with colour as thousands of residents celebrated the 30th Weerama Festival
Ԃ PAGE 18
TRIPLE-0 CALL
Resources are being stretched by the number of people wrongly phoning local police in an emergency
Ԃ PAGE 3
MY WYNDHAM
We meet environmental activist Harry van Moorst
Ԃ PAGE 10
SPORT
Giants fall short in deciding game of baseball’s semi-finals
Ԃ PAGE 34
awash
Air space above Point Cook was in short supply at the weekend, with dozens of planes wowing crowds at the Royal Australian Air Force’s centenary air show. Pilot Matt Henderson provided an insider’s view of life in the cockpit as part of six hours of flying displays. Other highlights included performances by the Roulettes and the Navy’s helicopter display team. More than 30,000 people attended the show. Ԃ STORY BY DAVID BONNICI, PICTURES, PAGE 11
WYNDHAM
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HOPPERS CROSSING
jamie’s fresh spin on meals on wheels
A mobile kitchen run by celebrity chef Jamie Oliver’s Ministry of Food rolled into Hoppers Crossing last ursday, ready to teach residents to cook healthy meals. e kitchen will be based at 86 Derrimut Road, next to the Youth Resource Centre, for 10 weeks. Manager Emma Hannah said hundreds of students had signed up for classes aimed at improving basic cooking skills.
“We want to strip food back to basics and make it easier for people to cook,” she said. e mobile kitchen will visit 11 municipalities across Victoria over the next two and a half years as part of the state government’s Healthy Together initiative. Wyndham is one of 14 “at-risk” municipalities taking part. e city has one of the highest obesity rates in the west, with 23.9 per cent of men and 18.9 per cent of women considered obese. It also has low rates of fruit and vegetable consumption. e government’s 2012 Victorian Population Health Survey revealed 57 per cent of men and 53 per cent of women in Wyndham did not eat two serves of fruit and five serves of vegetables each day. e mobile kitchen will run 23 classes a week in two, five-week blocks. \ LL
» jamiesministryoffood.com
triple-0 ‘mistakes’ stretch police resources
CRIME
Wyndham’s top cop is urging residents to call triple-0 in an emergency instead of the city’s police stations, warning that calls to the stations can go unanswered.
Inspector Damien Christensen said the volume of calls to Werribee and Wyndham North stations had become so great that he had to consider redeploying police from specialist taskforces to meet demand.
“I’m stuck between deciding do I have a sergeant and four [officers] working on family violence and a sergeant and five focusing on vehicle the , when the watch house is so busy.
“If you want police to attend to an incident, call triple-0, but if you want to report a burglary that happened three days ago, by all means, call the station.’’
Inspector Christensen’s comments come as latest crime statistics reveal an increase in assaults and robberies in Wyndham.
Robberies increased 20 per cent, from 77 reports in 2012 to 93 in 2013. Assaults (excluding family violence) rose 55 per cent to 861 in 2013. And reports of family violence incidents increased from 513 in 2012 to 605 last year.
Inspector Christensen said police were
looking at their approach to assaults on police and Protective Services Officers, and how they deal with road rage.
“We are looking at alcohol as a cause of violence and will be meeting with clubs and licensed venues, but [assaults] are not something we can run an operation on.
‘‘We don’t have any nightclub precinct causing grievances like in other areas.”
ere was a decline in Wyndham’s overall crime rate, with reported offences falling from 12,857 in 2012 to 12,431 last year.
Residential burglaries fell 36 per cent to 1048
reports; the of motor vehicles was down 14 per cent to 454; and the from motor vehicles declined 25 per cent to 1488 reports. \
LAURA LITTLE
EMMA HANNAH
Think big, with this quality residence opposite the village green in a quiet pocket of Riverview Park estate.
On a 567-square-metre block with semi-circular driveway, the 34-square residence (circa 2005) captures river views from the front breakfast balcony.
Designed for family living with its practical floor plan dividing the formal from informal and entertainment zones (and the kids from the grown-ups), the two-level treat will appeal to families who appreciate space, style and
comfort. Immediately to the right of the wide hall is the carpeted study, while a powder room and understair storage are opposite a carpeted lounge room with a Heat & Glo gas log fire.
At the end of the hall is the living zone, which has the kitchen to the left and the dining and family room divided by an open wall.
The well-designed kitchen includes an island bench/breakfast bar, D’Amani stainless-steel appliances (dishwasher, 900mm oven with five-burner gas cooktop), pantry and tiled splashback. A sliding door leads into the
laundry with external access, and beyond into the remote-controlled double garage.
French doors open to the covered deck and compact backyard, which includes the basic landscaping.
Back in the hall, where a carpeted staircase ascends to a large retreat, three bedrooms with built-in wardrobes, a separate toilet and bathroom with huge bath, oversized shower and vanity.
At the front is the sumptuous main bedroom suite, which incorporates a walk-in wardrobe behind a TV wall, an en suite with spa,
dual-basin vanity, separate toilet and large shower, and a front balcony that overlooks the village green.
Extras include ducted heating, Bonaire evaporative cooling and timber venetians.
Position is another feature that will add appeal for active families, with Werribee River walking and cycling paths, schools (Wyndham Central College, Bethany Primary, Westgrove Primary), bus stop, Werribee Plaza shops, Italian Social Club and Galvin Park sporting facilities nearby.
fringe element seeks valuation revamp
RATES
Landowners on Wyndham’s urban fringe have urged the council to push for changes to property valuation processes and triggers for land development in a bid to limit soaring rates bills.
Contributing to the council’s review into its rating strategy for next financial year, ratepayers also asked the council to push for changes to the ministerial guidelines for differential rates.
Under new guidelines introduced by the state government last year, the council is unable to offer lower rates for landowners on the urban fringe. Previously, rates for urban growth zone properties were 10 per cent less than those for residential properties.
e review began last year a er landowners in Wyndham’s north were on the end of rates increases of up to 700 per cent in 2012-13, following revaluations.
e council attributed the increases to land being brought within the urban growth boundary in 2010, meaning it could eventually be sold to developers for higher prices.
Residents struggling to pay their rates protested at council meetings in July and August, 2012, with police called to the August meeting a er the council came under fire from nearly 200 people in the gallery.
“ ey haven’t taken any thought into what the land is like out here,” she said.
Last week, Cr Gautam Gupta said the review was one of the council’s most important pieces of work. “ e new rates have been endorsed by the people who were upset at the rating strategy,” he said of the new strategy.
“the new rates have been endorsed”
At the time, Tarneit pensioner Coralie Porter said her rates bill had doubled, from about $2000 to $4000.
e review also considered the introduction of differential rates for farm land, rural lifestyle land and vacant rural land. Council has decided against the introduction of a differential rate for retirement villages, despite repeated requests from retirees. e review is open for public comment until March 25. \
Point Cook soldier Tylee Jackson will sacrifice her curly locks for a military crop, but it has nothing to do with her defence force work. e mother-of-four will adopt a short-backand-sides look later this month as part of the Leukaemia Foundation’s World’s Greatest Shave campaign.
Ms Jackson says her partner loves her hair but supports her decision to lose her tresses to raise money for research and help people beat leukaemia and other blood cancers.
“With each clip I will be closer to raising $500 or more for the cause,” the 42-year-old said. “I don’t know anyone who hasn’t been touched by cancer and it’s time we found a cure.”
Leukaemia Foundation state general manager Stephanie Hechenberger said that in Victoria about 3000 people are projected to be diagnosed with a blood cancer this year. \
SUE HEWITT
» my.leukaemiafoundation.org.au/ tyleejackson
MY TOWN
Several years ago I sat next to a Wyndham councillor at a networking function.
Introducing myself, I asked this person how their role as a community leader was going.
“Well”, was the reply, “I can’t believe how many people expect me to attend functions, meetings and events. If I went to everything, I’d be out two or three times a week. Don’t people realise I’ve got a life, too?”
I’ve never forgotten that conversation because, frankly, this person’s attitude towards those who voted for them sucked. I was disappointed when this councillor was re-elected as I strongly believed, and still do, that they consider the position a free ride.
Last month, it was pointed out that three councillors have collectively missed six months of official duties in the past year.
While their explanations of sickness and executive burnout are reasonable, in the real world not many of us can take months off and still collect a salary. In the real world we have to work through upset emotions, logistical difficulties, personal and family illness. ese few councillors give the rest a bad name. Our mayor, Bob Fairclough, is a hard-working, genuine man who you’ll o en see at various functions and events, along with other dedicated councillors.
To the others, I say step down from your position if you’re not able to fulfil your duties.
