Families of residents living in Wyndham’s only psychogeriatric centre fear their loved ones will be forced into hospital psychiatric wards or ill-equipped aged-care homes when the centre closes its doors at the end of the year.
North Western Mental Health, which is part of Melbourne Health, announced last Tuesday that it was closing South Stone Lodge because of the 30-bed centre’s high vacancy rates and unsustainable nancial losses.
It said its residents, who su er from dementia and other mental health conditions, could be properly cared for in mainstream aged-care facilities with support and assistance from community outreach mental health services.
But residents’ families disagree, with many telling Star Weekly they had approached mainstream centres without success.
Williamstown’s Sue Findley said mainstream centres were not interested in caring for her mother because they deemed her to be aggressive.
Ms Findley’s mother has dementia and has lived at South Stone Lodge for close to 17 years a er being placed there by a court order.
Since then, she has spent some time in private centres but they were unable to properly care for her.
Ms Findley said her mother needed to stick to a strict routine and required constant supervision because she had a compulsive behavioural disorder.
“In a privately operated facility, if you don’t have the expertise and sta ng levels to assist with mum and
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others with these needs … it will cause mum to spiral out of control and end up in state psychiatric care,” she said.
“It’s frightening to think about what is going to happen to her.”
Seabrook’s Jodie Seiuli is concerned that leaving South Stone Lodge will be too much for her father.
e 59-year-old has been living at the centre for a couple of years because he was too young and required too much care to be looked a er in a mainstream aged-care centre.
‘‘ It’s frightening to think about what is going to happen ’’
- Sue Findley
“I don’t know what is going to happen to my dad. I’m worried it will be too much for him and he will pass sooner than he should,” she said.
“It is too hard for him to go into mainstream care because he needs too much care … I’m worried he will end up in a psychiatric ward.
“He should be able to spend his last days with dignity.”
e Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation and the Health and Community Services Union have vowed to ght the closure, saying the decision is short-sighted and does not consider the needs of residents.
North Western Mental Health executive director Ruth Vine said the organisation would help residents transition into alternative accommodation of their choice and help sta nd new jobs.
Bollywood dancers Manasnni Duddukuru, Sanjana Jaiswal, Rachana Koorthy and Charishma Pathi
Diwali
festival
Park
(Joe Mastroianni)
Care threat sparks school fears
By Laura Michell
Primary school children living in Little River could lose access to an out-of-hours care program because the town is classi ed as being part of a major city.
Little River Primary School has been told that federal government funding for its out-of-hours care program will cease early next year because 2011 census data showed the town was in a major city. e town, on the outskirts of Wyndham, is a 15 to 20-minute drive from Werribee’s CBD
and has a population of less than 1400 people. It has one shop, no public bus service, unsealed roads and no natural gas or sewerage. Only half its properties have town water.
e town has previously been classi ed as ‘inner regional’, allowing the school to access funding for its out-of-hours care program.
School council president Gillian Caldwell said 39 of the school’s 77 families used the before and a er-school service.
She said without the funding, the school would probably have to close the program, leaving 57 children without care.
“Without the funding, we won’t have a viable program,” she said.
“We don’t have formal childcare in Little River, other than the school program.
‘‘If children were forced to walk home to an emptyhouse,ononesideofLittleRiverchildren would need to cross a narrow bluestone bridge with no room for pedestrians and only enough room for two cars. On another side they would need to cross an unmanned railway line.’’
Ms Caldwell said if Little River was to lose out-of-hours care, about a third of the school’s families could be forced to leave.
Cultures emerge in curious shapes
Contortionists, choirs and couture will take centre stage at the Wyndham Cultural Centre next month as part of an annual festival to celebrate Wyndham’s cultural diversity.
Among the performers at the Emerge festival will be Hoppers Crossing resident and contortionist Teame Ersie, who will take part in an Ethiopian circus show.
Fellow Hoppers Crossing resident Vissolela Ndenzako will host an Afro-Australian fashion show; the Skin Choir will sing about cultural identity; and festival veteran Atakilty Woreita will perform an Ethiopian co ee ceremony.
e festival will also feature outdoor performances by Karen, Samoan, Tongan and indigenous singers and dancers, and an art exhibition by Karen tapestry weavers Mu Naw Poe and Shuklay Tahpo and Eritrean painter Michael Adonai.
Karen musician Hsar Pweh says the festival is a good opportunity for people to learn more about the di erent cultures in Wyndham.
“Emerge is a great event because we get to see so many di erent cultures, their costumes, their food and their traditional dance and songs,” he said.
Wyndham mayor Bob Fairclough said Wyndham was fortunate to be home to so many talented artists and performers.
“ e city embraces the opportunity to highlight their works as an expression of our cultural and linguistic diversity,” he said.
e Emerge art exhibition is at Wyndham Art Gallery from Wednesday, October 1, until Sunday, November 2.
And the Emerge Festival will be held at Wyndham Cultural Centre on Saturday, October 4, starting at noon.
For details call 8734 6000.
‘‘It would be crippling for Little River Primary School and its wider community,” she said.
Inalettertotheschool,thefederalEducation Department said it had used census data to review all childcare services receiving community support program funding, It found Little River Primary School was no longer eligible under the funding guidelines. e department said it understood that an immediate withdrawal would impact on forward planning and, as such, funding would continue until early February.
snag
Plans for a tree-planting and barbecue to celebrate the opening of a new walking and bike trail in Melbourne’s west have been wrecked, with thieves at the weekend stealing a car fridge containing 20kilograms of meat.
Friends of Lower Kororoit Creek (FOLKC) and other volunteers were about to plant 400 trees and shrubs near the historic bluestone bridge at Brooklyn when the the happened on Sunday morning.
President Geo Mitchelmore said it spoiled the Friends’ last planting for the year – Bushcare’s Major Day Out celebration of the o cial opening of the ‘missing link’ in Kororoit Creek Trail.
“We le the trucks, trailers and all the planting and barbecue equipment unattended for 30 minutes while distributing trees,” Mr Mitchelmore said.
“We’reaccustomedtopettypilferingof stakes and guards from planted trees and shrubs, but the audacity to steal from an obvious volunteer organisation working in the interests of the community and environment leaves us speechless.” e meat had been donated by Cedar Meats. “Other than having to send out for extra food and eventually replacing the expensive car fridge, FOLKC is not that perturbed, just amazed,” Mr Mitchelmore added, before joking: “Four hundred indigenous trees and plants were planted and a 400-metre section of shared trail was opened to the public –followed by freshly barbecued rabbit and carp sandwiches.”
e section of trail was funded by Wyndham council.
Goya Dmytryshchak
Contortionist Teame Ersie and other participants at the upcoming Emerge Festival. (Damjan Janevski)
Plaza Library gets a new storey
By Cameron Tait
Werribee’s Plaza Library is expected to shut its doors from late November or early December ahead of its relocation within the shopping centre’s new entertainment precinct.
During the transition, the opening hours of Werribee CBD library will be extended to 8pm Mondays to ursdays and from 1.30 to 5pm on Sundays, according to Wyndham chief executive Kerry ompson.
Ms ompson is also encouraging people to visit the Wyndham Vale and Point Cook libraries and use the library service’s online resources.
‘‘
About 400,000 people a year will visit the new library ’’ - Kerry Thompson
e new Plaza Library will be opened on the rst oor of the new precinct, which is under construction on the Derrimut Road side of the centre as part of its $370 million redevelopment.
Ms ompson said as an existing tenant of the plaza, the centre’s owners, the Paci c Group of Companies, is obligated under a lease agreement to provide a new location for the library.
e council will contribute $260,000 for new shelving and furniture.
“ e new library will be the same size as the existing library and will feature a new, quiet study room,” she said.
“It is anticipated that about 400,000 people a year will visit the new library.”
On the run for funds
Werribee’s Peter Cullen has dedicated his life to helping people battling homelessness, poverty or mental illness.
In 1990, Mr Cullen founded not-for-pro t organisation Reclink Australiatoprovidepeopleexperiencing disadvantage with access to sport and art programs. He has since rolled out the organisation’s programs across the country with the help of federal government funding.
In May, Mr Cullen discovered that federalcutsmeanttheorganisationwould lose about $500,000, almost a quarter of its budget.
“Wehavehadtopullbackonalotofour initiativesbecausewelostsomuchfunding,’’ he said. “It’s disappointing, because you spend a lot of time building up an organisation to support people … only to have this happen.”
To help make up for the lost funding, Mr Cullen is organising a fund-raising runbesidetheWerribeeRiver.Hehopes tosignup100runnersfortheNovember 9 event, with each runner or team raising $500 for Reclink. Participants can run a half, full or 60-kilometre ultra-marathon. For details, visit www.everydayhero.com.au/event/ RunforReclink.
(Joe Mastroianni)
Laura Michell
PETER CULLEN
‘Death traps’ still unfunded
By Laura Michell
Wyndham’s ageing and overcrowded schools have again been overlooked for maintenance funding, despite the state government announcing $23 million to repair and replace buildings at 169 schools.
Education Minister Martin Dixon last week said the government was committed to providing state schools with better facilities. He said the $23 million would be spent on the 321 school buildings most in need of urgent works.
However, the government has ruled that none of those school buildings are in Wyndham despite several schools, including Werribee Secondary College and e Grange College, pleading for funding in recent years.
Werribee Secondary College has urged the government to provide $7 million to replace buildings described as potential death traps, while e Grange has had no signi cant infrastructure added since it was built more than 20 years ago.
A 2012 audit of government school maintenance found notable issues with 2042
Program on the ropes
A Werribee-based boxing program for at-risk young people is under threat unless it nds a new home.
Coach Darren Cowley and volunteer mentors, including youth worker Andrew Zerafa, have used the sport to transform lives since 2008.
e program, running six nights a week at Werribee’s In Balance Fitness gym, regularly attracts more than 20 young people from a broad range of backgrounds.
Many come from low socio-economic families and have struggled to hold down or secure full-time education or employment.
Mr Cowley, who operated a similar program in New Zealand, says the aim is to provide young people with a sense of purpose.
“We started with half a dozen boys and they were all ghters, but it’s snowballed and we’re now over owing,” he said.
Mr Zerafa, who works as a school well-being
councillor,saidtheprogramwaspayingdividends.
“Someofthesekidshavedroppedoutofschool, are unemployed or are just angry at the world and have nobody to look up to. We teach them how to look a er their mental and physical health and the value and rewards that come from hard work.”
One of the boxers, Michael, of Tarneit, said the program was making a di erence. “Some of the kids in here were on the verge of being locked up.”
Mr Cowley said that despite a desperate appeal, the were still seeking a larger venue to accommodate the program.
“In Balance Fitness has been kind enough to let us use a room free of charge, but they’re a commercial gym and we’ve just outgrown them. It might be a dilapidated warehouse; we just need somewhere to call home.”
buildings at 505 schools across Victoria. A further 3074 buildings were below standard.
e report said close to $45 million needed to be spent on 142 western suburbs schools to bring buildings up to scratch.
Opposition treasury spokesman and Tarneit MP Tim Pallas said it was disappointing that Wyndham schools had been ignored.
Mr Pallas said about 80 per cent of the maintenance funding was being spent on schools in safe Coalition or marginal seats.
“ isistypicaloftheNapthinegovernment’s attitude towards education in Wyndham.
‘‘ e Liberal government has failed to match Victorian Labor’s commitment to fund $10million for Tarneit P-9 and $7million for Werribee Secondary College’s capital works,” he said.
An Education Department spokesman said the funding was being spent on the schools identi ed by the 2012 audit as being most in need.
“ e government’s audit has given us a clear and consistent picture of school maintenance requirements so that funding is allocated to schools that need it most.”
Cameron Tait
DARREN COWLEY
(Damjan Janevski)
Kevin Hillier would like to see more police on our streets
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hile we moan about problems like tra c and growth in our city, there can be no more pressing issue than the lack of police.Personalsafetyisparamounttoenjoying living anywhere, and when that’s compromised it becomes a very big problem. I nd it hard to fathom why it took us so long to get the second police station on Sayers Road. Almost the day it opened we needed another. is catch-up mentalityisn’townedbyeithersideofpolitics;it is, unfortunately, shared. Why? Because there’s no political gain in winning the hearts and minds of voters in our area. is may change slightly a er this election when we control two seats rather than one, but I strongly doubt it. Don’t blame the police either; if I see one more social media rant about being booked for not wearing a seat belt or using a mobile “while drug-dealers and murderers roam the streets” I’ll scream. Police are doing the best they can. e money spent on so many useless and unimportant non-essential programs at every level of government is obscene. Do we need a newsculptureinthemainstreetordoweprefer
more police to make sure people in that street feelsafe?Yes,Iknowthat’sanexaggeration,but it’s worth asking. Rallies and petitions serve their purpose but we need action.
