Star Weekly - Hobsons Bay Maribyrnong - 27th November 2024

‘‘ They’ve flat out ignored the community ’’

- Gill Gannon

Champion Rd frustration

By Cade Lucas

The state government has been accused of ignoring community concerns by continuing with plans to close a busy road as part of the Newport level crossing removal project.

Designs released on Tuesday, November 19 show the removal of level crossings at both Maddox and Champion roads in Newport, but with the latter still being closed to traffic, something local residents and Hobsons Bay council vehemently oppose.

While Maddox Road will continue on an elevated bridge across the rail lines, Champion Road will be closed to traffic and a new pedestrian and cycling bridge built to link Williamstown North and Newport instead.

“They’ve flat out ignored the community,” said Gill Gannon, spokesperson for local

campaign group Keep Champion Road Open.

“Thousands of people have signed petitions, turned up to meetings, emailed and visited (politician’s) offices and every one hasn’t been heard.”

A local resident and business owner, Ms Gannon said the closure of Champion Road would result in a huge increase in traffic on Maddox Road, causing congestion and safety issues.

“We are extremely concerned about the dangeronMaddoxRoadwithschools,childcare centres and maternal and child health centres.

There’s parents and children crossing multiple times a day,” said Ms Gannon who added that the design of the pedestrian bridge was also flawed.

“The pedestrian walkway puts people through industrial land and is completely

unsafe. There’s bike lanes that don’t go anywhere. They just go into brick walls. Dead ends.”

Ms Gannon said these concerns had been relayed to the government through the Level Crossing Removal Project (LXRP) and Williamstown MP Melissa Horne, on numerous occasions, but to no avail.

To make matters worse, she said the designs were released on Tuesday afternoon, just hours before a scheduled stakeholder liaison meeting between residents and LXRP authorities.

“That’s outrageous,” said Ms Gannon who, along with other members of Keep Champion Road Open, refused to participate in the meeting at the Newport Bowls Club.

Newly elected Hobsons Bay mayor Daria Kellander agreed with Ms Gannon, saying issues outlined in a council submission in

August hadn’t been taken into account.

“Council remains opposed to the divisive, permanent closure of the Champion Road level crossing,” Cr Kellander said.

InastatementanLXRPspokespersondenied that the local community had been ignored.

“Communityfeedbackhasbeenincorporated into the designs of the Newport project and we encourage the community to have their say – with our third round of consultation now underway.”

MsHornesaidthereleaseofthedesignsdidn’t mean the end of community consultation.

“There is a lot more work to do on the initial designs to reflect the feedback from the community including noise attenuation and protecting vegetation,” she said. “I would encourage people to provide their feedback in the upcoming information sessions.”

Keep Champion Road Open campaign member Gill Gannon at the site of where it’s proposed the road will be closed once the level crossing is removed. (Damjan Janevski) 445354_02

Summer safety beach operation

By Cade Lucas

Altona and Williamstown beaches will have an increased police presence from now until the end of summer thanks to Operation Summersafe launched on Thursday.

The police operation will run day and night over summer at both Hobsons Bay beaches as well as other popular swimming spots such as St Kilda, Half Moon Bay and across the Mornington Peninsula.

Localpolicewillbeassistedintheoperation by water police, public order response teams,

highwaypatrol,transitsafetypolice,mounted police and the dog squad.

Operation Summersafe officers will do proactive patrols and respond to incidents along foreshores and nearby parks, entertainment precincts and public transport hubs.

Nigel McGuire White said police would be closely monitoring those operating water craft too.

“We will also have members out on the water and patrolling the shoreline to ensure that jet ski riders aren’t putting swimmers in

danger,” he said.

“Riders who put other beach goers in harm’s way can expect to be charged with a criminal offence, and some may even have their jet skis seized. Riders can and will be drug and alcohol tested, just like drivers on the road, and they can also have their jet skis seized and impounded, just like cars.”

Operation Summersafe officers will also utilise an extensive CCTV network to monitor crime in real-time, allowing them to respond to incidents quickly, and de-escalate crimes as or before they occur.

Renovations were worth the wait

The $7 million refurbishment of Seddon’s Millennium House Community Centre was officially opened last week.

The centre, which is home to not-for-profit aged care and community support service AustralianMulticulturalCommunityServices (AMCS), now has more space and enhanced facilities which the organisation says will help it better serve the local multicultural community.

“We now have a beautiful hall that can be used as a community space, a commercial kitchen, all set up with state of the art equipment,” said AMCS chief executive Maryanne Tadic, describing some of the new

and improved facilities.

“We also have several smaller community spaces available for use, and a fully equipped caféwehopetodevelopintoasocialenterprise.”

The upgrades were paid for through contributions from the state government’s Multicultural Community Infrastructure Fund, the Gandel Foundation and a $500,000 from the West Gate Neighbourhood Fund.

Transport Infrastructure Minister Danny PearsonandWestGateTunnelProjectdirector Peter Lellyett received a tour of the centre ahead of its official launch, while plenty of others were on hand to celebrate the opening at the party on November 20.

“It was a wonderful celebration,” said Ms Tadic.

“We had over 130 people representing many community groups, both with past connections to AMCS and Millennium house and some new interest for the future use of our community space.”

Built in the 1960’s the Millenium House building was gifted to AMCS by the Polish AssociationofKingsvilleandLadiesAuxiliary.

Wednesday’s opening marks the end of a seven year effort by AMCS to redevelop the building.

Spreading Christmas joy to very special kids

Spending Christmas Day in the hospital is not a common thing for most people, but for terminally ill children, that is the norm.

Melton local Daniel Roberts’ son contracted bronchiolitis and Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) at just two months old and spent a week in hospital.

This drove Mr Roberts to raise funds for terminally ill kids through Very Special Kids.

“It was about a week in hospital with feeding tubes and oxygen, and it was a challenging week,” he said.

“It was hard to see your kid go through that. “It would be even harder if my kid was terminally ill or had cancer or if they’ve got a short life expectancy.”

One night, while scrolling through TikTok, Mr Roberts found Very Special Kids, and from

then, started a GoFundMe to raise money for sick children.

“It helps kids with terminal cancer, different disordersthatshortentheirlifeexpectancy,”he said. “It’s also about the parents trying to cope in those times.”

“Expenses for hospitals, medical treatment, just general needs … it could be just as simple as just formulas.

Mr Roberts said he heard stories from other parents when his son was in the hospital.

“They’re talking about their kids in the ICU and hospice, it also got to me,” he said.

“Coming up to Christmas, we enjoy buying all your kids presents, but we’ve got to do something nice, and give support to kids who need it.”

Like striking a spark that lit up big flames,

Designated areas will also be subject to weapons searches - called OMNI operationswhere police target those carrying concealed weapons under the Control of Weapons Act 1990.

Victoria Police say the Operation Summersafe is necessary to ensure community safety and will be centred around maintaining public order, detecting and disrupting crime, and keeping all road users safe.

The operation began on November 21 and will run until March 2025.

More trees for the west

A new round of applications are open for new trees to be planted across Melbourne’s west.

Throughout Hobsons Bay, Maribyrnong, Brimbank, Melton, Moonee Valley and Wyndham, schools, parks and reserves can apply for some of the 90,000 trees available over the next 18 months.

Part of the More Trees for a Cooler, Greener West program, which has already seen 410,000 trees planted since 2021, this round of applications is the final of its kind.

The new trees will consist of a mix of tube stock and advanced tree plantings.

This latest round of funding will help provide more green open spaces, vital new habitats for local wildlife and reduce the urban heat island effect which means more shade and cooler streets and parks in summer.

Applications for local councils, public land managers and Traditional Owner Corporations are now open, and close on December 3, with trees ready to be planted throughout 2025 and 2026.

Schools will be invited to apply for native trees to plant on their grounds early next year.

Environment Minister Steve Dimopoulos said they are after more schools and local organisations to put their hands up for the last 90,000 trees available.

“More trees means less pollution and more green spaces for Victorian families to enjoy for years to come,” he said.

Details: environment.vic.gov.au/ more-trees

Mr Roberts has raised $600, surpassing his initial goal of $500.

“Family, my wife, people at church, and friends, all the credit goes to them,” he said.

“I just started it, they’re the ones that made it grow.

“Just by donating a small amount or just contributing, you’re doing more for someone than what you already know.

“If you do it, it’s amazing what you’re doing.”

For donations, visit vsk.grassrootz.com/ do-something-very-special-your-way/ roberts-family

Faith Macale

Dan Graeme with his six-month-old son Carter. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 442586_03

Australian Multicultural Community Services staff (from left) Aryan Bhandari, Mansy Yadav, Maryanne Tadic (CEO) Aneta Antczak and Heather Rogers outside the newly refurbished Millennium House Community Centre in Seddon. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 444677_01

Cade Lucas.

Kellander leads new look council

By Cade Lucas

Councillor Daria Kellander broke down in tearsafterbeingelectedHobsonsBaymayoron Friday night.

The Altona ward representative, one of just two returning members from the previous council, was elected unopposed at the meeting onNovember22,withfirsttimecouncillorand Altona North representative, Rayane Hawli, elected deputy.

AnemotionalCrKellanderfoughtbacktears as she addressed the chamber following her election.

“Thank you tonight for your trust in electing measmayor,”shesaidtoherfellowcouncillors, noting that five of them were newly elected and five,includingherself,werewomen,thehighest level of female representation in council’s history.

Cr Kellander said that it was now up to the new council to deliver for the community.

“Thisyearsetsthefoundationandthevision for what we deliver for our community, in line with what our community has told us they clearly want. A council that always puts our community first,” she told the chamber.

“Acouncilthatenhancesourservicedelivery

and strengthens and supports our local economy. One that protects and preserves our natural environment such as our parks, wetlands area, lake, creeks, and foreshore areas that make Hobsons Bay so unique. A council thatisopenandtransparent.Onethatactswith integrity.”

During its previous term Hobsons Bay council was beset by infighting, with Cr Kellander herself suspended for a week in March this year after being found guilty of misconduct.

Then-councillor Antoinette Briffa accused Cr Kellander of not treating other councillors

and the mayor with fairness, objectivity, courtesy and respect in an all staff email relating to mayoral elections sent the previous October.

Cr Kellander was also an outspoken supporter of residents at Williamstown’s Techno Park estate which the previous council had attempted to evict. The new mayor didn’t address either matter in her speech, but said voters clearly wanted councillors to focus on their concerns rather than each other’s.

“We heard loud and clear during the election that our community want council to get the basics right,” she said.

Festival of languages is the talk of the town

ThemanyandvariedlanguagesofMelbourne’s west will be celebrated at the annual Language In Community Festival next month.

HeldatFootscray’sSeelafSquareonSaturday, December 7, the festival will be hosted by Iranian/Australian podcaster and artist Kate Robinson and feature performances and activities showcasing of the west’s community languages: Hazara, Amharic, Vietnamese, Greek, Tagalog, Tamil, Hindi and more.

Among those taking the stage will be dance group Jollity Bollywood performing a variety of Indian dance forms including bollywood, bolly hop, folk and bharatntyam.

Ghanaian musicians Nii Otu Laryea and Kofi Nortey, along with West African and Afro Cuban drummer Ray Pereira will share a performance of ‘talking drums’ while parents and children from Cherry Crescent Preschool will get everyone singing in Vietnamese.

Multilingual Storytellers Rohini Vij, Anna

Manuel, Dee Palanisamy and Priti Modyiyer will captivate everyone with an interactive storytime and the popular Karaoke Storytime

will be back and all are welcome to join in. Workshops will include flag making with Sonia Zymantas,collage and storytelling with

Viet-My Bui and parents can learn more about community language education in presentationsbyAssociateProfessorJulieChoi, Amharic Saturday School teacher Tenenet Taye, and French studies lecturer Dr Tess Do.

