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One for the kids Volunteers from the Werribee Ladies for Kids Auxiliary for the Royal Children’s Hospital will be busy fundraising next month. Auxillary group member Heather Brett will run stalls at MADE on Watton from May 13-16 and Pacific Werribee between May 27-30. Items for sale will include knitted blankets, toys, teddy bears, “beautiful” jumpers, tea towels and rugs. Mrs Brett said throughout last year’s COVID-19 pandemic, the auxiliary group raised $16,500 by selling handmade masks and other items online – the group usually raises about $50,000 per year for the hospital. Mrs Brett said she has many regular customers who like buying wares at the fundraising stalls. “Especially at the Werribee Plaza (Pacific Werribee), a lot of people hang out for me to be there because I do jams and chutneys,” she said. “They say, ‘Oh, thank goodness you’re back’.” HEATHER BRETT

Alesha Capone

Property market booms Wyndham’s suburbs have all recorded an annual growth in median house prices, with Williams Landing, Wyndham Vale and Point Cook leading the way. Figures released by the Real Estate Institute of Victoria (REIV) last week show that the median house price in Williams Landing surged by 20.4 per cent between March, 2020 and March, 2021 (from $645,000 to $777,000). The median price for a Wyndham Vale house increased by 9.8 per cent (from $467,000 to $513,000) and Point Cook’s rose by 9.7 per cent

(from $540,000 to $565,000). Medians in Hoppers Crossing and Tarneit both grew by 4.6 per cent – from $540,000 to $565,000 in Hoppers Crossing and from $555,000 to $581,000 in Tarneit. Median house prices in Manor Lakes increased 4.2 per cent (from $547,000 to $594,000). Houses in Truganina experienced a 1.7 per cent growth in median prices (from $570,000 to $595,000) and 1.12 per cent in Werribee (from $532,000 to $538,000). According to the REIV, the median house price in metropolitan Melbourne reached

$1.004 million this March. Between January 1 and March 31 this year, there was a total of 845 house, unit and apartment sales across Wyndham. Point Cook led the way with 263 sales, followed by Tarneit with 163 sales and Werribee, 148 sales. There were 110 sales in Hoppers Crossing, 77 in Wyndham Vale, 44 in Manor Lakes and 30 in Williams Landing. Werribee South recorded 10 sales. Across Victoria, there was an estimated 35,000 residential real estate transactions in the March quarter, the highest since the March

2015 quarter. REIV president Leah Calnan said she expected the market to gradually settle as life returns to normal following a tumultuous 2020. “Market statistics show unprecedented levels of buyer interest across Victoria,” she said. “House prices have been boosted by incentives for First Home Buyers, mortgage repayment holidays, and low interest rates. “High demand across the state has also been fuelled by an increase in activity following Victoria’s lockdowns which saw thousands of auctions cancelled.”

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2 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 28 April, 2021

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Police deny staff shortage By Alesha Capone Victoria Police has moved to reassure the public that Wyndham’s Criminal Investigation Unit is fully staffed, after a decision to re-advertise eight vacant positions created by internal transfers last year. Eight Detective Senior Constable positions were recently advertised in Wyndham, but Victoria Police decided to “to readvertise the positions based on a number of factors” while the recruitment process was under way. Assistant Commissioner Luke Cornelius

said the people chosen for the eight detective positions would play an “integral role” in the community, investigating serious local crimes including sexual assaults, burglaries, and robberies. “This is why we are committed to having the best possible candidates in these positions who can bring a wide range of insights and strengthen our capability to protect and best support victims of all ages, sexes, and backgrounds,” he said. “We are very proud to be able to serve Victoria’s incredibly diverse community, and our goal is to ensure this is

Pageant with a purpose Tarneit’s Shanika Narayan says that while she was growing up, her parents taught her the importance of compassion and empathy. Ms Narayan, 20, was selected as one of the finalists at this year’s Miss World Australia (MWA) Victorian final, which was held earlier this month. The competition encourages participants to raise money for a worthwhile cause. “I am very proud to say that I raised just over $2300 for Variety the Children’s Charity – I am also incredibly grateful to my friends and family who helped me donate,” Ms Narayan said. “Every Aussie child deserves a fair go and I am glad that I have been able to contribute.” While Ms Narayan was not selected as one of five Victorians to contest the next stage of the pageant, she did place among the top 10 finalists. “I took part because I really admire the MWA motto: beauty with a purpose,” she said. “There are still misconceptions about pageantry in this day and age – it’s not completely about how you look – but it’s more how you are able to contribute to society and what qualities you possess.” Ms Narayan is completing her third year of studying a bachelor of applied science (aviation). She said that with two parents who have worked extensively in aviation, her dream to become a commercial airline pilot – which was sparked when she attended the 2015 Avalon Airshow - “was almost a no brainer”. “I know in the end it will be an incredibly rewarding career,” Ms Narayan said. “Right now, it is a male dominated industry and so I encourage all my sisters out there to join aviation because there are an abundance of opportunities for you to grasp and it is a beautiful world to be part of.” Alesha Capone Shanika Narayan. (Damjan Janevski) 234399_05

reflected by continuing to create a more modern and inclusive Victoria Police workforce.” A statement from Victoria Police said there was “no gap in staffing the current vacant Detective Senior Constable positions” in Wyndham. “While the positions are advertised, they are being filled by other officers on assignment duties,” the statement said. The statement also said that Victoria Police “has been working hard to address the barriers that have impeded some people, particularly women, from progressing their careers – such as enhanced flexible working arrangements and

improved access to training and development, and we have seen greater diversity in applicants as a result of this work”. “It is clear that a more modern and inclusive workforce creates a more innovative environment, and better reflects the entire community of Victoria who we serve. “Victoria Police does not have gender quotas for positions, and we do not drop our selection standards to increase the diversity in our organisation.” The number of criminal offences recorded in Wyndham increased by 9.1 per cent last year, according to Crime Statistics Agency data.

Parks get new lease on life Four parks in Tarneit will undergo upgrades totalling $1.65 million in the coming months. The parks in Moondara Street, Camelot Drive, Samaria Street and Tarneit Lakes will have fitness equipment stations installed, along with renewed play spaces, new nature play areas and seating. More trees will be planted to increase canopy cover. Wyndham council will contribute $600,000 to the project and the state government $465,000. The project is being delivered in partnership with the Tarneit Suburban Revitalisation Board which is chaired by Tarneit MP Sarah Connolly. The board provides advice to the state government on ways to renew Tarneit, delivering projects that will improve public space and amenity and support local jobs and businesses. The Suburban Revitalisation program also works with regional and local stakeholders to help plan and deliver economic and social infrastructure and community development. It recently began supporting new projects in six activity centres in metropolitan Melbourne, in the areas of Tarneit, Melton, Reservoir, Boronia, Noble Park and Lilydale. Ms Connolly said the Tarneit park upgrades “will help to beautify the community and provide a space for people to come together”. Suburban Development Minister Shaun Leane said: “This is part of our Suburban Revitalisation boost in Tarneit, supporting projects that matter most to locals.” Details: suburbandevelopment.vic.gov. au

Smile Squad is on its way The Victorian Government is making it easier for our kids to get the dental care they need. Find out more at smilesquad.vic.gov.au

3 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 28 April, 2021

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Walker takes on CEO role Wyndham council has appointed Natalie Walker to the role of acting chief executive officer, after Kelly Grigsby resigned last month to take up a position with the City of Hobart. Ms Walker, who is also Wyndham’s director of strategy and policy impact, will take up the acting chief executive position from this week onwards. Wyndham council has appointed Davidson Recruitment to assist with the recruitment of a permanent chief executive.

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Little River will play host to an event involving music, art and cycling this weekend. Tarneit resident Damien Laing, an artist, curator and keen cyclist, has organised Little River Bands. Laing said members of Audax Australia Cycling Club, a non-profit organisation specialising in non-competitive long distance bicycle rides, will participate in a variety of rides on Saturday morning, with an afternoon of music and art displays also planned. The rides, ranging from 50 kilometres to 200 kilometres in length, will travel through the You Yangs and Brisbane Ranges from 7am. “I picked Little River because I’ve spent a lot of time riding in the area,” Laing said. He said that while a lot of people go walking

Werribee MP Tim Pallas has announced the state government will give Wyndham council $97,428 to invest in a new pop-up library van. The van will be equipped with a lift, full library fit-out and free wi-fi service.

New water chief

in the You Yangs and Brisbane Ranges areas, not many people cycle through the “really beautiful” natural scenery. Laing – who has previously organised events in locations as diverse as Laverton, Brunswick and Germany – said Little River Bands would provide a way for people interested in either sport, music or art to meet and make friends. He said some of the artists taking part in the event live in Wyndham and Geelong, including Hoppers Crossing photographer Imran Abul Kashem and Tarneit rapper Sunny Boi Singh. Little River Bands will run from 7am-10pm on Saturday at the Little River Mechanics Hall. 8 Rothwell Road, Little River. Tickets: $5 to $15. Book at: www.trybooking.com/BPRRG Alesha Capone

Maree Lang has been appointed as the managing director of Greater Western Water. The new water corporation will be created on July 1, when City West Water and Western Water are amalgamated. Ms Lang, who is managing director of City West Water, brings more than 23 years’ experience to her new position.

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Camera trial aims to stop abuse By Alesha Capone Store supervisors at four Woolworths supermarkets in the west will begin wearing body cameras to help deter customers from assaulting and abusing staff, as part of a nationwide trial. Woolworths’ director of stores, Rob Moffat, said the trial – which is being rolled out at 11 supermarkets across Australia – follows a doubling in reports of assaults against employees last year. The cameras will be trialled at supermarkets

‘‘

Nobody deserves to be abused at work

’’

- Rob Moffat

in Hoppers Crossing, Millers Junction at Altona North, St Albans and Sunshine Marketplace. An Abbotsford store will also trial the cameras. Woolworths has placed signage in each of the stores to inform customers of the camera trial. “We’re trialling team safety cameras in

a small number of stores to see if they can help prevent assaults and abuse of our team members,” Mr Moffat said. “The cameras will only be turned on as a last resort if a supervisor is concerned about a threat to team safety. “Nobody deserves to be abused at work, so it’s important we look at new measures to help keep our team members safe. “These cameras are used widely in retail across the US and UK and have been effective in reducing the rate of reported incidents.” The cameras need to be turned on to capture footage, and audio will not be recorded.

Any recordings filmed at the supermarkets will be stored securely on Australian servers, and access to the footage will be limited to a small team of Woolworths security experts and law enforcement agencies. The National Retail Association released a report last year revealing more than 85 per cent of workers in the industry were being abused verbally or physically almost daily. The association reported that panic-buying, sparked by the COVID pandemic, had contributed to a rise in customers harassing retail workers during 2020.

