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Vintage cars go on show

(Damjan Janevski) 271755_01

Calling all vintage car, bike and hot rod enthusiasts, the annual Tracey’s Speedway reunion is back and better than ever. Hosted by the Victorian Classic and Vintage Speedway Club and Lions Club of Sunshine the event will be held at the famous Tracey’s Speedway, on Raleigh Road, Maribyrnong. Although the speedway closed in 1963, the memories still remain for many with a deep passion for vintage speedcars. The Vintage Speedcar Association was formed in 1987, and have been running this event for three decades, with all the money raised by the gold coin entry to be donated to the Royal Children’s Hospital. “It was instigated by the late Fred Tracey, who used to be the owner of Tracey’s speedway,” event organiser Malcolm Berg said. Tracey, an iconic figure in the history of the Maribyrnong Speedway, was inducted into the Australian Speedway Hall of Fame in 2011. The event will be taking place on April 3 from 10 am to 4pm, with food options provided at the venue.

Bob Haselgrove, Wayne Barker and John Gordon with their vintage cars.

Cannabis support clear By Molly Magennis A majority of surveyed Maribyrnong residents have thrown their support behind council’s plan to grow medicinal cannabis. Councillors voted in September, 2021, to enter the medicinal cannabis industry in a bid to reduce household rates. Community engagement on the decision ran until January 28, with 600 residents completing a survey about council’s plans. Of the residents who completed the survey, 74 per cent (445) said they were supportive of council entering the medicinal cannabis

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business. Twenty-six per cent (155) of survey respondents did not support the proposal, according to a report tabled at the March 15 council meeting. When asked if they supported council seeking alternative ideas to counteract rates, 87 per cent (519) of respondents answered ‘yes’. According to the report, residents’ reasons for supporting council growing medicinal cannabis included the health benefits for the greater community, the opportunity to reduce rates and local employment opportunities.

However, the report noted that while 74 per cent of survey respondents supported council’s plan, the support was tempered by a degree of concern around potential risk and the large number of current unknowns around the proposal. Reasons against the proposal included concerns council was not qualified to run such a venture, that the business could not return a profit, and that it was not the role of council. Council will now start the “feasibility and commercial legal due diligence stage” of the proposal, and an assessment will take place

regarding council’s risk under the local government act. A report detailing the findings will be presented to council in October. Maribyrnong mayor Anthony Tran council understood that residents wanted more details about council’s involvement in the medicinal cannabis industry. “They have made it clear they want to see a more extensive investigation to answer their questions around things like the operational model and specifically costs that would be involved before they would be willing to see the venture proceed any further,” he said.

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Metro to the rescue

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A much-loved Yarravi has been rescued lle cat, Mooncake, by after wandering from Metro train workers his Mooncake was spotted home. injured near Seddon train station . A driver alerted authori sed officers who found Moonc ake and drove him to U-Vet Werribee Animal Hospital where he underwent emerge fractured skull and ncy surgery for a jaw. Mooncake lost an eye, but his owner says he is recovering and adapting well. Lesley Friend said thank Metro’s train she wanted to driver and authori sed officers for saving Moonc “We’re very thankfu ake. Mooncake back and l that we got that he’s alive and that he [the train driver] basically saved his life,” she said. “He’s a big part of our Metro’s Wayne Boyd family.” said the safety all public transpo rt users, including of cats, was a priority. “We saw that little immediate help and Mooncake needed didn’t waste any time,” he said. “I was really pleased when I heard that Mooncake had pulled through.”

(Joe Mastroianni)

New million doll ar suburbs

Goya Dmytryshchak

By Goya Dmytryshch ak

marking the highest growth rate since Altona and West 2010. July director Wayne Footscray have joined Sweeney said “it million dollar club, the “The value was due to $1.516 happen”. with the median million ($266,000 price cracking $1 million house hit a record of the national dwelling market “We’re talking inner high in January Mr Sweeney said over reserve). 2021, and The May median house. city, Altona by the continued to hit Altona and West bay value a fresh record high has and the generous allotments for Altona $1,022,585 (up from in Altona,” he said. Footscray’s proximity to the city each $983,599 12 months was month since. “West Footscray is were big drawcards. and $1,018,794 (up a different suburb ago) “The wealth effect Footscray central from $919,227) for of house value increas Topping the list in , where you’re gettingfrom Footscray, CoreLo West has likely Melbourne were Brighto es gic’s Million Dollar bigger been the with a May blocks as well. a key component n Markets consum report for June shows. median house value of elevated er confidence, “A of $3,316,986 lot of (up the prices from and Austra these days, unless “The current upswin economic recovery there’s $3,168,364 $2,785,108) and Deepdene at g in the Austra from strict social distanclia’s something substantial on it, housing market (up lian restrictions from it’s $3,804, all about the ing land. 921). through 2020.” Among newcomers extraordinary results, has produced some Altona and West ” the report states. “It’s all about the land were Mount Macedo to the millionaire’s club Footscray made the “In the 12 months value.” 40 million-dollar n at $1,319,881 (up Sweeney’s recent markets in metrop top $961,49 from 5), dwelling market values to May 2021, national Melbourne. sales Blairgo include 1/13 Essex wrie at $1,318,730 olitan Street, West increased 10.6 per (up from $915,370), Footscr cent, Sweeney Estate auction for $1,130, ay, which sold before $872,743), Somers at $1,270,800 (up from Agents William 000 and 206 Blyth St stown Altona, which Street, from $867,95 Andrews Beach at $1,185,135 (up this month sold at 2 and Balnarring at auction for from $1,172,911 (up $880,200).

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Altona Altona Sports Club 11 Altona Road Altona Altona RSL 31 Sargood Street Altona Kooringal Golf Club Wilga Avenue Altona Convenience store 41 Civic Parade Altona City of Hobsons Bay 115 Civic Parade Altona Chemcare Wellness Pharmacy 8 Harrington Square Altona Altona West Newsagency 12 Harrington Square Altona Borgs Cakes 20 Harrington Square Altona Sweeney Real Estate 54 Pier Street Altona Bendigo Bank 64 Pier Street Altona Altona IGA plus Liquor 103/110 Pier Street Altona Altona Newsagency 84-86 Pier Street Altona Chemist Discount Centre 88-90 Pier Street Altona Meadows Sweeney Real Estate - Altona Meadows Shop 10a, 1-23 Central Avenue (Cental Square Shopping Centre) Altona Meadows Central Lotto Shop 14, 1-23 Central Avenue (Cental Square Shopping Centre) Altona Meadows Altona Meadows Library and Learning Centre 2 Newham Way (Central square Shopping Centre) Altona North Sweeney Real Estate - Altona North 15 Borrack Square Altona North Westgate Health and Fitness Club Corner Grieve Parade & Dohertys Road Altona North Altona Fresh 62-76 Second Ave 9399 1390 Altona North Borrack Square Lotto & Gifts 32 Borrack Square Altona North The Circle Pharmacy 53 The Circle Altona North Hunter French Real Estate 21 Borrack Square Altona North Altona North Community Library Corner Millers Road & McArthurs Road Altona North Altona Gate Shopping Centre Lvl.2/ 124-134 Millers Road Altona North Altona East Newsagency 63 The Circle Braybrook Central West Plaza 65-67 Ashley Street Braybrook Braybrook Hotel 353 Ballarat Road Braybrook Braybrook Library 107-139 Churchill Avenue Deer Park Deer Park Newsagency 823 Ballarat Road Footscray Trimson & Partner Real Estate 169 Barkly Street

• Footscray French Baguette Cafe 181 Barkly Street • Footscray Whitten Oval 417 Barkly Street • Footscray Footscray Community Arts Centre 45 Moreland Street • Footscray James Barker House Aged Care 64 Buckley Street • Footscray Pheonix Youth Centre 72 Barkly Street • Footscray Burnham Real Estate - Footscray 273 Barkly Street • Footscray Jim Wong’s Restaurant 259-261 Barkly Street • Footscray Greg hocking Real Estate 145-147 Geelong Road • Footscray Footscray Hospital 160 Gordon Street • Footscray Caltex Petrol Station 62-68 Gordon Street • Footscray Foosctray Police Station 66 Hyde Street • Footscray Maribyrnong City Council 61 Napier Street (Cnr Napier & Hyde Streets) • Footscray Tatts Lotto 81 Nicholson Street • Footscray Wards Newsagency 100 Nicholson Street • Footscray Footscray Library 56 Paisley Street • Footscray Paisley Clinic Pharmacy 85 Paisley Street • Footscray Coles Footscray Albert Street (Footscray Plaza Shopping Centre) • Footscray West IGA West Footscray 511 Barkly Street • Footscray West Neighbourhood House Level 1,539 Barkly Street • Footscray West Compton Green Real Estate 1/240 Geelong Road • Footscray West Kingsville Newsagency 339 Somerville Road • Kingsville BP Petrol 88 Williamstown Road • Laverton Laverton Newsagency Shop 12-14 Aviation Road • Laverton Bendigo Bank Shop 3/28 Aviation Road • Laverton Laverton Community Hub 95-105 Railway Street • Maidstone MJs Café Unit 9/72 Hampstead Road • Maidstone Fix at Mick’s Motors Petrol Station 95 Rosamond Road • Maidstone Maidstone Milk Bar 154 Ballarat Road • Maribyrnong Maribyrnong Aquatic Centre 1 Aquatic Drive • Maribyrnong Maribyrnong Community Centre 9 Randall Street • Maribyrnong Supanews Lotto Shop 2138/120-200 Rosamond Road (Highpoint Shopping Centre) • Maribyrnong Gloria Jeans - Maribyrnong Shop 3/120-200 Rosamond Road (Highpoint Shopping Centre) • Maribyrnong Plush Think Sofas Shop 3 / 179 Rosamond Road, Highpoint Home Maker Centre • Maribyrnong Forty Winks Shop 4 / 179 Rosamond Road, Highpoint Home Maker Centre • Maribyrnong Focus On Furniture Shop 5 / 179

Rosamond Road, Highpoint Home Maker Centre • Maribyrnong Adriatic Furniture Shop 6 / 179 Rosamond Road, Highpoint Home Maker Centre • Maribyrnong Snooze Shop 7 / 179 Rosamond Road, Highpoint Home Maker Centre • Maribyrnong Suave Furniture Shop 8/179 Rosamond Road, Highpoint Home Maker Centre • Maribyrnong Spotlight Shop 9-10 / 179 Rosamond Road, Highpoint Home Maker Centre • Maribyrnong Alex’s Furniture Shop 11 / 179 Rosamond Road, Highpoint Home Maker Centre • Maribyrnong Koala Living Shop 12 / 179 Rosamond Road, Highpoint Home Maker Centre • Maribyrnong Bev Marks Shop 13 / 179 Rosamond Road, Highpoint Home Maker Centre • Maribyrnong Bedshed Shop 14 / 179 Rosamond Road, Highpoint Home Maker Centre • Maribyrnong James Lane Shop 15 / 179 Rosamond Road, Highpoint Home Maker Centre • Maribyrnong Pet Barn Shop 16A / 179 Rosamond Road, Highpoint Home Maker Centre • Maribyrnong Barbecues Galore Shop 16A/B / 179 Rosamond Road, Highpoint Home Maker Centre • Maribyrnong Beds N Dreams Shop 16A/C / 179 Rosamond Road, Highpoint Home Maker Centre • Maribyrnong Carpet Call Shop 17 / 179 Rosamond Road, Highpoint Home Maker Centre • Newport Newport Newsagency 48 Challis Street • Newport The Substation 1 Market Street • Newport Newport Library 13 Mason Street • Newport Seagulls Nest Club 1 Mason Street • Newport IGA Newport Plus Liquor 2 Mason Street • Newport Cellarbrations 25 Mason Street • Newport Newport Community Centre 43 Mason Street • Newport Newport Newsagency 6 Hall Street • Newport Newport General Store 10 Hall Street • Seddon Ray White 156 Victoria Street • Seddon Seddon Newsagency Mar-00 Charles Street • Seddon ALFA Café 97 Victoria Street • Seddon The Happy Apple Supermarket 176-178 Victoria Street • Seddon The Vin Wine & Spirits 180 Victoria Street • South Kingsville Dukkah Restaurant 23 Vernon Street • Spotswood Spotswood Newsagency 81 Hudsons Road • Spotswood Scouns Pharmacy 17D Vernon Street • Tottenham Milk Bar - Tottenham Sara Grove • Tottenham Tottenham Central LPO and Newsagency 159 Sunshine Road • Williamstown Steam Packet Hotel 13 Cole Street • Williamstown RT Edgar Real Estate 94 Douglas Parade

