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COVID pain relived By Goya Dmytryshchak Newport mother-of-two Kimberly Hanrahan has undergone an experimental plasma treatment as she recovers from COVID-19. Ms Hanrahan, 48, said she contracted the virus after a cleaner came to her home. The owner of the cleaning company called to advise that her son had tested positive at school. Ms Hanrahan said her husband, Dave, had a sore throat and underwent a COVID-19 test. After five days, his test came back positive. Ms Hanrahan was then tested with her eight-year-old twin boys. “I was positive and they were negative, thank goodness,” she said. “Then, I got all the usual sort of symptoms – a sore throat and a lack of smell and taste – but then I got really quite poorly … really severe migraines and body aches and pains and back aches.” She called Altona North Respiratory Clinic and said, ‘It’s day 11, is this normal?’ Ms Hanrahan said she was told it was normal. “I called my doctor on the Wednesday because I was in so much pain. I hadn’t slept properly and he gave me some Panadeine Forte, which was great,” she said. “On the Thursday, the DHHS called me … I got quite upset and said ‘I feel like I can’t talk to you properly, I’ve got a real shortness of breath, I don’t feel very well’. “He just said, ‘I’m going to put the phone down, I’m going to call your husband and get him to call an ambulance for you’. “I was avoiding going to hospital. I didn’t want to go if my symptoms were just normal. “You just don’t know, how bad is bad enough to go to hospital? “I hadn’t had a bath for three days because I’d just been in bed so poorly. “The ambulance came and my blood oxygen was pretty low. They were worried about … blood not getting to your organs and causing damage.” Ms Hanrahan was admitted to Footscray Hospital and “zipped up” in a room. “I spent the next 11 days in hospital,” Ms Hanrahan said. “I went in on August 13 … went into ICU the next day but then was on oxygen for the whole time until I came out of ICU, and then for a

Kimberly Hanrahan is now recovering at home. (Joe Mastroianni) 215844_05 Inset: Ms Hanrahan while being treated at hospital. (Supplied)

couple of days after that. Thankfully I didn’t have to go on a ventilator. “I was very lucky that I was strong enough to be able to just get assistance with the oxygen but then not have to intubate me, put me to sleep and breathe, which was fantastic. “I was in ICU for six days. “The nurses, everybody, was amazing – they put themselves at risk every day. “A lot of them that I spoke to had actually come out of what they were doing … and then got retrained to come into ICU.”

Ms Hanrahan said each day she was given a mask to enable her to breathe. “Essentially, this mask that covers your whole face, it’s very tight around your head so you can’t get any air in it and then it’s like a wind tunnel so it’s like air being pushed down into your lungs because my lungs had collapsed,” she said. “That was five times a day for a couple of hours a day.” After talking to Star Weekly for 10 minutes, Ms Hanrahan said she had shortness of breath.

“But compared to how I was, this feels fine,” she said. Ms Hanrahan said she had a transfusion of what’s known as “convalescent plasma”, which contains antibodies from people who have recovered from COVID-19. “I did get the symptoms back again when I was home … headache and sore throat and runny nose came back again,’ she said. “I don’t know yet if there’s been any long term damage to my organs. We don’t know for sure – it’s new for everybody.”

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2 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 23 September, 2020

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Virus tally lowest in months By Benjamin Millar Active COVID-19 cases in the inner-west have plunged to their lowest levels in months as current cases remaining in Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay drop to 48. The results come as strict lockdown measures across Melbourne are due to ease on September 28 as the state remains on track for the first step towards slowly reopening. Maribyrnong has dropped to just 13 active cases of 593 total and Hobsons Bay is down

to 35, of a total 488. Footscray Hospital had 10 actives cases reported on Monday, out of a total of 16. Victoria has 261 active healthcare worker cases overall, including 100 in the past week. The Department of Health and Human Services said on Monday that there were 11 new cases reported in Victoria in the previous 24 hours, the lowest daily tally since June 16, with the total number of cases now at 20,051. Six of the new cases are under investigation and five are linked to outbreaks, including

one linked to Opal Aged Care in Altona North. There were two new deaths from COVID-19 reported on Monday, including one woman in her 80s and one woman in her 100s. To date, 763 people have died from coronavirus in Victoria. The average number of cases diagnosed in the past 14 days for metropolitan Melbourne has dropped to 34.4, putting it below the threshold to meet the target for easing restrictions.

Under the “second step” from September 28, childcare will open without permits and students from kindergarten to year two and VCE students will return to face-to-face learning from the start of term four. Curfews and travel limits will remain in place but public gatherings of up to five people from two households will be permitted for up to two hours. Subject to public health advice and thresholds being met, the “third step” will begin from October 26.

Residents save popular tree

Sharon Walsh. (Joe Mastroianni). Sharon Walsh215862_01

Outdoor dining to rival New York mostly be outdoors with a patron cap. Members of the community supported traders’ calls to close part of Pier Street and the Esplanade to allow more al fresco dining. Traders liaison officer Sharon Walsh said businesses had suggested closing Pier Street between Queen and Blyth streets, and hoped to bring forward the annual summer closure of the Esplanade between Bent and Pier streets. “We are looking at anything we can do to make Pier Street vibrant, bring people back out and bring them back so they feel safe about coming out and dining out,” Ms Walsh said.

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“It’s going to be a long road back.” Traders want some of the on-street parking bays to be repurposed as parklets, with tables and chairs for outdoor dining. “That gives the traders more area to dine outdoors because that’s how it’s going to be for quite a while,” Ms Walsh said. “We’ve also asked for whatever available footpath space there is so those foodies can spread their wings.” Traders are in talks with Hobsons Bay council.

Benjamin Millar Goya Dmytryshchak 12458044-SN35-20

“Anything New York can do, Altona can do better.” So reads a hugely popular online post from Altona Village Traders Association, calling for road closures to keep restaurants and bars alive during the COVID-19 pandemic. The state government’s roadmap to easing restrictions in metropolitan Melbourne is based on the city recording a daily average of 30-50 cases by September 28 and fewer than five by late October. Cafes, restaurants and bars would then be able to reopen for onsite dining, but this would

West Footscray residents have won their fight to save a large mature gum tree from the chop. The Rupert Street gum tree was earmarked for removal after an inspection carried out by an arborist earlier this year revealed it was deteriorating due to its structure and age. Maribyrnong council said the potential for falling limbs “poses a risk to the safety of the community” and the tree needed to be removed. Tree removal notification signage was placed beneath the tree in July and surrounding properties were notified by letter. But nearby residents swung into action to protect the popular tree, launching a petition calling on the council to defer its decision. The council sought a further arborist report, which confirmed the tree had a “moderate” risk rating and a life expectancy of a further six to 10 years. The report also provided tree management recommendations including significant pruning, reducing the height of the tree by up to six metres and reducing the length of one of the main limbs growing over a nearby property. A report to the recent ordinary council meeting stated that these recommendations would enable the tree to be retained and the risk managed. “In order to retain [the tree], significant canopy modification will be required with a view to a staged removal of the tree, likely in the next five years,” it stated. “Considering this staged approach, the management of the risks associated with [the tree] are recommended to be undertaken and the tree to be monitored on a regular basis ongoing.”

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3 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 23 September, 2020

MARIBY IBYRNONG AND HOBSONS BAY ANY SYMPTOMS GET TESTED It’s important to get tested for coronavirus at the first sign of any symptom and stay home until you get your result. •

Footscray - CoHealth

•

Weekdays: 8.00am - 4.00pm

Weekdays: 9.30am - 12.30pm,

Sat: 8.00am - 1.00pm

1.30pm - 4.30pm •

•

West Footscray Bunnings -

ACL Pathology - Sunshine

•

Altona - Dorevitch

drive-through testing site

Weekdays: 8.30am - 4.00pm

Daily: 9.00am - 5.00pm

Sat: 9.00am - 12.00pm

Highpoint Shopping Centre -

•

Altona North Respiratory Clinic Weekdays: 8.00am - 12.00pm,

drive-through testing site

1.00pm - 5.00pm

Daily: 9.00am - 5.00pm •

Braybrook Hub - CoHealth Weekdays: 9.30am - 12.30pm 1.30pm - 4.30pm

•

Spotswood - 4Cyte Pathology Weekdays: 8.00am - 5.00pm Weekends: 11.00am - 2.00pm

Laverton - CoHealth Weekdays: 9.35am - 4.30pm Bookings are required at some testing locations. Opening hours subject to change. Getting tested means you keep yourself, your friends, family, workplace and your community safe. It’s not over yet.

For more details visit vic.gov.au/CORONAVIRUS Authorised and published by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne

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4 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 23 September, 2020

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Car impounded A car was detected allegedly speeding at 120km/h in a 70km/h zone of Old Geelong Road, Hoppers Crossing about 7.40pm on September 11. The vehicle was intercepted by police and the driver, a 19 year-old Seabrook man, was interviewed by officers. The man’s Honda was impounded for 30 days.