The festival is organised by Maribyrnong based Vietnamese language education not-for-profit, Vi?tSpeak.

Vi?tSpeak representative Hoang Tran Nguyen said the festival celebrates language as a vital part of the fabric of everyday life.

“In society, language binds communities together,” he said. “However, if taken for granted, language loss can occur within one generation for many migrant-settler groups. Celebrating the multilingual realities in our homes and communities will ensure intergenerational knowledge and nurture relationships with the people around us.”

The Language in Community Festival runs from 11am to 3pm on Saturday December 7.

Hoang Tran Nguyen with dancers from Jollity Bollywood at the 2023 Language In Community Festival.

EPA shuts down recycling firm

By Cade Lucas

A Brooklyn recycling business has been shut down due to health and environmental risks and a continued lack of compliance.

Limbourne Group Pty Ltd, trading as Apex Waste Control, can no longer operate a waste transfer facility after the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) revoked its permission to do so on October 24 following its failure to comply with the several regulatory notices.

The director of the skip bin hire and material

recycling business, Nicholas Limbourne, was also deemed not a fit and proper person to operate a business with EPA permission.

The EPA’s decision to revoke permission came after the company was found guilty and fined $45,000 by the Melbourne Magistrates CourtinMayforfailingtocomplywithnotices issued in relation to a burning stockpile of waste found at a property in Great Western.

The stockpile, which included bricks, soil, timber,plastic,tilesandcementsheet,hadbeen set on fire and left to smoulder for weeks before the CFA was notified.

The EPA notices required Limbourne Group to prepare an emergency management plan and fire risk assessment, stop accepting waste, provide documentation to help track the collection and receival of waste, and make sure its stockpiles of combustible and recyclable waste comply with safety regulations. The company failed to comply with all of them.

In its decision handed down on May 27, the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court also found Mr Limbourne had illegally deposited industrial waste by burning at the property in Great Western, while the owner, Tombell Limsed Pty

program. (Damjan Janevski) 442927_01

Funding to unite women in the water

The Maribyrnong Aquatic Centre’s (MAC) efforts to teach women from multicultural backgrounds how to swim has been rewarded by the federal government with a grant worth more than $50,000.

As part of the government’s ‘Play Our Way’ program, MAC has recieved $51,900 towards its Swim Unity initiative that emphasises water safety for women across a range of cultures.

The money will help MAC deliver the three yearprogram,whichprovideswomentailored lessons to help them become competent swimmers, while teaching life-saving techniques with a focus on drowning prevention and emergency response.

In announcing the funding last month, Fraser MP Daniel Mulino said the funding for Swim Unity would greatly benefit women in Maribyrnong.

“There’s a wide range of communities where there are barriers to learning to swim,” Mr Mulino said.

“It’s going to make a huge difference here.”

Maribyrnong council chief executive Celia Haddock said the funding would enhance existing learn to swim and water safety programs.

“Water safety and swimming education for all has always been a priority for council, as Maribyrnong is a highly diverse municipality,” Ms Haddock said.

“While we have always offered swimming lessons for the community, we recognise the importance of continuing to find opportunities to make water safety education more accessible and culturally relevant. By strengthening and expanding our swimming programs, we aim to empower our community to enjoy water-based activities in a positive, safe, and supportive environment.”

Along with swimming and water safety lessons, the funding will also allow MAC to offer Swim Unity participants free access to the pool for practice, as well as goggles, a swimming cap and a bag.

Details: https://www.maribyrnong.vic.gov. au/mac/Home

Ltd,wasfined$3000andorderedtoremovethe industrial waste from its premises.

EPA Victoria western metropolitan regional manager Jeremy Settle said the case had a clear message for businesses everywhere.

“EPA regulatory notices are there to protect the environment and the community, and must be taken seriously,” Mr Settle said.

Most businesses do their best to meet their responsibilities under the Environment Protection Act, but there is no option of ignoring it and hoping it will go away, for those who don’t.”

Warning ahead of summer

Ahead of a hot, dry summer, Greater Western Water (GWW) is urging customers in fire prone areas to start preparing now for the bushfire season.

The Bureau of Meteorology is predicting Australia will face one of the hottest summers on record this season, bringing increased bushfire risk throughout Brimbank, Hobsons Bay, Hume, Macedon Ranges, Melton, Moorabool and Wyndham.

GWW general manager of operations and delivery solutions Jodie Hallam said that while GWW plans and prepares the network for fire season, reliable water supply cannot be guaranteed during a bushfire emergency.

“During a bushfire, customers might encounter low water pressure, loss of water supply or decreased water quality,” she said.

“This can be caused by various factors, including heat and fire damage to our pipes and equipment, or high demand for water from firefighters. Customers should not rely on mains water to defend their properties.”

Ms Hallam said it was important to keep drinking water on hand in an emergency kit for all family members and pets.

“Bushfires happen quickly so it’s best to start planning and preparing now,” she said.

“If your water supply is impacted we’ll aim to let you know through text messages and website and social media updates. It’s important to register your mobile phone number with us to stay informed of any critical water supply notices.”

They urge residents to always use more than one source of information during a bushfire such as the VicEmergency app, official agency social media channels, local radio and community networks.

New Footscray Hospital emergency department completed

The new Footscray Hospital is a step closer to opening, with the construction of the emergency department (ED) now complete.

On Monday, Premier Jacinta Allan joined Health Infrastructure Minister Mary-Anne Thomas, Mental Health Minister Ingrid Stitt, Footscray MP Katie Hall and staff from Western Health for a tour of the new ED and toreleasenewdesignsofthehospital’sinterior.

Once operational, the new Footscray Hospital ED will have the capacity to treat more than 20,000 additional patients each year with more resuscitation bays, fast-track bays, and acute and short stay beds.

The purpose built facility also features a new mental health and alcohol and other drugs (AOD) Hub, which Ms Stitt hailed as a major advancement in the treatment of related conditions.

“The new ED and a mental health and AOD hub will see us deliver on another recommendation from the Royal Commission – ensuring patients who need urgent care, can get tailored, specialised and fast-tracked treatment,” she said.

With the hospital’s external façade also complete, construction workers are now focused on the internal fit-out across the

hospital site.

What parts of the internal fit-out will look like was revealed on November 18, with the release of new designs of the hospital’s main reception area, communal spaces, patient rooms and waiting areas.

Once complete the new Footscray Hospital will have more than 500 beds – an increase of nearly 200 from the existing hospital –allowing an estimated 15,000 additional patients to be treated each year as well as cutting wait times and reducing pressure on nearby hospitals.

“The new Footscray Hospital will mean

more locals in the west can get the very best care they need, close to home,” Ms Allan said. Since the start of construction, more than three million hours of work have been carried out and more than 150,000 tonnes of concrete has been poured onsite to complete the new hospital structure.

Delivered by the Victorian Health Building AuthorityinconjunctionwithWesternHealth, Plenary Health and Victoria University, major construction of the new Footscray Hospital is expected to be complete by late next year.

Cade Lucas

Angela Leong, Abigael Sosi and lifeguard Lily Rutledge celebrate Maribyrnong Aquatic Centre being awarded federal funding for its Swim Unity

Tiwari voted Maribyrnong mayor

After less than a week on council, West Footscray’sPradeepTiwariisnowMaribyrnong mayor.

The new Bluestone ward representative was elected mayor for the next 12 months at Maribyrnong council’s first post-election meeting on Tuesday night November 19.

Labor-aligned Cr Tiwari won the top job by defeating the Greens Bernadette Thomas by four votes to three.

Cr Thomas, one of just two members of the previous council to be re-elected, was elected deputy mayor unopposed.

Cr Tiwari was nominated for mayor by his immediate predecessor, councillor Cuc Lam who then voted for him along with his fellow first time councillors Mohamed Semra and Susan Yengi.

Cr Thomas was nominated by fellow Greens councillor Samanthan Meredith who then voted for her along with the Greens third councillor, Elena Pereyra.

Speaking after his election, Cr Tiwari reflected on his rapid rise from candidate to councillor to now being mayor.

“It’s been hectic, it’s been tedious, but here I

am being voted in by the people and my fellow councillors, so I appreciate their support and there’s lots of work ahead.”

Cr Tiwari said he was surprised at the level of support he received in the mayoral election, but denied a deal had been struck with other Labor-aligned councillors.

He said improving community consultation and engagement would be his initial focus.

“I nominated myself to try and be a voice for the community within council and show the community that they can have confidence in our consultation process and our engagement

Ready to celebrate the end of 2024

The Seabrook Community Centre Playgroup will celebrate the end of the year when it holds a holiday festival on Thursday, December 5. Beginning at 11am, the morning will feature an unveiling of artwork by the preschool children who attend the playgroup to give thanks to the Seabrook Community Centre thathoststhemandtheHobsonsBayMaternal and Child Health (MCH) team who operate it. Children and parents have particular reason to thank Hobsons Bay (MCH) and Hobsons Baycouncil,givenitwastheirdecisiontobring backtheplaygroupmidwaythrough2024after a four year absence.

Once the the largest playgroup in Victoria,

the Seabrook Community Centre playgroup was disbanded in 2020 due to the pandemic.

But thanks to growing demand in the Hobsons Bay community for programs that connect young families, the playgroup was reinstated and quickly became popular, attracting more than 25 children during term and more than 40 in school holidays.

The playgroup has proved to be as diverse as it is popular with families from Australia, Sri Lanka, Iran, India, Canada, South Africa, Columbia, China, Japan and New Zealand regularly attending.

Those families are expected to be at the holiday festival next week along with local

Arts centre work underway

The transformation of Footscray Community Arts centre has begun, with works on an $8.7 million redevelopment of the outdoor space at the creative and cultural hub underway.

Theredevelopmentincludesanewmulti-use, outdoor performance space with year-round weather protection and improved disability and mobility access.

Landscaping works and new planting will also take place, as well as the integration of artwork by Yorta Yorta, Wurundjeri and Wiradjuri visual artist, Moorina Bonini.

Once complete, Footscray Community Arts will be able to host outdoor music events, cultural ceremonies, performances, talks and workshops – with a focus on community-led programming for the diverse communities in the surrounding area.

Footscray Community Arts artistic director and chief executive Daniel Santangeli said the

centre,whichiscelebratingits50thanniversary this year, needed to be redeveloped to keep pace with the growth of Footscray and the inner-west.

“This architecturally designed outdoor performance space will allow us to continue our 50 year legacy of supporting communities to connect through creativity,” Mr Santangeli said.

children’s book author, and playgroup parent, Chris Sandtsmith, who is donating the proceeds from his ‘Barry Has One’ and ‘Allen Has Three’ books to the playgroup until January 2025.

Registered as a non-profit, the Seabrook playgroup relies on gold-coin donations and assistance from the Hobsons Bay community.

Those interested in making a donation by purchasing one of Mr Sandtsmith’s books, can do so at: https://amzn.asia/d/0kZzQhx

Parents and children interested in joining the playgroup can drop in on Thursdays from 10-11.30am at Seabrook Community Centre, 15 Truganina Avenue, Seabrook.

process and that is my top priority.”

Indian-born Cr Tiwari is the first MaribyrnongmayorofIndianheritageandsaid hewasproudtoleadacouncilthatreflectedthe diversity of the local community.

“I got elected into probably the most multicultural council that I’ve known in 40 years living in Maribyrnong and West Footscray,” he said.

The meeting was the first time Maribyrnong council had met at Footscray Town Hall in two years, with extensive renovations to the 90-year-old building recently completed.

West Gate

Motorists in the western suburbs are expected to face delays of up to 30 minutes across the next three weeks, as capacity and safety works occur on freeway connections.

