Wyndham council’s dra budget has been dealt a major blow, with the council set to lose about $10 million in federal funding over the next three years.
LastTuesday’sfederalbudgetrevealed plans to freeze increases to assistance grants given to councils to fund vital services. Among the results will be reductions to kindergarten funding.
e cuts came one day a er the council unveiled a $108 million capital works program for next financial year and announced plans to increase borrowings to $55 million to fund projects.
Mayor Bob Fairclough said the council stood to miss out on $2.7 million next financial year and about $10 million over the next three years. He said the cuts would force the council to review its spending.
“In 2014-15, we could be facing a reduction [in assistance grants] in the orderof$961,000,whichisamajorblow to our proposed budget,” Cr Fairclough said.
While the council will need to wait for the federal budget to pass through Parliament to understand its full impact on Wyndham, it could be forced toreducecapitalworksspending.
“Wyndham council staff are currently seeking more detail around the proposed federal budget, and while Senate approval is still required, early indications are incredibly concerning,” Cr Fairclough said.
“ e proposed federal budget will result in pressure on both state and local governments to make up for shortfalls in funding where vital services are required.
“Our residents pay taxes and should not be short-changed in terms of what they get back in their local community.’’
Municipal Association of Victoria president Cr Bill McArthur described the funding cuts as “catastrophic” and said they would hurt every ratepayer.
“Commonwealth financial assistance grants are a core revenue stream for local government,’’ he said.
‘‘Councils have only one form of own-source revenue: rates. Such a significant cut in federal funding leaves councils with two choices: cut services or increase rates.”
‘‘
Such a significant cut … leaves councils with two choices: cut services or increase rates
’’
- Bill McArthur
Cr McArthur said funding cuts had massive cumulative impacts with ratepayers le to foot the bill for the growing gap between costs and rates revenue.
e council also stands to lose $1.7 million if the government proceeds with cuts to a national partnership that provides children with 15 hours ofkindergartenaweekintheyearbefore they start school.
Cr Fairclough said the council had already planned and resourced for 15 hours of kindergarten for the municipality’s four-year-olds next financial year. He said the loss of funding was “an unreasonable cost shi ” for the council to absorb.
Wyndham Vale’s Laura Bradley will put on her most glamorous evening gown and put her best foot forward on Sunday as she vies for a chance to represent Victoria at the Miss World Australia national finals. The 23-year-old will be up against 20 other state finalists, competing in swimwear, evening wear and fashion wear, as well as facing questions from the judges. Ԃ Story: page 24
Wyndham residents will be the hardest hit in Victoria by the federal budget, figures have revealed.
If sweeping reforms to bulk-billed medical services, the Newstart allowance and family tax benefits are approved, 17,000 of the city’s families will be worse off.
e Lalor electorate, which includes Wyndham, has the highest number of people in Victoria on a family tax benefit (17,000),
the most bulk-billing services accessed (1.15 million), and the highest number of unemployed young people (2457).
Wyndham would be the second-worstaffected electorate in Australia, behind McMahon in western Sydney.
Lalor MP Joanne Ryan said she was worried about what the budget would mean for Wyndham residents.
“ is community hasn’t done anything wrong. We don’t deserve to be put in a position where families are making decisions between
seeing a doctor and buying food,” she said. “To metheunfairnessofitisthatit’sgoingtohitthis community harder than most communities.”
Ms Ryan said one of the most damaging aspects of the budget was the proposal to introduce a $7 co-payment for GP visits.
e $7 payment for a single parent on a Newstart allowance was a lot, Ms Ryan said, and if she, as an MP, were to make the payment at the same ratio of her much higher salary, she would be paying $97 every time she went to the doctor.
High hopes at former Mowbray site
e former Mowbray College site will reopen as a high school next year, the owner has revealed.
Intaj Khan, a Wyndham businessman and councillor,boughtthesiteoftheformercollege in 2012 for $6.7 million.
He revealed to Star Weekly that in March he was offered $10.5 million from developers keen to turn the site into a shopping centre and parking lot.
But Mr Khan said he knocked back the chance to make almost $4 million because he was determined to reopen it as a school.
“We could have taken the money and gone away,” Mr Khan said. “[But] the community can be confident that we are not here to make
money, we are here for the long term.
“ isschoolwon’thaveanyfinancialissues.”
Mr Khan revealed that initial plans to turn the campus into a primary school had been abandoned.
Pending approval from the Victorian Registration and Qualifications Authority, it would instead be reopened as a non-denominational private secondary school by the start of next year.
“We did a study and found that there is a greater need for secondary schools in this area,” he said.
e school will be renamed West Lakes Grammar School. Expressions of interest are now being accepted for years 7 and 8 students.
Mr Khan said the school would accept 120 students in the first year and would grow
steadily to meet its 472-student capacity.
Former principal of Eltham College David Warner was named as the chief consultant and interim principal for the school.
MrWarnersaidasearchforthefirstfull-time principal had now been launched.
“ e person we want for principal will need to be an educator, but we are not just looking for a manager or an administrator.
“ ey need to be forward-thinking and in touch with the community, and they need to be able to relate with young people and the teachers.”
Mowbray College’s three campuses closed in June 2012 a er it was announced the college had debts of more than $18 million.
Xavier Smerdon
“I know doctors here, and they bulk bill because they know that people will not come to the doctor if they have to put cash over the table,” she said.
“ ere are so many ramifications, but the biggest ramification is if people don’t go to the doctor in the initial stages of something it costs a lot more on the system at the hospital end.”
Treasurer Joe Hockey has said that the “modest” $7 fee would be used to fund a $20 billion medical research future fund.
Fee makes GP visits ‘too dear’
Wyndham’s sick residents will be among those hardest hit by last week’s federal budget if the government goes ahead with its plan to make people pay $7 to visit a doctor.
Figures from the National Health Performance Authority reveal that the majority of Wyndham and Hobsons Bay residents are relying on bulk-billed GP clinics to provide them with healthcare. e authority’s figures show that in 2012-13, 91 per cent of doctors’ appointments in the South Western Melbourne Medicare Local (SWMML) area, which covers Wyndham and Hobsons Bay, were bulk-billed.
SWMML chief executive Gaylene Coulton has warned that introducing a $7 co-payment for GP visits and other health services from July 2015 would directly affect the people who can afford it the least and that people may put off seeing a doctor.
“Best practice evidence shows that primary health care is the most economical way to manage the high cost of health service delivery,” she said.
Wyndham Vale single mum Kerry Arch, who runs a national support group for single parents, said the co-payment would make visiting the doctor too expensive for some families.
“We will have single parents who are living on such a tight budget that they can’t afford to take their children to the doctor.”
State Western Metropolitan Greens MP Colleen Hartland said the co-payment would be detrimental to low-income earners. “ e GP fee will discourage early action and lead to sicker communities, and higher health costs.”
Laura Michell
DAVID WARNER AND INTAJ KHAN DISCUSS SCHOOL PLANS
(Wayne Hawkins)
Bankruptcy rates hit new high
By Laura Michell
Wyndham has one the highest rates of insolvency in Victoria, with close to 80 residents declaring bankruptcy since October.
Latest figures from the federal government’s financial security authority reveal that 79 residents were declared bankrupt between October and March.
e city was second to Frankston, which recorded 89 bankruptcies in the same period.
ArecordnumberofWyndhamresidentsalso signed debt agreements in the past six months in an attempt to avoid declaring bankruptcy.
A debt agreement is a binding contract that can give creditors the right to take a portion of someone’s pay cheque to repay debts, or proceeds from the sale of property or assets. Proposing a debt agreement is an act of bankruptcy.
According to the authority, 73 agreements were signed in Wyndham, the highest in the state.
Wyndham Legal Service lawyer Juliet Akello said bankruptcy was a double-edged sword for anyone experiencing financial trouble, because it could increase their debt.
“An example would be a recent client who
The real Julia is Dr Gillard
Wyndham’s former federal voice and Australia’sfirstfemalePrimeMinisterwillnow be known as Dr Julia Gillard.
e former member for Lalor was given an honorary doctorate degree by Victoria University in recognition of the way she represented Melbourne’s west.
Victoria University Chancellor Mr George Pappas presented Ms Gillard with the honour last week.
“On behalf of Victoria University council I am delighted to acknowledge the work of Dr Gillard in promoting the crucial importance of education in developing a strong and dynamic society,” Mr Pappas said.
“Dr Gillard championed important reforms of the education sector designed to enhance educational outcomes for all Australians. On becoming Australia’s 27th Prime Minister, she provided strong leadership and introduced
significantsocialinitiativesincludingsweeping changes to the delivery of disability care.”
Dr Gillard told graduating students at the ceremony that education was one of the most important aspects of society.
“ e most powerful thing in our world is the power of education. It transforms lives and communities and nations, and eventually the whole world,” Dr Gillard said.
MrPappassaidtheuniversitychosetogiveDr Gillard the award because she “exemplified the university’s mission to provide opportunities for people of diverse backgrounds”.
Xavier Smerdon
Julia Gillard received her honorary doctorate from Victoria University. (Supplied)
‘‘ In the end, he was paying double the original debt ’’ - Juliet Akello
was being pursued by creditors. ey initiated bankruptcy proceedings and the payment of the legal fees was more than he could afford. In the end, he was paying double the original debt.”
Ms Akello said people o en were forced to sign debt agreements or declare bankruptcy because they had signed up for a loan they
couldn’t afford to repay. She said the legal service was o en called on to help people from the refugee and new migrant communities who did not realise they couldn’t afford the loan repayments.
“ is occurs because o en something in their life changes. ey are made redundant or their job changes and they are unable to meet the repayments.
“In the end, they are pursued by creditors and are made bankrupt.”
MsAkellosaidanyoneindangerofdefaulting on their loan should contact the creditors and explain their situation.
Council plans green community
By Laura Michell
Wyndhamcouncilwillspendtensofthousands of dollars developing a plan for a new community at Tarneit West, aimed at reducing car dependency and traffic congestion.
e development will be built on a 113-hectare site at 1160 Sayers Road, which was bought by the council in 2010 for $27 million.
e council’s proposed 2014-15 budget recommends that $70,000 be spent on a site structure plan for the new community.
e new community is likely to include a town centre, recreation facilities, housing and mixed use commercial developments.
e area has the potential to be accessed from three existing roads and will be built adjacent to the proposed Tarneit West Regional Rail Link station.
Council chief executive Kerry ompson said the project, which is being supported by the federal government, would promote high quality urban design, improve open space and reduce levels of car dependency.
“Wyndham City’s brief for the site structure plan is to establish a transit-oriented and liveable development with walking, cycling, buses and trains as transport modes, and increased connectivity to other parts of the municipality,” Ms ompson said.
She said it was too early to say what type of community facilities and housing would be included on the site, but an information display at a community meeting to coincide with the dra budget’s release suggested a swimming pool would be part of the project.
Once the site structure plan is complete, the council will develop a brief for the masterplan.
In 2012, the council received a $448,500 federal government grant to develop the masterplan.
(Joe Mastroianni)
X marks a shot at fame for teen
A Werribee teenager is happily anticipating a spectacular boost to his music career.
Justin Vasquez, 15, will feature on television talent show e X Factor next month.
While specifics of the performance cannot be revealed, Justin received a standing ovation from all four celebrity judges.
He admits that performing in front of a few hundred people still makes him nervous but is excited about the prospect of several million people seeing his latest act.
“Usually before I perform I still get nervous,” he said.
“It really depends on each performance. It’s a lot easier if the lights are off and I can’t see the audience.
“When I auditioned for X Factor, I was shaking.”
Justin said he hoped that by appearing on the show he would be able to create a career out of what he has been doing since he was nine-years-old.
“I need the exposure so that people know there is someone like me out there,” he said.
e Grange P-12 College student said he o en found himself singing without even meaning to.
“I love everything about music,” he said. “It helps me express myself and gives me a voice … it speaks for me”.
Xavier Smerdon
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Kevin Hillier looks on the lighter side of life in Werribee
The definition of an opinion is a belief, impression, judgment or prevailing view held by a person. Last time I looked it was not illegal to have an opinion, nor compulsory that you agree with it. For the most part this column is opinion based, hence the title and I welcome your feedback whether you agree or disagree with me.
I am a big grown up adult so send your emails or letters to me and feel free to stop me in the supermarket – many do. Please don’t do what some have done lately and go behind my back to people I do business with. It is cowardly and it totally devalues your argument. It is mean-spirited and personal, two traits I do not include in the views expressed in this paper. If you are in public office you know the territory and accept that not everyone is going to agree with you or like your decisions. If you don’t, find a new vocation.
A comedy about Werribee is about to hit our beloved Cultural Centre next month and you
can contribute. Damian Callinan and Mickey Dhavebeentakingtheir Road Trip showacross Australia and will hit Werribee on June 21. ey will spend days beforehand filming local sites and people and you can make suggestions via their Facebook page (Road Trip with Damian Callinan & Mickey D). I know there will be poo farm jokes but I am hoping that it will rise a bit above that most obvious of targets. It is a great idea for a show and I look forward to seeing what the boys come up with. If you are really keen you can fill out a questionnaire that you can get from the Cultural Centre.
Iamgoingtomakesuretheyareawareofthe home based “Hair Saloon” which I saw near my place recently. One can only imagine what goes on inside the Saloon. Surely everyone gets a beer rinse pre cut, and no doubt customers are offered coffee, tea or hair of the dog. And of course there is the ongoing joke about our
If you have any news or events please let me know on the email kevin@howdypartnersmedia. com.au
Briefs
Wyndham’s volunteer heroes
Do you know someone who goes above and beyond to help others? If so, consider nominating them for a community volunteer award. The Wyndham council awards recognise people who have made outstanding contributions to the community. Awards will be presented in categories of ‘young volunteer of the year’, ‘community engagement’, ‘community health and well-being’, ‘environment and sustainability’, ‘sports and recreation’, and ‘culture, arts and tourism’. To nominate someone, call 9742 0777.
Reconciliation Week festivities Wyndham residents can celebrate Reconciliation Week by taking part in a Werribee River walk this Saturday. Local Aborigines will share their stories of the river and its significance to them during the two-hour walk. Wyndham Vale library will also mark the week by screening indigenous films at a movie and dinner night on May 27. A youth film night will be held at the Youth Resource Centre on May 29. Bookings essential. Details: 9742 0777.
