site Activation

Get an exclusive preview of our new community under construction, meet our first homeowners and chat to our Lifestyle team who can answer all your questions about downsizing on the Bellarine.

We can’t wait to see you there!

Lifestyle St Leonards The Shores

St Leonards Beach Bluff Road

Joseph Road precinct residents (from left) Rhett Warren, Brenda Alexander, Cleo Pitt and Darrell Pitt, are frustrated by the lack of infrastructure and amenities in the area. (Damjan Janevski) 435636_03

Unlocking potential worldwide

Eynesbury’s Tori Hirt is transforming education with the launch of her new school in Uganda as Afraa Kori reports.

Tori Hirt’s journey began with a powerful decision to leave her comfortable Australian life and gain a closer understanding of global issues in order to inspire change.

“I always wanted to do something regarding a school or an NGO (non-governmental organisation). This was the perfect option for meaftermyexperiencelivinginUgandaandit made sense,” said the 24-year-old.

“I witnessed a lot of corruption while in Uganda by those running schools, NGOs and especially in orphanages. This was a big drive for me, because everyone was looking like they wanted to help children and vulnerable individuals, but all money and benefits went into the pockets of directors and leaders that knew how to use the system to their benefits.

The Ugandan school system is also poor and childrenareoftenlefttofallthroughthecracks, so that was another big driver. Children have a lot of responsibilities at home which is also prioritised, health issues and extremely low financial environments really restrict children from attending school.

“It doesn’t have many welfare/support groups there and only a few schools had high school fees. So it made sense to establish an accessible education centre there.”

‘‘ Once we start looking into issues or areas that aren’t directly in front of us, perspectives and our lives truly change ’’

- Tori Hirt

While the challenges looked gigantic, Tori realised it was the perfect opportunity to take on her dream project, which she has been financing from her own pocket so far.

“Corruption within areas such as children, vulnerable people is so high in Uganda and I want to do the right thing by the community and give them what they deserve and not lie or do it for the wrong reasons. I have worked in child protection within Uganda and worked closely with vulnerable kids, adults and especially women so this school really is for them. I just want to see people really grow and do well. This is also the perfect time for me, it just makes sense to do it now.

“Everyoneisdifferentandeveryonehastheir own goals such as building a house, having a family of their own etc. But I really just want to be able to help others and have a positive impact on the world. So opening this school really does mean the world to me and I just hope we do everything right by these kids.”

Due to welcome its first students in 2025, Lotus Junior School will benefit Ugandan students and families in the village of Nakalama, which is situated in the east of the country.

“LotusJuniorSchoolwillhaveabigemphasis on child safety and wellbeing,“ explained Tori.

“Ourchildrenwillbefedeverydayatnocost tothefamilies,meaningeverychildgetsameal which is not a common occurrence at all, most children do not eat and are left hungry while at school. Students will access free physical and dental checks twice yearly, parents will get school fee help and already reduced fees to reallyencourageschoolattendance.Schoolfees are compulsory at all Ugandan schools and if they are not paid, students are turned away and cannot attend. At Lotus Junior School this system has been removed and a new family support system is in place to encourage school attendance and help our community.”

Parents like Hussein Isabirye, who was concerned about the safety and education of his children, now has hope for a better future.

“I’m very happy for giving us Lotus Junior School and I appreciate the people of Australia for giving us that school in our society. I promise that we shall be together with it and support each other in everything.”

Building new connections with leaders and community groups in Uganda has helped Tori realise her dream.

“From the start of this project I had a very good friend who is our country director (CD) and principal at Lotus Junior School who is versed in business, welfare and the education system which made this process a lot easier. His knowledge and experience have assisted so much while we developed the school,” she said

“Land was easy to access. We got approval from the village’s chairman for the school and a written contract was made. The hurdles were generally things involving money and corruption. However, due to having Ibrahim actively apart of all things a lot of it was alleviated and we had really positive experiences while establishing the school.

“We have hired teachers and school staff, appointed leadership, expanded our land already due to growing demand and exceeding capacity. All buildings and land development will be finalised by December, which is really exciting for us all.”

Tori’s support system in Australia also provided unwavering encouragement and guidance.

“I worked in a school in Melton for 5 years, learnt a lot of administration, welfare and curriculum wise and then when I moved over to Uganda I was very connected with schools due to my role in child protection and safety. I witnessed a lot here, learnt a lot and hope I can really create something special that has a child focused approach and elements that can really enhance a child’s life.

“My youth has probably really influenced

my approach. I had opportunities to work and experience life overseas in vulnerable communities. I went to good schools, had positive role models and influences growing up and my family have always been so incredibly supportive and encouraging of all my ambitious and crazy ideas. I have also grown-up watching family members make incredible differences within the community and hope that I can contribute something even one quarter of the size of what they have.”

Tori hopes her journey encourages young people, entrepreneurs and educators to make a difference in their own way.

“Ihavelearntalotoflessons–Noteveryone has good intentions, protect your heart but never close it, be wise, show confidence and take lessons as a big win,” she said.

“Don’t regret missed opportunities, everything happens for a reason so take the opportunities. Ask for help always, get advice andsupportandgrowyourcircleofsupporters who will be there for you when you need it.

“Obviously at the moment there are a lot of crisis happening both domestically and internationally. I understand that times are hard for people to support things that they don’t directly see. Just because it’s global, in a small community/village that people don’t know about or haven’t heard of doesn’t make the lives of those there any less important. Once we start looking into issues or areas that aren’t directly in front of us, perspectives and our lives truly change.”

To support the school go to gofundme. com/f/lotus-junior-school

Every child deserves a chance to thrive.

Their smile says it all. Tori Hirt with young Ugandan students.

Williamstown to host MND drive

By Cade Lucas

Not content with plunging people into ice baths, Neale Daniher will this week hit the road to raise money for research into Motor Neurone Disease (MND).

The eighth annual Daniher’s Drive departs from Williamstown on Thursday and despite suffering from the condition he calls “the beast” for more than a decade, Neale will join family, friends and members of the public in taking part in the fundraising event.

“It’s great to be back on the road again, and amazing to think this is the 8th version of our

wonderful Daniher’s Drive,” he said.

“The support of the regional communities has been an ongoing inspiration for our hundreds of participants, and we thank everyone who has donated or contributed in some way.”

After leaving Williamstown, the 250 member convoy will make its way through Bendigo, Warrnambool and Lorne before returning to Melbourne on Sunday, October 13.

The convoy will stop for a variety of fun events along the way and Neale said he couldn’t wait to get out there.

“As always, we know that many towns and schools have been preparing for our arrival and we are hugely appreciative of all their support - we look forward to plenty of great activities.”

The tour’s main fundraising activity is the Daniher’s Drive raffle where first prize is a Jayco caravan clad in its very own FightMND decals and colours valued at $65,000. The caravan comes adventure ready, with fully equipped kitchen, ensuite and living areas. The runner up will receive a gift voucher from The Card Network valued at $4,999.

Young Alexis is shooting for the stars

The Smart Fone Flick Festival (SF3) is entering its 10th year, but one Braybrook contestant was nowhere near being born when it started a decade ago.

Alexis Truong, 6, has entered the festival for the first time, with her project ‘The Bumper Car’ about a crazy family holiday.

Alexis’ father, Tez Vi Truong is an independent film director, and said he has been her number one fan in deciding to try her hand at a film of her own.

“The story came about from her first experience in a bumper car, which happened

duringafamilyholidayinShanghai,”hesaid.

“My wife and I encouraged her to tell this story when we found a writing and storytelling competition with a kids category.

“As I am a filmmaker, she decided she also wanted to tell the story in a visual format, and asked me to guide her in using the iPhone and in-app editing software.”

He said there have been some setbacks, but Alexis hadn’t given up on her goal, and now has the chance to win big.

“She did not get into the finals at the

competition, but we encouraged her to not give up, and continue to be hopeful with future submissions,” he continued.

Alexis shot the whole film with an iPhone, putting together a short film that shows off her experience from her perspective.

“I love telling stories. This is my first film and I hope you like it,” she said.

Alexis and Tez will travel to Sydney in mid-November for a shot at taking out the best kids film award.

Gerald Lynch

“If you’d like to do you bit, then please help us by purchasing a ticket,” said Neale of the raffle from which all proceeds will go towards FightMND, the charity he co-founded after being diagnosed with the disease in 2014. It’s hoped this year’s Daniher’s Drive will take the total amount Fight MND has raised for research into MND and care initiatives for sufferers, beyond $15 million.

The Daniher’s Drive raffle will be drawn Saturday, October 12 at 8pm.

Registrations to participate in this year’s drivearestillopenandcanbemadeat:https:// fightmnd.org.au/whats-on/danihers-drive/

Water grants now open

Melbourne Water has opened its Liveable Communities Liveable Waterways (LCLW) grant program to the Port Phillip and Westernport region,whichincludestheMaribyrnong and Werribee catchments.

With many rural headwater streams and creeks situated on private property, Melbourne Water emphasised that landholdersplayacrucialroleprotecting the health of these waterways.

By replanting vegetation, controlling weeds, and putting in fencing to exclude livestock, streamside landholders make important contributions to preserving the ecological balance.of waterways.

Melbourne Water says works to protect headwater streams and small rural creeks support the ecology of the waterways by protecting the water bugs that feed the smaller fish and support bigger fish further downstream.

Works to restore native vegetation alsosupportshabitatandfoodfornative animals and improves the stability of waterway embankments.

MelbourneWaterservicepartnerships manager Trent Griffiths stressed the necessity of stewardship around the Maribyrnong River.

“These are areas where there are a lot of streams and creeks on private property that are really important to the health of the Maribyrnong catchment overall.”

MelbourneWatersaysLCLWisavital partofhowcommunitiescancontribute to the Healthy Waterways Strategy, a 50-year vision for the health of waterways in the five major catchments across Port Phillip and Westernport region.

Information:https://www. melbournewater.com.au/services/ grants/liveable-communities-liveablewaterways-program

Williamstown to star as location for new television series

Williamstown is once again being used as the backdrop for a major screen production, with the new TV series ‘All Her Fault’ being filmed around the suburb.

Billed as a suburban thriller, All Her Fault is being filmed in Melbourne for US streaming giant Peacock and stars acclaimed Melbourne-based actress Sarah Snook (Succession,) and American actress and former child star, Dakota Fanning (Ripley, The Equalizer 3) .

