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The Werribee RSL Sub-branch will host a series of Anzac Day-related events for the first time since COVID restrictions were introduced. Sub-branch president Daryl Ryan said“commemorative services are held to say thanks to “the men and the women and the dogs and the horses” that didn’t come home. “People have only got to look at the names that are on the Cenotaph, of all those from Werribee that died in the first world war from this community,” Mr Ryan said. “It’s because of their sacrifice and those in the second world war, that we live in the freedom that we’ve got today.” Mr Ryan invites residents to “come along and enjoy the camaraderie”. He said the sub-branch will host a pre-Anzac Day march along Watton Street, Werribee, on Sunday, April 24, starting at the cultural centre at 2pm and finishing at the Cenotaph. “On Anzac Day itself we have a dawn service commencing sharply at 6.30am. After the dawn service we have breakfast available in the community centre alongside the RSL,” he said. A sausage sizzle has been organised for 11am, and tours will be conducted throughout the afternoon. Werribee RSL Sub-branch president Daryl Ryan, and veteran Lyle Raison.

Tower troubles residents Wyndham council’s plans to grant a permit enabling the development and use of an Optus telecommunications facility in Hoppers Crossing has drawn opposition from residents. Located at 599 Sayers Road, the proposed site is on privately owned land and was one of multiple location options presented to council. A total of 30 objections were received, relating to the appearance of the tower, potential noise impacts, effects on the local

environment, and residents’ perceived negative health effects. At a planning meeting on April 12, ccouncillors heard from residents who voiced their concerns. Jaspreet Singh said he was against the construction of the tower and he uses WiFi to solve poor reception issues. “I don’t think there is any need for a mobile tower when everybody has their internet,” Mr Singh said. “They [Optus] can use another company’s

mobile tower, they can share with them as well.” Council officers stated in a report to councillors that there were no suitable co-location opportunities and existing facilities were “simply too far away” to achieve the required improvements. Other residents raised concerns about health impacts, despite confirmation from Optus that the tower complys with strict regulations that limit the exposure of the public to electromagnetic energy.

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A spokesperson for Optus said investing in new networks was for the “benefit of our customers”. “The health and safety of the community is our priority,” the spokesperon said. “The new tower in Hoppers Crossing will increase the quality of coverage and capacity for residents and businesses across Wyndham City Council.” Councillors voted to carry the motion and a Notice of Decision to Grant a Planning Permit will be issued.

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Call to ‘urgently’ fix footpaths A concerned resident has asked Wyndham council to urgently fix the uneven footpaths in Watton Street and Station Place. Geoff Smith wrote to council in March to bring attention to the “serious problem” which he says has caused pedestrians to trip and fall, including himself. “It came to my notice a few weeks ago when one of the residents in the village that we live in, badly injured his arms and his hands by falling over on the corner of Station Place and Watton Street,” Mr Smith said. “He was taken to the medical centre by two other people. He was heavily bandaged.” Mr Smith said it was after the incident

that he sent an email to all the councillors and the chief executive. “I’ve had three replies from the councillors, to say they’re aware of the problem and the other one said ‘we hope the guy gets better quickly’,” Mr Smith said. “If they had known … people have been having accidents or even being injured … I just hope that the council would get off their backside and confront this problem urgently and get it rectified before many more people are injured.” Wyndham council city operations director Stephen Thorpe said footpaths in the Werribee CBD are audited to detect safety issues on a

three month cycle. ‘Wyndham City is consistently working to fix any pavers that need replacing throughout our municipality,” Mr Thorpe said. “If any footpaths are identified as part of the audit cycle then they are earmarked for replacement.” Mr Thorpe said the affected areas are damaged by soil shifts, established trees and their root systems and impacts of utility infrastructure. Wyndham council said it was working with the relevant authorities to have the spots fixed to make roads and footpaths safe.