• Williamstown Newsagency Riffle Range S/Centre Shop 8 , 71 -79 Kororoit Creek Road 9397 1822 • Williamstown Hazeldean Transition Care 211 Osborne Street • Williamstown Williamstown Hospital 77b Railway Crescent • Williamstown South Pacific health club The Strand & North Road • Williamstown Smooth Curves 2A Wellington Parade • Williamstown Coles Supermarket 29 Douglas Parade • Williamstown Williamstown News and Lotto 16 Douglas Parade • Williamstown Sweeney Real Estate Shop 1-3 Douglas Parade • Williamstown Crompton Green Real Estate 29 Ferguson Street • Williamstown Freechoice Williamstown Tobacco 31 Ferguson Street • Williamstown Williams Real Estate 75 Ferguson Street • Williamstown Get the News Unit 8/9 Kororoit Creek Road • Williamstown Porters Williamstown 49 Nelson Place • Williamstown Hobsons Bay Visitors Centre 1 Syme Street • Yarraville Woolworths Yarraville Metro 6 Anderson Street • Yarraville IGA Yarraville 12 Anderson Street • Yarraville Yarraville Newsagency 59 Anderson Street • Yarraville Coracle Cafe Restaurant 63 Anderson Street • Yarraville For The Health Of It Natural Health Products 73 Anderson Street • Yarraville Hocking Stuart Real Estate - Yarraville 33 Ballarat Street • Yarraville Coles Supermarket - Yarraville 1 High Street • YARRAVILLE - Sweeney Yarraville 346 Williamstown Road • Yarraville Antipasti Deli & Cafe Shop 3/1 High Street • Yarraville Rocco’s Delicatessent 122 Roberts Street • Yarraville Yarraville Club 135 Stephens Street • Yarraville Liquor Legends 6 Wembley Avenue • Yarraville Wembley Convenience Store 8 Wembley Avenue

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2 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 30 March, 2022

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Family violence pressure grows By Fatima Halloum The western suburbs’ family violence sector is in urgent need of funding reform, experts have warned. Heightened pressure on leading prevention and response services has left victims in desperate need of aid, with some waiting more than three months for help. GenWest provides family violence support and physical health and mental wellbeing services for women in the western suburbs.

Interim chief executive Kate Philips said rapid population growth and the global pandemic had increased demand for assistance. Crime Statistics Agency data shows that in Maribyrnong, family violence incidents rose from 912 in 2020 to 984 in 2021, an increase of 9per cent. Incidents in Hobsons Bay went from from 1052 in 2020 to 1088 in 2021. Ms Philips said the number of referrals in the west had quintupled in the past 10 years. “In 2011 we received 2419 family violence

referrals from Victoria Police for the entire year. Ten years later, in 2021, we received over 13,000. What we received for the entirety of 2011 we’re now receiving every eight weeks. “The pandemic has resulted in double the number of victims survivors needing mental health support. Given that we’ve not ever received a real increase in funding for health promotion, this means our capacity to do this work has effectively halved.” However Ms Philips believes a funding boost may not necessarily be the best solution.

“We need a funding model that allows us to navigate challenges, collaborate with other services and provide the support we can to survivors need when they need it,” she said. Ms Philips said greater flexibility in how services are resourced was needed. “We have been delivering support services to victim-survivors for nearly 30 years. Our staff are highly skilled, committed and know what they need to do to make victim-survivors safe. Restrictive funding arrangements don’t enable them to their jobs in the best way possible.”

Catch great comedy Comedy events will be coming to a venue in the west near you as a part of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival. Supported by Maribyrnong council, coming up first is the festival’s ‘Neighbourhood Sessions’ set to land in Footscray on Friday, April 1. Some of the biggest names in the comedy community will be performing at Footscray Community Arts including David Quirk, Floyd Alexander-Hunt, He Huang, Sami Shah, with Harley Breen as host. The (Very) Big Laugh Out Westside is the next big event on the comedy calendar, and will see stand-up, physical and musical comedy performers take to the stage at Maddern Square Footscray. The free show on April 2 is perfect for families with performances by Miss C - Balloonologist, Oliver Coleman, The Scientwits and many more. Comedy Out West (COW) Open Mic Night on April 7 will see the audience take control,

deciding who is awarded the best comedian in the west and gets to walk away with the sought after cow bell for 2022. Finally, an event just for the kids, the Scientwits will host their own interactive comedy show ‘The Wrong Experiments’ from April 9-14. Melbourne International Comedy Festival associate director Gideon James said the local events have something for everybody. “Neighbourhood Sessions is an exciting opportunity for the festival to present tailored line-up shows in metro Melbourne.” Festival director Susan Provan said the amazing line-ups represent the very best the festival has to offer. “Our mission is to bring comedy to fans right across Melbourne and the Neighbourhood Sessions are a great opportunity to connect with people who might not be able to get into the CBD. “ Comedians David Quirk and He Huang are featured in the Neighbourhood Sessions line up.

Molly Magennis

(Damjan

Janevski) 273915_01

Wednesday, 30 March, 2022 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 3

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Threads of connection

More kinders on the way

By Molly Magennis An Altona based quilting group has been recognised at the 2021 Volunteering Awards, receiving runner up for its outstanding community work during the pandemic. The Seabreeze Quilters took home second place in the COVID-19 Support and Connection Category at the awards ceremony on March 24. The group, comprised of 75 dedicated quilters, has been engaged with the Hobsons Bay community since first forming in 2006. It was members’ work in 2021 with the Meals on Wheels service and their commitment to staying connected during the pandemic that saw them recognised for the amazing community work they do on a daily basis. Last year in the lead up to Christmas, the group made 450 gift bags to give to those who receive the meals service in Hobsons Bay, almost double what the group delivered the previous year. Seabreeze Quilters Kim Reilly said throughout the pandemic, the group held virtual meetings, and even held a virtual retreat, which kept members connected through such a troubling time. “You’ll get comments from members saying you know, if it hadn’t been for the virtual retreats that we ran, you know, [they] didn’t know how [they] would have survived COVID, because we gave [them] a reason for living, we gave [them] purpose and those sorts of things. “As COVID hit we realised that there was a service we could provide to our members by staying connected. “What we did in a small way, is worth celebrating and talking about because we’re hoping that other people will do this, if ever the need arises.”

The Seabreeze Quilters committee members Lee Arche and Georgia Reilly.

Ms Reilly said the act of giving someone in need a homemade quilt is so much more powerful than most people would think. “To have something handmade that is made for you is something that’s also very special. “What we do is a lot of work for others, but we know what the benefit is for ourselves in doing that.” The Seabreeze Quilters have finally secured

The state government will partner with Hobsons Bay council to provide families with more kindergarten options. The announcement was made by Early Childhood Minister Ingrid Stitt on March 22, with the government set to co-contribute up to $5.8 million for three new kindergartens as part of the Building Blocks Partnership. The first stage of the partnership will see an extra 168 funded kindergarten places delivered, which will be operational by 2025. These projects will be supported in Newport, Altona and Seabrook. There will also be in-principle support for a further state government contribution of up to $2 million for one more new kindergarten in Hobsons Bay, which is set to be delivered from 2026. In total, the projects will deliver more than 270 kindergarten places in total by 2029. Ms Stitt said: “We know how important it is to give our kids the best possible start, which is why we’re backing even more Building Blocks partnerships to support the successful roll-out of our landmark three-year-old kinder.” Williamstown MP Melissa Horne and Altona MP Jill Hennessy agreed that the projects are exciting news for the municipality. “It’s exciting to be rolling out the third Building Blocks partnership – this time in Hobsons Bay – delivering more first-class learning facilities for families in Melbourne’s booming southwest,”

(Damjan Janevski) 273731

a new space for their growing member base, and are more than happy to welcome anyone of any age and gender to join them. “We are open to anyone wanting to join at any skill level as well,” Ms Reilly said. Details: kimreilly58@outlook.com or 0409 382 510

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Sharing cultural stories By Molly Magennis A not-for-profit organisation based in Maidstone which collects and re-distributes books to Indigenous children has teamed up with a local primary school to help pupils culturally engage with peers from across the country. Established in 2015, Books n Boots Inc not only works to help close the literacy gap in Indigenous children by providing communities with much needed books, but in doing so also redirects books away from landfill, helping to create a more sustainable future. In total, Books n Boots has delivered 10,000 books and have saved over 8000 kilograms of books from landfill. In 2021 the organisation received a major grant from Maribyrnong council’s 2022 Community Grants Program to start the Kalbarr Project, which aims to connect primary schools in Maribyrnong to those in remote communities. The project has been backed by Western Metropolitan MP Catherine Cummings. Books n Boots co-founder John Harding said the program is all about fostering a relationship between the two communities, and in doing so help educate children about Indigenous culture and raise awareness of the health and education gaps they face. “It is an important project of reconciliation, as it will allow the opportunity for the two groups of students to actually speak to each other, and develop relationships between schools in this electorate, and remote and regional communities,” he said. St John’s librarian and family engagement co-ordinator Daniela Delucasaid the school saw the project as an exciting chance to get involved with something that aligned with its core values.

Books n Boots co-founder and chairperson John Harding, Western Metropolitan MP Catherine Cumming and St John’s Catholic Primary School pupiks. 273774 (Damjan Janevski)

“This project provides the opportunity for children to connect across different settings and contexts, whilst building friendships through an authentic experience. It also provides children with the opportunity for cross-cultural connection and understanding, bringing to light our value of diversity.” Mr Harding said while St John’s is the first school to jump onboard, he hopes it is one of many.

“The beauty of this project is that the students can discuss whatever they feel is important to impart and [share] between each other, that’s what self-determination means in practice. The cultural exchange could touch on a wide variety of topics, food, entertainment, favourite TV shows, or sports.” Details: https://www.booksnboots.org.au

NEWS

Free tourism and hospitality training at VU Victoria University Polytechnic will be offering free hospitality and tourism courses for workers interested in getting involved in the recovering industries. Both the hospitality and tourism sectors are continuing to reopen with demand steadily growing, however many businesses are still struggling to find skilled workers to replace those that left during the pandemic. VU’s new program, The Visitor Economy Work Ready program will provide hands-on practical learning at VU Polytechnic’s training restaurant, VenU at the Footscray Nicholson Campus. There are three streams available, including Travel and Tourism, Front of House and Back of House, where students can learn a range of skills from customer service, problem solving, food preparation and food and beverage operations. Upon completion of the program students have guaranteed job interviews at leading employers and partner organisations such as Accor, RACV Resorts and Clubs and at venues like Marvel Stadium and the MCG. Both domestic and international students are welcome to apply for the program. Enrolment and Orientation day will be on Thursday, April 21 from 10am to 2pm at VenU restaurant. Those interested should bring a birth certificate and concession card (if applicable)

VICTORIAN HOMEBUYER FUND It could be the key to owning your own home sooner. To make owning your own home more affordable, the Victorian Government has introduced the Homebuyer Fund. If you have a 5% deposit, the Victorian Government will contribute up to 25% of the purchase price, in exchange for an equivalent share in the property. This can help you reduce your mortgage. Find out if you’re eligible at vic.gov.au/homebuyer

Stamp duty and other costs are payable in addition to the deposit. Eligibility and lending criteria apply with selected banks and restrictions and obligations apply after purchase. Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne.