The outbound exit from the West Gate Freeway to the M80 Ring Road (Greensborough-bound) will close between 10pm Tuesday, November 19 and 5am Monday, December 9. Drivers are being encouraged to plan ahead and consider using the following detours:

• Taking the earlier exit at Grieve Parade, then using Geelong, Little Boundary and Boundary roads to reach the M80.

• Continuing onto the Princes Freeway and u-turning at Kororoit Creek Road, then back-tracking to reach the M80.

• Continuing onto the Princes Freeway, exitingatKororoitCreekRoad,andusing FitzgeraldRoadtotheM80,orRobinsons Road to reach the Western Freeway. Overnight works will continue over the coming months, including further freeway, lane and ramp closures affecting connections between the Princes Freeway, West Gate Freeway and M80 Ring Road.

Drivers are encouraged to refer to on-road signage which will have informationonclosurelocations,timings and the recommended detours.

The M80 capacity improvements between the Princes Freeway and Western Freeway includes the addition of a Greensborough-bound lane, the installation of a smart freeway management system and ramp signals.

Real-time traffic conditions: traffic. transport.vic.gov.au and up to date public transport information: ptv.vic.gov.au or in the PTV mobile app.

Creative industries parliamentary secretary and Footscray MP, Katie Hall, said the redevelopment guaranteed Footscray Community Arts would remain a hub for cultureandcreativityinMelbourne’swest,well into the future.

MGSArchitectsandSimoneBlissLandscape Architects designed the redevelopment and consulted with Footscray Community Arts’ Indigenous Advisory Group to make sure First Peoples culture was featured.

Seabrook playgroup children, parents and staff, Antoine, Vivian, Kai, Michelle, Chinthana, Cherry, Xavier, Canyon Cimino, Thoren, Chris Sandtsmith, Amanda Gilder, Jade, Zayne, Himadri, Victoria, Campion Cimino, Rosemari Van der Sandt and Lugh. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 444322_04

Fertility service’s first new arrival

The family of the first baby born due to intervention from Northern Health’s fertility service recently made a special visit to the healthservice’swomen’shealthhubtocelebrate her birth.

Sarah and Matt Rowe had been trying for a baby for some time. All around them, their friends were having babies, and they were concerned with why it didn’t seem to be happening to them.

Whileitappearedtocomeeasytoothers,they were really struggling and the disappointment was beginning to take its toll.

The couple became aware of the state government’s new Public Fertility Care through their GP.

They obtained a referral and an appointment was made for them at Northern Health, their closest satellite service.

The service is offered by Northern Health in collaboration with The Royal Women’s Hospital.

The couple undertook nurse-led ovulation induction, a process where medication is used to stimulate and induce regular ovulation, allowing for more accurate timing of intercourse.

“We really had no idea about the fertility process and we assumed we would go straight to IVF. Instead, we went through ovulation induction which was a different experience to what we thought we would have, but a successful one,” Sarah said.

This proved successful, and resulted in their

Jacque Dulson said Patients who never thought having a family would be possible are now overjoyed that they are able to access a free fertility service.

“Itmeansthattheabilitytopayisnolongera determining factor in whether or not you have a family,” she said.

Free public fertility care was first introduced by the government in 2022 and has since welcomed 50 babies into the world.

HealthMinisterMary-AnneThomassaidthe public fertility service was making a difference to many Victorians.

beautiful baby girl, Lola. Sarah, Matt and Lola paid a special visit to Northern Health’s Women’s Health Hub when Lola was just two weeks old. The team at Northern were thrilled to meet Lola and experience first-hand the impact of their work and how it can change the lives of our local families.

ThecouplewereoverjoyedwithLola’sarrival, describing the experience as ‘surreal’.

“Having access to the service and being able to access it so close to home is huge for people and families in our situation,” Sarah said.

Northern Fertility Service registered nurse

“Welcoming a new baby into the world is an incredible experience, but for some Victorians this journey isn’t always straight forward – the arrival of beautiful baby Lola is proof that this service is game changing for many people who may not have been able to start or grow their families otherwise,” she said.

“Ewe can help more prospective parents and encourage locals near our Northern Hospital satellite service to talk to their GP or specialist about a referral.”

Conversations are key to helping stop violence

As White Ribbon Month gets under way, the organisation is working harder than ever to prevent violence against women by engaging men and boys in the solution.

White Ribbon Australia social policy and advocacy partner Ilana Rohwedder explained that the month is about creating real change through meaningful dialogue and education.

“This year, we are really stressing the need to get men and boys talking about violence against women,” she said. “Despite all the work undertaken by governments, advocacy organisations, and national campaigns, the message just isn’t landing with many men and boys.Theydon’tseewhatithastodowiththem or what they can realistically do about it.”

She said one of the key challenges is bridging the gap between awareness campaigns and personal connection.

“This doesn’t mean they don’t care about the women in their lives,” she said.

“But the broader movement to end violence against women isn’t connecting with many men and boys in a way that reflects their personal experiences.

“We need to be able to respond to where they are and not just tell them where we think they should be. People won’t change their beliefs or attitudes by someone telling them what they should think—we have to be able to have a dialogue.”

This year, White Ribbon is focusing on starting that dialogue.

“We are asking men and boys to tell us where they are in this movement. How do they understand the issue? What do they need to see to understand the vital role they play in preventing violence against women?”

Ms Rohwedder highlighted the importance of engaging young people early, describing White Ribbon’s You Can Ask That workshops as a key example. The sessions give students the opportunity to ask anonymous questions and engage in open dialogue about sensitive

topics like family violence and respectful relationships.

“Listening to young people in this way enables us to facilitate meaningful discussions and explore their knowledge of gender, relationships, and the gaps in their understandingofhowgenderinequalityrelates to family and domestic violence,” she said.

“This approach really shifts the format from a lecture to a conversation, and we have found that to be an effective way of engaging with instead of talking at men and boys.”

Theorganisationhasfaceduniquechallenges in recent years. Feedback from their Youth Advisory Group revealed a widespread issue in schools, where lessons on gender equality

and respectful relationships are often limited to a single lecture or delivered by teachers disconnected from the content.

Ms Rohwedder said this approach highlights misconceptions about how change occurs.

“Even when we say we want to get men and boys talking, we’ve had pushback that we shouldn’t be hearing from men and boys at all andinsteadweshouldjustbetellingthemwhat to do,” she said.

“But that approach just doesn’t work. We can’t just talk at men and boys, we need to get themtalking.Theongoingconversationiswhat provides an opportunity to generate a moment that shifts their understanding and creates moments for change.”

The most recent Australian Bureau of Statistics personal safety survey found that one in four women in Australia has experienced physical or sexual violence from an intimate partner in her lifetime.

“The importance of this figure is not just the staggering number—it’s also the differences in the reactions I get from men and women,” Ms Rohwedder said.

“When I have talked to men, some seem to really question this figure—they just can’t visualise that one in four women have experienced it.

“With women, I get a totally different reaction. There’s an immediate ‘that tracks’ because they have their own personal experiences or know other women who have gone through something. It’s not just the statistics that demonstrate that this work is crucial—it’s the disbelief and stark disparity of experiences between men and women that reinforces that there is still a lot of work to do.”

For those wanting to make a difference, White Ribbon offers a range of resources, from educational toolkits on recognising the signs of violence to training programmes in schools and workplaces.

These initiatives focus on addressing the root causes of violence, particularly gender inequality, to prevent it before it starts.

Ms Rohwedder also stated the importance of starting conversations at home.

“I’d really challenge anyone to go home and talk to the men and boys in their life to get a sense of how they understand violence against women,” she said.

“They may not have a perfect answer, but even that tells you something and gives you a starting point for an ongoing conversation.”

White Ribbon Month is ongoing until December 13. Details: whiteribbon.org.au/ white-ribbon-month/

Gerald Lynch

White Ribbon Australia social policy and advocacy partner Ilana Rohwedder. (Supplied)

Sarah, Matt and Lola Rowe, and staff members from the Northern Health Women’s Health Hub. Inset: Baby Lola. (Supplied)

Grant is a lifesaver for swim club

By Cade Lucas

Williamstown Swimming and Life Saving Club(WSLSC)hasreceivedanearlyChristmas present with a $20,000 donation from the Commonwealth Bank (CBA).

WSLSC joined community organisations from across Victoria in receiving the donations as part of the CommBank Staff Foundation’s 2024 Community Grants program.

The 2024 community grants program has provided funding to a diverse array of community organisations in Victoria supporting mental health, homelessness, survivors of domestic violence, Indigenous

education, children’s health and more.

Donations from the 2024 grants program have doubled compared to previous years, with the CommBank Staff Foundation raising $3.5 million to fund these grants through regular salary donations from staff which are then matched by the bank itself.

WSLSC was nominated for this year’s program by CBA staff member Samantha Pearce.

Club spokesperson Elizabeth McFarlane explained what the money would go towards.

“The funds will be used to purchase equipment necessary to support lifesaving activities and water safety education

programs,” she said.

“A broad range of equipment is required to provide lifesaving training and beach and surf patrols during the summer months at Williamstown Beach.”

Along with protecting swimmers and beachgoers, WSLSC clubrooms also act as community space, hosting community health programs, such as yoga, library and fitness classes.

Head of community investment at CommBank,NathanBarkersaidorganisations that provided tangible benefits to their communities were exactly who they wanted to reward.

The Salvos urge people to dig deep

The Salvation Army last week launched its annual Christmas Appeal and the Hobsons Bay corps are doing their bit to contribute by organising food drives with local organisations to support their Christmas hamper program.

“Anyone in the community can run a food drive at their local school or workplace and the donations that we receive this will go into hampers to support what we estimate will be 100 families,” said Hobsons Bay corps Captain Star Conliffe.

Captain Conliffe said nonperishable foods and toiletries can be donated up until December 13 when the Christmas hampers will be put together and the distributed.

‘‘ We’re seeing families that we’ve never met before reaching out to us because of the cost of living ’’

- Star Conliffe

“We especially appreciate Christmas foods because they’re the things our clientele will struggle to afford,” she said.

“Long life custard, puddings, cakes, mince pies and other treats.”

Captain Conliffe said the cost of living crisis meant it was especially important that people donated this year.

“We’re seeing families that we’ve never met before reaching out to us because of the cost of living,” she said.

“Last year we had an incredibly generous year,thecommunitygaveusmoredonationsof food than we’d ever received before and we’re hoping that this year’s donations can match that because we know the need is so strong.”

Captain Conliffe’s anecdotal evidence is backed up by new research released by the Salvation Army to coincide with the launch of their Christmas appeal,.

The research found over 15.3 million Australians (72 per cent) will be more mindful of their spending this Christmas compared to previous years, and over 4 in 10 (42 per cent) will have their Christmas negatively impacted this year because of the cost of living. Further, almost half of Australians (48 per cent) will buy less presents for their children and loved ones, and an alarming 11.9 million people (56 per cent) will spend less on food this Christmas.

The research also found that while only 9.3 per cent of Australians will be reaching out to a charity for help this Christmas, over 55 per centofthesepeoplewillbedoingsoforthefirst time.

DonationstotheSalvationArmy’sChristmas Appeal can be made by visiting salvationarmy. org.au or calling 13 SALVOS (13 72 58).

Donations can also be made at any Salvos Store.

Cade Lucas

Wearethrilledtosupporttheseorganisations as they drive positive change across the country,” said Mr Barker, adding that the grantsprogramalsorepresentedthevaluesand dedication of the bank’s employees. Our staff don’t just work here; they live in these communities. By nominating charities and contributing through salary donations, they directly uplift the causes that matter most to them,” he said.