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Police executed search warrants in 11 suburbs across Melbourne, including Tarneit, Altona North, Footscray West, Kurunjang and Point Cook on August 31, as part of an investigation targeting street and youth gangs operating in the Collingwood area. Ten males aged between 17 and 20 were arrested. They were charged with a range of offences including armed robbery, handling stolen goods, unlawful assault, intentionally cause injury, affray and false imprisonment.

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Piano student Elliot Hose performs live. (Supplied)

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Music for seniors

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Tree planting spree Hobsons Bay council has adopted an Urban Forest Strategy to increase the city’s tree canopy to 30 per cent by 2040.

School holiday fun Highpoint shopping centre has launched its very first virtual school holidays program. Details: www. highpoint.com.au FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Maribyrnong & Hobsons Bay Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Hobsons Bay Music Academy is bringing joy to seniors by performing online concerts for aged care residents during the COVID-19 lockdown. Known as the ‘Music Through Time’ concert series, the Zoom performances include vocal and piano renditions of classics such as Sinatra’s My Way and Amazing Grace. Academy director Mary Matsos said the concerts had proven to be a hit, with elders tapping and singing along with students. “What children need most right now is to keep a sense of normalcy and to maintain the connection and joy that dance and music

brings,” she said. The academy’s first concert was for Marina TLC Aged Care in Altona North. When restrictions ease, the academy plans to visit residents in person and perform in the same room. In the meantime, the academy is offering online classes for budding artists interested in learning music and dance from the comfort of their own home. Details: hobsonsbaymusicacademy.com.au

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Goya Dmytryshchak

September rates payments extended to 14 October

James Turnbull* Michael Lipshutz David Hanlon Lisa Collier* Andrew Johnston* Valerie Yiannikopoulos Jessica Black Radu Catrina *Accredited Family Law Specialist

Jessica Black

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Call (03) 9397 2488 Williamstown Office 162 Ferguson Street, Williamstown Melbourne Office 552 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne www.berryfamilylaw.com.au

If you are experiencing financial hardship due to COVID-19, or require extra time to make a payment, please contact Maribyrnong City Council on 9688 0200 or via rates@maribyrnong.vic.gov.au to discuss the available payment options. Visit maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/rates for further information.

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Payment for the September 2020 rate instalment has been extended to 14 October for all ratepayers in Maribyrnong. This payment deadline has been extended automatically.

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5 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 23 September, 2020

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New Footscray learning centre By Benjamin Millar Construction could begin on a new early learning centre in Footscray next year after Maribyrnong councillors gave the green light to spending $4.5 million on the $7.5 million project. The Footscray Learning Precinct Integrated Early Learning Centre (IELC) will be built on council-owned land between Footscray City Primary School and the Bluestone Church Arts Space on Hyde Street. The centre, being built in partnership with the Victorian School Building Authority (VSBA), will include spaces for sessional kindergarten, long daycare and maternal and child health services.

‘‘

a seamless education system from early learning to adult education - report

’’

The state government has committed $3.3 million to the project, part of the Footscray Learning Precinct that includes a new junior Seddon campus of Footscray High being built nearby. The council earlier this month revealed a schematic design and cost plan ahead of detailed design and construction of the centre. It will advertise early next year seeking

expressions of interest from early years’ service providers to lease and operate the spaces. A report to council on the project noted that the proposed centre will complete the precinct “to provide a seamless education system from early learning to adult education”. “The demand modelling identifies a significant gap in the provision of both sessional kindergarten and long day childcare,” it stated. “This IELC is one of the priority facilities required to meet demand.” While final designs are yet to be completed, early designs indicate the centre could contain two maternal and child health rooms, two sessional kindergarten rooms each holding up to 33 children and a long day childcare service licenced for about 60 children.

The centre could also include a multipurpose space capable of hosting playgroups, occasional childcare, immunisations and parents’ groups. The report noticed this hub model provides families with a convenient ‘one-stop-shop’ approach whereby they can access early childhood education and care, and health and development services at the one place. “It recognises that single service and smaller facilities are becoming less attractive to service providers as the operating cost margins are too narrow,” it stated. “It is critical in establishing and maintaining engagement with vulnerable and disadvantaged families as their children move through the service system.”

Man jailed for high speed chase

The Seddon Community Action Group has urged people to lodge objections to the project. (Supplied)

‘Hybrid House’ plans blocked Plans to build a seven storey residential and commercial development to the heart of Seddon have met with stiff resistance over the project’s scale and lack of parking. The Victoria Street proposal, dubbed ‘Hybrid House’ by its proponents, would feature three street level shopfronts topped by 19 residential units. While the multi-million dollar proposal promises to bring an “environmental focus” to Melbourne’s west, it has triggered concerns about bulk, overshadowing and the decision not to include on-site parking. The architect’s statement by Grove Architecture’s Jonathan Grove states that ‘Hybrid House’ aims to promote sustainable inner city living in a convenient location.

‘‘

first in the inner west of Melbourne and will stand out by focusing on things that matter

’’

- architect statement

“Even with a number of emerging futuristic sustainable development hitting the market in recent years, this new project is the first in the inner west of Melbourne and will stand out by focusing on things that matter,” it states. “It balances between shiny eco-luxury

6 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 23 September, 2020

and utopian ecovillage ideas and provides a decent response to the global urbanisation challenge.” The project includes bike storage space, scooter and ebike charging spaces, and a rooftop garden and running track. But residents are rallying to block the proposal, which they say is too big for the site. The Seddon Community Action Group has urged people to lodge objections to the project with Maribyrnong council. Concerns have been raised around the impact on neighbourhood character, privacy, shadowing and the increased stress it would place on local infrastructure.

A man who was detected travelling at speeds of up to 230km/h in a stolen Porsche on the Western Ring Road has been sentenced to 15 months in prison. However, Murat Shomshe, 38, will only spend about a month-and-a-half behind bars, after already serving 415 days in pre-sentencing detention. County Court Judge Kevin Doyle handed down Shomshe’s sentence last month. Shomshe pleaded guilty to conduct endangering persons, theft of a motor vehicle, possessing a drug of dependence and unlicensed driving. Judge Doyle said that on January 4 last year, two police officers observed Shomshe driving a Porsche in Hoppers Crossing. The Porsche, valued at $300,000, had been reported stolen from a Tempestowe house days earlier. The officers followed the vehicle to Laverton, and called the police Air Wing to assist in tracking the Porsche. About 2.13am, the vehicle was observed by the Air Wing entering the Western Ring Road and exiting onto Ballarat Road. Judge Doyle said that in this stretch of road, Shomshe reached speeds of up to 230 kilometres per hour. “The speeds you reached in this offending were extreme,” Judge Doyle said. “By driving at extreme speed in this stolen high-performance vehicle, you showed complete disregard for the other road users, who happened to be anywhere near you in the early hours of the morning.” The vehicle continued to Deer Park, before Shomshe drove to Hillside and parked in Varna Court. Shomshe was arrested nearby, and found to be in possession of two ziplock bags containing methylamphetamine and Diazepam. Judge Doyle said that at the time, Shomeshe was subject to a two-year community corrections order. The court heard that Shomshe had a “significant criminal history” and “history of substance abuse”. In June 2016, Shomshe had been sentenced to three years’ imprisonment for reckless conduct endangering life, after he fired three bullets at a woman’s car following an argument about money owed for mechanical work. Alesha Capone

Benjamin Millar

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Mobil refinery ‘at risk’

Mobil’s Altona operations have been affected by COVID-19 border closures. (Supplied)

Mobil’s Altona refinery says the stage 4 lockdown is causing “unprecedented losses” as Viva Energy warned it could be forced to close its Geelong plant this year. One of four remaining refineries in Australia, Mobil’s Altona operations have been affected by COVID-19 border closures, flight cancellations and stay home orders. Demand for jet fuel has dropped by up to 90 per cent. A Mobil spokesman said the state government’s extended freedom of movement restrictions and subsequent prolonged reduction in fuel demand had placed unprecedented pressure on the Altona refinery. “The global pandemic has led to an oversupply in the Asia Pacific region, and together with the stage 4 restrictions, has caused Altona refinery to operate at a loss,” the spokesman said. “The recently announced extended Victorian restrictions, with low case numbers to move to COVID normal, will curtail demand for

a long and unpredictable time and makes medium-term planning very difficult.” The Altona refinery produces about half of Victoria’s refined fuel needs and employs about 350 people. Viva’s Geelong plant, which refines the other half of Victoria’s domestic petrol supply and employs 700, this month announced it risked imminent closure. The Mobil spokesman said the Altona refinery and its fuel terminals had adjusted operations earlier this year due to reduced demand. “However, while these help manage the supply-demand balance, they come at significant cost to our business,” he said. “We are actively working with the federal government on options to assist the sector through this challenging period. Mobil remains committed to supplying our customers.” Goya Dmytryshchak

Arts plan fails to save clubhouse By Goya Dmytryshchak The former clubhouse of the Victorian Deaf Angling Club in Williamstown North is set to be demolished despite a plea to turn it into an arts centre. Boatshed owner and artist, David Waters, has put forward a proposal asking Hobsons Bay council to lease the building to a group of artists for a peppercorn rent. The building is located within the Kororoit Creek Fishing Village. “As an artist, I can see the potential for this location to become a small arts centre for exhibitions and cultural events and I have a small collective of like-minded locals who are willing to put the work into making this a reality,” Mr Waters said. “A similar model, the Yarra Sculpture Gallery (in Abbotsford) has been running successfully for over 20 years, managed by the Contemporary Sculptors Association under a peppercorn rental within the City of Yarra.” Mr Waters said he believed the building “typifies the humble heritage of Williamstown” and its demolition would be a loss to the community and Victoria’s heritage. Hobsons Bay council’s corporate services director Andrew McLeod said the building’s surrounds were considered significant for the ecology and wetlands. “Following discussion with Melbourne Water, Parks Victoria and the Port of Melbourne, there has been particular interest in removing the derelict building and rehabilitating the land to its natural saltmarsh vegetation as part of the Paisley Challis Wetlands Reserve,” he said. “Some car parking will remain to support public visits to the wetland. “The former Victorian Deaf Angling Club building is a prefabricated building that is in poor condition. It does not lend itself to heritage status and is of no known historical significance.”