I’ve never been comfortable with beggars in the streets, and not in that look-downyour-nose-on way, either. My problem has always been giving money and not knowing what it was being used for. But I’ve discovered a program that originated in Rome called Suspended Co ee. e idea is you pay for a co ee for someone who can’t a ord one. Cafes which sign up for the program display stickers so those in need know where to go. I checked their website and couldn’t nd any cafes in Wyndham that were registered, which is a shame, although there are a few in the west at Altona, Spotswood and Seddon. I know a cup of co ee won’t change someone’s life but it does give the donor the certainty the money is being used in the right way. I’d love to hear from Wyndham businesses who’ll sign up. Go to www.suspendedco eemelbourne.com.au.■
If you have any news or events, let me know at kevin@howdypartnersmedia.co
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Transport Minister Terry Mulder last week revealed a preferred route to link Avalon Airport with the existing train track between Melbourne and Geelong. The rail link formed part of the government’s 2010 election platform. Mr Mulder conceded that with only ve ights a day at the airport, the rail link was some time away, and was unable to give an opening date. However, he said the Avalon project – at about $200 million – was relatively cheap and simple compared to the major work needed to build the proposed Melbourne Airport rail link.
Council seeks crossing promise Wyndham council has urged the state opposition to commit to a second major Yarra River crossing. Labor’s East-West Link alternative, the western distributor, will add one lane in either direction of the West Gate Freeway and remove trucks from the West Gate Bridge. But Cr Glenn Goodfellow said despite removing 20,000 to 30,000 vehicles and 5000 trucks, the plan will have a “short lifespan” due to Wyndham’s population growth.
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Point Cook hub on its way Planning has started for a community centre to open in Point Cook in 2016. The $7.3 million Saltwater Promenade Community Centre will include a kindergarten, maternal and child health service, community kitchen, meeting rooms and an open amphitheatre for outdoor performances. Construction is due to start next year.
Residents not so neighbourly
By Cameron Tait
Fences and unruly and intimidating behaviour are the leading causes of disputes between neighbours in Wyndham.
Figures from the Dispute Settlement Centre of Victoria (DSCV) reveal that 330 complaints related to xing, replacing or agreeing to the cost of fences were received in the 12 months to July, with 24 referred to mediation.
Behavioural disputes, including threats and bullying, accounted for 197 calls in Wyndham in the same period. ere were 46 calls about
property issues, including the or damage, 45 about overhanging trees and creepers, 14 relating to noise and 13 about animals.
e centre received 20,000 calls in 2013-14, including 680 from Wyndham residents, the second-highest number in Melbourne’s west, behind only Brimbank, and sixth-highest in the state.
However, DSCV director Gina Ralston said the centre was elding more than 50 calls each day from people wanting to resolve disputes early. Ms Ralston said new fencing laws which came into e ect this week would
Cakes recipe for a cure
Pupils at Iramoo Primary School have been enjoyingsweettreatsthismonthtoraisemoney for childhood cancer research.
roughout September, the school has been selling cupcakes made by parents to promote the work done by the Kids’ Cancer Project.
e project is one of the largest funders of childhood cancer research in Australia and is currently funding 13 research projects.
Principal Moira Findlay said the school was showing its support for the project because it had two pupils being treated for cancer.
“ e school community has really got behind cupcakes for a cure,” she said.
“Each day, the cupcakes go on sale at 10am and are sold out by 10.50. I’ve been overwhelmed and humbled by the generosity of the local community.”
e school has raised $1500 so far and Kids’ Cancer Project director Col Reynolds says the money will help fund more research.
“Over the last 21 years, I’ve looked into the eyes of so many children with cancer and promised them I would dedicate my life to nding a cure,” he said.
“I won’t ever give up and that means we need more funds for more research.
“ e quest to nd cures for childhood cancers is one of medicine’s greatest success stories.
“Fi y years ago only 2 per cent of children with cancer survived.
“ e gure today is approaching 80 per cent.”
Laura Michell
‘‘ Seeking advice or mediation is a positive step ’’ - Gina Ralston
provide a clear pathway for resolving disputes between neighbours.
“Ultimately we expect these changes will result in fewer fencing disputes across the state. Seeking advice or mediation is a positive step to prevent smaller disputes from escalating to more complex ones. Don’t let disagreements
over issues such as fencing, barking dogs or loud music degenerate into more serious con ict such as assault, criminal damage or harassment,” Ms Ralston advised. She said e ective communication, keeping emotions in check, listening and attacking the problem rather than the person were keys to resolving disputes.
e DSCV provides free services to help with neighbourhood and community disputes including mediation, advice and a referral service. For more details, phone 1800 658 528 or visit www.disputes.vic.gov.au.
Connor (second from left) and some of his Iramoo Primary School classmates tuck into cupcakes made by parents. (Joe Mastroianni)
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Rail promises a long time coming Typical of Labor to promise miracles but never actually deliver [‘Clear cut choice for voters on traf c woes’, Star Weekly, September 17].
Fix the Cherry and Werribee crossings?
The ALP refused to do this during its decade-long reign but now pretends it will nally do something about these dangerous crossings. What’s even worse is the fact that a majority of people in the west will still vote Labor, despite the fact the ALP continually fails to work for our best interests.
Nothing will change here until we make our seats marginal.
Tony A, via web
We need an alternative river crossing to the West Gate Bridge, no matter what.
Cee Mee, via web
Pollution a major problem
I don’t care about the horses. Why are we not worrying more about the pollution that
is engul ng Werribee [‘Noise works for top horses’, Star Weekly, September 17].
With houses and the plaza being ripped up, the wind blows rubbish every which way. God only knows what’s in the soil, but it is causing ill health.
I can’t even turn on my heater to keep warm. When I’m tempted, all I get is a foul odour and the taste gets into my mouth.
It’s really horrible. My lungs won’t cope at this rate.
Anna Laszynski, via web
Sometimes, it’s a dog’s life
Re: ‘Anxious pooches put on the couch’, Star Weekly, September 10:
My 10-month-old black labrador Diesel has shown signs of separation anxiety when I’m in the house and he’s in the backyard.
He runs to every window and pants rapidly.
Even when he sees me, he bashes on the glass doors in desperation.
My other dog Shilo was a pure-bred collie. She didn’t show any signs of anxiety at all – we released her into the backyard from the laundry as an eight-week-old pup and she never had any desire to be inside.
We had this sweetie for 15 wonderful years.
I’m hoping Diesel will improve with age. Either way, we love him just the same.
Amanda, via web
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: Corner Thomsons Road and Keilor Park Drive, Keilor Park, 3042 Email: westletters@starweekly.com.au
Having fun on the run
Pupils from primary schools across the western suburbs ocked to Werribee last week to take part in an athletics carnival hosted by Wyndham Track and Field Club. The modi ed non-competitive program, a rst for the region, was put together as part of a partnership with the International Association of Athletics Federations’ Healthy Kids initiative, Athletics Australia and the Australian Sports Commission to encourage children to be active and involved in sport. The aim of the games-based carnival was teaching children the basics of running, jumping and throwing. The Wyndham club’s children’s athletics summer kick-start program starts on October 26. For more details visit www.wyndhamtf.com
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• Horticulture
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Cameron Tait
(Wayne Hawkins)
KRYSTAL, 10, OF TRUGANIA PRIMARY
Star Weekly, September 17
Werribee line’s sardine squeeze
By Cameron Tait
Nearly one in two passengers on the Werribee line is forced to squeeze into overcrowded trains during morning and a ernoon peaks, according to a new Public Transport Victoria survey.
e Metropolitan Train Peak Passenger Loads report was compiled as a result of a survey of commuter numbers taken in May this year. e surveys are conducted twice-yearly to measure passenger loads against capacity benchmarks and help pinpoint when and on
which sections of Melbourne’s 15 rail lines passenger loads are at their highest, with the results used to determine where extra services are required.
On the Werribee line, the percentage of passengers travelling on overcrowded morning peak trains leapt from 32.7 to 46.7 per cent between May, 2013, and May this year.
ose making the journey home during the a ernoon peak fared little better, with the percentage of passengers on overcrowded trains at 46.7 per cent.
Despite these gures, earlier this month,
‘Fast’ vegies are gold
Growing vegetables in water without soil?
Sounds a bit shy.
But in a glasshouse at Werribee Park, a group of horticultural students is working on a pilot project using the waste produced by a school of gold sh to provide the nutrients for hydroponically grown herbs and vegetables.
e system is called aquaponics, a combinationofaquacultureandhydroponics, that produces vegetables and sh in the one system using no soil and signi cantly less water.
As the vegetables and herbs develop, the sh swim around, fertilising them and purifying the water.
Parks Victoria horticulturalist Adam Smith, who designed the project, said it was already paying dividends.
“ is particular system uses three types of hydroponic methods: gravel growing beds which act as a lter; gutter growing beds,
which use pots; and oating beds where the plants virtually walk on water,” he said.
“ e system uses 90 per cent less water than a conventional soil garden.”
Mr Smith said the vegetables matured in four weeks, rather than the typical nine weeks had they been grown in the ground.
e vegetables and herbs will be shared by the students and used at the Mansion Hotel, while the gold sh will eventually be returned to the park’s garden pond.
“It’s such a quick and e cient system that we are planting di erent crops about every four weeks a er each harvest,” Mr Smith said.
Cameron Tait
Public Transport Minister Terry Mulder said the latest customer satisfaction monitor showed passengers using Melbourne’s public transport were more satis ed with the network than when the Coalition came to o ce in 2010.
“Satisfaction with running of train services is now at 71.5 per cent, the highest on record,” Mr Mulder said.
But Public Transport Users Association spokesman Daniel Bowen said that given Wyndham’s rapid population growth, the government urgently needed to boost services on the Werribee line.
“ eWerribeelinecarriesalotofpassengers, but services haven’t improved in some years,” Mr Bowen said.
“A train every 11 minutes in peak obviously isn’t enough.
“Improvements need to be made to help connect people to railway stations without them having to drive and ght for a car park.
“ e opening of the Regional Rail Link in 2015, with new stations at Wyndham Vale and Tarneit, will also help in providing a second rail line into the outer west, though we are yet to hear details of how many services will run.”
DR ALEX SOLTANI
Dr Soltani graduated from medical school in 2009.He is currently enrolled in RACGP program.His interests are in skin cancer,men’s health and minor skin procedures.
DR SATISH SINGH
Dr Satish Singh speaks English, Hindi & Urdu fluently.Trained and experienced in the UK. Besides general practice he has special interests in care of chronic disease management, skin lessons & minor surgery.
DR AMALA PATHIRANA
Amala is of Sri Lankan origin and has been working in Australia since 2000.She enjoys the diversity of general practice but has a special interest in women’s health,paediatric and adolescent health and chronic illness management.
Dr Nestor Fuertes
Dr Marta Seigel Shumba
Dr Saeideh Khodabakhshi
Dr David Louey
Dr Helen Grogan
Dr Lianne Wong
Dr Alex Soltani
Dr Amir Faham
Dr Phillip Ead
Dr Satish Singh
Dr Asher Freilich
Dr Amala Pathirana
Dr Venkata Musku
Parks Victoria horticulturalist Adam Smith with student Evelyn Kunoo. (Supplied)
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Jubilee will feature:
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Tigers seek Chirnside pledge
By Cameron Tait
Werribee Football Club chief executive Mark Penaluna has urged Labor and the Coalition to provide the $2.5 million required to complete Chirnside Park’s redevelopment if they win November’s state election.
However, both Tarneit Labor MP Tim Pallas and Western Metropolitan Liberal MP Andrew Elsbury last week refused to commit to additional funding.
Wyndham council last month promised
$5.5million over its next two budgets to help bring the venue up to AFL and building code standards.
e Tigers will contribute $1 million to the redevelopment, with the AFL and AFL Victoria providing $250,000 each.
e council has joined the club in lobbying the government for additional funding to build multi-purpose community and commercial spaces and provide an upgraded gym, lecture rooms, o ces and areas for other sporting associations.
Olivia makes early start
Mum-to-be Debbie Chapman wasn’t feeling too well, so she went to see her GP.
Four days later, the Wyndham Vale resident le hospital with baby daughter Olivia.
“I went to the doctor to get a medical certi cate,” she said. “He checked my signs and told me to go straight to hospital because he said my baby was likely to be born prematurely.
“I was rushed to Sunshine Hospital and then to the Royal Women’s and was told the baby could come tomorrow, next week or in a month and that it would be very small.”
Mrs Chapman was diagnosed with pre-eclampsia, a pregnancy disorder characterised by high blood pressure.
She was told that, if le untreated, she could develop life-threatening seizures.
“Itwassurreal,”shesaid.“Ihadnoideaabout pre-eclampsia and I no idea what to expect.
“I saw the babies in the neonatal intensive care unit and I broke down. I was told at my ultrasound that my baby weighed 700 grams
and the babies in intensive care were generally 1.2 kilograms.
“I remember how incredibly small and fragile they looked but my baby was only just over half their size, and that was confronting.”
Olivia was born in December 2012 at 28 weeks and six days, weighing just 810 grams. She had to spend two months in intensive care.
“Luckily, she was able to breathe on her own a er only two days, but it was a day-by-day, step-by-step process,” Mrs Chapman said
Olivia is now a healthy and happy toddler.
“She’s still small for her age, but she’s doing well now,” Mrs Chapman said.
On October 26, the Chapman family will again take part in the Life’s Little Treasures Foundation’s Walk For Prems at Albert Park Lake, a fund-raiser which supports parents of premature and sick babies. For more information, visit : www.walkforprems.org.au.
As reported by Star Weekly, Mr Penaluna saidtheclub’sheadquartersfailedtomeetbasic requirements for women’s and umpire change rooms, seating and accessibility. If elected, Labor has pledged $70 million to further redevelop Geelong’s Skilled Stadium.