Snook also acts as executive producer for the eight part series directed by Minkie Spiro (3BodyProblem,DowntonAbbey,)andbased on the bestselling novel of the same name by

Andrea Mara.

Shot primarily at Docklands Studios, the series is also being filmed at locations across Melbourne, including Williamstown beach, where local resident Peter Newbry came across it while out walking last month.

“Huge film location site at Williamstown Beach,” wrote Mr Newbury on Facebook.

“Tech crew sworn to silence but one did utter the word “Hollywood”, he added.

His post along with a photo showing a raft of white trailers, caravans and generators occupying the beach car park attracted plenty of responses, including one who said they’d also seen crews filming in nearby Victoria

Street and another said they’d received a flyer in their letterbox informing them of pending road closures due to filming.

Creative Victoria confirmed the set did belong to All Her Fault, which was attracted to Victoria through the state government’s Victorian Screen Incentive.

“All Her Fault is just one of the productions beingfilmedinVictoriathisyear–showcasing our incredible creative talent, highly skilled crews,uniquelocationsandworld-classscreen infrastructure,” said Creative Industries Minister Colin Brooks of the production which employs more than 500 crew and has created more than 2000 jobs in total.

Snook said she was excited to be working in Melbourne again.

“The industry we have here, across all departments of cast and crew, is world class. There’s always a can-do attitude,” she said. Where the Wild Things Are and The Dressmaker are among the Hollywood films with scenes shot in Williamstown, while the iconicfirstMadMaxfilmfeaturedpartsofthe inner-west including the Spotswood Pumping Station.

Much loved Australian television shows Blue Heelers and Sea Change were shot at numerous locations around Hobsons Bay. Cade Lucas

Alexis Truong, 6, has a short film entered in an upcoming smartphone film festival. (Damjan Janevski) 435251_01

Healthcare access a top concern

survey asking women to share their health concerns with us.

The campaign is stiving to address the systemic obstacles and barriers women must overcome when managing their health.

Access to healthcare and the costs associated with seeing a doctor are the top health concerns of women living in Melbourne’s western and northern suburbs, a Star Weekly survey has found.

As part of the Women’s Health Matters campaign, Star Weekly ran a six-week online

Survey respondents told us that their top health concerns were access to healthcare, affordable healthcare, healthcare providers’ lack of knowledge about women’s health issues, cervical cancer, breast cancer, menopause and incontinence.

Amassive76percentofsurveyrespondents said they travelled outside of their suburbs to access healthcare.

Women who took the survey told us they

travelledbetween20and50minutestoaccess healthcare.

The most common reasons were to access specialist care and to see a trusted GP.

The survey also found that women living in the northern and western suburbs are typically waiting at least one month to secure an appointment with a specialist.

Thirty-two per cent of respondents said theyhadseenaspecialistforawomen’shealth issue in the past 12 months, while 84 per cent had visited their GP for a women’s health issue in the past six months.

Women told us that most commonly, they had booked a GP appointment for concerns

about menopause and heavy periods, and to access cervical screening.

Sixty-eight per cent of women said they had accessed preventive health screening such as cervical and breast screening in the past year.

The results of Star Weekly’s survey mirror theoutcomesofastategovernment-runsurvey earlier this year, in which women and girls shared their experiences of feeling ignored or dismissed by clinicians who attributed their pain to psychological and personality factors, as well as culturally unsafe care. They also told the government about cases ofdelayeddiagnosis,andthehighcostofcare.

Women’s Health Matters Survey Results

Women’s health issues you have sought help for in the past months

Cervical screening

Menopause

PCOS

Mental health

Heavy periods

Infertility

Your top women’s health concerns

Access to healthcare

Affordable healthcare

Healthcare providers’ lack of knowledge about women’s health issues

Cervical cancer

Breast cancer

Menopause

Incontinence

Blood pressure

Self-care

Periods

you engaged with preventative health screening in the past 12 months?

Low iron Have you seen a GP for a women’s health issue in the past six months?

Endometriosis

Diabetes

Low iron

What you told us...

•76% travel outside of their suburb to access health care.

•The top reasons for travel were access to specialist services and because you liked the GP.

•Most people travel between 20 and 50 minutes to access health care.

•The average wait time for a specialist appointment was one month.

you seen a specialist for a women’s health issue in the past 12 months?

Anxiety proves more than a worry

By Cade Lucas

When people think of mental illness, depression is usually the first condition that springs to mind.

Yet being the best known doesn’t make it the most common.

Anxiety affects more Australians than any other mental health condition, with an estimated one in four people suffering from prolonged, intense and unexplained anxiousness at some point in their life.

If this comes as shock, wait until you see the gender breakdown.

While one in five Australian men will experienceanxietyintheirlifetime,forwomen it’s one in three.

Even mental illness has a gender bias.

And according to clinical psychologist, Dr Elizabeth Barson, it’s one that’s getting worse.

“For young women particularly between 16 and 24 there’s been a really dramatic increase in anxiety, like up to 40 per cent,” said Dr Barson of a trend that she’s quick to point out, pre-dates the COVID-19 pandemic.

Now the principal psychology educator at Western Health, Dr Barson has treated women withanxietyandothermentalhealthdisorders for 20 years.

She said while the causes of the increase among young women was unclear, the reasons why women were more prone to anxiety than men, wasn’t.

Biological factors, medical conditions, previous life experiences and current life stresses are considered the four main causes of anxiety and as Dr Barson broke each one down, the gender imbalance didn’t seem so surprising at all.

“One of the big things is the hormonal fluctuations that happen for women during their reproductive cycles. Anxiety is much

higher at periods when there are hormonal fluctuations.Allofthosehormonesareactually heavily involved in the brain,” she explained of a biological factor that overwhelmingly affects one sex more than the other.

As for life experience, Dr Barson said the prevalence of violence against women created a gender divide.

“Forty per cent of australian women will have experienced gender based violence after theageof15andthosewhohavearefourtimes more likely to experience anxiety, ” she said, adding that the economic and social factors causing current life stresses were also tilted against women.

“We also know that anxiety is much higher in the poorest one fifth of Australians than the richest one fifth and there’s a lot of gender based financial inequality for women too.”

Fortunately, there is some cause for optimism.

Women speaking up about their anxiety is much more socially accepted and much more common that it is for men and Dr Barson said once that happens, things can rapidly improve.

“The thing is there are very good treatments for anxiety,” she said.

“People who get evidenced based treatment are likely to get a big reduction in their symptomsandforsomepeopletheirsymptoms will go altogether.”

Those symptoms can include panic attacks, a racing heart, headaches and difficulty sleeping, while the most effective treatments are cognitive thereapy, medications (usually anti-depressants) and lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise.

Or as Dr Barson advised “the strongest evidence is for the combination of all three”.

For help and information with anxiety, visit Beyond Blue: https://www.beyondblue.org.au/ or headspace: https://headspace.org.au/

Western Health psychologist Dr Elizabeth Barson who specialises in treating women’s anxiety. (Damjan Janevski) 434001

Ready to play in Seddon

A long running playgroup in Seddon that closed during the Covid19 pandemic, is making a comeback.

On Monday, October 14, young children and their parents will converge on the local Uniting Church hall for the return of the Seddon Community Playgroup.

The Seddon Uniting Church hosted the playgroupfordecadesupuntiltheonsetofthe pandemic when it was forced to close.

Those who had long run the playgroup chose to retire and move away during the closure, meaning it never re-opened.

Until now.

Church member Deborah Pirr is among those behind the playgroup’s revival and explained why it was necessary.

“Seddon has a very large number of parents with babies and young children,” she said.

“It’s an area which has limited parks and facilities for children.”

Ms Pirr said the need for more playgroups in Seddon had been noticed by members of the church congregation who expressed a desire for it to return.

After four months of planning, that’s what will happen next week, with a small group of 15 children expected for the first session.

It’s a number that Ms Pirr anticipates will quickly grow, saying demand for more playgroups in the area had existed for a long time.

As for how the kids will be entertained, Ms Pirr said the previous operators had provided some tips and advice.

“Some of them have helped us with their insights into what worked for families,” she said.

ADVERTISEMENT

Gym destroyed Crew Fitness and Performance in Braybrook was destroyed by fire on Tuesday morning. Multiple calls were received at 3.19am for a car fire inside a factory on Cranwell Street. FRV appliances arrived on scene in six minutes, but the fire had already taken hold inside the two-storey building. Firefighting crews worked quickly to bring the fire under control at 3.38am before it could spread inside the complex and to adjoining buildings. The gymnasium sustained severe damage. The cause has been deemed suspicious and will be investigated by police.

Footscray fire

A Footscray apartment was severely damaged by fire on Thursday. Firefighters were called to a three-storey apartment complex in Hyde Street at about 10.30am on October 3, after reports of a fire on the top floor. Fire crews arrived to find the apartment fully engulfed in flames. The fire was contained to the single apartment and brought under control shortly before 11am. A crime scene was established and the cause of the blaze is still being investigated.

Provide outstanding services.

I know there are huge gaps in services across the West, not only from my own experience with a 2-year waitlist for gender affirming care, but the hundreds of conversations confirming that the provision of council services in the west is not nearly up to scratch.

It is important that local governments not only excel at the basics, like quality roads and footpaths, but also provide outstanding services.

Whilst Seddon houses a high proportion of young families, waitlists for Early Childhood Education (ECEC) are often more than a year. I am committed to increasing access to ECEC in the City of Maribyrnong.

The City of Maribyrnong also faces chronic outsourcing, which is not only bad for workers and their conditions, but financially inefficient, and subsequently bad for ratepayers. I plan to campaign for the insourcing of Aged Care, with a focus on improving it’s quality and continuity of care. In the long term I hope to transition other services back in house. I sincerely believe that Local government has a significant role to play in advocacy, councils are closest to the local community, and the most representative branch of government. In the West, there is enormous demand for specialist housing, evenly distributed and integrated into our communities rather than concentrated and segregated. There is a dire lack of outreach workers, and members of the Queer community face enormous challenges accessing specialist care.

Drawing upon my own experience, these policy areas are close to my heart, and I intend to drive a culture of fierce advocacy on the Maribyrnong City Council.