This humble former clubhouse could be demolished. (Supplied)

Have your say on foreshore project The state government is seeking feedback from residents and businesses to develop a $200,000 framework to improve the Williamstown foreshore. The Williamstown maritime precinct framework aims to provide long-term benefits for foreshore tenants and the local community, including commercial and recreational boaters. Foreshore tenants include yacht clubs,

commercial marinas, boatbuilders, Seaworks, ferry operators and Victoria’s Water Police. Williamstown MP Melissa Horne said the framework aimed to improve public amenity and access, stimulate growth and strengthen the local economy while recognising the ports and maritime history. “The Williamstown maritime precinct is one of Melbourne’s most iconic areas and this

framework will ensure it continues to thrive for generations to come,” she said. “We’re asking locals to have their say and provide valuable feedback on what residents and businesses want to see in this fantastic area.” A steering committee has been established to work with Hobsons Bay council and community representatives on the project.

Maritime and coastal engineering consultants, GHD, has been appointed to deliver the framework. A draft framework is expected to be released late this year for public feedback. Feedback collected will be used to develop the final framework, due for completion in early 2021. Goya Dmytryshchak

7 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 23 September, 2020

The future will bring new challenges. So we’re prepared. We’re building a modern fire and rescue service, with firefighters working together for all Victorians. Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) leads fire and rescue in Melbourne and major regional centres. We are also strengthening and supporting the CFA with new equipment, upgraded stations and better facilities – ensuring our volunteers continue to serve and protect their communities. With world-class technology and highly trained firefighters, we’re ready to meet the challenges we face today, and into the future. For more information about Fire Rescue Victoria visit frv.vic.gov.au

Fire Rescue Victoria. We’re prepared. Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne 12462381-LB39-20

8 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 23 September, 2020

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Help for self-isolating patients By Benjamin Millar A program helping high-risk COVID-positive patients to safely self-isolate is rolling out over the western and northern suburbs following a successful pilot in Footscray. Community health organisation cohealth has revealed almost 60 per cent of the 1263 people who were referred through the pilot program needed social and welfare support in the form of financial assistance, food packages, housing or drug and alcohol support in order to be able to self-isolate in a safe way.

Featuring a team of 40 GPs and nurses, the cohealth pilot program has been operating from a control centre in Footscray since early August. Social risk factors that cohealth identified among COVID-positive people during the five-week pilot included caring obligations, insecure housing, social isolation, poor language literacy, a lack of internet for online grocery shopping, and the threat of losing their jobs. Chief executive Nicole Bartholomeusz said the finding that a majority of COVID-positive patients have complex social risk factors

debunks the misconception that people are deliberately disregarding health directions. Ms Bartholomeusz said every COVID-positive person needs a personalised ‘self-isolation plan’ to reduce virus transmission and help Victoria fully emerge from its lengthy lockdown. “It’s the missing piece of the puzzle. There’s been a lot of focus on encouraging people to get tested, and issuing strict quarantining directions for those who are positive,” she said. “The only way we are going to be able to fully transition out of COVID is if we address the social inequities that prevent people from

self-isolating. Whether it be not having the financial means, the mental capacity, the social network.” Ms Bartholomeusz said ensuring everyone is able to comply with the directions is difficult when not everyone has the same social supports. “Rather than ask ‘why are they disregarding the rules?’, this model asks ‘what will help you to comply with the rules?’” The program is now being rolled out across Melbourne’s northern, western and south-western suburbs including locations in Wyndham, Brimbank, Hume and Melton.

Grant boost for arts groups

Club Managers Association state president and Yarraville Club chief executive Chris Byrne. (Damjan Janevsi) 215408_02

Clubs call for quicker reopening Victoria’s community clubs have been left to “burn and die” by the state government’s roadmap out of COVID-19 restrictions, the industry head says. The government’s roadmap to easing restrictions in metropolitan Melbourne is subject to the city recording a daily average of 30-50 cases by September 28 and fewer than five by late October. Club Managers Association of Australia state president and Yarraville Club chief executive, Chris Byrne, said the roadmap was unrealistic. The club industry closed on March 23 and a re-opening on November 23 would see businesses shut for eight months with minimal or no revenue,” he said. His association represents the not-for-profit

sector such as sporting, welfare and cultural clubs. “What we’ve been calling for is to get the industry open a lot quicker,” Mr Byrne said. “In effect, the restrictions they’ve put over our industry are that draconian, they’re that health-specific, they’re not considering the economic issues. “If you took the Victorian roadmap to reopening to NSW and Queensland, both of those states would be closed as well. “It’s now coming out that it’s the most restrictive model in the world. “We understand that the health issues are there but realistically COVID is not disappearing, it’s not going away. We need to learn to live with it and, as an industry and as

a community, we need to get places reopen, we need to get our economy reopened, we need to get back to some level of normality – what we call the COVID norm, I suppose.” Mr Byrne said he knew of a number of clubs in the local community that would not be able to reopen. “If they do reopen, they won’t be able to deliver the number of community or sporting services they used to – they just won’t have the money,” he said. “That’ll impact on the elderly, it’ll impact on the kids in sport … the longer we stay closed, the harder it is to recover and that then has a flow-on effect.”

Arts organisations will be delivered a $1.7 million boost over the next three years under Maribyrnong council’s new triennial arts funding model. The council has committed to spending $581,500 each year over the next three years, providing ongoing certainty for the 13 recipients to be able to engage in longer term project planning. The funding equates to a $300,000 annual boost in the council’s funding for the arts industry, left reeling from the heavy toll of the COVID-19 crisis. Maribyrnong based not-for-profit arts organisations invited to apply for the Triennial Arts Partner grants in July were required to submit a three-year strategic plan or program for arts, heritage or cultural activities with the local community. A report to this month’s council meeting noted that the timing of the funding is particularly significant with local arts, heritage and cultural organisations being forced to close and losing their income streams due to COVID-19. “The Triennial Arts Partner grant program … will play a vital role in the recovery of our much-loved local arts sector as we re-emerge from the pandemic, increasing creative outcomes and social cohesion in Maribyrnong,” the report stated. A panel comprising four representatives from the arts industry and council staff assessed 15 applications, making recommendations to support 13 organisations. Footscray Community Arts Centre is the major beneficiary, receiving $240,000 for each of the program’s three years. The annual funding includes $47,500 to the Women’s Circus and $40,000 each for Western Edge Youth Arts, 100 Story Building and Living Museum of the West. Snuff Puppets and L2R Dance will each recieve $39,500. Annual funding of $15,000 will go to Trocadero Arts Space, Cinespace, Footscray-Yarraville City Band, Hyde Street Youth Band, Footscray Historical Society and Wit Inc.

Goya Dmytryshchak

Working from home could become the ‘norm’ The sharp rise in the number of people working from home during Melbourne’s COVID-19 lockdown could trigger more urban sprawl and economic disparities between regions, according to a Victoria University researcher. VU’s Centre of Policy Studies (CoPS) senior research fellow Dr James Lennox, said working from home a few days a week could become the norm in many occupations, with two-thirds of surveyed Australians reporting they expected to continue the practice after the COVID-19 crisis.