And I say to you, dear reader, remember those who are making excuses and defending their poor performance. Next time you’re asked to vote, put the easy riders at the bottom of your list. \
EMMA SUTCLIFFE
Emma Sutcliffe is a Little River-based freelance writer. You can find her on Facebook at ‘‘Little River Emma’’
TYLEE JACKSON WITH CHILDREN KYLA, 10, AND JACKSON, 12
(MICHAEL COPP)
Here’s good news for anyone struggling to nd an affordable property large enough for a growing family. The well-maintained house has four bedrooms with built-in wardrobes, a bathroom, separate toilet, open-plan family-meals zone, and an updated kitchen with oodles of storage and bench space, a dishwasher and stainless-steel appliances, including a 900mm freestanding cooker. Slate oors and brightly coloured feature walls in the kids’ bedrooms enhance the interior. The home has ducted heating and evaporative cooling, while the property’s 12 two-kilowatt solar panels will keep the power bills down. A sliding door from the living zone leads to a large backyard with undercover entertainment area. Beyond are low-maintenance landscaped gardens and ample room for the kids to run amok on the lawn. A single carport and garage are included. \
If babies are arriving faster than your present house can keep up with, then this spacious residence in Tarneit has got you covered. A modern decor ows through four bedrooms, the main with walk-in wardrobe and en suite; the remaining bedrooms have built-in wardrobes. And there’s an open-plan family-meals space and separate lounge room. The large kitchen has ample storage space, including a walk-in pantry, and stainless-steel appliances. Evaporative cooling, ducted heating and a security system are included. A sliding door from the family-meals zone leads to a pergola, accessible from the main bedroom, and there’s a raised garden bed and decking. Low-maintenance landscaped front and back gardens and a double garage in the package. The house on 590 square metres has plenty of scope for a family and is close to schools, Wyndham Village shopping centre and the future Tarneit railway station. \
Wyndham’s traffic congestion could be eased by an overhead light-rail service along the Princes Highway, according to a key speaker invited to the launch of the council’s congestion campaign.
Environmental geographer and sustainability expert Rob Gell sees the solution to Wyndham’s traffic woes in thinking beyond roads and traditional public transport systems.
e former television personality said an overhead light-rail system could be installed along the freeway to the city, while a similar system could be installed in Wyndham to provide travel across the municipality.
Mr Gell will help launch the council’s Get Wyndham Moving campaign on March 20.
e council last week revealed that 21 of Wyndham’s arterial roads were at, or over, capacity.
While the council has outlined a road solutions wishlist – including state funding for arterial road duplications, construction of the western end of the east-west link, the removal of rail level crossings, and more buses and trains – Mr Gell said a new approach was needed.
“It’s about having a think into the future and not expecting to do what we have always been able to do,” he said. “We’re not living in the 1950s with V8 cars.”
Mr Gell said options for Wyndham included privately funded light-rail systems and the installation of charging stations for electric cars.
RACV traffic manager Dave Jones, who will also speak at the launch, said the rapid development of Point Cook was an example of how not to develop estates.
“We don’t want to repeat the mistakes of Point Cook where connections to the freeway and public transport are inadequate,” he said. e council is lobbying for $100 million of road works, including arterial road duplications for Dohertys, Palmers, Sayers and Derrimut roads.
e campaign will be launched on March20 at the Wyndham Civic Centre from 7pm. \ SUE HEWITT
student makes a moving decision
Cameron Nash got so fed up with travelling on infrequent buses snaking their way along Wyndham’s congested roads that he bought himself a car.
e Wyndham Vale university student used to rely on bus services to take him to Werribee station, where he catches the first of two trains to Hawthorn’s Swinburne University.
But the trip began to drag out as buses started to take less direct routes and became stuck in traffic.
Mr Nash, 21, is one of 12 transport “champions” who have signed up to the council’s Get Wyndham Moving campaign, which urges the state government to provide
funding to improve roads and public transport in the city. He is calling on other young people to add their voices by writing to local MPs and sharing stories of their public transport experiences on social media.
“Young people make up a large segment of public transport users in Wyndham,” Mr Nash said. “It’s a frustrating experience, getting around on public transport in Wyndham –that’s why I decided to get involved.”
Mr Nash said timetable changes meant a bus trip from Wyndham Vale to Werribee Plaza had blown out from 10 minutes to 40 minutes.
“Buses are infrequent and don’t take direct routes,” he said. “And they don’t connect with trains.” \
council ‘stripped’ of library funding
TARNEIT
Wyndham council will need to find $1 million a er the federal government withdrew funding for a new library in Tarneit.
In June last year, the former Labor government promised the council $1.05 million from the Regional Development Australia Fund.
e council has since been told that the Coalition will not honour funding allocated in round five of the project.
A spokesman for the Infrastructure and Regional Development Department said the funding would not be honoured as it was an ‘‘election promise’’.
Council chief executive Kerry ompson said the decision was disappointing, but the $6.95 million library would still be built. “It is a critical piece of infrastructure that supports our growing community in Tarneit,” she said.
Ms ompson said the council would need to consider how to fund the gap.
Cr Adele Hegedich said it was disappointing that the state government had contributed $750,000 to the project, while the federal government had “stripped” the council of funding.
Lalor Labor MP Joanne Ryan disputed the government’s claim that the funding was an election promise, saying it was announced in June last year and had been included in the budget.
“ e Liberal and National government is just trying to shirk its responsibility in taking away this funding from communities in need.
“ e Abbott government needs to come clean and explain to our community why it is denying Tarneit this important community facility,” Ms Ryan said. \ LL
WYNDHAM VALE
LAURA LITTLE
CAMERON NASH
(WAYNE HAWKINS)
Werribee Central Location Boasting Stunning Renovations And Appointments
There are renovations and there are renovations one can say. When it comes to this home, it’s a simple case of stunning or nothing. And believe us here, stunning it is with appointments and concepts that rarely feature at all, let alone all in one home. A true entertainer delight and designed for living, this gorgeous residence entails a renovated matt vinyl wrap kitchen, upmarket appliances and stone bench tops. A huge adjoining separate meals room is ideal to get all the family together while the formal lounge is quite sizable! Double glazed windows and a full European laundry also feature. Polished solid hardwood flooring features throughout, while pretty much everything has received the once over! Roller shutters, gas heating and air conditioning also feature here. Outdoors a lavish alfresco featuring a combination of merbau decking and casual lounge, rendered walls and stone bench tops, while also being enclosable for all year round entertaining thanks to the commercial grade bi-fold glazed doors. A tandem double carport is also here while there is also a double garage or workshop and for the kids a heap of backyard to run! With this wonderful location, the Werribee CBD, train station and schools are a simple stroll away while freeway access could not be easier! It just seems to have it all!
Published by Metro Media Publishing Pty Ltd (ACN 141 396 741). All material is copyright and The Weekly Review endorses
your voice
a better way
(Weekly, February 26)
Ԃ According to Cr John Gibbons, whose trip from home in Hoppers Crossing to Truganina can take him 40 minutes: “The traffic [in Wyndham] has become unbelievable and is totally intolerable.’’
Cr Glenn Goodfellow also complains that what should be a 10-minute trip down Derrimut Road to council meetings now takes him 43 minutes.
What I find totally unbelievable is not the traffic. It’s that these two intelligent men even consider travelling by car in such congestion.
ON YA BIKE \ VIA WEB
Ԃ We, the residents of Wyndham, have the power to reduce traffic congestion. Ditch the car.
Active transport is transport with benefits – better physical health, better mental health, more connected with nature, unaffected by traffic congestion.
You meet other active transport users, there’s no time wasted finding
a car park and much more money in the bank. And no matter how bad the congestion is, it’s not stressful as you’re in control.
RIDE ON \ VIA WEB
Ԃ Councillors, you know exactly how to reduce congestion and it’s nothing to do with spending millions of dollars on roads.
Get out of your cars and onto your bikes. Easy. I commute by bike every day. It’s fun, I save time and money and congestion is not an issue.
RIDER \ VIA WEB
put jobs on the agenda
Ԃ The youth unemployment crisis reveals worrying pockets of disadvantage under Denis Napthine’s watch.
As entire industries collapse and employment security declines, the jobs future of our state should be at the forefront of the Napthine government’s agenda.
Its actions show the opposite: cutting $1.2 billion from TAFE, reducing the courses on offer and
the number of enrolments. The government’s major infrastructure pipeline consists of one dodgy tunnel.
Opposition Leader Daniel Andrews has already released detailed policies to create 10,000 jobs, transform our roads and public transport and get our economy back on track.
But in his dysfunctional minority government, Denis Napthine has shown he is more interested in fighting for his own job than fighting for Victorian jobs.
TIM PALLAS, OPPOSITION EMPLOYMENT SPOKESMAN
The WEEKLY welcomes letters no longer than 200 words. All letters are subject to editing and must include a name, address and phone number.
POST \ The Editor, PO Box 740, Niddrie, 3042 EMAIL \ westletters@mmpgroup.com.au
POST A WEB COMMENT \ to any story at www.wyndhamweekly.com.au
My shout
Last week it was revealed the north-western suburbs had one of the highest rates of youth unemployment in Victoria. At 14.8 per cent it compares with Geelong at 13.8 per cent –though you don’t see politicians falling over themselves to address the job situation here like they are down the Princes Highway.
There is much more political gain to help Geelong, which is made up of a few marginal state and federal seats which can make all the difference when Victorians go to the polls. The media’s interest is further sparked by the unconventional but effective PR work of Geelong mayor Darryn Lyons. Lyons has made jobs the priority for his council. The sprawling north-west requires more of a joint effort. It would be great if politicians at all levels put self-interest aside and banded together to put the region at the top of the jobs agenda. \
DAVID BONNICI \ EDITOR
Southside Special, In A Quiet Court Location
Situated in one of Werribee’s most sought after locations, is this modern family home boasting a large master with retreat, WIR, open plan spa ensuite, plus a private enclosed courtyard. The remaining 3 BRs are fitted with BIRs, with bedroom 2 appointed with an ensuite. Comprising a sunken lounge, central kitchen with WI pantry, while timber bi-fold doors open onto the alfresco. Adjoining the kitchen, is the open plan meals & family area. Features a theatre room, central bathroom, laundry & study. Includes heating, cooling, alarm, 9’ceilings, floating timber floors to all BRs, double remote garage with internal access, water tank, large shed & unrestricted side access for a boat or caravans. Set on a fantastic allotment of 936m2 with fully landscaped gardens & a circle exposed aggregate driveway.