Seddon Uniting Church member Deborah Pirr is helping to restart a community playgroup at the church hall. (Damjan Janevski) 435662_02

Driving change and breaking barriers for 21 years

In 2003, Terry Bracks AM, founded Western Chances with a simple yet powerful vision: every young person deserves the chance to complete their education and fulfil their potential.

From its humble beginnings in 2003, Western Chances has grown into a powerful force for change in Melbourne’s western suburbs.

Over the last 21 years, the non-profit organisation has awarded over 11,000 educational scholarships, providing vital financial support to more than 4,000 motivated, talented students.Western Chances has partnered with 39 schools across Brimbank, Hobsons Bay, Maribyrnong, Melton, Moonee Valley, Wyndham and Geelong.

As 2024 marks a milestone, Western Chances’ 21-year celebration is not just about reflecting on the past—it’s about shaping the future. With the rising demand for scholarships and increasing financial pressures on families, they’re calling on the community for support.

An exciting way to contribute is by entering the raffle for a chance to win a brand-new 2024 Kia Stonic GT-Line, valued at $35,375. Generously donated by Hopper Motor Group, a true pillar of positivity in the west, all proceeds will directly fund scholarships for young people.

The raffle winner will be drawn live on October 24 and is open to anyone aged 18+ in Victoria, New South Wales, and Queensland. Winners will be contacted directly.

Tickets are available for $50 for one, $100 for three, and $200 for eight. By purchasing a ticket, you’re not only entering for a chance to win a car, but also helping to provide life-changing opportunities for young people in need.

visit the link - https://www.raffletix.com. au/?ref=vya76&sref=sey52gc6

As Western Chances celebrates 21 years of impact, the organisation stays committed to breaking financial barriers and providing young people with opportunities to succeed. You can donate

Girls just want to play

Like many local sporting clubs, Altona North Soccer Club is seeking to attract more female players into its ranks.

This season, Altona North fielded its first ever junior girls team with an under-12s side taking to the field.

With the inaugural season over, Altona North’s junior girls head coach Joe Fraietta said the club was now looking to the future.

“The club’s strategy is to create an inclusive and competitive girls platform and look to buildandpotentiallyexpandtheirprogramin season 2025,” Mr Fraietta said.

In order to do this, the club need more girls to sign up, with Mr Fraietta hoping a strong junior program will just be a starting point.

“Future expansion into senior female teams is highly desired,” he said.

“The club would aspire to create a pathway to senior women’s football once facilities would support such a vision. We are working closely with Football Victoria on our game changer strategies of which girls and womens football is a key pillar.”

AltonaNorth’sabilitytoexpanditswomen’s program is currently restricted by a lack of dedicated female facilities at its home ground at Duane Reserve in Brooklyn.

Mr Fraietta said he hoped the new junior girls program would lead to upgrades.

“We are convinced that the demand for girls and womens football will eventually encourage more broader strategies around gender inclusivity at all soccer facilities to cater for all participants,” he said.

Training for the new season has already begun.

Expressions on interest: https://form. jotform.com/222258695300859

Free travel for seniors

OlderVictoriansarebeingencouraged to get out and about next week, with the state government offering eight daysoffreepublictransportforseniors card holders.

Ageing Minister Ingrid Stitt and Public and Active Transport Minister Gabrielle Williams visited Flinders Street Station on Tuesday to make the announcement which is aimed at helping older people participate in the Victorian Seniors Festival from October 6 to 13.

DeliveredinpartnershipwithPublic Transport Victoria and V/Line, the free travel applies to all forms of public transport including trams, trains, buses and coach services in metro, regional and rural areas.

To qualify, commuters will need to carry their seniors card while travelling and touch on and off with their myki as usual – but myki cards won’t be charged.

“Theseeightdaysoffreetravelareall about celebrating our older Victorians and helping them to fully embrace the fantastic seniors festival events across the state,” Ms Stitt explained.

Ms Williams said the free travel wasn’t just for seniors living in Melbourne.

“This is the perfect chance for seniors to see new parts of our state, revisit favourite spots, and enjoy everything Victoria has on offer.“

Give Australian native flowers a chance to shine

I read recently about a Victorian flower farm called Ducks Landing Native Flower Farm that promoted the idea that native Australian flowers in season are an excellent choice for a bunch of flowers.

The flower farm is in Buninyong almost due south of Ballarat, about 11km away from the rural city. It is here at Ducks Landing Native Flower Farm that the magic of growing Australian natives happens. They encourage the philosophy of giving locally grown Australian native flowers rather than buying imported exotics.

Some people may decide that buying Australian natives is for them. Especially when you consider that the alternative might be to buy non-native flowers that have travelled from overseas or interstate to you. Not to mention, had umpteen chemicals sprayed on them before you receive them, to keep them fresh enough for you to be interested in buying them.

Now, to a Melbourne florist making it their goal to sell only Australian natives. According to its website, the Bush Florist, an online delivery model, is “a passion project by the team from Azalea Flowers in South Melbourne who after years of stocking the largest range of Native Flowers in Melbourne thought it was time to let these beauties take centre stage”.

Bush sources rare and unique blooms of Australian natives from independent growers around the country. They deliver flowers within metropolitan Melbourne. To more on Australian natives. Who’s

about what’s in flower right now within Melbourne and in the coming months of spring? Who would like to know more

a particular Australian native or two?

Austral Indigo tree or large shrub (Indigofera australis) is a plant belonging

to the legume family that is in flower right now. It will flower throughout spring. It is an evergreen flowering Australian native that grows up to two metres. The Austral Indigo tree is native to every state of Australia. So, of course, they grow well in Melbourne too. In fact, they grow in poor soils in almost any climate here in Australia.

The Austral Indigo tree has lovely pink or purple flowers that bring lots of beneficial insects into the garden. It’s probably best to enjoy the flowers on the tree as they lose their vibrancy quickly in a vase of water. The flowers will be on the tree from early to late spring as long as the air remains cool.

One of the smart things about this plant is that it helps nearby plants in the garden by increasing the nitrogen levels in the soil. One of the many smart things about Australian Aboriginal people is that they used the crushed leaves of Austral Indigo to add them to water to kill or stun fish, like eels and Murray cod.

So, what native Australian flowers can people buy this spring? I’d recommend banksias in these early days of spring. They can have beautiful flowers from autumn through to spring. This is when many banksia species will be covered in nectar rich flower spikes. Banksia ericifolia, a dwarf form of banksia, is an early flowering species that flowers from throughout three out of four seasons with attractive red flowers that transition into orange shades.

Maybe you’d like to be growing your own Australian natives to pick bunches of flowers from. Maybe you’re already growing them. Maybe you’d like to buy Australian native flowers for yourself or to gift them onto someone else. If you’re able to get out and about, see if you can spot some flowering Australian natives around Melbourne and beyond this spring. Go well in your Australian native experimentations and appreciations.

Cade Lucas

Altona North SC junior girls head coach Joe Fraietta is looking for more players to join the club’s underage teams. (Damjan Janevski) 431078_01

Banksias look eye-catching in a native floral arrangement.

Seniors celebrations begin with the Rivervue Passport

October is here, and that means it’s time to dive into the delightful Rivervue Passport events!

This Seniors’ Month, Rivervue is rolling out the red carpet from October 7 to 23, inviting anyone over 50 to join in their fabulous series of free activities that promise to inspire, connect, and entertain.

Whether you’re looking to stay active, meet new friends, or just have a blast, there’s something for everyone! Fancy a relaxing tai chi session? Ready to dance your heart out? Feeling crafty? Or perhaps you’d enjoy a cozy coffee with new companions? With over 50 free events on the calendar, you won’t want to miss a single moment!

The Rivervue Retirement Village kicked off the festivities with a morning melodies performance by the vibrant Pat Perri, who wowed the crowd on Monday morning. Attendees savoured a delicious brunch at the Rivervue Community Centre, setting the perfect tone for a month filled with joy and laughter.

So, why not get in on the fun? Join the residents for a round of table tennis, unleash your creativity with some crafting, or simply enjoy the company of fellow residents at HappyHour.Everyeventyouattendearnsyou a ticket for a fantastic prize draw, including a $1000 Travel Voucher. So, get down to Rivervue,themoreyoujoinin,thebetteryour chances to win!

And mark your calendars for a special event on Wednesday, October 23, at 11:30 AM— Beats and Bubbles on the Balcony! Get ready to be whisked away by Arnie Grives as this talented solo artist treat everyone to tunes from the 50s, 60s, and 70s. Enjoy a delicious barbecue and sip on a glass of bubbly while soaking up the stunning river views. It’s the perfect way to unwind and celebrate the joys of senior living. Spaces are limited for these exciting events, so don’t delay! RSVP today by calling 1300

298 439 or visit https://www.rivervue.com.au/ newsevents/event for the full program. Come experience the joy and community spirit at

Rivervue, and discover why our residents say, “Life Begins at Rivervue”. You won’t want to miss a second!

Beats & Bubbles on the Balcony

Wednesday 23rd October, 11.30am

Come along for an unforgettable performance by Arnie Grives. This talented solo artist will treat the audience to a musical time warp, singing tunes from the 50's, 60's & 70's.

All while enjoying a glass of bubbles and a barbeque on the balcony of Rivervue, taking in the breathtaking views of the Maribyrnong River.

This will be true celebration of retirement, senior living and all Rivervue has to offer. Bring a friend and join us for an unforgettable day! RSVP today! Call 1300 298 439.

Whether you're looking to

At the grand age of 94 Betty Boadle is a force of nature

Meet Betty Boadle, who at the age of 94 still walks 4km a day, teaches piano lessons, performs at retirement villages and plays at Sunday mass at an aged care community.

Betty is also a keen gardener and her roses are her pride and joy! However, she’s decided to rein in her enthusiasm a little when it comes to protecting her silver beets from marauding magpies. Last year she chased a couple of magpies down the road, and slipped in the gutter and hurt her arm.

“On the bright side I did scare them away though,” she laughs. The injury didn’t stop her from playing the piano.

“It’s like occupational therapy for me,” she laughs.

“I don’t have any arthritis anywhere.”

Her quick wit and irrepressible sense of humour peppers all her conversations – she’s one of those people who sparkles.