Wednesday, 30 March, 2022 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 5

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All aboard for history festival By Mayor Peter Hemphill Hobsons Bay is rich in cultural heritage with more than 25 state-listed heritage buildings and many fascinating stories to tell. The Heritage Hobsons Bay Festival, from April 18 to May 2, invites residents and visitors to discover Hobsons Bay’s historical, Indigenous, cultural and natural heritage. For details and to book, visit linktr.ee/HeritageHobsonsBay. In addition to celebrating our heritage, we also need to safeguard and protect significant heritage sites. Heritage buildings such as the Newport Railway Workshops are irreplaceable and precious, providing a window to the past and the very origins of our communities. As part of my Mayoral Program, I am working closely with community groups to advocate for increased heritage protection for the former Newport Railway Workshops, including the retention of the heritage rail groups on the site. At the recent open day on site, which I attended, the Newport Railway Workshops Preservation Group secured 6,000 signatures to a petition supporting the rail groups remaining in Newport. Another initiative that I was happy to witness last week was the opening of the Kraft Heinz community store. This store at its Altona Distribution Centre in Westlink Court is open to welfare organisations and Hobsons Bay residents to access Kraft Heinz products at a discounted rate. I was especially pleased to hear that the project will create great community partnerships and will result in less food being sent to landfill. Kraft Heinz is a great corporate citizen

NOTICE OF AN APPLICATION FOR PLANNING PERMIT

Briefs Altona Beach is safe The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has deemed the Altona Beach safe to swim at following a pollution incident at Cherry Lake. It has been monitoring water quality in the area since the spill to ensure public safety.

Scienceworks turns 30

Mayor Peter Hemphill at the Newport Railway Workshops. (Damjan Janevski) 268121_01

and it will be working closely with Laverton Community Integrated Services, Latitude: Directions for Young People and other local social enterprises to provide food to those most in need in our community. It’s a win-win for everyone and I commend Kraft Heinz for its initiative. The store will be open on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 10am to 2pm. Proof of Hobsons Bay residency will be required. Check out the colourful mural on the side of the distribution centre. Lastly, as the clean-up continues following pollution at Cherry Creek and lake, I would like to remind people to avoid contact with water and any fish or eels caught there. If you see dead fish or other signs of the effects of pollution in the area, call 1300 EPA VIC (1300 372 842) or contact@epa.vic.gov.au.

Scienceworks has officially been educating young minds for 30 years. The iconic science museum opened its doors in March 1992. Scienceworks general manager Jonathan Shearer said throughout Scienceworks’ history, it has become a leader in the STEM space. “When we opened Scienceworks in 1992, our vision was a place for young people to play with science. Today, 30 years on, Scienceworks is bursting with things to challenge curious minds of all ages,” he said. “In an age where science and technology have the potential to solve some of the biggest problems facing our society, we take pride in the role we play in engaging and exciting people, creating the next generation of innovators and problem solvers.” To celebrate, Scienceworks is collecting images, videos and stories from any of its past and present visitors, staff, volunteers and community.

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ƉƉůŝĐĂƟŽŶ W ϮϮϬϬϲϲ Lorraine Stupak of LS Planning Pty >ƚĚ ŚĂƐ ůŽĚŐĞĚ Ă ƉůĂŶŶŝŶŐ ĂƉƉůŝĐĂƟŽŶ ĨŽƌ ƚŚĞ ǀĂƌŝĂƟŽŶ ŽĨ Ă ƌĞƐƚƌŝĐƟŽŶ ;/ŶƐƚƌƵŵĞŶƚ ŶŽ͗ ϭϲϴϲϮϭϲͿ ĐŽŶƚĂŝŶĞĚ ŝŶ ĞƌƟĮĐĂƚĞ ŽĨ dŝƚůĞ sŽůƵŵĞ ϬϴϲϬϭ &ŽůŝŽ ϵϲϰ͕ ƌĞŵŽǀŝŶŐ ƚŚĞ ƌĞƋƵŝƌĞŵĞŶƚ ƚŽ ƵƐĞ ďƌŝĐŬ ĂŶĚͬŽƌ ƐƚŽŶĞ ĐŽŶƐƚƌƵĐƟŽŶ ŵĂƚĞƌŝĂůƐ ďǇ ƌĞŵŽǀŝŶŐ ƚŚĞ ĨŽůůŽǁŝŶŐ ǁŽƌĚŝŶŐ͗ ͞ƵƐĞ ĂŶǇ ŵĂƚĞƌŝĂů ŽƚŚĞƌ ƚŚĂŶ ďƌŝĐŬ ĂŶĚͬŽƌ ƐƚŽŶĞ Žƌ ŽƚŚĞƌ ŵĂƚĞƌŝĂů ĂƉƉƌŽǀĞĚ ŽĨ ďǇ ƚŚĞ ƚƌĂŶƐĨĞƌƌŽƌ ĨŽƌ ŵĂŝŶ ǁĂůůƐ ŽĨ ĂŶǇ ƐƵĐŚ ƐŚŽƉ Žƌ ĚǁĞůůŝŶŐ ŚŽƵƐĞ ǁŝƚŚŽƵƚ ƚŚĞ ĐŽŶƐĞŶƚ ŝŶ ǁƌŝƟŶŐ ŽĨ ƚŚĞ ƐĂŝĚ E͘^͘t ZĞĂůƚǇ Ž͘͟ Ăƚ ϭϵ YƵĞĞŶ ^ƚƌĞĞƚ͕ ^ĞĂŚŽůŵĞ͘ dŚĞ ĂƉƉůŝĐĂƟŽŶ ĂŶĚ ƐƵƉƉŽƌƟŶŐ ĚŽĐƵŵĞŶƚĂƟŽŶ ŵĂǇ ďĞ ŝŶƐƉĞĐƚĞĚ ǀŝĂ ŽƵŶĐŝů͛Ɛ ŽŶůŝŶĞ ƉĞƌŵŝƚ ŵĂŶĂŐĞŵĞŶƚ ƐǇƐƚĞŵ ͚'ƌĞĞŶůŝŐŚƚ͕͛ Ăƚ ǁǁǁ͘ŚŽďƐŽŶƐďĂǇ͘ǀŝĐ͘ŐŽǀ͘ĂƵ͘ /Ĩ ǇŽƵ ĚŽ ŶŽƚ ŚĂǀĞ ŝŶƚĞƌŶĞƚ ĂĐĐĞƐƐ ĐŽŶƚĂĐƚ ŽƵŶĐŝů ŽŶ ϭϯϬϬ ϭϳϵ ϵϰϰ ďĞƚǁĞĞŶ ϴ͘ϯϬĂŵ ĂŶĚ ϱ͘ϬϬƉŵ ƚŽ ŵĂŬĞ ŽƚŚĞƌ ĂƌƌĂŶŐĞŵĞŶƚƐ͘ ŶǇ ƉĞƌƐŽŶ ǁŚŽ ŵĂǇ ďĞ ĂīĞĐƚĞĚ ďǇ ƚŚĞ ŐƌĂŶƟŶŐ ŽĨ ƚŚĞ ƉĞƌŵŝƚ ŵĂǇ ŽďũĞĐƚ Žƌ ŵĂŬĞ ŽƚŚĞƌ ƐƵďŵŝƐƐŝŽŶƐ ƚŽ ƚŚĞ ŽƵŶĐŝů ŝŶ ǁƌŝƟŶŐ ďǇ ϭϯ Ɖƌŝů ϮϬϮϮ͕ ŝŶĐůƵĚŝŶŐ ƚŚĞ ƌĞĂƐŽŶƐ ĨŽƌ ĂŶ ŽďũĞĐƟŽŶ ĂŶĚ ƐƚĂƟŶŐ ŚŽǁ ƚŚĞ ŽďũĞĐƚŽƌ ǁŽƵůĚ ďĞ ĂīĞĐƚĞĚ͘ KďũĞĐƚŽƌƐ ǁŝůů ďĞ ĂĚǀŝƐĞĚ of the decision.

Star Weekly is an independently owned company which prides itself on its long history of community experience but also its investment in the future. The successful applicant will need to possess good people skills to enable them to meet with local businesses to sell solutions through our advertising platforms to help promote their business. Sales skills/experience: • Ability to maintain existing professional relationships and to create new ones • Ability to meet defined sales and activity targets • Excellent listening skills • Accuracy and attention to detail • Effective time management to meet deadlines • Ability to operate in a team • Demonstrates initiative and flexibility • Effective oral and written communication Applicants will need their own reliable vehicle for which we will provide an allowance. The position is salaried, plus we offer an open ended commission scheme. Send your application letter and resume to: Mandy Clark Group Advertising Sales Manager mandy.clark@starnewsgroup.com.au

&Žƌ ĨƵƌƚŚĞƌ ŝŶĨŽƌŵĂƟŽŶ͕ ƉůĞĂƐĞ ĐŽŶƚĂĐƚ DĂƟůĚĂ ƐƐĞƌ ŽŶ ϭϯϬϬ ϭϳϵ ϵϰϰ͘

www.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au 6 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 30 March, 2022

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Flypasts for RAAF memorial The Royal Australian Air Force will dedicate a new memorial at Point Cook to everyone who has worn the RAAF uniform since its formation in 1920. A ceremony will be held at 11am on Wednesday, March 30, and will feature a number of flypasts by current and historic military aircraft including a CA-18 Mustang, the C-17A Globemaster and the Roulettes aerobatic team. Director-General Air Force 2021 Andrew Elfverson said the memorial will be a special place to “pause and reflect” on the contributions the air force has made.

“More than 350,000 Australians have served in Air Force since 1921 and 11,191 have died serving the nation. 3,143 air force members have no known grave. “This memorial honours their dedication, service and sacrifice.“ The tribute will be a permanent legacy that marks the conclusion of the centenary program, honouring 100 years of service. RAAF base in Point Cook is the oldest continually operating military airfield in the world and the birthplace of the Australian Air Force. Air force say it will make every effort to

minimise aircraft noise for residents in local areas. Due to COVID-19 members of the public are unable to attend the dedication ceremony, but can watch a livestream of the event through the air force’s official Facebook page.

Australian Army CH-47F Chinook helicopters fly past a Royal Australian Air Force C-17 Globemaster III at Fua`amoto international airport, Tonga, during Operation Tonga Assist 2022.

A new hub for big hugs With primary goals to ensure families are given the material aid they need, to reduce poverty and to repurpose items that would otherwise end up in landfill, an expansion west will benefit many. Big Group Hug chief executive Bernadene Voss said the partnership would amplify positive impacts and ensure kids on the margins would be the biggest beneficiaries. “We are excited to be working with agencies, in particular with Caroline Chisholm Society, to service an increasing gap of material aid needed in Western Melbourne,” Ms Voss said. CCS chief executive, Dr Jennifer Weber, said the partnership was a chance to improve the sustainability of material-aid provision across the western suburbs. She said the growing pressures on families meant a need for material aid “more than ever”.