Exquisite Classy Contemporary Jewel In Reflections!
In a class of its own this ex-display home is sure to blow you away with its excellence, sophisticated design & abundance of space. Stunning façade with a lovely timber decked entrance leading you through to an amazing floor plan which presents a huge master BR with a hotel style ensuite & WIR, study with built-in shelving, state of the art theatre room set up, central bathroom, open plan family/meals area & a gorgeous tiled alfresco with built in overhead heaters. Appointments includes hostess kitchen with stone benches, stone bathrooms, high ceilings, tiled feature walls, ducted heating, evap cooling, security system, halogen lighting, SS appliances, water tank with pump, timber decked seating, double remote garage with internal access & low maintenance landscaped gardens.
Private Sale Contact Agent Inspect Sat 10.45-11.15am
rehab centre a boon for wyndham
HEALTH
Werribee’s Storm Robbins hopes a new rehabilitation centre at Werribee Mercy Hospital will make his life easier.
Until now, Mr Robbins, who has cerebral palsy, has made regular journeys to the Royal Children’s and Sunshine hospital for rehabilitation.
e opening of a rehab centre in Werribee means Mr Robbins, 23, can spend more time in the gym building up strength in his muscles and less time on the road.
“People with disabilities can find it hard to travel,” he said. “Without these services, who knows where I could be.”
e $28 million centre, funded by the federal government, was opened by state Health Minister David Davis last Wednesday.
e centre includes a gym, in-patient ward with 30 multi-day beds, eight two-bed rooms, 14 single-bed rooms, meeting and consulting spaces. It also includes geriatric evaluation and management services, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech pathology, and diabetes assessment and care.
Mercy Health executive director Linda Mellors said the centre would meet the needs of the growing Wyndham community. “We understand the growing need for health
services in the region and believe this building will not only help us meet demand during the next few years, but for decades to come,” Dr Mellors said.
Mr Davis said the centre would also benefit patients from Hobsons Bay and Melton and
reduce pressure on Footscray’s Western Hospital.
“We know patients prefer to be treated, wherever possible, in their homes or as close as possible to loved ones,” he said. \ LAURA LITTLE
hospital funds claim Angers labor mps
e state government has been accused of trying to take credit for Werribee Mercy Hospital’s new rehabilitation centre.
At the opening of the centre last Wednesday, state Health Minister David Davis said his government had “secured $28 million from the Commonwealth’s national partnership agreement on improving public hospital services” to pay for the new centre.
e comment angered local Labor MPs Joanne Ryan and Tim Pallas, as the centre’s funding was provided by the former Labor federal government.
“David Davis completely failed to acknowledge the significant contribution of the former Labor federal government in providing $28 million for the project,” Ms Ryan said. ‘‘Mr Davis of all people should know that this was a joint effort, and should be acknowledged as such.”
Mr Pallas said the state government had shown “unbelievable front”.
But Mr Davis defended his comments, saying the federal government had provided the state government with funding for necessary health projects.
“It was a state government project … the state government manages hospitals across the state” he said. \ LL
March Super Savers in store now
WERRIBEE PATIENT STORM ROBBINS
(MICHAEL COPP)
Sophisticated, Stylish, Contemporary ‘Wow Factor’
Exuberant, stunning, pristine presentation & sheer class is what this property presents! Comprising 4 fitted BRs, master with a hotel-style ensuite, large WIR & sliding door leading outside, massive formal lounge adjacent to a tiled family meals area, study room or formal dining & a timber decked alfresco.
Soaring 9ft ceilings, hostess kitchen with stone bench tops, plantation shutters, halogen lighting, 900mm SS upright cooker, large WI pantry, ducted heating, split system A/C, alarm, video intercom, electric security shutters, café blinds, double remote garage & manicured gardens. Perfectly positioned across from a fantastic kids playground, walking distance to Tarneit Gardens kindergarten/community centre & the new shopping complex, all of this on a whopping 790m2 allotment.
Young & Vibrant 4 Bedroom Family Treasure
This generously proportioned family home comprises 4 BRs, the master features a WIR & FES, while the open plan design boast a huge living area, meals room & large hostess kitchen. Ducted gas heating & evap cooling also feature, while the double garage boasts direct internal access. Outdoors, an under cover decked pergola, all set on 522m2 approx. There is also the opportunity to create unrestricted side access, perfect for caravan/boat access.
Private Sale Contact Agent
Inspect Sat 12.15-12.45pm
Photo ID required
Contact John Camilleri 0414 778 940
Kirsty Cunningham 0414 344 475
Private Sale Contact Agent
Inspect Sat 11.30-12noon
Photo ID required
Contact Bassam Tofaili 0411 449 821
James Antonio 0401 889 248
Exquisite, Picturesque Establishment!
This stunning family home features 3 fitted BRs, ensuite & WIR to master, study/4th BR, formal lounge with OFP & formal dining, open plan family/meals area, all-weather entertainment area & double remote garage with rear access. Includes Tas Oak timber floors in living areas, Tas Oak timber kitchen, heating, cooling, 2 sheds & more. Set on approx 1011m2, close to parks, schools,Werribee River bike trails/walking tracks, shops & all amenities.
Private Sale $490,000 - $530,000
Inspect Sat 1-1.30pm
Photo ID required
Contact Bassam Tofaili 0411 449 821
Tony Vercher 0421 734 414
Truganina
in-kind scheme a ‘bad idea’
PLANNING
A planning expert has criticised the state government’s plan to allow developers to make in-kind infrastructure contributions in growth areas, instead of making cash payments.
RMIT’s Professor Michael Buxton said it was a “bad idea” that could lead to developers setting the priorities for roads including arterial roads and freeways, footpaths, walking and cycling trails, health and education facilities, libraries, community facilities, stormwater management and IT infrastructure.
on projects that would help the wider community.
It was no use to provide a major intersection if congestion on surrounding local roads was not fixed, Professor Buxton said, adding that there had to be balance between physical infrastructure, such as roads, and social infrastructure, like community facilities.
“i am dubious about the process”
“It shouldn’t be le to developers to be making the decisions on what infrastructure is needed,” Professor Buxton said. “[Planning] infrastructure should be a matter for the state government working with local government.”
Professor Buxton said the government’s Growth Areas Infrastructure Contribution works-in-kind plan was unclear about how priorities would be set. “I am dubious about the process; it’s not clear enough.” He said developers might choose to undertake infrastructure projects to benefit their own plans, rather than working
LeadWest’s chief executive, Craig Rowley, said the government’s plan would “accelerate” the provision of infrastructure in growth areas.
He said developers building roads in their own subdivisions already had the equipment and staff in place to do other road works in kind, instead of paying cash into a government pool.
He said the works in kind could also include community halls, maternal child and health care centres, kindergartens and sport and recreation facilities.
Planning Minister Matthew Guy said the plan would allow developers to provide infrastructure alongside new housing and remove the “costly need to acquire land later … ensuring better integration of public and private facilities”. \
SUE HEWITT
right royal time for centenarian
MANOR LAKES
Ellen Moyses has waited a long time for royal correspondence, but she finally got a birthday card from Queen Elizabeth for her 100th birthday yesterday.
She celebrated the milestone at Uniting Aged Care Manor Lakes and has set herself a new challenge: “I’m going to make it to 101.”
Mrs Moyses was born on March 4, 1914 and quips that her birth started World War I the following year. In 1946 she married her late
husband William, who was an army driver stationed in NSW during World War II and then a labourer.
ey raised three children in Footscray, according to her eldest son, Robert Moyses, who lives in Wyndham Vale.
“She had five sisters and one brother, three of whom lived to their 90s, but she’s outlived them all,” Mr Moyses said.
“I suppose you could say I am the last one standing, or at least sitting,” Mrs Moyses added from her wheelchair. \ SH
(MICHAEL COPP)
Tranquil Location Near Werribee River
2 2 4
John Camilleri 0414 778 940 Werribee 9 Riversdale Drive
This immaculately presented home presents 4 fitted BRs, master with BIR & ensuite, formal lounge, open plan hostess kitchen, meals & 2nd family living area along with a study. Includes heating, cooling, laminate floors, double remote garage plus a 2nd double garage at the rear with attached shed & ample side access for your boat/caravan. Outdoors, a fab entertainment area, and with established gardens there is no work to be done.
Private Sale Contact Agent
Inspect Sat 10-10.30am
Photo ID required
Contact Kirsty Cunningham 0414 344 475
Werribee 26 Coventry Drive
Renovated Family Residence With Park Views
With all the hard work done, you will be ever impressed with the joys that lay within this beautiful home. With 3 BRs, a huge main living & formal dining with solid polished hardwood flooring, central kitchen adj meals room & renovated main bathroom. Features ducted heating & evap cooling, lock-up garage & a heap of backyard for the kids to play free all in view. Close to park grounds, Werribee River & the Werribee CBD.