Modelling on the change in working habits identified that about three in 10 Australian jobs in managerial, professional and clerical occupation groups have high potential to transition to work-from-home (WFH), meaning the distance people live from their office will become less important over time. Dr Lennox said that workers who are commuting less often will be prepared to commute further, which will change patterns of housing demand and labour supply. “Our modelling indicates people in WFH

occupations will be more likely to live further from city centres if their weekly commuting costs are lower,” he said. “The net effect is to shift housing demand outward.” The modelling predicts such a change could see a 3.6 per cent expansion of residential areas on the urban boundaries. Dr Lennox said offices will not entirely disappear, but working two, three or four days a week from home could well become the norm in many occupations. Office spaces in central business districts will therefore become

more affordable for commercial tenants and businesses, drawing more organisations to set up in central city locations. The effect of this will be to boost growth and jobs in Melbourne at the expense of other cities, towns and rural areas. “With there already being significant economic disparities between city and rural areas, and between different regions, these new trends pose a further challenge for policy-makers.” Benjamin Millar

9 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 23 September, 2020

NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Five great ways to be active – yes, even turning into courts or no through roads! Of course, it’s wise to consider the safety of your decisions. Once the timer goes off, you’ve got ten minutes to head back home. Make it a scavenger hunt: Again, this is possibly better with the kids in tow – but make your regular walk more interesting by creating a scavenger hunt. There are plenty of suitable scavenger hunt lists available through a quick internet search, or you could make your own. Even something just as simple as finding as many examples of a particular letter, a particular number or a particular colour along the way. You could even make it a competition for the kids!

As the days get longer and warmer, Melburnians have been granted two hours of exercise and recreation time outside of their property as part of the roadmap out of COVID-19 restrictions. But, if you’ve been hibernating inside during winter, what is the best way to make the most of this additional leisure time?

Start slow While it’s important to stay within a 5km radius of your home there are still plenty of great ways that you can be active around your local neighbourhood. Before you do get started, it is wise to take a quick assessment of your current physical activity levels* and aim to build up slowly, rather than aim for the full two hours if you’re just not ready. So, if you’ve already been taking full advantage of the hour outside, then build up by about 10 minutes each time. But if you’ve only been making it outside for a quick 20-minute dog walk, then aim to build on that base by five minutes each time. Make the most of your two hour time limit by warming up at home before you start and stretching once you finish. And remember to wear your mask.

Mix it up

Be active at the park: With playgrounds now open again, find an area away from others and get active with the kids. Have you ever observed children playing? They move their bodies in so many different ways – so, if it’s safe for you to do so, join in a game with your children and aim to move just like them. Flipping a coin helps break up the around the block walk. (Supplied)

walking pace (and maybe the speed of children in tow), most adults walk at a pace of about 4-6km/h. This means that you can easily do an ‘out and back’ walk of about 8-10km from your home. And that’s a lot of area to explore! Find some great walking and bike trails in your area by checking out your council’s website, or here: www.visitmelbourne.com/Things-to-do/ Outdoor-activities/Walking-and-hiking/Day-

(Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 215668

The ‘go-to’ exercise for most Melburnians during stage four seems to be walking – but do you find yourself doing the same loop each day? Boredom can definitely prevent adherence to exercise, so here are some great ways to change up your daily walk: Walking and bike trails: Depending on your

Find your local history: A quick search on your council’s website (or you may even have a local history group) will highlight the areas of interest within your 5km radius. Learning about these sites will supplement any remote learning your children are doing, or will simply help you become more aware of your own area.

Out and about Braybrook’s Tenterfield Park was abuzz last week as families emerged from their homes and enjoyed some warmer weather. Thankful parents were able to let their children loose at the park as Melbourne metropolitan’s COVID-19 restrictions eased with outdoor playgrounds, off leash dog parks and outdoor exercise equipment re-opened for use. Physical distancing and group number limits still apply as the state carefully rolls out Victoria’s roadmap out of the pandemic. Esther Lauaki

10 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 23 September, 2020

hikes-near-Melbourne. Flip a Coin: This one is probably better if you’re out and about with the kids, but flipping a coin certainly helps break up an around the block walk. Simply set a timer for about 10 minutes shorter than your anticipated exercise time and set out from home. At each intersection, flip a coin to determine a left turn or a right turn

Melburnians really do have access to some wonderful outdoor areas and a new appreciation for leisure time. So, enjoy getting out, about and active. www.theresapriorpersonaltraining.net * Seek advice from your GP or Allied Health Professional before undertaking any new exercise program.

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

FEATURE

Creative kitchens By Tara Murray Victorian’s are stepping up in the kitchen and getting creative during lockdown and a new website will make it even easier. The website, Cook Well, Eat Well, has been launched by VicHealth and Nutrition Australia to ensure Victorians are supported in making easy, affordable and nourishing meals. The launch of the website comes after a VicHealth survey revealed one in two Victorians have started meal planning during the coronavirus pandemic, while 28 per cent have been cooking more dinners as they look to save money. Of those surveyed, nearly half were doing more cooking to save money and 57 per cent said it was because they had more time to prepare meals. The site features a range of free healthy eating resources, including simple recipes and videos, for Victorians to use and for organisations to share with their communities. VicHealth chief executive Dr Sandro Demaio said the survey highlights how the pandemic is affecting the eating and spending habits of Victorians. “The coronavirus pandemic has placed enormous financial strain on many Victorians. Households are adapting by planning their meals and cooking more to save money,” Dr Demaio said. “A quick and easy meal can be made from a few simple pantry staples. Lentils are full of vitamins and minerals and can be used in dahl, burgers, soup, bolognese or salad. And rice is another key ingredient used in many delicious dishes, including fried rice, risotto or to accompany a satisfying curry.” Nutrition Australia chief executive Lucinda Hancock said Cook Well, Eat Well will help Victorians with basic cooking tips, food safety and food storage ideas. She said they had collaborated with the likes of Foodbank Victoria and the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre to help reach more people.

‘‘

Households are adapting by planning their meals and cooking more - Sandro Demaio

’’

A new website is helping Victorians get creative in the kitchen during lockdown. (iStock)

Here’s two of the recipes that are included on the new website:

Lentil Dahl (Serves four)

Ingredients

Fritters

Method

(Serves four)

1. Drain can of corn kernels into a sieve and rinse under cold water. Set aside 2. Grate the zucchini 3. Add all ingredients except for olive oil into a large bowl and mix until combined. 4. Heat olive oil in a frypan over medium-high heat. Pour 1/4 of mixture into the pan at a time to form a fritter. 5. Fry each side for 2 minutes or until brown. Repeat with remaining mixture. 6. Serve with a dollop of greek yoghurt.

Ingredients 1 x 420g can of corn kernels 1 zucchini 2 cups of plain flour 1 teaspoon of baking powder 2 eggs, whisked 1 cup of milk 1 tablespoon of olive oil Greek yoghurt to serve

2 cups dried red lentils 4 cups water (to cover lentils) 2 teaspoon ground turmeric 2 tablespoons butter 1 brown onion 2 tomatoes 1 tablespoon ginger 1 green chili 2 teaspoons cumin seeds 2 teaspoon ground coriander 1 cup brown and/or wild rice combined Greek yoghurt, to serve (optional) Fresh coriander, to serve (optional)

Method 1. Add red lentils, 1 1/2 cups water, turmeric and butter to a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Bring to boil, then remove from heat and set aside.

2. Meanwhile, peel onion and dice. Dice tomatoes. Set aside. Grate ginger and finely slice chili. Set aside. 3. Heat oil in a saucepan over medium – high heat. Add cumin seeds and ground coriander. Fry for 1 minute. 4. Add onion, tomato, chili and ginger. Fry for 3-4 minutes until the onion is softened and spices are fragrant. Set aside. 5. Return saucepan with lentils to medium-high heat. Add fried spices, onion, tomato, chili and ginger. Add remaining water and stir through to combine. Bring to the boil. Place lid on saucepan and take off the heat and allow to rest for 10 minutes, until lentils are tender and water has absorbed. 6. Meanwhile, cook rice according to packet instructions or refer to our ‘how to cook rice’ video. 7. Plate lentil dhal with rice. Serve with a dollop with Greek yoghurt and fresh coriander.

11 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 23 September, 2020

FEATURING ... OUR COMMUNITY

Bank invests in its community As a recognition of how tough things have been during the pandemic, Altona, Laverton & Point Cook Community Bank (Bendigo Bank) has contributed nearly $60,000 to local projects, small businesses and organisations – and that’s in just the past few months. Manager Daniela Guertler says that in the course of 20 years, the community bank has grown from its humble beginnings and contributed about $4.9 million to locals. “Not only have we helped countless locals achieve their financial dreams and goals over the years, we have also been able to help shape our community, primarily through our Community Partnership Program,” Daniela says. “We’ve met so many community-minded people and have worked hard to bring them on board for the journey – to be part of something bigger. It has been a pleasure to give back to the community that came together to establish our three branches.” She says that the board members of Altona, Laverton & Point Cook Community Bank (Bendigo Bank) looked for meaningful ways to help people within the community they represent who are struggling to cope with the ‘new normal’ of COVID-19. “The board recognised the incredible effort of the Jamieson Way Community Centre, Laverton Community Integrated Services, and Latitude – all offering food relief programs throughout these trying times. “A $5000 IGA voucher has been supplied to each of these community groups, not only helping to feed locals in need, but supporting local business in the process – doubly effective.”