The indomitable force of nature gets up at 6.30am every day and goes for a morning and an afternoon power-walk – come rain, wind and even sleet.

She was raised tough. She helped run the family farm at the age of ten, and when she married, raised eight children while holding down jobs. At the age of 50, Betty completed a Graduate Diploma of Religious Education and taughtatschoolsaswellasgivingprivatemusic lessons.

However, even Betty recognises she needs a little help to live safely and well at home. She has a government-funded home care package through Uniting AgeWell and receives help around the house and the garden, has meals delivered, receives podiatry services and will soon get a taxi card.

Betty can’t speak highly enough of Uniting AgeWellandisgratefultothestafffordoingall thepaperworkinvolvedwithbeingassessedand getting started with her home care package.

Help at home

Get assistance with personal and clinical care, household chores, assistive technology and transport

Community support and wellbeing

Remain connected with social groups, outings, and carer services

Enjoy

Residential care

Specialist

Betty Boadle. (Supplied)

Five things to consider when joining a retirement village

Joining a retirement village or other form of seniors housing is a significant decision, marking the beginning of a new chapter filled with opportunities. Villages can provide a fun and fulfilling lifestyle, safety and security all within a community environment. However, with so many great options available, it is essential to consider what each village offers to ensure it meets your needs and preferences. Here are five key factors from Aged and Community Care Providers Association (ACCPA) CEO Tom Symondson to keep in mind when selecting the right village for you.

Amenities / facilities

Consider what amenities and facilities are important to you in a retirement village. Many villages offer recreational options such as swimming pools, gyms and bowling greens. On-site services such as hair salons, libraries and cafes can add convenience and enhance the community atmosphere. Identify which amenities are most important to you and ensure the village you choose meets those needs. Many new developments and service modelshaveemergedandgrowninpopularity, such as Land Lease Communities. These communities are known for their access to premium amenities.

Health and support services

Healthcare and support services may be essential to you as you age. Investigate the care services provided within the village. With the increasing popularity of home care in retirement village settings, it is worth exploring whether the village operates its own home care services or partners with reputable third-party providers to deliver these services. Some villages have co-located facilities with residential aged care. This can ensure a seamless transition if you care needs change

over time. This integrated approach can ensure peace of mind and allows you to age in place.

Financial considerations

A big hurdle for downsizers is the confusion around exit fees, which are standard in retirement villages. The exit fee is simply the ‘lease payment’ for the period of time you spend at the village. Most states in Australia now provide village comparison documents to help prospective residents make informed decisions and compare different villages based on standardised criteria, making it

easier to understand the financial obligations and benefits each village offers?. For those considering other options such as land lease communities, Commonwealth rental support may be available to help offset rental fees. It is essential to do thorough research and figure out what is best for you, considering both the financial implications and the lifestyle benefits each option provides.

Sense of community

The sense of community and overall culture of the village can significantly impact your

quality of life. Spend time visiting the village, talking to current residents and getting a feel for the spirit and atmosphere. Research increasingly shows that retirement living is associated with a positive quality of life, bringing significant benefits such as a sense of safety, companionship and access to support. This supportive community environment can enhance emotional well-being and provide a network of friends and neighbours who share similar interests andexperiences,makingyourretirementyears more fulfilling and enjoyable.

Accreditation

Accreditation is a crucial factor in evaluating the quality of a village. It not only ensures compliance with industry standards but also highlights areas for continuous improvement. The Australian Retirement Village Accreditation Scheme (ARVAS) is a comprehensive accreditation program that assesses various aspects of village operations, including governance, communication, corporate systems and service delivery. Achieving ARVAS accreditation indicates that a village is committed to maintaining high standards and prioritising resident well-being. When choosing a retirement village, consider its ARVAS accreditation status, as it reflects the village’s dedication to providing a high-quality, supportive and well-managed living environment?.

Choosing the right retirement village or seniors housing option involves careful consideration of various factors to ensure it alignswithyourlifestyle,healthneeds,financial situation, accommodation preferences and social desires. Everyone is different, so there is no wrong or right answer - what works for one person may not work for another

With a core purpose of making lives better, Nurse Next Door Home Care Services Werribee is transforming how local residents in Wyndham will experience in home care as they enter their golden years.

Founded by long-time residents Eugene Martin and Shalini George, Nurse Next Door Werribee aims to empower individuals to lead a life filled with Positivity, Possibility and Purpose, offering personalised support for clients and their families.

With their deep ties to the local area and over 15 years of community involvement, Eugene and Shalini bring a blend of heartfelt commitment and professional expertise to everything they do.

Eugene’s passion for community support is matched by Shalini’s extensive healthcare experience as a registered nurse. Together, they lead a team devoted to providing compassionate care that allows older Australians to continue living comfortably and independently in their own homes, on their own terms. Whether it’s help with daily activities, specialist dementia care, or more complex nursing needs, their services are designed to be as flexible as they are reliable.

Nurse Next Door Werribee’s approach is underpinned by their philosophy of care known as ‘Happier Ageing’. Shalini and Eugene believe, deeply, that ageing should be celebrated and people shouldn’t have to let go of the activities and passions that bring them joy as they get older.

With tailored care plans, the ‘Bold Pink’ team focus on helping older Australians reconnectwithhobbiesandinterests,bringing meaning and purpose back into daily life.

Every caregiver and nurse is carefully matched with clients to ensure the best possible support, honouring the company’s

commitment to “The Perfect Match”. This approach fosters genuine connections between clients and care teams, ensuring that each visit is not only supportive

but meaningful. For those seeking reliable, client directed care in the Wyndham community, Nurse Next Door Werribee is here to help.

Eugene Martin and Shalini George.

The bargain trap with hearing aids: online vs. audiologist

In a world filled with tempting online deals, it’s crucial to approach certain purchases with caution.

Take hearing aids, for example – tiny devices with the power to transform lives. While the allure of a cheaper online option might seem appealing, the risks associated with such purchases can’t be ignored. With all medical devices, it’s important to make an informed choice when prioritising your long-term hearing health.

It’s easy to purchase shoes, clothes, glasses and even prescription medication online, providing you know your size or have a prescription. Audiologist Amanda from Active Audiology argues, “Unfortunately, hearing aids don’t work that way. The success of these tiny personalised medical devices hinges on proper fitting and adjustments tailored to your unique hearing needs.”

“Even the exact same hearing device can produce a different hearing quality based on how experienced the audiologist is. Getting the ‘right hearing aid’ is therefore only half the solution. The other half is finding the right expert to get the adjustments right,” says Amanda.

Advantages of a qualified audiologist

 Personalised Care: Our audiologists at Active Audiology take the time to understand your lifestyle needs, ensuring that the chosen hearing aid aligns with your daily activities. We’ll narrow it down to a device or two, as well as specific technology that will suit your lifestyle.

 Professional Fitting: Hearing aids are not a one-size-fits-all solution. There is no such thing as a ‘stock standard’ hearing aid for anyone. Experts from Active Audiology conduct thorough assessments to determine the best fit for your ears, ensuring optimal comfort and performance.

 Ongoing Support: The relationship doesn’t end with the purchase. Audiologists provide ongoing support, ensuring your hearing aids are adjusted and fine-tuned as your needs change over time. It’s common for a new wearer to need micro-adjustments to accommodate for personal lifestyle activities, such as watching your regular TV programs or going to your favourite restaurants.

“At Active Audiology we have a great aftercare service where the first 12 months of appointments have no charge. That first year is crucial in getting the settings right and making sure that you are happy”, shares Amanda Risks of online purchases

 Is it an Actual Hearing Aid?: If a hearing aid is “cheap”, it may not be a hearing aid

and rather be a different gadget called an Amplifier. These look like hearing aids, but are simply gadgets that increase the volume on everything.

“I had a young patient who came to me frustrated, as he thought he had bought a cheap hearing aid. It made everything very loudanddidn’thelphimhearconversationsat all.Ihadtoexplainthatitwasn’tahearingaid, and rather an amplifier,” explains Amanda.  Improper Fit: Generic online purchases may not provide the proper fit, leading to discomfort and potential damage to your ears. There are over 10 reputable hearing aid manufacturers who have about 50 models under each brand. Technology is always improving and new models are being released annually. Only an experienced audiologist can determine what is going to work best for your hearing loss and lifestyle.

 Limited support: Online purchases often lack the ongoing support necessary for the optimal performance of your hearing aids. Even with premium hearing devices, you may need minor repairs or adjustments. This can be difficult if there is no ‘real person’ to assist you.

When it comes to hearing aids, it’s not just about the device; it’s about your quality of life. Don’t compromise your hearing health for a quick bargain – opt for expertise, care, and a future filled with confidence and support wheneveryouneedforyourhearing.AtActive Audiology, we’re here to help you hear what matters. It’s fuss free with guaranteed support for your entire hearing journey with us. All our clinics offer a no obligation hearing aid discussion appointment. Book today on 1300 364 007. Active Audiology is at 17 Harrington Square, Altona. Go to www.activeaudiology. com.au

Audiologist Amanda.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

WANT YOUR EVENT LISTED? Community Calendar is made available free of charge to not-for-profit organisations to keep the public informed of special events and activities. Send item details to Star Weekly Community Calendar, Corner Thomsons Road and Keilor Park Drive, Keilor Park, 3042, or email to westeditorial@starweekly.com.au by 9am Wednesday the week prior to publication

Little athletics

Williamstown Little Athletics track and field season for ages 5-16 begins on Saturday October 12. A free two-week trial is available to new members. Register at LAVic.com.au, or for more details come along to the information session at the Newport Athletics Track on Wednesday October 9 at 7pm.

Discover sailing day

Come and give sailing a try! All welcome, no experience required. This is a family friendly event and life jackets will be provided. The bar and restaurant will be open so come along and make a day of it on Sunday 27 October, 10am – 2pm at the Royal Yacht Club of Victoria, 120 Nelson Place, Williamstown.

 www.rycv.com.au or https://www. revolutionise.com.au/rycv/events/259140

2nd Footscray Scouts 100th anniversary

Past members and supporters of the 2nd Footscray Scout Group are warmly invited to a fun and entertaining evening to celebrate the group’s centenary year. Come and reminisce about the good old days and discover the exciting developments ahead as 2nd Footscray looks forward to the next 100 years! The dinner will be held on Saturday October 12 at the Riverside Kitchen and Bar, 75 Newsom Street, Ascot Vale.