Big Group Hug volunteer Jill Pope.

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Children and families experiencing disadvantage in Melbourne’s west will soon have access to more material aid, thanks to Big Group Hug’s new hub in Airport West. The not-for-profit, providing pre-loved goods to families who need them, heads into a new partnership with the Caroline Chisholm Society (CCS), an organisation specialising in pregnancy and early parenting programs and services. A collaboration between the two will mean an expansion of services into the Macedon Ranges, Brimbank, Melton, Moorobool, Wyndham, Hobsons Bay, Moreland, Moonee Valley and Maribyrnong. Supported by Recycling Victoria Communities Fund delivered by Sustainability Victoria on behalf of the Victorian government, the project was provided a funding grant, appropriately named the Sustainable Collective by Big Group Hug.

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Signs signal tolerance By Molly Magennis

Maribyrnong mayor Anthony Tran and Councillors Simon Crawford and Jorge Jorquera at the public launch day of the #RacsimNotWelcome campaign. (Supplied)

Maribrynong council has began installing anti-racism street signs across the municipality as a part of its #RacismNotWelcome campaign. The street signs will appear outside council buildings and at open spaces across the municipality, including the Footscray Library, Maribyrnong Aquatic Centre and Footscray Park. Footpath decals will also be printed on walkways, and stickers will also be available for residents to place on their mailboxes. Residents who would like to can collect their free letterbox sticker from council libraries, community centres and Footscray Town Hall.

The launch of the street signs coincided with International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination on Monday, March 21. Maribrynong council is the first in Victoria to adopt and endorse this campaign. In December, 2021, councillors signed off on the campaign details after considering feedback from the community. The community engagement process resulted in 80 per cent of respondents saying they are in support of the campaign. Residents also asked that the messaging be translated into key community languages to reflect the diversity of the local community. Councillor Jorge Jorquera, who has been continually vocal about his support for this

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campaign, attended the public launch on Monday, March 21.. “It was great to have so many community supporters at the launch, including a whole bunch of Footscray High students, activists from VietSpeak, Africause, Justice Action Maribyrnong, Green Guerillas & Victorian Socialists,” he said in a Facebook post. Mayor Anthony Tran said he would like to live in a community where “tolerance and respect are valued and differences are celebrated”. “This campaign reinforces council’s commitment to fostering and promoting a sense of belonging and inclusion in our community that highlights the advantages of diversity by encouraging residents to recognise and call out racism,” he said. “I look forward to the roll out of the street signs and decals. Help us launch this campaign throughout our city by placing the #racismnotwelcome stickers on your letterboxes.”

Bill crosses into his tenth decade A much loved Altona College crossing supervisor celebrated a milestone birthday on Wednesday, March 23, surrounded by the teachers and pupils who appreciate his hard work and dedication. Bill Copeland, who turned 90, was met with a colourful banner, balloons and gifts organised by the school community. He was also treated to a special rendition of ‘Happy Birthday’ by the young pupils. The Werribee resident has been working as crossing supervisor at the school for a little over a decade, and said he loves the fact that it keeps him busy and that he can have a laugh with the kids at the same time. “I think I’m very happy all the years I’ve done this job. I’m very, very pleased that I’m still doing it, you know?,” Mr Copeland said. “ … Eyesight pretty good, hearing pretty good, so I’m in good shape.” Kirsty Campbell, whose daughter Zoe is in grade two, said Bill cares deeply for all those involved in the school community, from students and parents, to teachers and pets. “He takes his role very seriously and is passionate about ensuring our children are able to access their education as safely as possible,” she said. “He is a wonderful asset to the school and always has a great joke, a smiling face and a caring word to calm the first day of school nerves. He is a school treasure and we are so excited to be able to share his 90th birthday with him.” Molly Magennis

Bill Copeland celebrated his milestone 90th birthday with the Altona College community. (Supplied)

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Keeping kids healthy at school By NWMPHN chief executive, Christopher Carter For many kids, seeing a doctor is a simple matter of asking their parents to make an appointment at the local general practice. For others, however, it can be a much more challenging process. Family stresses sometimes mean that appointments end up not being made. It might be, too, that the nearest clinic is a distance away, with reaching it and getting home again a challenge. And sometimes, if the local clinic doesn’t bulk bill, parents can be worried about the impact of non-urgent doctor visits on the household budget. A few years ago, the Victorian Department of Education and Training recognised this multitude of barriers to basic health care, and devised a program known as Doctors in Secondary Schools (DiSS), which aims to put a specially trained GP and practice nurse in selected schools for one day each week in term times. North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network oversees its smooth rollout across the state. Today, it is available on 100 campuses in metro and rural areas. In our own region, DiSS doctors can be found at schools in several suburbs, including Keilor Downs, Melton, Melton South, Sunbury, Hoppers Crossing and Manor Lakes. In other parts of the metro area and regional Victoria, DiSS is coordinated by our colleagues in neighbouring primary health networks. In all instances, the GPs and nurses who spend time each week at schools work the rest of the time at local clinics. Their involvement in DiSS allows them to deepen links to their community, and to meet families with whom they might not ordinarily come into contact. Consultations are free, which means kids can

Doctors are now in secondary schools across Melbourne’s north-west.

get medical care during school hours without placing additional pressure on working parents. As well as providing treatment and referrals for acute conditions, the DiSS program is designed to provide early intervention supports to kids and their families. The doctors and nurses taking part are skilled in introducing patients to preventative health strategies and to delivering positive

(iStock)

messages to promote healthy behaviours. The aim is to encourage young people to adopt behaviours that will safeguard their general health and wellbeing, reducing over time the need to seek medical care. Doctors in Secondary Schools has been running since 2017 and has racked up well over 40,000 consultations across the state. I’d like to thank the doctors and nurses in our region who

take part, and pay tribute to their commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of young people. Your high school years, some say, are the best days of your life. That might be so, but the DiSS program certainly helps to make sure they are among the healthiest. To check out DiSS in your area, see here: nwmphn.org.au/diss

Poilce briefs Grave robbery charge A 40-year-old man has been charged following an investigation into the disturbance of two graves in Footscray in late January. Police executed a warrant in Mary Street, Spotswood on March 25 and arrested the man who has now been charged with six offences including two counts of removal of body parts from the corpse of a human being, exhuming or removal of human remains from place of interment and criminal damage. Police allegedly recovered what is believed to be the stolen partial human remains at the address. Human remains were stolen from mausoleums in two separate incidents at the Geelong Road cemetery between Thursday, January 27 and Tuesday, February 1. The man will appear before Melbourne Magistrates Court on August 17.

Explicit sexual act Sergeant Stuart Walton. (Supplied)

Lock up bicycles to thwart thieves Bicycle theft is an ongoing issue in Maribyrnong, with opportunistic bike thieves targeting train stations and high-rise apartments where bikes are left unlocked or without basic security measures in place. Footscray Police urge cyclists to always lock up your bike, even when leaving it for short periods of time. Implementing simple steps such as using a good quality combination D-lock and locking cable can deter a would-be offender and prevent a theft from occurring. Quick release components including wheels and other bike accessories should also be

secured with a secondary cable lock. Footscray police members regularly seize suspected stolen bicycles and locate dumped bicycles. Our biggest challenge is reuniting bicycles with their rightful owners. A bicycle thief was recently arrested in Footscray who admitted to dozens of thefts over the last few months, stealing bicycles from railway stations and easy to access locations and selling them cheaply online. Investigations are ongoing to try to identify owners. Cyclists are encouraged to keep photographs

of their bicycle and to engrave their bicycle with an identifying number, storing these details in a safe place. In the unfortunate event of theft, providing this information to police can assist both in investigating the theft and identifying the bicycle’s owner if it is located by police. If you see any suspicious activity, report it to police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential crime report at www. crimestoppersvic.com.au. Senior Sergeant Amanda Bowden, Footscray police

Police are appealing for public assistance after a man performed an explicit sexual act on a train at Williamstown Station last month. Police have been told the man boarded the Werribee line inbound train at Williamstown station on February 18 at 2.30pm. The man sat opposite a 23-year-old woman where he performed a sexual act before getting off the the train at Yarraville.

FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Maribyrnong & Hobsons Bay Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

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EPA names lake polluter By Molly Magennis The Environment Protection Authority (EPA) has named the business responsible for the Cherry Lake pollution incident. Melbourne Transport & Warehousing in Laverton North contaminated the waters of Cherry Creek and Cherry Lake with approximately 12,000 to 13,000 litres of a substance called Teric N9 on March 7, according to the EPA. The chemical substance is often used in shampoos, cosmetics, cleaning products and has a variety of industrial uses. It is toxic to fish and when a high concentration is used, can lead to a loss of oxygen. According to the EPA, the detergent allegedly made its way from the factory through storm water drainage, which then led to an open channel of Cherry Creek. While the EPA has said it would hold the polluter to account, Hobsons Bay mayor Peter Hemphill has also called for harsh penalties for the business responsible. “When all of the details of this incident are known, and if laws have been breached, we hope that any conviction or punishment matches the severity of what has occurred within our environment,” he said. “The message needs to be very loud and very clear. “We share the community’s concern. We know there is an enormous impact to the fish stock within the lake but the area is also popular for birdlife and the effects on the wider biodiversity is still unknown but obviously something we are deeply worried about.” Melbourne Water has been working alongside the EPA during the clean up phase of the incident. It has been responsible for the ongoing removal of dead fish, and has disposed of

Yarraville teen murder charge

nearly 15 tonnes of mostly carp. Other dead animals, such as swans, have also been spotted on the banks of the river. While most of the dead fish have now been removed, Melbourne Water will continue to inspect the lake twice a day and remove any further fish if needed.

Since March 17, approximately 3,000,000 litres of polluted water has been pumped from Humes Drain and Cherry Creek. Pumping and containment will continue as part of the clean up plan. Residents should still avoid contact with waters at Cherry Lake and Cherry Creek, and should not eat or collect the fish.

A Yarraville teenager has been charged with murder over the death of a 16-year-old boy in Reservoir earlier this month. The 16-year-old boy was among among seven people arrested by police on Wednesday, March 23, over the incident on Sunday, March 13. A 17-year-old Taylors Hill boy, a 17-year-old Tarneit boy, a 15-year-old Hoppers Crossing boy, a 13-year-old Meadow Heights boy and a 14-year-old Meadow Heights boy have all also been charged with murder. A 17-year-old Clifton Hill girl has been released pending further inquiries, police said. The arrests follow the death of Declan Cutler after he was allegedly assaulted and stabbed. Declan was treated by paramedics and police, but died at the scene. The investigation remains ongoing and police are appealing for anyone who witnessed the incident or has any information to come forward to police. Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a report online at www. crimestoppersvic.com.au

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FROM THE ARCHIVES Star Weekly looks back through the pages of our predecessors

March 30, 1982

April 1, 1992

March 27, 2002

March 26, 2012

Footscray Football Club president, Dr Tony Capes is disappointed but not downhearted, at the massive defeated suffered by the Bulldogs at Essendon on Saturday.

A competitive cyclist this week blamed the poor condition of Footscray roads for an accident in Hyde St which put him in hospital for three days for plastic surgery and 30 stitches to the head.

Footscray could become the economic hub of the western suburbs under a State Government strategy to restructure parts of metropolitan Melbourne

Back from the brink, trugo makes a comeback.