The Community Bank difference

knowledge that by banking with us, you are choosing to invest in the community you are part of,” says Daniela, who’s worked in banking for more than 35 years. “It means that as a customer you not only benefit from a great range of competitive products and the friendly service we’re so well

known for, you also get a sense of satisfaction knowing your banking is contributing to your community.” Right now, the bank’s Complete Home Loan is a low 2.34% p.a. (owner occupied P&I for 2-year fixed interest rate3; with a comparison rate1 of 2.96% p.a.

Altona & Laverton Community Bank (Bendigo Bank), 64 Pier Street, Altona; and 3/28 Aviation Road, Laverton. Open 9.30am-4.30pm Monday-Friday. Inquiries: 9398 8922 and 9369 8455, and follow on Facebook.

12460084-CG39-20

“We offer everything a bank does – home loans, insurance, term deposits – as well as the

Altona, Laverton & Point Cook Community Bank has contributed nearly $60,000 to local causes; Bank manager Daniela Guertler. (Pictures: Supplied)

Bendigo and Adelaide Bank Limited ABN 11 068 049 178, Australian Credit Licence 237879. Fusebox 18/09/20

12 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 23 September, 2020

FEATURING ... HEALTH & LIFESTYLE

Apartments that meet every need The Eternity apartment building, an exciting partnership project from Zenitas Healthcare and Apeiron Homes, is set to open next month to much anticipation. A visually appealing, high-quality 61-unit residential development, Eternity incorporates 15 specialist apartments that have been specifically designed to meet the needs of people with a disability who have high support needs. It’s a wonderful addition to the vibrant heart of West Footscray. Designed by K20 Architecture – specialists in disability architecture since 2001 – the building takes in spectacular city skyline views, and has elements that make it attractive to purchasers. Sustainability was the key design driver, with Eternity’s timber facade contributing to carbon positivity. Lifestyle needs have all been considered, such as the inclusion of a rooftop terrace, more common space and vegie garden. Eternity’s locale, apart from being in groovy West Footscray, is also lifestyle-friendly. It’s next to Stoney Creek, with parkland and walking paths on the doorstep. Of the 15 Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) scattered through the building, just five remain, which reflects the high level of demand. And there’s 24/7 on-site support for health and care needs. Dean and Carl are two men who have already snagged apartments and are eagerly awaiting move-in day. “The place looks fantastic!” Dean says. “I am excited about moving into a new apartment with city views. It will be great to enjoy the rooftop terrace, and utilise the communal vegetable garden as I would love to grow strawberries.” Carl adds: “Having a whole apartment to myself – when I have come from shared accommodation – is very exciting.” Information: www.thehousinghub.org.au

Carl is eagerly awaiting move-in day. Right: Artist impression of the Eternity apartment building. (Pictures: Supplied)

Are you looking for a fully accessible home in the heart of West Footscray ? To register your interest, please contact: Suzie Newall

M: E:

Welcome to Eternity launching October 2020.

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13 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 23 September, 2020

F th kid

TODAY Message us on Facebook to share your recipes and activity ideas.

Cook it

t t n i u Co

PIZZA MUFFINS Ingredients 3 English muffins (split) 6 tbs pizza sauce (or tomato paste) 4 slices ham (deli) (diced)

1 tin crushed pineapple (well drained) 3 cups pizza cheese

Method 1. Toast the muffins in the toaster and spread 1 tablespoon of pizza sauce on each. 2. Scatter ham and pineapple on the pizza sauce. 3. Top with pizza cheese. 4. Place under the grill until the cheese is melted and serve. Tip: An ideal after school snack or pop them cold in lunchboxes. Kids can choose any topping they like, great for fussy eaters! Recipe from www.kidspot.com.au

Make it I lo ve yo u w it h a ll my h e a rts!

fun fact ts Octopuses have 3 hear and blue blood!

SOAP FOAM Ingredients 1 cup Lux Pure Soap Flakes 2 cups hot water Method 1. Put soap flakes and water in a mixing bowl. 2. Mix on high speed until firm peaks form. Optional - add food colouring or glitter to the mixture. TIP: You can let the kids make a mess outside with this one and hose everything down to clean up when they’re done!

Subscribe to our digital editions at www.starweekly.com.au It’s not all about seeing 20/20. Good vision relies on many other visual skills. We are taking bookings for general vision tests after the lockdown period. We are still open now for urgent and essential eyecare

Call us for an appointment on 9398 1344 EXPERIENCE AWARD-WINNING EYE CARE TODAY. Book an appointment online: www.eyecareplus.com.au/Altona 14 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 23 September, 2020

Australian owned, independent optometrists with a difference. Complete eye care PLUS so much more!

Altona Optical Eyecare Plus Dry Eye Clinic Treatment for dry, gritty eyes. 63 Pier Street, Altona P: 9398 3098 Eyecare Plus Altona Behavioural Optometry & Vision Therapy – Developing vision for better learning. 90 Railway Street South, Altona P: 9398 1344

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STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Sudoku

Quick crossword 1

Fill the grid so every column, every row and 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9.

9 11

16 17

18 19

22 25

28 29

Down 2. Give permission (7) 3. Angel portrayed as a child (6) 4. Speech defect (4) 5. Move swiftly (4) 6. Boil gently (6) 7. Educational institute (7) 8. Straight, honest (6) 9. Middle (6) 13. Rescuer (7) 14. Maxim (7) 15. Solemn (7) 20. Legendary (6) 21. Strategies (7) 23. Tympanic membrane (7) 24. Farewell (3-3) 25. Separate, break away (6) 26. Saturated (6) 29. Halt (4) 30. Daring (4)

WordFit

Each number represents a different letter of the alphabet. Write the given letters into all squares with matching numbers. Now work out which letters are represented by the other numbers. As you get the letters, write them into the main grid and the reference grid. Decoder uses all 26 letters of the alphabet.

Fit the words into the grid to create a finished crossword

1 6

18 21

16 24

18 21

22 18

1 23

14 2

3 LETTERS ADD ALE ALL AND ASP EEL ERA ERR GIN ICY LAG MOA NAP ONE SHE SOT SPA STY SUE SUM TAB TEA YEN YES

20 7

14 4

1 21

16 8

14 10

ABCDE FGHIJKL MNOPQRSTUV WXYZ

10 11 12 13

14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 E O H

Quick crossword solution

WordBuilder WordBuilder

I A

416

S D

4 LETTERS AURA DOTS EDDY ERRS FANG LEAF MENU OPEN OSLO PAPA PEST SILO STEP TAPS 5 LETTERS AGILE AGLOW ALGAE

How many words of three or more letters, including plurals, can you make from the five letters, using each letter only once? No foreign words or words beginning with a capital are allowed. There’s at least one five-letter word. Good 9 Very Good 13 Excellent 18

O K A P I

ALONE ANGLO BLADE CAUSE CYRIL DEEMS DELTA DISHY DROOP ENDUE FUSSY GAFFE GHOST INANE INCUR LITHE NERVE OKAPI OMENS

PARES PIKER PITON POPPA PSALM RAISE REIGN RISKY ROBES SAHIB SAINT SATYR SLEET SNAPS SPOTS STEER STUDS TOAST TONTO

TYRES USERS USHER VISOR YAWNS

8 LETTERS ANTEROOM INTERCOM WARRANTY WAYFARER

6 LETTERS ASSAIL DABBLE LITTER SLATES

11 LETTERS DILAPIDATED OBSERVATORY

7 LETTERS CLIPPED ICERINK LAURELS PLACEBO PLAINLY PRESENT

Sudoku solutions

Decoder F

14 1

15 2

16 3

17 4

18 5

19 6

20 7

21 8

22 9

Across: 1. Parcel, 5. Dismal, 10. Impress, 11. Rummage, 12. Exodus, 15. Select, 16. Barrier, 17. Tier, 18. Pyre, 19. Circuit, 20. Fate, 22. Herb, 25. Surplus, 27. Bicker, 28. Source, 31. Evident, 32. Orderly, 33. Asleep, 34. Dynamo. Down: 2. Approve, 3. Cherub, 4. Lisp, 5. Dart, 6. Simmer, 7. Academy, 8. Direct, 9. Centre, 13. Saviour, 14. Precept, 15. Serious, 20. Fabled, 21. Tactics, 23. Eardrum, 24. Bye-bye, 25. Secede, 26. Sodden, 29. Stop, 30. Bold. B L A D E

A L O N E

S T U D S

I N A N E

D I L A P I D A T E D

A L G A E

P S A L M

R E I G N

E S E T L E P U S T H Y E R R E S T A S B L A S T U E M S

R A I S E I N C U R S T E E R I K E R S C Y R I L Y O N E O K A P C O M F A L S P I L O W A P O P P A P E R R E N E R V D D S A I O M E N S T O N T O S A T Y R

A N G L O S A H I B S P O T S P A S H E L I T T E R A L E V I A U R A N G S O T L A C E B O Y F A R E R F U S S Y Y E S E E D D Y N T E R A A G L O W P I T O N S N A P S

WordBuilder

Across 1. Package (6) 5. Dreary (6) 10. Stamp, imprint (7) 11. Search haphazardly (7) 12. Mass departure (6) 15. Choose (6) 16. Obstruction (7) 17. Layer (4) 18. Funeral mound (4) 19. Lap (7) 20. Destiny (4) 22. Food flavouring (4) 25. Excess (7) 27. Quibble (6) 28. Origin (6) 31. Obvious (7) 32. Neatly arranged (7) 33. Elapse (anag) (6) DECODER 34. PowerDECODER generator (6)

Decoder

WordFit

PUZZLES

ads, aid, aide, aides, aids, ais, aside, dais, die, dies, dis, ide, idea, ideas, ides, ids, sad, said, sea, sei, side

MEDIUM

EASY

HARD

SOLUTION TO DECODER 16:

O G

R T

Do you have a car sitting around that is in the way?