We believe in the power of local leadership and community-driven solutions. These grants are not just a financial support; they are a way for us to stand alongside these communities and amplify their vital work.”

16 Days of Activism call

Hobsons Bay council is throwing its weight being the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign.

The annual campaign, which highlights the key issues of domestic violence facing the community runs from the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women on November 25, through to Human Rights Day on December 10.

As part of the campaign Hobsons Bay council is supporting activities that can help raise awareness in the community. These include a morning tea at the Laverton Community Hub on Tuesday, December 10, from 10am to noon. Held in conjunction with Zonta Club of Melbourne’s West, the morning tea will feature an address from author Sunenna Bella Sharma whose keynote speechwilldetailingherlivedexperience withfamilyviolenceandgamblingharm.

An art-based activity led by Zonta west will also take place on the day with the resulting artwork to be used in a display to raise awareness of the 16 days campaign.

During the 16 days, the front of Altona Theatre will be lit in orange and an awareness campaign will be visible around Hobsons Bay featuring messaging that highlights the link between respect and preventing violence – and recognising how seemingly harmless attitudes can escalate or excuse and justify harmful behaviour.

The colour orange is used around the world during 16 days campaigns as a symbol of hope for a world free from gender-based violence.

Hobsons Bay Salvation Army volunteer Matthew Crawford and captains Star Conliffe and Charlie Jung prepare Christmas hampers. (Damjan Janevski) 445247_01

Old fashioned but not obsolete

With the rise of AI threatening to put many employees and their professions out of business, Cade Lucas talks to two tradesmen whose jobs are endangered, but not extinct.

When it comes to choosing a career path, some follow their dreams, some follow their parents, some fall into careers by accident, while the vast majority choose occupations based on their education, qualifications, where they live and what they can get.

And then there’s people like Justin Nemeth who one day in 2015 needed to get one of his knives sharpened.

“I couldn’t find anyone and I just thought bugger it, I’ll learn it.”

The 45-year-old was true to his word.

Almost a decade on, Mr Nementh is a professional sharpener, operating his own business, Hone Sharpening, out of a workshop at his home in Bacchus Marsh on Melbourne’s north-western outskirts.

“I sharpen knives, I sharpen scissors, clipper blades, garden tools,” he said reeling a list of tools and utensils he commonly works on.

It’s an explanation that isn’t really necessary given the job of a sharpener is pretty straight forward.

What’s less obvious though is that there are still people like Mr Nemeth who do it for a living.

Afterall, isn’t sharpening one of these professions that a combination of technology and consumer habits have made obsolete?

Surely people who want to sharpen knives, scissors or tools or anything else with a blade can do so at home. Isn’t there a sharpening machine or device you can buy at the supermarket or Bunnings?

And even if there’s not, it must be cheaper to throw out blunt blades and buy new ones?

The answer to all these questions is, of course, yes.

But while the passing of time has made old industrial era professions like sharpening an endangered species, they’re not yet extinct.

Like Mr Nemeth, there are still people slaving away in suburban workshops and backyard sheds, pursuing careers that most of us assumed only existed in museums.

Another of those working against the dying of the industrial light is Steve Phillips, though rather than sharpening metal blades, he fashions them into shape.

Mr Phillips is a blacksmith at Waterside MetalArtStudioinFootscray,thoughinasign

that even the most time honoured professions aren’t immune to change, he prefers are more modern title to describe his job.

“I actually refer to myself as a metal smith now because I don’t just work with steel, but with copper, brass, aluminium, titanium, all sorts of metals,” said Mr Phillips, who originally trained as an environmental scientist, but switched to smashing bits of hot metal while travelling in Europe nearly 20 years ago.

“I had some time off and I went to Europe and I did some sculpture and blacksmithing at night school in Antwerp, Belgium.”

Other than a stint at night school 17 years ago,MrPhillips,likeMrNemeth,islargelyself taught, with no blacksmithing or sharpening apprenticeships available.

“You don’t need to be officially qualified,” said Mr Phillips of being a blacksmith.

“You can do a TAFE course, but it’s not called blacksmithing, it’s a certificate IV in metal fabrication and there’s only one place in Australiathatdoesit.UltimoTAFEinSydney.”

Despite his own lack for training, Mr Phillips also teaches blacksmithing to others, with classes at his Footscray studio accounting for most of his income.

“Corporate team building experiences and normal classes for the general public,” he said of the types of classes he offers.

“You can come and forge all sorts of unique things at the studio.”

Mr Phillips also runs an annual Blacksmithing festival, but when he does have customers,theycanhavehimdoingeverything from fixing a metal fence bent out of shape, to creating a whole new section.

Like Mr Phillips, Mr Nemeth supplements his income elsewhere, working for an NDIS provider and doing landscape photography when not sharpening blades.

But unlike metal or blacksmithing, demand for his work appears more constant.

“I’ve got chefs, I look after the dog grooming industry, hairdressers and barbers, all the horsey people because they clip their horses in winter,” Mr Nemeth said of his regular customers.

He said for people whose work requires sharp tools, paying a bit extra for his services was worth it.

“It’s $10 a knife to get them sharpened through me and you can’t buy a decent knife for $10,” he said, before adding a rather uncharitableassessmentofanyknifepurchased for that amount.

“It’s gonna be, excuse me, a piece of shit,” Mr Nemeth laughed.

While the job of blade sharpening might be old fashioned, the way it’s done in 2024 isn’t, with Mr Nemeth saying the old hand stone method had been consigned to history.

“It’s all machinery now,” he said.

“Much quicker and gives us a similar result.”

What type of machinery though depends on

what’s being sharpened.

“Yourkniveswillbedoneonavariablespeed belt grinder and that runs specialty belts to keep the steel cool,” he said.

“Scissors are done on what’s known as a flat hone, it’s basically a horizontal spinning disc with specialty arms that are fully adjustable to every angle up to 90 degrees. Clipper blades are done on a clipper machine, that’s another horizontal spinning plate that grinds a hollow into the blade.”

According to Mr Phillips, tools used for blacksmithing have also moved with the times.

“A modern day blacksmith is using all sorts of modern tools such as mig welders and grinders which the old worldy blacksmith didn’t have access too,” he said.

As with sharpening though, modern tools might have advanced blacksmithing and made it easier, but the fundamentals of applying heat to metal to make it malleable and then bashing it into shape, remain the same.

“The day to day activities (of a blacksmith) often incorporate techniques that have been aroundforhundredsifnotthousandsofyears,” said Mr Phillips who, now aged 57, estimates he’s got another 15 to 20 years left before hanging up his hammer and tongs for good.

Mr Nemeth wasn’t sure when he’d retire, but had no doubt that when he did, the job of sharpening blades would continue on without him.

“It’ll be here till the end of days.”

Blacksmith Steve Phillips at his Footscray studio. (Pictures: Ljubica Vrankovic) 444688

Sharpener Justin Nemeth working at his home in Bacchus Marsh. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 443487

Handel’s ‘Messiah’ returns to Williamstown Town Hall

Hallelujah!

Once again this famous chorus will fill the Williamstown Town Hall when the Camberwell Chorale and the Camerata Orchestra perform Handel’s ‘Messiah’ on Saturday 30 November at 7:30pm.

It is a tradition at this time of the year for Handel’s‘Messiah’tobeheardinconcerthalls and churches around the world. This joyous and powerful work speaks to all humanity with the hope that people can learn to live in peace.

The four magnificent soloists for this occasion will be Lee Abrahmsen, Kerrie Bolton, Paul Biencourt and Manfred Pohlenz.

The conductor for the performance will be Douglas Heywood OAM, who has led the Camberwell Chorale for 50 years. Doug is well-known to the millions of viewers who enjoy the spirit of Christmas at the GTV 9 Carols by Candlelight screened live from the Myer Music Bowl on Christmas Eve every year. Doug is the second conductor of the Camberwell Chorale, having followed on from founder Dr Hermann Schildberger who led the Camberwell Chorale for the first 30 years.

Doug has conducted Handel’s ‘Messiah’ on many occasions, and has conducted Hallelujah Chorus well over 100 times. He says he no longer requires music to conduct from, as he finally has it from memory!

Come and experience the joy and energy of the ‘Hallelujah Chorus’ in Handel’s ‘Messiah’ in the Williamstown Town Hall on Saturday 30 November.

Tickets can be purchased using the QR code on the flyer, or by visiting www.hobsonsbaytickets.com.au/whatson/ handel’s-messiah2024

Seagulls mentor juniors

Williamstown and Port Melbourne football clubs have been fierce rivals for decades, but when it comes to Williamstown FC and the Port of Melbourne, it’s a different story.

The Seagulls Sessions, a series of junior coaching clinics run by the football club and fundedbytheportoperator,attractedthan600 primary school students from across Hobsons Bay and Maribyrnong in 2024, with 2025 shaping up to be even bigger.

According to Port of Melbourne’s 2024 sustainability report released on Wednesday, November 27, 610 students attended the clinics this year at six different primary schools throughout the inner-west.

Williamstown Football Club chief executive Ashley Baker said the seagull sessions wouldn’t be possible without the support of the Port of Melbourne, a club sponsor.

“By strengthening youth pathways and expanding outreach efforts, our partnership marks a pivotal step in our commitment to creating meaningful change both on and off

the field,” Mr Baker said.

Williamstown MP Melissa Horne congratulated Williamstown FC and Port of Melbourne for kicking goals in the local community.

“It’s great to see local kids gaining skills, confidence, and a love for sport thanks to this incredible community partnership,“ she said.

Port of Melbourne chief executive Saul Cannon said the communities of Hobsons Bay and Maribyrnong meant a lot to Port of Melbourne.

“As a city-port located among growing communities, we take pride in partnering with a local treasure like Williamstown Football Club,” Mr Cannon said.

The Williamstown Football Club is now planning for the 2025 seagull sessions and is seeking primary schools in Hobsons Bay and Maribyrnong interested in hosting one of the clinics.

To express interest, contact: admin@ williamstownfc.com.au.

Briefs

Battery fire

Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) responded to a fire in a building at a recycling facility in Laverton North on the evening of Thursday, November 21. Firefighters arrived to find heavy smoke billowing from the factory and encountered the sound of explosions as they tried to locate the fire. Crews found the fire in a container holding batteries marked for recycling and managed to prevent it spreading to multiple batteries and other materials within the building. Three workers at the facility suffered smoke inhalation. The fire was brought under control at 8.34pm, with the cause deemed to be batteries overheating and igniting.

Drug operation

Police conducted an operation targeting drug activity in and around the Footscray CBD and Footscray Station last week following concerns raised by the community. Police conducted 21 drug and controlled substance searches and executed 12 search warrants during Operation OKAMI, with one person issued an infringement notice after being found with a weapon, while another was found in breach of an intervention order. One drug diversion notice, one caution and one council infringement for open alcohol were also issued.

FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au

Maribyrnong & Hobsons Bay Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Seagull Session participant Jude, 7, handballs to his brother Atticus, 11, as Williamstown Football Club staff Luke Attard, Maurice ‘Mocca’ Thurston, Lauren Wood, and Ebony Thomas watch on.

(Damjan Janevski) 444792_04

Deck the halls with these Christmas tree trends for 2024

Christmas tree trends for 2024 reflect a mix of sustainability, personalisation, and modern aesthetics, offering something for everyone. Here’s a breakdown of some key trends to inspire your holiday decor this year.

Multiple trees

Many families are embracing the idea of multiple trees. The primary tree may serve as the focal point in the living room, while secondary trees, often smaller, are used to decorate other rooms like bedrooms or dining areas.

Themed and personalised trees

Customisation is key in 2024, with themed decorations reflecting hobbies, favourite movies, or nostalgic elements. Examples include vintage retro designs, nature-inspired looks with natural ornaments, or colorful setups that highlight bold personality.