Workshop a sweet treat For Julie Tran, teaching an annual cupcake decorating workshop at the Iramoo Community Centre is always a sweet occasion. Mrs Tran, a cake, cupcake and macaroon maker, runs a business named Sweets In Bloom from her Tarneit home. For the past five years, Mrs Tran has taught a cupcake decorating session at the Wyndham Vale community centre during Neighbourhood House Week. During the COVID pandemic last year, instead of taking the workshop in-person, Mrs Tran filmed an instructional video which the community centre posted online. Mrs Tran said she was looking forward to once again taking the workshop in person, on Wednesday, May 12, from 10am-noon. “What I enjoy most about the workshop [is] I get to talk to people – usually baking cakes, it’s a very solitary pastime,” she said. Mrs Tran said she worked as a registered

psychiatrist for nine years, but became a full-time cake maker in 2018 after she developed a love of baking treats for her son’s birthdays. Mrs Tran said she enjoyed engaging with customers on social media, putting up videos of her baking “mistakes”. “I always post my fails and my customers seem to love that,” Mrs Tran said. To attend the workshop, contact 8742 3688 or admin@iramoocc.com.au. Cost: $5. Alesha Capone

Julie Tran with her sweets. (Joe Mastroianni) 234955_04

5 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 28 April, 2021

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Station of icially opens A new $5.4 million fire station in Tarneit was officially opened by the state government last week. Located at 417 Derrimut Road, the station has been operating since November 2019 but the official opening was put on hold during the bushfires of 2019-20 and COVID-19 pandemic. Firefighters from the Tarneit fire station supported strike teams and incident management teams across Victoria and New South Wales during the 2019-20 bushfire season.

‘‘

welcome this investment into essential firefighting services - Sarah Connolly

’’

Tarneit MP Sarah Connolly and Parliamentary Secretary for Police and Emergency Services Paul Edbrooke attended the station opening last week, along with Fire Rescue Victoria and CFA representatives. The new station spans about 4900 square metres. It has four engine bays, plus facilities and bedrooms for up to six career firefighters per shift. It also includes an administration office, day room, kitchen, gym and operational support areas, such as a breathing apparatus cleaning area, laundry, drying room, workshop and turn-out areas. The Tarneit station will support the Hoppers Crossing station, which will continue to operate as a CFA brigade providing support to areas including Truganina, Werribee and Hoppers Crossing. Ms Connolly said Tarneit’s population was expected to double, reaching 64,000 resients by 2031. “Tarneit is a rapidly growing area

The new Tarneit fire station was officially opened last week. Above: Sarah Connolly and Paul Edbrooke at the opening. (Pictures: Supplied)

and I strongly welcome this investment into essential firefighting services to serve the local community,” Ms Connolly said. Mr Edbrooke said the Tarneit station was an exciting and important development in the rapidly growing western suburbs. “Firefighters play a vital role in protecting life and property, and it’s crucial that they have the facilities to carry out their duties,” he said.

Empire strikes at The Grove A $45 million town centre featuring a supermarket, cafes and restaurants will be constructed within The Grove, Tarneit. Frasers Property Australia sold the site of the estate’s future town centre, including two lots totalling three hectares, to Empire Properties earlier this month. The estimated cost of the town centre, including land acquisition, is $45 million. Frasers Property Australia general manager development Victoria, Sarah Bloom, said that the company would work with Empire Properties to design the town centre. “This important deal ensures that planning work commences immediately, with construction of The Grove town centre to commence within 12 months of the plans being endorsed,” Ms Bloom said. Empire Properties managing director Tony Masa said that planning was under way for construction of the centre, with a projected completion date of mid-to-late 2020. “The new 5200 square metre centre will service a catchment of around 15,000 people in one of Australia’s fastest growing regions, so it was an exciting project for Empire Properties to secure and equally so to develop,” Mr Masa said. The Grove will eventually become home to 8000 residents. The community is already well-established with more than 1200 land lots sold.

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6 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 28 April, 2021

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Unclaimed super tops $66 million By Alesha Capone Wyndham residents are owed $66.90 million in lost and unclaimed superannuation, according to Australian Taxation Office data. According to the ATO, there was $13.8 billion in lost of unclaimed super across Australia as of June 30, 2020. Federal Superannuation, Financial Services, Digital Economy and Women’s Economic Security Minister Jane Hume

urged Australians to check the ATO website to see if they have money in an unknown or long-lost superannuation account. According to the ATO website, workers could have lost or unclaimed super if they have changed their name, moved jobs, changed address, or forgotten to update personal details with their super fund. The 3030 postcode, which covers Point Cook, Werribee, Werribee South and Derrimut, has the highest amount of lost and

unclaimed super, worth more than $33.48 million. The postcode has 7690 individual lost super accounts. The 3029 postcode, which covers Hoppers Crossing, Tarneit and Truganina, has $25.16 million in lost and unclaimed super. Wyndham Vale, Manor Lakes, Mambourin and Mount Cottrell residents have $6.67 million in lost and unclaimed super, while Williams Landing residents are owed $959,155

and Littler River residents $666,245. Ms Hume said it was free to check online to see if you have any lost or unclaimed superannuation. Between November, 2019 and February, 2021, almost 3.3 million Australians were reunited with their lost and unclaimed super accounts. For more information or to search for lost and unclaimed super, visit, ww.ato.gov.au or call 13 28 65.

Crops help feed families Vegetables have been planted in Werribee Mansion’s historic parterre gardens to help feed vulnerable families. The flower beds are being used to grow rainbow chard and silverbeet which will be harvested to use in meals. The first vegetables of the season were planted on Monday by members of Werribee’s Sikh and Karen communities. Once grown, the vegetables will be sent to community groups which provide food to disadvantaged people, including a Sikh temple which produces 1000 free meals every week for anyone in need. Werribee Park area chief ranger James Brincat said the initiative began as a plan to put a green crop into the parterre gardens to rest the soil from the nutrient-thirsty flowering crops it usually hosts. Mr Brincat said the initiative began with the Working Beyond the Boundaries partnership between Parks Victoria and refugee settlement agency AMES Australia.

“We came up with the idea to put in coloured silverbeet which would give us a colourful show as well as organic matter to turn into the soil,” he said. “But when the COVID-19 crisis came along we were presented with the possibility of food shortages or an increase in disadvantaged, refugee and asylum seeker families going without food over winter. “So, we took things a step further and decided that rather than ploughing the plants back into the soil, we’d harvest them and donate them to community kitchens cooking meals for disadvantaged groups in our community.” More than 3000 kilograms of vegetables were harvested from the parterre gardens last year.

The first vegetables of the season were planted by members of Werribee’s Sikh and Karen communities. (Supplied)

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Hub to help create a green future By Alesha Capone A $7 million innovation hub, which will develop green solutions involving waste, packaging, construction and water management, has officially opened at Victoria University’s Werribee campus. Higher Education Minister Gayle Tierney, Werribee MP Tim Pallas and the university’s vice-chancellor Adam Shoemaker attended the event earlier this month. The state government contributed $4.9 million to The Sustainable Futures Innovation

Hub. Thirteen new jobs have been created at the hub. “The hub will provide a home for sustainable innovation, opportunities to collaborate across research, industry and the community, and ultimately bolster our economy,” Mr Pallas said. The hub is part of a broader Victoria University initiative, named VU RISE (Recover, Innovate, Sustain, Evolve), to help Melbourne’s west recover from the COVID-19 pandemic by improving long-term productivity, workforce needs and economic and social development.

“This is an unique and exciting opportunity to work with the Victorian government and our partners in the west and beyond to create a brighter future – using sustainable solutions to complex problems,” Professor Shoemaker said. The hub will be home to a program in which the university collaborates with the Wadawurrung, Boonwurrung and Woiwurrung people and the local community, through the Wunggurrwil Dhurrung Centre in Wyndham Vale. Researchers will work with Australia’s traditional land owners who have boundaries along the Werribee River, and

related groups, to help with water management decisions and developing strategies for water loss reduction from supply pipes. The hub will also be a place for the research and development of responsible packaging, such as bio-packaging created from agricultural waste and pavement created from recycled plastic and glass. Another project the hub will focus on is developing prototype smart technology tools which improve quality control and inspection procedures in construction, plus education and training on health and safety risks to minimise workplace accidents in the industry.

Help learning English The Language Cafe program run by Wyndham Libraries offers residents a fun and friendly space to practice speaking English. Wyndham council’s library programs and services co-ordinator Elizabeth Arkles said the Language Café program gave people an opportunity to “practice English conversation skills with other learners using fun activities and conversation starters”. “Language Café participants enjoy learning about each other’s different cultures and experiences, the laughter and the sense of community – cooking is always a popular topic for discussion,” Ms Arkles said. The Language Café sessions are run at the Point Cook Library, Julia Gillard Library Tarneit and Hoppers Crossing Library weekly. An online Language Café session also runs every Thursday from 12.30-1.30pm. “We’ve had people from many different cultural backgrounds in Language Café

including Spanish, Swedish, Iranian, Chinese, Indian, Japanese and German,” Ms Arkles said. “People from different walks of life are also attending the sessions – exchange students, grandparents, new migrants, and job seekers. Everyone is welcome.” Ms Arkles said Wyndham Libraries offered resources in both print and digital to support people who want to learn English, including study support for children, youth and adults. “There are also items in the most popular community languages for people to read in their own language such as Chinese and Hindi,” she said. Bookings are required to attend the Language Cafe. Details: www.wyndham.vic. gov.au/libraries or 8734 0200. Alesha Capone Oana, Arthur Christopoulos, Tracy and Claudine. (Joe Mastroianni) 234023_01

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Michael Magrath with Moonlit Sanctuary avian threatened species co-ordinator Ashley Herrod and DELWP project co-ordinator Rachel Pritchard. Inset: Orange-bellied parrots being released. (Supplied)

Rare breed recovering Orange-bellied parrots have been released into the wild as part of a trial to help boost the population of the endangered species. About 36 of the brightly-coloured birds were set free at the Spit Nature Conservation Reserve near Werribee’s Western Treatment Plant, the Bellarine Peninsula and Western Port Bay last Wednesday. During the first four years of the trial, 80 captive-bred birds were released to join up with migrating wild birds which fly from Tasmania to breeding grounds on the mainland. The trial is being delivered by the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP), Zoos Victoria and Moonlit Sanctuary, which bred the parrots. “At Moonlit, our breeding and training program is something we’re really proud of, so it’s exciting

to see releases like this happening to protect the endangered orange-bellied parrot in the wild,” sanctuary director Michael Johnson said. Zoos Victoria senior research manager Michael Magrath said the released parrots have tiny radio-tracking tags attached to their legs, to help monitor their progress. The trial has been supported by $255,000 from the state government’s Biodiversity On-Ground Action Icon Species Grants program, $200,000 from the federal government’s National Landcare Program, $115,000 from Zoos Victoria and $60,000 from Moonlit Sanctuary. Victorian Energy, Environment and Climate Change Minsiter Lily D’Ambrosio said the orange-bellied parrot was one of the world’s rarest birds. Alesha Capone