E E T L L Y FWhy E R not sell it for recycling? I C E N20Tyears S experience buying cars from the public & trade all over Melbourne

All puzzles © The Puzzle Company

R I F L E

Note: more than one solution may be possible.

What does the M stand for in the radio abbreviation FM? What was the name of Chris Hemsworth’s character on Home and Away? In which sport would you encounter a jerk? Which comic-strip hero inspired the invention of ankle tags for monitoring the movements of criminal offenders released early from prison? 5. Whose leaving Genesis led to Phil Collins becoming the main man for vocals? 6. What is the most common French surname? 7. Who made up the trio of buddies with Ritchie and Potsie in TV’s Happy Days? 8. Is hypocaust a violent tropical storm, a type of paint-stripper or a Roman heating system? 9. Lexus is the luxury car division of which car maker? 10. In tennis, which two countries won every Davis Cup from 1946-1973? 1. 2. 3. 4.

G H O S T

Insert the missing letters to make ten words — five reading across the grid and five reading down.

T Y R E S

E L E C T

5x5 solution E L F I N

Quiz

R I F L E

5x5

G H O S T

Quiz solution

“We embrace responsible recycling”

LMCT 9534

Call or email now for a quote on 0413 904 368 • aloahmtrs@outlook.com 12455405-CLG32-20

15 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 23 September, 2020

1. Modulation, 2. Kim Hyde, 3. Weightlifting, 4. Spiderman, 5. Peter Gabriel, 6. Martin, 7. Ralph, 8. Roman heating system, 9. Toyota, 10. Australia and United States.

FEATURING ... EDUCATION CHOICES

Preparing your child for school Starting school is a momentous occasion in a child’s life. It’s a major milestone for children and their parents, and one that’s filled with a mix of emotions. To help make the transition as smooth as possible, there are many things mums and dads can do to prepare their child. Emeritus Professor Bob Perry is an education expert in transitions, having developed a guide featuring multiple case studies of parents, teachers and kids during the transition to school. Professor Perry says while beginning primary school can be a challenge, most children find it enjoyable. “Children of that age want to grow up – they see excitement in growing up and they want school to be different. So we shouldn’t worry that it is different as the kids want it that way,” he explains. The move from kindergarten to primary school, he says, is more about a child’s social and emotional development, than academic. Here, Professor Perry shares his top tips to help a child prepare for primary school.

Talk

Most children are keen to go to school because they see it as ‘growing up’. (Supplied)

Start talking to your children about school. This includes talking about the school itself, what it was like when you went to school, what’s changed since you went to school and what it will be like for your child. Ask your child about what’s concerning them and what are they looking forward to? Like most people, children will bottle things up unless they are

specifically asked about them. For example, the child may be particularly worried about the playground – sometimes playgrounds can be a bit daunting.

Managing expectations The key is being honest, even if you didn’t particularly like school. Parents can talk about some of the positive things that did happen when they were at school. Be honest about it, but make sure you know what will happen when they go to school. For example, I know some parents who talk about children lining up before going into classroom – this doesn’t happen at some schools any more. If a child sees that doesn’t happen then the parent loses some credibility with the child. It’s important for parents to talk to the principal or teacher about what happens in that particular school. Another thing is many children wish they’d known before their first day is that everyone wears a school uniform. We often make a big deal about getting their uniform but forget to tell them everyone will be dressed the same.

Lunch boxes Buy a lunch box and check your child can open it. There seems to be a tendency to buy the latest superhero lunchbox or whatever the trend is, but the critical thing is that your child can actually open it. Talk to your child about having lunch at school and be sure to tell them that you don’t eat everything at once! Also make sure you can pack lunches that don’t require wrap or foil, so that the kids don’t have trouble unwrapping their food.

Join us online for a Talk & Tour of our College.

Applications for Year 7 2022 are now open

A new way of

EXPLORING

Applications close 9 October 2020 Limited places available for Years 8—12 2021

For information and bookings, visit:

www.mariansw.catholic.edu.au Marian College Sunshine West A Kildare Education Ministries Catholic school for girls in the Brigidine tradition 196 Glengala Road Sunshine West VIC 3020 | 03 9363 1711 12460799-DL37-20

16 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 23 September, 2020

FEATURING ... EDUCATION CHOICES

‘‘

you want them to feel a sense of belonging - Bob Perry

Toilets

’’

school has to be aware of it before they can do anything about it.

Going to public toilets is critical for both boys and girls. School toilets are different to home toilets and preschool toilets. While school toilets have improved a great deal, they aren’t as sparkling clean as the toilet at home or at kindy. And, for the first time, kids will have to make a choice about whether they go to the boys toilets or girls toilets – they need to know about that. For boys it is important they know that there are different ways of going to toilet other than standing over a bowl. These are the practical things.

What to do at home Don’t organise a big party to celebrate starting school in the first week. Your child will be too tired – it’s a big change. Like many people, kids are not necessarily going to be ready to talk about their day as soon as they walk in the door or get in the car. Sometimes there needs to be tricks played to get the kids talking. Sometimes it’s worth parents just talking with teacher at the end of the day and asking them how things are going. At least that gives the parent a way in by saying ‘Ms So and So said you enjoyed doing such and such today, would you like doing more of that at home?’ It’s all about communicating when you know more about what’s going on. Sometimes the child won’t want to talk and that’s OK. However, if they spend the first six months not wanting to talk you may want to have a yarn to the teacher about it.

Playground practice Take your child to big public spaces. Take them to the park and let them play on the playground equipment. Schools have playgrounds that are bigger than they are used to with more people in them and less adults per child. The children need to have experience around these things. While you are there, take them to the toilet! Choose a lunchbox that is easy for your child to open. (iStock)

What if my child comes home upset

Meet and greet

After school care This is something that tends to be forgotten. After school care is another transition that

can be challenging. Certainly at prep level you go there to play, but you have to get there. For some kids that means walking across the playground, but for others it will involve getting a bus. The child needs to be prepared for that. They need to go and visit the after school care place. Sometimes it’s not a bad idea for kids to go to vacation care for a couple of days to get used to that transition. However this only works if the actual after school place they will be going to offers vacation care.

Special needs Often with children who have special needs, there will have been a very extensive transition to school program. This is generally instigated by the parent or kindy teacher. Providing the child is identified as having special needs, there is usually meetings between school representatives, principals, the teacher, kindy teacher and therapists of various sorts. They work out an individual plan for these children. Parents need to make sure this happens. If they know their child has additional needs, the

Before your child comes home upset, you need to know the teacher so you don’t have to get on the phone and start introducing yourself. You want to get straight down to the business and say ‘we have a problem’. It is a problem that everyone – the teacher, parent, school and child will have to work out together. It’s possible your child will come home and throw their bag down and say ‘I’m not going back there’ because of an incident. The parent needs to get straight onto the teacher. The big problem is if a parent tries to solve problem themselves as they only know part of the story.

12460590-RC37-20

Before the school year begins, every parent should take their child to the school to meet the principal and the potential teacher. It’s important to take your child with you as you want them to feel a sense of belonging. You need to know the teacher, so you don’t have to get on the phone and start introducing yourself if there’s a problem.

17 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 23 September, 2020

(iStock)

FEATURING ... EDUCATION CHOICES

Prep for a positive move More support will be available to educators and teachers to better prepare for children moving from kindergarten to school. Parliamentary Secretary for Early Childhood Education Sonya Kilkenny announced additional support for early childhood services and schools to prepare children in kinder for their transition to school in 2021 amid the pandemic. “By supporting educators and teachers, we are ensuring that prep students starting school in 2021 have every opportunity to reach their full potential,” Ms Kilkenny said. “This is about providing continuity of learning which is integral to successful transitions for children starting school and creating a positive learning experience.” Educators will be able to register for online professional development workshops and webinars, to learn how to adapt existing transition programs during coronavirus

restrictions – as well as adapt Transition Statements to support the continuity of learning. Educators will also be able to access new resources including guidance for kindergartens on transition in a time of COVID-19 and guidance for schools to best meet the needs of prep students who have had a disrupted kindergarten year due to the pandemic. These tools will help educators and teachers give practical advice on the transition to school processes to ensure children and families are ready for this significant milestone. Early childhood educators and schools need to work collaboratively and with families to ensure kindergarten children can effectively transition in the prep classroom. A positive start to school, leading to greater and ongoing connection with school, has been identified as a factor in disrupting cycles of disadvantage, and in promoting resilience.