Proud Sponsors of In The Doghouse & The Hillier View
Proud Sponsors of In The Doghouse, The Hillier View and Foodbytes Corner Heaths and Morris Road Hoppers Crossing Ph: 9749 6444 Web: www.westpointford.com.au
Retail therapy with stolen card Police are investigating the theft of a credit card that was used in a spending spree across the western suburbs late last year. The card, taken from a Newport house, is believed to have been used by two men at shops in Sanctuary Lakes, Point Cook and Hoppers Crossing on December 27 and 28. Information to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Cut to street cops condemned
By Xavier Smerdon
ere are fewer police on the beat in Wyndham than there were four years ago, according to figures released by the Victorian opposition.
Tarneit MP and opposition shadow treasurer Tim Pallas said that despite criminal offences increasing by more than 14 per cent in Wyndham, the number of frontline police in the area had fallen by more than 20 per cent. Mr Pallas said documents obtained from VictoriaPolicethroughfreedomofinformation showed the number of frontline police had dropped from 106 in 2010 to 84.
Mr Pallas attributed the reduction in police directly to funding cuts imposed by the state government.
“When Denis Napthine cuts $100 million from Victoria Police and cuts the number of officers on the beat, he cuts support to the Wyndham community,” Mr Pallas said.
“Wyndham deserves better than a government that’s too dysfunctional to keep our community safe.”
But Police Minister Kim Wells said in a statement that there were an extra 1525 police in Victoria since Labor le office in November 2010. “ e coalition government is on track
Students in stitches
e next time you pass Point Cook Senior Secondary College, don’t be surprised if it’s covered in yarn.
A group of year 10 students has spent the past month learning to knit and crochet in preparation for their plan to “yarn-bomb” the school.
e students are covering the school in colourful knitted squares as part of the school’s community action program that year 10 students are required to complete.
For one semester, students work in small teams to complete projects that will benefit the school and wider Point Cook community.
Mykalyn LaDuke, who came up with the idea, said the girls hoped that decorating the school would make students feel happier about coming to school and give them something enjoyable to talk about. “We plan to hang a banner in the courtyard and cover
fences, bins, water fountains and trees in yarn,” she said.
“We’ve spent about a month knitting the pieces that we will use to yarn-bomb. It’s taken a while, but it will be worth it.”
Mykalyn’s mum, Kimberly, has helped the students, visiting the school regularly to give them advice on knitting and crocheting techniques.
“I think that what the girls are doing is something really different and fun,” she said.
“ ey all had to learn to knit to do it, but they didn’t let that put them off taking part.”
Laura Michell
Kiara and Hara prepare their school for yarn-bombing. (Supplied)
‘‘ Our frontline members are stretched to the limit ’’
- Ron Iddles
to deliver 1700 additional frontline police by November at a cost of $602 million,” he said.
“AsLaborshouldknow,the chiefcommissioner ofpoliceisindependentlyresponsibleformaking decisions as to where additional officers are located.”
Earlier this month, the secretary of the Victorian Police Union Ron Iddles announced
that members would be holding a rally to draw attention to the lack of police in Geelong and surrounding areas.
“Membershavebeentellingusloudandclear for some time about the poor state of frontline numbers all over the state and the stress and anxiety this is causing them,” Mr Iddles said.
“ e result is that our frontline members are stretched to the limit and at breaking point.
“ is is a totally unacceptable situation which short-changes not just our members but the respective communities [they] so diligently serve and protect.”
Care future takes shape
e demolition of one of Wyndham’s nursing homes is beginning as it makes way for a new, multi-million dollar aged-care centre.
Baptcare is redeveloping Synnot Street’s Wyndham Lodge Community in a bid to create more aged-care beds in the municipality.
e $20-million redevelopment will replace the 28-year-old 60-bed nursing home centre with a 150-bed age care facility. enewhomeisexpectedtobecompletedby February, 2016.
Baptcare aged-care operations general manager Michael Wilson said the project was an investment in Wyndham’s future aged-care requirements. As reported by Star Weekly, 29 of the nursing home’s residents had to find new homes to make way for the redevelopment. Many families objected to being asked to move
their loved ones and raised concerns about their ability to cope with the move.
But 21 residents were able to move to other aged-care homes in Wyndham, while six transferred to Baptcare’s Westhaven Community in Footscray. Two residents scheduled to move were able to stay at Wyndham Lodge.
Baptcare initially tried to buy neighbouring land so no one would have to move.
Mr Wilson said Baptcare remained confident that the redevelopment would not have a significant impact on the remaining residents.
Staff will spend 2014 training and improving their skills before the redeveloped centre’s opening.
Laura Michell
(Wayne Hawkins)
Letters to the editor
Councillor warns of 10 per cent rates Well done, Cr Heather Marcus. Glad to see commonsense being applied. We need more of it.
Graeme O, via web
Exactly what Labor did. Put us into debt for years, now the Libs have us paying it off. Any councillor that votes for a 10 per cent rates hike will find themselves out on the street.
Plan It Right, via web
Kevin Hillier’s budget view
Let’s face it, Mr Hillier. Until Wyndham’s electorates become marginal, nothing will change. Taxpayers will foot the bill for the most urgent infrastructure upgrades. See the money to be spent on Dohertys Road. Albert Fey, via web
Function Room), 520 Sayers Road Wednesday 28th May STARTING 11AM For further enquiries: Phone: 9974 6868
Take the road safety pledge
On May 30, road users around Australia will take part in Fatality Free Friday, an event that aims to keep the day’s road toll to zero.
As a local lawyer representing crash victims, I see so much pain and suffering in people affected by road trauma, not just the immediate victims but also their families and friends. I urge all road users to visit www.fatalityfreefriday.com and pledge to drive safely and obey road rules. By looking out for each other and taking extra care, the road toll can be reduced.
Sarah Millen, Maurice Blackburn Lawyers
Napthine announces cheaper water
While Labor costs the community billions of dollars with an unworkable and unnecessary desalination plant, the Coalition returns a billion dollars to the community thanks to its superior economic management. Why anyone would ever vote for Labor is beyond me.
Tony A, via web
High rental prices
There are 5769 properties for sale or rent in Wyndham. How do we get that turned into emergency housing for those who need it? Someone has to put up some money to make it all happen. Does anyone out there with a spare couple of million care enough to do anything, or do they only care about themselves?
Michael Young, via web
The Star Weekly welcomes letters no longer than 200 words. All letters are subject to editing and must include a name, address and phone number. Post: 12 Howes St, Airport West, 3142. Email: westletters@starweekly.com.au
Charity begins at home
Werribee Football Club hopes to kick goals off the field next weekend when its custom-built charity house goes up for auction.
e club has spent the past five months building the property at 15 Kayden Court, Werribee.
e three-bedroom house near the Werribee River is the third to be built and auctioned by the club in the past six years.
Members and sponsors have been involved in the project from the beginning, helping with everything from pouring the slab to furnishing the house.
Tigers chief executive Mark Penaluna said proceedswouldhelpfundtheclub’scommunity development programs.
“It allows us to continue our involvement in the community,” he said. “We have
staff members working in the field assisting with community organisations, local footy clubs and Auskick.
“We’re also working with the federal government to help people from diverse backgrounds become involved in the game, as well as working with the council and police.”
Penaluna said the club had been amazed by the support it received from residents and businesses, including Westwood First National Real Estate, which is auctioning the house.
“It has been a lot of work and now there’s a lot of anticipation in the air,” he said.
e house will be auctioned at noon on Saturday, May 31. Visit westwoodfn.com
Laura Michell
Grants help forge a stronger connection
Wyndham schools and groups will share in $5000 from Stockland’s Community Grants Program to help fund community projects.
Last week, Stella Maris College, Alamanda K-9 College, Point Cook Neighbourhood Watch, Wyndham Community and Education
Centre and Wyndham Little Buddies Toy Library were announced as the inaugural recipients of the grants, run by the owner of Point Cook Town Centre.
Stockland chief operating officer Michael Rosmarinsaidthegrantsweregivento“worthy
and deserving community organisations”. “[ e organisations] help the communities in which we operate to thrive and we value their continued support and efforts,” he said.
More than 36 community groups applied for the grants.
A day to care for carers
Wyndham residents who support someone with a mental illness are being invited to attend a day of free activities as a gesture of thanks.
In-home care provider Care Connect will host the event on Friday.
CareConnectchiefexecutivePaulOstrowski said it was important that the community give back to the people who do so much daily to help residents who are struggling.
“We know about one in five Australians will experience mental health difficulties each year. In Wyndham that’s almost 36,000 people,” Mr Ostrowski said.
“Families and carers play such an important role. Care Connect believes it’s essential that families and carers are supported to develop techniques to maintain their own well-being.”
Care Connect will host its Pathways to Resilience Expo at the Laverton Community Centre, 95-105 Railway Avenue, from 10am to 3pm this Friday. Included will be African drumming performances, music therapy and meditation, presentations on nutrition, personal stories from other carers, and information stalls. For more details, call 9362 8000oremailmcampbell@careconnect.org.au.
e successful applicants will use their share of the $5000 to fund projects such as the Wyndham Multicultural Fiesta and school music programs.
Laura Michell
Info sought on ‘hit and run’
Police are appealing for witnesses to an alleged hit and run that resulted in a Werribee man being hospitalised.
e man, 19, was taken to the Royal Melbourne Hospital on May 13 with non-life-threatening injuries.
Police said he was running south on Amcor Way, Campbellfield, just before midnight when he was struck by a car travelling in the same direction.
Police gave first aid to the man before paramedics arrived and took him to hospital.
It’s alleged that the driver of the car le the scene. A Craigieburn man, 19, was arrested by police last Wednesday and is assisting them with their inquiries.
Police spokeswoman Belinda Batty said someone had called Crime Stoppers about the incident and she urged the caller to contact them again.
Information to 1800 333 000 or visit crimestoppers.com.au.
Laura Michell
Xavier Smerdon
CHRISTINE HARDING, CLIENT FACILITATOR WITH CARE CONNECT
(Damjan
Janevski)
Abduction case goes to court
By Ben Cameron
Giuseppe Joe Trifilo, 40, of Werribee, is in police custody following an alleged car the in Deer Park while a nine-year-old girl was on the back seat.
Trifilo has been charged with offences including false imprisonment, unlicensed driving, the of a motor vehicle, threats to kill and committing an indictable offence while on bail. He has denied the offences.
Appearing in Sunshine Magistrates Court last week via video link, Trifilo did not apply for bail.
He was remanded in custody and will face a contest mention on July 16 at the Sunshine Magistrates Court.
Trifilo is accused of stealing a Kia hatchback with pink number plates, “SING 01”, from veteran South Australian musicians Dave Clark, 70, and Kate Townsend, 69, from a Deer Park BP petrol station on Ballarat Road on
Tuesday morning, April 22.
Star Weekly understands Mr Clark, Ms Townsend and their sponsored grandchild, a six-year-old boy, le the car while the Tibetan girl was still in the back seat.
It is alleged an offender snuck into the car and drove off, picking up a female companion who was carrying a TV along a service road.
e girl was let out of the car. e female is still at large.
Melton Crime Investigation Unit’s Detective
Robert Henley told Star Weekly Ms Townsend had gone to pay for the fuel while Mr Clark took the boy to the toilet, leaving the girl in the back seat for less than a minute. Police said it was at that point that the car was stolen. e couple were returning to Adelaide from a gig at Wild yme in the Yarra Valley. Mr Clark was an early influence on iconic Australian musician Paul Kelly and was mentioned in his autobiography How To Make Gravy
After receiving a $750 grant from the Thermoskin Community Sports Fund, a Werribee netball club is vowing to set up scholarships to help girls from refugee and low-income families take part in the sport. Wyndham Victory Netball Club, launched seven years ago, will provide players from disadvantaged backgrounds with the scholarships to cover the cost of their uniforms. Club spokesman Phil Morley said that while netball was a relatively cheap sport to get into, there were girls from the refugee community who couldn’t afford to take part. Morley said the club focused on encouraging people to take up netball regardless of their age, religion or culture.
Dear Resident,
By now you will have digested the Federal Budget, for me, it’s difficult to identify anyone locally not affected. Before the election the Prime Minister promised no cuts to health, no cuts to education, no changes to the pension.
Before the election the Prime Minister promised no new taxes and no tax increases.
As our community offers an affordable and welcoming lifestyle, the many young families who make this area home will be hardest hit by this budget.
No more School Kids Bonus, a decrease in Family benefits, no funding for students with a disability in any of our schools, kindergarten hours cut back, a new $7 GP tax and higher costs for medicines. With 92% of doctor visits currently bulk-billed, in Lalor this means an extra $11million cost for local residents.
We will be slugged with a petrol tax every time we fill up the car. This budget will make it harder for our local young people to get ahead by increasing university and TAFE costs, while making it harder to access youth allowance.
Some unemployed young people will have their income cut by $47 per week; some will get no payments for 6 months if they lose their job. At the same time, the government is cutting existing employment programs and apprenticeship support.
The Budget has done nothing to help our manufacturing sector or those affected by the recent jobs cuts at Toyota, Alcoa and the Geelong Refinery. Indeed industry assistance and job programs have been cut.
There are approximately 17,000 families, 10,000 pensioners, 5,000 disability pensioners, 3,300 disabled children in our schools who have been asked to do the heavy lifting.
This Budget is unfair and unwarranted, as part of the Labor team, I will fight to ensure a fair go for hard working, decent people in Lalor. I will take this message to the Abbott Government and urge you to do the same.
Kind regards,
KYIA FILIPOVIC, ARWAL BAL, KADRA ABDI
(Wayne Hawkins)
Joanne Ryan MP
Support service slams budget
By Benjamin Millar
Services tackling family violence in the western suburbs have been le high and dry by the state budget, according to Women’s Health West.
e claim comes as Labor vows to hold a royal commission on family violence if it wins November’s election.
WHW chief executive Robyn Gregory said the Footscray-based service was stunned by the government’sfailuretotackletheoverwhelming demand for family violence services in the west.
“ isbudgetprovidesnoadditionalfundsfor family violence services to respond to women in crisis despite 29 family violence deaths in Victoria last year, including the devastating murder of Fiona Warzywoda in Sunshine in April,” she said.
“ ere’s no provision for the essential work of preventing violence in the first place.”