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Belinda with new-born son Oliver, and two year-old Arlo. Both boys were born outside of Wyndham, but spent time as patients in Werribee Mercy Hospital’s Special Care Nursery. (Joe Mastroianni) 226335_01

By Alesha Capone Demand for birthing suites at Werribee Mercy Hospital has reached capacity. The hospital welcomed 3833 babies in 2020, slightly lower than the 3888 babies delivered there in 2019. Health services chief executive Jason Payne said Werribee Mercy Hospital’s birthing numbers had remained steady over the past two years because the birthing suites were unable to accommodate any more expectant mums. He said some pregnant women within the Werribee Mercy Hospital catchment are

being forced to use services at public hospitals outside the area. “The demand exists for Werribee Mercy Hospital to deliver more babies locally but this cannot occur without expanded facilities,” Mr Payne said. “It would be preferable that local families had access to more of the best high quality and safe public birthing services at Werribee Mercy Hospital, so they don’t have to travel.” Mr Payne said planning was under way to boost the capacity of the birthing suites. “A third stage of Werribee Mercy Hospital, which is currently in the final stages of planning, will involve the creation of more

birthing suites, additional post-natal beds, and other ante and post-natal facilities, accompanied by additional midwifery and nursing staff. “Based on demand for existing maternity services, it is projected that Werribee Mercy Hospital would be well placed to meet an anticipated increase in demand of up to 30 per cent more babies in the western metro area.” Mr Payne said Mercy Health has been working with the Victorian Health and Human Services Building Authority and the Department of Health and Human Services since 2016 to prepare for the future needs of Werribee Mercy.

In November’s state budget, $4.8 million was allocated to finalise planning for the third stage of the hospital’s development. “We have acknowledged publicly the funding was a clear sign the voices of the people of the west of Melbourne are being heard and government is committed to meeting a major upgrade,” Mr Payne said. Mercy Health Group chief executive, Adjunct Professor Stephen Cornelissen, said the next stage of Werribee Mercy Hospital’s construction required $300 million in funding “to ensure the people of Wyndham receive the level and quality of health services they deserve and need”.

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Full house at Mercy

On Sunday I was honoured to join the members of the Werribee RSL and lay a wreath the Werribee cenotaph for ANZAC Day. This solemn occasion was an important reminder of all those men and women who have made sacrifices, especially those who gave their lives, so that we can live in freedom. As we continue to recover from COVID-19, I am looking forward to a full dawn service in the future. By recognising the tragedies of the past we hope to ensure that we do not repeat them. On behalf of everyone at Council, thank you to all those who have defended Australia in war times and peace. Last week Council farewelled Kelly Grigsby, who has served our community with remarkable dedication and enthusiasm as Wyndham City CEO over the last eight years. Kelly has a long list of achievements to be proud of, but I’d particularly like to highlight her tireless work that helped protect our community and Council staff during the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic. While Wyndham recorded the most cases in the country, Kelly rallied staff to ensure that gaps in State and Federal government services were filled. Our community kitchen delivered meals and care packages to families in need, while Council officers helped to secure extra testing sites. Our community is now in a strong position to rebuild from this pandemic, and it is Kelly’s leadership and responsiveness that has helped to ensure this. Best of luck for the future Kelly. You will be missed. Last week we also appointed Natalie Walker as our Acting CEO. Natalie has most recently worked as Council’s Director, Strategy and Policy Impact, and has spent considerable time assisting Councillors to develop our new Council Plan. Natalie will help guide Council through the next phase as we recruit a new CEO to deliver the best possible outcomes for the local community. Regards,Cr Adele Hegedich

Wyndham Civic Centre 45 Princes Highway Werribee (PO Box 197) Vic 3030 1300 023 411

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NEWS

Sensors improve road safety Sensors and high definition cameras, which can tell how many people are waiting to walk across a pedestrian crossing, will be installed at 75 locations across the state including near a Werribee school. The state government last week announced the new technology was being rolled out across Melbourne’s west, east and south. The cameras, to be installed under a $340 million investment in the state’s roads, will also be able to adjust crossing times according to how many people are waiting next to a pedestrian walkway.

‘‘

help keep some of our most vulnerable road users safe - Ben Carroll

’’

The technology will be installed at a pedestrian crossing near Heathdale Christian College in Werribee, along with other sites which experience high volumes of pedestrian traffic or are located close to train stations. The sensor technology has already been

installed at three pedestrian crossings on Synnot Street in Werribee, including at Bridge Street and Duncans Road, and at three Hoppers Crossing locations along Derrimut Road and Heaths Road. Sensors are in the process of being put in near the intersection of Derrimut Road and Warringa Drive in Hoppers Crossing and are being installed near Good News College on Tarneit Road, Tarneit and at the intersection of Sayers and Marquands roads, Truganina. Roads and Road Safety Minister Ben Carroll

said: “These important upgrades will help keep some of our most vulnerable road users safe, and improve efficiency and traffic flow during busy school drop-off and pick-up times. “We all have a responsibility to keep Victorian kids safe as they get to and from school – even a small reduction in speed could save a child’s life.” As part of the state and federal governments’ $19.5 million Pedestrian and Safer Schools Program, extra electronic speed signs have also been erected near 55 schools across the state.

Online shopping booms For the sixth year in a row, Point Cook has been named the top spot for online shopping nationally. Hoppers Crossing came in at number three. Australia Post’s recent 2021 Inside Australian Online Shopping report provided a detailed look at the key insights and trends during 2020. Australia Post parcel and express services general manager Ben Franzi said COVID-19 and subsequent restrictions made online shopping an essential in 2020. “Australians spent an incredible $50.5 billion online last year, and eCommerce accounted for 16.3 per cent of total retail spend,” Mr Franzi said. “Almost nine million households across the country bought something online as people shopped for the things they needed, avoiding large shopping centres and other busy retail settings. “More than 1.3 million of these households

were first-time shoppers, with 93 per cent of their initial purchases made between March and December. “Shoppers are more engaged and comfortable buying online than ever before and this trend has continued into 2021. “We’re seeing around five million households continue to buy on a monthly basis which is 1.1 million more than the average in 2019.” Food and liquor, and home and garden products were the leading categories in the survey, up 77 per cent and 70 per cent respectively in year-on-year purchase growth. Victoria led overall state growth – up 82 per cent – attributed to going through the longest lockdowns last year. Michaela Meade

Postal worker Nikki Rowarth. (Damjan Janevski) 233268_03

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MY WYNDHAM Trish Padoin grew up in Werribee and works at Thomas Carr College in Tarneit. She talks with Alesha Capone.

How long have you worked at Thomas Carr College, and what do you enjoy about working at the school? I’ve been there for a year now. I joined at the time where we were in the earlier stages of the COVID-19 lockdown and all of the students were learning at home. It was an interesting time. I really enjoy my job – lots of variety, great staff and students to work with and I’m proud of promoting the college to the Wyndham community. I’m inspired by the teachers who inspire our students to go that extra mile. I’m very much looking forward to finally seeing a full stage production by our students this year. They are currently in rehearsal for ‘Matilda the Musical’, which opens May 27. How much has the school changed during your time there? The college continues to grow. The most obvious change that I’ve seen in the last year is the students are now more on-site, than learning at home. It’s great to see that events are back in full force and in turn keeping staff extremely busy. I look forward to seeing a lot of new developments at the college over the next couple of years. What do you like about living in Wyndham?

I love to take my dog Stella for long walks along Werribee River and Werribee South beach. I have a great love for nature so being amongst both the trees and the ocean is super relaxing for me. You grew up in the area – can you tell me what that was like? When I was young, all the neighbourhood kids would be playing out on the streets together, biking, skating, going to the park until dark. The Italian community was very social when I was young, and as a family we spent many weekends at social functions and events, particularly at the Italian Sports Club. Has Wyndham changed a lot since your childhood? It has changed so much. When I was growing up, there was limited traffic on the roads and it was easy to find a carpark. Werribee plaza was new and Tarneit was only paddocks and farms. Tell me a bit more about your family. My brother Frank operates a long-running panel beaters’ business in Werribee South called Impressive Panels and my dad Bruno and brother Andrew have done a lot of local carpentry and building work in the Wyndham area. My mum Emma was a constant presence in the first 20 years of business at the Italian Sports Club, working as a cook, waitress and host, along with many other roles. Do you have a favourite Wyndham cafe, restaurant or coffee place? One of my favourite local haunts is The Bridge Hotel. I love going there to have dinner and drinks with friends. I also can’t resist Bellissima Italian Pantry.

(Damjan Janevski) 235025_01

Can you tell me a bit about yourself? I was born and bred in Werribee, with Italian heritage. Both my parents, Bruno and Emma, were Italian migrants and settled in Werribee after they married in 1960. I attended both St Andrews and Corpus Christi primary schools, and then went to MacKillop College. I currently live in Wyndham with my son Seth and my dog Stella. I work as the marketing and development manager at Thomas Carr College.