Trending colours

Christmas tree colours for 2024 range from bold and vibrant to sophisticated and muted:

• Emerald green and gold for a regal look

• Rose gold and ivory for a chic and elegant feel

• Sunset orange and teal for tropical vibes

• Midnight blue and silver or plum and bronze for a luxurious touch

Sustainability

Potted Christmas trees are increasingly popular as an eco-friendly alternative to traditional cut trees. These trees can be replanted after the holiday season, allowing them to grow and become a long-term part of your family’s traditions. They also come in various sizes, making them suitable for both small spaces and larger homes.

Minimalist

Scandinavian style

This trend emphasises simplicity and natural beauty, using neutral color palettes, sparse ornaments, and organic materials like wood and wool. The aim is to create a serene, cozy atmosphere with understated elegance.

Alternative shapes and designs

Space-saving and unconventional tree shapes are gaining traction:

• Wall-mounted trees: Ideal for small apartments or minimalist spaces, these use garlands or lights arranged in a tree-like form on walls.

• Upside-down trees: A bold choice for those who want to make a dramatic statement while freeing up floor space.

• Spiral or wooden sculptures: Sleek, modern designs for contemporary homes

These trends emphasise creativity, functionality, and sustainability, offering exciting ways to elevate your holiday decor while reflecting personal tastes and values. Whether you choose a natural, eco-conscious option or go for a bold and contemporary design, 2024 is all about making your Christmas tree a unique expression of holiday cheer.

Tennis a smash with Bayside students

Former Australian tennis star Mark Phillippoussis famously hailed from Williamstown and judging by the popularity of the sport at Bayside P-12 College, there could be a few more tennis stars coming out of Hobsons Bay in the future too.

The Williamstown school has had a tennis program for almost two decades and according to Bayside physical education teacher Natalie Tancredi, interest had never been stronger.

“Students have to try out for the program, it’s select entry,” said Ms Tancredi of the program which is open to students from years 7 to 10 who play 11 hours of tennis per week as

BUSINESS PROFILE

part of their day to day curriculum.

The school currently has 33 students involved in the program, playing both singles and doubles on the 11 courts at Bayside’s Williamstown campus.

And while there hasn’t been anyone on the level of Mark Phillippoussis’ produced by the program, Ms Tancredi said plenty of good players had still come out of the school and gone onto to bigger and better things.

“Often students will go off to US colleges, that’s often the pathway they take or they become coaches themselves and some continue playing outside of the college,” she said.

Compassionate care for seniors and NDIS participants

NurseNextDoorisproudtobringprofessional and compassionate care to Melbourne’s western suburbs, supporting clients with disabilitiesandseniorswithpersonalisedhome care services.

With three dedicated franchises — Melbourne West led by Garvita Patel (RN), Werribee led by Eugene Martin and Shalini George (RN), and Sunbury led by Amandeep Kaur (RN) — Nurse Next Door combines clinical expertise with a genuine commitment to making lives better.

For NDIS clients, Nurse Next Door provides a wide range of services tailored to individual needs, including personal care, support with daily activities, and specialised nursing care. The goal is to empower individuals with disabilities to live confidently and independently, with care that is as flexible as it is reliable.

For aged care clients, Nurse Next Door is proud to be approved Home Care Package (HCP) providers, offering some of the lowest fees in the market. This means seniors can

maximise their funding to receive high-quality services that allow them to remain in the comfort of their own homes. From personal caretocomplexnursingneeds,careisdesigned tomeeteveryrequirementwithprofessionalism and compassion.

At Nurse Next Door, every care journey begins with a free, two-hour, non-obligatory Caring Consult conducted by a registered nurse.

This consult ensures that every aspect of the client’s needs is carefully assessed, allowing us

to tailor a personalised care plan and match clientswiththebestcaregiversfortheirspecific requirements.

Whether it’s NDIS or aged care, our team is committed to providing the highest level of support to clients of all ages.

If you or your loved ones need reliable, compassionate care in Melbourne’s west, contact us on 1300 600 247 to learn more about how we can help.

Because care isn’t just what we do—it’s who we are.

Some of the students and coaches involved in this year’s Bayside P-12 College tennis program.

Year 10 students Jake (above left) and Anastasia (top), year 8 student Arya (above), and Angelantonio (left) were among the 33 students who took part in this year’s tennis program.

(Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 441101

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

Volunteers needed

Join the Hobsons Bay Community Fund (HBCF) as a committee member to support and strengthen your local community. It is seeking to fill the executive office role, (secretarial, governance and event management skills) as well as other voluntary positions.

 eo@hbcommunityfund.org.au

Festive function

Williamstown Community and Education Centre is holding a free festive season function at Joan Kirner House, 14 Thompson Street, Williamstown, on Wednesday, December 18, at noon. Free food, door prizes, Santa visit, and more. No RSVP required, just turn up. Everyone welcome.

 9397 6168

Walking football (soccer)

For anyone aged 50 & over, any fitness level – no running allowed. This is a social activity for fun and a bit of exercise, no experience necessary. Supported by Hobsons Bay Council and Football Victoria, this is a free activity each Wednesday Morning from 10am to 11am indoors at the Sports Centre, Andrew Park Drive (Queens Rd), Altona.

 Mike, 0423 291 708

Computer classes

Scams, MyGov, software, online shopping, banking, email, whatever. We all need to keep up with the internet, IT, computers, and changing technology. Classes every day of the week , mornings and afternoons, in Williamstown and Altona North.

 Lynne, 9397 6168

Sing with WIllin Wimmin choir

Discover the joy of group singing with the friendly women at WiIlin Wimmin choir in Williamstown. New members are always welcome, no audition. The group sings contemporary, folk, choral and world repertoire in acapella style. The choir meets Wednesday evenings during school terms, 7.30 - 9.30pm at the Dennis Reserve Centre, 109 Ferguson Street, Williamstown.  willinwimmin.org.au or contact us at willin. wimmin@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 www.facebook.com/pointgellibrandrotary, or Pam, 0418 347 691, or rotarypointgellibrand@gmail.com

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

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.

 9369 1034 or secretary@lavertonbowls.com.au

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 check 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

Prep for employment course

Seeking a change in career or how to improve your employability? Receive face-to-face help with job searches, resumes, interviews, upskilling and more in a prep for employment course. Register today. At 43 Mason Street, Newport.

 9391 8504, or outlets@outletsco-op.com.au

Intro to computers course

For beginners and those looking to refresh skills. The computer lab is fully equipped for interactive and hands-on learning. Accessing information, resources, file management, emails, Microsoft Office, AI and online safety. At 43 Mason Street, Newport.

 9391 8504, or outlets@outletsco-op.com.au

Everyday English language course

For women of all ages and backgrounds with English as a second language. Practice speaking English in different situations, and make new friends. Fridays, 10am-noon. At 43 Mason Street, Newport.

 9391 8504, or outlets@outletsco-op.com.au

Laverton Community Choir

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

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

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 o ymob1933@yahoo.com.au

Free English conversation class Is English your second language? Do you want to improve your English skills and meet new people? Practise English conversation in informal interactive group sessions. Light refreshments provided. Mondays during school terms, from 1-3pm, at the Altona Library.

 Joe Pellone, 0431 915 970, or joepellone@gmail.com, or Jill Mackenzie, 0439 994 705, or jill.mackenzie111@gmail.com

Willy walking group

A free walking group meets every Wednesday, during school terms, at 10.15-11am, from Joan Kirner House, 14 Thompson Street, Williamstown.  Tahlia, 9397 6168

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

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Wyndham resident and AFL Pakistan Men’s and Women’s coach Michael Gallus. (Damjan Janveski) 445430_01

MY PLACE

Irish immigrant and West Footscray resident Máiréad Doyle was recently awarded a Churchill Fellowship. She talked to Cade Lucas about her life in Maribyrnong.

What’s your connection to Maribyrnong?

My partner and I migrated to Australia in 2005, having bought a home in the Footscray area before we even arrived here. It was an adventure that was supposed to last maybe three years. We never left.

What do you like about living here?

It is one of the truly multicultural areas of Melbourne, which was really important to us when we were deciding where to live. It’s close to everything – the city, the beach and the airport, and the rest of my family!

What, if anything, would you change about the area?

I would love us to have more knowledge about, and to celebrate, the area’s Aboriginal heritage. Walking around, there is little or no acknowledgement of the people who have been custodians of the land for thousands of years. I know the council supported an Aboriginal Heritage study about 25 years ago. It would be good to see the area’s Aboriginal cultural heritage better acknowledged and marked, so that we can all learn more.

Where is your favourite local place to spend time? I love being near water, and so the walking tracks by the river are a favourite. I love the big golden statue of the Heavenly Queen – she has always been a source of comfort and hope for me.

Tell us something people would be surprised to know about you I am a huge sci-fi fan. I grew up imagining a world where artificial intelligence was ethically bound and a force for good in the world. It is partially what prompted

me to apply for a Churchill Fellowship to investigate the impact of AI on the spread of misinformation and disinformation in elections - so that I can help to influence the pathway to AI having a positive impact on our lives.

Christmas craft

Eachmonth,StephanieMartinezwillsharean exciting craft project designed to inspire and spark creativity. Stephanie starred in the first season of Making It on Network 10, where she discoveredandignitedherpassionforcrafting. Join Stephanie as she explores the endless possibilities of crafting and turn everyday materials into something extraordinary. This month, Stephanie is getting into the festive spirit with a crafty reindeer.

Christmas cheer reindeer

Materials: 16 mini craft sticks 2 googly eyes Brown and gold foam paper Twine 1 red gem

Equipment: Glue gun / glue stick Scissors Craft knife Craft mat

Step 1

Body: Glue 2 craft sticks side by side for one side of the body and repeat this with 2 more sticks for the other side of the body. Glue them together to form one body.

Step 2

Legs: Glue 2 craft sticks at an angle on one side of the body for the legs. Glue 2 more craft sticks on the other side, lining them up with the first set of legs.

Step 3

Step 5

Antlers and ears: Cut out 2 antler shapes from brown glitter foam. Glue the antlers and the ears (half craft sticks) to the back of the head.

Step 6

Hanging string: Attach a piece of twine between the antlers. Glue the face to the head.

Step 7

Eyes and nose: Glue 2 googly eyes to the face. Cut an oval shape from the gold glitter foam for the nose base and glue in place. Glue the red gem for the nose.

Step 8

Tail: Take 1 craft stick, cut it in half, and glue one of the halves to the back of the body to form the tail. head.

Attach the head to the body.

Stephanie Martinez.

Máiréad Doyle of West Footscray was recently awarded a Churchill Fellowship to study the impact of AI. (Damjan Janevski) 445172_07

Giddy-up for heavy horse display

The National Clydesdale and Heavy Horse Festival is returning to Werribee South on January 18-19.

More than your typical equestrian escapade, the public will be treated to Australia’s largest display of heavy horse breeds.

Among the gentle gee-gee giants will be Clydedales, Shires, Percherons, Drum Horses, Gypsys Cobs, Haflingers, Highland Ponies, Friesians and Fjords.

‘Hands on’ interactions with horses, a photo scavenger hunt, show ring activities and the chance to sit in a horse-drawn vehicle will be just some of the ways to have fun.

There will be educational workshops such as led stud heavy breeds, heavy harness, working draft, long reining/obstacle course, ridden heavy horse and rider classes.

Equine experts from across the world will be attending to judge the best talent, among the names will be Terry Edge from Scotland, Colin Brown from NSW, as well as Elsa Avery and Kellie Hamblin from closer to home.

Fancy dress and flair will not go unappreciated, as dragons, elephants, circus clowns, Spanish ladies and a Christmas tree have stolen the show in past years.