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‘‘

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(iStock)

for

re places a c d il h c h g u eno ed to deliver il fa s a h t e on Ranges Lisa Chesters d e c a M The mark e th in Kyneton in the families

The reality of a ‘childcare desert’ Data released by the Mitchell Institute at Victoria University this month highlighted the difficulty many families face in accessing childcare across the country. Families in the Macedon Ranges tell Elsie Lange what it’s like trying to secure quality care for their children.

t was when Romsey resident Mara Lazdins was at a mother’s group with her daughter Evija that she realised she might be on the backfoot when it came to getting into a childcare centre. As a first time mum, she had no idea how difficult access to childcare would be in the Macedon Ranges. “They don’t teach you that in pregnancy school,” Ms Lazdins said. She and her husband started hunting around for care when Evija was three months old, and have only now, nine months later, secured a place at a new childcare centre in Romsey. The couple are relieved, but it was a journey that was far from easy. Ms Lazdins said they were lucky her husband was able to work from home one day a week, while she went out and worked as a nurse. “It’s interesting, you read on the Facebook Macedon Ranges pages, [there are] posts saying ‘Hey, we’re moving here, we’re a young family, we need daycare’, and you sort of look at it and think ‘Good luck because everyone else needs daycare as well’,” she said. According to research by the Mitchell Institute at Victoria University released last week, Macedon Ranges exists in a ‘childcare desert’. That is to say, there are more than three children vying for each childcare place available in the municiaplity. Macedon Ranges residents are among the nine million Australian families in the same position. The data paints a picture: in Romsey there are 7.6 children per childcare place, in Riddells Creek there are 6, and in Kyneton there are 5.7. Ms Lazdins said she was told “You have no chance”. Hannah Matthews, a policy fellow at the Mitchell Institute and author of the report, said the findings highlighted how difficult it is for families in the region to get into centre-based daycare – which forces them to consider their options. “One of the interesting things we found here

Mara Lazdins has found it hard to get her daughter Evija into childcare in the Macedon Ranges. (Elsie Lange)

is … the wealthiest areas are able to charge the highest fees and therefore have the highest levels of childcare accessibility,” Ms Matthews said. “This is talking about the private model that we have … where providers are able to determine where they can establish their services. “But the other thing that we found was where we have children under five, from mothers or carers who are living in a childcare desert, there’s also a correlation there with lower levels of workforce participation … because if you have low levels of childcare, then it’s really difficult for mothers to make decisions about work,” she said. Federal Bendigo MP Lisa Chesters said the new data backs up what she’s heard on the ground, and described the situation as “a crisis”. “They say it’s an issue that’s left up to the market, well the market has failed to deliver enough childcare places for the families in Kyneton in the Macedon Ranges,” Ms Chesters said. She said while making childcare more affordable through lifting the subsidy cap,

14 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 30 March, 2022

the federal government would also have to improve access. “There’s no point providing cheaper childcare if you don’t have the places,” she said. “We need a dual approach: we need to increase places as soon as possible, by looking at local solutions, and then we need to encourage a greater build over the long term.” Childcare, which is under federal government jurisdiction, is set to be a hot issue at May’s federal election. In 2018, the Coalition government introduced a Child Care Package, which included a child care subsidy (CCS), following an inquiry by the Productivity Commission into the childcare system. A 2021 evaluation of the package by the Australian Institute of Family Studies (AIFS) said analysis of the data at the time the CCS was introduced, and of the following 18 months, showed “no marked changes in access to child care”. “There are though large differences in access geographically, and issues for children with additional needs,” the evaluation said. A spokesperson for the acting Education Minister Stuart Robert said the Morrison government was proud of its investment in child care. “This will be around $11 billion in 2022-23, including reducing the costs for families with more than one child aged five and under in care,” the spokesperson said. “We introduced the Child Care Subsidy in 2018 to reduce the cost of child care, with low and middle-income families receiving the greatest benefit.” The government says it is tackling ’market gaps’ by investing in a Market Strategy to be delivered by September this year. The strategy will provide “information to government, providers and families to buoy competition and guarantee effective consumer choice”. “Women’s workforce participation has reached a record high of 62.4 per cent,” the spokesperson said. However, this is not the experience of

Romsey mum Danielle Corner who has had to decline multiple job offers because her family didn’t have access to childcare. Ms Corner was two months pregnant when she put her unborn child on one of the local daycare waiting lists. Her baby is now 15 months old and when she recently called the centre for update, she heard she was still number 62 on the list. With some sheer luck and immense persistence, Ms Corner managed to secure her daughter a childcare place so she could commence tertiary study, but it didn’t last long. “Because she got sick all the time, I had to stop studying, but we couldn’t afford to lose our place,” Ms Corner said. “We did find out there was a new centre opening and we waited while paying the other one … in the end she kept getting too sick and we knew the other centre was only two weeks from opening, so I pulled her out of that one in January, and the new centre opens tomorrow.” Gisborne resident Nicole, who did not want her surname published, has to drive a long way to ensure her child is looked after while she goes to work three days a week. “Because I’m working, I kind of had no choice,” she said. She said she wanted to go back to work full time, but couldn’t commit because daycare was so expensive. “I can’t even get a spot, anyway,” she said. Kirsty Long is the new director of the recently-opened Romsey Learning Centre and said parents had been “emotional” when she told them they’d secured a place. “I’ve had parents come in after having their child at the first day of orientation and just thanking me, our service and our company for having what they need from us,” she said. Nicole simply said when it comes to childcare centres in the region, “there’s not enough”. “It’s obviously across the board with every mother in the Macedon Ranges,” she said. Have you had trouble accessing childcare in your area? Let us know your experience at westeditorial@starnweekly.com.au

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

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

Book sale Friends of Altona Library hold a monthly book sale on the first Tuesday, Friday and Saturday of each month at the rear of Altona Library 123 Queen Street, Altona, access via Coles carpark, from 10am-1pm. ■ https://libraries.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/ community/friends-of-the-libraries

Hobsons Bay Garden Club

Photographer’s choice pic is of five-year-old Bilal praying in The Melbourne Grand Mosque in Tarneit. (Damjan Janevski) 273095_01

The Hobsons Bay Garden Club is looking for new members. Meeting’s consist of listening to a guest speaker, taking part in trading table, and most importantly, enjoying afternoon tea while doing so. The group meet on the third Monday of the month at Youth Hall, corner of Civic Parade and Sugar Gum Drive, at 1pm. ■ Kay on 0411793534.

Women’s Choir Willin Wimmin choir welcomes new members. They meet every Wednesday in term time from 7.30-9.30 pm at the Church of Christ Hall in Douglas Parade, Williamstown. There are no auditions and members don’t need to be able to read music. Come along for a free try out. ■ willin.wimmin@gmail.com

Computers for beginners Williamstown Community and Education Centre is now taking enrolments for classes to help those with limited computer skills. Classes are run daily at both Joan Kirner House, Williamstown, and North Altona Library. ■ Lynne or Tahlia, 9397 6168

Walking group Altona Meadows and Newport residents are invited to take part in a Heart Foundation walking group that meets on Wednesdays and Fridays. The group walks for 60 minutes, and is a great way to socialise and get active at the same time. Members are required to register with the Heart Foundation to join. ■ Ian Watson, 0411 566 862 or https://www.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/ Community/Whats-On/Altona-Meadowsand-Newport-Heart-Foundation-WalkingGroups

Williamstown Craft Market Commonwealth Reserve comes alive on the third Sunday of the month for the Williamstown Craft Market. The market boasts more than 50 stalls showcasing everything from handmade craft, homegrown produce and food vendors. There will also be live music. From 10am-4pm. ■ https://www.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/ Community/Whats-On/Williamstown-CraftMarket

Williamstown. ■ 9932 3016 or www.hobsonsbaytickets.com.au

Musicians welcome Do you play trumpet, flute or lower brass instruments? The Hobsons Bay City Band is seeking musicians to join its community band. Rehearsals are held Mondays from 7.30pm at the Newport Lakes Primary School, Elizabeth Street, Newport. ■ Roger Lewis, hbcityband@gmail.com, or www.hbcb.org.au

Altona North combined probus The Altona North combined probus club meets on the fourth Wednesday of each month at Altona Sports Club. ■ Lesley, 0414 481 442

Macedon Ranges Autumn Festival

The Yarraville Mouth Organ Band meets Friday evenings at 203 Williamstown Road, Yarraville. Great music, friendly atmosphere. Everyone is welcome. ■ Heather, 9399 2190

Make sure to check out what’s on at the Macedon Ranges Autumn Festival. From the Woodend Autumn Farmers Market, to a traditional straw weaving workshop, to Don Watson in conversation, to live music park pop-ups – there’s so much delight to be had across the shire. ■ https://bit.ly/3NmiBDt

Altona Day View (Voice Interest and Education of Women) Club meets at 11am on the third Wednesday of the month at Altona RSL. The club is always open to new members, and anyone interested is encouraged to get in touch today and see what it’s all about. ■ Janet 9394 6522 or 0412 010 176.

Diabetes support group

CWA art exhibition

The Westgate diabetes support group meets on the first Tuesday of every month at the Altona Bowling Club at 10am. ■ Elaine, 0415 030 996

Are you up for seeing some cute and quirky local art? Head to Creative Art Exhibit by the Country Women’s Association of Victoria Central Highlands Group. Happening at the Mechanics Institute in Lancefield on Saturday, April 9 and Sunday April 10, opening at 10am both days.

Step back in time and unlock the secrets of the historic Williamstown waterfront and seaport. Tours operate every Tuesday and Friday throughout autumn (excluding public holidays) departing from the Hobsons Bay Visitor Information Centre in Commonwealth Reserve, Nelson Place,

Lancefield park run relaunch Lace up your runners and join the relaunch of Lancefield’s 5km park run, happening every Saturday at 8am at Lancefield Park. No need to be speedy - participants can go

Exhibition in Mount Macedon If you’ve got a hankering to see some stunning Japanese paper cords and kimono fabric? Look no further. Head to The Gallery Mount Macedon to see works by Anna Konecny and Yukimi Breaden. At 684 Mount Macedon Road, Mount Macedon. ■ https://bit.ly/3hS2BdN

Rotary club Puppy Pride

Mouth organ band

The Conversation Cafe is back on at Footscray and Braybrook libraries. The Cafe gives people the chance to meet new people and practice English conversation skills in a relaxed and friendly environment. ■ https://www.maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/ library/Events/Conversation-Cafe

Williamstown heritage walking tours

Sunbury Seniors meet on Mondays and Fridays at 8 O’Shanassy Street, Sunbury from 10am-3pm. A variety of activities are offered – indoor bowls, cards, snooker, guest speakers, day excursions, subsidised lunches or just a cup of coffee and a chat. If you’re 55 or older and would like to make some new friends. ■ 0493 408 890

Rotary Club of Point Gellibrand meets at Customs House Hotel, 161 Nelson Place, Williamstown, on the first and third Tuesday of the month from 6pm for a 6.30pm dinner meeting. Visitors welcome. ■ Pam, 0418 347 691, or rotarypointgellibrand@gmail.com

Rotary club

at Hanging Rock Winery, on until Monday, April 25, could not be more of a perfect outing. You can even enjoy a guided cellar wine tasting. At 88 Jim Road, Newham. ■ https://bit.ly/3tHZFpz

Sunbury Seniors

In what is set to be a barking good time, bring your dog down to the Kyneton Botanic Gardens on Sunday, April 10 for a celebration of puppies and pride! The free LGBTIQA+ event is open to everyone and is part of the Macedon Ranges Autumn Festival, packed with food and fun. Get to St Agnes Place at 11.30am for the dog walk, or to the botanic gardens at noon for celebrations. ■ https://bit.ly/3DbYDX3

Friendship Group Conversation Cafe

at any pace. Make your way to 62 Chauncey Street, Lancefield, and remember to register. ■ https://bit.ly/3IEDB4L

Sunbury mental health forum Do you feel like you’d know what to do in a mental health emergency? Check out Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health’s mental health forum on Wednesday, April 6, at 6.30pm, taking place at the Hume Global Learning Centre in Sunbury. ■ https://bit.ly/3igWHTO

The Sunbury Rotary Club meets every Tuesday at the Sunbury Bowling Club from 7pm. ■ sunburyrotary@gmail.com

Ladies probus The Woodlands Ladies Probus Club of Sunbury meets on the fourth Monday of each month at the Sunbury Bowling Club at 9.45 am. The club is based on fun, friendship and fellowship and enjoys monthly outings, an annual trip away and a lot of fun meetings. ■ Val, 0418138214.