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12 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 28 April, 2021

Advertising feature

Enduring friendship flourishes at Wyndham Grange It all began when Mary took a freshly cooked batch of scones to welcome her new neighbours in Kealba, in those days not much more than open spaces. It was the start of an amazing friendship between Mary and her husband Barry and Gayle and hubby Wally that’s now spanned 48 years. The couples, who had a gate between their homes, have been on 15 cruises together, explored Asia and Europe together, share a very active social life, and every Christmas swap gifts of $500 to go towards their annual trek to Lake Fyans near Ararat. The couples have two sons and two daughters between them who grew up as fast friends and remain so today. The parents and kids wore a track through that shared gate, and acted like one big family. Mary, 72, who still works as a mobile hairdresser, takes up their story. “Barry and I were looking into moving into an over-55s community about 10 years ago, but Gayle and Wally weren’t ready to take the plunge then,” says Mary. “But I’d looked around extensively for the right place and when I found RCA Wyndham Grange, we knew it was the right fit. “Gayle and Wally eventually agreed, and we moved in on April 1 this year – in neighbouring villas, of course!” Gayle, 69, who loves being on her computer and enjoys making quilts, says the village is “really fantastic”. “It’s a pleasure to be here in all aspects,” she says. “We all love our beautiful villas which we had a say in their final finishes, the gardens and the creek are gorgeous, and our other neighbours are an incredibly friendly bunch. “We all enjoy the happy hours around the fabulous bar and can gather there with up to

Dynamic quartet: Barry and Mary (back) and Wally and Gayle; The couples love their villas. (Pictures: Supplied)

100 people some nights. We go dancing (the room has a great dance floor), something Mary particularly loves, and have a great time.” While Wally, 70, loves his golf at the local club, Barry, 75, is into swimming so the pool at the village is his port of choice. Each social-animal couple says that they value being able to hold private parties in the village’s clubhouse, as well as having shopping and

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transport close by. Mary, who hopes to join the democratically elected committee that steers a lot of decisions made at the village, says that apart from every other good thing about Wyndham Grange, there were two more important factors for the couples. “We found that the monthly fees are considerably cheaper than other places, and we

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Unlocking artistic potential Oliver Lees talks with some performers who are carving their own path on stage.

nside the Memorial Hall in Sunbury, Andrew Nicolaides is delivering an unconventional, yet thunderous drum solo. Surrounded by his peers of the BoilOver Performance Ensemble, Nicolaides is using state-of-the-art sensory technology to rehearse a section from the troupe’s upcoming performance entitled Buoy. Established in 2009, BoilOver is the brainchild of Bernadette Hetherington who saw the need for an inclusive theatre company based in Sunbury, one that provided a creative outlet and professional skill development in a safe and supportive environment. Buoy is the company’s newest work, which creative producer Carmen Maddison says was inspired by the performers experience of coronavirus lockdown and how their art brought balance to their lives. “BoilOver itself is a creative family, where people can bring to life their creative ideas,” she said. “The word ‘Buoy’ is used to explore the idea of what keeps us afloat. “The consequences of Covid were a lot more real for people with disabilities, as many have underlying health conditions that forced a stricter lockdown.

‘‘

all artists have important creative offerings

’’

- Carmen Maddison “For someone like Andrew, his painting and his dancing, that creative expression is really what kept him going.” In order to bring their dream to life, BoilOver has drawn on external resources of Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health and received funding from Brimbank City Council. Research team SensiLab, based out of Monash University, has been tailoring its sensory technology specifically to BoilOver’s artistic needs. Among its inventions is the Air Stick. To the naked eye, the Air Stick appears to be a simple drum stick, but in fact it’s rigged with sensor technology that allows whoever is wielding it to create a percussive performance without the need to strike a drum kit. The technology means that performers such as Nicolaides can engage with musical instruments, which is often difficult for someone with a disability. PhD student and composer Ciaran Frame is the mastermind behind the Air Stick. His research explores autonomy in musical instruments and he’s loved putting his creative project into practice. “It’s a lot of fun,” he said, watching a performer using the equipment. “It’s a way for the music to interact with the art form and to personalise that to each individual performer is special. “We try to cater to people’s needs and find ways they can best enjoy the technology.” Sam Trolland and Alon Ilsar are fellow researchers at SensiLab and have created a visual element to accompany Frame’s audio technology. Playing off of Buoy’s oceanic theme, Trolland has incorporated video footage of the ocean into the performance, with a projection of a wave scene lighting up the roof and a screen at the front of the hall. On either side of the stage, Trolland has placed two depth sensors which react to the performers by projecting their image on the screen. It creates an effect that the performer is in the water itself, manipulating the waves. Trolland said this type of project, that creates an immersive environment, is his favourite to work on. “It’s really amazing seeing people wanting to engage with the technology,” he said. BoilOver has also employed the aerial expertise of Fleur Dean, of physical theatre ensemble 5angrymen. Dean will be assisting the cast create an aerial 14 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 28 April, 2021

Main: BoilOver performance ensemble members Karen Cleur, Andrew Nicolaides, Jaumie-Lee McMahon, Savannah Coots and Jacquelyn Hughes in rehearsal. (Damjan Janevski) 234733_03

Above: Alon Ilser experimenting with SensiLab technology. Right: Shanah Robinson in rehearsal using aerial equipment. (Pictures: Supplied) Top right: BoilOver ensemble performers Savannah Coots and Andrew Nicolaides. (Supplied/Matt Gleeson 3 Chord Images) Far right: Stage manager Justin O’Brien. (Oliver Lees)

performance, using rigging and harnesses to add another dimension. Having worked for years in the performing arts, Dean said she’s enjoyed shifting her focus to working with disabled performers. “Disability performing arts is a largely untapped sector,” she said. “It’s refreshing in its nature, working with people who haven’t had every opportunity handed to them, there is a freshness and a buoyancy to their attitude.” The BoilOver team is made up of more than just performers. Stage manager Justin O’Brien is tasked with making sure everything runs smoothly backstage. “It’s like a jigsaw puzzle,” he said, wearing his black and white ‘stage manager’ cap. “I make sure everybody comes on and off stage at the right time with the right costumes, it’s important because you have to get the

audience hooked.” Creative director Maddison says she and O’Brien have a special bond that helps the performance tick. “Justin has a cochlear implant which is actually quite useful for stage management, because I can speak directly into his ear piece,” she said. O’Brien has been with BoilOver for a few years and says he particularly enjoys the opportunity to make friends. “It’s a big adventure, we get to meet other people with disabilities and travel, one time we went to Geelong.” The feeling of camaraderie was shared by Savannah Coots, another performer who particularly enjoys making her own dance moves. “Everyone is so wonderful,” she said. Likewise Jaymie-lee McMahon said the program has allowed her to make new friends.

The company has been involved in a number of performances over the years, including a show at the Melba Spiegeltent for the Melbourne Fringe Festival in 2019. Creating a space where disabled performers can reach their artistic potential is the core purpose of the group, says Maddison, who stressed that at their best, BoilOver could put on a show as good as any. “I don’t refer to them as participants or clients, they are artists with their own unique expressions,” she said. “We believe all artists have important creative offerings and diverse abilities and it is our mission to push the boundaries and raise the bar of what artists living with a disability can achieve.” BoilOver will perform twice on Saturday, June 26 at the Bowery Theatre in St Albans. Bookings: https://creativebrimbank.com. au/buoy-by-boilover-inclusive-performanceensemble

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COMMUNITY

COMMUNITY CALENDAR WANT YOUR EVENT LISTED? Community Calendar is made available free of charge to not-for-profit organisations to keep the public informed of special events and activities. Send item details to Star Weekly Community Calendar, Corner Thomsons Road and Keilor Park Drive, Keilor Park, 3042, or email to westeditorial@starweekly.com.au by 9am Wednesday the week prior to publication.

Powder mill open day Friends of the Black Powder Mill in Cairnlea will hold an open day on Saturday, May 1, giving a glimpse into the mill’s past. Hear the history of gunpowder production at the site, see the machinery in operation and observe the firing of 19th century firearms, from 10.30am to 3.30pm. Talks and demonstrations at 11am and 1.30pm. Corner Parklea Avenue and Grassy Point Road, Cairnlea. ■ 0429 203 895 or foford54@tpg.com.au

Monster garage sale A monster garage sale is on at the Polish Hall, 6 Helene Street, Ardeer, on Saturday, May 1, 9am-1pm. All sorts of items available, including toys, books, tools, small furniture, clothing and kitchen utensils. ■ Krystyna, 0438 355 771

Tour Ziebell’s Farmhouse Tour Ziebell’s Farmhouse Museum and Heritage Garden, corner Ainwick Court and Gardenia Road, Thomastown, on Wednesday, May 5, 1-2.30pm. Cost $10. Bookings essential. ■ 0418 552 557 or enquiries@westgarthtown.org.au

The Ricky Nelson Show A musical tribute show for one of rock and roll’s brightest stars is coming to Taylors Lakes Secondary College on Saturday, May 8, from 7pm. The assistant principal of the school will be performing with a combination of archival footage and the sound of a live band. Bookings essential. ■ https://www.trybooking.com/BORUG

Through the lens Southern Mariners player Tom Brookes slides into third base during the recent baseball championships at Werribee. Photographer Damjan Janevski says it’s a good action photograph, where Brookes’ effort can be seen by the expression on his face.

Museum UNDONE A new immersive project with the Kyneton Museum collection engages with history and its gaps as part performance, part exhibition. Audiences are free to roam the 90 minute performance at 7pm Fridays and Saturdays, and from 5pm Sundays across June 2021 at Metanoia Theatre, 270 Sydney Road. Tickets are $25 per adult, $15 for concession/seniors, and $10 for children. ■ https://metanoiatheatre.com/event/ museum-undone/

Volunteers wanted The Multiple Sclerosis Community Visitors Scheme is seeking female Maltese and Italian-speaking volunteers to join its volunteer program in the Werribee and Point Cook areas to visit elderly residents in either an aged care facility or their own home. A female volunteer with an understanding of MS is also sought to visit a mature lady in an aged care facility in Altona Meadows. ■ volunteer@ms.org.au or Sue, 9845 2744

Zonta club meets The Zonta Club of Melton meets on the first Monday of each month at Melton Country Club, Reserve Road, Melton. ■ Suzanne, 0417 512 420

crochet projects and work on them while sharing tips, learning skills and catching up over a cuppa. ■ 9747 8576

AL-ANON meets Story times Encourage a love of reading and help your child develop their literacy skills at Braybrook library on Tuesdays and Footscray library on Wednesdays, from 11-11.30am. Or enjoy Story Time at Home via YouTube on Mondays from 11am. Suitable for children aged 2-5 years and their families. Bookings required. ■ www.maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/library

AL-ANON provides support for families and loved ones living with alcoholics and problem drinkers. The group meets Mondays at St Thomas Anglican Church foyer, 117 Synnot Street, Werribee, from 7.30pm, and on Tuesdays at the St Mary’s Tennis Club rooms, 204 Grimshaw Street, Greensborough. ■ 0412 432 760

Friendship Group Melton South Knit & Natter All welcome to join this social crafting group, running at the Melton South Community Centre each Monday from 10am-noon. Bring along any knitting or

Altona Day View Club (Voice Interest Education of Women) meets on the third Wednesday of each month at Altona RSL from 11am. ■ Janet, 0412 010 176 or 9394 6522

Women’s choir Computer and sewing classes

The Willin Wimmin choir meets Wednesdays during school terms at Church of Christ hall, corner John Street and Douglas Parade, Williamstown, from 7.30-9.30pm. There are no auditions and you don’t need to be able to read music. ■ willin.wimmin@gmail.com

Melton South Community Centre is offering a range of computer and sewing classes for term two. Classes start Monday, May 3. ■ 9747 8576 or www.meltonsouth.org.au

Probus club The Deer Park Combined Probus Club meets on the second Wednesday of each month at The Deer Park Club, 780 Ballarat Road, from 10am. New members and visitors welcome. ■ Don, 0409 191 580 Westgate Diabetes Support Group meets at 10am on the first Tuesday of the month at Altona Bowling Club, 113 Civic Parade, Altona. ■ Elaine, 0415 030 996

In collaboration with Miniroos, Sunshine Plaza is hosting a pop-up interactive soccer activities day. Free, family-friendly event. Kids are encouraged to show off their skills. Saturday, May 1, from 11am until 2pm at the Sunshine Plaza, 324/328 Hampshire Road, Sunshine.