Private Sale $280,000 - $299,000
Inspect Sat 10-10.30am
Photo ID required
Contact John Camilleri 0414 778 940
Kirsty Cunningham 0414 344 475
Bedrooms, Ensuite, Central Position!
Opportunity knocks with this fantastic first home, investment opportunity or a well suited property for a low maintenance lifestyle. Centrally positioned, walk to public transport, schools, childcare, parklands, bike trails, walking tracks, Skeleton Creek & shops. Three fitted BRs, ensuite & WIR to master, lounge, neat kitchen/meals area, single lock-up garage, a great sized paved pergola area, ducted heating & split system A/C.
Luxury In Your Own Secluded Paradise!
Gorgeous family home with stunning contemporary décor such as polished Tas Oak timber floors, exquisite gloss kitchen, heating, cooling, security system, double remote garage with rear/internal access & indoor IG heated LAP POOL & spa with bathroom. Five BRs, ensuite & WIR to master, formal lounge/dining, hotel style bathroom, open plan family meals area, and outdoors a timber decked area surrounded by manicured gardens.
1 Sandalwood Circuit, Tarneit
Another Fantastic Result by your property agent…
Werribee 9741 7777
9 Bromley Street, Wyndham Vale
Another Fantastic Result by your property agent…
Werribee 9741 7777
7 Angela Drive, Hoppers Crossing
55 Church Street, Werribee
Another Fantastic Result by your property agent…
7777
MY WYNDHAM
AWerribee resident for 25 years, environmental activist Harry van Moorst says Wyndham is a great place that needs to be better protected.
What’s your connection to the local community?
I’m the director of the Western Region Environment Centre. I’ve been working there for 15 years, since the end of the [Werribee] toxic dump campaign. A er speaking with the council and the community, we set up the environment centre to protect Wyndham’s environment and act as a watchdog for the area. Our focus is on community development within an environmental context, including creating jobs linked to sustainability.
Where’s your favourite retreat spot?
Walking along Werribee River and admiring our coastline. I don’t want to see it developed, we need to protect it.
Favourite place to get co ee or a bite to eat?
We have some wonderful ai, Vietnamese and Indian restaurants. I spend most of my time at the Italian Sports Club of Werribee.
What do you love about your patch? e growth of our community through Facebook sites such as those for the Shoestring Garden, Western Region Environment Centre and Wyndham Heritage Recovery Incorporated.
What would you change in your neighbourhood? Create more sustainable jobs. ere’s a problem of poverty and inequality in Wyndham with people
getting le behind due to a lack of employment or job loss. Work needs to be done on public transport and people need to be encouraged to ride bicycles.
What do you remember being in Wyndham that’s no longer there?
Quite a few heritage buildings have gone, including the Davis House on Watton Street which was demolished
last year. A lot of Wyndham’s history has been lost and a lot of space and land, including agricultural land, due to development. When I came to Werribee there were no tra c lights and it was easy to get around, unlike now. \
SUGGEST A MY WYNDHAM INTERVIEWEE @ clevy@mmpgroup.com.au
Boardwalk Blvd, Point Cook
show a soaring success
POINT COOK
More than 33,000 people flocked to Point Cook at the weekend for the Centenary of Military Aviation Air Show.
Spectators at Royal Australian Air Force Williams were treated to flying and static displays featuring aircra that have contributed to Australia’s rich military aviation history.
A six-hour flying display provided a spectacular history lesson with dozens of aircra spanning the past 100 years, from a replica of the original Bristol Boxkite through to aircra from World War II and the Korea and Vietnam conflicts … then it was on to the 21st century hardware. e crowd was also wowed by aerobatic displays from the RAAF Roulettes and the Royal Australian Navy’s helicopter display team.
more than 33,000 people visited the air show
On the ground there were opportunities to look inside a host of aircra , including the gigantic C-17 Globemaster transport.
RAAF head of special events Air Commodore Phil Byrne thanked the community for its support.
“I’m extremely pleased with the air show and its success was only possible with the support we received from organisations such as Victoria Police, Public Transport Victoria, VicRail and Wyndham council.” \
DAVID BONNICI
» Picture gallery: wyndhamweekly.com.au
CITY STYLE Urban Trends
Be inspired by our New York Autumn/Winter fashion displays throughout Werribee Plaza to help you create an amazing new season wardrobe. Plus enjoy our FREE style lounge and pop-up parades where you can learn all the latest fashion
FREE STYLING SESSIONS
Wednesday 26 - Sunday 30 March
Tfeat youfself to a one on one session with ouf top fashion stylist Mafyanne Bafja. Book youf FREE session* at weffibeeplaza.com of contact ouf Customef Sefvice Desk at the Centfe on 9749 5111. *Terms and conditions apply. Numbers are strictly limited.
POP-UP FASHION PARADES
Thursday 27 - Sunday 30 March
Enjoy ouf Autumn/Wintef pop-up fashion funways showcasing the latest in men’s and women’s fashion.
Werribee South market gardeners are battling a fungal disease that is “ravaging” their broccoli and cauliflower fields.
AUSVEG spokesman Andrew White said white blister had been known to wipe out entire crops.
e organisation held a field day with growers, researchers and industry representatives last week to assess the problem.
Although Werribee South farmers have seen their crops decimated by the disease which causes white blisters on plants, shoppers would never know, according to David Wallace, president of the Victorian Vegetable Growers Association.
never make it to the supermarket. People don’t know that this is hitting farmers already struggling with increasing costs, who have to just give up on some crops.”
White blister can be caused by long periods of dampness. It can also be transmitted through infected produce, seedlings or seeds le behind in soil or carried by wind, rain and irrigation splash.
“there’s an oversupply of produce”
Mr Wallace said market gardeners were forced to plough affected crops back into the soil and start again.
“Werribee South farmers already hard hit by high production costs, especially water, now have to deal with nature. ere’s an oversupply of produce, so affected plants
Crop planting and rotation practices can limit the disease, which can wipe out 100 per cent of crops.
Mr Wallace said pressure on Werribee South farmers was increasing, with the development of Wyndham Harbour putting them in conflict with new residents who might object to chicken manure fertiliser used on farms.
“White blister just adds to the stress; it happens all year round and seems to come in bursts affecting everyone.” \
SUE HEWITT
» AUSVEG: 1800 247 666
NOTICE TO AFFECTED PERSONS OF TREE CUTTING / REMOVAL
Under the Code of Practice for Electric Line Clearance
Powercor Australia Limited (Powercor Australia) must maintain vegetation clearance around powerlines in compliance with the Electricity Safety (Electric Line Clearance) Regulations 2010 (Vic) (Regulations) and the Code of Practice for Electric Line Clearance set out in the Schedule to the Regulations (Code)
Notice is hereby given by Powercor Australia pursuant to Clause 5 of the Code of cutting and removal works on trees that are on public land and within the boundaries of private properties. These works are scheduled to occur in the municipalities of Wyndham, Melton, Brimbank, Hobsons Bay, Moorabool, Golden Plains and Greater Geelong over the next 60 days in order to maintain the required clearance space around powerlines prescribed by the Code.
Where cutting or removal works are to occur on known trees of cultural or environmental significance (as defined in Clause 5 of the Regulations), the relevant party will be contacted and information pertaining to the (a) details of the impact of the cutting or removal and (b) the actions to be taken to minimise that impact, will be provided.
Enquiries can be made on 5338 3300.
little house to fund big results
WILLIAMS LANDING
Inspired by the shape of children’s building blocks, a Williams Landing developer is making a cubby to help build the future for young people.
Cedar Woods is a part of a cubby challenge to raise funds for youth homelessness charity Kids Under Cover. e charity provides mentoring, scholarships and portable accommodation for young people.
Cedar Woods is one of several developers to meet the challenge of building a cubby to be auctioned to raise funds for the charity. It has created the “Grubby Cubby”, to ‘‘encourage children to get in and play in an interactive way”, according to Cedar Woods marketing manager Stephen Jones. is year’s entries will be on display at the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show from March 26-30 and will be auctioned on Sunday, March 30. \ SH
WYNDHAM’S MOST STYLISH EVENTS VENUE
Looking for a venue to host your next function?
Look no further than the Italian Sports Club of Werribee
As we have all your needs covered in 2014 Come in and ask us about.........
Pick up one of our Function Packages from the ISCW Reception area or download them from our website
(SUPPLIED)
Mayoral Column
ihat a great weekend of events in iyndham.
Point Cook. Visitors were given
PROFILE \ GARDEN HELPS KAREN
PEOPLE GROW, WRITES SUE HEWITT
Anew life has grown for a Karen refugee through a Werribee Park project that has taken him back to his family’s roots.
See Mee Tun is learning about his Burmese farming and culinary culture while undertaking a horticulturalist traineeship at Werribee Park.
e 21-year-old was born in Burma but was a baby when his family ed persecution for the overcrowded Mae La refugee camp on the Burmese- ai border.
See Mee, his parents and ve brothers lived in the camp for 15 years before coming to Australia in 2009, joining the growing Karen community in Werribee.
make iyndham a great City to live,
and visit.
“It is like what we used to grow in Burma long ago. We couldn’t grow our vegetables in the refugee camp,” she says. “ e community kitchen garden brings everyone together.