Injuries sustained by an elderly resident from tripping on uneven pavers in Watton Street Werribee. (Supplied)

Retail hub for Riverwalk A new town centre will be built in Riverwalk to support Wyndham’s growing population. The new centre is scheduled to be built as part of the Riverwalk residential development, located three kilometres from the Werribee town centre. Development Victoria’s Group Head, Property, Penny Forrest said the new centre would support the community and provide a much-needed retail hub for residents and visitors to Riverwalk. “With 2500 residents already calling Riverwalk home – this new town centre will benefit the whole community with a range of commercial and retail offerings,” Ms Forrest said. Ms Forrest said the site would also attract more visitors to the area. “It will also attract more people to the area – with the site conveniently located three

kilometers from the Werribee town centre. The site includes 1500 lots, a primary school, an early learning centre and two community parks which feature shelter, play equipment and barbeque facilities. The town centre was approved by Wyndham council in 2010 and will include a range of commercial and retail uses as well as a mix of townhouses. Ocean Group has been appointed to deliver the commercial aspects of the centre after the group purchased a three-hectare site. “The new Town Centre has been part of the Riverwalk vision for over a decade, and the sale of this site is an exciting milestone for the development,” Ms Forrest said. The commercial zoned land is anticipated to include a supermarket and a variety of other retail stores and services. Ariel views of the Riverwalk development.

(Supplied)

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4 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 20 April, 2022

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Dumped rubbish causes disgust A frustrated Wyndham resident whose property has become a dumping ground is asking locals to be more cautious about how they dispose of rubbish. A growing mound of junk fed by nearby builders and residents sits on the corner block in Emerald Park where Marryam Rana lives. “I’ve been at this property since I moved last year, we got one clean up because there was so much dumping going on and then after a couple of months, it started again,” Ms Rana said. “It started again as this house started getting built next door to us, and the builders have just transferred some dumping from their side to

Ms Rana said many people view her property as a “convenient place to dump”. (Supplied)

our side and that’s encouraging other people to do it as well now.”

Ms Rana said the pile is made up of kids toys and green waste, but contains much larger items too. “There’s like a microwave, a couch, a dishwasher, I’m just over it because it’s like new things every day.” It’s the first thing Ms Rana sees, and smells, when she gets home everyday. “I’m so disgusted by it, I don’t like to go there because it just irritates me everytime I see it. It’s very disappointing, i’m quite upset about it.” A call to council confirmed Ms Rana wasn’t the only resident in the municipality experiencing the same issue.

“They didn’t give me a timeframe, they said they’ll send someone but there’s a waiting list because there’s many other people with the same sort of situation,” she said. Ms Rana was told there was nothing that could be done to stop people from dumping on her property, but the resident hopes harsher penalties are introduced for people who dispose of their rubbish illegally. “Other people have get paid to get it removed when people don’t take responsibility, they don’t have to take care of it and they don’t have to pay the tip fee, it’s unfair,” Ms Rana said.

New river action plan The Werribee River Association launched its 10-year action plan at the Riverbend Historical Park last week. Developed in partnership between Traditional Owners, government and community organisations, The Lower Werribee River Amenity Action plan sets a strategic vision for cultural values, improved amenity and community access along the river. “The amenity and the natural landscape improvements articulated in the Lower Werribee River Amenity Action plan are designed to have a positive impact for not only plants and animals, and also for human health,” Werribee River Association’s community and business development manager Lisa Field said. “We also know, especially after the social restrictions of the pandemic, how important it is to spend time in nature.“ The improvements mentioned in the plan include lining gaps in the path network to

provide a continuous trail along the river, increasing river access points to support activities taken on and beside the water and improving open space facilities. There will also be new imperative and wayfinding signage to convey the heritage and stories of the river and increased vegetation and tree planting to enhance biodiversity. “We certainly want to see improvements to the riverine parkland and we encourage more people to get involved in supporting their local waterways,“ Ms Field said. The WRA invites residents to get involved in community projects. “Come join one of our 4 Litter Blitz groups, offering a community clean up each almost every weekend. Or check out one of 4 Landcare groups that is doing conservation work each month, as well as other special planting days,“ Ms Field said. Details: www.werribeeriver.org.au

Children took part in a smoking ceremony by Bunurong Traditional Owner Uncle Nick.