However, Mr Pallas would only say Werribee’s bid for extra funding would be considered by a Labor government. “Labor will establish a $10 million grant fund to build and upgrade women change rooms and facilities at sports clubs around the state,” he said.
Mr Elsbury said he was a strong supporter of the redevelopment, but also gave little away.
“We will continue to work with the council and the Werribee Football Club, but we can’t make any commitments in terms of funding.”
Mr Penaluna said he was hopeful the redevelopment would receive government support. “We think we have a terri c proposal,” he said. “We just hope the state government contributes the funding we have applied for and delivers a facility that the City of Wyndham needs.”
Cameron Tait Debbie Chapman with daughter Olivia, 21 months, and husband Robert. (Shawn Smits)
Taxi ght good guy badly beaten
A man who defended a taxi driver during a vicious attack in Williamstown has received severe facial injuries a er the attacker turned his rage on him, police say. e incident began with an argument between the taxi driver and the o ender a er the cab driver refused to take a woman home from Nelson Place about 1am on Sunday.
Victoria Police’s Leading Constable Lee ompson said the woman had “hailed a taxi driver and he refused her fare”.
Letting the kids run wild
Children can gallop like a zebra or prowl like a wild dog at Werribee Open Range Zoo’s new outdoor play space. The area has been designed to nurture a love of nature and encourage children to roam about, scaling rocks, jumping off logs, digging holes and exploring the world around them. The adventure begins by the zoo’s creek bed, where children can search for animal tracks as they leap across the stepping stones or balance on log bridges. Then there’s a rocky outcrop of the wild dog dens to explore and a tunnel to crawl through. The play space is open until October 5. For more details, visit www.zoo.org.au/werribee.
Police media o cer Clair White said that when a bystander tried to help, the attacker turned his attention to the ‘good Samaritan’ and began to hit him in the face.
“ e good Samaritan, a 27-year-old Point Cook man, received signi cant facial injuries and was taken to Werribee Hospital,”
- Clair White
Ms White said. e attacker ed on foot.
Ms White said several other ghts broke out a er the man ran o . Police do not believe they were related to the rst attack. “ e male [attacker] has then taken o ence to that and assaulted the driver,” she said. It’s unknown whether the man and the woman knew each other.
e o ender is described as fair-skinned, aged in his early 20s, with a slim build and light brown hair. He was wearing blue pants and a dark top at the time of the attack. e taxi driver drove away a er the attack and police are appealing for him and the woman to contact them. Anyone else who witnessed the attack is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800333000.
Caroline Zielinski, e Age
LUCAS, 2, WITH DAD SAM POWELL (Shawn Smits)
Muso’s purple reign
By Cameron Tait
When Point Cook musician Darren Hart received an email from Prince’s manager he didn’t know what to think.
At rst,hethoughtitmighthavebeenascam.
Having idolised the superstar American singer behind such hits as Purple Rain and When Doves Cry, it was a dream come true.
“It [the email] came out of the blue,” Hart says. “His manager said, ‘Prince likes what you’re doing with your music’.”
But that was just the beginning.
e former Heathdale Christian College student, who makes music under the name Harts, then received a phone call which changed his life – it was Prince.
“He had heard my music and seen my YouTube performances and he invited me over to his studio in Minneapolis,” Hart said.
“I spent a week with him playing with his musicians. It was a mind-blowing experience.
“When I got the email I’ll admit I was a little sceptical, but my manager looked into it and realised it was legitimate. When I received the phone call, I recognised his voice.
“He’s an idol and to hear him say he enjoyed my music was a huge con dence boost.”
Classifying his music as a “blend of rock, funk, soul and pop”, Hart has just released his debut self-produced album, Daydreamer, in which he sings and plays all the instruments, including guitar, drums and keyboard.
e 23-year-old has been described by radio station Triple J as a “one man music-making machine”.
Hart will now take his album on the road and plans to work on a new project with Nick LittlemoreofAustralianelectronicduo,Empire of the Sun.
For more details, visit www.hartsmusic.com.
Inspect this Thursday or Saturday 11 am - 4 pm or call 13 28 36 to arrange an appointment.
DARREN HART
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Off to the races for charity
Spring racing fever will take over Wyndham Cache in November as diners help raise money for the Royal Children’s Hospital. The Werribee South cafe and deli is teaming up with the Cancer Crusaders to help the hospital ght childhood cancers. The Wyndham group, which includes Sharron Markovic, was formed in October 2013 and organises regular fund-raisers for the hospital. An Oaks Day lunch will be held at the cafe from midday-4pm on Thursday, November 6. Ms Markovic says the race day extravaganza will include a three-course meal, sweeps, raf es, fashions on the eld and a best hat competition. Tickets cost $60. To attend, email secretary@cancercrusaders.org.au by October 23.
On Monday, the Wyndham highway patrol was conducting speed checks on Industrial Avenueatabout8.40amwheno cers recorded a car travelling at 119km/h in a 50km/h zone.
e 37-year-old Point Cook man allegedly told police he was testing the vehicle. He has been summonsed to face court on speed-related charges.
Last ursday at 1pm, an o cer from the same highway patrol spotted a driver doing burnouts on the wrong side of the road on Dunlop Avenue.
Police allege the 26-year-old Werribee man le a 40-metre skid mark on the road and was spinning the wheels of his car and heading towards police at the time.
e man has had his car impounded for 30 days and will be summonsed to face court on careless driving charges.
As reported in last week’s Star Weekly, on September 10, two Werribee workmates lost
See our sewage site
Melbourne Water is throwing open the doors of Werribee’s Western Treatment Plant to show the public it’s more than a sewage treatment facility.
While the plant is most famous for being the foundationofMelbourne’ssewagesystemsince 1897, it’s also a renowned and internationally protected bird-watching sanctuary and worldclass environmental site.
Five free Water Watch tours of the plant on Sunday, October 12, will cover everything from how the sewage treatment system works to a guide-assisted viewing of the plant’s birds and wetlands, and a short history lesson. e tours will last between one and two hours and be led by experts in their eld.
Western Treatment Plant manager Gerard urbon said the open day was a chance for the community to get a sneak peek behind the scenes at one of our most versatile sites.
“ e Western Treatment Plant is our quiet
DISPLAYNOWOPEN
achiever,” he says. “It has many feathers in its cap that people don’t know about.
“ is year, we’ve introduced a new tour, from waste to resources, which focuses on the many ways we’re looking at waste as a valued resource, not only treating and using the water, but collecting gas for energy production and using solids for fertiliser.
“ e site already generates enough energy from bio-gases to make it self-su cient and now we’re trialling an Australian- rst project to use algae to treat sewage and generate energy.”
To register for the tours, visit: melbournewater.com.au/openday
Water Watch co-ordinators Richard Akers and Courtney Deans at a conservation pond. (Shawn Smits)
‘‘ They’re also endangering other road users and pedestrians ’’ - Graeme Crouch
their vehicles for a month a er being nabbed travelling at more than double the speed limit on Industrial Avenue.
e pair, both 29, were recorded doing 109km/h in a 50km/h zone and had their vehicles impounded on-the-spot for a month.
ey will face court on speed-related o ences. Wyndham highway patrol’s Acting Sergeant Graeme Crouch said the community was “fed up” with hoons terrorising the streets.
“Sadly, some people still think it’s alright to drive in a foolish and dangerous manner,” he said.
“Not only are these drivers endangering themselves, they’re also endangering other road users and pedestrians.”
“It’s time they started taking responsibility for their actions, because we won’t go easy on them.”
Expressions of Interest (Regular bookings) NOW OPEN
As a rapidly growing and changing municipality, Wyndham City Council is focussing on its neighbourhoods to help build a sense of place and community connection. Community Facilities offer great opportunities to support this through local gatherings, programs and activities.
We now invite you to submit your application to book Council Community Facilities in 2015.
EOI (Regular booking applications) close: Friday 17th October 2014 at 5pm
For more information see Councils website: www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/ residents/community/venuesforhire or attend one of the following information sessions.
11am-12pm Wyndham Vale Community Learning Centre 86 Manor Lakes Boulevard, Wyndham Vale PH: 8734 8934
Monday 13 October 2014
7pm-8pm
Kelly Park Centre 1 Synnot Street, Werribee (next to Werribee RSL) PH: 9742 0867 or 9742 0817
Please note: Applications for Casual bookings for 2015 will be open on December 1st, 2014, once regular bookings are confirmed.
www.wyndham.vic.gov.au
FROM THE ARCHIVES
40 years ago September 25, 1974
Werribee Shire ratepayers face a large increase in their rate payout this year brought about by rising costs and wages. Phrases such as “30-40 per cent increase” and “a rate of 23 cents” were used at Monday night’s council meeting, indicating the increase needed to contribute to the shire’s works program at a reasonable scale.
30 years ago September 26, 1984
e Premier John Cain came to the west last week and gave business a boost. He guaranteed that “special trades”, astheyaretobecomeknown, will have the right to continue in the Laverton North area.
Laura Michell looks back through the pages of our predecessor, the Werribee Banner
20 years ago September 21, 1994
e Werribee Tigers are con dent they will be part of a new state league that will start next season. e Tigers’ general manager Greg Welsh predicted that the club would be named among eight Victorian Football Association sides in the new league.
10 years ago September 22, 2004
A Hoppers Crossing family whose son died a er being hit by a car driven by a tourist driving on the wrong side of the road has expressed disgust at the court outcome. e driver, a professional ice hockey player from Germany, was ned $3000 and suspended from having an Australian driver’s licence for 12 months.
The Back to Earth Initiative recycles your green waste, creating valuable compost to help farms, gardens and community green spaces bloom.
Now we’re giving you the opportunity to help your local school, kindergarten, community space or environmental project do the same, with a $5000 garden makeover.
Support your favourite project and vote by Sunday 5 October at backtoearth.vic.gov.au
MWM019B/VOTE
NEWSTAGERELEASE ENQUIRENOW
All aglow for Diwali
Bollywood dancers will light up Presidents Park next month for Wyndham’s annual Diwali festival.
e festival of lights will be held at the Wyndham Vale park on October 18.
that the “world is one family” by including all cultural groups.
Artistic director Archana Koorthy said the colourful event would feature performances by Bollywood, ballet and classical Indian dancers, as well as jazz, salsa, rock and Bhangra bands and singers from across the western suburbs.
Visitors can sample di erent cuisines from around the world. e festival will close with a reworks display.
Ms Koorthy said Diwali was one of India’s most popular festivals. She said the aim of Wyndham Diwali was to promote the message
“Wyndham’s cultural diversity is recognised and celebrated as one of the city’s greatest assets, contributing to growth and enriching the life of our community on so many di erent levels,” Ms Koorthy said. “ is colourful event is intended to be a platform for locals to showcase their incredible talents. is year’s festival of lights will feature some of India’s leading dancers and musicians who now call Wyndham and surrounding areas their home.”
For more details about the festival, visit www.wyndhamdiwali.org.au.
Laura Michell
•
•
•
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• Waterfront blocks available
• Point Cook’s biggest blocks
Bollywood dancers warm up for Wyndham’s festival of lights. (Joe Mastroianni)
It’s School Holiday Fun!
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Mane event delights
Australia’s best riders and their horses descended on Werribee Park last week for the Australian Showjumping Championships.
More than 450 riders competed in the four-day event at the national equestrian centre where the prize pool topped $70,000. Seeking a share of it were riders vying for the Australian senior, junior and young rider titles, speed championship and national teams’ title.
Werribee’s Georgia Moodie, 15, competing with her horse Sanskrit Park Serene, rode in the 80cm, 90cm and 95cm open class competitions. While she didn’t win any of
her categories, Georgia was pleased with her results because she had to change horses just days before the championships.
“[My horse] went well considering I’d had her for only a week,” she said.
Georgia took up horse riding aged six and has been showjumping for two years.
Equestrian Victoria chief executive Greg Pratt said this year’s event was one of the biggest and best yet. He said an exceptionally talented pool of horses and riders provided spectators with an outstanding show.
It was the all-weather bowling green that rst interested Bob and Joan, who recently moved into their new home at Palm Lake Resort Truganina.
Both agreed they were on a winner when they attended one of the resort’s regular open days and were impressed by the bowling facility, the fully equipped gymnasium, pool, library, crafts and much more.
The couple put down a $1000 deposit on their new home soon after.
Bob is secretary of Metro-West Bowls Region, which includes 21 bowling clubs from Port Melbourne to Werribee and Melton. Palm Lake Resort Truganina is the newest member of the region.
“We have met our friendly neighbours and shared a chat and coffee with new friends,” Bob says.
“We’d looked at other resorts and nothing even closely compared to what Palm Lake offers.”
Joan agrees.
“It was a big thing for us to know our grandchildren were able to come and visit and stay over with us,” she says.
“They have already been in and shared a few laughs over a game of table tennis in the clubhouse.
“We’re very happy we made the move.”
Palm Lake Resort Truganina provides affordable luxury living designed for active mature-age adults looking for a lifestyle change. The resort offers an indoor heated pool and spa, luxurious air-conditioned 60-seat cinema, nine-hole minigolf, darts, pool, snooker in the fully equipped
and much more.
There are no entry fees and no stamp duty when buying into Palm Lake Resort Truganina. A low fortnightly site fee covers all council rates, garbage disposal and unlimited use of all the resort’s facilities.