Women in the west are particularly at risk of violence, with several municipalities recording above-averageratesofreportedfamilyviolence.
Demand for WHW services has skyrocketed by 150 per cent since 2009-10, but a funding boost of just 25 per cent has failed to keep pace with the growing caseload.
Dr Gregory said that with family violence costing the state economy more than $3.4 billion a year, it made “fiscal and moral sense” to move it up the budget priority list.
“ e additional $1.1 million per year over four years to expand high-risk pilot strategies is welcome but minuscule compared to $300 million in new money allocated to the
much smaller but more visible problem of public transport crime.”
Community Services Minister Mary Wooldridge said the government would invest an additional $4.5 million expanding a pilot risk management program.
“ e Victorian government is expanding a successful approach that brings together family violence and human services, police, corrections and courts to keep women and children safe and hold dangerous perpetrators to account,” she said.
Opposition leader Daniel Andrews said a Labor government would establish Australia’s first royal commission on family violence.
‘‘ There’s
no provision
for … preventing violence in the first place ’’ - Robyn Gregory
Mr Andrews said victims seeking help faced endless waiting lists, underfunded support networks, an undermanned policeforce and toothless intervention orders.
“Too many are later described as the victim of an unexpected, isolated incident.
“Well, there’s nothing unexpected or isolated about it. It’s a vicious pattern.”
WHW family violence services manager JackyTuckersaidtheservicewouldexpectsuch an inquiry to include a reinstatement of the family violence deaths review, which provided evidence to coroners to help them make recommendations to reduce family violence.
Re-skill for the road
Just as going to the doctor to get a check-up is important when you get older, senior residents of Melbourne’s west are being encouraged to give their driving skills a once-over.
e RoadSafe Westgate Community Road Safety Council will be holding a senior drivers expo so that older people can refresh their skills.
Co-ordinator of the older drivers program Leigh Hardinge said senior drivers were frequently falsely represented as being involved in a lot of crashes.
“ e evidence tells us that senior drivers are much less likely to be involved in crashes than novice drivers,” Mr Hardinge said.
“Monash University research also tells us that senior drivers are not more likely to cause crashes than younger people.
“[But] the fact that senior drivers, in general, are relatively safe, doesn’t mean that they can’t
improve.”
Mr Hardinge said there were many factors that could contribute to an older person being involved in an accident.
“It’s really important for drivers to know what effect their medicines may have on their driving,” he said.
“As we get older, the distances we drive tend to go down. It becomes easier to forget about keeping the car in a roadworthy condition.”
RoadSafe Westgate will be hosting its next senior drivers expo on June 14.
For details call 9315 9464.
e Victorian Community Road Safety Partnership Program has provided contribution funding to support RoadSafe Westgate in addressing local road safety issues within its municipalities.
Xavier Smerdon
SUPPORTING SENIOR DRIVERS
In the context of an aging population, older road user safety will continue to be a key concern for an ever increasingly large percentage of the Victorian community. Therefore, as a priority RoadSafe Westgate promotes and organises best practice older driver programs.
Senior Drivers Expo 14th June 2014
For information on Health & Driving, Prescribed Medicines & Driving, Road Law Updates, Free & Confidential Roadworthy checks & driving assessments.
An opportunity to ask questions of experts in driving, roadworthiness and road law.
Bookings are essential contact Leigh on 9315 9464, there are limited places so get in early.
RoadSafe Westgate Community Road Safety Council is a road safety advocacy group that implements road safety programs and is supported by the municipalities of Hobsons Bay, Maribyrnong, Melton and Wyndham.
(Damjan Janevski)
LEIGH HARDINGE
Our litterbugs among the worst
By Laura Michell
e Environment Protection Authority receives an average of 80 complaints a month about litter in Wyndham, making it one of Victoria’s worst municipalities for littering.
New figures released by the EPA reveal that between December 2013 and March this year, 320 complaints were made about litter in Wyndham.
Hobsons Bay was the worst area, with 623 complaints, followed by Melbourne (514) and Brimbank (387).
During the four month reporting period, the EPA received 9612 litter reports.
EPAactingchiefexecutiveKatrinaMcKenzie said the results highlighted that Victorians were fed up with litterers.
“Weincreasedournumberofregisteredlitter reporters by 39 per cent on the same time last
year, which shows that people are more aware of the problem and are willing to do something about it,” she said.
“Litter is one of this state’s most unnecessary burdens, with a clean-up bill [of] almost $800 million every year.”
Wyndham LitterWatch executive officer John Forrester said the group didn’t believe people were doing enough to dispose of their rubbish properly.
(Wayne Hawkins)
As reported by Star Weekly, Mr Forrester collected 120 pieces of rubbish from Jamieson in Point Cook during a Saturday morning clean-up last month.
Morethanhalfofthelitterwasfromtakeaway foods, with Mr Forrester collecting straws, serviettes, coffee cups and food packaging.
Litterers can face fines of $288 for a small piece of rubbish or unlit cigarette, increasing to $577 for a lit cigarette.
The taste of revolution
Baden Powell College pupils joined children in 74 countries putting their culinary skills to the test last Friday as part of celebrity chef Jamie Oliver’s Food Revolution Day. Pupils took part in a 30-minute interactive cooking class in which Oliver showed them how to make healthy “rainbow wraps”. The class was pre-recorded and streamed all over the world via the internet. The aim of Food Revolution Day was to show children how much fun cooking can be and to encourage them to create healthy meals.
MAKUEI AND ALICE
Building a bright future
By Xavier Smerdon
A Werribee carpenter has been recognised as the best apprentice at his trade in Victoria.
Haydon Solomano, 21, was named Master Builders Association of Victoria’s apprentice carpenter of the year earlier this month.
Mr Solomano, who recently completed his apprenticeship and has already set up his own business, H J S Carpentry, said he never expected to win the award.
“I had no idea at all, it was quite a shock,” he said. “I literally had no idea I was even in with a chance.”
Minister for Higher Education and Skills Nick Wakeling said Mr Solomano’s award showed how important trade training was for many young people.
“ e calibre of apprentices graduating from TAFE building and construction courses is impressive,” Mr Wakeling said.
“It shows the very important role TAFE’s play in higher education and skills.”
Mr Solomano said he always wanted to work with his hands but it took some time for him to discover that carpentry was the trade for him.
“I did cabinet making for work experience but I hated the smell a lacquer, so I thought I would give carpentry a go,” he said.
“I like the fact that at the end of the day you can look back and say ‘I did that’, and be proud of what you did.”
While Mr Solomano is working as a subcontractor he said that once he gets more experience he would eventually like to start taking on jobs by himself.
Werribee City Scene
Briefs
Learner faces drink-driving charge
A Point Cook learner driver has had her licence suspended after being caught with a blood-alcohol reading of .197. Police said the woman, 19, was pulled over after leaving Point Cook town centre on May 12. She was stopped as she entered her driveway a few hundred metres from where she started. She allegedly told police she thought she would be OK as she had driven the short distance on other occasions. The woman was taken to Werribee police station, where she recorded a reading almost four times the limit for a fully-licensed driver. The legal limit for learner drivers is .00. She will be summonsed to appear in court at a later date.
Council takes stand
Wyndham mayor Bob Fairclough and Health Minister David Davis have raised a rainbow ag as a statement against homophobia, biphobia and transphobia. The ceremony, held on International Day Against Homophobia last Friday, also celebrated Wyndham’s gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, intersex and queer community.
Parenting forum
Wyndham parents of teenagers are being invited to attend a series of free information sessions featuring quali ed speakers. The next information evening will be held at the Youth Resource Centre, 86 Derrimut Road, Hoppers Crossing from 7pm this Thursday. For more details, phone 8734 1355.
Carpenter Haydon Solomano on the job.
(Damjan Janevski)
MY WYNDHAM
Gary King has cleaned gira e bones and met a gorilla since volunteering at Werribee Open Range Zoo, writes Rebecca Miller
WerribeeresidentandzoovolunteerGaryKing says he wasn’t really an animal lover before starting work for the zoo. “Now it has changed my thinking about wild animals,” he says.
What’s your connection to the local community?
I started volunteering at Werribee Open Range Zoo in October last year and am there twice a week. I retired from paid work but wanted to keep active so that’s what started my volunteering .
I spent the rst four weeks cleaning and preparing gira e bones for the “Walk Tall for Gira es” children’s activity which involved the kids using the bones to put a gira e skeleton together.
I’ve also been involved with horticulture by watering plants around the zoo and I went into the gorilla enclosure – while it was empty – and did mulching. I got to meet the gorilla a erwards, which was great.
I’ve assisted in the “Keeper for a Day” program and for the next three months I’m working with the “Ranger Kids” program which involves children visiting a mock African village at the zoo which has a vet hospital. e kids can dress up as medics or rangers and attend to the “sick” stu ed toy animals.
e zoo is a great place to volunteer because you get to do di erent things – I recently met a rhino and three servals which are the largest of the small cats [pictured].
What would you change in your neighbourhood?
I’dliketoseemorepeopleinWyndhambecome members of Werribee Open Range Zoo. It’s so close to us and there’s plenty to see.
MywifeandIo envisitthereonweekendsand jump on a safari bus to look around.
Whatwouldyounotchange?
at Presidents Park and walk our dog, and the two dogs we mind, along the river. People come from the city to walk along the river, that’s how good it is.
Where’sthebestplaceforafeed?
We like to get takeaway from Golden Grill Turkish restaurant at Station Square in Werribee. e chicken kebabs are amazing! ere are more restaurants in Werribee now and they’re all good along High Street. (Supplied)
Presidents Park and the River Bend walk along Werribee River. My wife and I y kites
I have never regretted coming to live in Wyndham and have no thoughts of leaving.
TARNEIT ROAD HEALTH CLINIC
Retiring at Rose Grange has attracted so much attention that we’ve extended the village.
A release event you must not miss.
Beautifully designed and at the forefront of retirement living, Rose Grange continues to exceed expectations with its latest stage release. Designed to offer everything retirees are looking for, residents of these beautifully finished units enjoy village amenities such as a swimming pool, health and beauty facilities, bowling green and more. With Wyndham Plaza, Hogan’s Corner, the vast Werribee Plaza and cinemas just minutes away Rose Grange is the perfect place to call home.
You’re invited.
We’d love to see you at our Open Day release event on Saturday 24th May from 12 pm - 2 pm.
2 BEDROOM UNITS FROM $275,000*
You’re welcome to come and tour the village and view our brand new display unit. Feel free to take a look around the pool, craft area and veggie garden while we introduce you to some of our residents. We’ll be serving a light lunch and you can hear first hand about the lifestyle residents enjoy at Rose Grange. We look forward to seeing you at 83 Kulin Drive (cnr Leakes Road), Tarneit.
^Offers end 30 June 2014, while stocks last. Vehicles must be purchased and delivered between 1st May and 30th June 2014. Premium paint on all vehicles at additional cost. Unlimited km Warranty. Note: 5 year/130,000km warranty for vehicles used for the following: rental vehicles, hire cars, taxis, courier vehicles, driving school vehicles, security vehicles, bus and tour vehicles. A. Recommended drive away price Rio S 3 - door manual. B. Recommended drive away price Cerato sedan and hatch S manual. C. Recommended drive away price Sportage Si manual. *$1,500 Cash back offer available on all Cerato models, all Sorento models & Sportage 2013 model year only. See your participating Kia dealer for full terms and conditions. Offer valid while vehicle stocks last and excludes government, fleet and rental buyers. Kia reserves the right to change, supersede or extend these offers. For full terms and conditions visit www.kia.com.au. ¥ Offer available to approved applicants of Nissan Financial Services (Australian Credit Licence Number 391464) only; Conditions fees and charges apply. Excludes Government, Rental and National Fleet customers. Based on a consumer loan with 60 monthly repayments of (1)$210.14, (2)$384.15, (3)$297.15, (4)$216.83, (5)$230.22, (6)$364.08, (7)$377.46, (8)$431.00, (9)$457.78, (10)$524.71, (11)$564.86. Deposit of (1)$2,698.00, (2)$5,298.00, (3)$3,998.00, (4)$2,798.00, (5)$2,998.00, (6)$4,998.00, (7)$5,198.00, (8)$5,998.00, (9)$6,398.00, (10)$7,398.00, (11)$7,998.00 and balloon of (1)$2,698.00, (2)$5,298.00, (3)$3,998.00, (4)$2,798.00, (5)$2,998.00, (6)$4,998.00, (7)$5,198.00, (8)$5,998.00, (9)$6,398.00, (10)$7,398.00, (11)$7,998.00. Total amount payable over the term (1)$18,004.40, (2)$33,645.00, (3)$25,825.00, (4)$18,605.80, (5)$19,809.20, (6)$31,840.80, (7)$33,043.60, (8)$37,856.00, (9)$40,262.80, (10)$46,278.60, (11)$49,887.60. Offer based on an APR of 7.75%. WARNING: Comparison rate is true only for the example given and may not include all fees and charges. Different terms, fees or other loan amounts might result in a different comparison rate. Comparison rate for the purpose of the National Credit Code is based on a 5 year secured
Join Salvos in salvation
Victorians are being encouraged to give more generously than ever for this year’s annual Red Shield Appeal.
e nationwide Salvation Army fund-raiser was launched earlier this month.
Last year, more than $22 million of the $42 million raised in Victoria was from the regions.
Organisers hope the state will again make a huge contribution to this year’s national appeal targetof $80million.Money raised from the appeal is used to help deliver more than 1000 social programs for people in need.
Doorknockers will be out and about on the weekend of May 24-25, but there are plenty of other opportunities to make a donation, with an army of volunteers collecting at football games, shopping centres and intersections.
Salvation Army’s fund-raising secretary Evan Cassidy can’t stress enough the community’s responsibility to donate.
“We help those who in many cases can’t help themselves,” he said. “Raising as much as we possibly can is the main focus. is year’s theme, ‘Our help is in your hands’, reflects the reliance the Salvation Army has on community members to chip in.”
Money raised will go toward aged-care facilities, youth support, disability services, women’s refuges and employment and education training.
To register to become a doorknocker or to make a donation to the appeal, call 13 77 258 or visit www.salvos.org.au.
Natalia Wills
(Damjan Janevski)
Long road led to life of freedom
By Xavier Smerdon
Nothing was ever going to stop Hoppers Crossing’s Nisreen Dahalan from becoming a doctor.