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New facilities across our three campuses Year 7 2022 enrolments filling fast Visit cccc.vic.edu.au or call 9296 5311

18 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 23 September, 2020

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HOBSONS BAY CITY COUNCIL ANNUAL REPORT INCLUDING FINANCIAL REPORT 2019- 20 Council will consider the Annual Report including the Financial Report for the year ended 30 June 2020 at the virtual Council Meeting held on Tuesday 13 October 2020 and commencing at 7pm. During the State of Emergency a copy will be made available on the Council website at www.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au. Following the cessation of the State of Emergency, when ofﬁces are opened to the public again, copies will be made available for inspection at the Hobsons Bay Civic Centre (115 Civic Parade, Altona) and Hobsons Bay libraries.

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Mini-Merc lifts lid on super-hatch

The Mercedes-AMG A 45 S 4Matic+ speeds its way to the head of the hatchback pack. (Pictures: Supplied)

By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring A compact hatchback at a six-figure price – anybody could be forgiven for thinking this was an oxymoron. However, the Mercedes-AMG A 45 S 4Matic+ hatch goes a long way – very quickly – to dispel any doubts about its stratospheric sticker. For a start, this little beauty features the world’s most powerful turbocharged four-cylinder engine in a production model in Australia. Add to this a new AMG eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and A 45 S 4Matic+ all-wheel drive system. And the result is a zero-to-100 km/h sprint of 3.9 seconds. The car also boasts a level of comfort, convenience and safety found in luxury models of equally elevated price – $93,600, plus on-road costs. Added investments can include a Driver’s Package with top speed upped to 270 km/h, Track Pace data logging, Night Pack with design bits in black and 19-inch by 8.5-inch wide AMG cross-spoke alloy wheels in matt black with shiny flange.

those bored with the company. A useful 370-litre boot can be expanded to 1210 litres with the 40:20:40 seat backs folded.

Infotainment Twin 10.25-inch high-resolution displays sweep across the dashboard putting important information for the driver, and general info for driver and front seat passenger within easy viewing. All occupants are in a position to take full advantage of an advanced audio system with Burmester surround-sound, while the test car driver was able to take advantage of an optional ($790) colour head-up windscreen display. This system can ‘learn’ the driver’s habits and routines, and offer helpful suggestions and shortcuts. For example, if he or she phones home at a certain time every day, MBUX will point it out as the time approaches. Members of my family cheekily named the female ‘voice’ Flo (for Florence and the Machine, get it?) as she eagerly did their bidding.

Engines / transmissions Styling Building on the latest AMG A-Class hatchback, performance credentials are presented up front with a specific wider, lower radiator grille and a dozen vertical louvres. Wider front wings and flared wheel arches make room for a wider axle. In company with the car’s performance pedestal, wider side skirts give the impression of the vehicle’s hugging the road, while from the rear, this is emphasised once more by double twin 90 mm diameter tailpipes with internal fluting and AMG lettering. Aerodynamics are boosted by a diffuser with two vertical fins. Red brake calipers boast the AMG stamp in black, which is repeated unashamedly throughout the vehicle, inside and out.

Interior Black is the main colour theme throughout, the leather sports seats cashing in with red inserts. Coloured strips of lighting announce a laidback ambience, especially at night, while the sports steering wheel is swathed in a soft chubby grip that comes, and stays, easily to hand. The swoopy roof limits rear-seat head room – a panoramic sunroof squeezed test car space even further – and occupants can miss out on leg room if front seat occupants are above average height. The good news is a drop-down arm rest incorporates twin cup holders and there’s a reading light above each window for

In an AMG tradition, a single person is given the job of hand-assembling each 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which pumps out an incredible 310 kW of power, which at 155 kW per litre, puts it ahead of many super-sports car motors. It’s 30 kW and 25 Nm better than the unit it replaces. That extra power, and peak torque of 500 Nm are put to the road in combination with a new AMG Speedshift DCT-8G dual-clutch eight-speed transmission and AMG Performance 4Matic all-wheel drive. The car is capable of reaching 100 km/h from rest in an eye-watering 3.9 seconds.

Safety Safety is packaged as only Mercedes-Benz premium models can be, with its driving assist package plus, active distance assist, including cross-traffic alert, active lane change assist and a parking package featuring 360-degree camera multibeam LED headlights with adaptive high beam assist plus and route-based speed adaptation.

Driving Engineers were involved from early on in the initial design to plan for the super-power engine status. With a threat of torsional twisting, a strengthened chassis with a lower ‘shearing plate’ beneath the engine was worked into the car’s construction.

AT A GLANCE MODEL RANGE Mercedes-AMG A 45 S 4MATIC+ hatch $93,600 SPECIFICATIONS Mercedes-AMG A 45 S 2-litre 4cyl turbocharged petrol, 8sp automatic, AWD, 5dr hatchback

Note: This price does not include government or dealer delivery charges. Contact your local Mercedes-Benz dealer for drive-away prices.

AMG Dynamic Select controller gets to work in choosing one of five drive modes – Comfort, Sport, Sport +, Individual and Race. Then there’s AMG Performance 4Matic+ all-wheel drive, that shares power between the two rear wheels with torque control, resulting in an added ‘Drift’ mode for racetrack playtime. Scrolling through the Dynamic Select system, with Comfort well suited to stop / start going. Sport and Sport + had things bubbling with a pleasing combination of peppy performance and firm and responsive ride

and steering, while Race with its bone-jarring stiffness, was better left for a later day and track with an ultra-smooth surface. The 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine is a paragon of versatility, with usable power and torque on tap throughout the rev range. Maximum torque is on tap between 5000 and 5250 revs, matching similar naturally aspirated motors, while maximum engine speed of 7200 rpm is in line with the car’s sporty character. Fuel consumption presents a pleasantly frugal set of figures. On a 30-minute jaunt on the motorway in ‘Comfort’ mode, the AMG recorded fuel consumption of 7.1 litres per 100 kilometres. In the city, this ran out to more than 10 litres per 100 kilometres. When flogged along the motor made a meal of the figures, with 16 to 20 litres per 100 kilometres. Controls are far from intuitive with an ultra-busy array of switches, buttons, knobs, touch screen and pad to access many levels of the car’s computer. This is where the MBUX comes to the rescue with voice activation at the command of ‘Hey, Mercedes’, enabling occupants to control dozens of common functions.

Summing up As well as enjoying an unparalleled hatchback experience, the enthusiastic driver can delve into a deep well of the latest automotive technology of the Mercedes-AMG A 45 S 4Matic+. However, best the car can come up with should be left strictly to the track and there is a high purchase price to pay for the privilege.

21 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 23 September, 2020

SPORT Cricket’s waiting game By Tara Murray Cricketers across Victoria are playing a wait and see game ahead of the cricket season. Usually, at this time of year, players are entering the final stages of pre-season, but this year it is one big unknown due to the COVID-19 pandemic and resulting restrictions. Associations are trying to plan seasons, with late November likely to be the earliest start date. Sydenham-Hillside’s committee is focusing on what it can control for its teams playing in the Victorian Turf and North West Metropolitan cricket associations. Storm head of cricket Bob Kunesevic said the club had already had five different versions of a pre-season senior training plan. “We’ve just been indicating to our playing base, just to be flexible,” he said. “The boys are doing their extra work and they’re pretty close-knit. They’ve got the Strava app happening and they’re keeping themselves accountable. “Obviously with the bat and ball it’s been pretty limited at the minute so the majority of stuff we’ve been working on is our fitness levels.”

‘‘

We are still confident of a start at some point

’’

- Steve McNamara Adding to the unknown for the Storm, who have won back-to-back premierships, is whether they will see the return of international premiership stars, playing coach Alston Bobb and VTCA division 3 best and fairest winner Akeem Springer. Both are keen to return for a second season. “International travel probably won’t be open for this season or at least until 2021,” Kunesevic said. “We might get them in January and February and that would be great. We’re being flexible in our coaching structure and how that will look.” Kunesevic said the potential loss of the two international stars could open up the doors for some of the Storm’s younger players to step up. The Storm have been making sure their juniors aren’t forgotten, with Zoom and WhatsApp conversations aplenty. The under-16s have been studying theory, trying to understand the game a bit better – something Kunesevic said they normally don’t get the time for. Cam Clayton, a premiership winning captain-coach with St Anthony’s, has come across to Storm and taken on a lot of the coaching so far. Gayashan Weerasekara, who has won two VTCA best and fairest awards, is another key recruit for Storm, having crossed from Caroline Springs. Williamstown is also coming off a successful season, winning its second Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association premiership in three years. Both its firsts and second XIs were awarded the premiership last season after being the highest-ranked team heading into the grand finals, which were cancelled. Seagulls secretary Jordan Doyle said there wasn’t a lot happening at the club with the present restrictions. “We haven’t been able to do our annual GM [general meeting],” he said. “Some clubs have chosen to do over Zoom, but we have life members to induct so we don’t really want to do it on that platform. “The executive committee has been meeting frequently and discussing some things. I’ve had a council meeting and discussion about a few things that are happening with our ground.” Doyle said seniors were due to start