Homes start from $310,000 and buyers keep 100 per cent of their capital gain. Rental assistance may be available for those who qualify through Centrelink or Veterans Affairs. Stage three is selling fast with two- and threebedroom designs to choose from.
Palm Lake Resort at 7 Taronga Road, Truganina. Open seven days for tours. Inquiries: 1800 686 096 or www.palmlakeresort.com.au.
Charlton Room, bocci, aquarobics
Festival of life
Older Wyndham residents are being invited to join the celebrations for next month’s Victorian Seniors Festival.
Senior residents will be front and centre as the community acknowledges them for their contributions to society.
This year’s festival theme is ‘taking good care of yourself’.
The core program of activities runs from October 5 to 12
Free metropolitan and regional public transport will be available to Seniors Card holders.
Statewide highlights of this year’s festival include:
• A festival celebration day;
• Royal District Nursing Service festival hub;
• State Trustees country concert series;
• Lifeview concert series; and
• Melbourne Town Hall concerts.
Seniors are being encouraged to discover new ways to have a good time by being part of the festival’s many events and activities. Whatever your passion – the arts, sport, touring, learning or meeting new people – there’s something for everyone, with free and low cost events being held across Victoria.
Seniors Card holders can also enjoy free V/Line travel on October 7, 8, 9, 11 and 12.
Festival sponsors and community partners include the City of Melbourne, Lifeview Residential Care, State Trustees and RDNS. There are more than 1000 events scheduled, so be sure to check the calendar online.
More festival details are available online at www.seniorsonline.vic.gov.au.
Shadowfax shines
Shadowfax was chief among horses in J.R.R. Tolkien’s classic The Lord of the Rings, so it’s a tting name and symbol for a winery in the heart of the equestrian centre of Werribee.
Shadowfax is a boutique set-up in Werribee Park, dedicated to creating quality, handcrafted wines that express the characteristics of the vineyards in which the grapes are grown.
The winery produces 11,000 cases of premium wine a year.
Shadowfax wines include sauvignon blanc, pinot gris, chardonnay, pinot noir and shiraz as well as a selection of very limited, singlevineyard wines.
Shadowfax winemaker Matt Harrop has a strong focus on regionality, with most fruit sourced and hand-harvested from Werribee vineyards and small-scale vignerons in the Adelaide Hills, Macedon and Geelong.
“Each and every vineyard has its own distinct characteristics and produces grapes of only the highest quality,” Matt says.
Visitors are offered the chance to taste wines, purchase from the cellar door, enjoy a delicious
lunch in the restaurant or take a stroll through the picturesque surrounds. Live music is played every Saturday and Sunday during lunch. Visitors can tour the underground barrel hall – a cavern where all Shadowfax’s barrels are stored – to soak up the atmosphere, savour the aromas of maturing wines and learn more about the art of winemaking.
Shadowfax is the perfect venue for more intimate and informal wedding receptions, corporate events, birthday parties and Christmas functions.
Resident chef Ben D’Arcy, renowned for his love of wood- red cooking, uses only the nest and freshest local produce as well as hand-picked vegetables and herbs from Shadowfax’s kitchen garden.
For evening events, the gardens are illuminated and candles are lit to create a warm and elegant setting for you.
Shadowfax Wines is at K Road, Werribee. Its cellar door is open seven days a week, 11am-5pm, while the restaurant opens from noon-3pm weekdays and from noon-
Girls & Boys Aged
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
WANT YOUR EVENT LISTED? Community Calendar is made available free of charge to not-for-pro t 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.
Green team
Grab your gardening gloves, a hat and sunscreen and head to Skeleton Creek on Sunday for a community planting day and afternoon tea. Meet at Carshalton Court, Hoppers Crossing at 1pm.
■ 9315 8072
Weird science
Join Professor Brains and explore the wonders of science and the secrets of absorbent polymers, deep sea divers, static electricity and suction on Wednesday, October 1 from 11.30am at Wyndham Vale Community Learning Centre, 86 Manor Lakes Boulevard, Wyndham Vale. Collect your free tickets from the centre. ■ 8734 8934 or wyndhamvaleclc@ wyndham.vic.gov.au
Walk on the wild side
Hear about animals from the people who know them best at Werribee Open Range Zoo these school holidays. The zoo holds Meet the Keepers sessions, where keepers discuss the animals in their care and the conservation work being done to protect them for future generations. Sessions run daily between 10.45am and 3.45pm. Free with zoo entry. Adults $30.80, children free during school holidays.
Celebrate Wyndham
Head to the civic centre on Sunday, October 12 to celebrate Wyndham’s 150th anniversary. Activities will include horse
and carriage rides, old-fashioned games, live entertainment and a heritage walking tour. From 10am to 3pm.
■ Email, dianna.tiatto@wyndham.vic.gov.au
Sigley concert
Radio and TV personality Ernie Sigley will perform at Wyndham Cultural Centre at 3pm on Sunday. Tickets: $14.
■ 8734 6000 or www.wyncc.com.au
Garage sale trail
Bargain hunters can hit the streets of Wyndham on Saturday, October 25 for a day of simultaneous garage sales. The city is taking part in a national event to give households and community groups a chance to declutter and raise money.
■ www.garagesaletrail.com.au
Charity fun day
Help raise money for Breast Cancer Network Australia during a fun day at Wyndham Civic Centre on Sunday, October26 from 11am. The event is part of a Point Cook Motorcycle Club charity ride involving more than 500 riders.
■ www.pinkribbonride.com.au
Enjoy a day on the rink
Why not give lawn bowls a go? Social games are held at Werribee Bowls Club on Wednesdays and Saturdays. The club offers social or full memberships, with activities including bingo at 7pm Thursdays.
■ www.werribeebowlsclub.com
Dear Resident
Spring is the traditional community event time. From school fetes, to community centre open days, to annual picnics, presentation nights and AGM’s; community groups are very active at this time of the year.
I regularly post notifications of local events on my Facebook page. These postings usually generate lots of interest.
If you are involved in a community organisation and would like me to promote a local event please don’t hesitate to send the information through to joanne.ryan.mp@aph.gov.au or call my office on 03 9742 5800. I am also happy to advertise community events in my shopfront window in Synnot St, Werribee.
Don’t forget to follow me on Facebook www.facebook.com/ joanneryanlalor to get the latest in local news and opinion.
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Joanne Ryan MP
(F)$3,958.00, (G)$4,958.00, (H)$4,977.60, (I)$6,330.00, (J)$9,398.00 and balloon of (A)$2,298.00, (B)$5,198.00, (C)$3,150.00, (D)$3,198.00, (E)$3,798.00, (F)$3,958.00, (G)$4,958.00, (H)$4,977.60, (I)$6,330.00, (J)$9,398.00. Total amount payable over the term (A)$15,598.20, (B)$33,043.60,
POINT COOK 17 Daydream Drive, 3030
The product of a joint venture between owner and builder, this impeccably built house has been lavished with attention to detail. From kerb-side gardens to a stylish interior, this is a property for a discerning buyer, especially one who appreciates a top cul-de-sac location: around the corner from Alamanda College, close to Sanctuary Lakes shopping centre, childcare and schools, and within easy reach of walking tracks, parks and Soho shopping centre now under construction. Four bedrooms include the main with retreat space, tted walk-in robe and sleek en suite with twin vanity basins. A fully set up theatre room and a family-meals zone make up the living areas, while the lovely kitchen has a bold red splashback, return island bench below feature pendants, abundant cupboards and a 900mm gas cooker. Roman and privacy blinds, bamboo oorboards, ducted heating, split-system, integrated outdoor room and double garage are other notable features. Sweeney Estate Agents:
WYNDHAM VALE 8 Lollipop Drive, 3024
Harcourts Wyndham City: 9741 9000 Price: Contact agent Private sale
This double-storey house in a sought-after spot can arguably claim to have one of the best entertainment/relaxation set-ups to be found and will appeal in equal measure to executives and bigger families. Along with a dedicated theatre room with six automatic recliners (and option to buy ceiling-mounted projector, screen and surround-sound system), there’s a hard-to-beat outdoor entertainment complex of about 135 square metres featuring a spa room (6-10 people spa), resort-style lanai, laser light system, fog machine, sound system, LED solar lights, barbecue area with stools, and an in-ground solar-heated, salt-chlorinated swimming pool. Along with a study (or fth bedroom), there are four bedrooms upstairs, the main with en suite and separate parents’ retreat. A bathroom and living space are also on this level. Family and dining areas surround the kitchen which has a Miele wall oven, Westinghouse ceramic cooktop and a dishwasher. A second driveway allows caravan/boat entry to the backyard and there’s space left over to build a man-cave, subject to council approval.
211
With a neighbouring property already taking advantage of development permission, the scene is set for this one to do likewise, subject to council approval. On a block of about 553 square metres, the residence could also be extended which would add considerable value but, as is, it’s tailor-made for a retiree or canny investor. In a cul-de-sac, within a minute of Princes Freeway access, around the corner from a kindergarten and school and close to Laverton railway station, Skeleton Creek reserve and Central Avenue shops, the property has plenty going for it if its compact size is seen as an advantage. It resembles a unit in layout, with entry
(under a pergola) immediately into a tiled kitchen-meals area, with a carpeted sitting area in the same space; this is warmed by a highly effective old-school gas heater, and there’s a split-system for year-round comfort. The bijou kitchen has a return island bench, topped with laminate in soft green (a decor colour used often), and a freestanding gas cooker.
Off the sitting area, the main bedroom has an adjoining dressing room (or study/ nursery) with a three-door wardrobe. The other bedroom down a hallway has a three-door wardrobe, ceiling fan and split-system. Across the way, the bathroom has a heat lamp and a walk-in shower
with disabled rails. At hall’s end, there’s a good-sized laundry with enclosed toilet. A concrete driveway heads under a carport to the backyard where there’s a large storage shed. The yard is partially pebbled and has a lawn area de ned by trimmed box hedges, and garden beds run along the fences. A small, shadecloth-covered pergola, which needs a bit of attention, is the spot for a barbecue. If great location and value-adding potential rings your ding, this is one to get the bidding card ready at auction to snag the prize.
Carole Levy
ALTONA MEADOWS 51 Ailsa Street, 3028
Harcourts Wyndham City
Point Cook 7 Maidenhair Drive
Simply stunning, you will enjoy four generous sized bedrooms, master with walk in robe, and full ensuite that opens to your own private courtyard, open plan living including central kitchen with ample storage, stone benchtops, Fisher and Paykel 900mm stainless steel appliances, two drawer dishwasher, double oven, huge refrigerator space with plumbing and butlers pantry, decked al fresco including spa, zoned refrigerated cooling and ducted heating.
Michelle Chick
M 0416 007 949 E michelle.chick@harcourts.com.au
Harcourts Wyndham City
Hoppers Crossing 37 Matlock Street
Matlock Marvel
This home comprises of 2 living areas, 3 bedrooms, main with ensuite and wir.Kitchen is light and airy with a breakfast bar, leading to a second living area.Outside you step onto a large covered entertaining area, spacious lawned area with a shed, fenced off children’s playground and immaculately landscaped private & spa.This property benefits from ducted heating and cooling, 2 car garage with rear roller access.
For Sale $395,000
Open Saturday 12:15pm-12:45pm View www.harcourts.com.au/VWC5366
Jay Radbourne
P 03 9741 9000 M 0422 280 465 E jay.radbourne@harcourts.com.au
Harcourts Wyndham City
Wyndham Vale
8 Greenwich Close
The Perfect Family Home With 2 Oversize Garages!!!
This 3 bedroom plus study, contains stunning kitchen,separate dining/ living,family & meals area, Master bedroom with ensuite & WIR,a further two bedrooms feature bir’s and share large family bathroom.
For Sale Price by Negotiation $470,000$509,000
Open Saturday 12:30-1:00pm View www.harcourts.com.au/VWC5372
Michelle Chick M 0416 007 949
E michelle.chick@harcourts.com.au
Nicole Occhibove
M 0438 578 275
E nicole.o@harcourts.com.au
Harcourts Wyndham City
Werribee
4 Anembo Court
5 Bedrooms, 3 Bathrooms, 90 Steps To The River
This 5 bedroom,3 bathroom house set on a massive block of land offers spacious living areas, 5 bedrooms, master with WIR and ensuite. The kitchen features ample bench and cupboards, and meals area lead to the rumpus and games area.Outdoor is low maintenance with an outdoor spa& double garage.
For Sale Price on Application
View www.harcourts.com.au/VWC5354
Michelle Chick M 0416 007 949
E michelle.chick@harcourts.com.au
Nicole Occhibove
M 0438 578 275
E nicole.o@harcourts.com.au
Harcourts Wyndham City
Harcourts Wyndham City 175A Watton Street Werribee
Offering 3 bedrooms, the master with WIR and private ensuite. A central bathroom & separate toilet for convenience.Low maintenance front and back gardens, double garage. This property is ideal for the first home buyer, the downsizer or an ideal addition to your investment portfolio.
For Sale By Negotiation View www.harcourts.com.au/VWC5368
Open Saturday 12:00-12:30pm
Michelle Chick & Jay Radbourne
M 0416 007 949 P 03 9741 9000 M 0422 280 465
Ave
Style, Lifestyle Appeal And Cleverness Design.