The festival is not all fun and games, but an

important way to raise public awareness for conservation.

Many of these breeds have found themselves on the World’s Rarest Animal list and are either endangered, almost extinct or severely challenged – not least of which the Clydesdale. With no entry fee for children under-16 and the free Kids Korner, youngsters will be sure to make priceless memories.

The National Equestrian Centre is on K Road Werribee South the event will kick off at 8.30am on Saturday, January 18, and 9am on Sunday, January 19.

Jaidyn Kennedy

Foamy entertainment at fun run

The much-anticipated 5K Foam Fest fun run is back and kicking off on Saturday, November 30, in Myrniong.

The 5K Foam Fest is set to be bigger and better, with 25 of the most exciting obstacles, including the world’s largest inflatable waterslide, slip-and-slides, mucky mud pits, and the all-new Corkscrew.

Shakespeare will be performed in Footscray with a Christmas twist next month.

The Macbeths is an intimate and tense reimagining of Shakespeare’s original text abridged to just the titular couple.

Set at Christmas, a woman anxiously waits for news of her husband fighting in a bloody civil war. When she receives news that he’s returning home a war hero and supernatural providence has declared he will be king a deadly plan is setinmotionthatwillunitethemandrip them apart.

Starring real life couple and theatre makers Cassandra Hart and Robert Lloyd, The Macbeths is the latest in a series alternative Shakespearan plays the pair have appeared in, including Shakespeare Aliens, Shakespeare Ghostbusters and William Shakespeare’s Reservoir Dogs.

Co-directed by Sharmini Kumar of 24 Carrot Productions and Darby Turnbull of Misfit Toys, The Macbeths will be performed at Footscray’s Bluestone Church from December 11 to 14.

“TheMacbethsisourfirstpresentation of a classical text and we’re very excited for our audience to experience the resonance of the pairs character arcs and connectwiththeirdesires,ambitionsand sorrows that are deeply relatable to this day,” said Ms Turnbull of the production which will be performed by (flameless, LED) candlelight.

Compared to a traditional race-to-the-finish run, couples, groups, team builders and families of all ages can enjoy the ‘fun run’ as it’s suitable for all skill levels – from runner to walker.

The5KFoamFestisalsoapivotalfundraising event for long-term partner Make-A-Wish

The obstacles are combined with 2.5 million cubic feet of foam pumped into the course throughout the event.

Foundation. Make-A-Wish receives all money raised through participant fundraising.

Over the past 15 years, 5K Foam Fest have raisedmorethan$5millionforcharitypartners, including $100,000 for the Make-A-Wish Foundation last year.

The5KFoamFestwillbeheldatSt.Anne’s,64 GarrardsLane,Myrniong.Detials:5kfoamfest. com/australia/locations/melbourne/

Artist has painting and poetry in city show

St Alban’s Saidin Salkic will soon shine alongside a host of public figures, including South Australian premier Peter Malinauskas and Socceroos legend Archie Thompson in a unique AMES event highlighting refugees.

A filmmaker and artist, Mr Salkic will show off a painting of his as well as recite a poem about life as a refugee.

He said after many exhibitions throughout the local area, he is excited to represent the area on a larger scale.

The event is celebrating the annual launch of AMES’ publication ‘Heartlands - at the heart of our identity.

Migrant and refugee communities across the west are invited to view a range of cultural and artistic pieces, as all contributors’ work is collated into a book.

As a contributor, Mr Salkic is extremely proud to be involved.

“I’m exhibiting a fantastic print of my digital painting called Strawberry lovers base, and I will be reading a poem that I wrote, and my story will be part of the publication,” he said.

For those who can’t travel to the city, Mr Salkic urges them to view his permanent art installation in Sunshine at the RT Pollard Gardens.

He said his project ‘Brimbank Poles’ was created with students of Sunshine Primary School and is a hidden gem in Sunshine.

The Heartlands event takes place on Tuesday, December 3 from 4pm to 6pm.

It will take place at Clayton Utz, on Level 18 of 333 Collins Street.

ShesaidsettingthetheplayatChristmas wouldprovideamorbidalternativetothe traditional entertainment on offer at that time of the year.

“What’s Christmas without a little marital strife, murder, grief and madness!”

Tickets: https://www.trybooking.com/ events/landing/1290434

Cade Lucas

Saidin Salkic with some his art work ‘The Observation’. (Damjan Janevski) 443424_01

The Macbeths co-director Darby Turnbull, outside the Bluestone Church in Footscray where the play will be performed next month. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 438183_01

The 5K Foam Fest kicks off at Myrniong on Saturday, November 30. (Supplied)

Bill Jackson on a horse-drawn cart.

(Kathryn Potempski)

SPORTS QUIZ

1. Minnesota Vikings player Cam Bynum recently honoured which Australian figure with a celebration dance during a game?

2. How many rounds was the recent boxing match between Jake Paul and Mike Tyson?

3. Teams from which state won both matches in the second week of the 2024 AFL Women’s finals series?

4. Supercars driver Jaxon Evans recently crashed during qualifying for which event?

5. Which team had the first pick in the 2024 AFL draft?

6. The 2025 NRL season opening match will be played in which US city?

7. A stand honouring which cricketing legend was unveiled at Melbourne’s Junction Oval?

Which A-League Men’s team joined the league in the 2020/21 season?

What is the record number of goals kicked by an individual player in an AFL Women’s match?

Who will coach the South Sydney Rabbitohs in 2025?

The Women’s Tennis Association was founded by which former world No.1 tennis player?

12. Which team won the gold medal in women’s rugby at Paris 2024?

13. The Australian Open is held annually in January in which Australian city?

14. Luke Humphries is the current world No.1 in which sport?

15. In which year was the first State of Origin series played?

16. Which cricketer is older: Mark or Steve Waugh?

17. Which former Wallabies player was elected chairman of World Rugby?

18. Which AFL team will own the primetime Friday night slot with seven games in the opening 16 rounds?

19. The new Gold Coast Suns home guernsey will feature a red logo on what colour background?

20. What item was returned to Roosters star Millie Elliott after it was stolen from her home days after the NRLW Grand Final?

21. Apart from the usual Friday to Sunday, on which day will AFL matches be played for most rounds in 2025?

22. Australia were defeated by which cricketing nation in a recent three-match ODI series on home soil?

23. Treasurethe Moment won which horse race during the Melbourne Spring Carnival?

24. High-profile players from which sport are complaining about the poor manufacturing quality of the balls that are being used?

25. The Ryder Cup is a bi-annual tournament in which sport?

26. Arne Slot is the manager of which famous English soccer club?

27. Who is Usman Khawaja’s new opening batting partner in the cricket Test series against India?

28. Which Victorian-based AFL team will play some home games in Western Australia, ending its similar arrangement with Tasmania?

29. Freddie Freeman was MVP in which recentlyconcluded North American-based sporting series?

30. WBBL batter Lizelle Lee made history as the first woman to do what in the cricketing tournament?

PUZZLES

ACROSS

1 Unfathomable (7)

5 Reprieve (7)

9 Most pungent (9)

10 Facetious (5)

11 The capital of Spain (6)

12 Former US Supreme Court Justice Thurgood – (8)

14 Hate (6)

15 Monarch (4)

19 Musical instrument (4)

20 Leader of the X-men (6)

24 Self-government (8)

25 Bottle for the table (6)

27 Belonging to them (5)

28 From Oslo, eg (9)

29 Broadcast, transmitted (7)

30 Ways (7)

DOWN

1 Undertake (6)

2 Surrenders (6)

3 Island group in the Indian Ocean (8)

4 Ogle (4)

5 Alluring (10)

6 One who goes naked (6)

7 Relating to lines on a weather map (8)

8 Large logs traditionally burnt at Christmas time (4,4)

13 Looked again (10)

16 Of no consequence (2,6)

17 City in Québec (8)

18 Deteriorating (8)

21 Liveliness (6)

22 Gambling house (6)

23 Game played on a court (6)

26 Stiffly neat (4)

1 Which US comedian wrote the

novella Shopgirl? 2 True or false: the Venus de Milo was carved with no arms? 3 The Mekong

9

RATINGS

Looks: 7/10

Performance: 6/10

Safety: 6/10

Thirst: 7/10

Practicality: 7.5/10

Comfort: 7/10

Tech: 7/10

Value: 7/10

Overall: 6.8/10

Hybrid MG3 drives tiny car value

By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring

The MG3 is a light hatch and the smallest model offered by the company.

It’s a car built very much to a price, targeted at first time drivers and those who haven’t got much to spend.

Although the latest model scores the same disappointing three stars for safety as its predecessor, ANCAP which tests the cars reveals it narrowly missed out on a four-star result and its comments are encouraging.

Withalittleworkperhaps,thecompanymay be able to turn the result around (although the whole safety thing seems to be lost on buyers looking for a bargain).

Styling

The new MG3 is edgier and sharper-looking than its predecessor.

As always it is difficult to nail down the grades and prices of cars offered.

MG3 now comes with a standard petrol engineandnowalsoasamoredesirablehybrid.

There are two grades, Excite and Essence, priced from $23,990 and $25,990 respectively. Excite + (Hybrid) is $27,990 and Essence + (Hybrid) is $29,990.

Driveaway pricing varies from state to state.

Our test vehicle is the MG3 Essence with a standard petrol- engine, paired with a CVT-style continuously variable auto.

Standard equipment includes cloth trim and single-zone air conditioning, with rear air vents, manual-adjust seats, 16-inch alloy wheels, push-button start, adaptive cruise control, auto halogen headlights, LED daytime running lights, rear parking sensors, electric auto fold side mirrors and follow me home lights.

Essence adds a sunroof, LED headlights, keyless entry, rain-sensing wipers, leather steeringwheel,combinationclothandartificial leather trim and a front centre armrest.

On a more positive note MGS is covered by an industry leading 10-year, 250,000km warranty.

Infotainment

Infotainment consists of a 10.25-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth with limited voice

control, AM/FM radio, wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and six-speaker audio.

Stepping up to the Essence adds DAB+ digital radio and satellite navigation.

There’saUSB-AandUSB-Cportinthefront, alongwitha12-voltoutlet,plusanotherUSB-A port in the back and another USB-A port locatedneartherearvisionmirror,presumably for powering dash cams and the like.

Safety

And now for the big one, safety.

The previous model now in runout remains unrated for safety.

Reading between the lines MG put in some hard yards to lift the safety reputation of the MG3, but it still gets a miserable three stars from ANCAP.

Six airbags and a reverse camera are standard.

Also standard is Autonomous emergency braking (Car-to-Car, Vulnerable Road User and Junction Assist) as well as a lane support system with lane keep assist (LKA), lane departure warning (LDW) and emergency lane keeping (ELK), are standard, together with traffic jam assist, steering, acceleration, braking assistance, blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.

An advanced speed assistance system (SAS) with speed sign recognition is also standard.

Essence ups the ante with a 360 degree surround-view camera system.

Engines/transmissions

A revised 1.5-litre four cylinder petrol- engine produces 81kW at 6000 rpm of power and 142Nm at 4500 rpm, slightly down on the previous model which offered 82kW and 150Nm.

In comparison the Hybrid delivers a combined 155kW and 425Nm which is, quite frankly, amazing.

The engine in our test vehicle is hooked up to a CVT-style auto, with drive to the front wheels.

It replaces a four-speed auto - allegedly.

Driving

When the MG3 was released a couple of years ago, it was difficult to get a drive in one.

Word had it the company was trying to keep itawayfromthemediaandthefewreviewsthat did emerge were far from flattering.

Safety was an issue.

Fast forward and the company says the new model has been completely redesigned, with a newplatform,newinteriorandexteriordesign, superior performance and improved fuel economy.