Sunbury Combined Probus Club The Sunbury Combined Probus Club meets every fourth Thursday of the month at the Sunbury Football Social Club at 10am. ■ Carmel, 0416 477 271.

Toastmasters Sunbury & Macedon Ranges Toastmasters helps its members develop their public speaking, communication and leadership skills. The group meets on the first and third Tuesday of each month, from 7.20-9.30pm, at the Sunbury Senior Citizens Hall. ■ vpm-4185@toastmastersclubs.org

Garden club Sunbury over-40s night If you’re over 40 and looking for a great time listening to vinyl and dancing to tracks from the ‘70s, ‘80s and ‘90s, head to the Sunbury Over 40s night. From 8pm, old school DJs will play five hours of music on Saturdy, April 9 at Club Sunbury. Tickets are $25. ■ https://bit.ly/3KQfdi3

Sculptures and wine For lovers of art and wine, Art in the Vines

The Sunbury Garden Club meets on the first Tuesday of every month. There is a guest speaker at each meeting, which starts at 7.30pm at the Sunbury Football Club. ■ Cheryl, 9744 1663

Keilor probus Keilor Combined Probus Club meets the third Monday of each month at Keilor Pub. ■ Steve, 0408 193 793, or Keith, 0409 494 801

Wednesday, 30 March, 2022 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 15

PUZZLES No. 074

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

5 3 8

6 9

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

medium

2 8

8 3 7 9 2 4 3

4 6 9

QUICK CROSSWORD Conclude (3,2) Aquatic home (9) Chocolate tree (5) Artifice (9) Animal that gives birth to live young (6) One who exaggerates a danger (8) Teaching tool (10) Exclamation of surprise (3) Born (3) Extremely angry (10) Reveres (8) Fisher (6) Backtracking (9) Yens (5) Self-indulgence (9) 10th US president, John — (5)

12 14 15 17 19 23 24 26 27 28 29

Numbered by tens (7) Ordinary; unromantic (of writing) (7) Entertainer (4) Shaky (10) Went into (7) Continuing (7) Fruit (plural) (8) Digestion (10) Responded (8) Inconsistent (7) Stuck (7) Pipe (7) Contrary to law (7) Rubber (6) Illness (4)

2 3

ACROSS 1 4 9 10 11

No. 074

4 5 6 7 8 13 16 18 19 20 21 22 25

DOWN Pitch tents (6)

DECODER

No. 074

9 2 5 7 5

1 7

7 2 9 3 8

4 2 hard

2 3

2 1

10 11 12 13

K N 17

5 LETTERS ABORT ALLOT AMISS APART ARENA ASIDE AVAIL BACKS CASTE COLIC CRANE DRAWN DRIPS EDGED EERIE ENTRY ERASE FAUNA FETID GAMUT

Today’s Aim: 16 words: Good 24 words: Very good

5 7 6 9 1 8 4 2 3

9 1 2 4 3 7 5 6 8

2 5 7 1 9 6 8 3 4

GEARS GENIE GLARE HANDY HASTE HEDGE KORAN LURED MARIA MEATS PLEAS PRISM RAFTS SCARF SEWER SHARP SIREN SLEET STAIR STEER STEPS

SWEPT TAMES TEENS TIRES USING WAFTS WHENS WHIRR YOURE 6 LETTERS NEEDLE PSEUDO REHASH RESIDE

7 LETTERS FLASHER LEAFIER MAIMING MONGREL RINSING WARFARE 8 LETTERS APPEARED INTEREST TOMORROW TORTILLA

01-04-22

No. 074 Insert the missing letters to make 10 words – five reading across the grid and five reading down.

QUICK QUIZ

The 1995 film Clueless is loosely base on which of Jane Austen's novels?

In what year were denim jeans invented?

In what year was Netflix founded?

Which Formula One race was discontinued in 2013 due to poor attendance?

Which of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World is still standing?

Which film won the 2019 GLAAD Media Award for Outstanding Film?

The primary ingredient in tonic water, quinine, is also used to treat what disease?

10 Honeybell oranges are also know as what?

Who won the 2020 Stella Prize?

Reese Witherspoon (pictured) co-produced and stared in which 2017 miniseries?

NOTE: more than one solution may be possible

V E N T A S E R G I L E A R A N

3 9 5 2 4 1 7 8 6

7 2 1 6 8 9 3 4 5

7 9 2 3 4 1 8 6 5

1 4 5 7 6 8 9 3 2

9 8 1 4 5 3 7 2 6

2 5 6 9 1 7 3 8 4

3 7 4 6 8 2 5 9 1

4 1 7 8 9 6 2 5 3

6 2 9 1 3 5 4 7 8

5 3 8 2 7 4 6 1 9

4 1 8 2 3 9 6 5 7

9 7 3 5 1 6 4 8 2

6 3 4 1 9 7 8 2 5

8 9 5 4 2 3 7 1 6

7 2 1 8 6 5 9 3 4

2 5 6 3 7 8 1 4 9

3 4 9 6 5 1 2 7 8

1 8 7 9 4 2 5 6 3

16 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 30 March, 2022

E N D S

8 6 4 3 7 5 2 9 1

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

4 LETTERS CAMP EARL GEED KISS KNIT OWNS PAST RAGS SAGS SWAP TENT USED WAYS WRAP

No. 074

adieu, adult, altitude, alum, amulet, audit, auld, datum, dilute, dual, duel, duet, etui, ileum, latitude, laud, lieu, lute, maul, mauled, mule, mutate, mutated, mute, muted, mutilate, MUTILATED, mutt, taut, tedium, tumid, ultimate, utile

1 4 9 8 2 3 6 5 7

L A S

8 6 3 5 2 9 1 4 7

4 8 3 5 6 2 1 7 9

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”.

Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

9-LETTER WORD

33 words: Excellent

hard

medium

easy

3 LETTERS ALL ARE AVO IMP INN INS IRE ITS NAP NEE ORE OWL PEA PEN PIE PIS PRO RED RUN SAC TEE UGH UPS WEE

T U I OV C E F X Y RWZ

6 9

7 2

5x5

8 2

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

5 4 1

3 6

GD L S HQA B P J MK N

2 8 3

WORDFIT

ANSWERS: 1. Emma 2. 1871 3. The Great Pyramid of Giza 4. Malaria 5. Jess Hill for See What You Made Me Do 6. Big Little Lies 7. 1997 8. The Korean Grand Prix 9. Love, Simon 10. Minneola tangelos

SUDOKU

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Wednesday, 30 March, 2022 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 17

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Altona Gators show they are hungry for success Altona Gators are hungry for success in the Big V women’s division 2 competition. After sitting on top of the ladder in their first season back, the Gators didn’t get the chance to test themselves against the best in the finals due to the season ending early due to COVID. And with Sherbrooke Suns, who finished below them on the ladder, being promoted, it’s a case of what might have been. Gators coach Cameron Wilkosz said they were keen to continue on with what they did last season, their first year back having a women’s side. “Disappointing, is one adjective,” he said of not having a chance to play finals and get promoted. “We were really confident we could win the whole thing. Sherbrooke was promoted, even though we were above them on the ladder. “We are so much more hungry and we want

to win. Division 2 is not where Altona should be.” Several players from last season’s team have returned, as the Gators continue to focus on local talent. Wilkosz said they needed to continue to help provide pathways for the younger players. “We’ve had an influx of players, with a couple of new players and a few returning players.

“Most of the kids live in Altona and have played youth league for the club. There’s a lot of talent in the Altona area. “When Randy Shanklin was away, I coached the under-18s for a month and it was good to know more about them. “A few have now started to training with us.” One of the home grown players is Jess Rarity, who is captain this season. Last season she combined playing youth league and senior divisions. “She’s played with us since she was 11,” Wilkosz said. “She’s a do as I do sort of captain and leads by example. “Reyhan Aziz won our most valuable player award last season.” Sharna Appleby is another player Wilkosz is looking forward to seeing more of on the court after breaking her hand last season. The Gators started off in fine form with a

close win against Coburg Giants, which has several players who have played at the higher level. On Sunday, the Gators made it two from two with a massive win against the Collingwood All Stars. The Gators were really strong defensively, including keeping the All-Stars to just 11 points in the first half. The Gators stepped it up in the second half on the scoreboard, to win 101-45. All eight Gators got at least 19 minutes on the court, with every player scoring. Appleby top scored wth 27 points. The Gators men’s side won both their games on the weekend. On Saturday night, the Gators beat Whittlesea Pacers 73-62, before backing it up on Sunday with an 81-79 win against Pakenham. Tara Murray

Season over

Hayden Foxe

(Supplied).

Foxe happy to be part of the family at United By Tara Murray Western United will continue to take it one week at a time despite growing expectations in the A-League. Having already succeeded their results of last season, United has been one of the best performing teams this season, having taken points in nine of the last 10 games. United assistant coach Hayden Foxe said the group continues to take things as they come. “The players are really buying into what we’re doing, not just on field, but with their conduct off the field as well. “The group wants to keep improving and improve as a club. We’re taking it week by week and getting better every day and improving every game which is showing on the football field every week. “We’re not putting a limit on what they can do this season … we’ll keep building strongly. It’s a fantastic playing group.” Speaking after United’s midweek 1-1 draw

with Melbourne Victory, Foxe said the group were able to regroup after a disappointing loss to Sydney in the previous match. “The performance was really good after a tough game on the weekend,” he said. “Victory is a tough opposition and Sydney challenge for the title and we faced them back-to-back. “It was a good response. I felt we had a lot of the ball and were unlucky to cop an injury to Josh Risdon which meant that we had to shuffle things around. “We made it difficult for them. We showed desperation at the end and this group has shown that all season.“They are creating something special.” Foxe said they weren’t sure of the severity of Risdon’s injury, but said there’s always a lot of concern when someone like Risdon goes down. For Foxe, who is in his first season at the club, he said he couldn’t have asked for much more. The former Australian international has been involved at three other A-League in coaching roles since retiring from playing.

Having worked with United coach John Aloisi previously, he said it had been an easy decision to join the club. “United has been a fantastic club, a family club,” he said.“They really look after their own family and it’s great to be part of. This industry can be quite cut through. There’s another side, a really caring side.“John got the head coaching role and I worked with him before, I know what values he wants and this team stands for on and off the field.“It was a very easy decision to join his coaching staff.” United was set to face Brisbane Roar on Saturday, after deadline. Foxe said they would continue to keep it pretty simple as they look to continue their good form.“We’re not looking too far ahead, every game is its own challenge. “Every team will challenge you and you have to keep preparing week by week and who knows where you will end up. “There’s a chance to create something special.”