This stylish property comprises 4 bedrooms,master with wir,ensuite,study area & french doors opening onto private retreat.3 further bedrooms with birs. Gourmet kitchen with free standing oven,spacious living and dining areas leading to gardens, decking area and pergola.Also featuring a large double remote garage with rear access to backyard, ducted heating, split system air-conditioning, and built in surround sound system.
For Sale By Negotiation View www.harcourts.com.au/VWC5348 Open Saturday 11:30-12:00pm
Michelle Chick & Nicole Occhibove M 0416 007 949 M 0438 578 275
Werribee 5 Goulburn Court
The Choice Is Yours....Live In, Rent Out Or Renovate
Comprising of 3 bedrooms,master with ensuite & bir’s, large family bathroom,spacious laundry and vast living area with cathedral ceilings, open plan modern kitchen, meals and second living area.The extensive driveway leads to a double garage with gated side access through to the light filled entertaining area with raised decking & low maintenance garden
For Sale $379,000 View www.harcourts.com.au/VWC5347
Open Saturday 11:00-11:30am 3 2 2 Storrington Stunner...
James Matina & Jay Radbourne
P 03 9741 9000 M 0422 860 545 P 03 9741 9000 M 0422 280 465 E james.matina@harcourts.com.au E jay.radbourne@harcourts.com.au Harcourts Wyndham City
On approx 569m² allotment with the original home on the land. Consisting of 3 bedrooms with BIR’s and WIR, 1 bathroom, working kitchen area with a free standing stainless steel oven & stove, meals area and a good size living room. The residence also features a workshop and shed with rear access to the backyard, wall heater and x2 split system air conditioners. So rare to find a home at such an affordable price, cheaper than paying rent.
For Sale $279,000 View www.harcourts.com.au/VWC5345
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
Truganina 2/9 Swinburne Court
Tarneit 46 Thomas Carr Drive
Hoppers Crossing 28 Storrington
Family Charm And Character With A Bungalow!!
Comprising
and
Michelle Chick M 0416 007 949 E michelle.chick@harcourts.com.au Harcourts Wyndham City For Sale By Negotiation View www.harcourts.com.au/VWC5292
For Sale $630,000-$660,000 View www.harcourts.com.au/VWC5294
Expectations!
This beautifully presented 3 bedrooms plus study home situated in the Cambridge estate has everything that you could want.This home has a 2 car garage with backyard access,2 bathrooms including ensuite for main bedroom with walk in robe.
Great sized alfresco area and a short walk to Werribee plaza, schools and public transport.
For Sale $379,000 View www.harcourts.com.au/VWC5284
Open Saturday 11:00-11:30am
Bedim Taip & Jay Radbourne P 03 9741 9000 M 0432 639 041 P 03 9741 9000 M 0422 280 465
E bedim.taip@harcourts.com.au E jay.radbourne@harcourts.com.au
Harcourts Wyndham City
Wyndham Vale 8 Lollypop Drive
Hoppers
Harcourts Wyndham City
175A Watton Street Werribee
´Court Location In The Heart Of Point Cook´
This stunning home comprises of 3 bedrooms, master with wir and ensuite. Remaining 2 bedrooms benefit from bir. An open plan family meals and modern kitchen with stone bench tops and 900mm oven, a low maintenance manicured front and rear gardens, 1 and half car garage with remote and rear roller door. The home also benefits from ducted heating, split system cooling and security alarm system.
For Sale $397,000 View www.harcourts.com.au/VWC5283
Open Saturday 10:30-11:00
Jay Radbourne
P 03 9741 9000 M 0422 280 465
E jay.radbourne@harcourts.com.au
Big Block, Big Home, Big On Entertainment.
2 22
This generous family home is positioned on 938m2 block (approx) in a central location in the heart of Hoppers Crossing.just a few minutes from the shops, train station plus walking distance to Bellbridge primary school
Offering 3 large bedrooms, master with ensuite and walk in robes , a dedicated study, formal living room, a large open plan family meals and timber kitchen, and entertaining area.
For Sale Price by negotiation $430,000-$460,000 View www.harcourts.com.au/VWC4986
Open Saturday 11:30-12:00pm
Jay Radbourne
P 03 9741 9000 M 0422 280 465
E jay.radbourne@harcourts.com.au Harcourts Wyndham City
Catering for every occasion,the open plan layout incorporates:A well
Master bedroom has WIR,two further great sized bedrooms are complete with BIRs.This home has ducted heating, split system cooling and internal access to garage,home theatre,& study
For Sale Price by Negotiation $579,000 - $609,000 View www.harcourts.com.au/VWC5277
Michelle Chick M 0416 007 949 E michelle.chick@harcourts.com.au
Claremont Park Family Home Tarneit 53 Papillon Parade
22
Benefiting from the facilities located within the estate, and close to the new train station under construction in Tarneit, a choice of schools and within a short drive to the Werribee Plaza. In brief the home is on a 553m2 block (approx) and comprises of 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, modern open plan kitchen meals and family, double garage and side gated access to the rear yard.
For Sale $349,000-$369,000 View www.harcourts.com.au/VWC4993
Jay Radbourne P 03 9741 9000 M 0422 280 465 E jay.radbourne@harcourts.com.au
Robert FabrettoP: 97486333 M: 0418377535 E: robert@benlor.com.au
Sophisticated Porter Davis Prestige - Fit For A King!
shopping
Werribee 35 Westleigh Drive
Family-Sized Westleigh Gardens Splendour With Great Side Access On 1000m2!
Here’s your chance to embrace this superb opportunity to spoil the family with something for everyone! With four great sized bedrooms and the master not only being downstairs but it also offers a walk-in robe and separate ensuite and boasts private courtyard access too! A formal lounge is perfect for entertaining with a built-in bar and inset TV recess, while there is a separate formal dining which is currently used as a reader’s retreat. The open plan main living entails a solid Tasmanian Oak timber kitchen that has been finished with upmarket and updated appliances including dishwasher. A huge meals and family room adjoins, that also entails gas log heating, while zoned slab heating and split system cooling are also on offer. A huge separate study is on offer while there is also yet another living/rumpus room upstairs. The double sized garage is great for the cars while the paved huge side access is ideal for that caravan or boat. With a huge backyard still on offer complete with established gardens and a rain water tank the kids will also be free to roam and explore. Space for all, great quality throughout and a superb location all combining to give you this wonderful opportunity!
A Pot Of Gold In Nantilla!
Opportunities like this don’t come too often with a whopping 1059m2 approximately allotment with amazing subdivision potential (Subject to Council Approval). Build multiple units/townhouses or renovate and extend the existing solid 3 bedroom home positioned beautifully in a stunning established street with matured surroundings and right in the heart of Werribee’s south side. Presenting an ensuite and walk-in robe to the master bedroom, separate lounge, good sized kitchen meals area, lovely timber kitchen with stone bench tops, gas heating, pergola area and a double oversized garage/workshop. These properties are rare to come up for sale in such an exceptional location on this size land, Watton Street cafés, restaurants, Werribee CBD all within minutes, easy freeway access and Werribee Mansion, Werribee South beach, Wyndham Harbour only a short 10 minute drive away.
Resort Style Retirement Living
On offer is a beautiful unit in a tight-knit friendly community, comprising 2 BRs with BIRs, central bathroom & open plan living layout, perfect for your retirement. The kitchen is fitted with SS appliances & a dishwasher. Appointments include ducted heating, reverse cycle split system, ceiling fans, solar panels & floating floors throughout. Outdoors, a secure lock-up carport & low maintenance garden area. With village amenities inc lawn bowls area, spa, gym & more, this home is ready for you to secure at an affordable price. Private Sale $230,000 - $245,000
Family Sized Tarneit Treasure
Perfectly situated in the heart of the ever expanding and already bustling Tarneit precinct of Wyndham, this superb family home comprises 3 BRs, master with WIRs & ensuite, separate study/nursery, formal lounge, dining room, a large laminate kitchen adjoining meals room & a 2nd family/living room. Ducted heating is on offer while outdoors the cars will be happy in the double garage with auto & internal access. Entertain in style from the great sized pergola complete with decking & all weather blinds.
Werribee 18 Nantilla Crescent
Stunning Derrimut Heath Residence
This gorgeous residence located in one ofWyndham’s superior locations comprises 3 bedrooms, master with a chic ensuite & fitted WIR, formal lounge, tiled 2nd living & meals overlooked by the laminate kitchen with SS appliances including dishwasher. Features ducted heating & RC split system cooling, downlights & high ceilings. The modern rendered façade is highlighted by the established manicured gardens whilst in the rear courtyard there is access to the garage, low maintenance paving & water feature!
Your Choice Of 3 Keogh Homes You
Splendour Centrally Positioned! This is the perfect family home for a first or 2nd home buyer, astute investor, situated in central Hoppers Crossing within walking distance to schools, public transport,
3
A/Cs, dishwasher, sec system, shed, double remote garage with rear access & a lovely stencilled concreted area for entertaining.
Pleasenote-durationofopenhomesare 30minutesunlessspecifiedotherwise, photoid required PointCook 1/25 Tom Roberts Parade For Sale Inspect Saturday@11:00am AN EASY LIFESTYLE
room.Thekitchenhasstonebenchtops, 900mmBlancooven , dishwasher, glass splashbackandwalkinpantry.5 star energyrating,10solarpanelson a 66c/ kwfeedtarrifuntil2024,WOW!!Large alfrescoarealeadingto a goodsizeyard with3000Lwatertank,gardenshed & a sprinklersystem.Zoned refrigeration 422 Truganina 49 Toritta Way
This 4 bedroomplusstudymansionwill suitthegrowingfamilythatneedsspace.
3 separatelargelivingareas, a very serviceablekitchenmealsareacomplete withdishwasher
Werribee
11PurchasStreet
BigRear Yard & AffordableLiving
This 3 bedroomhomeiswellpresentedin a primelocationbetweenthe WerribeePlaza andtrainstation. Features a greatopenplanwithformal lounge,adjoiningmealsand a bright spaciouskitchen. Reversecyclesplitsystemforheating & cooling.Outdoorentertainingpergolais pavedandoverlooksthespacious rearyard.
ForSale $285,000-$305,000
View Saturday11.45-12.15pm
AdrianMcEvoy 0404499034
Werribee/HoppersCrossing 97485888
2/229HeathsRoad(opp.Plaza)
Werribee Unit1,90BallanRoad
LowMaintenance.StylishLiving
Sittingon a 215m2(approx.)blockishome to a greatsized 2 bedroomunit. Offeringanopenplankitchenwithstainless steelappliancesincludingdishwasher, meals areaand a spaciousfamily room
Featuresincludeductedheatingandsplit systemcooling,highceilings,tiledwalkway& downlights. A lockupgaragewith remote andinternalaccess,lowmaintenancefront
Comprisingof 2 spaciousbedrooms,and a largebathroom.Separateloungewithgas heatingand a greatsizekitchenwithnew appliances.
Thediningarealeadsoutto a greatsize outdoorarea,perfectforthoseanimallovers. There is a singlegarageandmassivefront driveway, withample roomforthecars.All ofthisin a peacefulcourtlocation,walking
ForSale $260,000-$289,000
View Saturday11.15-11.45am
BrandonChangtime 0411683438
Werribee/HoppersCrossing
97485888
2/229HeathsRoad(opp.Plaza)
31 3
HoppersCrossing 56BaggottDr
Paradiseinyourownbackyard.
Thehomeitselfhasbeen renovatedwith 3 bedrooms,stylishbathroom, a spacious lounge, a modern kitchen & dishwasher & stonewaterfallbench,ductedheatingand totopitalloff,wehave a grandioseupstairs rumpusorstudio.
Offering 3 bigbedrooms,walkthrough bathroom,builtins,separatelivingareas, modern kitchen,heating & cooling.
Lowmaintenance rearyard and a lockup garage.
ForSale $289,000-$299,000
View Saturday10.30-11am
AdrianMcEvoy 0404499034
Werribee/HoppersCrossing 97485888
2/229HeathsRoad(opp.Plaza)
What a greatfeelingtojustmovein andsettledownwithout a worryabout renovating.Thehomeconsistingof 3 bedroomshasfeaturessuchasducted heating,alarmsystem,dishwasher 900mm oven(stainlesssteel)andanoutdoorspa under a greatpergola,idealforentertaining. Seton a cornerlocationandwith 2 car accommodation,itisidealas a firsthome
A wonderfullydressedHamlyncottagesituatedin a quietcourtlocationoffersplenty ofextrasandsurprisepackagesthroughout.Presentingthreefittedbedrooms,lovely hostesskitchenandanopenplanarrangementoflounge,familyandmealsareas. Appointmentsincludegasheater, gasductedheating,evaporativecooling, 9 foot ceilings,double remotegaragewithinternalanddrivethroughaccessplus a fantastic allweatherpergolaoverlooking a goodsizedyard.Currentlytenantedon a periodic lease,there are optionsforanon-goingandsecure investmentor a wonderfulplaceto occupy Inspectionsare sure toimpress!
• Both lots prime productive undulating country • Magnificent future home sites (S.T.C.A)
‘‘East View’’ & ‘‘North Park’’ situated in a tightly held and capital appreciating region, Ideal for cattle, sheep, horses, cropping and all farming pursuits. 15 Mins Ring Road, 20 Mins Geelong (Bay & Beaches), 30 Mins Surf Coast, 30 Mins Avalon Airport, 70 Mins Melbourne CBD and International Airport.