Garden club The Sunbury Garden Club hosts a meeting on the first Tuesday of every month, with new visitors always welcome. There is a guest speaker at each meeting, which commences at 7.30pm at the Sunbury Football Club. ■ Cheryl, 9744 1663

Playing cards, making friends If you enjoy playing cards, meeting new friends, and keeping mentally fit, attend social bridge every Friday morning at the Melton library from 10am-noon. Beginners to experienced players are welcome. Melton Bridge Club also meets on Tuesday nights from 7-10pm at Arnolds Creek Community Centre. ■ Rosemary, 0407 894 817

Conservation volunteers Join the Friends of Cobbledicks Ford for conservation work in the reserve on the second Friday of the month, 10am-noon, March to October. Registrations open 9.30am in the carpark. BYO water bottle and gloves. Tools provided. ■ John 0407 546 235, cobbledicksford@gmail.com

Senior citizens club (Pictures: iStock)

Diabetes support

Interactive soccer

Senior citizens are welcome to visit the Sunbury Senior Citizens’ Club on Mondays, from noon-3pm at 8 O’Shannassy Street. Play indoor games and have your health checked by the council. If you’re over 60 years of age, come along. ■ Don, 9744 3507 15 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 28 April, 2021

COMMUNITY STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Out and about

Luke meeting Nathan Bu ckley at Avalon Airport Oval on April 17.

(Supplied)

Stockland Grandview’s Dinosaur Park hunt attracted a large crowd in Truganina last week. (Supplied)

1/ Ebony Elder and her daughter Imogen, 2, at the Save Our Services Australia Tri Services Cup, barbecue and family fun day. 2/ Brandon, 4, watches a duckling feed at the family fun day. 3/ Three-year-old Aria and mum Kirsty at the family fun day animal farm. 4/ Four-year-old Thalia. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 235230

Above: Support worker Shannon Purcell with Lochlan Baillie and Hannah Barkman, helped raise $2000 for The Good Friday Appeal. (Supplied)

5/ Caroline Springs Cub Scouts joined in the fun of the 10th Victorian Cuboree at Gilwell Park, near Gembrook, during the school holidays. 6/ The entrance to Pack 501’s camp site at Cuboree. 7/ Charlotte, Denni and Kate in their home away from home. 8/ Glorious mud. Josh after one of the activities. (Pictures: Supplied) 16 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 28 April, 2021

Left: Husband and wife Rakesh and Pavana of Manor Lakes, have spent some quality time visiting the sights of Werribee South with their children Khushal (nickname Lucky) and Hethvik (nickname Ricky). (Supplied)

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COMMENT

Zoo training has animals smiling Opportunity for visitors to watch animals voluntarily open their mouths for health checks.

Several animals at Werribee Open Range Zoo have impressively learned how to voluntarily open their mouths on a keeper’s cue, enabling them to participate in stress-free healthcare. The ‘open-mouth’ behaviour enables keepers and veterinarians to easily monitor the oral health of the zoo’s animals and provides an opportunity for teeth brushing, cleaning and the administering of any medical care. Hippopotamus, lions and a cheetah are among the species displaying their remarkable teeth while engaging in training sessions with their keepers. Werribee Open Range Zoo animal training co-ordinator Kelly Hobbs said the stress-free approach was a result of months of ongoing training, positive reinforcement and trust-building between keepers and the animals. “This trained behavior allows us to get a really good look at the animals’ oral and body health,” Ms Hobbs said. “It’s done in a way that’s safe for both keepers and animals, and builds a really nice trusting relationship between them. “Our animals also understand that if they present their mouths, they’ll get their favourite food afterwards.” Ms Hobbs said the innovative approach to animal care is now also being made accessible for visitors to see during a trip to the zoo. “The training sessions are occurring on display, which allows visitors to witness the

An African lion roaring, and two hippopotamus with mouths open waiting for food. (Pictures: Supplied/Zoos Victoria)

incredible care between keepers and animals first-hand. It’s an impressive sight when the animals open their jaws wide with their shiny pearly-whites in full view – and it’s all aimed at sharing our care for the animals and how we help keep them healthy and happy.” The open-mouth training is just one of the many methods keepers at Werribee Open Range Zoo are using to provide the most

positive, least intrusive care for its animals. Ms Hobbs said the importance of empowering animals to participate in their own healthcare through training is integral to each animals’ long-term wellbeing. “Empowerment can look like a number of things,” said Ms Hobbs. “It can look like an animal choosing not to participate in the training, which is perfectly fine, or that an

animal actively seeks out interactions with us. It can also mean decreased stress and better long-term healthcare outcomes.” Zoo members and visitors are reminded that all tickets to the zoo must be pre-booked at zoo. org.au. Jesse Failla, senior reporter, Werribee Open Range Zoo

Small change can make a big difference Connolly’s Corner by Sarah Connolly Welcome back to Connolly’s Corner. Allegations of sexual assault in the Commonwealth Parliament have ignited a long overdue public debate about the treatment of women in the workplace, and it’s clear to me that time is up. I have spent a lot of time recently reflecting on a lifetime of my own experiences – times I have been overlooked in the workplace, spoken over, ignored, belittled and the casual sexism I’ve endured. I was even reminded of when I was first running for Parliament and was taken aback to find a local that refused to meet myself before meeting my husband Scott. But you know what, it wasn’t that surprising. Sexism is alive and well in modern day Australia – and it must end. A task the Andrews Labor government is committed to by reducing gender inequities and fostering a positive environment for women in the workplace. And we’re not just going to talk about it. We’re getting on with the job and taking action to create a fairer, more inclusive, and safer society for every Victorian. Just last year, we passed the Gender Equality Act making gender equality a key objective of the Victorian public service. We also appointed a Gender Equality Commissioner to assist government departments in the promotion of gender equality. The commissioner will make key recommendations on workplace sexual harassment policy, how to reduce gender bias in hiring decisions, and ensure women have guaranteed representation on decision-making bodies. It makes me proud to be part of a government that takes issues like this seriously, one that is committed to fighting family violence in our community. So far, almost two-thirds

Sarah Connolly has established a Young Women’s Roundtable. (Supplied)

of the 227 recommendations of the Royal Commission into Family Violence have now been implemented. Because we know we can do better as a community, and we must. One of these recommendations being the establishment of the Orange Door Network, which is set to be rolled out in Melbourne’s west and benefit Wyndham next year. The

Orange Door Network is a vital, and tailored service where people of any age or gender can seek assistance and support when experiencing family violence. We have come a long way on the path to equality, though there is still a way to go – and at times it can be the smallest changes that make all the difference. That’s why I established a Young Women’s

Roundtable in partnership with our local high schools to facilitate discussions with leaders in year 11 and 12. We’ve had insightful debates on gender in politics, harassment and discrimination in the workplace, and local issues. These confident young women don’t shy away from the big issues, always leaving me excited about the future of our country and the massing potential of the next generation. 17 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 28 April, 2021

Property news

Is property investment for you? Many people consider investing in property in the hope of bringing wealth to their lives. While there are many alternatives such as stocks, bonds and cash, property investment tends to be viewed as one of the safest and easiest options. According to realestateview.com.au, property investment isn’t for everyone. If you are considering investing in property, it is essential to weigh up the pros and cons. THE PROS Capital growth – The value of your property will grow over time and may be extremely beneficial financially if well chosen. Not only will you benefit from steady capital growth, but regular monthly rental returns.

Mitigate risk – You can insure your asset against most risks; fire, damage, a tenant leaving, damaging your property. Anyone can invest – You do not have to possess a vast amount of knowledge, as you may with stocks or opening up a business. Control – Unlike other investments, you are in full control of your property investment; you can make all the decisions and have control over all of your returns. Tax benefits – Although tax benefits should

(iStock)

A safe investment – This is the only investment market that is not dominated by investors, creating a natural buffer in the market. It is also the most forgiving investment; if you purchase the worst house in the area, the chances are that its value will still increase over time. not be used as a decision-making factor, it can be a benefit of investing in property. THE CONS Liquidity – Although you can sell your property if things get tough, the process is not as quick as selling other investments such as shares. Hidden and ongoing costs – Along with the initial costs of investing in property (i.e. stamp-duty, deposit, legal and conveyance fees), you will need to consider the ongoing hidden costs of property investment such

as fitting out the property, maintenance and repairs, building and landlord insurance, land tax, water rates, council rates, etc. Other investments, such as shares, do not incur ongoing fees.

payments and sometimes even refuse to leave the property. Some disputes can take months to resolve and become very stressful, especially if there is an emotional attachment to the property.

Rent-free periods – During the periods when you cannot find a tenant and the property is vacant, you will need to cover the mortgage repayments.

Other costs – Although negative gearing may offer tax deductions, you will need to consider and budget for the shortfall between repayments and rental income, as well as the cost to cover repayments when the property is vacant.

Bad tenants – Problematic tenants are every owner’s nightmare. They can severely damage your property, refuse to make

Source: realestateview.com.au

With nearly 20 years’ experience helping families find their home, realestateview.com.au is the trusted source for property.

VISIT US TODAY

28 Third Avenue Hoppers Crossing A substantial residence of exceptional quality, this 1970s darling is an extraordinary property filled with nostalgia. The 24 square (approx.) footprint encompasses spacious living, dining and kitchen zones, four bedrooms, two bathrooms and single car accommodation. Positioned within a quiet and familyoriented neighbourhood, this property is minutes from major retailers, quality schools and public transport.

Auction Saturday 1st May at 11:30AM View

By Appointment ljhooker.com.au/23Q6HGH Contact

Paul Caine 0421 551 051 John Camilleri 0414 778 940

LJ Hooker Point Cook 9975 7080 All information contained herein is gathered from sources we consider to be reliable. However, we cannot guarantee or give away warranty about the information provided. Interested parties must solely rely on their own enquiries.