Growing up as a Palestinian in Saudi Arabia, she knew she wanted to help people.
Whatever hurdles may face budding medical students in Australia, they pale in comparison to those that Dr Dahalan was confronted with.
A er three years of studying in Palestine, where she was not allowed to travel freely and conflicts prevented students from going to university, she was forced to finish her last year of university in Jordan.
She spent years moving around the Middle East, including stays in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, and being separated from her engineer husband, until they were eventually reunited in Jordan.
“My uncle was a politician in Palestine and the conditions were so bad that everyone in my family was in danger,” Dr Dahalan said.
“When I lived there my life was so much more complicated. ere is no respect for human life.”
roughout her professional life, she was never once paid for her services; instead she had to pay if she wanted to practise medicine.
In 2009, Dr Dahalan’s husband moved to Australia a er his brother was killed by the radical Islamic group Hamas.
Finally, 14 months later, in June 2010, Dr Dahalan was approved for a protection visa and joined him.
She brought their two young children with her and the couple’s third son was born in Australia.
DrDahalanisnowemployedattheDerrimut Road Medical Centre, but visa restrictions mean she’s only allowed to work evenings and
weekends. “I’m very happy now that I’m finally here,” she says.
“Sometimes I cry because it is so good. It feels so good to be earning money and to
be recognised and respected by a country like Australia.
“We needed to leave where we were, not just for me but for my kids.
“We needed to do something.” Dr Dahalan says she now wants to continue studyingandbecomeaspecialistandeventually receive Australian citizenship.
(Joe Mastroianni)
NISREEN DAHALAN AND HER THIRD SON
(Damjan
Mayoral Column
The release of the State Government
Beauty with a cause
welcome
Proposed Budget 2014/2015 and/or the
complete the
►MORE LOCAL DOCTORS XOW WORKIXG
►OX-SITE RADIOLOGY & PATHOLOGY
►PODIATRY
►CHILD PSYCHOLOGIST
►EXERCISE PHYSIOLOGIST
►PHYSIO FACILITIES
►DIETICIAX
►PSYCHOLOGY
By Laura Michell
When Wyndham Vale’s Laura Bradley takes to the stage at Melbourne’s Miss World Australia Victorian nals this Sunday, she won’t just be trying to win a beauty contest – she will be trying to help local charities.
e 23-year-old dental nurse dreams of winning the Miss World title so she can use it to boost her charity work.
“What attracted me to Miss World is that it is involved in charity. It drew me in. It’s all about beauty as a cause,” she said.
“I went to ailand where I worked in an orphanage, and when I was living in Darwin, I volunteered at an Aboriginal camp in the Kakadu National Park, which was really special. I volunteer with the Salvation Army. I really enjoy doing things like that and would love to be able to do more to help people.
“I would love to use the Miss World title to help a charity. People are more generous when you have the support of a program like Miss World.”
On Sunday, Ms Bradley will compete against 20 other contestants who made it through preliminary interviews to become Victorian nalists.
ey will compete in three categories –swimwear, fashion wear and evening gowns – and be asked questions so the judges can determine whether they have what it takes to represent Victoria at the Miss World Australia national nals.
Ms Bradley said she loved competing in pageants because they allowed her to meet other girls with similar interests.
“All the girls encourage each other, which is really lovely,” she said. “Taking part in the pageants boosts your own con dence. It makes you feel empowered.”
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Introductory offer, limited time only.
Before I did Bikram Yoga I lived with discomfort from a whiplash injury and dealt with depression and anxiety. In the 2 years I have been practicing Bikram yoga, I’ve slept better, had more energy, and learnt to control my reactions to everyday stress, manage neck pain, prioritize my time and have been able to come off previous antidepressants. I see life more positively now and I am happy.The instructors at Werribee are lovely and will guide you through every aspect of your practice, while treating you like family.
I love to sweat at Bikram Yoga Werribee,do you? Emma Cairns
By Natalia Wills
Patrons can expect audience participation when Werribee singer-songwriter Jack Gramski performs at the Wyndham Cultural Centre later this month.
Cr Adele Hegedich says the program will also promote local music of all genres to fans of all ages.
Gramski will share original folk songs and stories with audience members seated on the stage. His work combines, folk, blues, punk and dark humour. Gramski has entertained crowds at events including the Newstead Folk Festival and the National Folk Festival, where he placed second in last year’s Folk Alliance awards. Live at the Stage is a cabaret-style show and part of Wyndham council’s Music in our City program, which aims to make live performances more accessible.
‘‘But you don’t have to be an art or music lover to come along,’’ she said. ‘‘Live at the Stage is a great opportunity for people to experience exceptional works by a local artist from a di erent viewpoint, and to be involved in something di erent and unique.”
Live at the Stage is on May 30. Tickets cost $20. For more details, phone 8734 6000.
(Joe Mastroianni)
(Photographs by Damjan Janevski)
FROM THE ARCHIVES
40 years ago
May 22, 1974
e Werribee subdivision of the electorate of Lalor voted solidly to return Dr Jim CairnstoCanberraonSaturday.DrCairns polled 6778 votes to 5215 votes gained by Werribee solicitor Frank Purcell in the federal election. Werribee subdivision takes in the area from Little River to Laverton.
30 years ago
May, 24, 1984
A more co-ordinated strategy for the development of the western suburbs is being sought by the Victorian Chamber of Manufacturers, director Brian Powell said last week. Mr Powell said a VCM submission calling for this approach would be presented to the next meeting of the state government’s manufacturing advisory council.
20 years ago
May 18, 1994
Werribee will become home for up to 2000 employees of the new $240 million Toyota plant at Altona over the next two years.
eDefenceHousingAuthorityhasjoined forces with Toyota to help workers relocate from Toyota’s Dandenong plant and buy houses in Werribee, Laverton, Hoppers Crossing or Altona.
10 years ago
May 19. 2004
Worried parents are keeping Werribee Secondary College students at home for fear their children might be exposed to asbestosa erfireguttedtheschool’strades wing last ursday night. e fire caused about $2 million damage and destroyed students’ books, uniforms and revision work on the eve of mid-year exams.
SATURDAY
Right hops make true brew
Ben omas ruminates on how good
When it comes to beer, there are hops and there are hops. It’s fair to say you’d have to be quite the beer bo n to be able to pick the di erence between Galaxy and Nelson Sauvin or your Pride of Ringwood in a beer, but, boy, do hops make a di erence to a beer’s character.
“Di erent hops bring di erent characters to beer,” says Cascade’s head brewer, Mike Unsworth. “Some are good at imparting bitterness and others contribute more to the avour and aroma of a beer. It’s all to do with the chemical components that are contained within the hops, particularly in the glands.”
Hops are added at di erent stages of the brewing process – for bittering at the start and for avour and aroma towards the end – and o en di erent hops are chosen for the characters they bring.
“In hops that are good for bittering, you have what are known as alpha acids, and when they’reboileduptheyimpartalotofbitterness,” Unsworth says.
“What actually happens is that during the boil [of the brew] the acids change. e heat that’s imparted in the brew makes them more bitter. It’s a process known as isomerisation, where the acids become a more bitter compound.”
Bittering hops are added at the start of the boil as heat and time are needed to achieve maximum bitterness.
“On the other hand, contained within some hops are more volatile components and they contribute to avour and aroma,” Unsworth says. “ ese are things that boil o . Add them too early and you end up blowing most of their characters out the chimney.”
While Foster’s may be Australia’s bestknown contribution to the world of beer, our development of a couple of hop varieties –
MIKE UNSWORTH
‘‘ Pride of Ringwood is probably the best truly bitter hop ’’ – Mike Unsworth
Pride of Ringwood and Galaxy – may be our most important.
“ e Pride of Ringwood hop that was developed in the 1950s is probably the best truly bitter hop and is used worldwide,”
Unsworth says.
He says Cascade rst used Galaxy hops in its
seasonal First Harvest, a beer that uses fresh hops, picked on the day the brew starts.
Cascade works with Hop Products Australia – which has been farming hops in Tasmania for more than 150 years – on its First Harvest beer as a testing ground for new hop varieties.
“ e Galaxy hop was rst used in First Harvest in 2006, when it was an experimental hop,” Unsworth says.
“We use all experimental hops in First Harvest. We had a good result with Galaxy and it has gone on to become a major commercial variety.
‘‘We now use Galaxy in a couple of beers.
And it’s quite an unusual hop; it’s quite bitter, but it’s also got a strong aroma.”
Cascade releases its 2014 First Harvest this week, and I was on hand for the picking of this year’s three experimental hops: Brooker for bittering, Argyle for avour and the aromatic Macquarie.
Later that day, I added the Argyle hops to the avourstageofthe20,000-litre,limited-edition First Harvest brew.
Who knows, one of those new hops may go on to be the next big thing in beer.
Ben omas travelled to Tasmania as a guestofCascade.
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, 12 Howes Street, Airport West, or email to communitycalendar@starweekly.com.au. Deadline for copy and announcements is noon Tuesday.
Home And Away actor speaks
Screen Actors Werribee will host an information day on Saturday with Paul O’Brien, who has appeared in shows such as Home And Away and Neighbours. The day will help aspiring actors to hone their skills. From 9.30am-5.30pm.
Ԃ 8742 3626 or wyndham@admin. screenactors.com.au
Cancer support
The Werribee and Districts Cancer Support Group is a positive, supportive group for people with cancer and their carers, families and friends. The group meets on the third Tuesday of every month in Werribee from 7pm.
Ԃ 0418 587 086 or smarbie@bigpond.com
Computer tutors for seniors
Werribee Men’s Shed is looking for volunteer trainers to teach seniors how to use computers. The introductory course, will cover basic Windows, Word, email and internet use. Tutors need to be available for a half a day every week.
Ԃ james@werribeemensshed.org.au or 8742 6448
Barefoot bowls
Give barefoot bowls a go at the Werribee Bowls Club. Social games are held on Wednesdays and Saturdays. The club offers social or full memberships.
Ԃ 9741 3229 or werribeebowls@hotmail.com
Charity tennis match
Show your support for cancer research by taking part in Werribee Central Tennis Club’s annual women’s ‘‘cuppa for cancer’’ round robin event. The doubles competition, for players of all abilities, is on May 22 from 9.30am at the club’s Shaws Road courts. Entry: $5. Ԃ 0438 329 435
Craft group
Wyndham Patchwork meets at Manor Lakes Community Centre on the second Saturday of each month from 11.30am-3.30pm.
A ‘‘sit and sew’’ day is held on the fourth Saturday of the month from 9.30am-3.30pm. Cost: $4.
Ԃ 9748 6887
Free community workouts
The Grange Community Centre in Hoppers Crossing is hosting free community fit clubs. The sessions are designed to help move participants towards healthier futures. Sessions are held on Monday and Tuesday evenings from 6.30pm.
Ԃ 0402 729 930
WERRIBEE
WIN THIS
This year’s Melbourne International Horse Trials will be held on the Queen’s Birthday weekend (June 6-9) in the stunning surrounds of Werribee Park. Horses and riders will compete for national and international representation, showcasing the best in Australian horsemanship and providing a spectacle for all ages. The Star Weekly is giving away a family pass (two adults and two children) for Sunday, June 8, valued at $90.
To enter, visit winthisnow.com.au and follow the prompts. Entries close on Sunday at 11.59pm and will be drawn next day at 10am (Melbourne local time) at the offices of MMP Group, 214 Park Street, South Melbourne, VIC 3205. Winners will be notified in writing and their names published at winthisnow. com.au. Terms and conditions are available at this site.
* Some of Melbourne’s
Agent’s choice
+ 77 Wattle Avenue, Werribee
New Homes & Land
+ Saltwater Coast design ideas
422
If you’re looking to get your foot in the door of a modern house in a quiet Point Cook neighbourhood, look no further.
It’s easy to picture a young family growing up in this four-bedroom, two-bathroom house which is across the road from parklands and within five minutes’ drive of the town centre.
This house is beautifully presented and has an air of relaxed, modern comfort. It’s anchored by dark-grey floor tiles and complemented by white decor, and there’s a sense of space and continuity throughout
the house, which has an expansive central living hub where the family can gather and spend that coveted quality time.
At the heart of the house is a sleek kitchen which includes a long Caesarstone island bench, stainless-steel appliances, gas cooktop with rangehood, plenty of storage space and a walk-in pantry.
The kitchen looks out over an open-plan family-meals area, which flows through to a covered courtyard and sizeable back garden which should prove a hub of activity where family and friends can
enjoy a barbecue in the warmer months. The house also features a gorgeous main bedroom with an en suite that has a tiled shower and plenty of light streaming through a large window.
Blinds provide complete privacy as desired.
It is a quality-built residence and features splashes of modern flair from top to bottom.
There are designated lounge and dining areas and three of the bedrooms have built-in wardrobes.
The appealing main bathroom has a bathtub and dark tiles and includes a separate toilet.
Features include a remote-controlled double garage, separate laundry with external access, security door, ducted heating and evaporative cooling.
This house provides serene living while still being close to shops, schools and parklands, and it also has convenient access to freeways.
Hocking Stuart Werribee: 9305 7111 Price: $379,000 - $400,000 Private sale
In sought-after Wattle Grove estate, this elegant Victorian-inspired residence is more than 50 squares and on a 1409-square-metre block. It’s close to the freeway and Werribee CBD, and within walking distance of schools, playgrounds and childcare facilities. High ceilings, feature cornices, ceiling rosettes, blackwood doors and trims, and archways make for a lovely setting. Four bedrooms include two with ’robes and a shared en suite. The main bedroom has courtyard and pool room access, a walk-in wardrobe and en suite with twin basins, spa and separate toilet. The spacious kitchen has ample storage, a walk-in pantry, stainless-steel appliances and dishwasher. The meals area connects to a sunken lounge room (with replace) with views of the north-facing backyard and pergola. A purpose-built pool room has a heated swimming pool. Other features include a ve-car garage, intercom, ducted heating and vacuum, refrigerated cooling, and an alarm system.