Our time had come.

MG3 remains a small hatch and as such rear legroom and boot space are obviously limited, but at least rear seat passengers get air outlets.

The seats are reasonably comfortable, but the steering wheel lacks reach adjustment so finding the ideal driving position could be a chore.

The touchscreen and instrument panels have been replaced with more responsive, free-standing units.

However, their operation could be more intuitive, and it took us some time to work out to activate cruise control (it’s the little steering wheel icon on the steering wheel).

Driving the car for the first time, it is impressively quiet inside, making conversation easy.

Our phone took a couple of goes to hook up,

but after that it was reconnected without any dramas.

Although it comes with CarPlay and AndroidAuto,bothrequireacableandwireless charging is conspicuously absent.

Voice activation is also limited to apps, or so the message said, and the built in navigation in Essence would not respond to commands. With a 45-litre tank, fuel consumption is rated at 6.0L/100km and it takes standard unleaded.

CO2 emissions are a claimed 139 g/km.

Performanceisinaword…underwhelming. It’sokayonceitisupandrunning,andnolonger under any kind of stress. But acceleration is a challenge, with little assistance from the CVT whichfeelsandactslikeafour-speedauto-and overtaking is a no, no.

Two drive modes are offered, Normal and Eco,accessedbyflickingthetransmissionlever left or right.

In Eco mode, however, one can change gears manually, by pushing backwards or forwards, with eight steps or gears from which to choose. This is the only mode that brings any joy to the act of driving this car.

TheMG3instandardpetrolguiseatleastwill appeal only to someone who has no previous experience of driving.

It’s okay for getting from A to B, but we’d hate to see what it goes like with four people aboard - pretty slowly at a guess. On the upside, ride and handling are okay. There’s plenty of body roll in corners, but unlikesomecarswe’vedriven,theMG3doesn’t get out of shape.

It doesn’t use much fuel. We were getting a long-term average of 7.6L/100km and short-term average of 6.7L/100km.

A space saver spare is provided in the event of a flat tyre.

Summing up

Looking forward to driving the hybrid version. Sure, it’s $4000 more, but it sounds like the extra power could transform this car. We’d suggest dropping the petrol-model altogether and lowering the price of the hybrid. Those interested should also check out the Suzuki Swift which is available for around the same price with a hybrid.

The new MG3 is edgier and sharper-looking than its predecessor. (Pictures: Supplied)

Weather presents a different challenge

Temperatures were in the mid-30s on Saturday as the latest round of weekend sport got underway. Many junior competitions were cancelled as were several bowls matches. There was still plenty of action and Star Weekly photographer Ljubica Vrankovic was in the thick of the action.

Left: Tullamarine’s batters wait to bat. (445372_05) Centre: Greenvale’s Benjamin Cliff. (445369_01) Right: Sunbury United’s Senura Perera. (445374_04)

Footscray United’s Frank Hoang. (445370_05)

Club Sunbury’s Mark Cowan. (445373_01)

Above: Nirmana Fernando takes a wicket for the Greenvale Kangaroos. (445369_06)

Gisborne’s Matthew Barake. (445374_06)

Sunbury celebrates a wicket. (445372_09)

PEGS’ Samitha Milinda Sepala. (445370_01)

Club Sunbury’s Glenn Davies. (445373_02)

Smith takes on new challenge leading Willy CYs

New Williamstown CYMS women’s coach Xavier Smith wants to continue the legacy of the program in the Victorian Amateur Football Association.

Smith, who has been an assistant coach for North Melbourne’s Victorian football League side, takes over from the CYs inaugural women’s coach Lawrence Henry. Smith aid the opportunity to coach his own side was one of the big things for him.

“It’s really exciting,” he said. “It’s not something that I was condensing during the year.

“It popped up and I was excited to come on board. Knowing the Willy CYs was such a great club that had such great success for women’s program, it was something willing to jump on and see what I could really do.”

?Smith said he spoke to a lot of people at the club and said he got a real sense of community. He said a lot of people feel like the club is home and it was something he wanted to be part of.

“Knowing what great pathway they have for

all female footballers is something important,“ he said. They’ve got a really strong connection withWillyjuniorsandWillyVFLandknowing that there is that strong connection between the three clubs, that the girls can play footy from Auskick all the way up to the elite end is something that really attracted me to it.“

As well as coaching at North Melbourne, Smith works at the club.

He said he was looking to bring a bit of that professilism to the CYs.

“Speaking to a lot of the girls from this year they’re really wanting to take their football and the team to the next level, hopefully i can bring a bit of that high performance expertise to the club.“

TheCYSfinishedontopofpremierBdivision in their first season at that level. The side was knocked out in the finals in straight sets.

Smith said they want to build on this year

“It’s very easy to look at it as an unsuccessful year, I certainly see it as a very successful year,“ he said. “It was the first year that the club has field two female teams.

“The reserves come so close to making finals in their first year. Obviously the seniors finishing undefeated on top of the ladder and just missing out on a grand final by a kick, there’s definitely that motivation to go that next level.

“I would describe it speaking to some of

Hewett is on a crusade

By Peter Howe

Sliding door moments are as true in sport as in everyday life, just ask this month’s Don Deeble nominee, Astin Hewett.

He won a scholarship to Maribyrnong Sports Academy for football and he was focused on that dream.

After all, his extended family connections had made AFL lists and he was playing in the Coates Talent League with the Western Jets. Life was a dream, his targets had been set.

Hewett started Auskick when he was five and played with Point Cook Centrals until under-16s with top five Western Football League best and fairest finishes along the way.

He moved to Keilor to play under former AFL star Mick McGuane and made it to the Jets.

While at MSA, he was introduced to another sport, gridiron. It was when things changed.

“I was big for my age and adapted to the skills required to play easily,” he said. “There was no sport played in 2020 or 2021.

“Gridiron was a summer sport in Victoria but overlapped with the start of the AFL season.”

Hewett joined the Western Crusaders powerhouse gridiron team late in 2021 having found a love for the sport.

“I was still invested in AFL but this new sport was intoxicating,” Hewett reflected.

“Western Jets season started in 2022 at the same time the gridiron season was entering finals. “I chose the Jets, the Crusaders lost their semi final after having a great season.”

While he chose the Jets, Hewett still decided to try out for the Victorian under-19 gridiron team at the end of 2022.

He was unsuccessful but it fuelled a fire within him and his focus became, “I must work harder”.

“Thegridironseason2022-2023wasthemost fun I ever had playing team sport,” he said.

“Our under-16 team dominated the season.”

Hewett was named in the Gridiron Victorian team in 2023 and then later in 2024.

Still not sure which sport was for him, Hewett played three games for the Jets in 2023 as a tall defender and by his own admission they weren’t great.

After his best pre-season, it ended quickly when he broke his finger in round three.

“Then through a series of mishaps and a further stress fracture of my foot I was unable to get back into training properly and missed the remainder of the season,” he said.

The two injuries meant that Hewett couldn’t start running until April the following year.

Confined to walking only, he decided to put up his hand for Australian Outback gridiron under-20 selection.

“I was full disclosure to my coaches [on my injuries],” he said.

“In the two days of tryouts I completed all of the off field coaching but just threw the ball on field.

“The coaches had seen enough. I made the Australian team.”

Hewett was the second youngest in the team and one of the two quarterbacks chosen.

“I was given the all clear to train,” he said of the lead up.

“I spent four days a week in the gym undergoing a strength and conditioning program to get into the best physical condition I could. Throwing practice was held every Saturday.”

The Australian Outback gridiron team landed in Canada in June to play in the IFAF World Championships.

Hewett was named captain and starting quarterback.

“It was an amazing experience,” he said. “Unfortunately, we only won one of our three

games, but it was the first time an Australian team had won a game in a tournament for many years.”

Hewett said he’s a dual threat on the field and describes himself as a leader who leads by example.

He tries to set the standards and it’s afraid to hold his teammates to account.

Having decided to focus on just gridiron, Hewett is keen for what the future holds.

“I have just finished my last year 12 exam and hope to be offered a place in the Deakin University sports science course,” he said. “USA College football would be amazing but let’s see how that all unfolds.”

The Don Deeble Sports Star Award is sponsored by the Yarraville Club Cricket Club, Strathmore Community Bank, the Deer Park Club, Ascot Vale Sports and Trophies and Star Weekly

If you would like to nominate a monthly winner or attend a dinner, contact at swrsportsclub@gmail.com or 0408 556 631.

the girls, they’re proud of the year last year, certainly not happy with how it finished.“

The CYs are back at training thus week. Smith said they were looking for players for both sides.

Sports shorts

Big V

The Big V youth qualification tournament is back for 2025. Launched in 2024, the series involves teams that finished at the top of their divisions and others that finished at the bottom of their competition. As part of the series, Hume City Broncos youth league men are trying to qualify for the youth championship men, Westgate, Altona Gators, Sunbury Jets and Whittlesea Pacers are all trying to qualify for youth league men 1, and Wyndham, the Broncos, Pacers, Jets and Craigieburn Eagles are trying to qualify for youth league women 1.

Western FL

Laverton has opened applications for a coach for next year’s Western Football League women’s season. The club said on social media that the team is searching for someone who has good communication and leadership skills, passion for developing performance and game plan, ability to provide, receive and act on feedback and willing to seek coaching accreditation. Details: lavertonmagpiesfootballclub@gmail. com

Premier Cricket

Footscray lost a high scoring affair in Victorian Premier Cricket on Saturday. Facing Northcote in a one-dayer, the Bulldogs fielded first. Northcote made 5-255 with Max Birthisel taking two wickets for the Bulldogs. Despite Jack Prestwidge making 97, the Bulldogs fell short, finishing 9-242. After five rounds, the Bombers sit in 12th spot.

VTCA

Footscray Angliss has already claimed first innings points in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association Evans-Clark Shield against St Andrew’s Footscray. St Andrews batted first and were bowled out for 98. Angliss in reply was 4-139 at stumps. In other matches, Laverton needs wickets against the Melton South Royals. The Royals will resume at 3-48 in reply to 111. Sunshine YCW is on top against Seabrook in last season’s Russell Pollock Shield grand final. The Cougars will resume at 0-24 in reply to Seabrook’s 165.

FOR MORE SPORT, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au

Maribyrnong

Astin Hewett. (Supplied)

Tara Murray

Williamstown CYMS has a new coach. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 403543_12

Grego and Matofai-Forbes earn a shot at the AFL

Western Jets co-captains Lucca Grego and Keighton Matofai-Forbes were both picked up in last week’s AFL draft.

Gregowastakenatpick48bytheWestCoast Eagles, with Matofai-Forbes taken by Geelong at pick 69.

That anticipation quickly turned into excitement as Grego’s name was called out.

“I had a little bit of a feeling and my manager let me know to be ready around the West Coast picks and see what happens,“ he said.

“I had a little inkling, had a little feeling that West Coast was going to pick me up. I had friends and family around and watching the tv anxiously as well, like me.

“It was awesome to have their support there with me. The lady that was reading out the namesdidn’tactuallygettofinishmyfullname and they jumped on me.

“It was electric, that was the way to describe it.”

Grego said the following day that it was still settling in that he was an AFL player.

While many teenagers are hesitant to make the move from Melbourne to Perth, Grego said

he was excited for the opportunity.

He isn’t new to moving, having lived in Queensland before coming down to Victoria, while has plenty of others in use family who have gone through the same experience.

“I feel unreal, I prefer to go interstate,” he said. “I’m very glad I got the opportunity to go interstate.

“Both my parents moved out to play their sports at a young age and I’m excited to travel to West Coast and be around the boys at West Coast.

“It’s a young team that looks like it will be thriving in a couple of years. I’m really excited and keen.”