 Details and tickets, https://www. trybooking.com/CTPWK

Halloween Festival

Get ready for an unforgettable day of family fun and community spirit at the much-anticipated Halloween Festival in Altona Meadows on Sunday October 27. Organised entirely by dedicated volunteers, this fourth-annual event takes place from 2-7pm at the AB Shaw Reserve in Hall Avenue, Altona Meadows. Entry is absolutely free and everyone is invited to enjoy the vibrant onstage entertainment throughout the afternoon.

 Jodie Martin, 0418 464 524 or altonameadowsca@gmail.com

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 6.30 dinner meeting. The club has some great speakers and we need new, energetic and enthusiastic members who want to make a difference in the community and join our fun club.

 www.rotarypointgellibrand.com. au or Facebook: www.facebook.com/ pointgellibrandrotary, or Pam, 0418 347 691, or rotarypointgellibrand@gmail.com

Garden club

The Hobson’s Bay Garden Club is looking for new members. All new members who are keen gardeners and looking to make new friendships are welcome to join. Meeting consists of listening to guest speakers, taking part in the trading table, and most importantly enjoying afternoon tea while doing so. The group meets on the third Monday of the month at the Youth Hall on the corner of Civic Parade and Sugar Gum Drive at 1pm. The annual spring show will be held on Monday, October 21 at 1pm at the hall. All Welcome.

 Kay, 0411 793 534

2024 U3A art exhibition

This year marks the third year of the U3A Hobsons Bay/Williamstown Art Exhibition from October 15-30. The exhibition brings together a number of art groups within U3A, including a drawing group, two painting groups and an abstract art discussion group. These groups are part of U3A

Hobsons Bay/Williamstown which provides educational, creative and leisure activities for seniors. The artworks produced by the art groups are varied, driven mostly by individual’s choice and interest. As well as producing impressive artworks, the groups share ideas, critique each other’s work and socialize. There are lots of laughs and new friendships created. U3A always welcomes new members of all ages and abilities (including absolute beginners). As they say, you are never too old to start a new activity!

 https://u3ahbwilli.org.au/memberships/ or 0437 622 602 or info@u3ahbwilli.org.au

Stony Creek Music Festival

Rebecca Barnard and Shane O’Mara and some of the finest musos in the country will entertain with classic Rolling Stones hits. The day’s line up includes The Black Curtains, Rosaries, Bowlos, and Introducing Delsinki and the Quiet Coachman. The day will also feature Belle the princess on roller skates, face painting and lots of yummy food, and so much more. It’s a family day so bring a picnic. Saturday 19 October, from 1-6pm at McNish Reserve, Court Street,Yarraville.

 Michael Clarke, 0434 473 734

Laverton Bowls Club

Experience the fun and skill of lawn bowls, a game which is suitable for all ages. Laverton Bowls Club is recruiting new members, so if you are looking for a friendly atmosphere and the opportunity to bowl both socially or at pennant level Laverton is the place to be. Come to the club on Tuesday or Thursday mornings for practise beginning at 10am. All welcome at 77-87 Hall Street, Altona Meadows.

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.

 www.willinwimmin.org.au or email 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, up-skilling and more in a prep for employment course. Register today. At 43 Mason Street, Newport.  9391 8504, or outlets@outletsco-op. com.au

Mouth Organ Band

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

 Heather, 9399 2190 or ymob1933@ yahoo.com.au

Alcoholics Anonymous

Regular meetings of Alcoholics Anonymous are held at St Andrew’s Church Hall, Williamstown, Wednesdays at 7pm, and Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Newport, Thursdays at 6.30pm and Saturdays at 8.30am. All welcome including friends and family of people with drinking problems.  1300 22 22 22, or www.aatimes.org.au

Wednesday walking group

 9369 1034 or secretary@lavertonbowls. com.au

100 years of Barkly Street Barkly Street Uniting Cricket Club is preparing to celebrate 100 years this 2024-25 cricket season. The club is keen to hear from any “Streeters” (past players, family and friends of the club) who can share their memories.

 admin@barklystreetcc.org

Musicians welcome

Do you play any percussion, brass or woodwind instruments? The Hobsons Bay City Band is seeking musicians to join their community band. Please note that rehearsals are held under the directorship of Wayne Bowden OAM every Monday evening from 7.30pm at the Spotswood South Kingsville RSL, 59 The Avenue, Spotswood.

 Hannah Prouse, hbcityband@gmail.com or URL www.hbcb.org.au

Fiddle group

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

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

The Williamstown Community Centre offers a regular Wednesday walking group that walks the local area, 10.15-11am. New members are welcome. This activity is free and includes morning tea.  9397 6168

Williamstown Craft Market

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

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

Altona Day View Club

The Altona Day View Club meets on the third Wednesday each Month at 11am, at the Altona RSL 31 Sargood Street., Altona.  Jan, 0419 159 783

Woodcarving workshop

The woodcarving workshop meets on Tuesdays at 9.30am-noon at Hobsons Bay Men’s Shed, 280 Queens Street, Altona. All levels of ability in this ancient, international craft are welcome, women included, starter tools and timber available.

 jah2802rot@gmail.com

Community Jumble Sale Saturday, November 9, 9am – 4pm at Pilgrim Uniting Church hall, cnr Bayview Road and Montague Street, Yarraville. Entry from Montague Street. Barbeque, music and 30 tables of pre-loved games, books, clothes, plants and homewares.

 Ros Harris, 0401 932 414

This week’s photographer’s choice was of a possum at the Junior Ranger School Holiday Program. (Damjan Janevski) 434391_01

The Stones to rock Stony Creek

With a name like Stony Creek Music Festival, it was only a matter of time before the music of the Rolling Stones would be featured.

The tenth anniversary edition of the Yarraville festival will be dedicated to music of Mick and Keith and company when it takes place on October 19 at McNish Reserve.

Yarraville locals and festival stalwarts Rebecca Barnard and Shane O’Mara will be joined by some of the country’s best musicians in playing Rolling Stones hits, while other acts including the The Black Curtains, Rosaries, Bowlos,andDelsinkiandtheQuietCoachman are also part of the line up.

“Absolutely,” said festival co-coordinator

Janine Wiggins when asked if the day was a homage to the Stones, before adding that it was much more than that too.

“Overallthefestivalisverymuchacelebration of our community who otherwise wouldn’t come together under normal circumstances,” said Ms Wiggins who has been involved in running the event since its inception.

“This year it’s the Rolling Stones, last year it wasTomPetty.We’vehadthePaintersDockers perform,” she said, listing off a string of local artist’s who graced the festival stage.

But of all the artists involved through the years, Ms Wiggins said Barnard and O’Mara were by far the most important.

“Rebecca Barnaard has been the absolute driverbehindthisandShaneO’Mara.Without Rebecca and Shane the festival quite simply wouldn’t take place.”

Thefamilyfriendlyfestivalrunsfrom1pmto 6pm on Saturday October 19.

Entry is free and food is available, while picnics are also encouraged.

Cade Lucas

Stony Creek Music Festival musicians and organisers Michael Clarke, Mary Dowling, Rebecca Bernard, Janine Wiggins and Harry O’Mara. (Damjan Janevski) 434712_04

Exhibition echoes nature’s beauty

A new art exhibition in Melton explores balance, harmony, and rhythm in the natural world through mixed media artworks.

Echoes of Wild, by Caroline Springs local Ana Hanson, is open for viewing at the Melton Council Civic Centre from now until January 31 next year.

The use of pyrography, acrylics, and oils on wood panels create bold patterns and vibrant colours to embody a blend of modernity and tradition.

Ms Hanson said striking the balance was a “process of exploration.”

“I’ve been interested in incorporating unexpected uses of media; things you wouldn’t think of putting together like wood burning and aerosol,” she said. “I’ll go in with a rough plan but things will take an unexpected course… a lot of it is an adventure.

“In more recent years… I’ve been interested in finding ways to honour the tradition of landscape art but approach it in a way that is informed by the modern world.”

Mostofthepiecesweredevelopedover2024, but no matter how much time it took to make them, they always stuck with Ms Hanson

outside of the studio.

“A lot of heart and soul goes into the art –when I’m not making something it lives in my mind. It’s like a good book, you still think about it when you are not reading and an art project is exactly the same.”

Ms Hanson’s favourite piece is ‘Sunshine of the Valley’, which was inspired by nearby Organ Pipes National Park.

“It’s a relatively simple piece but I feel like it captures the vibrancy of modern style… I’ve always loved nature too.”

Eddie Russell

Join Western United for picnic on the pitch

Western United is welcoming one and all to Ironbark Fields this Saturday, October 12 for the inaugural Picnic At The Pitch family day.

The free event will kick off at 11am with the men’s squad playing in a intra-club friendly, after which the green and black community willhavethechancetomeetA-Leaguesplayers, watch on-stage performances and connect with the football community.

There will also be an exclusive membership offer available only to fans that attend the family day, so the club encourages everyone to visit the membership stand.

Kids can enjoy football inflatables, face painting, henna tattoos and the Wyndham Street Surfer Van, while bigger kids can hang out among market stalls, DJs and stage performances from the likes of Pataka Dance Group, Karen Community Dance Group,

Good News Luthern College, Club Iteka and Brazilian Drummers. Fans will be given one of the first opportunities to view the club’s inner sanctum with behind-the-scenes tours of Ironbark,

venturing into the change rooms and tunnels the players walk through every day. Therewillbeplentyofopportunitytoengage with the communities that are the beating heart of football in the west, with a number of junior clubs and Walking Football 4 Health Victoria setting up stalls on the day.

You can also view and pre-order the 2024/25 kits and pick up your latest bits of Western United gear from the merchandise van as well as free giveaways and lots more all throughout the afternoon.

A photo booth and food trucks will ensure happy memories will be captured and bellies won’t leave empty.

Registration: https://www.intix.com.au/ event/western-united-family-day?lid=9gbtlcx 93c6s

Jaidyn Kennedy

Lemony S Puppet Theatre is set to captivate audiences with its innovative production’Ada,Asmin&TheAnalytical Engine’ running for two exclusive performances at Bowery Theatre in St Albans as part of the Melbourne Fringe Festival.