Within walking distance of Werribee River, this contemporary residence is the epitome of style and sophistication. With a north-facing aspect that allows plenty of natural light and blossoming gardens, this three-bedroom house features a bright interior and clever layout that caters to both a busy family or downsizers looking to enjoy a low-maintenance lifestyle. There are two separate living areas, including a light- lled lounge and meals-family area that connects to a large pergola area in the backyard. Everyday meals as well as cooking for guests will be a simple task in the kitchen, as it features quality stainless steel appliances and gleaming granite benchtops. The main bedroom has a walk-in wardrobe and en suite. The two further bedrooms are zoned separately for privacy and share a bathroom with separate toilet. Further features include heating, cooling, double garage with drive-through access, and a 2000-litre water tank.
Wyndham City: 9741 9000 Price: $269,000 Private sale
A pretty frontage enhanced by topiary trees gives this residence wonderful street appeal. Set back from the street, the three-bedroom house has an under-cover porch that leads into the bright lounge room. The open-plan layout also includes a family-meals area and large kitchen with walk-in pantry, stainless steel appliances and dishwasher. The main bedroom has a walk-in wardrobe and en suite while the remaining two bedrooms have built-in wardrobes and share a family bathroom with separate toilet. There is also a separate study. From the meals-family area is the paved pergola with lush lawn beyond for the kids and pets to run amok. Ducted heating and evaporative cooling ensure year-round comfort. The property also has a shed and remote-controlled lock-up double garage with drive-through access.
Attractive and well-maintained, this appealing residence is suited to rst-home buyers or a couple with young children as it’s close to schools and shops. The light- lled interior features exposed beams, vaulted ceilings and built-in shelves. The carpeted lounge has a gas wall heater and air-conditioner, and connects to the dining room with cork oors. The kitchen is original and has an upright cooker and breakfast bar with timber nishes. It may require an update but is ready to go as is. The three bedrooms have built-in wardrobes and there’s a bright bathroom with separate toilet. Storage space is not lost on this residence. A double carport has rear access to the backyard, which has two sheds and room for a caravan, boat or trailer. The yard also features a basketball court and at lawn area for the kids to play, and it’s bordered by established gardens.
Harcourts
Hocking Stuart Werribee:
ForSalebyAuctiononThursday5thJune2014 @ 1pm.
Nowthere’s such a thingasBlueChipRealEstatebutwhat’s onofferhere isquite extraordinary! A veryspecialproperty(oneof WattonStreetsfirst)isavailablefor purchaseandboasts a wonderfulsizedallotmentspreadingrightthroughto rear laneaccess(approx300sqm).SweetingJewellersare closingdownand a wonderful opportunitytoinvestorlocateyourbusinessisyoursforthetaking.Theoriginalshop offersexcellentopenspaceandhas a rearworkshopatthebackfollowedby a store roomwhichwasextendedsomeyearsago.Thedwellingoffershotandcoldwater,a separatetoilet,splendidterrazzofloor, sophisticatedalarmsystemandfireproofsteel doorattheexit.Thecurrentshopfittingsmaybeavailableatsettlementdependingon buyers requestsandthetotalallotmentboaststremendousoff streetparking(approx 5 carsinsize)!Besure toenquire quicklyfortheseamazingopportunitiesare veryfew andfarbetween!
Thursday5thJune20141:00pm MELWAYS
WYNDHAM VALE11BrumbyStreet
WONDERFUL FAMILYHOME.
Idealforowneroccupiersorinvestorsalike.Here is a homethefamilywillfallinlovewithdesignedfor contemporaryliving.Comprisingneutraldecor,4 fittedbedrooms,masterwithensuite & walkin robe. Thelargefamily roomadjoins a modern hostesskitchen & mealsareawhichlooksoutoverthefully landscapedbackyard.Appointmentsincludedoublegarage,ductedheating & splitsystemcooling.This is a wonderfulopportunitytosecurea greatproperty!!!
WERRIBEE 97318888 21 WattonStreet
WYNDHAM VALE5Condamine Avenue JUSTMOVEINANDRELAX
Beitforyourfamilyhomeorasaninvestmentthisonehasthelot.With a blendofformal & informalliving areasthisqualityhomedesignedfor a contemporaryfamilylifestyle.Presenting a flowingfloorplanwith 3 fittedbedrooms,includingmasterwithensuite & walkin robe.Thefamily roomleadsouttothelarge deckedpergolaentertainmentarea & generousbackyard where thekidshaveplentyof roomtoplay Complimentingthiswonderfulhomeare suchfeaturesasqualityfloorboardsthroughoutlivingzones, double remotegarage & ductedheating & cooling.Allseton a sizeableallotmentof589m2(approx) & withinwalkingdistancetoschools,shoppingcentres & thesoontobecompletedWyndham Valetrain station.Thishomeis ready & waitingforitsnewowner
Nestledin a quietcourtlocation,thismagnificentfamilyhomeoozeswith qualityandlifestyleliving.Containing a beautifulblendofbothformal andinformallivingthe 3 livingzonesofferspaceforthewholefamily The largegranitekitchenboasts900mmuprightcooking,walkinpantryand looksoutthroughthe 2 setsofFrenchdoorslafingyoutotheoutdoor entertainmentareaandingroundpool.
258m Short Walk To The Train Station & Local Shops!!
This recently updated home is within walking distance to kindergartens, schools, local shops, Princes Freeway and the Train Station. Accommodating the whole family featuring 3 bedrooms with BIR’s, new tiled bathroom, separate toilet, 3 car carport and 1 car garage, huge workshop shed, plenty of storage space, heating, and air conditioning a must see for the buyer looking for convenience and comfort.Great size lounge room and meals area.
Auction View www.harcourts.com.au/VWC4634
Michelle Chick & Nicole Occhibove
In Brief the home comprises of 4 generous bedrooms, master with ensuite, all with bir, open and light filled formal living, having a period open fireplace and dining area, flowing onto a further separate living opening to the meals area and modern kitchen with central island, and 900mm oven, a family bathroom.To the grounds is the long driveway, and manicured gardens, leading onto the rear garden with large pergola, an oversized double garage, with internal access to a second generous shed/workshop with room for a further 2 large vehicles.
Auction Saturday 31st May 11AM on site
It’s Now Priced To Sell!! Owner Ready To Accept An Offer.
Bellbridge Stunner On A Huge Block.
This expansive brick home offers the lifestyle you have always wanted. Situated in Hoppers Crossing on a magnificently sized block of land of approximately 6297m² (1.5 acres). Located within walking distance to local schools, public transport and parkland It has been on the market with other agents and they overpriced this property, now the owner wants this property sold. This is a must too inspect with too many features to list.
For Sale Offers Over $980,000 View www.harcourts.com.au/VWC4548 33 3
Michelle Chick & Nicole Occhibove M 0416 007 949 M 0438 578 275 E michelle.chick@harcourts.com.au E nicole.o@harcourts.com.au
Harcourts Wyndham City REDUCED
Comprising of 3 generous bedrooms, master bedroom has a walk in robe large enough to loose yourself in the remaining 2 bedrooms have bir, a bathroom with the wow factor benefitting from double shower enclosure and heads, a spa bath, the kitchen is genuine stunner and any budding chef would be proud to cook in this area, boasting an 900mm freestanding stainless steel oven, plenty of bench space, and all overlooking the entertaining area outside. There is ducted h & c for all year round comfort, and a security alarm system.
For Sale Price by Negotiation $375,000 - $395,000 View www.harcourts.com.au/VWC4493
Jay Radbourne P 03 9741 9000 M 0422 280 465 E jay.radbourne@harcourts.com.au
Harcourts Wyndham City
AUCTION
Little Slice Of Paradise.
Werribee South 805 Duncans Road
Hoppers Crossing 344 Derrimut Road
Hoppers Crossing 45 Matlock Street
Harcourts Wyndham City 175A Watton Street Werribee
5 1 Grand Design On Wattle Avenue
Immerse yourself in the prestige of the Wattle Grove Estate in a luxurious 50+ sq. Victorian styled, custom built and designed home. Set amongst some of the best Victoria has to offer. This home is minutes from the freeway, Werribee CBD, 1.2klm from the train station and within walking distance to schools, playgrounds and childcare facilities. As you wander to the front entrance your senses stir as you catch the fragrance of the established rose lined, paved path. Upon entry you step in, and back into a time of romance.
For Sale Price by Negotiation over $950,000 View www.harcourts.com.au/VWC4588
Michelle Chick & Nicole Occhibove M 0416 007 949 M 0438 578 275
Comprising of 3 large bedrooms,
Comprising of 4 over sized bedrooms, three with bir, master with large ensuite, central bathroom and separate downstairs powder room, formal lounge and dining with gas fire place, open meals area alongside another living room, and an upstairs retreat for the kids.Huge open plan kitchen with stainless steel appliances, down lights, ducted vac, heating and cooling. Head outside and continue to be amazed by the spa and gardens alongside the alfresco area. With 34squares (approx) over a generous 643m2 allotment (approx).
For Sale Price by Negotiation $630,000 - $648,000 View www.harcourts.com.au/VWC4489
Michelle Chick & Nicole Occhibove M 0416 007 949 M 0438 578 275
Werribee 77 Wattle Ave
42 2
Stylish Home In Prized Location South Side Of Werribee
Werribee 15 Little John Court
Shaws
Werribee 10 Carly Terrace
Harcourts Wyndham City
175A Watton Street Werribee
Wyndham Vale 8 Carrington Close
Conveniently Located And Central To Everything
- Comprising of 3 good size bedrooms all with BIR’s, central bathroom that has a separate toilet.- The substantial well covered pergola/ carport which will fit 3 cars is an area where you can entertain or unwind. With plenty of storage for a boat, caravan or trailer and load of storage space.- Other inclusions include alarm, wall heater and split system to keep the home comfortable all year round.- Within walking distance to kindergartens, schools, and local shops.
For Sale $279,000 View www.harcourts.com.au/VWC4626 31 3
Michelle Chick & Nicole Occhibove M 0416 007 949 M 0438 578 275 E michelle.chick@harcourts.com.au E nicole.o@harcourts.com.au
Harcourts Wyndham City
Nicole Occhibove M 0438 578 275 E nicole.o@harcourts.com.au
Harcourts
Werribee
ypa.com.au
The Pinnacle Of Opulent Federation Family Sized Luxury
Presenting one of the finest homes to be built in the City of Wyndham that is now up for your taking! Boasting some sixty-nine squares (approx) of pure indulgence, the detail and appointments will
rival most luxury resorts that you may ever hope to holiday within, yet this could be your next home!
Inspired by federation detail, the sole owners have selected only the finest materials on offer to complete this masterpiece. Lavished with battened Tasmanian solid oak flooring throughout, the custom kitchen is of solid Jarrah construction and entails all Smeg appliances, walk-in pantry and has been finished with granite bench tops. An open meals and informal living adjoin while also featuring a granite topped wet bar. Comprising four bathrooms in total, with two bedrooms featuring a private ensuite. Most bedrooms offer walk-in robes, while there is also an enclosable large theatre room and separate upstairs living retreat. Zoned ducted heating and refrigerated cooling will keep you comfortable all year round. As to be expected there are many period features throughout to replicate the federation standings and detail.
An entertainer’s paradise waits for all occasions all year round with the undercover pergola area complete with gas BBQ yet handy to the smart second kitchen contained within the triple oversized garage. A huge synthetic deck with a sail shade leads to the impressive indoor pool house complete with a huge games room, sauna and bathroom.
Set in the premier St James Wood Estate of Tarneit within a short stroll to Westbourne Grammar, Wyndham Village Shopping Centre and many adjacent parklands and walking tracks. This is the complete lifestyle package that most families could only dream of! You may expect to have friends and family lining up to holiday here with such an extensive list of executive luxury appointments! It just does not get any better than this!
9741 7777
191 Watton Street, Werribee
Tarneit 14 David John Drive
Little River 70 Colin Crescent
A Dream Lifestyle On 12.6 Hectares - Stunning ‘You Yangs’ Views!
A whopping 31.1 acres of beautiful land in an incredible location with breathtaking views, only 5 minutes to the You Yang’s regional park, approx 15 minutes to Watton Street cafés, restaurants, shops and all amenities, 30 minutes to Geelong CBD/Eastern beach and 45 minutes to the Melbourne CBD. Presenting a solid 4 bedroom home, master with ensuite, stunning spa bathroom, massive open plan formal and informal living zones which comprises a formal lounge with a Coonara, massive rumpus room and another large living area/teenagers 4th bedroom or retreat. Appointments include ducted heating, reverse cycle split system air conditioner, dishwasher, 2 massive water tanks equalling 100,000L, pergola area, a powered workshop to house your toys/cars and enough undercover space to accommodate 9-10 cars. Just across from the property a self-contained outhouse for the elderly parents or teenagers to have their own private getaway. Comprising 3 bedrooms, modern kitchen, central bathroom, open living area, split system heating and cooling, and a car space with workshop/shed area. What an opportunity to secure this peaceful lifestyle in a central location to everything… Are you looking for a farm for the whole family, the kids to run wild or to house your animals? Or you’re own peaceful getaway? Or a future dream development site in the years to come (STCA)? Contact our office to find out more and don’t miss this unbelievable opportunity!
Residence With A
Werribee 47 Edgar Street
A Great Place To Call Home
It’s time to sit back, relax and unwind in this beautiful 3 bedroom home. Offering an open plan design with flowing living areas and a wonderful outlook of large trees and established gardens. The lounge leads on to the family/meals area and large west facing kitchen.
Extremely well maintained and with a host of extras such as gas heating, split system cooling, timber floating floors and an extremely large ensuite with corner spa.
Located within walking distance to schools, local bus stop and shops, what else could you ask for?
1 Margaret Street
Reminiscence Of A Yesteryear - Inspiring Character & Charm
WOW factor from the moment you enter this outstanding weatherboard home. With its originality presenting soaring 10ft ceilings, terracotta tiles, ceiling rosettes, decorative cornicing, elegant light fittings & the list goes on. Three generous BRs, central bathroom with a lovely porcelain pedestal sink, gorgeous claw-foot bath & a lovely sun drenched lounge leading through to a large meals/family area with stunning French doors taking you out to a good sized low maintenance backyard. Executive appointments include sensational floating
Bamboo floor boards, breathtaking kitchen with abundance of cupboard space, breakfast bar area, stone bench tops, mosaic tiles complimenting your 900mm upright stove, dishwasher & a reverse cycle heating/cooling split system. A perfect location, Werribee CBD, cafés, shops, Werribee train station all just a few minutes’walk from this character filled property. Auction Sat 14th June at 12noon (Unless sold prior)
Price Range Contact Agent
Sat 11.30-12noon
Werribee 49 Iluka Drive
Crossing 1 Radford Court 4 2 2 4
You Will Be Amazed With What’s On Offer - All On 1346m2!