Inspection: Strictly by appointment with agent.
Ken Drysdale 0409 195 470, Elders Geelong 03 5225 5000 Web Id 6972078
VALE - ANAKIE 155 Staughton Vale Road
SANCTUARYLAKES 45/9GREGNORMANDRIVE
Aninvestmentopportunityforthosewanting a hasslefree,lowmaintenancetownhouse withmonthlyincomefromtenantQuestServicedApartments returningapproximately $17,000.00 a yearwith 5 furthertermseachof 5 years.Thisdoublestorey residence features 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms,fullyequippedkitchen,stylishfurnishings,fully equippedlaundry, largeterraceandgreatviewoff themainbedroombalcony, splitair conditioningandheatingunits.Thecomplexisonly a shortstrolltoSanctuaryLakes Resort’s facilitiesincludingpool,gymnasium,tenniscourtsand restaurants.Ifyouare lookingfor a setandforgetinvestmentpropertywithexcellent returnsandincreasesthen looknofurtherthanthisfantasticaffordableopportunity
We haveonofferthismodern3bedroombrickveneervillaunitina blockoftwowithbuilt-in-robestoall3bedrooms,openplanlivingto thekitchen/mealsareaadjoiningthelounge room,ductedheating, air-conditioning, rearyardandlockupgarage.Arrangeforyour inspectiontoday!
Data is king and the more you have the better informed you are. That’s why Domain has added more property data to its listings so you can gain a better understanding of the value of property in your area. You can now see past sales activity, local sales and the suburb’s performance over the last 8 years. The best part is, it’s free!
Visit Domain today and take a look for yourself. domain.com.au
P. DiNATALE
Perfectopportunityto renovateintoafirsthome ownersdreamorpurchaseasaninvestment.Close topublictransport, Werribeeplaza,schools&day carecentre,greatlocation fora youngfamilyoran astuteinvestor.
You know how it is – you see Christmas decorations in the department stores and it shocks you into thinking: Is Christmas coming soon? Surely not!
Well, if you’re thinking of selling your home and being moved into a new home before Christmas, you’d better get your ice skates on. Because, for you, Christmas truly is ‘just around the corner’. You see, selling a home is not part of the Christmas Shopping! It takes time to get everything arranged. From choosing an agent to finding a buyer to finding another home, it can take you many weeks to get the happiest result for yourself.
At Brian Mark Real Estate, we help families move happily all the time. If you want to be moved by Christmas this year – and you’d like an idea of what your property may sell for today or as close to Christmas as possible, please call us now for:
CHAIN SAW Stihl, good condition.$50.Phone87423368.
COFFEE GRINDER For Turkish coffee, 10hp, 3 pace, grinds 100kg per hour also coffee grinder for Turkish. All new 1hp 3 pace $11,400. Ring Rex 0417 165466.
COFFEE ROASTING Machine, commerical, new, roast 25kg coffee, bottle or natural gas $14,250.RingRex0417165466.
COUCH, 3 seater with two arm chairs, leather EC, beige colour. $250.0408010386.
ELECTRIC SHEARS, good condition.$50.Phone87423368.
an enthusiastic work ethic, and are willing to help others, Please send your resume to: projecteng@wellcross.com.au
Hoppers Crossing coasts to title glory
It was raining goals for Hoppers Crossing in a 5-1 thrashing of Surf Coast on the nal match day of its title-winning Football Federation Victoria men’s state league 4 west season.
e encounter was over as a contest by half-time, with the Reds holding a 3-0 lead.
Four Reds scored goals, including a double to winger Zia Sherzai.
e Smart brothers, Alister and Steven, and KhalilAssaadweretheothersonthescoresheet.
e Reds completed their magical season with a record of 19 wins, two draws and a loss to nish a whopping 16 points ahead of second-placed Melbourne City.
Hoppers Crossing will take part in the state league 4 nals as the west group entrant.
e Reds will square o with Up eld in the semi- nal at Arndell Park Reserve on Friday from8pm. ewinnerwilladvancetofaceeither St Kilda City or Croydon City Arrows in the overall nal.
Point Cook had a positive end to the season with a 2-0 victory over Maribyrnong Greens on the road at Skinner Reserve.
e Jets nished ninth on the ladder with 30 points.
In state league 5 west, Truganina Hornets earned promotion to the fourth tier a er a 3-1 win over Lara in the nal round.
Two goals to Chris Scavo and one to Arthur Chelidonis ensured a top-two nish for the Hornets and promotion for the rst time.
ey missed out on the title by goal di erence a er Keilor Wolves were held to a 2-2 draw at home against third-placed Spring Hills.
e Wolves nished on 34 points with a plus-14 goal di erence. While the Hornets had the same points, their goal di erence was a mere two worse o on plus-12.
Tigers win name game
By Lance Jenkinson
At its peak in the 1990s, Hoppers Crossing Junior Basketball Club was one of the most successful in the Werribee Basketball Association, with more than 40 teams. ose numbers dipped over time and were down to an alarmingly low level two years ago. e proud club was at a crossroads.
Tigers president Mario Costa said that with team numbers almost down to 10, the club’s prospects were looking shaky.
“If we didn’t rebuild … we would’ve gone bust at some point,” he said.
“We were losing girls. ey were moving on to other clubs because we only had one or two teams in the di erent age groups. If you don’t have a certain number of teams, you’re not going to survive in the long term and that’s something I’ve been trying to work on.”
FastforwardtothisseasonandtheTigersare getting back to prominence with 32 teams.
A number of factors are behind the club’s regrowth. e area’s population is growing and interest in basketball is at its highest point in Wyndham, with local son Dante Exum having been dra ed into the NBA.
Exum,whogothisstartatdomesticlevelwith St Peters, is a rising star at the Utah Jazz and playing as a combo guard for the Australian Boomers.
e stability provided by a long-time head coach in Stuart McKay and president (Costa) is important, but so, too, is having a loyal band of volunteers.
ere is also a somewhat more trivial reason behindthegrowthanditcanbefound rstlyon Google and secondly on Costa’s voice mail a er a long day at work.
“I think it’s because we’ve got the advantage over all the other clubs of having the suburb in our name,” he said. “When people look up the website and see the suburb, we come up rst. You can’t complain about that.”
Costa praised McKay for his loyalty. “He’s dedicating his time to coaching not just one team but two – and you don’t get that very o en I wouldn’t think,” Costa said.
e loyalty at the Tigers stretches to the playing ranks. In the boys teams, Tristan Kewish (377), Jarryd Langdon (367) and Aden McKay (342) have the 400-game milestones in their sights.
Among the girls, Shannon Jacobs (378), who
■ What a great win to the Bulldogs in the VFL grand nal at Etihad Stadium on Sunday. It certainly vindicates the club’s decision to stand alone and has certainly given the Bulldogs a high note to nish the season. Time will tell what effect this success has on the playing group, but I remember the Geelong VFL premiership side of 2002 which included Hunt, Kelly, Bartel, Johnson, Ablett and Chapman that became the backbone of three AFL premierships. Bulldogs’ coach Chris Maple is a great bloke and I’m happy to see him be successful. Juggling full-time players with part-time players is a dif cult job. What was really good at the weekend was to see the red, white and blue supporters out in force.
■ AFL grand nal week in Melbourne is always buzzing and full of activities. Williamstown CYMS is holding its second annual Grand Final Eve Spectacular on Friday and the speakers are top shelf. Peter ‘Crackers’ Keenan heads the bill with Mark Harvey and Australia’s best female cricketer, Meg Lanning. Lanning has an interesting year ahead as she has signed to be part of the Channel 9 commentary team for the coming summer. The Spectacular will be held on the oval at Fearon Reserve Williamstown from noon. Last-minute bookings can be made by calling Matt Wynd on 0410 636 057. I’m the MC and am looking forward to getting the real story behind Mark Harvey’s time in Fremantle.
■ Hoppers Crossing Sports Club is holding its annual Paul Hollingsworth Memorial Golf Day at Werribee Park Golf Club on Friday, October 3. This is the ninth year of the event and all proceeds go to Reclink Australia. There are heaps of prizes and it is always a good day. Cost is $65 per player which includes green fees, lunch, a showbag and after-game nibbles. For bookings, call Darren Hellmann, 0413 607 645.
started two years a er the boys, has the chance to break the club’s games record of 460.
e best local players generally lter into the Werribee Devils’ ranks.
e biggest name to come out of the Tigers in recent times is Shannon McCready, who is playing college basketball in the US but returns to play with the Devils in the Big V men’s championship.
“ e Werribee Basketball Association relies on domestic clubs to develop the talent at the basic level,” Costa said.
“ e Devils take them to that next step, the more elite level and to the higher competitions.
“ ere’s di erent stages and we are part of that development of getting kids to a standard where they can play a bit more competitively.”
■ Get ready for the Moonee Valley Melee as former world boxing champion Barry Michael presents a big ght night at Moonee Valley Racecourse on Saturday, October 11. The main bout is between Zac Dunn and Istvan Zeller. Michael is very excited about Dunn, whose professional record is 14 ghts for 14 wins, 12 by knockout. Dunn and Zeller are ghting for the WBC Eurasian Super middleweight title. Doors open at 6.15pm, rst ght at 7pm. Call Sue on 0410 506 435.
Kevin Hillier
Any news, let me know on email kevin@howdypartnersmedia.com.au. Follow me on Twitter @KevinHillier, plus check out the Howdy Partners Media website as well.
Lance Jenkinson Joe Nave is taken down in an ugly tackle.
(Damian Visentini)
Jarryd Langdon, Tristan Kewish, Stuart McKay (coach), Aden McKay and Shannon Jacobs are loyal servants of the Hoppers Crossing Tigers. (Damian Visentini)
Shannon Jacobs 378 Tristan Kewish 377 Jarryd Langdon 367 Aden McKay 342 Club record is 460 games
Race to 400 games
Giant step forward for Werribee
By Lance Jenkinson
Werribee Giants could have walked the easy path and remained in the second tier of women’s baseball in Victoria like so many other premiership clubs before them.
e Giants won last season’s division 2 title and felt it was incumbent on them to take a stand and move up a division to test themselves against the best in the state.
Giants coach Tony Culph understands the challenges ahead but said that for the club to progress and for women’s baseball to progress, it was a no-brainer to accept Baseball Victoria’s invitation to play in the top ight.
“Over the past ve years the competition has letothersideswindivision2andjuststaydown there,” Culph said.
“When we won last year, we felt things had to change, so we voted for us to go up.
“We might not win too many games, but it’s for the better of the competition that whoever wins division 2 should go up.
“Other clubs have gotten away with it for too long. We hope to be competitive.”
Culph has a long association coaching women’s baseball.
He was the inaugural coach of the Giants and was at the helm of the Victorian side for eight years.
He wants to see further growth in the Giants women’s ranks and has entered a side in the third division. To ensure it gets up and running, he needs more numbers and is urging potential players to contact the club.
“We’re right on the borderline,” he said. “If we can nd some more interested people we can guarantee the second team.
“It’s a good bunch of girls and they all get along pretty well. ey accept any new players and young players.”
SCOREBOARD
FOOTBALL VFL GRAND FINAL
FOOTSCRAY 4.2 7.4 10.7 16.13 (109)
BOXHILLHAWKS 4.2 7.3 11.7 13.9 (87)
Goals: Footscray: L Jones 5 T Dickson 2 J Redpath
2 T Campbell M Fogarty J Grant C Howard D Pearce J Tutt T Young. Box Hill: J Sicily 3 M Hallahan 2 B Ross 2 S Collins S Grimley W Hartung L Lowden D Willsmore A Woodward. Best: Footscray: B Goodes L Jong L Jones T Campbell M Fogarty S Darley. Box Hill: M Hallahan J Sicily W Hartung A Litherland B Ross S Iles. Norm Goss medal: B Goodes (Footscray). At Etihad Stadium. TAC CUP GRAND FINAL
OAKLEIGH 2.2 9.5 13.10 17.15 (117)
CALDERCANNONS 5.1 6.4 8.4 11.4 (70)
Goals: Oakleigh: J De Goey 3 D Houston 3 D Moore 2 L Waddell 2 M Rivett 2 T McLean 2 M Jackson J Halsall L Kinsella. Calder: T Miller 3 J Foster 2 H Kerbatieh 2 R Smith P Ahern N O’Kearney M Goodyear Best: Oakleigh: D McKenzie M Pittonet D Moore T McLean K Answerth H Beasley. Calder: J Latham P Ahern M Goodyear T Miller R O’Brien B Allan. Best on ground: T McLean (Oakleigh). At Etihad Stadium. NORTHERN FL
DIV1GRANDFINALSENIOR
GREENSBOROUGH 3.1 8.8 10.9 13.14 (92)
HEIDELBERG 2.5 3.7 5.13 6.15 (51)
Goals: Greensborough: R Boyden 3 L Stanton 2 T Stead 2 J Johnston 2 J Grubb J Rogers A Stellas T Bongetti. Heidelberg: J Hodgkin B Harvey J Treloar C Lewis W Knight P Bower Best: Greensborough: M Hooper J Rogers D Mc Linden R Boyden C Clark L Stanton. Heidelberg: A Crispe J Hodgkin B Kerton J Kennedy P Bower C Gaylard. Reserves
e Giants top side will be up against it. It will be facing the cream of Victoria’s crop and it will start the season without one of the side’s stars, Marita Wyatt.