This enchanting tale intertwines the life of Ada Lovelace, the pioneering Victorian mathematician, with the struggles of Asmin, a newly-arrived Turkish refugee navigating remote learning during challenging times.

ThestoryunfoldsasAsminencounters amagicalcatnamedMrsPuff,whoguides herthroughthewondersofcyberspaceto connect with Ada across time.

This unique collaboration, featuring young performers Ada Williams Kriegler as Ada Lovelace and Asmida Aslan as Asmin, explores vital themes of education rights for girls and the empowering shifts that occur when young women pursue their dreams.

Drawingfromreal-lifeexperiences,the narrative sheds light on the challenges faced by girls denied an education worldwide, with significant input from Asmida and her family.

The production also incorporates mathematics crafted by Asmida’s father, Deniz Aslan, reflecting real-world academic struggles.

In addition to the stage performance, a companion documentary titled ’Purple Violets’ further pushes these themes, showcasingagirls’soccerteaminEastern Turkey and the ongoing struggles for gender equality in education.

Audiences aged seven and above can catch the show at the Bowery Theatre in St Albans this weekend.

It will run on Saturday, October 12 from 3pm to 4pm, and Sunday, October 13 from 11am to 12pm.

Tickets: melbournefringe.com.au/ event/ada-asmin-the-analytical-engine/ Gerald Lynch

Players will be on hand to sign autographs. (Ljubica Vrankovic)_417037_10

Asmida Aslan, Ada Williams Kriegler, and Mrs Puffs. (Phil Erbacher)

Artist Ana Hanson. (Damjan Janevski) 435242_01

SPORTS QUIZ

1. How many runs did Australian cricketer Travis Head score in the opening match of the ODI series against England?

2. How many non-Victorian teams play in the AFL?

3. In which year did Australia last win the Davis Cup?

4. How many votes did Patrick Cripps poll in his record-breaking Brownlow Medal win?

5. How many times has popular Supercars driver Craig Lowndes won the Bathurst 1000?

6. Which Victorian bowler took a remarkable 7/12 in a recent domestic One-Day Cup match against Tasmania?

The Wallabies lost by how many points in a close finish against the All Blacks in the first Bledisloe Cup Test?

The Australian Diamonds defeated which team 2-1 in a recent netball series?

Who is the only NRL player to have played over 400 career games?

In which year did current title-leaders McLaren last win the Formula 1 Constructors’ Championship?

By how many points did Brisbane defeat Sydney in the 2024 AFL Grand Final?

How old is 2024 AFL

Norm Smith medallist Will Ashcroft?

13. Which Formula 1 driver was recently replaced by Liam Lawson in the RB Formula One Team?

14. Andrew McQualter was recently named as coach of which AFL team?

15. The Sydney Roosters and which other team are taking part in the 2024 NRL Women’s Grand Final?

16. Which legendary Australian singer joined Katy Perry as part of this year’s AFL Grand Final pre-game entertainment?

17. Roosters prop Nelson Asofa-Solomona will miss the NRL Grand Final after a failed judiciary appeal saw his ban extended to how many matches?

18. WADA recently appealed the decision to clear which tennis star of doping?

19. Former NBA player Montrezl Harrell is currently playing as an import for which NBL team?

20. NBA star Karl-Anthony Towns was recently traded to which team?

21. Tara Davis-Woodhall and her partner Hunter went viral for their celebration after she won gold in what event at the Paris Olympics?

22. And which event did Hunter then win gold in at the 2024 Paralympics?

23. Dacron, Kevlar and Vectran are all materials used in modern versions of what sport-related weapon?

24. Travis Kelce will make his acting debut in an upcoming Ryan Murphy show titled what?

25. How many players are on each team in a futsal match?

26. What part of an AFL uniform shares its name with a breed of dairy cattle?

27. The GWS Giants mascot G-Man has what colour hair?

28. Which beverage company sponsors teams in soccer, ice hockey, Formula 1 and NASCAR?

29. Iconic soccer player Mia Hamm won how many FIFA World Cup championships in her career?

30. And in total how many World Cup tournaments did she compete in?

Tara Davis-Woodhall

To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each

ACROSS

1 Ordering off the menu (1,2,5)

5 Southern European country (6)

10 Happen (5)

11 Not inspected (9)

12 Computer network linking newsgroups (6)

13 Benchwarmer (7)

14 Accumulated (8)

15 Sharp cutting utensils (6)

18 Sick (6)

20 Mixture (8)

21 Trap, catch (7)

24 Creations (6)

27 Assailant (9)

28 US city (5)

29 Tips (6)

30 Hailing from Tyrol (8)

DOWN

1 On (4)

2 Inherited from one’s family (9)

3 Biblical character (5)

4 Members of a trust (8)

6 1970s band, – Lake and Palmer (7)

7 Bread-maker (5)

8 Spoke to (9)

9 Cicatrice (4)

14 Neighbour of Mexico (9)

16 Grant (9)

17 North Italian region (8)

19 Tidiest (7)

22 Change smoothly from one section to another (5)

23 Cardinal direction (4)

25 Ladies’ man (5)

26 Conceal (4)

may only be used

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

1 Nuuk is the capital city of which country?

2 Which Dutch explorer was the first known European to reach New Zealand?

3 Shirley Temple’s trademark song OntheGoodShip Lollipop was from which film?

4 The rings of Saturn are primarily composed of what?

5 ‘As-salamu alaykum’ is a spoken greeting in what language?

6 Mount Macedon is

7

8 For which movie did Gary Oldman (pictured) win the Academy Award for Best Actor?

9 Turpentine is created by distilling what?

10 What is tyrotoxism?

No. 207

No. 206

Practical, stylish and easy to drive

By Alistair Kennedy, Marque Motoring

Mitsubishi ASX is the smallest vehicle in the company’s four-model SUV range beneath the Eclipse Cross, Outlander and Pajero Sport.

ASX (the acronym stands for Active Sports Crossover, not Australian Stock Exchange) has been around since 2010 and competes against a host of rivals in the small SUV category including Hyundai Kona, Mazda CX-30, Kia Seltos, Subaru XV, Toyota C-HR and the class sales leading MG ZS.

Despite being largely unchanged throughout the decade, ASX has been a star performer for Mitsubishi thanks to a combination of sensible design, functionality and sharp pricing.

The ASX comes with the choice of six variants: GS, ES, MR, LS, GSR and Exceed. The first four are powered by a 2.0-litre petrol engine, while the GSR and Exceed step up to 2.4 litres. GS comes with the choice of manual or CVT automatic transmission, all others are auto only.

Buyers looking for a used ASX will get the option of diesel power and/or all-wheel drive but the current model only has petrol and front-wheel drive.

Prices range from $24,490 for a manual GS though to $35,240 for the Exceed.

Styling

Recent upgrades have given ASX a much bolder look especially with the latest version of the Mitsubishi Dynamic Shield front end. That and other tweaks have turned it into one of the best-looking vehicles in its class.

Wheels range from 16-inch steel with the GS to different styles of 18-inch alloys in the other variants.

LED headlights and daytime running lights are standard on all models with ES and above adding LED fog lights.

OurtestvehiclewastheESmodelwithanew Street accessory pack.

The pack adds a large black front spoiler, front and rear skid plates in black with red highlights, black tailgate protector, black exteriordoorhandlecovers,stainlesssteeldoor scuff plates and ‘Street’ decals.

Interior

The dashboard of the ASX reflects the vehicle’s age with a small 8-inch touchscreen at the centre rather than the larger sweeping screens that are now in fashion. However, as was the case with the ignition key, we don’t mind that at all. The screen is angled towards the driver and within easy reach.

Importantly, the aircon and audio controls are large knobs located below the screen that can be operated with minimal driver distraction.

Rear seat legroom is pretty good for all but more than six-foot passengers who will need the usual compromise with those in front. Five can be carried but it’s better if the three in the back are kids.

There’s good headroom in all seats, although that could be an issue with the panoramic sunroof in the top-of-the-range Exceed.

Models up to the LS have fabric seat trim. The GSR gets microsuede trim and synthetic leather bolster with Exceed having powered and heated leather seats.

The gear shifter in ES Street is trimmed in aluminium and leather.

Bootspaceis393litreswiththerearseatbacks in place.

Engines/transmissions

Going against the present trend towards turbocharging,bothASXenginesarenaturally aspirated.

The GS, ES, MR and LS get a 2.0-litre powerplant with outputs of 110 kW and 197 Nm at 4200 revs. The GSR and Exceed come with a 2.4-litre engine with power of 123 kW and torque of 222 Nm at 4100 rpm.

The GS manual has five speeds. All other models have continuously variable automatic transmission.

Safety

Standard safety features across the ASX range include seven airbags, enhanced ABS brakes, emergency stop signal, forward collision mitigation,activestabilityandtractioncontrol, hill start assist, rear view camera, and two Isofix child seat anchors.

The entry-level ES can be ordered with an ADAS package which adds lane departure warning; automatic dusk sensing headlights; blind spot warning; lane change assist; and rear cross traffic alert. These features are not available in the MR but are standard in the LS, GSR and Exceed.

Infotainment

All variants have an eight-inch touchscreen system in the top centre of the dashboard. It’s clear and easy to read with only minimal distraction needed to operate. There’s also voice activation.

Bluetooth pairing is fast and intuitive and there’s smartphone mirroring through wired Apple CarPlay or Android Auto along with DAB digital radio where available.

The Exceed gets a nine-speaker Rockford Fosgate premium sound system as well as integrated satellite navigation. Other models get four- or six-speaker generic audio.

TherearetwinUSB-Aportsatthebaseofthe centre console in the GS and ES and two more, also USB-A, in the rear of the higher-spec models.

Driving

TheESStreetthatwetestedhadanignitionkey rather than the almost universal push-button start in its competitors. That’s not necessarily a negative, especially with older buyers like ourselves,wholikethefactthatwealwaysknow where the key is located instead of rummaging around trying to find where you’d tossed the key fob.

For those who prefer push-button start, it’s standard from the LS models upwards.

The ASX is easy to drive and while not sporting it handles normal day-to-day driving competently. Ride comfort is good and the suppression of noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) works well.

The 2.0-litre engine does not reach anything like peak power of 110 kW until 6000 rpm, while torque is similarly tardy, at 197 Nm at 4200 revs.