18 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 28 April, 2021

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19 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 28 April, 2021

F th kid

Find it

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

Cook it BLACKBERRY AND MUESLI BREAKFAST MUFFINS

Ingredients 2 eggs 1 cup buttermilk 1/4 cup extra light olive oil 1 cup rolled oats 1 1/4 cups wholemeal flour 1/2 cup brown sugar 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

1/2 tsp bicarbonate of soda 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped and toasted (optional) 2 tbs sesame seeds 2 tbsp pumpkin seeds 1 cup blackberries, chopped

Method 1. Whisk the eggs, buttermilk and oil together. 2. In a separate bowl, combine all remaining ingredients. Tip the wet ingredient mixture into this bowl. 3. Mix until just combined and then spoon into paper cases. 4. Bake for 20 minutes or until muffins are golden on top. 5. Let cool on a wire rack and enjoy! TIP: These can be frozen to keep as a handy breakfast on the go. Recipe from www.kidspot.com.au

Make it SAND ART

y when it saw What did the ocean sa the beach? Nothing, it just waved!

Method 1. Draw an outline of a picture on the paper (or use one already done from a colouring book or a printed one) 2. Use the paintbrush to apply glue to one section of the picture. 3. Choose a colour and sprinkle the sand lightly onto the section covered in glue. Shake off excess sand. Continue doing this in sections with different sand colours until the picture is complete. Hold paper above the parts already done to make it easier to keep colours it in the section you want until they dry. 4. Let dry completely and shake off excess sand. TIP: Laminate sand art to protect it and avoid sandy mess as it hangs on the fridge. You can also use glitter for this activity.

12491965-DL18-21

g n j o k i t s u j

You will need Paper (or page with an outline drawing on it) Paintbrush Coloured sand (a few colours) Craft glue

Subscribe to our digital editions at www.starweekly.com.au

12491972-CG19-21

20 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 28 April, 2021

PUZZLES No. 026

To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.

easy

7 9 6 8

1 3

6 8 5 6 1 8 3 7 4 9 2 3 2 6 9 3 7 7 3 9 2 medium

6 9

4 5 3

QUICK CROSSWORD ACROSS

DOWN

Counter-intelligence (9) Employer (colloq) (4) Separates with a sieve (5) Decision-making group (9) Denial (8) Duds (6) Pitfall (4) Huge statues (10) Artists who embrace postclassical styles (10) Circle of light (4) Variety of nut (6) Plane hubs (8) Bandit (9) Fraudulent schemes (5) Appendage (4) Sponsor (9)

1 6 10 11 12 13 15 16 19 21 22 24 27 28 29 30

No. 026

Protect (9) Implant (5) Cemetery (10) Courageous (4) Excel (5) Appears to be (5) Apple drinks (6) Refuge (7) Lucky (10) Methods of travel between floors (9) Husbands or wives (7) Staggered (6) Military student (5) Japanese dish (5) Sat (5) Italian meatbased sauce (4)

2 3 4 5 7 8 9 10 14 17 18 20 22 23 25 26

DECODER

No. 026

3 2 1 4 7 9 4 2 4 5 3 6 9 1 7 2 6 9 5 9 1 6 5 8 7 hard

6 3 7 6

8 7

8 1

9 2

10 11 12 13

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

D T 19

5 LETTERS ADORE AHEAD ALOUD AORTA ATONE CELLO CIRCA EASEL EATEN EDGED EDGES ERASE ERODE ERRED EVADE EVICT EXERT GENES HASTE LILLY

Today’s Aim: 37 words: Good 56 words: Very good

1 5 7 9 4 3 2 6 8

2 3 9 4 5 6 8 1 7

No. 026 Insert the missing letters to make 10 words – five reading across the grid and five reading down. NOTE: more than one solution may be possible

E K S

N E A D

O M F Y P E R A I L E R

No. 026

TENOR TESTS TOPIC TRUNK TSARS URINE USAGE USING VENUE

MAUVE OCTAL ORBIT POSTS RAGER READS RISEN ROUGE SATIN SCALD SEEPS SILOS SLIDE SOLAR SONGS SPENT START STEEL STOVE SUEDE TACOS

6 LETTERS ENDERS ENSURE SNEAKS SNEAKY

7 LETTERS ABUSING DREDGES GRADING ISSUING PASSION RIDDING 8 LETTERS DEVOURED DIVULGED IDEOLOGY YODELLED

30-04-21

C O O

4 7 5 8 3 1 6 9 2

5 4 2 1 6 8 9 7 3 8 1 6 2 3 7 5 9 4

abed, abet, abets, absent, bade, band, bands, bandy, bane, bans, banter, banters, bard, bards, bare, bared, bares, barest, barn, bars, base, based, baser, bast, baste, basted, bate, bated, bates, bayed, bays, bead, beads, beady, bean, bear, beard, bears, beast, beat, beats, bend, bent, best, beta, betray, betrays, bets, brad, brads, brae, bran, brand, brands, brandy, brat, bray, brayed, brays, bread, breast, bred, brent, byre, BYSTANDER, byte, dabs, debar, debars, debt, derby, drab, nearby, sabre, stab, standby

8 1 6 2 7 9 3 5 4

5 3 2 9 6 4 7 1 8

9 2 4 6 8 7 1 3 5

3 6 8 7 9 4 5 2 1

7 9 1 3 2 5 4 8 6

7 9 4 5 1 8 2 3 6

1 4 8 3 9 2 6 7 5

9 2 7 4 5 6 1 8 3

4 LETTERS ASKS FLED FREE HERD LESS LIAR OGLE PAVE ROMP SAGE SALT STIR TEAR TEEM

QUICK QUIZ

The Arc de Triomphe in Paris was built to honour soldiers in which two wars?

How many letters are in the Welsh alphabet?

The Macquarie Dictionary declared which word the word of 2010: a) vuvuzela b) googleganger c) aquaponics?

The lotus flower is the national flower of which two countries?

IDR is the code for what currency?

Does a solidus – a punctuation mark – lean towards the left or the right?

How many films did Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers make together?

3 2 1 7 5 4 8 9 6

6 8 3 5 1 2 7 4 9

4 6 9 1 2 8 3 5 7

7 8 5 3 6 9 1 2 4

9 5 3 6 1 7 2 4 8

6 5 3 7 8 1 4 2 9

3 7 5 6 2 9 8 4 1

4 6 1 8 7 3 9 5 2

Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural words ending in “s”.

6 4 2 9 8 5 7 1 3

8 1 7 4 3 2 5 6 9

5 9 6 8 7 1 4 3 2

1 7 4 2 9 3 6 8 5

2 3 8 5 4 6 9 7 1

2 8 9 1 4 5 3 6 7

Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

9-LETTER WORD

76 words: Excellent

hard

medium

easy

3 LETTERS AIM AMP ASS AVO CAR DOE DYE EEL ERA GEE GNP HE'S LSD LYS NEE ODE OVA RAP REV SAC SIX TIN TOO VIE

B VM Z R J WG A L U S Y

9 3 6 5

1 4

3 5

4 7

5x5

OK H E NC P X F I QD T

WORDFIT

Holly Valance (pictured) stars as Katie in which 2011 Australian comedy?

Other than the Tour de France, what are cycling's Grand Tour races?

10 In what year did The Beach Boys release their album Surfin' USA?

ANSWERS: 1. French Revolutionary and the Napoleonic Wars 2. 29 3. Vietnam and India 4. Right 5. Big Mamma's Boy 6. Giro d’Italia and Vuelta a España 7. b) googleganger 8. Indonesian rupiah 9. 10 10. 1963

SUDOKU

21 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 28 April, 2021

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DEAR heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked for many favours. This time I ask you, this very special one (mentioned favour). Take it, the dear heart of Jesus, and place it with TARNEIT 50 Knightsbridge your own broken heart, Drive, Saturday 1st May, where your father sees it. from 7am. No early birds. Then in his merciful eyes, it will become your faEverything must go! vour, not mine. Amen. Say for three days, promise publication, and your V Health And favour will be granted. Fitness

www.rfnsa.com.au/3029018 1. The proposed upgrade consists of the removal of four panel antennas and the installation of thirteen new and six future panel antennas, three measuring 2.78m long, three measuring 2.68m long, three measuring 550mm long, three measuring 750mm long, three measuring 819mm long, three measuring 563mm long and three measuring 1.3m long on the existing monopole and ancillary associated equipment such as remote radio units to improve Vodafone’s mobile phone network including 5G. 12449339-NG21-20

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24 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 28 April, 2021

• Manageable client load with balanced admin and clinical hours • Competitive salary and conditions • Get paid an additional 17.5% leave loading when on holidays! • 14 weeks paid parental leave $$ • Flexible hours and working arrangements that works for you and your clients • Generous salary packaging options (which means an additional $16k tax free annually) • Above mileage reimbursement for KM’s travelled • Robust Wellness program (incl. bespoke EAP Service and weekly yoga) • Social Networking and clinical based conferences with international guest speakers. To request a copy of the position description / application submissions to HR@noahsarkinc.org.au For a conﬁdential discussion please contact the Team Leader, Liz Chung on 0409 834 883

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Motoring

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USED CAR CHECKOUT

Mercedes A-Class 2013 - 2019 By Ewan Kennedy, Marque Motoring When Mercedes-Benz launched the A-Class in 1997 it was a stubby little car deliberately made to be shorter than any conventional four-door car. It wasn’t a success in Australia, nor did it work as well on the European market as anticipated. The third generation A-Class, sold here from March 2013, is larger and far more conventional in its style and is the one being surveyed here. Its style moved from being quirky and cute to the high fashion you would expect from a Merc. It has a bold front that, without too much imagination, carried styling cues to the high-performance SLS Gullwing and Roadster. Fascinatingly, Mercedes chose the A-Class gen-three to do a toe-in-the-water exercise for infotainment systems, with the 2013 A-Class being described at the time as, “almost an iPhone on wheels”. It had many high-tech features before the bigger Benz models got them as Mercedes felt that owners of larger Mercs were reluctant to adopt ‘fancy new stuff’. The idea was that younger owners of the A-Class would talk to their parents and older friends about the technology and how to use it. In January 2016, the A-Class received a facelift and tail-tuck, as well as additional technology, with all versions now having adaptive suspension and satellite navigation. Power for the standard models in the A-Class is by turbo-petrol and turbo-diesel engines in various capacities and power outputs. Note that the numbers like A180, A200 and A250 don’t indicate the engine size as used to be the case. The hot Mercedes-AMG A45 comes with a pumped up 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine to compete with the hot machines from rivals Audi and BMW. The AMG uses the company’s

The 2013 Mercedes-Benz A250, 2015 Mercedes-AMG A45 (top right) and 2019 Mercedes-Benz A250. (Pictures: Supplied)

4Matic all-wheel-drive system to maximise grip when pushed hard. Mercedes-Benz has been a major player in Australia for many decades. The dealerships are well set up and we have heard very few complaints about availability of parts. An A-Class with a full service record from a Mercedes dealer will probably be more expensive but it makes a lot of sense. Some factory-trained Mercedes mechanics have left the company and set up private workshops. We’ve heard good reports on them, but ask around owners in your neighbourhood for their opinions on them. Insurance charges are a little higher than average for a car in this price range, but not seriously so.