Grego came from a rugby background and played for Victoria in under-12s before concentrating on football.

He moved his football out to Bacchus Marsh where he now lives. He was at the Cobras until this year, when he decided to join Essendon District Football League premier side, Keilor.

Grego was one of two Bacchus Marsh boys taken in the draft, with Sam Lalor going to Richmond at pick one.

“I was super rapt for him,” he said. “He has worked super hard the past three years, bit unfortunate this year with injury, super rapt to hear his name called out.”

Matofai-Forbeshadtowaitlateinthedraftto hear his name called out with Geelong picking him at pick 69.

He started his career with Burnside Heights before playing most of his junior football with Hillside.

Matofai-Forbes joined Keilor last season and has played 11 games for the club.

Having experienced his joy of being drafted, Grego said it was pretty excited to see his co-captain here his name called out later that night.

“When I head his name, it was like I got drafted again,“ he said.

“Keighton to be drafted out of the same team is so exciting. He has done so much work in the past three years and had an injury-riddled season this year.

“To see his hard work and dedication pay off, I was super happy for him and have a smile from ear to ear.“

Johnson’s crazy year

By Tara Murray

Awhirlwind2024hascontinuedforWerribee’s Aidan Johnson, who has now earned a spot on an AFL list with Melbourne.

Johnson had played just one Victorian Football League game heading into the 2024 after a number of injuries had him contemplating his future at that level. He managed to play 21 games for Werribee this season and put his name in front of AFL recruiters.

On Thursday night, Melbourne called his name out at pick 68.

The 24-year-old said on Saturday that it was all starting to sink in what had happened.

“I kind of still feel like I have a job on a work site,” he said. “It still feels a bit surreal.

“I was straight into it. I kind of got drafted at 10pm at night and 7.30am the next morning I’m down at the club and ready to train not even 12 hours late.

“I’vegonefromworkingonajobsitetobeing an AFL footballer, it’s a bit crazy.”

Johnson had a nervous day on Thursday while he waited to find out whether he had done enough to be drafted.

His manager, Kyle Hartigan, said the Demons were having a meeting on Thursday morning and he would let him know.

At about 3.30-4pm, Johnson was basically just told to watch the draft from home and that was it.

“I was supposed to go to Dom’s [Brew] house for dinner and everything and I said we might have to move the dinner to my house,“ he said.

“I live with Hudson Garoni and I said Dom and all that are coming over, Kyle has mentioned that we should watch it at home

“I thought, nah it’s going to happen and didn’t think too much.”

As the news was settling in, Demons coach

Simon Goodwin turned up at Johnson’s house.

Johnson said he was still pretty gobsmacked at that stage.

“I couldn’t speak to be honest,” he said. “All theexcitementofgettingpickedup,allthehard work and that started to bubble over.

“I kind of got a bit emotional and he walked through the front door and you kind of think, holy s**t this is actually real.”

Johnson said the whole journey the past 12 months had been a pretty crazy one.

He said he considered walking away from

Vics dominate Storm juniors

Melbourne Storm’s three pathways teamshavestartedtrainingfor2025with many of them coming from Melbourne’s north-west.

The SG Ball (under-19s) and Harold Matthews (under-17s) squads have been in action since November 2 ahead of the start of their respective competitions on February 1.

Storm’s Jersey Flegg (under-21s) squad hitthetrainingfieldonNovember9with their competition kicking off on March 8.

The club’s Road to AAMI Park pathways strategy of identifying and nurturing young local talent has already paidoffwiththeHaroldMatthewssquad for 2025 entirely made up of Victorian players drawn from junior clubs across Melbourne.

Altona Roosters have the most players intheHaroldMatthewssquadwithnine, while the Sunbury Tigers have seven.

Sale-Zion Tunumafono, Tanae Tawha, Vaiolini Petelo, Vaolo Luatua, Wivenshalom Tyrell, Max Tokava, Emmanuel Walker, Carlos Faaofo-Taula and Anaias Jones-Teao were the Roosters players selected.

VFL before this season, but a chat with Brew played a major role in convincing him to have one more crack.

Johnson, whose local club is Yarraville Seddon, said Brew said that it would all eventually pay off and it did in more than one way.

The first was a premiership with a group he loved playing with and now being drafted.

“To be honest, it’s pretty crazy how it all ended,” he said. “It’s a bit of a fairytale ending getting picked up right at the end.

“It’sicingonthecakeandabitofachildhood dream.There’salotmoreworktocome,it’sjust getting started.”

Among those Johnson has reached out to early on is former Werribee teammate Shaun Mannagh, who got drafted last year.

It was Mannagh that got him to Werribee. Richmond’s Tylar Young is another with the two growing up as neighbours.

Having already kicked off pre-season training, Johnson said he’s ready for the challenge ahead.

“I’ll get to know everyone and get into the group,butmybestfootforwardand letactions speak words.

As well as introducing players to the Storm culture, the Road to AAMI Park allowstheStormtoinvestinandconnect with local junior clubs and also to be an integral part of the community.

The coaching staff has a wealth of experience and knowledge with three former Storm players in this season’s ranks.

Thereisalsoaveryhighrepresentation of Victorian coaches and staff across all three teams with Tony Adam, who came from the NRL Victoria system, once again coaching the Harold Matthews under-17s.

In the 19s, as well as local Victorian players, there are also players who have come through as part of the feeder club junior programs from the Sunshine Coast Academy and another coming to Melbourne from the North Sydney Bears.

Storm has a senior and junior academies in 2025 with those players spread out amongst the 19s and 21s. Storm football director Frank Ponissi said.they were very excited to build on from their first season of the Road to AAMI Park Pathways Program.

Aidan Johnson. (Sienna Smilevski)

Lucca Grego. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 410527_23

Bulldogs players are warming into the season

Footscray United is building into the Victoria Turf Cricket Association Isaacs Howarth Shield season.

With a new coach and some new players, it’s a different team for the Bulldogs in their second season in this division.

With a win on the board, coach Michael Deasy said they were settling into the season.

“I think we are building,” he said. “I think we have a strong batting line up.

“We’ve got a couple of new players. Raj [Rajesh Magar] started off really well but has gone overseas to play. He won’t be back until after Christmas.

“He was a big factor in getting things going. I think with a few new players we are learning to gel together and play good cricket.

“We won last week and hopefully we can make the runs on a big ground this week.”

The Bulldogs had a solid first day out against

PEGS on Saturday in their round five clash.

PEGS were bowled out for 238 in the 73rd over,

“I think our bowlers did the job,” Deasy said. “I was happy with how they bowled.

“We could have kept them to a little bit less.”

Daniel Deasy took 5-72 for the Bulldogs, while Frank Hoang took three wickets.

Michael Deasy said they were confident of getting the job done on day two.

They will resume at 0-16 with James Deasy (11 not out) and Hoang (three not out) at the crease.

“We gave no chances,” he said. “We sent in a player that normally isn’t an opener, but I’ve been told he has done it before.

“Our keeper normally opens and it was a hot day so we wanted to make sure we didn’t lose a wicket.

“We have to make 220-odd to win. It’s a big

ground and a good wicket. If we can bat well we should get the runs.”

Deasy said the aim for the group this season was to make the top four.

In other matches, Seddon made 214 against Oak Park St Francis de Sales.

Liam Braithwaite top scored with 50 for the Dockers.

It was wickets galore in Altona Roosters match with Sunshine.

The Roosters were bowled out for 111 with the Crows, 5-79 in reply.

The Druids have already conceded first innings points against Haig Fawkner.

It was a tough day for the Druids with the bat as they were bowled out for 69 in the 33rd over.

Haig Fawkner finished the day at 5-193.

In senior division, Yarraville Club is 4-53 in reply to Deer Park’s 172.

A tough day for bowlers

By Tara Murray

It was a tough day in the field for Altona in the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association south-west on Saturday.

With the temperature beyond 35 degrees, teams across the competition decided to bat first and Caulfield was no different against the A’s.

A’s coach Aaron Whear said it was a tough day in the field for his side.

“It was really hot, particularly before tea,” he said. “I think our bowler toiled away hard. “Caulfield has a good batting line up. We would have been nice to have knocked them out for a bit less.”

Caulfield finished day one at 2-286 off its 80 overs as every batter reached double figures.

Jacob Thorne top scored with 93.

Tom McConville and Rory Medlock took two wickets each for the A’s.

Whear said it would be a good challenge for their batters this Saturday as they look to chase down the runs.

“Our batting has been solid,” he said. “Ben Davies is having another good year, along with Matt Turcinovich and Connor Brown have been our three standouts this season.”

Whear said he thought the side was tracking along well this season as they target a second straight finals series.

After five rounds, the A’s sit in seventh spot with three wins and two losses. They are three points outside the top six after being one of the few teams to get the full points last weekend after rain on Sunday.

“It’s a big test on the weekend,” he said. “I think our form has been solid.”

Whear said things were going well with their other sides.

Their second XI got their first win last round against Yarraville, while the third XI is sitting near the top.

He said there were plenty of encouraging signs for their fourth XI, which is a young side. In other south-west matches on Saturday, Spotswood and Yarraville are both on the back foot.

After deciding to bat, the Woodsmen were bowled out for 155 in the 62nd over against Brighton.

Lachlan McKenna top scored with 62 and Declan O’Brien made 35, but they didn’t get much from the tail and lower order.

Brighton will resume at 2-31 after batting nine overs.

Jackson Wadden and Dan Schuppan have the wickets for the Woodsmen.

Meanwhile, Yarraville was bowled out for 188 against Moorabbin.

Ashish Mathew top scored with 77 as

number nine Akshat Buch (26) and number

Kamal Singh (24 not out). Moorabbin will resume at 1-5 with Williamstown Sheffield taking the wicket. The score for day one for Williamstown’s

Milisavljevic in hall of fame

Former Footscray JUST star Jim Milisavljevic is the latest inductee to the FV Hall of Fame.

Milisavljevic dedicated a lifetime to football as a player, coach, match official and administrator before his death in 2022 when he was 70.

Born on April 15, 1952, Milisavljevic grew up playing Australian rules football and junior soccer with Footscray JUST. He was talented at both sports, but chose to focus on soccer.

His senior debut for JUST came on his 17th birthday. As his career began to flourish at JUST, Milisavljevic featured in multiple Victorian senior squads mainly as back up. This talent was recognised by his selection in the 1974 FIFA World Cup squad, after a string of impressive performances as a substitute for Australia.

After seven years in goals for JUST and a trifecta of championships, a recurring hand injury changed things.

He was brought on as a substitute in that year’s Ampol Cup final, claiming the solitary goal and ultimate winner against South Melbourne Hellas in extra time.

Milisavljevic continued to play for JUST as an outfielder for a few more seasons, before dropping down multiple divisions to join Carlton Serbia in 1980, where he enjoyed a long stint as playing coach as they later became Ringwood United.

Post-playing career, Milisavljevic picked up the whistle and enjoyed several seasons as a referee.

Agerestrictionspreventedhimmaking ittothetoplevel,andheultimatelymoved into coaching and administration, when he was more commonly known as Jim Mills.

His influence extended to the game’s administration, serving with the Victorian Soccer Federation (VSF) on the state league management committee between 1993 and 1999, the final year as chairman. He also spend three seasons as commissioner of the VSF.

Son Milan Milisavljevic said it was a bittersweet feeling for his father to be recognised with him not here to accept the award.

match with Melton was not available at deadline.

Melton was 4-87 after 39 overs in the latest score available. Fraser Hay had two of those wickets.

“I think dad would have been over the moon,“ he said. “He loved the game and wanted to give back to it, it made him happy and bought him joy.”

Tara Murray Majid Iqbal. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 445370_08

Ben Davies. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 436967_10