Williamstown Congs weren’t able to keep the momentum going in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association division 5 grand final series on Sunday. After winning game two of the best-of-three grand finals series against Roxburgh Park to keep the series alive, the Congs were hoping for a similar result on Saturday in game three. The Congs won the toss and elected to bat, and made 8-161 from their overs. Rajan Aiyappan top scored with 40 not out, while Asif Rasool 3-36 off eight overs for the Falcons. The Falcons timed their run to perfection hitting the winning runs in the second last over. The Falcons finished 6-162. Shahid Mahmood top scored with 36. Karandeep Singh was the pick of the bowlers for the Congs, finishing with 2-37. Despite the loss, the Congs have still earned promotion into division 4 for next season. The grand final series was one of three to go to a third match. In the senior division, Haig Fawkner came from 1-0 down to beat Aberfeldie. In a repeat of the T20 grand final, the result would go a different way with Haig Fawkner winning on Saturday. In game three, Aberfeldie batted first after winning the toss. Abers made 5-169 from their 40 overs with Shaifi Moazzem top scoring with 45 not out. It was all single wicket takers for Haig Fawkner, with Charith Mendis the most economical. Haig Fawkner lost an early wicket, but a strong second wicket partnership would put them back in the game. The 100-run partnership between Jaspreet Bhatti and Dilan Soysa took the score to 1-124. While Haig Fawkner would lose a few more wickets in the run chase, the runs were made with ease. Haig Fawkner hit the winning runs with five and half overs remaining, finishing 5-172. Bhatti top scored with 67. Moazzem took two wickets for Abers, as they threw the ball around looking for a wicket. Nine players had a bowl in the innings. In division 3, Footscray United came from 1-0 down against Grand United to claim the premiership. Deer Park, Caroline Springs and Sydenham-Hillside all claimed premierships on the first weekend. Tara Murray

Wednesday, 30 March, 2022 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 19

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West Falcons’ tough start continues The City West Falcons aren’t hitting the panic button yet despite one of their worst performances in a number of years in the Victorian Netball League championship division. Facing the Geelong Cougars on Sunday was always going to be a tough ask for the Falcons, without having a less than ideal week leading into the match. It showed with the understrength Falcons, losing 63-34, against one of the competition favourites. Falcons coach Marg Lind said they always knew it was going to be tough heading into this week. “The Samoan and Tongan players left the day after the game against the Blaze for the south Pacific Games in Sydney,” Lind said. “The five players only got back the night before the game after a pretty big week. “Then Jane Cook had COVID-19 which was a big blow for us. “We knew we would be treading water

and thought we would be pushing. We were expecting the margin to be within 10 goals though. “We caved pretty early, which was disappointing.” In the absence of Cook, Sri Lankan Tharjini Sivalingam came in and played a half having only just arrived in the country. Lind said despite Sivalingam, who has played for the Falcons previously, being jet lagged she was their best player on court playing two quarters. She said Sivalingam might play more games with the club this season. Under-19s player Kiralee Collings stepped up into the championship division to help provide some more run in the mid court, with Lind saying it was a really good effort by her. Lind said despite two losses in a row, they know it’s not all doom and gloom. “We copped two of the better teams, so it could be positive as they were maybe games

we would have lost anyway. “We are realistic that it is going to take some time. We’ve got the recipe there, but the meal takes time to cook. “The Falcons will never lie down. It might end up being a rebuilding year, which we’ve done before.” There were mixed results for the Falcons across the three grades. The division 1 side lost 54-45. Lind said they thought they should have won that game, but ran out of legs late. Like the championship side, the division 1 side is without a win. The under-19s won 58-44. “They were 10 down which is a really big margin and they fought back,” Lind said. They are a really good group with a number of really young kids.” Tara Murray Marg Lind.

(Shawn Smits)

Isabella serves for gold By Peter Howe Volleyballer Isabella Maticevski has always been very competitive. So when she came across volleyball in year five, she thought it was the sport for her. A year later she was picked in the school team due to her height and everything has gone from there. “It looked like it was a nice sport for me, it seemed to be fun,” she recalls. “We had no idea of the skills required, we just enjoyed competing.” This would be the start of a budding volleyball career. With not many places to hone her craft, Maticevski was able to find a junior development squad in Maribyrnong run by Michael Dolan. Dolan also happened to be the head volleyball coach at the Maribyrnong Sports Academy. “Volleyball is not played in many places, yet I still wanted to pursue this sport,” Maticevski said. “I wasn’t zoned to the school, but I gained select entry through my academic results and athletic ability. “As a junior at MSA our training revolved around learning the basic volleyball skills that are critical to know and practice, digging, setting and spiking. “Michael is still my coach and without him I wouldn’t have represented Victoria or Australia.” Maticevski has represented Victoria at under-15, 16, 17 and 18 levels and won several awards at representative level. Just prior to the enforced COVID break she was chosen in the Volleyball Australia youth women’s team to play a friendly against New Zealand at the AIS in Canberra. Now out of the junior ranks, Maticevski is playing in the Melbourne Renegades Club based at Melbourne University where she trains twice a week. “I think I have always been a mature and responsible person, probably from hearing about my father, Lou played soccer and competed in athletics, internationally,” she said. “He would always speak to his coaches to learn and improve. He was very disciplined to ensure he was always at his very best to compete. My mother Bo has instilled this in me too. “The year I captained the under-15 team was my toughest experience but also a pivotal time that helped shape my leadership skills.” Maticevski has a simple mantra that she has applied to everything she does, “If they can do it, so can I.” She has been an integral part of the MSA beach volleyball program and won a bronze

Isabella Maticevski is this month’s Deeble nominee. (Supplied)

medal in the 2018 Volleyball Australia, Beach National Championships, as well as placing first in the Victorian Beach Volleyball school championships three straight years. On court, Maticevski has big goals. “I hope to be chosen in the 2023 Australian Volleyball Academy and go to the AIS, and if that is the case. The 2032 Olympics in Brisbane is my long-term sporting aim.” Maticevski is the March nominee for the

20 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 30 March, 2022

Don Deeble Award. The Don Deeble Sports Star Award is sponsored by the Yarraville Club Cricket Club, Strathmore Community Bank, the Deer Park Club, Ascot Vale Sports and Trophies and Star Weekly Newspapers. If you would like to nominate a monthly winner or attend a dinner at the Medway Golf Club, please contact the club by emailing swrsportsclub@gmail.com or sms 0408 556 631.

Magic snare important win Altona Magic put in its best performance of the National Premier League season to seal an important win against Heidelberg United on Sunday. Looking for their second win of the season, the Magic put in a complete performance to come away with the 2-1 win. The Magic scored both their goals in the first half through Vince Lia and Cherif Mohamed Aidara, with Heidelberg scoring a consolation goal in the dying minutes. Magic coach Savvas Patikkis said he couldn’t be prouder of the playing group. “We had a plan and the boys executed the plan,” he said. “I couldn’t have expected any more from them. We worked on tactics during the week and we made sure we were ready for the battle. “The boys really fought hard and walked away with the three points, which was the most important thing.” Patikkis said that the group had taken plenty of confidence from its mid-week Australia Cup match against Bentleigh United Cobras which they had won 9-1. Magic scored four goals in the first half, before piling on another five after the brea, “We played a team in a lower league, but scoring nine goals at any senior level environment is never easy.” Sunday’s win was the Magic’s second of the season, with the side currently sitting ninth. Patikkis said they had hoped to be a little higher on the table at this point of the season considering the teams they had played so far. “It is still a relatively new squad and we are in the early stages of our journey,” he said. “We’re taking each week as it comes, but we’re not entirely happy with the season as we had hoped to have won a couple more games. “We will talk during the week and the performance on Sunday will be a starting point. “We have been playing good football every week bar one week, If we can put together the performance on the weekend consistently each week it would be good. That is what good teams do.” The Magic this week face Port Melbourne away from home. Port Melbourne currently sit third with three wins and three draws. Patikkis said it was time to put multiple wins on the board. “Port Melbourne are a tough side and are in form and have momentum. We play Dandenong the week after. “It’s a couple of big games for us.” Tara Murray

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Polson to continue the Williamstown legacy By Tara Murray New Williamstown captain Cameron Polson wants to continue the strong history of the Victorian Football League club, while creating his own. Pulson was named the Seagulls new captain, replacing Adam Marcon, who has retired from VFL level. “I’m extremely humbled and honoured to be captain of Williamstown,” Polson said. “I know it is a massive deal for those who have been involved with the club for a long time. “It’s my second year at the club now. I was surprised when I found out I was in the mix… leadership is something that comes fairly natural to me, I go out my way and tried to impart my wisdom on the young kids and make sure they feel comfortable. It was a player led decision, so it’s a bit of recognition there.” Despite being just his second season at the club, Polson is quite aware of the history that surrounds the club. He said those who have come before him have left the club in a really good position. “That is one of the main things I feel really

Williamstown chief executive Ash Baker and leadership group Liam Hunt, Jake Greiser, Cam Polson, former player George Mazouris and coach Justin Plapp. (Joe Mastroianni) 272887

strongly about as leader of the club,” he said. “I say this all the time to the younger guys, the culture has already been created. “Willy has a really clear brand and identity so we’re not in a position where we have to sit down and do values meetings and forge a brand it is already there for us. “We’re obliged to live the values and make sure the club stays the way it has been for quite a long time.”

After an interrupted last couple of seasons due to COVID-19, Polson said they were all keen to get back on the field. The Seagulls will take in a slightly different line up, compared to the last couple of years. “This year was the first pre-season we went back to prior to Christmas, we have had a really big block of training. “I think everyone is ready for games now, preseason has been great. I’m quite confident

about this year. “I think the age profile is younger than what it has been in previous years and the young talent we have is really good.” Corey Preston, Charlie Molan, Fraser Phillips, Finbar O’Dwyer, Jack Toner and Noah Gown are some of the young players Polson is excited to see on the field. With a different group, Polson said how they play this season would be a bit different. “The game style might look a bit more open like flowy,” he said. It’s important to me to keep the hard Willy edge and it’s something we’re talking about now. “It’s good to have a game plan with high skill and high speed but Willy has been successful for such a long time as they play that physical game well. Polson hasn’t shied away from the club’s expectations. “I think the club has played finals for the last 10 seasons or so,” he said. “At the VFL season launch… they asked me the same question, I don’t feel uncomfortable saying that we want to play finals, there’s nothing wrong with putting that on the agenda.”

Sports Shorts Soccer Altona City had a good win against Keilor Park in round two of the FV state league 1 north-west season. Altona opened the scoring in the first half, before Keilor Park hit back early in the second. A goal to Ross Harvey in the 87th sealed Altona’s first win of the season, with Altona winning 2-1. In other matches, Yarraville Glory had a 0-0 draw with Corio.

Australia Cup

Footscray United premiership side.