‘‘Mostly we’re Karen people and we tend the garden, harvest the crops and every day we make lunch from the produce and share it. Here there’s so much space to grow what we want.”
“it is like what we used to grow in burma”
He was reunited in Werribee with Evelyn Kunoo, 49, who he knew at the refugee camp where more than 50,000 mostly Karen refugees eke out an existence.
Mrs Kunoo lived at the camp for 22 years and was a midwife who delivered many babies, giving birth to ve children herself. For Mrs Kunoo, the vegetables being grown in a community kitchen garden at Werribee Park –like a huge vegetable melon – invoke memories from a time long past.
Parks Victoria chief executive Bill Jackson says the community kitchen garden, developed for culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities from across Melbourne’s western suburbs, is now at the centre of a thriving program with a horticultural educational facility helping people like See Mee.
“When the project began, it aimed to address some of the mental health issues associated with the e ects of post-traumatic disorders, including depression and isolation for women from refugee communities,” Dr Jackson says. “Now the project has grown to include younger members of the community; … the women’s kids, grandkids, nephews and nieces.” \ shewitt@mmpgroup.com.au
Deer Park – West Werribee Junction
Regional Rail
Link temporary road closures –Wyndham Vale
Greens Road
(west of Regional Rail Link tracks)
From Tuesday 18 March until Thursday 17 April Greens Road will be temporarily closed to traffic west of the Wyndham Vale Square shopping centre.
Access to the area will be available via Bulban Road. See detour map.
Ballan Road
The new Ballan Road bridge will be closed overnight on Wednesday 19 and Thursday 20 March from 8 pm –6 am to facilitate asphalting and line marking works. During these closures, signed detours will be in place along Manor Lakes Boulevard/ Kinglake Drive.
For more information about these works call the Regional Rail Link community information line on 1800 107 925 and select option 4 for the Deer Park – West Werribee Junction project team, or visit www. regionalraillink.vic.gov.au
SEE MEE TUN
(MICHAEL COPP)
EVELYN KUNOO
Early
Dates:
Time:
As the only ‘live seafood’ restaurant with yum cha in the Point Cook area, China Lantern House is the place for fresh seafood and banquets, new manager Tim says.
“All our dishes are made fresh and our fast-paced service makes us the ideal place to have lunch on a busy work day.
“And our lunch specials start from $10.80 per person, including soup, an a la carte dish with rice, and Chinese tea or soft drink,” Tim says.
The restaurant, also open for dinner, and has on the menu steamed and fried dumplings, including vegetarian, beef, lamb and pork; seafood, rice, noodle and vegetarian dishes; and traditional Chinese desserts. Diners can order their choice of meals off the menu for yum cha rather than the traditional structured banquet. Even though China Lantern has only been open two months it is already pleasing diners, including Melbourne foodies Leon and ‘Chooka’.
“Had dinner for two.We had fried chicken and pork ribs. Décor was good and the manager was accommodating. We will be returning to try other items in the near future.”
Chooka agreed.
“Went and had the all-you-can eat yum cha. It was pretty good and the manager was helpful.Will be back.”
China Lantern House, at shop 46/47 Sanctuary Lakes shopping centre, 300 Point Cook Road, Point Cook, opens 11am-3pm and 5-10pm daily. Inquiries: 9394 8509
wheels set in motion to tackle cancer
CHARITY
Raphael McGowan was cycling across the United States with friends in 2011 when he got a call to say his sister had been diagnosed with cancer.
A mole on Tess’s back had turned into a melanoma. Doctors removed the mole, but by the time Tess began treatment the cancer had spread throughout her body. She died less than a year later, leaving behind a husband and a one-year-old daughter.
McGowan says his sister’s sudden death stunned his family.
“She was so young and had very fair skin and was always sun-conscious,” he says.
A er struggling to come to terms with his sister’s death, McGowan decided to jump back on his bike and cycle 1900 kilometres from Adelaide to Sydney to raise awareness and money to help with research.
e Sydney resident is visiting friends and family along the way, so they can share their memories of Tess.
On Sunday, McGowan will arrive in Werribee to meet family from the western suburbs.
He will ride to Whitten Oval on Monday, where he will join the Western Bulldogs for a morning tea. Tess was a big Bulldogs fan.
McGowan hopes to raise at least $100,000 for the Melanoma Institute of Australia.
“Tess was on a trial program and it gave her another three months with family and friends,” he says.
“It meant we could get out everything we wanted to say and Tess could make her wishes clear.”
McGowan hopes his journey will encourage people to regularly check their moles and be sun conscious.
“If you can catch it early, you can get it removed.” \
» cyclingtomarch.com
LAURA LITTLE
(SUPPLIED)
BRIEFS
family escapes fire
A Laverton family has escaped a fire that destroyed their house last Sunday night. Firefighters were called to Woods Street about 1.45am after neighbours heard screaming and saw flames leaping from the Housing Department house. The family was evacuated from it after being woken up by a smoke alarm. A man in his 30s was treated by paramedics for minor burns and a small cut to his arm. The cause of the fire will be investigated. \
police car rammed
Police are appealing for witnesses after a police car was rammed in Hoppers Crossing last Tuesday. Police said a red Ford sedan reversed into the car after it was spotted driving at high speed along Derrimut Road. Police tracked the vehicle to Paloma Court and attempted to stop it, but the driver reversed into the side of the police car and fled the scene. A police officer was taken to hospital with minor injuries. Information to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 \
health message for women
South Western Melbourne Medicare Local is urging Wyndham women to look after their health by being screened for breast and
It’s the best career choice I’ve ever made
cervical cancer. Statistics show Wyndham has among the lowest screening rates in Victoria. GP Jo-Ann Silva said screening was vital. \
breakfast club
Ninety students from across Wyndham will get their school day off to a good start after a local charity received $2000 to provide them with breakfast. The Breakfast Club, which is run by the Sikh community, received the money through the Williams Landing Neighbourhood Grant Scheme. The club provides students with ingredients such as bread, milk and cereal to ensure they have breakfast before starting school. \
be a good sport
Wyndham residents can improve their athletic performance by visiting Wyndham Vale’s newest sports medicine centre and high-performance academy. My Physio Evolution will be opened by mayor Bob Fairclough on Friday at 6pm. The centre includes surgeons, physiotherapists, sports physicians, a high-performance gym and the largest Redcord studio in the southern hemisphere. It’s at 141-143 Greens Road, Wyndham Vale.
Details: myphysiowyndhamvale.com.au \
Prison Officer Department of Justice
It’s nothing like you see on the TV or in the movies. What I nd most challenging about the job is learning how to deal with prisoners’ issues that they come up with regarding their impending release, and helping them manage their relationships with their family whilst they’re in prison. It’s just a constant learning process. I think it’s a great career move, and a job you can be proud of.
If you believe that becoming a Prison Officer could be your next career move, visit www.cvcareers.com.au
Werribee was a hive of activity and colour at the weekend, with thousands of people flocking to this year’s Weerama Festival.
e three-day festa began with Busk at Dusk in Station Place on Friday night, giving would-be singers and songwriters a chance to show off their talents.
On Saturday, families flocked to Chirnside Park for a children’s fun-fest, followed by a fireworks display. en on Sunday, close to 15,000 people lined Watton Street for the annual parade.
Festival director Warrick Lynch said 1000 people representing 56 community groups took part in the parade.
Students from e Grange College led the way, carrying banners spelling out “Weerama”.
“ e crowd over the whole weekend was really good,” Mr Lynch said.
“On Saturday night you could hear the cheers from people watching the fireworks from the street.” \
» More pictures at wyndhamweekly.com.au
LAURA LITTLE
KAREN COMMUNITY FAYE LOCKWOOD
RADHA, GARIMA, ANAGHA AND VRAJ
MANOR LAKES BASKETBALLERS
If your new year’s resolution was to buy your own place for under $300,000, this Hoppers Crossing property is sure to win approval. The brick-veneer unit has a grey interior – conveniently on trend – and three bedrooms, including the main with walk-in wardrobe and en suite. The remaining bedrooms have built-in wardrobes
There’s a black and grey-tiled bathroom, separate toilet, laundry with outdoor access, carpeted lounge room, tiled meals zone and U-shaped kitchen with ample storage and bench space. A split-system and ducted heating are sure to keep the new owner comfy. Other features include bulk-head ceilings, bay windows, a shaded and paved entertainment area, low-maintenance gardens, a single lock-up garage and additional off-street parking space. The appealing property is close to Hoppers Crossing railway station, Skeleton Creek, parks, a kindergarten, Truganina South Primary School and Westbourne Grammar. Werribee Plaza is also nearby. \
Since September 2013, the Rating Strategy Advisory Group, comprised of representatives from the Wyndham Community, has been meeting every three weeks to develop a discussion paper on Council’s Rating Strategy. The Rating Strategy Discussion Paper which outlines the key recommendations from the Advisory Group to Council is now available for feedback from the community.
The Discussion Paper and online submission form is available on Council’s website at www.wyndham.vic.gov. au/ratingstrategy from Tuesday, 25 February 2014 or by contacting 9742 0848. Community members wishing to make a submission should complete the online submission form by Tuesday, 25 March 2014.
www.wyndham.vic.gov.au
WHAT’S ON
CAR SHOW
Have your say on Wyndham’s Rating Strategy
The Rating Strategy Advisory Group will hold Information sessions regarding this Discussion Paper at the Council Chamber (Civic Centre), 45 Princes Highway Werribee, on the following dates:
Thursday, 13 March 2014 at 6.30 p.m. Tuesday, 18 March 2014 at 6.30 p.m.