Victoria that no cricket would be possible. He said it’s been shown in the United Kingdom that cricket can be played safely. Having had their season cut short last season because of bad weather, Hilton said clubs were keen to get back on the ground. 206365_01 He said there could be a different fixture structure depending on restrictions. Above: The Gisborne and District Cricket Williamstown Association has already made the call to make celebrate a wicket its season one-dayers only. last season. President Rob McIntyre said one of the (Mark Wilson) biggest issues was the location of clubs. With half of the associaiton’s competing clubs in metropolitan Melbourne and half in regional areas, they could have different COVID-19 timeframes for sport to resume. “There may be a situation where the clubs in the other [regional] areas that are permitted to play may have a small competition whilst waiting for the clubs in metro councils to be permitted to play,” McIntyre said. “We would then start over again with all clubs competing in a competition for points.” McIntyre said they had seven different scenarios with January 30 the latest start time for a season. fit for cricket, but it’s not like footy when you While a start date is still unknown, there are need 100s of ks [kilometres] in the legs.” plenty of players keen to wait it out and get out Doyle said the club believed it needed three on the ground. GDCA clubs are reporting an weeks of training ahead of any season. increase in the number of players signing up With their ground unavailable for much of – many of them footballers keen to play some the season due to ground works, Doyle said for sport. them this was the ideal season, if any, to have VTCA president Steve McNamara said they less games. had a number of different scenarios ready to go. From a club perspective, Doyle said the He said they expected clubs to need four to junior step up was more complicated with their five weeks to prepare for a season. program growing and several clubs in the area. “Obviously we are expecting a delayed start,” he said. “It’s just a waiting game for all of us at Cricket associations also are having to put present. We are still confident of a start at some several plans in place for various scenarios. point.” VSDCA chief executive Ken Hilton said they McNamara said there would be a number of remained confident there would be a season. He changes once any season started, including all said there has been no suggestion from Cricket competitions facing stricter hygiene regimes. Left: Sydenham-Hillside coach Alston Bobb may not get back to Australia this season. (Shawn Smits)

pre-season training at the start of August, but hadn’t been able to do so. With most of the premiership side sticking together, it had made things a lot easier. Fraser Hay, who won the club’s first XI bowling average, has moved to Footscray, while Dale McDonald has retired again. Former junior Sean Sturrock returns from playing premier cricket with Melbourne. “It’s all been pretty positive and we’re confident we have the depth,” Doyle said. “We haven’t set any individual programs as we’ve all been in stage four lockdown. There’s a few of us in our Strava group doing some fitness stuff. “Everyone has been around long enough to know what is expected of them. You need to be

22 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 23 September, 2020

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McFerran returns to her western suburbs’ roots

Shannon McFerran will coach Keilor’s women’s team. (Supplied)

Shannon McFerran began her football life in the western suburbs and she returns to her roots after being named Keilor’s new women’s coach. One of Australia’s top women footballers, McFerran turned her focus to coaching once she finished her playing career. She’s spent the past five years as an AFLW assistant coach, while juggling a role as Carlton’s VFLW coach for the past three years. She said that with two young boys, she wanted to find a balance with football and family life – something she thinks she can achieve at the Essendon District Football League club. “I’m looking forward to it, it should be good,” she said. “I know that they’re a really good club … the opportunity kind of came up and it was kind of too good not to take part in it. “I was looking forward to a fresh sort of start at grassroots level again and getting back into that should be good.”

McFerran, who is completing a level three AFL coach accreditation, said she has heard a lot of good things about Keilor. Former Keilor coach Emma Kerry has been part of the Carlton VFLW coaching panel, while Sarah and Gemma Wright both made the transition from Keilor to Carlton’s VFLW before being drafted. “The club itself has a great culture and reputation of a really good female program, which is always really exciting, and in juniors as well,” McFerran said. “I think that’s always important to have a pathway there so they can stay at the one club and start from such a young age and journey the way through, so that for me is a huge part of my decision, seeing them develop all the way through.” McFerran said there was still a lot of unknowns as to when football could start and how things would look with COVID-19. She was hopeful of being able to have some training sessions before Christmas. The Blues finished

Darley is back training

Danza Hyatt will again be in Darley colours this season. (Shawn Smits) 203366_03

One player who is returning for the Lions is former West Indies international player Danza Hyatt. Hyatt, who starred for the Lions last season, has spent the off season in Australia. “The West Indies have different rules and they weren’t allowing flights in,” Wheelahan said.

Tara Murray

Bowden back for Lancefield

By Tara Murray Darley cricket players excitedly hit the cricket nets last week, but have had to start pre-season training without their coach. With COVID-19 regional lockdown rules changing midweek, cricketers in regional areas were given permission to train in groups of 10. While the majority of players hit the nets, coach Brian Wheelahan can’t join them as he lives in Melton, which is classified as a metro area and still in stage four lockdown. He said while it was disappointing he couldn’t be at training, he understands the significance of why. “I rang the [COVID-19] hotline yesterday and I’m not essential service so I can’t go to training,” Wheelahan said. “It’s a mixed bag returning to training. The boys are excited to get together, but there are strict guidelines and we don’t know what to expect the next few weeks.” Wheelahan said there was a group of four or five players who had formed a leadership group last season who would take charge of coaching for the meantime. He said he was more than confident that they would be able to get the job done. Wheelahan said the group was excited to get back and train. “It’s exciting for them to get back to some form of normality,” he said. “It’s a little bit different and there’s new learnings along the way. Everyone else is in the same boat.” Wheelahan isn’t the only one affected by the different lockdowns, with Rahmatullah Khwaja living in Sunbury, which is also a metro area. The Ballarat Cricket Association was due to meet on Thursday with hopes of being able to reveal a start date for the season. The Lions, who went through last season undefeated and were awarded the premiership after the season was called off due to COVID-19, will have a different side this season. Englishman Harry Killoran, who made more than 600 runs, won’t be coming out to Australia. Jake Wilkie lives in Ocean Grove and Ryan Ali’s playing future is up in the air due to work. Wheelahan said the focus was to continue on what they had put in place last season. “We’ve lost four out of our premiership side,” he said. “It gives opportunities for blokes like Joel Cadman, Jordan Monaghan and Drew Locke to put their hands up. “We’ll be super competitive and our driving force is to make sure we back up what we produced last season. “I’m not saying we’ll go through undefeated again, but we want to be asking questions at the end of the year.”

runners-up in premier division in 2019. “It’s always unknown territory when you head into a new position, but I think the club and previous coach have really kind of worked hard at keeping a good relationship with all the players and hopefully we can hit the ground running. “I’m really excited and keen to get the ball rolling.” Having been involved with football most of her life, McFerran said it was exciting how far female football had developed since she started. “I always talk about my junior days at St Albans and I loved growing up in the western suburbs of Melbourne,” she said. “The opportunity now is greater than when I was their age. I think the growth has been huge and it’s through the hard work of people at local clubs running those programs and maintaining them that is integral to the growth. “We see some really good AFLW players come out of those clubs which has been great.”

“The club has been great in accommodating Danza and when the decision was made about training he was at the nets and running laps that day. “Cricket is his life and he can’t wait to start like the rest of us. I’ve said it a few times before he’s a class above and the best player I’ve played with or coached.”

A familiar face has returned to Lancefield Cricket Club and is stepping into the coaching hot seat for the upcoming Gisborne and District Cricket Association season. Multiple premiership-winning star Matthew Bowden has returned to the club after having the past two seasons off. Bowden said it was exciting to return to the club. “I stepped away from the club due to family commitments with our first baby and thought I would have a year off,” he said. “We then had renovations at home and I just wanted to focus on that over the last couple of years. We had another boy last month, but we’re a bit more settled. “With no footy this year, I’ve gone crazy with the free time so I’ve decided to play cricket again. “I was at the AGM and they said they were looking for a coach. I enjoyed working alongside Digger [Luke Barker] previously and I thought I would give it a crack.” Bowden, who is also captain of the Lancefield senior football team, said he was looking forward to working with the young kids coming through the club. He is hoping he won’t be the only player returning to the club. “There’s a few players who are questionable at the moment, it’s hard with the COVID-19 side of things with work and trying to make a commitment. “A few players who played the McIntyre Cup might play a few games. The two Malone boys[ Luke and Nathan] and Jarryd McGill. Most players from last year have committed.” The Tigers, who claimed the north premiership last season will play in division 2 this season, with the hopes of fielding a second team in a lower division. Bowden said they had hoped to play in the higher Jensen Shield, but were prepared to do the hard work to rise up the grades. The Tigers will again field a women’s side this season in the new Gisborne and District Cricket Association competition. The Tigers are still looking for a coach. Applications close September 25. Tara Murray

23 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 23 September, 2020

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