What to look for If there’s the slightest doubt about the

mechanical condition be sure to get a quote for repairs. These may be small cars but they’re in the prestige class for the price of repairs. Make sure the engine starts easily and is reasonably smooth in operation. Any hesitation to your use of the accelerator is a cause for concern. Make sure the services have been done by the date recommended or distance travelled – whichever comes first. Look for signs of body repair work. Ripples in the panels, most easily spotted by looking at them end on; also check for tiny spots of paint on non-painted surfaces; colours that don’t match exactly from panel to panel. Uneven front tyre wear could either mean the suspension has been bent against a kerb, or the car has been driven hard – or both. Have a look in the boot and its surrounds in case it has been used to cart bulky loads.

Check the tailgate isn’t sticky in its operation and that it remains up until you lower it, otherwise a rap on your noggin could be painful.

How much? Expect to pay from $11,000 to $17,000 for a 2013 Mercedes-Benz A180; $15,000 to $22,000 for a 2013 A250 Sport or a 2016 A180; $16,000 to $23,000 for a 2014 A200; $20,000 to $28,000 for a 2015 A250 Sport; $25,000 to $34,000 for a 2018 A180; $29,000 to $40,000 for a 2018 A250 Sport; $31,000 to $43,000 for a 2016 AMG A45; and $54,000 to $71,000 for a 2019 AMG A45.

Car buying tip Any car with big kilometres on the dial may have been a rental at some time in its life, but may also have been owned by someone living in the country.

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25 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 28 April, 2021

MOTOR STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Extra shove in the Audi SUV pack

Coupe and SUV looks combine well with the latest addition to the Q8 stable. (Pictures: Supplied)

By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring Audi has called up a strapping diesel derivative to pack down with its petrol-powered Q8 teammate in its flagship luxury sports utility vehicle squad. The Q8 50 TDI quattro comes to market with power-packed performance and looks to match. Powered by a 3.0-litre TDI V6 engine producing 210 kW of power and 600 Nm of torque (the Q8 55 TFSI 3.0-litre turbo petrol V6 puts out 250 kW and 500 Nm), the Q8 50 TDI can hit 100 km/h from rest in an impressive 6.3 seconds. Mated with an eight-speed tiptronic automatic transmission with quattro all-wheel drive technology, fuel consumption according to Audi combined is 6.9 litres per 100 kilometres, with savings of up to 0.7 litres per 100km, thanks to help from 48 Volt mild-hybrid technology. A $11,100 Premium plus package includes 22-inch five-spoke alloy wheels ($1000 more for 22-inch alloy wheels in five V-spoke design), adaptive air suspension, HD Matrix LED headlights, privacy glass, 17-speaker Bang & Olufsen 3-D sound system, four-zone air conditioning with rear touch control panel and the colour interior lighting package. An optional full leather package, with a suite of additional items in fine Nappa leather is also available for $8900. The Audi Q8 50 TDI has the comprehensive Audi service plan package, costing $2040 for three years or $2960 for five years.

Styling On the street, the Q8 50 TDI quattro stands alongside the Audi Q8 55 TFSI quattro variant with the same sports coupe characteristics - strong contours and taut athletic surfaces that are a perfect foil for the large single frame octagonal grille. The test vehicle sported the S line exterior package, with 21-inch alloy wheels, LED 26 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 28 April, 2021

rear, lane change warning and rear cross-traffic assist. Add to this head-up display and 360-degree cameras, including kerb view for easy maneuvering.

Driving AT A GLANCE MODEL RANGE Audi Q8 50 TDI quattro $129,900 Audi Q8 55 TFSI quattro $129,900 Premium Plus package $11,000 Full Leather package $8,900

Note: These prices do not include government or dealer delivery charges. Contact your local Audi dealer for drive-away prices

headlights with high beam assist and adaptive suspension with damper control. The tailgate was power operated and electrically adjustable/ foldable exterior mirrors were heated and had memory settings.

Interior At nearly five metres long, there is plenty of room in the cabin for folk in the five seats – no third row to take up a generous 600-plus litres of luggage space. With the rear seats folded this expands to a van-like 1755 litres. And despite its swoopy coupe looks, the roof makes room for the taller passenger. Electrically adjustable seats are clothed in Valcona leather and have 4-way lumbar support. Front seats are heated and ventilated the second-row bench seat with 40:20:40 split fold slides.

Infotainment This is what we have come to expect from Audi, the latest virtual cockpit with MMI Navigation Plus with easy-to-handle touch responses. Add Audi Connect Plus, smart phone interface, with

Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, and wireless charging. Entertainment is in tune with the latest technology: DAB+ digital radio and Audi 180-Watt sound system with 10 speakers, six-channel amplifier, which extends to two rear USB outlets

Engines / transmissions Powered by a 3.0-litre TDI V6 engine producing 210 kW of power and 600 Nm of torque, mated with an eight-speed tiptronic automatic transmission with quattro all-wheel drive technology, all helped by 48 Volt mild-hybrid technology.

Safety The five-star ANCAP rating is at 2019 levels. Safety is well taken care of by 39 driver assistance systems to provide active and passive safety protection for occupants. Included are Autonomous Emergency Braking, Adaptive drive assist (adaptive cruise control with stop & go, with traffic jam assist), lane departure warning, pre-sense front and

With a range of dial-up driving modes from ‘comfort’ to ‘dynamic’ the Q8 50 TDI can be tailored to the driver’s mood. The car carries the family trait of feeling heavy to drive – because it is hefty - and steering tries to compensate, leading to lack of feedback at times, while the lane keeping assist can chip in when it seriously is not wanted. Thankfully the latter can be turned off. Gear shifts in slow traffic were almost imperceptible but there was a slight hesitancy at times off the mark. Audi says the 48V mild hybrid system saves up to 0.7 litres per 100 kilometres with its ability to call on the idle stop / start system from 22 km/h as the vehicle comes to rest and switches the engine off under load or coasting to save fuel. The test vehicle recorded 9.2 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and suburbs, and 5.4 litres per 100 kilometres at motorway speeds. This is a big car but because of the presence of five seats and not seven, the space is given over to occupants and their gear. There’s plenty of storage, with bottle holders in all doors, a pair of cup holders between the front seats, plus two in a fold-down rear armrest. Centre-console storage includes a wireless phone charger. Air vents for the dual zone climate control extend to the back seating positions as do two USB points and a 12-volt power outlet.

Summary Whatever the vehicle there’s always room for a diesel driver or two. The Audi Q8 50 TDI quattro fits well into the oil-burner segment without forsaking the premium SUV luxuries. As for performance, it carries the coupe flag too.

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

SPORT

Beach Villa rockets home By Shaun Campbell It was a spellbinding night of firsts at Tabcorp Park Melton on Saturday night, including a potential superstar notching up an impressive debut victory. Youngster Beach Villa revealed an impressive arsenal of afterburners to trounce his rivals in an exciting TAB Sapling Stakes (2YO Colts & Geldings) win for driver Kate Gath and trainer Emma Stewart. After leading through a speedy 57.6 first half, the full-brother of 2019 Chariots of Fire champ Poster Boy showed he possessed the explosive family trait by putting 10 metres on the field in a blink of an eye before strolling home to win the $24,000 feature in a 1:55:1 mile rate. “I thought at the trials he was pretty impressive, and tonight he just reaffirmed that,” Gath said. “He just ambles along, it is no effort to him and he doesn’t really know what he’s doing yet either.” Beach Villa is the latest rocket out of impressive broodmare, Aston Villa USA, who has also produced the likes of Yankee Rockstar (22 wins, $329,000), Born To Rocknroll (17 wins, $300,000) and, of course, Poster Boy (22 wins, $803,310). Gath said the mare was one of a “great group” at Lauriston bloodstock. “Clearly they know what they are doing because there are just so many of them,” she said. “[They] put a lot of money into the sport, but all their yearlings tend to be really good racehorses. It is just phenomenal.” In the next race, Spellbound NZ overcame a wide draw in the Allied Express Ian Daff Memorial to become the first horse this season to defeat the classy Tangoingwithsierra, with

Kate Gath drives Beach Villa to a debut victory. (Stuart McCormick)

driver Stuart McDonald stalking the favourite before putting her to the sword with a 27.7 last quarter. But it wasn’t all smooth sailing, with Spellbound NZ caught wide early as the field sprinted the first quarter of the last mile in 27.8 seconds. “The first quarter was certainly a little bit

scary; it was getting a little nerve wracking of where I was going to end up,” McDonald told Trots Vision after the race. “But it worked out well; I knew I had the horse that was good enough to do a bit of work and win.” McDonald said the four-year-old mare’s impressive 1:52:9 mile rate victory – his and

trainer Nathan Purdon’s first since relocating to Victoria – was indicative of her trackwork. In another big night, driver Leigh Sutton and Russell Jack scored a double, with four-year-old Sonny Weaver using the sprint lane to edge out Im Anothermasterpiece NZ in a thrilling finish, while Young Rooster rattled home to win the Melton Toyota Pace.

SPORTS QUIZ 1. Which team selected Australian basketballer Shyla Heal with the eighth pick of the 2021 WNBA Draft? 2. The proposal of a new European Super League caused controversy recently in which sport?

7. Top jockey Jamie Kah was born in which Australian state or territory? 8. Prior to joining the New Orleans Pelicans, NBA basketballer Didi Louzada played for which NBL team?

Thomas Bach

11. Who was the NRL 2020 season’s minor premier? 12. How many Summer Olympics have been held in the United States? 13. What Perth Wildcats player has won two NBL MVP Awards?

3. Kate Lutkins was judged the 2021 AFLW Grand Final’s best afield playing for which team?

14. Which two players shared the AFLW 2021 Best and Fairest Award? 15. After soccer, what sport is considered to be the second most played sport worldwide?

4. Which A-League team did Grant Brebner most recently coach?

9. The Margaret River Pro is a World Surfing League event held in which Australian state or territory?

5. How many goals did Jamie MacLaren score in Melbourne City’s recent 7-0 defeat of A-League rivals Melbourne Victory? 6. The NFL’s Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns are both based in which US state?