For more information please contact Binda Gokhale, Manager Financial Services, on 9742 0857 or Paul Jones, Rating Services Coordinator, on 9742 0849.
BLOSSOM AS A VOLUNTEER
Learn how to grow roses and help look after one of Wyndham’s renowned tourist attractions by volunteering with the Friends of the State Rose Garden. No experience necessary. Volunteers meet Wednesday and Saturday mornings at Werribee Park.
■ 9395 3880
INFO NIGHT
Wyndham Central College is holding an information night for parents of grade 6 students who will be joining the school next year. It’s at the college on Shaws Road, Werribee, from 7pm on March 18.
■ 9741 4911
TWILIGHT FUN
Head to Werribee’s twilight street market on Friday, March 21, to watch local entertainers, try exotic foods or take in a tai chi demonstration. The market is at the Wedge Street Piazza. 3pm-dusk.
■ twilightstreetmarket.wordpress.com
Old and new cars will be displayed at Werribee and District Collectable Vehicle Club’s annual show and shine at Moss el Reserve on Sunday, March 23, 9am-3pm. All cars welcome. Entry $10 per car.
■ 9397 8181
MULTICULTURAL FESTIVAL
Celebrate Wyndham’s cultural diversity at the Wyndham Multicultural Fiesta at Werribee Park on Sunday, March 23, 11am-4pm. Activities and live entertainment.
■ enquiries@wyndhamcec.org.au
RELAY FOR LIFE
Cancer survivors and carers are being invited to join a celebration at Wyndham’s Relay for Life. The fund-raising event is on March 29-30 at the Victoria University Athletics Track in Werribee.
■ relayforlife.org.au
HORSE SHOW
Watch horses and their riders compete at the Equestrian Victoria Masters Games from April 25-27. Categories include carriage driving, show-ring and dressage. At Werribee Park National Equestrian Centre.
■ 9013 0707 \
WANT YOUR EVENT LISTED? Email details by noon on the Wednesday before publication \ whatsonwest@mmpgroup.com.au
TIME OUT \ PETE MURRAY’S TIME IS NOW, WRITES BEN CAMERON
Until recently, Pete Murray’s relationship with his 2003 album Feeler was somewhat strained.
While it tugged on a nation’s heartstrings –selling almost half a million copies and clinching 12 ARIA award nominations through hits like So Beautiful and Bail Me Out – for many years Murray wasn’t convinced of its worth and was initially surprised by its success.
“I’m OK with it now,” the self-taught singer songwriter says. “When we mixed it, I thought it should have been a bit more dynamic. But a part of the beauty of the album is that it’s not.
“I never listened to that album from start to nish. I just couldn’t do it, there were too many things I didn’t like about it.
“Sometimes you go into a kind of post-album blues. I struggled with hearing anything good about it, and when it started having success it really surprised me.”
Although appreciating the album has taken him a while, Murray always had a strong connection with the eighth track, My Time. e song encapsulated the feeling that maybe he was wasting it by turning his back on sporting pursuits – he was an accomplished rugby player –and pursuing a music career.
“I was spending all this time writing, for a year at least,” he says. “I kinda thought ‘am I watching my life slip away here?’”
Murray says he owes it to Feeler for making him a more con dent performer and person.
“For a long time I was a bit shy and didn’t really believe that things were happening,” he says. “But
I feel really con dent when I walk on stage [now]. I’d always look at the crowd and wonder ‘are they digging this?’
“But now I don’t even worry. If they’re not digging it, who gives a shit. As long as I’m enjoying it, I know they’ll enjoy it.’’
Speaker: ROB GELL Environmental geographer, sustainability strategist and campaigner
Keynote Speaker: DAVE JONES Manager - Roads and Traf c, RACV
by: DAVE HUGHES Comedian and Television Presenter
TOTAL
$158
WIN THIS
“for a long time i was a bit shy”
Murray will join Bernard Fanning, Josh Pyke and Clare Bowditch at Werribee Park on March 16 for Live on the Lawn. \ bcameron@mmpgroup.com.au
» liveonthelawn.com.au
The boy from Oz is back – this time in his own show. Todd McKenney is performing the songs of Peter Allen in a high-energy, vibrant and entertaining show that reveals Todd’s considerable talents. His Victorian tour includes performances at The Palms at Crown in Melbourne and Frankston Performing Arts Centre. For tour details, check the website toddmckenney.com.au/
The Weekly is giving away one double pass to the 8pm show at The Palms on April 11. The total prize value is $158.
To enter the competition, visit winthisnow.com.au and follow the prompts. Entries close on Sunday and will be drawn the next day at 10am (Melbourne local time) at the of ces of MMP Group, 214 Park Street, South Melbourne, VIC 3205. Winners will be noti ed in writing and their names published at winthisnow. com.au. Terms and conditions are available at this website.
Hosted
Keynote
MOTORING
\ ROD EASDOWN FINDS BIDDING FAST AND FURIOUS AT CAR AUCTIONS
You’ve probably heard about the bargains to be had at car auctions. Tread carefully; it’s a mine eld in there. My mate Joe has been going to auctions for years. He’s a professional car detailer and picks up work from the dealers and wholesalers who make up the regular customer base. He sees the people he calls the wood ducks making errors all the time. “ ey forget they’re up against buyers who have been coming for years,” Joe says. “I’ve seen beginners getting excited when they gure a car will be a bargain because the professional buyers aren’t bidding. It doesn’t occur to them there’s a reason these guys aren’t interested.”
So what are the traps?
“What’s hardest to get used to is how fast it happens,” says Joe. “On average, a car takes 90 seconds to sell, some take less than a minute. You have to be fast; if you’re not, the auctioneer will knock it down to a regular.
“Go on a weekday, not a Saturday. e professionals tend not to come on Saturdays and auctioneers o en start the bidding $1000 higher than weekdays.
“At the really big ones, like ManheimFowles (in Altona), there can be three auction lines going at once and this gets tricky. You may think you’re bidding for the car in the rst line but nd your bid is being taken for the car in the second.
“ e key is to know what you want and how much you’re going to pay, and stick to it.
“If the car you want goes over your budget, come back next week. You have to be as cold and e cient as the regulars,” he says. e cars are mostly from government eets or car dealers who have taken them as unwanted trade-ins. While the service history is usually available (you may have to ask to see it before the auction) and a brief history of the car is displayed, you don’t get a test drive. At best you’ll be allowed to start the engine. e engine bay has usually been steam cleaned, the car is washed and the interior vacuumed, but it’s seldom a thorough job.
“You’re mostly looking for repaired damage,” Joe says. “Check the dipstick for sludge in the oil. If the radiator has water rather than coolant, forget it. Check the tyres and make sure the registration is current. Look for exhaust smoke.”
He likes ex-government cars (“even though they’re white”), especially high-mileage ones from the country that have done most of their travels with a thoroughly warmed-up motor.
So how many auctions does he think you should attend before buying? “I can’t think fast enough,” says Joe. “I nd a wholesaler to bid for me and sling him $100.” \ reasdown@theweeklyreview.com.au
THINGS YOU DIDN’T KNOW ABOUT MOTORING… The 10 most expensive cars bought at auction are a Duesenberg, a Ford GT40, two Mercedes-Benzes and six Ferraris.
1300372678 24hrs/7daysswa4281be SONIAPRITTI -IVisityou.Ican weartraditionalattire.Busty,sexy curves&veryfriendly23yo. Ph:99357753 swa4281be. 11.00am till late 482 GEELONG RD, WEST
Readers are entitled to expect that the advertised prices are the actual prices at which they can purchase the particular goods and services.
Metro Media Publishing will not knowingly accept for publication any advertisement which may be in breach of the Competition and ConsumerAct or any other relevant law.
CLASSIFIEDS
NOTICE OF AN APPLICATION FOR A PLANNING PERMIT PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENT ACT 1987
The land affected by the Application is located at: V11145 F673 L407 PS615973 Deutgam Parish 5 Grassbird Drive POINT COOK VIC 3030
The Application is a permit for:Removal of Covenant No PS615973E (remove building envelope)
The Application Reference Number is: WYP7197/14
The applicant for the permit is: Allweather Shelters Pty Ltd
A QUALIFIED Maths,Science andChemistryteacheravailable fortutoring.Pleasecall: 94830831or0418871203.
You may look at the application and any documentation that support the application at office of the Responsible Authority: Municipal Wyndham City Council Offices: Civic Centre Address: 45 Princes Highway WERRIBEE 3030
Contact: Yanchen Wang Telephone: 8734 5495
This can be done during office hours and is free of charge. Any person who may be affected by the granting of the permit may object or make other submissions to the Responsible Authority. An objection must: - Be sent to the Responsible Authority in writing, - Include the reasons for the objection, - State how the objector would be affected.
The Responsible Authority will not decide on the application before: 12th March 2014
long drive way accommodating up to 6 vehicles, large back yard, great for kicking that football, set on a generous largesizedblock, whichisclosetolocalschools,parksshopping centres and transport.Inspections are a must!