Wyatt was the Giants’ best hitter last summer, batting at more than .700, and plays in the important shortstop position.
A persistent back injury will keep her out of the round one line-up.
“She’snotgoingtostarttheseasonandmight not even come back a er Christmas,” Culph said. “ at will put a hole in our line-up.”
Barker 2 S Tregear Best: Norwood: L Williams J Holmes J Wynn J Gould S Hill M Aver. Balwyn: R Gilchrist M O’Regan T Gilchrist S Tregear J Weatherald S Cross.
VERMONT 4.3 6.3
Goals: Vermont: A Froud 4 T Carmody 2 P Chadwick 2 M Sonsie L Wale-Buxton T Bird J Smith. Rowville: R McEwin 4 B Bronsgeest. Best: Vermont: J Shambrook A Ellis J Smith A Froud N Mendes A Hackett. Rowville: R McEwin C Burns G Pears B Kernick M Davey P McEwin.
U-19
EASTRINGWOOD 2.3 3.6 5.9 10.11 (71)
BLACKBURN 1.0 2.2 5.5 8.8 (56)
Goals: East Ringwood: D Butera 2 D Belo 2 Z
Klibingaitis 2 C Dineen L Whelan A Condello S Lowson. Blackburn: K Dove 2 L Adey J Harkins P Stow L Batchelor D Smith L Patterson. Best: East Ringwood: J Weightman M Thomsen D Belo D Butera C Devlin R Lord. Blackburn: M Dawson J Hanley
K Dove A Willett-Fatnowna L Patterson C Bentley VAFA PREMIER
GRANDFINAL
UNIBLACKS 2.3 2.4 12.9 13.12 (90)
COLLEGIANS 0.1 3.1 4.2 7.4 (46)
Goals: University Blacks: J Blake 2 H Lahy 2 A Robbins 2 A Pattison T Kruse J Laurie H Lacey T
Napier A Locke S Weekley. Collegians: S Taft 3 N Corp 2 J Kamener H Croft.
Best: University Blacks: B Mahon H Lahy A Pitt S Weekley A Pattison S Thomas. Collegians: C Hylton J Eimutis S Hibbins N Ries T Penberthy C Holst.
PREMIERRESERVE
UNIBLACKS 1.1 3.4 4.4 9.9 (63)
OLDXAVERIANS 3.8 4.9 7.10 7.11 (53)
Goals: University Blacks: J Foster 4 S Butler 2 J Crameri S Myers S Flight. Old Xaverians: M Cain 2
L Keith M Douglas M Margin C Beetham J Anderson.
Best: University Blacks: J Quaile J Foster S Flight T Storer L Devine T Howie. Old Xaverians: J Douglas M Cain M Douglas D Prowse D Harangozo C Margin.
PREMIERTHIRDS
OLDXAVERIANS 2.5 6.11 11.13 17.16 (118)
0.2 2.2 5.5 5.5 (35)
Old Xaverians: T Daniher 5 H Buckley 3 C
3 B Corcoran
Nikki Durovic will take on the bulk of Wyatt’s duties.
She is almost as e ective in the batters box and is capable of trading her out eld position for one closer to the diamond.
“She’s a good player and has played in the Victorian provincial team for a couple of seasons,” Culph said. e most important defensive duo will be pitcher Emma Pastowski and catcher Janine Culph.
Pastowski was one of the hardest working
4 B O’Hara 3 J Mitchell 2 D Polo L Hampton A Carey A O’hAilpin. Yarrawonga: B Fevola 6 K Pettifer 2 M Gorman C Ednie B Seymour J O’Brien. Best: Albury: L Hampton D Polo L Daly B O’Hara J Mackie L Packer. Yarrawonga: C Hargreaves M McMillan C Ednie M Gorman B Fevola X Leslie. PENINSULA FRANKSTON 3.3 6.8 7.11 8.15 (63) MORNINGTON 1.2 2.5 5.5 8.9 (57) Goals: Frankston YCW: B Tellis 3 A Barry R Morris K Hutchison B Buckley D Carroll. Mornington: M Williams 3 D McDowell A Franchina W Miller E Bitters J Calder Best: Frankston YCW: A Eames A Barry B Barry B Tellis L Wallace C Nankervis. Mornington: R Smith D Nolan W Miller M Gay E Bitters M Williams.
YARRAVALLEYMOUNTAINDISTRICT Div 1
WOORIYALLOCK 2.3 4.5 9.8 10.13 (73) WANDIN 2.0 5.0 6.0 9.5 (59) Goals: Woori Yallock: B Monkhorst 4 B Sneddon 3 J Matthews 2 K McAuley. Wandin: K Talevski 5 S Young T Hinds E Hocking B Dickinson. Best: Woori Yallock: B Sneddon B Monkhorst J Matthews M Batten M Bonuda D Mock. Wandin: K Talevski R Ross H Dudink J Ladner J Myers E Hocking.
COUNTRY(SUNDAY) GOULBURNVALLEY: Prelim f: Shepparton Swans 18.9 d Kyabram 9.13. Res: Benalla 9.10 d Kyabram 7.13. U-18: Seymour 10.13 d Echuca 3.10. MARYBOROUGHCASTLEMAINE: Grand f: Navarre 16.21 d Carisbrook 9.8. Res: Carisbrook 10.9 d Lexton 7.7. U-17.5: Navarre 11.7 d Carisbrook 3.6. U-15: Carisbrook 11.15 d Trentham 4.2. U-12: Newstead 4.1 d Campbells Creek 1.2. OVENS&MURRAY: Grand f: Albury Tigers 13.13
YCW 8.15 d Mornington 8.9. Res: Mt Eliza 11.8 d Frankston YCW 10.13. U-18: Mt Eliza 13.13 d Mornington 6.9. WESTERNBORDER: Grand f: North Gambier 17.13
pitchers in the competition last season. She churned out a truck load of innings with incredible e ciency and was also the grand nal pitcher.
“Everything revolves around her and we’ve got to hope the elders back her up,” Culph said. “She pitches nearly every game, throws strikes and doesn’t walk too many.” e new summer league baseball season will start on October 4 with the Giants on their home patch at President’s Park facing Doncaster.
NEPEAN: Grand f: Sorrento 15.10 bt Crib Point 5.12. Res: Somerville 13.8 bt Devon Meadows 10.6. U-18: Rosebud 13.10 bt Mt Eliza 5.7.
NORTHCENTRAL: Grand f: U-13’s: St Arnaud 9.5 bt
Birchip-Watchem 3.8. WESTERN BORDER: Grand f: Res: North Gambier 18.15 bt South Gambier 4.10. U-17.5: North Gambier 10.10 bt South Gambier 9.6. U-15: East Gambier 9.9 bt South Gambier 4.1. U-13: South Gambier 2.6 bt West Gambier 2.5. WIMMERA: Grand f: Horsham 12.10 bt Horsham Saints 11.10. Res: Dimboola 8.8 bt Horsham Saints 5.11. U-17: Horsham 11.9 bt Stawell 8.8. U-14: Horsham Saints 7.10 bt Stawell 8.3.
YARRAVALLEYMOUNTAINDISTRICT: Grand f: Div 1: Res: Upwey Tecoma 7.11 bt Belgrave 6.6. U-18: Healesville 9.7 bt Olinda Ferny Creek 3.12. SHOOTING
GRANTVILLEat300yds: Tgt Rifle: D Brewster 149.24 G Doig 144.8 T Donaldson 134.7. F-class: J Eland 178.18 K Eland 178.16 J Catchpole 177.15 P Marum 175.12 P McCarthy 174.14 P Kelly 171.11. LILYDALEat300yds: Tgt Rifle: RJ Tapps 124.10 P Maher 123.18 RR Tapps 120.12 T Sunderland 120.09 M Osborne 111.05 K Sunderland 109.09. F-class: P Murphy 147.13. Hcp: P Maher 156.72.
CROQUET
VICTORIANC’SHIP:Day2Finals: R Fletcher (Lismore) bt S Forster (Geelong Belmont) 26TP-9 and 26TP-0, R Kirk (Golden Square) bt D Wren (Essendon) 22-21, R Fletcher bt D Wren 26TP-0, S Forster bt R Kirk 26TP2. Finalplacings: R Fletcher 1, S Forster 2, R Kirk 3, D Wren 4. Plate: G Bushill (Geelong Belmont) bt J Wilson (Brunswick) 26-13, J Wilson bt C Grant (Ringwood) 26-8, E Miller (Geelong Belmont) bt B Reither (Ballarat Alexandra) 26-8, G Bushill bt G Fahey (MCC) 26-9, C Grant bt E Miller 26-9, G Fahey
It’s batter up for Crystal Mollica and her Werribee Giants teammates with the 2014 season fast approaching. (Damian Visentini)
Key defender delighted but doggone tired
You only had to look at the smile on the face of Footscray backman Mark Austin to realise what it meant to be a VFL premiership player.
“It’s the best feeling in the world,” Austin said.
“It’s a great win with a great bunch of blokes, super coach and all of the assistants.
“At the moment, I’m a bit too buggered to really soak it all up.”
Austin was exhausted a er going toe-to-toe for 120 minutes with the VFL’s leading goalkicker, Sam Grimley.
Detonating Grimley’s impact on the match was critical to the Bulldogs’ chances. Austinkepthimtojustonegoal–apositional win for the Dogs.
“It’s good to keep him quiet for the day,” the 25-year-old key defender said.
“He had two shots and kicked one goal, so I was pretty happy with that.
“It was a big help from the boys up the eld, because the ball wasn’t coming in so good.” e Bulldogs’ defenders held rm all game. ey cut o space in front of the leading Hawks forwards, took a number of intercept marks and spoiled when needed.
eonlydownfallwassomeuncharacteristic skill errors on the last line, resulting in a handful of turnover goals.
“If we didn’t turn it over so much, we would’ve won the game more comfortably,” Austin conceded.
“It’sjustthepressureofthedayandtheywere putting on enormous pressure and forcing us into turnovers.”
JamesSicilywasthemostdangerousBoxHill forward, with a three-goal break-out game. e Western Jets graduate has shown enough to suggest he might crack it for
Able big man stands tall
Tom Campbell got the chance to experience the best of both worlds this season.
Hespentthe rsthalfoftheyear ghting for a spot in the Western Bulldogs’ AFL side and eventually sealed a berth as a key forward and second ruckman behind Will Minson.
Once the AFL team was eliminated from the nals race, it was back to the VFL for the versatile tall, where he played a key role in Footscray’s rst premiership win in the state league competition since 1924.
‘‘To come back and play in the VFL, especially when we were in such great form, and to go and win the premiership was just a great experience,” he said. Campbell was able to dictate terms in the grand nal a er the Hawks decided not to play Ben McEvoy.
Campbell was the dominant big man on the ground, be it in the ruck or as a resting forward, working in tandem with Ayce Cordy.
Campbell said the VFL success would foster a winning culture at the kennel.
Lance Jenkinson
Bulldogs nally have their day
By Lance Jenkinson
Footscray has moved to equal third on the all-time VFA/VFL premiership list a er claiming its 10th ag with a three-peat.
e last time the Bulldogs were in the state league competition was in 1924, when they won back-to-back ags under captain-coach Con McCarthy.
e Bulldogs were promoted to the then VFL ranks for the 1925 season.
OnSunday,theyouth-drivenBulldogsde ed the preseason critics – who tipped they would be lucky to even make the nals – by beating the Box Hill Hawks in front of an impressively large crowd of 23,816 at Etihad Stadium.
e grand nal win ended a long premiership drought for Bulldogs fans, whose last senior success came in the big league in 1954 when Footscray thrashed Melbourne at the MCG.
e Dogs have won night premierships and even AFL reserves premierships along the way. But this one meant a bit more for a club starved of the ultimate success on that last Saturday in September.
It was celebrated with gusto by a crowd predominantly in the Bulldogs’ red, white and blue, one that was late arriving due to stadium operators being caught unawares of the big turnout.
Footscray coach Chris Maple was “ecstatic” to accept the premiership cup on behalf of those who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make a premiership a reality in the club’s rst season back in the competition.
“I’m really proud of the boys, really proud of the club and all our sta who made it happen,” Maple said.
“Starting up from scratch was a massive job, and to come out and get the ag in the rst year back was just unbelievable.”
From day one, Maple has not shied away from the fact that he’s using the VFL as a development tool for the Western Bulldogs to begin their march up the AFL ladder.
But the longer the season wore on, the more insatiable the thirst became for the Bulldogs to make it an unforgettable season in the VFL.
ey won 15 of their last 16 games to go from a speculative nals chance to a bona de premiership contender. e players never once took their eyes o the major prize.
“Every AFL-listed player obviously wants to play AFL footy, but their buy-in [to the VFL side] was fantastic,” Maple said.
“We were really proud of their attitude to playing VFL. It was good for their development to play in high-pressure nals games.”
ere were a number of hard luck stories for the Bulldogs.
Co-captains Lukas Markovic and Nick Lower missed the grand nal, but, like true leaders, didn’t let their disappointment show.
Lower was ruled out with a shoulder injury, while Markovic was the odd man out in a side laden with tall defenders. Jase Perkins and Anthony Barry were also sti to miss out.