This sensational property in the lovely Derrimut Heath Estate is sure to impress with the long list of appointments on offer. Presenting 4 fitted bedrooms, master with ensuite, formal lounge and dining, spacious tiled meals area, enormous outdoor entertaining area, 4-car powered garage with rear access and large side access for a caravan, boat and trailer. Inside the home, gas heating, air conditioner, security shutters, gas cooking, and outdoors a gigantic solar heated inground pool with granite paving surrounding, inground heated spa, your own private rock-heated sauna, mature landscaped gardens and tonnes of space for whatever the family desires. A quiet court location yet nearby to shopping, schools, child care and public transport, you need to inspect this beautiful establishment to appreciate what’s on offer!
Hoppers Crossing 34 Johnson Avenue 2 3 2 4
Resort Style Family Living In Cambridge
This wonderful family home on 780m2 approx, with side and a simple stroll to the Werribee Plaza retail hub! Comprising 4 bedrooms, master with walk-in robes and ensuite, formal lounge and dining, theatre room, feature packed Tasmanian Oak timber kitchen adjoining an informal meals room. Complete with ducted heating and cooling, and 1.5Kw solar energy system. Outdoors, a large covered pergola overlooking the inground heated pool, perfect for those hot days.
Private Sale Contact Agent
Sat 11.30-12noon
ID required
Hoppers Crossing 40 Pannam Drive
Extraordinary Location & Tonnes Of Space!
Seton740m2 approxis this stunning property presenting 3 fitted bedrooms, central bathroom, 2 toilets, spacious lounge leading through to a separate meals area and modern kitchen, family/meals area, enclosed entertainment area, double garage/teenagers retreat or granny flat and a double carport/pergola. Includes gas heating, air conditioner, shed, matured landscaped gardens and a generous backyard. Positioned within walking distance to all local amenities. Private Sale $380,000 - $405,000
Sat 11-11.30am Photo ID required
Vercher 0421 734
Hoppers
The Perfect Start
Perfectly located in the heart of Manor Lakes is this unique opportunity. Only 5 years young this beautiful residence entails 4 BRs, master with FES & WIR, while the remaining BRs are fitted with BIRs. With 2 separate living areas, a hostess kitchen overlooking the meals area & opening out to an informal living area. Outside presents an abundance of space for entertainment & includes side access & remote double garage with internal access. Currently tenanted periodically at $315pw, this home is close to all local amenities.
Dona Homes Double Brick Splendour
Modern Living In A Superb Location
Located in a central Tarneit location is this beautiful family residence presenting you with 4 BRs plus an extra study, a formal lounge & a sep study area with access to the backyard. Comprising a master BR with a FES & WIR while the remaining BRs are equipped with BIRs, kitchen with all the luxuries, a 2nd informal living zone opens out to the alfresco area where the backyard has no compromise on space. Includes heating, cooling, intercom, alarm & double remote garage. Currently leased periodically at $330pw.
Stunning Home In A Gem Location!
Sat 10.45-11.15am
ID required
This wonderfully presented double brick home comprises 3 BRs with BIRs & the master offering ensuite. An open plan design reveals a solid timber kitchen adjoining a large separate meals, formal lounge & dining zones while updated gas heating & an A/C keep thing happy all year round. For the cars there is a double garage & you can entertain from the covered pergola within the large backyard. Close to public transport & shopping, adjacent to established parklands, a small lake & Lollypop Creek. Private Sale $290,000 - $315,000
A fantastic low maintenance lifestyle in a quiet court location set amongst house proud owners & presenting spacious fitted BRs, master with WIR & ensuite, great sized lounge, a tiled family meals area overlooking the hostess kitchen, central bathroom & a no maintenance backyard with enough room for your outdoor setting & BBQ. Features 8’6 ceilings, decorative cornicing, 900mm stainless upright cooker, ducted heating, split system A/C, alarm, remote garage with internal access & a garden shed.
HugeRumpus,630m2Block Nestledin a quietcourtlocationwithinthe everpopularBellbridgeEstatethishome isseton a 630m2blockofland.Offering 4 goodsizedbedrooms, 2 bathrooms (masterwithensuiteand WalkinRobes. Thelivingareasare wellcateredfor with a spaciousformalloungesituated tothefrontofthehome, a familymeals
Anentertaininggardencourtyard is providedbehindtheoversizedgarage with rearaccessthrough rollerdoor Locatedclosetoschools,transport & shoppingcentresthishomeis a mustto
A wellestablished residencefittedwith alltheextrasforanenjoyablefamily lifestyle - comprisingof 3 spacious bedroomsplus a fourthorstudy/Office, allhave robes - masterhaswalkinplus ensuite. A spaciousformallounge,timber kitchenwithamplecupboard space andbenchtopsand a wellappointed
This 3 bedroomhomehas a hugerumpus roomorofficeforanybodywantingtowork fromhome.Spaciouslounge room &a great family / meals roomoff thetimberkitchen. Thepropertycomescompletewithducked heating,airconditioner, dishwasherandit alsopresentsitselfbeautifully Grassedentertainingarea,pergolaetc
2. ThisthreebedroomBV residence includes built in robes two bedrooms, roller shutters, window furnishings and light fittings.Electrichotplates and wall oven, gas wall furnaceandHWS.
Also includes:
•Carport
•GasHotWater
•Gaswallheater
•ElectricHotPlates & Oven
•Air-conditioning
•Cementtiledroof
•Window furnishings
•Lightfittings
As a first home buyer’s opportunity this is too good to miss!
So call us now for an inspection!
Comprising:
•Approximately1kmWestofDonnybrook Rail Station
l OverlookingLollipopCreekandparklands l Formalandinformallivingzones l Fullyappointedkitchenandtiledmealsarea
Ductedheatingandcooling
Largeundercoveroutdoorarea
l 2 bedroomunitwithrarecathedralceilings
triwest.com.au
#721878
m: 0435878255
l Renovatedhomeonsouthsideoftown
l Fullensuitewithcornerspaandwalkinrobe
l Stunningtimberfloorswithneutralinterior
l Twoseparatelivingzones
l Gascentralheatingandairconditioning
l Coveredoutdoorlivingareaforentertaining
l SyntheticlawnandAsianinspiredlandscaping
l Closetoshops,restaurantsandfreewayaccess
Open: Saturday11.00am - 11.30am
LynneSteinhauer
m: 0438883598
o: 97415900 e: sales@triwest.com.au
Greatfirsthomeorinvestment l Separatelounge,spaciouskitchen/mealsarea l Fantasticsizedbackyardandestablishedgardens l Splitsystemheatingandcoolingthroughout
l Rollershuttersandrollerdoortocarport
l Closetoschools,shopsandsportingfacilities WyndhamVale
Open: Saturday12.00pm - 12.30pm
Address: 13LantanaAvenue
triwest.com.au
#718497
PaulNuske
m: 0414717458
o: 97415900
e: paul@triwest.com.au
l Suitfirsttimebuyers,investorsandrenovators
l Inoriginalconditionwithscopetoaddvalue
l Mainlivingareawithgaslogfireandairconditioner
l Wellequippedkitchenwithadjoiningmealsarea
l Neat & tidysecurebackyard,newboundaryfencing l MinuteswalktoHeathdaleCCandWerribeePlaza HoppersCrossing
Carlisle Hodes is celebratihg 10 years of buildihg quality hodes across Melbourhe. To start 2014, we have added eveh dore value to our ihdustry leadihg list of ihclusiohs across our full rahge of award wihhihg hodes.
NEW HOMES AND LAND – Porter Davis
Buyers looking to build but lacking design ideas will nd plenty at Porter Davis’ new display centre at Saltwater Coast.
Three designs are on show: the Dunedin, Rochford and Brookwater.
Porter Davis director Paul Wolff said each design features innovative functionality, with the Brookwater providing the builder’s rst dual main bedroom oor plan.
“Within our most popular house designs, we now have options for an en suite to all
bedrooms, to suit the trend of children staying at home longer or to cater to live-in grandparents,” Mr Wolff said.
“We have added the Brookwater’s dual master retreat oor plan to our portfolio so families have more designer lifestyle choices, allowing them to co-exist peacefully.”
Mr Wolff said many Porter Davis designs included multiple living spaces and study nooks for growing families, providing a
balance between shared living zones and independent hideaways.
“The Dunedin also has the option of a split-level design giving a dedicated parents’ retreat away from the living zones and children’s bedrooms. The design also adds more architectural street appeal,” he said.
The three display houses have the builder’s ‘World of Style’ interiors, with the New York, Legian Bali and Cape Cod
themes available. The Cape Cod style gives houses a coastal yet vintage nautical look, with soft greys, rich charcoals and navy highlights.
“Our new Saltwater Coast display centre has a diverse range of oor plans and globally inspired style on show, making it a great place to start research for a new house,” Mr Wolff said.
For more details phone 1800 767 837 or visit www.porterdavis.com.au.
HOMES AND LAND – Forsyth Park
First-home buyers on a tight budget will be pleased to know they can get a house and land package in Truganina for less than $300,000.
Forsyth Park estate, developed by ISPT, has teamed up with builder Nostra Homes to create Otto, a house with all the necessities.
Houses are available as single or double storey, with three or four bedrooms and two bathrooms. Floor coverings, window furnishings, front and back landscaping, a driveway and fences are also included. The three-bedroom Otto designs start from
$299,900 and the four-bedroom designs start from $454,000.
The properties are within walking distance of the estate’s $1 million park –which has three playgrounds, bike paths and a basketball half-court – a future medical centre and childcare.
Nostra Homes director Huseyin Hamit said the builder’s focus was to deliver maximum value at an affordable price.
“Our Otto designs at Forsyth Park allow home owners to pick up the keys to a new house and walk straight in once completed,” he said.
ISPT senior development manager Sean Hogan said the properties available at Forsyth Park provided a great location and lifestyle.
“Now, more than ever, consumers are driven by convenience; they are searching for a house that’s functional and comes with everything they need, including easy access to established services and transport that doesn’t cost the earth,” Mr Hogan said. “They aren’t necessarily looking for a huge block of land or a gigantic house, but rather, something that’s cleverly designed and low-maintenance.”
Mr Hogan said for many western suburbs residents, there had never been a better time to enter the property market. For more details on house and land packages at Forsyth Park, contact the sales team, drop into the on-site office or visit www.forsythpark.com.au.
NEW
In the main street of Werribee, Onesixteen Watton is a residential and retail project that’s part of Wyndham’s urban development plan.
The project, the rst of its kind in the area’s central business district, consists of 21 two-bedroom apartments with balconies and living spaces, and ve three-bedroom apartments on the penthouse oor.
The project also has 11 street-level retail spaces which are available to lease.
“Onesixteen is an exciting investment in the Werribee community that hasn’t been seen before, providing premium residential real estate and retail tenancy options to
one of the state’s fastest-growing areas,” says Rob Westwood, managing director of First National Westwood, which is handling project sales.
The developer, Madok Group, has started construction. Power-supply works to the project site were completed after the developer worked in consultation with the Wyndham council and Powercor.
Award-winning builders Ducon Constructions have been appointed as head contractor.
Build time is expected to be about 12 months.
“Ducon are renowned for delivering a
quality product within timeframes and on budget,” Mr Westwood said.
Residential apartments are still available, from two-bedroom with one car park from $375,000, right up to a three-bedroom river-facing penthouse apartment with two car parks and views of mature trees, bird life and riverside walking tracks for $600,000.
The apartments have quality xtures and nishes, river-facing or Watton Street views, large balcony living spaces, secure basement car parking, allocated car spaces, storage cages on tiles, Blanco appliances, split systems, secure lift and security tag
entry. Mr Westwood said the development’s location was equally as impressive; it is within minutes of the railway station, the cultural centre is across the road, while tennis courts, bowls greens, a swimming complex and footy eld are less than 500 metres away.
Stamp duty savings are available at this early stage of construction and are a good incentive for rst-home buyers and investors.
For further information about Onesixteen Watton residential apartments or retail leasing opportunities, visit www.onesixteen. com.au.
NEW HOMES AND LAND – Madok Group
PUMP REPAIRS
City West Wmter progrmm wficf mims to use underground stormge to supply recycled wmter to tfe Western suburbs of Melbourne.
City West Wmter plmns to integrmte tfe MAR scfeme witf tfe West Werribee Duml Wmter Supply Project, wficf is currently being implemented to supply recycled wmter to new residentiml estmtes in Werribee mnd Wyndfmm Vmle for non-potmble uses. Tfe scfeme is being funded by tfe Austrmlimn Government’s Wmter for tfe Future initimtive tfrougf tfe Nmtionml Urbmn Wmter Desmlinmtion Plmn.
As tfe delegmted decision mmker Soutfern Rurml Wmter is committed
2 BEDROOM UNITS
3/9 Pagnoccolo St, W’Bee$200pw 2/15 High St, W’Bee$270pw 1/15 High St, W’Bee$270pw
We are proud of our experienced, caring and highly qualified staff. The centre follows the ‘Early Years Leaning Framework’ and provides a great indoor and outdoor environment for children
7 Greens Rd, W’bee$260pw 25 Woodville Park Dr, H’Xing$330pw
7GreensRd,W’bee $260pw 16ChapmanDr,W’Vale $315pw More Properties Urgently Wanted!
EganClose,Werribee3BR
SilvereyeCrescent,Werribee3BR
TiberClose,Werribee3BR
RosellaAvenue,Werribee4BR
ClearwaterRiseParade,Tarneit4BR
VirgiliaDrive,HoppersCrossing 3BR$290pw ChurchillCourt,HoppersCrossing 3BR$300pw HeathsRoad,Werribee 4BR$320pw MossfielDrive,HoppersCrossing5BR$360pw More Rental properties wanted. List
“Red and yellow and pink and green, purple and orange and blue,” begins the favourite children’s song I Can Sing a Rainbow – which just about perfectly describes the experience of driving down the Great Alpine Road towards Bright in the state’s north-east. e changing foliage at this time of year is so rich and colourful you’ll feel like someone’s slapped an Instagram lter across your eyeballs.