Please see our main advertisement in the (Title) Section.
Please specify the position number you are applying for in your covering letter
Permanent Part Time 24:45 hours per week (Position number 201814)
Permanent Part Time 22:45 hours per week (Position number 201749)
Temporary Part Time 37:25 hours per week –Maternity Leave (Position number 201793)
Temporary Part Time 26:07 hours per week –Long Service Leave (Position number 201705)
Enquiries: Janet Teague (03) 9742 8135
Applications close for the above positions: Sunday 16 March 2014
For the full advertisement and a copy of the Position Description, please visit our website.
Working with local schools in the Wyndham and Hobsons bay region this role will see you providing services through two funded programs at Create to provide high quality service and case management to young people at risk and young people with a disability.
Key func�ons of this posi�on are:
Building posi�ve rela�onships with Schools to market Karingal Create services
Provide individualised case management to support young people at risk
Consult and support school staff with behaviour support approaches for young people
Manage intake and par�cipa�on for both the Create Your Future and Re Engagement programs
Complete appropriate suppor�ng documenta�on for all stakeholders
Possessing youth work qualica�ons and experience, you will have excellent communica�on and listening skills. We also expect that you will have comprehensive understanding of the barriers facing young people and people with disabili�es.
This role has come about from a con�nua�on of a pilot between local schools and Create Youth at Wyndham. If this is a role that excites you and you have what we are looking for, then we would love to see your applica�on.
Applica ons Close 14 March 2014 and should be made via our website (www.karingal.org.au), including a cover le er addressing the Key Selec on Criteria and resume.
Based at our Point Cook office we have a fantastic opportunity for a Sales Consultant to join our dedicated and professional Sales team. Predominately dealing with house and land sales in the Point Cook and surrounding areas you will be involved in all aspects of Real Estate.
To be considered for this role, you will require solid sales experience in Selling & Listing all types of properties, have completed your Agents Representative Certificate and a current drivers licence & vehicle.
Please email your cover letter and resume directly to MICM Property at careers@micm.com.au
Werribee’s quest for an undefeated season in the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association is over.
e Tigers’ winning streak in east-west first XI was halted at 11 a er a 32-run loss to title contender Oakleigh at Warrawee Park on Saturday.
It was the first time the ladder-leading Tigers had been on the wrong side of the scoreboard since last year’s grand final.
Tigers captain Shaun Dean said that while the situation was “not all doom and gloom”, it was a bitter pill to swallow a er being in a strong position late on day two.
“We were in a very good position to win the game,” he said. “We had it all set up and at tea you couldn’t have scripted it better for what we wanted.”
our guys – to let someone who’s bowling straight up and down get five wickets.
“He just bowled in the right area and got the rewards.”
Chasing 274 for victory, the Tigers made a bright start through openers Matt Dean (52) and David Wolfe (31), who put on 58 for the first wicket.
e Dean brothers – Matt and Shaun (19) – combined to take the score to 96 for the second wicket before Matt featured in a 46-run stand with Tim O’Brien.
“he just bowled in the right area”
But a spectacular last-session collapse brought about the Tigers’ downfall. ey lost 7-51 in quick time to go from a position of strength to shock losers.
ere was no run-rate pressure – 58 balls were le unused – and the Oaks’ chief destroyer, Michael Splatt (5-44), was not exactly making the ball dance off the pitch.
“Splatt seemed to be bowling on the spot, at the stumps; no shape in the air or nothing out of control, but he ended up with all the wickets,” Dean said.
Snr: Strath 183 and 1-23 bt Yarrav Club 132 and 163, Greenv 170 and 3-95 bt St Bern 132, Sth Caulf 233 and 1-68 bt Old Ment 199, Bri Dist 187 bt Beau 132, Hopp Cross 4-323 bt Bent 273, AWStC 127 and 5-78 bt Keilor 71. North: Willi CYMS 413 bt Alt Nth 191, Laverton 250 and 2-42 bt Spots 134, Doutta 156 bt West Cob 117 and 4-170, Tulla 170 bt PEGS 15 and 5-252, RPB 9-201 bt Westm 71, Keilor Pk 102 and 8-376 bt Foot Utd 70.
WESTERN SUBURBS: A E Lowe Shield: Eynesbury Eagles 8-388 bt Hoppers Crossing 148 and 5-48, Altona Sports 357 bt St Johns 141, Charles Sturt Uni 280 bt Avyukt Aryahi Maidstone CC Inc 156, Rockbank 7-255 bt United Tarneit SC 242. Bill Honey Shield: St Johns 263 bt Altona Sports 191, Hoppers Crossing 196 bt Williamstown Congs 146, United Tarneit SC 382 bt Footscray ANA 239, Altona Roosters bt Kingsville Baptists fft. Tasman Smith Shield: United Tarneit SC 4-351 bt Kings XI CC 7-307, Melton South PSCC 5-241 bt St Andrews 9-140.
VICTORIAN WOMEN
First Grade Shield: Frankston 3-187 (Donahoe 74 Smith 50) bt Brighton Dist 5-76, Riverside 45 bt Coburg 44, Gisborne 6-136 bt Darebin 133 (Wright 88). North West: Geelong 7-146 (Flinn
O’Brien cruised to 69 not out, but was not given a free rein by the Oaks, who used a defensive field setting to keep him on the leash.
O’Brien was happy to take the singles on offer, but when it came to the crunch, the tailenders didn’t give him the support he needed and the Tigers were all out for 241.
“ ey sort of conceded they weren’t going to get Tim out and almost had five on the fence from when he was on 30, giving him a run a ball,” Dean said.
“For a while it wasn’t working for them, but in the end it proved quite a good tactic because they ran through us quite quickly with Tim not being able to get the strike back.”
e Tigers will defend top spot when they face Bayswater at Chirnside Park on Saturday in the last game before the finals. \
Top shelf: With a half-century, Werribee’s Matt Dean jumped to fifth on the aggregate runs list in the east-west group. (SHAWN SMITS)
BOWLS
BOWLS VICTORIA SATURDAY METROPOLITAN
PENNANT: Finals Premier Division: BRIGHTON 78 bt CLAYTON 72 (A Wilson 20 lost to G Archer 22 C Twentyman 23 bt T Wood 16 T Shannon 18 lost to L Garlick-Adams 20 G Maskell 17 bt D Benwell 14) MOONEE PONDS 72 bt MELBOURNE 67 (S Fordham 30 bt S Mortimer 10 B Spurr 11 lost to D Fisher 17 A Galloway 18 bt M Wilks 14 M Jacobsen 13 lost to B Leighton 26).
Glen (1) 93 Ber (1) 90. DIV 2: Sec 1: Alt (2) 114 Flem/Kens (1) 65. Sec
VNL netball
VU-Western Lightning secured a hard-working 45-40 win over North East Blaze to move to third in the Victorian Netball League championship division standings. They will take a three game win streak into tonight’s clash with undefeated Boroondara Genesis at the State Netball and Hockey Centre. \
WDCA cricket
Bellbridge has snatched second spot in the WDCA A turf finals after an outright win over Melton South away at Blackwood Reserve on Saturday. The Bridge had only to eclipse a tiny 88 for first-innings points and raced to 9-167 declared to keep the maximum points in play. Mark Croswell took five second innings wickets to have South out for 103 the second time around, with the Bridge hitting 25-0 for maximum points. \
VFL football
Werribee Tigers clawed their way to a five-point win over Box Hill Hawks in a VFL practice match at Arden Street on Saturday. Nathan Grima and Tom Gribble had more than 30 possessions each as new coach John Lamont took charge of the Tigers for the first time in a competitive match. The Tigers will be back at Arden Street on Saturday to face Williamstown in their second pre-season hit out with the development league game starting at 10am, followed by the seniors at 1pm. \
ere is nothing in sport like seeing an underdog swoop in for a startling victory.
Hoppers Crossing did just that, coming from the bottom half of the top four to claim the section pennant in Bowls Victoria’s division 3 section 1 at the weekend.
Hoppers beat the top two sides on consecutive days to move out of their section and into the knockout divisional finals, which start on Saturday.
An ecstatic Hoppers president Daryl Marendaz said the narrow 80-76 semi-final victory against Altona on Saturday built momentum for Sunday’s sectional final 107-67 victory over Melton.
“We had a tight game against Altona. ere wasn’t much in it with three or four ends to go,” Marendaz said. “We kept plugging away and fighting at the end. at gave us the
impetus to say, ‘We can go on from here and win the section; we might be the underdog, but we’re going to give this a real go’.”
Even the most one-eyed Hoppers Crossing fan could not have predicted what was about to come against Melton.
e 40-shot victory was a startling contradiction of the form guide.
Melton won the regular-season encounter between the clubs 2-0 and did so with convincing three-rinks-to-one victories on both occasions.
But as Hoppers showed, finals are a new ball game.
“We didn’t give them a look-in right from the start.
“A er eight ends it was something like 27-8 and we never looked back.
“We were never under 20 shots in front the whole day.”
“We gave them a real touch-up”
Hoppers, led by winning skips John Robinson, Dennis Hewitt and Frank Aidone, got off to a flyer against Melton and never relinquished their the lead.
“We gave them a real touch-up,” Marendaz said.