The continuously variable transmission performance was adequate in city driving but came up wanting on overtaking. Sports mode had the ASX upping the ante with six-step operation.

It’s nicely responsive, which we like as it’s more pleasant to drive than many of the small displacement turbo-petrol engines that are in vogue nowadays.

Steering has a pleasant nice feel and gives the driver good response. Cornering is simple and the ASX generally follows the chosen line without you having to correct it midway through.

Road noise is generally well damped, but some stretches of Australia’s notorious coarse-chip surfaces set up a fair bit of noise in the cabin.

Fuel consumption with the 2.0-litre engine is listed at 7.6 litres per 100 kilometres. During our usual mix of urban and motorway conditions we averaged 9.1 L/100 km.

Summing up

The Mitsubishi ASX is a bit of an enigma because,despitebeingstillinitsfirstgeneration after 14 years, it remains one of the best-selling vehicles in the compact SUV segment.

Having said that, regular styling, technology andsafetyupdates–togetherwithkeenpricing – has allowed it to keep pace with its many, much younger rivals.

It’s practical, stylish and easy to drive and willappealtobothyoungfamilieswithpreteen children and retirees alike.

Note that Mitsubishi is headlining its advertising with an industry-leading 10-year warranty. It certainly sounds attractive on the surface but less so when you drill down because not only is the 10-year deal dependent upon having all servicing done exclusively at Mitsubishi dealerships, but also the distance is limited at 200,000km.

If you choose to have your servicing done elsewhere then the coverage drops down to five years and 100,000 kilometres.

No doubt that will suit many buyers but deter others. Do your own sums.

Despite being largely unchanged throughout the decade, ASX has been a star performer for Mitsubishi.

The weather gods weren’t on the side of cricketers, baseballers and lawn bowlers as many seasons kicked off on Saturday. While many were cancelled midway and others rained out on the day, there was still plenty of action with Star Weekly photographer LJUBICA VRANKOVIC getting some of the action. The rain also affected the AFLW. The Western Bulldogs had an opening training session during the week, with Star Weekly photographer DAMJAN JANEVSKI attending.

Wet weather mars season start

The Western Bulldogs train. 434898_04

Sunbury Kangaroos’ Michael Fox. 435782_01

Elle Bennetts signs an autograph. 434898_07

East Sunbury players walk off. 435787_04

Bryce Fleming in Broadford’s McIntyre Cup debut. Ljubica Vrankovic_435783_06

Gisborne’s Riley Vernon. 435786_10

Kaylee Kimber is tackled by Elaine Grigg. 434898_13

Romsey’s Taylor Stevenson and Chris Burkett. 435786_03

Mua Laloifi supporting her teammates from the stands. 434898_10

Deanna Berry. 434898_01

Wolves strengthen squad for premier 1 season

Williamstown Wolves are hoping some extra depth will help them be around the mark in the Baseball Victoria summer league premier 1st nine competition this season.

The season kicked off on Saturday for the summer league competition, but many sides includingtheWolvestopsidedidn’tgetonthe pitch due to rain.

Wolves president Chris Jackson said the playing group had been itching to get out there.Hesaidthingswerelookingprettygood for this time of the year.

“It’s been really good,” he said. “We’ve got some good acquisitions in the off season with some new players coming in and we have a new import.”

Jackson said they had looked to bring in plentyofdepthacrossallpositionsandgrades.

The biggest signing was import Spencer Taack.

Jackson said everyone had been keen to see import Spencer Taack through some balls on

the weekend.

Tacck had pitched all five of his years of his college career at Henderson State University.

He was originally a two-way outfielder-pitcher, he converted to a pitcher-only later in his career.

Jackson said they felt like they had added to their squad.

“Connor Hughes has come across to us and has started the season in the ones,” he said.

“We’ve had a lot of returning players as well as some other guys that have come to the club that will float through the ones and twos.

“After November we play two games a week for the rest of the season in the ones, so it will test our depth.”

Jackson said they had lost Aaron Green, who had retired, but were hopeful that they had covered his departure with some of the acquisitions.

With a new finals structure in place and with the top eight to play finals, Jackson said

that was what their aim was this season.

The Wolves are at home this Saturday against Melbourne.

On the women’s side of things, Jackson said it had been a bit of a trying off season.

With a change of structure for Baseball Victoria it meant many of the side couldn’t commit.

Jackson said to ensure those who still wanted to play had somewhere to go, they’ve got a combined side in the state league competition with Footscray.

“We have a close relationship with Footscray,” he said. “We merged a team with them and it’s called Footscray-WIlliamstown.

“It’s a step up for our girls in a higher league and they are keen to keep going. We’ve working on getting a standalone team again next season.”

The joint women’s team had a 9-1 loss to Melbourne on Saturday.

Tara Murray

50 up for Georgostathis

By Tara Murray

At just 22, Elisabeth Georgostathis is one of theWesternBulldogsmostexperiencedplayers this AFLW season.

A number of departures the past couple of years and injuries to some more experienced players have left a young Bulldogs list.

OnSaturday,Georgostathisranoutforgame

50 in the blue, red and white.

For someone who grew up in Melbourne’s western suburbs it’s pretty special.

“It’s so exciting,” she said before the game. “It’s taken me about five years to get there , “It is pretty cool that every game has been with the Bulldogs. It’s a really good environmentandI’mabsolutelyhappythatI’ve played my 49 games so far at the Bulldogs.

Georgostathis said she had never thought about playing 50 games when she first started her career but it was something that kept getting closer and closer.

She said now as one of the more experienced players she was keen to help those who are

coming through the system.

There’sbeenalotofchangeattheBulldogsthe past few years which this group is embracing.

“There’s been challenges with girls moving on and stuff,” she said. “We’re seeing a lot of new girls and they’re all starting at a younger age which is so exciting for women’s footy.

“They are coming out and challenging the older girls..

“I’mjust22yearsoldandI’moneofthemore experienced girls now, it is pretty cool.

“I’ve got to show and give my learnings and understandings of the younger girls on the playing list.”

After a slow start to the season where they struggledtoscorethefirstcoupleofrounds,the Bulldogs have started to find their feet.

They put two straight wins together against Collingwood and Sydney.

Georgostathis said the turning point came earlier than that.

“We didn’t start the season the way we wanted to,” she said. “Something shifted against Brisbane especially in the second half.

Sports shorts

VTCA

The Victorian Turf Cricket Association will now get underway this weekend. The season was set to start on Saturday, but due to a significant amount of grounds not being ready, the association made the call to cancel round one. It will be played on catch up day. The six first XI competitions will now start with two-dayers, starting this Saturday.

Western FL Parkside has joined to add more pieces to its list for next year’s Western Football League division 1 season. Luke Rowland joins the club and will provide the Magpies with another forward option. Jordyn Croucher is another signing that will add to the Magpies forward line, coming off kicking 40 goals this year. Chris Benson, Bruno Laguda and Matthew Bennardo are earlier new signings for the Magpies that have re-signed a number of players as well.

Western FL

Braybrook is seeking expressions of interest for coaching staff to try and get a women’s side back and going for next year’s Western Football League women’s season. The club is searching for passionate individuals, either playing or non-playing, to lead and support the program it’s aiming to reinstate in 2025.Details: braybrooksportingclub@hotmail.com or Anthony (0411 215 395) or James (0402 689 688).

A-League

“Our pressure and effort has been there all season. It was more of a reward for effort.”

The Sydney game was a special one as the BulldogswonatWhittenOvalforthefirsttime in more than 900 days.

The Bulldogs trailed by three points at three quarter before winning by seven points.

“For me in the backline it was good not having it out of”our forward line,” she said.

“We kept it in there and the girls did a really good job.

“The effort and pressure was amazing. It was only when there was two minutes left in the quarter I thought we have this.

“We’ve been able to get reward for effort in the past two games which has been really good.”

It didn’t get any easier for the Bulldogs on Saturday against the ladder leading North Melbourne, Georgostathis said before the game that they were up for the challenge.

North Melbourne was more than up for the challenge, claiming the win 8.11 (59)-0.4 (4).

Sandra Ibarguen is set to inject an explosion of athleticism and flair into the Western United’s A-League women’s attack with the Colombian striker signing on for the 2024-25 season. The 22-year-old arrives with a burgeoning reputation in her homeland having represented Colombia at under-20 level and broken through at club level in the top division. Ibarguen is coming off a season where she scored six goals in 12 matches for Deportivo Pasto having shone for Llaneros in prior seasons.

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Elisabeth Georgostathis. (AAP Image/Rob Prezioso)

Spencer Taack. (Supplied)

Spotswood keen to fire after a strong pre-season

Spotswood is hoping it will again be in the mix for the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association south-west.

Having made back-to-back grand finals, the Woodsmen have been one of the stronger teams in the competition.

On the back of a good pre-season, Woodsmen playing coach Dan Schuppan said they were hoping to be back there again.

“We had a really strong pre-season,” he said. “We think we would like to think we will be able to be up there.

“We’re confident again that we’ll play finals again and that is what you play cricket for.”

The Woodsmen will play the south teams this season, including Caulfield and Oakleigh which have been strong for a number of years.

Schuppan said they would get a clear indication of how much they’ve improved in their time in the competition.

“Our first year we played the south sides,” he said. “We just missed out on finals that year, we’ll see how far we have progressed since then.

“Hopefully we can play finals.”

The Woodsmen have kept a stable group of players together again.

Import Harry Lumsden is the big out, with Jackson Wadden returns after a season off and Patrick McArdle joins the club from Altona North.

Schuppan said they were thrilled to have Wadden back in the side.

“We don’t have a lot of turnover and we were able to strengthen our list,” he said.

“Jackson had a year out of the game and lots of club’s were after him. We want to come back and enjoy the game.

“It’s one of those things it’s a good environment and he chose us. It’s somewhere he feels comfortable and it’s a two way street.

“He’s matured a bit and it’s a win-win.”

Schuppan said McArdle offers depth to the squad. He comes after spending a number of years at Altona North.

The Woodsmen are also hoping to see some of the younger players take that next step.

“Harvey Redpath in the practice match

made 70 not out and won us the game,” Schuppan said.

“Darcy Lamont, Ansh Sharma got a taste of it last year. They are kids that we’ve been able to retain and they’re another year older.”