Bright will lure you in with its beauty, but you’ll fall in love with the passion of the people. Add the quality of what’s on o er and you may never want to leave.
e region is hosting the High Country Harvest festival this month, with an array of activities to ll your belly and warm your heart. From wining and dining to the great outdoors, there’s something to appeal to everyone and make the 3½-hour drive from the city worth your while. High Country Harvest, May 16-25 www.highcountryharvest.com.au
From bean to bar – that’s the promise of Bright Chocolate. Opened by husband-and-wife team Simeon and Shannon Crawley late last year, the charming chocolate factory has survived its rst Easter and is progressing in leaps and bounds.
Headinforchocolatetastings,hotchocolates, and learn the process from chocolate maker Simeon, including sort, roast, crack, winnow, re ne, conche, temper and mould – all on-site.
18 Riverside Avenue, Bright 5755 2266
www.simonesbright.com.au
There is more than meets the eye to
chef Patrizia Simone. The best way to discover it is by venturing out on her autumn harvest forage. Stroll through the pines, foraging for slippery jack and pine mushrooms before heading back to her home kitchen and putting them to good use.
SPORT
Club hails tigerish star
Werribee gave young star Sam Wormald the bestpossiblepresentforplayinghis100thgame in the yellow and black on Saturday.
A 67-point thrashing of Sandringham continued the Tigers’ strong start to its VFL season, a flyer contributed to strongly by the talented half-forward.
e Tigers were dominant from the opening bounce, kicking eight goals in the first quarter to build a 46-point lead.
Although the Zebras were able to fight back in the second term, Werribee still went into the half-time break with a 35-point advantage.
e Tigers produced some great footy a er the break to pull away.
A six-goal-to-zero third term put an exclamation point on Werribee’s dominance, sealing the 18.18 (126) to 8.11 (59) win.
But for the Tigers, the victory was about more than just the four points. e milestone game was also a motivator and triumph for the Tigers and their young star.
A er serving his TAC Cup football apprenticeship with the Geelong Falcons, Wormald signed with Werribee for the 2006 season. Tigers chief executive Mark Penaluna remembers being shocked that the now100-gamer wasn’t picked up by an AFL club in the 2005 dra .
“We were surprised that he wasn’t at least rookie-listed at the end of 2005 a er being captain of our TAC Cup partner, the Geelong Falcons,” Penaluna said.
“Sam was rightfully disappointed in not being selected, but a er a meeting with Sam and his wonderful parents, John and Lyn, we were able to secure his services.”
Wormald has been a stand-out for Werribee throughout the past eight seasons and has played in most of the club’s biggest wins.
e 26-year-old was named among the Tigers’ best players in his milestone game.
Looking back on his career, Wormald said there had been plenty of highlights.
“Playingmyfirstgameisalwaysmemorable,” he said. “We got the win and I was able to snag a goal with my first kick. e opportunity to play in so many finals series is also a highlight of mine. It’s what you play all year for, but to get yourself in that position and to come agonisingly close on a couple of occasions hurts also.”
Werribee will look to continue its good run when it takes on Richmond at Avalon Airport Oval this Saturday.
Error-prone Metro pays
Vic Country kicked five goals in the final term to run over the top of Vic Metro in Sunday’s opening game of the under-18 national football championships at Trevor Barker Oval.
Momentum swung freely, but Country was cleaner with the ball in its 14.5 (89) to 11.8 (74) win.
Metro coach David Flood said he would take a lot out of the game despite the loss.
“I’m happy with the game style,” he said. “We had opportunities going inside 50, but they were a bit cleaner with the ball.
“Everybody played their bit for us and no one stood out, but Country did have some stars on the day.”
Country kicked the opening goal, but, once settled, the Metro players applied a lot of pressure in their own front half.
Calder Cannons’ Pete Wright kicked Metro’s first of the game and his teammates kicked another three for the quarter.
e second term started the way the first ended – with Metro controlling play for the opening goal.
Towards the end of the term, Country scored three goals in five minutes to reduce
Ԃ Sport can bring out the best and worst in people. We often hear about the ugly parent syndrome permeating junior competitions and poor spectator behaviour is never far from the headlines. When sport is good it is really good. My nine-year-old is footy mad – wonder where he got that from? Last Saturday he came to our WYN FM Match of the Day at Hoppers Crossing for a visit to watch dad work. Naturally, he wanted to have a kick on the ground between games – and so did a lot of bigger older boys who headed to the same goal square to kick their goal of the year. This had speeding ball in the head, big kid bumps little bloke into the car park, name your disaster written all over it. But that’s not what unfolded. The big boys were kicking their 50-metre torps but they were also mindful of the little redhead kicking his drop punts from 15 metres and even fetched the ball for him. It was only a small thing, but one that said something about a generation often branded as being totally self-absorbed.
Ԃ Werribee Centrals go into the Geelong and District Football League interleague bye weekend sitting in fifth with three wins and three losses. The club will mark its 30th year in the league with a big day on Saturday, June 14, combining its past players day with a heritage theme. The club will wear specially designed jumpers and celebrate the inaugural reserves and seniors premiers of 1984 and the most recent premiership side of 2004. If you have been involved at the club over the years, it would love you to be part of the day. Inquiries on 0408 381 842 or werribeecentralsfc@gmail.com.
Ԃ I wonder if Centrals have invited Victorian Premier Denis Napthine who played a few games while doing his veterinary studies at Werribee. In fact, he played in one of the most famous games in the history of the club. Let’s just say shots were fired – but not at goal, and not with a Sherrin.
the margin to three points going into the main break.
e second half began with Wright kicking his second goal for Metro.
en Country took over, and with cleaner disposal in the forward line, turned the nine-point deficit into a nine-point lead.
Metro hit back with the next goal before kicking two out-of-bounds on the full.
Rory Sheridan-Ferrie took two strong marks in the forward 50 to give the lead back to Metro, which took a seven-point lead into the final quarter.
attermstartedwithsomegooddefensive work by Calder’s Matthew Goodyear, who earned a free kick for a holding-the-ball decision.HisCannonsteammate,PaulA’Hern, finished off the good work to extend the lead to 13 points.From there, Country took control, capitalising on Metro errors in the midfield and defensive half.
Goodyear registered 24 possessions for Metro, while Western Jets’ Jayden Laverde had 22.
Tara Murray
Ԃ Jess Cameron has swapped her green-and-gold Australian cricket top for a Wyndhamvale jumper as she spends the winter playing in the women’s footy league for the Falcons. The Wyndhamvale women are undefeated two rounds into the season. Women’s football is a fast-growing participation sport and it is good to see an avenue being opened up for those who have a passion for the game. Female players, umpires, presidents and club members can only be good for the long-term future of the game.
Any news?Let me know on email kevin@howdypartnersmedia, follow me on Twitter @KevinHillier and check out the Howdy Partners Media website –www.howdypartnersmedia.com.au.
Sam Wormald played his 100th game for Werribee at the weekend. (Supplied)
Western Jet Jayden Laverde takes a strong mark for Vic Metro on Sunday. (Wayne Hawkins)
Kevin Hillier
Manor stripped of points
By Liam Twomey
Manor Lakes is in danger of missing the Western Region Football League division 2 finals a er the result of its round four win against Glen Orden was overturned.
A Storm player received two separate yellow cards during the weekend match, which, under league rules, should see the player sent off for the remainder of the game.
However, the player returned to the field a er his second yellow card.
Manor Lakes went on to win the game by nine points, 8.10 (58) to 7.7 (49).
WRFL chief executive Bob Tregear confirmed the result had been overturned a er a hearing on Monday night.
“Glen Orden had lodged a protest which was referred to the IHC [independent hearing court],” Tregear said.
“ e IHC recommended that, among other things, the game be awarded to Glen Orden based on the fact that, at the IHC hearing, the evidence confirmed that there were 18 players on the ground in the latter stages of the game at least.”
e result has huge implications for the division 2 ladder with Glen Orden to jump from third to second. e club’s record will also improve from 5-1 to 6-0.
Manor Lakes will fall from sixth to seventh.
Glen Orden football manager Dean Comensoli said his club was happy with the outcome.
“We felt as though the rules weren’t adhered to which, in our opinion, affected the result of the game. In terms of the overall standing of the season, it’s massive. It’s going to be pretty tight up the top at the end of the season.” Star Weekly was unable to get comment from Manor Lakes Football Club.
SCOREBOARD FOOTBALL
VFL
BOXHILL 1.3 8.6 10.7 13.11 (89)
RICHMOND 3.3 5.4 6.8 8.12 (60)
GOALS: Box Hill: O’Brien 2 Murphy 2 Cust Iles Webster Collins Ceglar Grimley Litherland Woodward Ross. Richmond: Conca 3 Edwards 2 McBean Banfield Elton. BEST: Box Hill: Ceglar Ross Kennedy AndrewsMirraO’Brien. Richmond: GrimesDeaHelbig Conca Edwards Thomas. At ME Bank Centre.
Young 3 W Skipper 3 J Taylor 2 B Coles M Ryan M Appleby K Traynor A Poland J Viola J Bentley. Albion: J O’Brien 2 B Mesto 2 M Mesto T Finco J Thompson. Best: Hoppers Crossing: W Skipper M Young J Taylor N Weir J Bentley K Traynor. Albion: B Davis T Finco B Mesto T Kelm N Doherty J McPherson.
DEERPARK 4.4 5.7 11.14 15.20 (110)
PTMELB.COLTS 2.1 6.4 9.5 10.10 (70)
Goals: Deer Park: Details unavailable. Port
Melbourne Colts: Details unavailable.
Best: Deer Park: Details unavailable. Port Melbourne
Colts: Details unavailable.
SUNSHINE 3.2 9.7 14.12 16.15 (111)
ALTONA 1.2 4.4 7.7 11.14 (80)
Goals: Sunshine: P Wiggins 5 R Douglas 3 D Haby 3 A Williams M Ellis T Millar J Allan H Andrew. Altona: J Allen 5 B Shiels 2 M Cross O Abou-Zeid K Pickard B Davies. Best: Sunshine: R Douglas P Wiggins J Hilton H Moloney H Andrew D Haby. Altona: W Ward L Ryan J Allen J Robbins R Green B Davies.
WERRIBEEDIST. 1.2 4.7 10.10 19.15 (129)
STALBANS 6.4 9.8 9.10 9.13 (67)
Goals: Werribee Districts: A Panayi 7 B Prismall
3 T Dean 2 R Harrington 2 C Molivas M Turner A
Eade T Crennan B Kolang. St Albans: T Jenkins 3
S Stephens 2 L Baddeley 2 A Henneman R Gashi.
Best: Werribee Districts: A Panayi A Taylor M Dean B Prismall T McCutcheon M Turner. St Albans: T Henderson P Dalinkiewicz D Fitzpatrick T Jenkins M
Bongiovanni J West.
SPOTSWOOD 9.4 16.7 27.15 37.23 (245)
YARRAVILLESE 0.0 3.0 4.0 6.2 (38)
Goals: Spotswood: M Boyd 7 C Elliott 7 J Cloke 4 S Davis 4 W Krithararis 4 N Dumbleton 3 W Langlands
2 D Sablich 2 M Lewis 2 S Myors M Fogarty. Yarraville Seddon Eagles: D Fry 2 D Falzon G Guest
S Miller A Cristofaro. Best: Spotswood: M Boyd S Ross C Elliott T Langlands
S Wood S Myors. Yarraville Seddon Eagles: S Miller N Avery G Guest G Newtown A Cristofaro J Shaw.
DIV 2
ALBANVALE 8.2 10.5 15.7 18.13 (121)
LAVERTONMAG. 1.1 2.3 5.6 6.12 (48) Goals: Albanvale: S Blake 3 A Boyd 3 J Fisher 3 D Azzopardi 2 M Bassi J Di Cicco D Smith D Borg J Sirianni D Bartolo B Cassar. Laverton
Lenehan.
Best: Glenorden: B Stornebrink M Dowdle J Zangari C Scudamore D Laing M Pozzuto. Tarneit: A Borg A Borg J Foord J Watterson C Richards J Trewin. U-18 DIV 1
HOPPERSCROSS.5.3 8.8 10.9 17.15 (117) ALBION 1.1 2.1 3.3 3.3 (21) Goals: Hoppers Crossing: D Strnak 4 D McKenzie 3 J Grubb 2 J Redfern 2 B Houlihan 2 B Williams L Henderson R Kitchen A Bistisi. Albion: J Leach 2 C McPherson. Best: Hoppers Crossing: K Galley J Viojo Z Latham D Strnak M Post A Bistisi. Albion: B Fisher A Korsak C McPherson J Day T Parkinson J Clark. SPOTSWOOD
YARRAVILLESE 0.0 0.0 0.0
Goals: Spotswood: M McLean 5 M Saoud 5 B Williams 2 J Beilby 2 N Aidonis N Ryan H Ali L Greenwood. Yarraville Seddon Eagles: N Tsaloukis. Best: Spotswood: J Carr L Greenwood M McLean M Saoud N Ryan J Beilby. Yarraville Seddon Eagles: J Hahnell R Celano D Catton C Piccolo J Baker M Koroibete. DEERPARK 2.4 3.8
ALTONA 4.2 4.2
(50) Goals: Deer Park: S Ismail 3 S Amarantidis 2 J Hough W McEwan J Knight. Altona: S Aburrow 3 J Kurtis B Chiem L Bourchier M Dean. Best: Deer Park: P Maglogiannis J Schembri S Amarantidis M Cooper S Clohesy J Hough. Altona: M Dean S Aburrow L Allen J Paton H Rafferty J Zammit. GEELONGANDDISTRICT: Inverleigh 17.18 bt Anakie 15.11, East Geelong
Briefs
Netball
City West Falcons enjoyed a night out in the Victorian Netball League last week. Thanks to outstanding shooting trio Kath Knott, Julia Woolley and Alice Teague-Neeld, the Falcons scored an impressive 72 goals, including 40 in the second half, against Geelong Cougars. City West won 72-45, the result keeping the Falcons securely on top of the ladder with a perfect 14-0 record. In round 15, City West will take on eighth-placed Monash University Storm.