Hoppers Crossing’s attention now turns to the divisional finals.
e club can dare to dream of much greater things a er setting up a semi-final date with section 4 winners Camberwell Central to be played at Middle Park Bowls Club on Saturday.
e winner of that game will advance to the division grand final against either Pakenham or Glen Eira McKinnon on Sunday. Not that Marendaz is even thinking of looking that far ahead.
“It’s one day at a time for us,” he said with a chuckle. \ LJ
State of disbelief: Skip Snowy Barker was shocked by his side’s performance in the section final.
(DARREN HOWE)
‘pathetic’ bees pull the pin
Bowls
Werribee saved its worst performance of the Bowls Victoria division 1 section 1 season for its last and most important game.
e Bees were putrid in the sectional final, losing 91-51 to Kew Heights on Sunday a er going in as slight favourites.
e passage to the divisional finals seemingly opened up for the Bees a er the top-two ranked sides were toppled on Saturday, but their insipid showing against
in-form Kew meant sudden death. Bees skip Snowy Barker described the loss as “terribly disappointing” and one that he never saw coming.
“ e game was more or less over 20 ends in,” he said. “We only scored 18 shots collectively a er 47 ends.
“I said at half-time, ‘It’s been pathetic, we’ve got to show a bit of pride’.”
Kew was like a runaway freight train and there was no reeling it in.
It was a fact that stared Barker in the face
as he decided to avoid further humiliation by calling the game.
“I just shook hands with them and conceded with five ends to go,” he said.
“It was open for anyone who wanted to grab their chance to win it … give them credit, they’ve been playing really good bowls towards the end of the season when it counted, and that’s what it’s all about.
“It was totally disappointing to end the season like that.”\
LANCE JENKINSON
falcons remain undefeated
Netball
City West Falcons snared their fourth straight win in the Victorian Netball League championship division.
e undefeated Falcons are an offensive force, averaging a league-high 57 goals per game with an average winning margin of 23.
e juggernaut rolled on with a 59-42 win over long-time rivals Monash University Storm at the State Netball Hockey Centre on Wednesday night.
“ e girls put in a pretty hard and tough pre-season so it’s actually good to reap the rewards early on in the competition,” Falcons assistant coach Nicole Richardson said.
“We’re travelling along quite nicely at the moment and a lot of players have had quite a bit of court time and [are] sharing the load. It’s a good place to be a er round four.”
While the Falcons attack is running like clockwork, their defence can do with a bit of tightening. Richardson was not pleased with the performance of the back end against the Storm.
However, the Falcons are still ranked in the league’s top three a er four games.
“Defensively, I don’t think we were at our best, and you have to give credit to Monash Uni,” Richardson said.
“We’re going to have to go back to the drawing board with our defenders and … continue to work on our defence. It is easy to plaster over the defensive cracks when your three-pronged attack is in such hot form.
e Knott sisters - Kath and Juliaand youngster Alice Teague-Neeld are going to give the Falcons’ coaches a few headaches at the selection table. ree into two spots will not go and all three have made a case for the starters bibs.
“It’s a great dilemma to have from a coaching perspective,” Richardson said.
“We have three goalers playing well and shooting high percentage and [that] keeps the opposition guessing as to what starting line-up we’re going to throw up.
“It does make it a headache for the coaches to work out which two are going to get the start, but it’s a headache you’d prefer to have.”
e umpires votes went to goal defence Casey Price, but in Richardson’s eyes it was Maggie Lind who stood out.
Lind has made a seamless transition into a mid-court role and thrived in the absence of young gun Liz Watson, who was on Melbourne Vixens duty.
“She’s developing quite nicely into a centre court player now,” Richardson said. “She had an exceptional game and she fed our goalers with some great ball.”
e Falcons will take on Geelong Cougars, coached by former Falcons assistant Gerard Murphy, tonight at the SNHC. \ LJ
giants drop their bundle
Baseball
Werribee’s disappearing act in the third and deciding game of the Baseball Victoria summer league division 2 semi-final series with Springvale Lions will remain an unsolved mystery.
e Giants will be haunted by the concession of 13 first-inning runs that led to a 25-6 game-three loss at KH Wearne Reserve on Sunday.
Giants coach Phil Balzer was shocked by the manner of his young team’s defeat.
“ ere’s just no way of seeing that it was going to happen,” he said. “You couldn’t predict it.”
e Giants’ pitching had been a strength all season. e pitchers brought the goods in games one and two, giving up two runs in a combined 21 innings.
e Giants took game one at the Melbourne Ball Park on the back of young starter Wes De Jong and it took the Lions a combined 12 innings of pitching from Jonathan Lowe and Chad Northcott to square the ledger in game two at Presidents Park.
ere was confidence in the Giants’ camp when De Jong took to the mound for the start of game three.
But De Jong never settled, giving up 11 runs on two outs before Balzer was forced to go to the bullpen.
For De Jong, it was an outing that in no way represented his season as a whole.
“Wes has been good all year,” Balzer said. “He hasn’t been that far off at any stage and it’s certainly not something we expected to see today.
“He was pretty distraught, but he’ll be right; he’ll learn from it.”
e rot set in early and the Giants never recovered. ree relief pitchers – Daine Gregory, Lowe and Wade Balzer – could not arrest the slide.
“Our pitching has been our strength all year, so when that falls away, we’ve got nothing to respond with,” Balzer said.
Concentration: Jonathan Lowe was focused on the mound for Werribee Giants in game two.
(DARREN HOWE)
“We’re not a big hitting team, we don’t score a lot of runs … not many teams come back a er a 13-run first inning.”
Oliver Box provided a rare highlight for the Giants with a three-run triple, while Simon Riches picked up two hits.
e Giants will be on the lookout for a new coach a er Balzer said “it’s unlikely” he will be back next summer. He took on a one-year deal as a stop-gap measure so the club could potentially find its next long-term coach.
“I’m glad I did it,” Balzer said. “ ey’re a good group of guys, they’re really genuine and
it was a pleasure to coach them. If the club can pick up one or two players as well as a coach, they should be really strong next year.” \
LANCE JENKINSON
Summer League
Division 2 semi finals
Game 1: Springvale 0 Werribee 3
Game 2: Springvale 2 Werribee 1
Game 3: Werribee 6 Springvale 25
cats purring after bats come good cricket
Hoppers Crossing has finished the summer on a high note with a finals-shaping win against Bentleigh on the road in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association’s senior division.
e Cats brushed aside their batting inconsistencies to post a mammoth 4-323 and blast the victory target of 274 to pieces.
Asif Jan produced his best knock for the club with 121 not out at No. 5, while Ryan Latham made 88 to finish the season with back-to-back half centuries.
e pair combined for a magnificent 166-run fourth wicket partnership.
e chase was set up by a solid 47-run opening stand between player-coach Darrel Brown (34) and Justin Goegan (26).
e Cats’ last-day win cost Bentleigh a spot in the final four.
In north A1, Werribee Centrals were relegated a er falling 18 runs short against finals-bound Sunshine Druids at Galvin Park. e Centurions only had to tie with Druids’ 6-216 to stay up but were bowled out for 198.
ey tumbled to fourth-last when news filtered through of a big St Albans’ points grab over Aberfeldie. \ LJ
Where did your side finish?
Finals
Point Cook (second, west B1)
Wyndhamvale (fourth, west B1)
Survived
Hoppers Crossing (seventh, senior division)
Seabrook (sixth, west B1)
Relegated
Werribee Centrals (ninth, north A1)
point cook comes to the party to relieve falcons
vtca
Wyndhamvale’s desire to prove it belongs in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association’s west B1 has driven it to a finals berth at its first attempt.
e Falcons started the final round outside the top four, but it all fell into place come 6pm on Saturday.
Taking care of their own business, they overcame Newport-Digman in a tense finish at the Bryan Martyn Oval. en assistance came from Point Cook, which beat Seabrook, sending the Brookers tumbling from the four. “It was probably relief more than anything,” Falcons opening bowler Ryan Radford said.
“Coming across to a new competition, you want to try and show that you’re good enough for it. It was good to get ourselves into the four.”
e Falcons have displayed much inconsistency in their first season in west B1.
e hot and cold streaks were brought about by player unavailability and getting to know their surroundings in a new competition. But they have peaked at the right time, going into the finals on the back of two consecutive wins.
Radford is adamant his side is not in the finals merely to make up the numbers.
“Making the four is the first part of the plan,” he said.
“If you make it, you want to try and go as far as you can. We think our best cricket is good enough to win it.”
“it was getting a little bit nervous”
e Falcons’ final-round clash with Newport-Digman summed up their summer to date.
ey cruised to the first-innings points but had to fight tooth and nail to preserve the win and avoid a reversal of the result.
ey held on just with two wickets to spare.
“It was getting a little bit nervous, but we were able to hold on,” Radford said.
e stand-out for the Falcons was fast bowler Jake Styles, who took six first-innings wickets.
A er taking 50 wickets last summer, including 11 in the Williamstown and District Cricket Association A-turf grand final win over Williamstown Imperials, Styles has added 40 already this season to shape as a barometer for the Falcons heading into the finals.
“He’s certainly standing up for us,” Radford said.
e west B1 semi-finals will see the Falcons travel to Sunshine Heights, while Point Cook will host Sunshine United, with the winners to play in the grand final. \ LJ