Schuppan said they felt that they had more depth across the board and they would continue to improve in all grades.

The Woodsmen are set to kick off their season on Saturday against Moorabbin after day one of the season was called off due to a lack of grounds being ready for action.

In other matches, Yarraville will host Oakleigh Altona hosts Williamstown in a big local clash.

This season there will be a combination of one and two-day matches and a T20 match will be held the Saturday before the Christmas break starts.

Tara Murray

Bulldogs rely on balance

By Tara Murray

Footscray is hoping it has the right mix of youth and experience in Victorian Premier Cricket this season.

After missing out on finals, the Bulldogs have managed to keep most of their squad together while they’ve got another pre-season into the younger players.

Speaking before Saturday’s season opener, coach Dale McDonald said it had been a good pre-season.

“It’s been really positive,” he said. “There’s been some turnover of players but we’re fairly unchanged in the first XI.

“We’ve bought in a lot of younger players [through the grades] that have been in our academies the last couple of years.

“That is what you want and there’s lots of positivescomingthroughandIcan’tcomplain at the moment.”

McDonald said many of the players they lost were on the fringe of their first XI side and were keen to seek opportunities elsewhere.

Arjun Nair is the biggest loss as he made the

move to Camberwell. West Indian Jermaine Levy who was with the side last season also hasn’t returned as things didn’t go to plan like they would have liked.

Coming into the side is Jack Prestwidge, who crosses from Melbourne, and is part of the Victorian state program.

McDonald said he would help the likes of Ben Roosenboom and Max Birthisel and the rest of the bowling group.

Bailey Toseland joins from Essendon and fits in with the young group of players they’ve got.

McDonald is excited what the young group

“Bailey’s ability is outstanding and in a couple of practice matches he dominated in both of them,” he said.

“Aiman Nadeem played most of the year in the first XI side. Josh Pace, Tosland have an extra 12 months under their belts and are playing in the under-19 practice matches at the moment.

“Dylan[Brasher]hasbeenplayingVictorian second XI matches and will hopefully play some state cricket.

Falcons stay with Mavs

City West Falcons stars Montana Holmes and Uneeq Palavi will again be part of the Suncorp Super Netball environment.

The pair have been named as Melbourne Mavericks training partners for a second straight season.

Kristiana Manu’a and Jessie Grenvold have also kept their spots as training partners, while Nyah Allen makes the move over from South Australia.

Holmes and Palavi, who both played key roles in the City West Falcons’ Victorian Netball League championship, both made their Super Netball debuts this year.

Holmes, who was on the bench for a couple of Collingwood matches previously, got on court in two games late in the season.

She played a combination of wing attack and centre.

Palavi, who was also previously a training partner for the Magpies, made her debut for the NSW Swifts after getting a call up late in the season.

She signed on for four games, playing minutes in all of them, including starting in two games.

Palavi was named the SSN player of the round for her performance against the Giants when she shot 43 goals from 45 attempts in regular time.

Palavi told Star Weekly after that stint that it had been a crazy ride.

“Mitchell Jamieson is playing which is a positive. He made 70 or 80 in an under-19 metro trial game.

“There’s lots of positives.”

McDonald said while all the youth was exciting, he was also excited to see a couple of the senior players out there.

He said Travis Dean was like a new recruit without his state cricket commitments, while Dylan Kight had performed well in the practice matches.

On Saturday, Footscray’s season opener with Fitzroy Doncaster ended in a draw after it was abandoned due to heavy rain.

The Lions made 6-237 from their overs with contributions throughout the order.

Max Birthisel took three wickets for the Bulldogs.

It was a disastrous start with the bat for the Bulldogs with Aiman Nadeem getting a golden duck and Mitchell Jamieson following him back to the sheds with a uck himself.

The Bulldogs were 2-0 when play was halted and it didn’t resume.

“It’s been such a rush,” she said. “It’s been going so fast.

“I feel like it was just yesterday that Briony [Akle, Swifts coach] gave me the call that she was considering me to come play and now I’m back at Falcons and it feels good to be home.

“I was so shocked when she [Akle] asked what I thought about it and I went, ‘are you sure?’ and we had a little bit of a giggle.

“I was so grateful that she even thought about me to put me in that position to show Suncorp what I can do and I’m grateful for it.”

Aiman Nadeem. (Jacob Pattison)369536_01

Jackson Wadden. (Jacob Pattison) 314622_08

Henry steps down as Williamstown CYs coach

Williamstown CYMS inaugural coach

Lawrence Henry is stepping down from the role after seven years in charge.

The CYs announced that Henry had made the call following the club’s Victorian Amatuer Football Association season.

Henry said when he first joined the women’s team, he had put his hand up to pick up a few cones at training and somehow stumbled into the senior coaching job.

“I’ve always felt a sense of belonging here” he said in a thank you letter.

“Like so many of my male contemporaries and men of this community over the past 138 years, I’ve grown up at the CYs.

“It was my time to give back, and I wanted

the women and girls of our community to have the opportunity to call the Fearon home. The players said it best with the theme they’ve carried through the past couple of seasons, ‘why not us, why not now’.”

Henry said it felt like that women’s football had also been at the club with the culture that had been built.

The side went through last year undefeated onthewaytothedivision2premiership,before jumping in premier B division this season.

The CYs were undefeated in the regular season before a straight sets exit. This year was also the first year the club had a women’s reserves side.

“I feel privileged to have been accepted and

trusted by the players to coach their team,”

Henry said. “A former captain stumbled through it perfectly, “one in, one all, all in”.

“What she meant was, everyone is welcome, we’ve got your back. Nothing sums up what I will miss most about coaching this club than the sense of togetherness and belonging that has always been the CYs way.

“What we’ve achieved, we’ve achieved together.”

Henry said it was hard to put into words what they’d achieved the past seven years and his appreciation for the playing group.

He said there were so many highlights including the establishment of the player

An opportunity to grow

By Tara Murray

AmongtheplayerspreparingfortheVictorian Turf Cricket Association season are seven players who have come out from Vanuatu.

While several Vanuatu players have come out before and played in several different competitions, there hasn’t been as many in one go.

With different managers and contacts sometimes those opportunities have dried up after a couple of seasons.

Vanuatu high performance manager and national coach Chris Laffan said he was keen to those connections back up and going.

He said it was an exciting opportunity for the players to come out to Australia and play.

“It’s a fantastic opportunity for them to get as much experience as possible,” he said. “It’s a different environment to ply their trade in.

“We’ve got seven playing in the VTCA and two others in some other competitions, including one in the women’s premier competition.

“It’s something that I’m really excited about.”

Laffansaidoneofthebiggestchallengeswas

getting the opportunities for the players.

Many players look to do seasonal work at this time of year so they have to find viable options so the players are willing to come across.

“We put the opportunity in front of the players and they take everything up,” he said.

“We had to put something conceivable that stacks up against seasonal work.

“It’s good to give them a chance and to get nine players out here and I couldn’t be happier.”

Laffan used some of his contacts in the VTCA to help find players a home. Laffan previouslyplayedandcoachedatCraigieburn.

He said Kane Twentyman, whose company Ferox supplies the players with a lot of equipment, had been really good using his contacts as well.

Laffan said the VTCA was keen to make it work as well.

“We are thankful for the VTCA and Zoran Havranek for their commitment to the improvement of cricket in the Pacific and support of our players developing in the VTCA,” he said.

Joshua Rasu will play at Craigieburn,

pathway with Williamstown juniors, the addition of a reserves team, rising divisions from D3 to Premier B and the first senior women’s premiership.

Henry said he was proud of what he had achieved at the club and would remain a supporter of the side.

Theexperienceofcoachingtheseniorwomen over the past seven seasons has profoundly impactedmypersonalandprofessionallifeand I’m immensely grateful for the lifelong friendships, experience, and skills it’s provided me.

For the better, the introduction of women’s footy has enormously impacted the club and community.

Foxe joins Socceroos

WesternUnitedassistantcoachHayden Foxe is on the move after joining the new Socceroos coaching panel.

Foxe has accepted a landmark position as Socceroos assistant coach, bringing an end to a memorable three-season stint at Western United. Foxe joined John Aloisi at United in 2021 and helped mastermind the greatest season in the club’s history, ending in an A-League men’s championship.

A former Socceroo as a player, Foxe will now return to the national team in the next major step of an already decorated coaching career.

Foxe said he will remain green and black forever and will cherish the memories he made in the west.

“Western will be part of my life forever and I am very thankful for the opportunity the club gave me,” he said.

“When you create something special like winning a championship, that lives with you for the rest of your life. We had the pleasure to experience such a feeling with everyone at the club.

“The future is so exciting for Western United on and off the football field. With the fans along with the staff and volunteers that make up this wonderful club, it’s great to remember the good times but ever so important to work together through adversity. Go Western.”

Nalin Nipiko and Williamsing Nalisa will play at (Doutta Stars, Simpson Obed at West Newport, Steve Sandy at Gellibrand and Darren and Womajo Wotu at Footscray Angliss.

Laffan said but luck it worked out that the players were spread across different grades. It gives the players a range of opportunities andalsogivesmorecricketerstheopportunity to play against cricketers from Vanuatu.

Many of the players haven’t played much red ball cricket before.

‘Gives massive experience we want this, they want it to happen year on year,” Laffan said.

“The talent is there. The island of Port Vila is not too different to the population of Craigieburn and they have the opportunity to play national cricket.”

Laffan, who just happens to be back in Australia at the moment, said the players had taken ownership of their journeys as well and they were excited to experience club land.

“This trip is about giving them the experience and me being here and being able to work with them as well, put in good space going forward.”

United football general manager Mal Impiombato thanked Foxe for his impact on United’s success and development over the past three years.

“Hayden has been instrumental in driving our standards as a football club and we will long be indebted to him for his work in helping set the foundations for success,” he said.

“His commitment to excellence, passion and love for the job have been exemplary and we are immensely proud of his achievements.

“We are equally delighted with the role that our club has played in preparing Hayden for this moment. We remain steadfast in our ambition to provide a platform for individuals to thrive and contribute to the betterment of the game.

“We extend our highest congratulations and greatest well wishes to Hayden while watching on with great enthusiasm to see his continued progress.”

Impiombato said they would provide an update on their coaching structure in the near future.

Darren and Womajo Wotu. (Supplied)