(supplied)

MCG victory celebration By Tara Murray Footscray United took its premiership celebrations all the way to the Melbourne Cricket Ground to share the win with the late Shane Warne. Captain-coach Shafraz Mohamed, who wears the number 23 on his jumper just like Warne, told the playing group if they won the third game of the Victorian Turf Cricket Association division 3 grand final series against Grand United, they would celebrate with Warne, who recently died of a heart attack. “I made a promise to the group that we would go and have a beer with the great man if we won,” he said. “We took the flag to the MCG and celebrated at the Shane Warne statue.” United won the premiership the hard way, after losing game one of the best-of-three grand final series. After winning game two, United took plenty of confidence into game three on Saturday. Batting first United made 9-190 from their overs with Lahiru Kumara finishing 54 not out

Matthew Hayes and Rhys Mutch three wickets each for Grand United. Mohamed said they were happy with that score on the board. “I just told the boys to enjoy the game as that is how we play our best cricket,” he said. “It was a good toss to win so we could get the score on the board … 190 was plenty of runs. “Young Daniel Melican who is only 17 scored a 49 to almost make it back-to-back 50s. United changed their bowling attack around in the third game as they were looking to get on top. Grand United was 1-102 before crumbling to be all out for 169. The last six wickets fell for just 19. “We had a plan,” said Mohamed. “Their opening bat was on a pair so we knew that he would be conservative. “We didn’t have our best bowlers at the start and their opening made 30 off about 90 balls which played into our hands. “We knew we had the best bowling attack in the competition.”

Kumara pick of the bowlers with 4-38. Melican was named player of the grand final series. Mohamed said it was pleasing to see home grown players like Melican and Frank Hoang be part of the premiership side and play a role. The premiership is the club’s sixth first XI premiership in 87 years. The win means the club will get promoted to division 2 for next season, a second successive promotion for the club. Mohamed said it was all pretty special. “The promotion is the icing on the cake,” he said. “I’ve played in two premierships before, but not as captain-coach. The club is in a really good position with new sponsors on board. “It’s a great club and a great group. “We’ve got a small lot of volunteers, they have done a massive job, we couldn’t have done it without them.” Mohamed said they would look to add a few players for next season as they go up a division, but was confident with the group they’ve already got they will be more than competitive.

Yarraville Glory upset National Premier League 2 side in the fourth round of the Australia Cup last Wednesday night. The Glory needed extra time to get the win against Northcote, in a massive result. Neither team could score in the first half. Northcote went a man down in the 64th minute when Johnny Apostolopoulos was given a red card. Shariff Abdul Karim scored for Glory from the resulting penalty. Northcote hit back seven minutes later through a penalty of their own, with scores locked 1-1 at the end of regular time. Daniel Parkinson scored in the 95th minute for the Glory and it would be enough to seal the win. Altona Magic beat Bentleigh United Cobras, 9-1.

Rugby Altona Roosters started off the NRL Victoria Storm Premiership season with a loss on Saturday. Facing the Waverley Oakleigh Panthers in the first grade competition, the Roosters lost 38-20. In the other match, the Truganina Rabbitohs started the season with a big win against Werribee Bears winning, 56-34. In the first grade women’s competition, the Bears beat the Rabbitohs 20-4.

VFL It was a tough start to the Victorian Football League season for Williamstown on Sunday. Facing North Melbourne, the Seagulls were trailed by nearly eight goals at three quarter time. While they were able to kick five last quarter goals, the Seagulls fell short, losing 15.12 (102)-11. 12 (78). FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Maribyrnong & Hobsons Bay Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Wednesday, 30 March, 2022 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 21

Western Jets play off for a grand final berth The Western Jets will enter the finals full of confidence after a strong win against the Eastern Ranges on Sunday. The Jets, who haven’t lost since round one, again showed their depth and talent in the win against the finals contender in the final round of the season. The Ranges started the better of the two sides and led by eight points at quarter time, kicking three goals to two. The Jets then started to get into the game, kicking three goals to none to take the lead at the main break. Another goal less quarter from the Ranges allowed the Jets to extend their margin to nearly five goals at the last break after they kicked three of their own. Neither team was able to break away in the last quarter, with two goals apiece enough for the Jets to seal the 10.2 (62)-5.5 (35) win.

Caitlin Sargent kicked three goals in the win, while Sierra Grieves chipped in with a couple of her own. Sargent finished the regular season with 17 goals, the equal most in the competition. The midfield duo of Charlotte Baskaran and Montana Ham were both busy, with 29 and 28 possessions respectively. The win leaves the Jets in second spot heading into the finals. It will be a familiar opponent for the Jets on Friday night, with the Jets to face the Ranges for a second straight week. The two teams will play Friday night. The two teams knew heading into the final round that it would be the case. The winner will play off the grand final the following week. Eastern Ranges will face the Geelong Falcons in the other semi final. Sides not in finals will also play this

weekend, in a consolation round to finish off their seasons. Other final rounds winners were the Calder Cannons, Geelong Falcons, Northern Knights, Northern Territory and the Greater Western Victoria Rebels. Meanwhile, the NAB League boys season kicks off this weekend. The Jets are set to face the Brisbane Lions Academy on Sunday at Highgate Recreation Reserve. In other first round matches, the Calder Cannons will face the GWS Giants, the Bendigo Pioneers will host the Greater Western Victoria Rebels, the Northern Knights will play the Sydney Swans, Dandenong Stingrays will play the Eastern Ranges, the Murray Bushrangers will play the Gippsland Power, the Sandringham Dragons will play the Oakleigh Chargers and the Geelong Falcons

Sierra Grieves kicked two goals on Sunday. (Joe MastroiannI). 268325

will play the Gold Coast Suns. Tara Murray

Support for local rugby

Williamstown VFLW nab it’s first win since round two.

(Lisa Waters)

Seagulls return to form By Molly Magennis The Williamstown Seagulls have come back from the break with a bang, defeating Port Melbourne by 30 points. The win marked the Gull’s first victory since round two, and has come as a welcome morale and confidence boost for the team. Following Williamstown’s tough loss to North Melbourne, coach Penny Cula-Reid said she hoped the week-long break would act as a “circuit breaker”. Tough conversations were had during this time to try and assess exactly where the team were headed going forward. It was these discussions, along with the return of ‘A-grade players’ Ruby Tripodi and Tayla Dinnucio, that contributed to the team’s much needed win at the weekend. “It was a little bit of a tough conversation for both parties because I put it back on them to say, what can I do to improve what do you want to see? What changes would you like to see, what do you want to see more of, what do

you want to see less of?” Cula-Reid said. “It was really good to have those one-on-one conversations and open up communication with the players and build that relationship.” High pressure players Tripodi and Dinnucio, who were both sick for the match against North Melbourne, made their return in round six and made a notable difference. Tripodi managed 16 disposals and five tackles and Dinnucio scored a major for the Gulls, while also racking up 11 disposals and six tackles of her own. AFLW listed player Aimee Whelan, who previously played for the Gull’s, also made a return, which Cula-Reid said really boosted the girls morale. “I think there was a really good momentum swing once you know Aimee was available to play and we had Ruby back, we had Tayla back, [there were] good vibes around the group,” she said. “I think on the weekend was the first time that I actually saw our girls connect on the field.”

22 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 30 March, 2022

Williamstown absolutely dominated with their inside 50’s, something they have struggled with previously, managing 42 to Port’s 18. This, Cula-Reid said, represented just how connected the whole team was on the field, from the setup in backline to the pressure in the midfield, it all contributed to getting goals on the scoreboard. “Our backs have been working on their setup … so they structured up really well which allowed us to get those repeat entries and our forwardline have been working on their pressure. “Winning in the midfield, our forwards being able to put the pressure on and hit the ball in there and then our backs being able to rebound, it all just started to fall into place.” The Seagulls will take on Darebin on Saturday, April 2 on home turf from 2pm. PORT MELBOURNE 1.1 2.2 2.2 3.4 (22) WILLIAMSTOWN 1.3 4.4 6.6 7.10 (52)

It will be a new era for community rugby league in Victoria. NRL Victoria and Melbourne Storm recently announced that the senior competition would be called the Storm Premiership, having previously been known as the NRL Victoria competition. The “Storm Premiership” branding will be used for all senior competitions while “Storm Junior League” – introduced in season 2021 - will be extended to all junior competitions, from under-6 to under-18s. NRL chief executive Andrew Abdo and Melbourne Storm chief executive Justin Rodski recently met with players, parents, volunteers and referees from local rugby league clubs ahead of the season. “Victoria has been hit particularly hard by COVID over the last two years, but we are hoping to see community footy return without interruption in the season ahead,” Abdo said. “Sport provides a wonderful connection for our community and whether you are a player, parent, coach, referee or volunteer it brings people together. We can’t wait for the season to kick off. “It’s great to see so much enthusiasm in the game here in Victoria and the NRL and commission will be doing all we can to grow the game in the years ahead.” As part of the partnership between Storm and NRL Victoria, every registered participant in Victoria– players, volunteers, coaches and referees – will become members of Storm if they choose to as part of the club’s commitment to growing the game. “We know it’s been difficult for some families over the last two years to reconnect with the game,” Rodski said. “Storm was keen to bring as many people back to the game they love, which is why we have partnered with NRL Victoria to rebrand their local competitions and provide an incentive to be involved. “The great thing about our game is that it can be played by everyone, whether it is a game of touch, tackle or tag. We hope to see as many people as possible back playing, coaching, refereeing or just watching the game as possible.” Senior competitions were set to kick off on the weekend, with junior competitions to start after Easter.

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Gayle Williams

Leo Dardha

Mark Caval

Jack McDonald

Chris Byrne

ROUND 3 LW 5

LW 7

LW 4

LW 5

Jack McDonald Keilor Golf Club

Zeus Aloah Motors

Chris Byrne Yarraville Club

Gayle Williams Star Weekly

Sydney Melbourne Port Adelaide GWS Geelong Brisbane Carlton Richmond Fremantle

Western Bulldogs Melbourne Port Adelaide Gold Coast Suns Geelong Brisbane Carlton Richmond Fremantle

Western Bulldogs Melbourne Adelaide GWS Collingwood Brisbane Carlton Richmond Fremantle

Sydney Melbourne Port Adelaide Gold Coast Suns Geelong Brisbane Carlton St Kilda Fremantle

PH: 9390 1538

PH: 0413 904 368

PH: 9689 6033

THURSDAY MARCH 31 Western Bulldogs V Sydney (MRVL) FRIDAY APRIL 1 Melbourne V Essendon (MCG) Adelaide V Port Adelaide (AO) SATURDAY APRIL 2 GWS V Gold Coast Suns (GS) Collingwood V Geelong (MCG) Brisbane V North Melbourne (G) SUNDAY APRIL 3 Carlton V Hawthorn (MCG) St Kilda V Richmond (MRVL) West Coast V Fremantle (OS) *Correct at time of publishing

PH: 8318 5777

GROUNDS KEY: (AO) Adelaide Oval, (AS) Accor Stadium, (BA) Blundstone Arena, (G) Gabba, (GS) Giants Stadium, (M) Mars Stadium, (MRVL) Marvel Stadium, (MCG) Melbourne Cricket Ground, (MS) Metricon Stadium, (SCG) Sydney Cricket Ground, (OS) Optus Oval, (T) TIO Staduim, (UTS) University Of Tasmania Stadium.

Deon Dardha

Director / Auctioneer

Sales Agent / Auctioneer

Brooke McFarlane

Anna Grech

Senior Sales Consultant / Auctioneer

Licensed Estate Agent / Auctioneer

0425 718 411

0416 082 401

Adam Welling

Fernando Costa

Stephen Simmonds

Senior Sales Consultant / Auctioneer

0434 838 830

33 Ballarat Street, Yarraville 03 8387 0555 yarraville@hockingstuart.com

0413 664 133

0405 802 606

0438 446 051

12539558-HC13-22

Leo Dardha

0498 990 011

hockingstuart Wednesday, 30 March, 2022 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 23

12506298-AV44-21