Cycling
Round six of the Footscray Cycling Club’s winter road season started with a tough day’s racing at Balliang in the Brisbane Ranges on Saturday. Riders contested the 80-kilometre course in dry and windy conditions. With a strong northerly wind howling, most thought the A-grade riders would put each other into the gutter early and break up, but the bunch was civilised for the first three quarters of the race. Eventual winner Miles DaCosta knew the wind would be a key factor. “I was a mixture of fear and excitement when I saw the conditions,” he said. “There was going to be gutter work and as long as I’m the one putting others in the gutter, I’m OK with that. We stayed together until we turned for home and then I took off. Jason Costin bridged across to me and we pulled some hard turns to build a lead … it wasn’t until we got to the sprint that I got him by half a wheel.” DaCosta took a narrow win from Costin, with Andrew Bonello in third place.
PREMIERLEAGUE:Rd9: Port Melbourne Sharks 1 Hume City 1, Ballarat Red Devils 3 Green Gully 2, Goulburn Valley Suns 1 Bentleigh Greens 1, Oakleigh Cannons 1 Northcote City 1. 20s:Rd9: Port Melbourne Sharks 3 Hume City 0, Ballarat Red Devils 1 Green Gully 1, Goulburn Valley Suns 0 Bentleigh Greens 0, South Melbourne 1 Pascoe Vale 3. PREMIERLEAGUE1:Rd8: Richmond Seniors 1 Whittlesea Ranges 0, Brunswick
Glen Orden captain Chris Scudamore and his Hawks teammates are now 6-0 after a WRFL appeal. (Mark Smith)
Dejan thrives on AIS courts
By Liam Twomey
When it comes to producing basketball stars, Melbourne’swesternsuburbscontinuetoshine.
Hot on the heels of Dante Exum and Rachel Jarry, Dejan Vasiljevic is becoming the next big thing.
e Tarneit resident moved to the Australian Institute of Sport at the start of the year a er a dominant stretch on the basketball court for Victoria and Australia at junior level.
Since moving to Canberra, Vasiljevic has wasted no time adding more silverware to his trophy cabinet.
e 17-year-old was part of the gold medalwinning Victorian team at the 2014 national junior championships in Canberra and was named Victoria’s best junior basketball player for his 2013 season.
Despite being only a few months into his AIS scholarship, Vasiljevic says he already feels an improvement in his game.
“ e rst week to 10 days were really tough,” he said. “My body was sore every day but then I got used to it.
“I’m getting stronger, tter and quicker already. When you play against older men you feel as if you struggle, but then when you’re playing against kids your own age it feels like all the work has paid o .
“I’m spending at least 20 hours a week on the court. at has jumped probably six to eight hours from what I was doing.”
Vasiljevic’searlysessionsattheAIScoincided withthepresenceofExum,whowasinthe nal stages of his training before heading to the US ahead of the NBA dra .
e pair lived less than 25 minutes apart when growing up in Melbourne’s west.
Vasiljevic said he was given some great advice by the projected top 10 dra pick.
“ e rst two weeks I was at the AIS, he [Exum] was working out as well,” Vasiljevic said.
“He was telling the boys like myself what it is like.
“Hesaidthatthese[AIS]arethebestfacilities in the world and that there’s nothing else like it around Australia. He said to make sure we use it.
“I’m very proud of the guy – he deserves everything that’s happening for all the work he has done.”
‘‘ The rst week to 10 days were really tough ’’
- Dejan Vasiljevic
Vasiljevic will y to China this week with the Australian junior side for a series of games against the US, China and Slovenia.
He also has his eyes on a successful tournament with Australia at the under-17 world championships in the United Arab Emirates later this year.
“ at’s de nitely my goal, to make that championship team,” he said.
“You always want to go out there and win. Our priority will be to try and get a medal and, if we can, beat the Americans and get to that gold medal game.”
Favourites ourish
Saturday a ernoon horse racing returned to Werribee racecourse at the weekend.
Punters were treated to an eight-race card, which was dominated by short-priced favourites.
Only Stella’s Choice in race one and Hot Shoe Shu n in the h provided any sort or
respite for the bookmakers. ey crossed the line in rst place in their races at 11-1 and 15-1 respectively.
Werribee Racing Club’s next meeting is on Sunday, June 15. e club will then have a break before the running of the Werribee Cup on ursday, November 20.
With jockey Jamie Mott on board, Distant Dreams took out the eighth race on the card at Werribee on Saturday. (Damjan Janevski)
Lightning in late charge
By Liam Twomey
VU Western Lightning is making a last-gasp sprint to the finals in the Victorian Netball League.
A er being hurt by injuries during the season’s first half, VU has hit back hard in the past three rounds.
Under the guidance of caretaker coaches Robyne Dawson and Pam Strong, the Lightning drew with DC North Blaze before beating Geelong Cougars and Fed Uni Ballarat Pride.
Dawson says it’s been a frantic start in her new role.
“When we took over, we met the girls on Monday at training and then 48 hours later we coached them in the first game,” she said.
“ ey came from behind to draw that one, which was a fantastic effort.”
A er losing several key players to injury, including club captain Brooke ompson, VU also had to replace two members who are representing their home countries.
Fiona emann will be competing for Scotland at the Commonwealth Games, while Sanonu Robertson is trying to help Samoa qualify for the world championships.
e Lightning crew is not expecting any injured members of its squad to return before the end of the season.
“Brooke [ ompson] is such a warrior, she wants to get back,” Dawson said. “But she has a serious finger fracture so we aren’t too hopeful with her.
“We have a few young ones in the division 1 team who are going to be given the opportunity to play.”
Despite being second-last on the ladder a few weeks ago, VU is now one of the competition’s formteams–andjusttwopointsoutsidethetop four.
Withfourweeksuntilfinals,theLightninghas the bonus of not having to play the undefeated City West Falcons again in the home and away season.
Impressed by what she has seen so far, Dawson hopes the winning form continues.
“I want to make finals,” she said. “We [Dawson and Strong] have both said that. We’re both super-competitive and like to win.
“You coach to win games and I want to make finals with them.
“Even with the injuries, we’ve still got enough quality players to do that.
“We have some very impressive talent at this club.”
Young Jets hoping their attack takes off
Point Cook Soccer Club is hoping its senior men’s soccer side can recover from a slow start and make a push up the FFV state league 4 ladder.
Seven rounds into the season, the Jets are sixth with three wins. From a similar position last year, the club went on to finish second.
Point Cook vice-president Lindsay Phillips is confident the players can repeat that effort.
Phillipssaidhethoughttheyoungsidesimply needed more playing time a er a number of changes in the off-season.
“A similar thing happened last year and it was four or five weeks before the team was able to gel together,” he said.
“ is year we have quite a few more young kids.
“We’ve got two or three around 16 or 17 years of age playing in the senior team at the moment. I think our youngest is about 15. It’s a very young squad. I would say the average age is low 20s.”
Despite not going at 100 per cent, the Jets are defending well. ey have conceded just 12 goals this season.
“We have got a couple of good keepers even though we have suffered a few injuries in that area,” Phillips said.
“Our attack, if anything, at this stage has been our weakness. Our defence has been quite good.
“ e attacking side of the game and the strikers will hopefully step up in the next couple of weeks.”
is season is just Point Cook’s second in senior competition.
A er a brilliant debut year, in which the club won 16 games in state league 5 and was promoted, the Jets are hoping more success will follow.
“Our first goal is to finish in the top two so we can get promoted.” Phillips said.
“ at’s always the goal. Failing that, we want to finish as high up on the ladder as we can.
“We really want to keep the momentum of the club going. To finish second in our first year was fantastic.
“We’re still hopeful that we can pull some results out and hopefully mirror that success again this year.”
Liam Twomey
Ask the coach 3
Ask the Coach
As you have come up through the coaching ranks and from your playing days what coaches have influenced you?
My Dad coached me for large parts of my junior footy, so grew up in a coaching household so to speak.
Wayne Primmer (ex Essendon) was my first senior coach, he really taught me to value the possessions you get.
Keith Burns through Collingwood Under 19’s was a terrific coach, he helped me to understand just how hard you need to work to make something of yourself in football.
David Dickson (Ex Carlton) was a great coach, he helped me learn more about leadership ...
Of course Donald McDonald at Werribee was a great influence in just a short time ... you tend to learn from all the coaches you work with ... Dean Laidley, Darren Crocker, Brett Allison and Brad Scott at North Melbourne, you learn from all of them ...
Do you have a match day routinecertain food, get to the ground at certain time etc ?
No not really, I just try to get a good night’s sleep if I can ... I have always tried to keep things relatively simple and not too rigid.
I do tend to prefer to be on my own, watching a bit of footy on the TV ... Last week, Werribee had the bye, but you didn’t allow any of the players to go back and play with their local clubs, why was that?
Simple ... to freshen players up. We had 2 internal practice games, then 4 against opposition and have had 5 rounds of the season proper ... our list was ready for a week off.
It is worth remembering that the players who have come to our club have done so in the pursuit of playing the best football they can. They have signed on at Werribee to play in the VFL, they are Werribee players now and as such, they have the bye.
There will be bye weeks when we encourage some players to go back and have a game at local level, but this particular bye was not one of them ... it will be decided on a player by player basis.
You can “Ask the Coach.”
Send your questions via email askthecoach@werribeefc.com.au or post on our facebook or twitter pages #askthecoach
Kate Thompson was a stand-out for VU Western Lightning against Ballarat Pride. (Darren Howe))
Point Cook goalkeeper Dan Dubovsky has been part of a strong Jets defence this season.
(Shawn Smits)
MOTOR
Zippy Alfa unpredictable but fun
By David Bonnici
e Alfa Romeo MiTo is an economical town car and a curve-loving sports-hatch in one. Trouble is, sometimes you don’t know which one you’re going to get.
Too so on the pedal and it responds in kind, with the six-speed automatic gearbox choosing economy over zing. Put the foot down too hard and she’ll rev to just below the red line before the next gear kicks in – great for a freeway entrance, not so much in a school zone.
It is erratic, but when you eventually get the balance right the drive is nice and brisk.
Adding to the variable driving experience is the Alfa Romeo’s DNA driving settings (Dynamic/Normal/All-weather), which you select with a switch on the centre console.
e D should stand for Diablo. It turns this little town car into a wicked hatch, with a high-revving gear ratio that gets plenty from the tiny but powerful 1.4l turbo engine.
You can feel the boost when you flick the switch as well as the stiffer suspension and steering. is all made for a delightful drive through the winding roads out Anakie way.
Back in normal mode, the MiTo showed its city street smarts with light handling and fuel efficiency enhanced by Alfa’s ‘Start&Stop’, a feature that you can select to automatically turn the engine off when you’re at a standstill. It’s pretty disconcerting at first, but because the engine starts when you take your foot off the brake, it’s ready to go when you accelerate.
e MiTo’s good looks continue inside. e Distinctive has leather-appointed seats and trim, and lots of curves on the dash and doors.
I noted the cupholder at the front only fits a small takeaway coffee cup – like the Italian carmaker is trying to make a point.
Infotainment is via a five-inch screen that connects easily to your phone/MP3 device via Bluetooth or USB. Other features include voice control, electric sunroof, dual-zone climate control and rain-sensing windscreen wipers. e back seat fits two adults comfortably. e 270-litre cargo area will fit your shopping, but forget about fitting your golf bag. is is a fun and versatile car for someone wanting a ride that stands out from the
sports-hatch pack. e MiTo is available at Werribee Fiat Alfa, 108/22-30 Wallace Avenue, Point Cook. www.werribeefiatalfa.com.au
•RoadTest&providewrittenStatusReport. IS YOUR ASTRA RUNNING AT IT’S OPTIMUM PERFORMANCE LEVEL?
Astra excludes diesel models & 2.2lt Z22 engine.
Briefs
Audi sedan hits showrooms
The rst Audi S3 sedan is on sale in Australia. Combining the sporty proportions of the A3 sedan with the performance credentials of the S3, it’s aimed at a new legion of admirers in the compact luxury sports sedan market. The S3 sits 25mm lower than the A3 sedan and has a slightly shorter wheelbase (6mm) for responsive handling. It weighs just 1450kg, making it the lightest sports sedan in its class. The $62,200 S3 sedan is powered by a 2.0 TFSI engine that develops an impressive 206kW and 380Nm. Acceleration performance is just as noteworthy, reaching 100km/h from rest in just 5 seconds.
Beefed-up Beemers
BMW Group Australia has announced pricing and speci cation details for the latest version of the company’s mid-sized performance sedan, the M3, and its M4 Coupé sibling. Both cars have more than $8500 of extra speci cations and features than the previous models. The M3 sedan begins at $156,900 and the M4 Coupé at $166,900 – a small increase over the predecessor that’s made up for with inclusion of new standard features.
More features for Honda City
The new Honda City is now available in two variants. The VTi has a manual transmission and CVT, and the VTi-L has CVT as standard. The 1.5-litre SOHC four-cylinder engine delivers 88kW of power at 6600rpm and 145Nm of torque at 4600rpm. The engine is coupled with the all-new CVT with torque converter from Honda’s Earth Dreams Technology series. Key features of the new Honda City
include plenty of interior space with more head, leg and shoulder room, advanced technology and safety features, stylish design, great driving dynamics, exceptional fuel economy and a quality nish unlike any other in its class. The 536-litre boot is even bigger than its predecessor and most large sedans. The ef cient car is competitively priced from $15,990.
Jaguar restarts E-type project Jaguar will build six perfect reproductions of the race-bred Lightweight E-type that was created in 1963. The new cars are the “missing” six vehicles from Jaguar’s Lightweight E-type project, which started in February 1963 with the objective of building 18 special GT E-type cars. Only 12 of the aluminium-bodied Lightweight E-types were eventually built, the last in 1964. The remaining six designated chassis numbers have lain dormant, until now. The new cars, to be hand-built by Jaguar’s nest craftsmen, will include the original 3.8-litre straight-six engine. Jaguar expects high demand for the vehicles. Established Jaguar collectors, especially those with historic race car interests, will be given priority.
Award for eye-catching Kia Kia’s oddly-named Pro_cee’d GT has been awarded an Australian Good Design Selection accolade, making it eligible for a prestigious Good Design award when the nal winners are announced in Sydney later this month. Judges were taken by the Pro_cee’d GT’s “elegant balance between beauty and aggression in the overall styling …the end result is a car that looks fast even when standing still”.