Fletcher Roberts, Josh Prudden, Matt Fuller and Clay Smith missed through injury.
But for every hard luck story, there was a happy one.
e Norm Goss Medal for best a eld went to mid elder Brett Goodes, who was outstanding with his ferocity at the contests and deep lefoot kicking.
“He was awesome wasn’t he?” Maple said.
“Goodsey’s a hard, tough, great leader – he’s just been fantastic for the group.”
Liam Jones booted ve goals, including two late, while onballer Lin Jong backed up a two-year contract extension with a scintillating performance.
Maple was thrilled for the Bulldogs army which turned out in force to make it a memorable occasion.
“For them to come out and see the youth of the Bulldogs moving forward and developing well was great,” he said. “We’re on the move.”
For a grand nal photo gallery, visit www.maribyrnong.starweekly.com.au.
Premiership clubs: Port Melbourne (16), Williamstown (13), Footscray, Sandringham (10), Geelong (9), Coburg, Oakleigh, North Melbourne (6), Springvale/Casey, Prahran, Northcote, South Melbourne (5), Preston/Northern, Essendon (4), Dandenong, Brunswick, North Ballarat (3), Box Hill, Moorabbin, Yarraville, Essendon Association, Richmond, Carlton (2), Werribee, Geelong West, Waverley, Brighton, West Melbourne, Collingwood, Fitzroy (1).
Footscray co-captains Jordan Russell, Lukas Markovic and Nick Lower help coach Chris Maple hoist the VFL premiership cup. (Shawn Smits)
Footscray
Footscray defender Mark Austin lets out his joy at the full-time siren. (Shawn Smits)
senior involvement with Hawthorn in the AFL next season.
e other former Jets players involved in the VFL grand nal, mid elders Brent Prismall and Michael Fogarty, were on the winning side.
Lance Jenkinson
Youth powers Footscray to ag
Lance Jenkinson dissects Sunday’s VFL grand nal to tell us how the premiership was won.
Firstquarter: e feeling out process lasted all of six minutes before Box Hill’s Liston Trophy winner Alex Woodward broke through for the rst goal. Woodward lit the spark for an entertaining quarter of football that would see the sides split eight goals.
Footscray’s rst major came through bearded big man Tom Campbell from a strong overhead mark in what would be a precursor to a dominant aerial game from the ruckman.
e goal-for-goal continued when Box Hill’s second goal through Dallas Willsmore was countered by Footscray’s Jack Redpath – both on the back of contested marks.
Footscray’s rst term was blighted by skill errors and Hawk forward James Sicily needed no second invitation when a sloppy kick-in landed in his arms and he sent it back with interest. Sicily kicked a second two minutes later to give the Hawks a two-goal advantage.
Michael Fogarty, a Bulldogs homegrown product out of WRFL club Spotswood, halved the de cit when he marked from a kick-in and redhomefromthesetshot,thendefenderTom Young slotted a team-li ing goal on the run to have the scoreboard tied up at quarter-time.
Quarter-time: Footscray 4.2 (26), Box Hill 4.2(26)
Second quarter: Footscray started the second term like a house on re with a Jarrad Grant soccer goal seconds into the quarter giving his side the lead for the rst time in the match. With the half-back line providing plenty of drive out of defence and youngster Fogarty impactinginthemid eld,theBulldogsenjoyed a period of sustained attack.
e rewards would come through goals to Jason Tutt and Liam Jones. By the 14-minute marktheDogshadopenedupan18-pointlead.
e skill errors that hurt the Bulldogs in the rst term crept in late in the second, and none hurt more so than Mitch Jensen’s howler from the last line of defence, which saw Mitch Hallahan pounce to goal for the Hawks.
e Hawks booted the last two goals of the quarter through Hallahan and full-forward Sam Grimley to cut the margin to one point.
Half-time: Footscray 7.4 (46), Box Hill 7.3(45)
ird quarter: Box Hill maintained the rage early in the third term, with Luke Lowden wrenching back the lead with a 50-metre bomb that momentarily took the wind out of the sails of the massive Footscray following.
e Hawks were not done yet, with Ben Ross making it ve goals in a row when he pounced on yet another kick-in error to stretch the lead to two goals.
Star Weekly’s ve stars
Brett Goodes (Footscray): Set the tone early in the game with his endeavour at the contest and never let up en route to the
Norm Goss Medal for best a eld.
Lin Jong (Footscray): So often the player breaking away from a pack situation to turn a 50-50 ball into a Bulldogs’ forward thrust.
Liam Jones (Footscray): When the big moments came, the athletic forward stood up, booting ve goals to be the best forward on the ground.
James Sicily (Box Hill): Worked tirelessly across half-forward to create an option and was his side’s most damaging player close to home.
Mitch Hallahan (Box Hill): When Box Hill was surging, so often it was Hallahan who was the creator.
Footscray needed to arrest the slide and Daniel Pearce took it upon himself to rise three-deep for a nice contested mark and went back and kicked truly.
e Bulldogs nally got back into their groove,usingthefullwidthoftheplayingarena to set up Tory Dickson for a goal that trimmed the de cit to two.
en Jones soared over a Hawks defender to mark and goal, putting the Dogs four points in front in time-on.
Box Hill owned the red time period with goals to Sam Collins and Billy Hartung.
Hartung’s was one of the goals of the year –he gathered the ball on centre wing, took three bounces and steadied to put the Hawks out to a seven-point lead.
Fourth quarter: When Box Hill extended its lead to 18 points through Sicily and Ross six minutes into the last term, there were serious doubts over whether the Bulldogs had it in them to mount another comeback.
e Hawks were running on top of the ground, despite a limited bench rotation.
e message went out to the Bulldogs players to get the ball forward by any means.
At the ensuing centre bounce a er the Ross goal, the Dogs cleared through a long forward 50 entry. Dickson was able to turn onto his preferredrightfoottogoalthankstoashepherd from teammate Jason Johannisen. It breathed life into the players for one last push.
Jones kicked a third two minutes later and scores were tied a er Redpath laid a ferocious
tackle on Hawks defender Ryan Schoenmakers and goaled from the resulting free.
Christian Howard put the Bulldogs six points in front when he delicately goaled from a set shot on a tight angle.
Box Hill would not roll over, generating a number of frenzied forward thrusts.
Withmostplayersoutontheirfeet,youngster
Will Hayes bobbed up to play an important late role for the Dogs, including an 80-metre lead
to mark a clearing kick out of defence that had a settling e ect on his side when the Hawks threatened. Moments later, the Bulldogs got their backbreaking goal when Jones booted his fourth to stretch the lead to 13 at the 27-minute mark. Jones put the icing on the sweetest of cakes with a h goal.
Full-time: Footscray 16.13 (109), Box Hill Hawks13.9(87).
Speedy onballer relishes team’s stability
Lin Jong has emerged as a hot prospect a er a stellar nals series with Footscray.
e Bulldogs were not sleeping on the talented Jong, rewarding his breakout season with a two-year contract extension.
Jong showed why the Dogs are so keen on him with a game-breaking performance in Sunday’s VFL grand nal triumph.
“I was so stoked to be able to stay with the club and happy they’ve had that faith in me to become a good player,” Jong said.
“I’m just trying to pay them back now.”
Jong arrived at the kennel from TAC Cup side Oakleigh Chargers with pick nine in the 2012 rookie dra .
From the rst day he walked through the door as a skinny kid, it was evident that he was a goer, a player willing to throw his lightly built frame in the line of re for the team.
With maturity, the 21-year-old has struck the right balance of when to use his body in the contest and when to sit on the fringe of the pack, where he can use his devastating burst to good e ect.
e onballer reads the play well in congestion. When the grand nal was on the lineinthelastquarter,Jongbusteditopenwith his breakneck speed from the clearances.
Jong believes he was one of the major bene ciaries of the Bulldogs’ decision to eld a standalone team in the VFL.
It’s given him more certainty of where he will be playing from week to week. And with coaches on the same wavelength as those at the AFL arm of the club, it’s been easier to absorb instructions through consistent messages.
Playing against men 100 per cent of the time is another bonus.
It has been a far cry from the time he spent with Williamstown in the AFL Victoria development league last year, which is relative wilderness for an AFL-listed player.
“ is year, I’ve been lucky enough to be playing ones without that pressure of being dropped,” he said.
“I’ve got a lot of self-con dence out of it.”
Jong was desperate to win a premiership at Etihad Stadium, having lost a TAC Cup grand nal with Oakleigh three years earlier.
From the team perspective, the preseason critics gave Footscray no chance, but Jong said the players never doubted.
“We’ve just jelled so well together this year and we all had that passion to win in the VFL.”
Footscray’s Lin Jong is one of a number of rising stars at the kennel. (Shawn Smits)
LanceJenkinson
Five-goal Footscray forward Liam Jones soars for a contested mark. (Shawn Smits)
Are you new to the area or want to make new friends? Come along and meet other people from the community. Have a cuppa, play games or bring along food or do some cooking in our kitchen. Everyone is welcome.
When: Fridays, 12pm – 2pm
Point Cook Community Learning Centre 9395 6399 pointcookclc@wyndham.vic.gov.au
WYNDHAM YOUTH SERVICES
Wyndham Youth Services will be offering youth support and youth engagement programs at Point Cook throughout Term 4, 2014. Youth from 12-17 years of age are welcome to attend any of the regular programs.
When: Tuesday 3.30pm-5pm – Youth Committee
Wednesday 4pm - 6pm – Hang out Space
Thursday 5pm - 7pm – Arts Program
Friday 3pm - 5pm – Drop In Dianne Snowden or Joanna Parker 8734 1355 dianne.snowden@wyndham.vic.gov.au
Belly dancing is a great way to improve your overall physical fitness for all fitness levels, as it gently tones and firms all major muscle groups whilst having fun moving to music.
Vanessa’s Yoga class has a combination of gentle exercise to strengthen and stretch the body. Each class includes breathing techniques, meditation and relaxation. Class is designed for the beginner to the advanced yoga student.
Happy Days Playgroup provides learning through play and exciting opportunities to connect with and receive support from other parent/caregivers who experience mental health issues.
When: Mondays, 10.30am – 12.30pm
Lisa or Audrey 9361 7000
BE WISE YOGA
Come along and enjoy Yoga stretching exercise and relaxation. Harmonise the mind and maintain a healthy body through gentle, yet powerful postures.
Is an educationally based program that provides a caring environment for children to learn and socialise, allowing parents to attend an appointment, shop or study for short periods of time. For children aged between 6 months to 5 years old.
When: Mondays, 9am – 2pm
Helen 8742 8000 enquiries@grangecommunity.org.au
WALKING GROUP
Walking Group is suitable for all ages and fitness levels, and is led by a volunteer who has a passion for walking. The Walking Group is FREE and open to anyone wanting to join the group.
Take the first step in your business career with a course designed to give you the skills and knowledge to work in an office environment. It is the perfect program if you are looking to return to the workforce.
When: Course begins in October
Wyndham Community and Education Centre 9742 4013 enquiries@wyndhamcec.org.au
WANT TO WORK IN CHILDCARE?
Wyndham CEC is the number one choice in Werribee if you are looking for a flexible and supportive environment to undertake the Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care, or the Diploma of Early Childhood Education & Care.
When: Courses begin in October
Wyndham Community and Education Centre 9742 4013 enquiries@wyndhamcec.org.au
Members of Wyndham Park Community Shed participate in a range of activities including woodworking, metal work, gardening, bike repairs, social networking and other specialist activities. The shed caters for both men and women’s groups and is open to all.
When: Mondays to Sundays
James 8742-6448
admin@wyndhamparkcc.com.au
CERTIFICATE III AND IV IN DISABILITY OR AGED CARE
Discover your new career path and gain your qualifications to work in a dynamic and growing industry. Graduates will receive a nationally accredited qualification in Aged Care, Disability or Home and Community Care.
When: To be confirmed
Debbi Hope 5222-3377 rto@encompass-cs.org.au
WYNDHAM VALE COMMUNITY LEARNING CENTRE
86 Manor Lakes Blvd, Wyndham Vale 8734 8934
wyndhamvaleclc@wyndham.vic.gov.au
GET CRAFTY – CRAFT PROGRAM *NEW*
Get Crafty is a great way to meet other community members and share your knowledge and experience. Bring along the craft project you are currently working on or try your hand at something new. Open to all ages.
When: Mondays, 10am – 12pm Wyndham Vale Community Learning Centre 8734 8934 wyndhamvaleclc@wyndham.vic.gov.au
GROOVE MAKERS DANCE
Fun social dance sessions for all ages from beginners to advanced. Learn to dance many different styles including Latin, Ballroom, New Vogue, Street Latin, Irish and Contemporary.
When: Mondays – Kids 5pm. Teen/Adult Latin 6pm. Teen & adult Ballroom 7pm Felicite 0421 763 767
YERAMBOOEE COMMUNITY CENTRE
55 Maple Crescent, Hoppers Crossing 9748 9310
yerambooeecc@wyndham.vic.gov.au
3+ KINDER PROGRAMS
3+ Kinder is a high quality educational program offering a wide range of hands-on activities, to help develop each child to reach their full potential. This program is for children aged three years and over.
Playgroup provides an opportunity for children to develop learning, sharing, imagination, creativity and interaction with other children through play in a secure, relaxed atmosphere. These groups also offer families a chance to meet others within their local community.