10. Which Australian golf professional had a career high Official World Golf Ranking of eighth in March 2004?

Grant Brebner

19. Which American boxer won a gold medal at the 1968 Mexico City Games?

25. In which year was the Melbourne Football Club’s last premiership?

20. Which capital city acts as a second base for the GWS Giants?

26. Which Victorian cricketer is the captain of Middlesex in the County Championship?

21. Which Queensland batsman was man of the match in the Sheffield Shield final?

27. Which British driver is Daniel Ricciardo’s teammate at McLaren?

16. What AFL team was fined $20,000 in Round 5 due to two players’ use of mobile phones during a match?

22. Which 2018 motor racing film was nominated for four Academy Awards?

28. Which golf course hosts the US Masters each year?

17. In what year did Craig Bellamy debut as coach of the Melbourne Storm?

23. Which country won the 2019 Rugby Union World Cup?

29. Thomas Bach is the current president of which body?

18. What NBA team has both the most wins and losses in NBA Finals series?

24. Which two US universities contest the famous annual rowing regatta?

30. How many Test hundreds did Ricky Ponting score in his career?

3004

1. Chicago Sky 2. Soccer 3. Brisbane Lions 4. Melbourne Victory 5. Five 6. Ohio 7. South Australia 8. Sydney Kings 9. Western Australia 10. Stuart Appleby 11. Penrith Panthers 12. Four (1904, 1932, 1984, 1996) 13. Bryce Cotton 14. Kiara Bowers and Brianna Davey 15. Badminton 16. Collingwood 17. 2003 18. Los Angeles Lakers 19. George Foreman 20. Canberra 21. Marnus Labuschagne 22. Ford V Ferrari 23. South Africa 24. Harvard and Yale 25. 1964 26. Peter Handscomb 27. Lando Norris 28. Augusta 29. International Olympic Committee 30. 41 27 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 28 April, 2021

SPORT STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Kicking goals Footy’s back in full swing and Keilor and Aberfeldie’s women’s teams were relishing the chance to be back on the field at the weekend. The teams faced off in the EDFL women’s premier division round 3. Star Weekly photographer Damjan Janevski caught some of the action.

3 5

1/ Keilor’s Bianca Louise Michetti shrugs off a tackle. 2/ Keilor’s Taylah Egan attempts to break away. 3/ Keilor’s Marthese Zahra prepares for a mark. 4/ Keilor’s Stephanie Aleksovski is at the bottom of the pack. 5/ Keilor’s Burcu Johnson hangs on to a mark. 6/ Keilor’s Georgina Rebuffo gets the ball away. 7/ Keilor’s Kaitlyn O’Keefe breaks out of the pack. 8/ A Keilor player makes a break for the ball. (Pictures: Damjan JanevskI) 235220 28 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 28 April, 2021

SPORT Mother and son take out top awards A mother and son have been named as the Hawks Fastpitch Softball Club’s senior and junior club person of the year. Club president Jason Kriehn said Deb Robinson and her son Jye took home the accolades at a presentation night on Saturday. Jye, 16, also received the best and fairest award for both the under-18 and Gold Men’s sides. He also received a 10-year membership award. Jye has played for state and national teams, umpired, coached and served on the club’s committee. Deb has also served on the committee and as a junior coach. Noah Cooney received numerous awards including inaugural most valuable player, runner-up best and fairest for the under-18s (along with Jaxon Holliday) and players’ player in the Gold Men’s awards. Other award winners included Kriehn, Bart Wadley, Loryn Batrich, Debbie Lee, Sophie Mairos, Bailea Robinson, Luisa Ballestrino,

Hollie Micallef, Cory McAuliffe, Karl Kriehn, Adam McKinley, Sarah Alderson, Lucy Philpot and Loryn Andersen. Kriehn said more than 100 people attended the presentation night at the Werribee RSL. Kriehn, who is also a senior men’s coach and player, said seeing the junior and senior players in the one room was “fantastic”. The Hawks play in the Werribee Softball Association and are celebrating their 41st anniversary this year. Kriehn said the presentation night saw several members awarded 10 year, 20 year and life memberships of the club. “Hopefully next year will be even bigger and better,” he said. See www.facebook.com/ hawksfastpitchsoftball/ or email hawksfastpitch@outlook.com if you are interested in playing for the club. Alesha Capone

Deb and Jye Robinson. (Pictures: Supplied)

Falcons draw first-up By Tara Murray A draw between the City West Falcons and the Geelong Cougars seemed a somewhat fitting first game in the return to Victorian Netball League championship action. A goal by Jane Cook in the final seconds decided the result. It was the first time teams have taken to the court in 18 months due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Falcons coach Marg Lind said she was happy with the 55-55 draw against a side with many former Falcons players. She said it was surreal to be back out there coaching a match for points. “It was pretty tricky,” she said. “We were pretty happy with it as we gave up a nine goal lead at one point. “Jane Cook sealed the draw, off a one-two pass from a centre pass taken with 10 seconds to go. It was almost a layup. “A draw was a fitting result to a fantastic game. I think there are some good signs moving forward.” Lind was keen to give all the group a go on court in round one, including Emma Walters and Melissa Oloamanu who have both been promoted into the top side this season. Lind said everyone played a role in coming away with the two points. “We kept rotating the defenders as they were rotating the attackers,” she said. “The attacking end of Maggie [Lind], Maddy [Gray] and Jane [Cook] were good. “Montana Holmes got put back in wing defence and nullified their wing attacks. “Mel O [Oloamanu] did a good job when she came on.” Lind said while she was happy with the result, she said it was going to take a few weeks before they had a true idea of where they sit. She said Geelong was one of the more experienced sides, which had a similar line-up to 2019. “We’ve really reshaped our club,” she said. “It’ll take a few weeks, as we’ve taken a risk on a young side. We have to keep rewarding the young ones, hopefully it pays off.” The Falcons’ division 1 and under-19 teams both suffered losses. Like the top side, Lind tried a number of different combinations. “In division 1 it blew out at the end,” she said. “When you’re losing you look to rotate everyone. “The 19s got within one. They are the rarest team we’ve ever had, but one with the most potential.

Werribee Men’s seconds celebrating a goal in their 3-1 win over Monash University, in the first round of the season earlier this month. (Supplied/Chris Tivendale – Werribee Hockey Club photographer)

Tigers host memorial round

City West Falcons Maggie Lind. (Shawn Smits) 235287_01

“We’ve just got two girls left from our 2019 premiership team. “Something will happen with this group. It might not be this year, but something will happen.” Of the new under-19 team, Achel Yout, Charli Nicol and Isabelle Marles were the standouts for the side.

Lind said the three had come through the pathways program with Altona Netball Association. “We’ve put in place a strong transition in place at the club, which is working from 11s and unders through to champ. “We’re trying to create the pathway.” This week the Falcons face Peninsula Waves.

The Werribee Hockey Club is back in action after COVID-19 caused the widespread cancellation of games last year. At the weekend, the club faced Geelong Sharks in the Tout Cup, named in honour of Werribee club president Lyn Tout who is a life member of both the Geelong Hockey Association and the Werribee Hockey Club. The Werribee and Geelong Women’s Vic League 1 reserves, Women’s Vic League 1s, Men’s Vic League 1 reserves and Men’s Vic League 1s faced each other on Saturday at Stead Park, with the Geelong sides claiming victory. Tout said the Tigers would host a special event on Saturday at Presidents Park – the Allan Purcell Memorial Round. The round has been named in memory of Purcell, a life member of the club who died in May last year. Purcell, who was associated with the club for almost 40 years, served as a player, coach, president, vice president, men’s convenor, club historian and secretary. A service paying tribute to Allan will be held at 1.50pm prior to the Men’s Vic League 1 game on Saturday, and a minute’s silence will be observed before the match commences. Tout said everyone was welcome to attend the day, including those who knew Allan outside of sport. “If non-hockey players come down, they will understand why hockey meant so much to him,” she said. Details: https://www.werribeehc.com. au/ 29 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 28 April, 2021

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Winless Werribee rues poor start By Tara Murray Werribee remains winless after a poor first quarter proved costly against Williamstown in the Victorian Football League on Saturday. The two western suburbs arch rivals played under lights at Avalon Airport Oval, in one of Werribee’s most anticipated games of the season. After both sides kicked early goals, the rest of the first quarter belonged to the Seagulls, who kicked the next five goals to take a 28-point lead into quarter time. When the Seagulls kicked the first goal of the second quarter, the margin extended to 33 points. Hudson Garoni, Matt Hanson and Bior Malual responded for Werribee as it kicked three of the next four goals to remain in touch at half time. The third quarter was a slug fest, with just one goal scored in the long quarter. Werribee had its chances early in the last quarter but weren’t able to make the most of them. The Seagulls would be the first to score in the last quarter and it would be enough to get the win. A couple of late goals came too late from Werribee, which lost 9.10 (64) – 7.11 (53). Werribee coach Michael Barlow was left frustrated by the slow start. “Teams of Williamstown’s calibre, you can’t give [a] five goal head start,” he said. “Obviously the scoreboard reflected that. We were competitive and worked our way back into the game and we had our moments and a few opportunities inside 50 that should have got us a bit closer. “The energy needed to get back into the game, it was quite telling in the end.” Barlow said for much of the game, it was a bit of war with neither side willing to give an inch with a lot of ball on the ground. “The efforts were there,” he said. “We’re finding it a little bit challenging having those conversations after a game as you can never question the commitment or the physical aspect.

Thomas Gribble lays a hard tackle. (Belinda Vitacca Photography)

“Were we cleaner in clutch moments? Later in the game we were, but the horse had already bolted. “It’s not like eight or nine different things … that’s quite promising for us.” It was all single goalkickers for Werribee. Hanson had plenty of the ball for a second straight week, including 18 contested possessions. Shaun Mannagh, in his ﬁrst game for the club, was one of those who impressed Barlow. Mannagh had 24 disposals, with Barlow saying he worked himself into the

game the longer it went on. Nathan Cooper deep in defence was another one to stand out, along with Nick Coughlan. The two are part of the back six, which Barlow said had led the way in the ﬁrst two games. “We’re clearly defending well. “The back six are leading the way in allowing us to restrict opposition scores at the moment. “Two rounds in haven’t got a win, and you play to win, but at the same time you have to restrict opposition and we’re not

quite there, but we’ve played some good opposition.” Werribee is one of six teams without a win after the ﬁrst two rounds. This week it faces Richmond at Avalon Airport Oval on Saturday. The two teams played each other in a practice match. “They are very hard to gauge,” Barlow said. “They might have got beaten by Casey, but by all indications with the health of the Melbourne AFL list, they are one team to beat.”

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