(Supplied)

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Wednesday, 20 April, 2022 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY 5

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New bus interchange Tarneit Station will be home to a new bus interchange that will allow for more frequent service, the state government has announced. The interchange will be built in the southern car park and better connect the local community to schools, shops and jobs. Commuters will also receive new parking, more bicycle parking, and lights and CCTV for increased security. Works on the car park will begin mid-2022 and construction on the new bus interchange will follow later this year.

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Judd, 4, and Charlie, 5, enjoy exploring ‘Our A-Maze-Ing Ocean’ at Pacific Werribee.

(Supplied)

Free school holiday fun Visitors at Pacific Werribee will be treated to a deep-sea adventure at the shopping centre these April school holidays. ‘Our A-Maze-Ing Ocean’ is the theme of the program, featuring themed rooms and an underwater inspired interactive maze. Children can jump across rocks to cross shark infested waters, climb through an anemone forest, play octopus ring toss, give a fish a home in the coral reef or snap a photo in the shark head. Pacific Werribee general manager Ryan Ling said the centre is pleased to share a free school holiday program that is both educational and entertaining. “Children love immersive experiences. We’re excited to bring to life this unique school holiday program giving children the opportunity to learn about the importance of

protecting our environment, whilst having a memorable time in centre,” Mr Ling said. “The ‘pop up’ augmented reality experiences scattered through the malls ensure families can enjoy learning more about the sea coral and underwater animals that inhabit our oceans.” Pacific Werribee hope children discover the importance of environmental sustainability via their ocean themed workshops. The activity zone was built using 100 per cent recyclable material in the hopes of inspiring and educating kids about the importance of caring for the planet’s delicate underwater environment. ‘Our A-Maze-Ing Ocean’ will run daily, from 10am-2pm until the April 24. Pacific Werribee is located on the corner of Heaths and Derrimut roads, Hoppers Crossing. Details: pacificwerribee.com.au

Residents in Wyndham going away during these school holidays are being urged to cover up as mosquitoes are still active this time of year. Mosquitoes carry a number of dangerous diseases including Japanese Encephalitis (JE) virus and Ross River virus. JE virus was detected in Victoria earlier this year and can potentially cause serious infection of the brain. People are being reminded to wear long, loose fitting clothes outdoors, use effective mosquito repellents containing picaridin or DEET on all exposed skin and use mosquito coils, which can be effective in small outdoor areas where you gather to sit or eat. Details: https://www.betterhealth. vic.gov.au/campaigns/beat-bite. FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Wyndham Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

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Playground upgrade welcomed Pupils at Thomas Chirnside Primary will have more space and choice for leisure now that works to the school’s senior playground are complete. Principal Bev Thompson said the updated play area extension was added to the existing unit installed in 2020. “The result is a large outdoor space to promote active play for our senior students,” Ms Thompson said. The new playground includes an inclined net bridge, scramble net, half offset balance disc walk, vertical hoop climber, double bump

and wave slide, squeeze pipes underneath, turn over bars, spider web climber, monkey bars and a fireman’s pole. Ms Thompson said the senior pupils were enjoying their new selection of play elements and the benefits on their physical health. “While fun in themselves they also provide important opportunities for normal growth and development of physical and social skills,” she said. “This new equipment includes access and exit points in various directions and are

designed to allow easy progression from one activity to another,” she said. The playground was funded by the state government, who allocated $66,120 for the project through the 2020 Minor Capital Works fund. Werribee MP Tim Pallas said the upgrades were about delivering small projects that make big differences, while also supporting local jobs. “We’re making sure that our schools have the best facilities, our classrooms have the best teachers and that every child is given every

chance to succeed,” he said. “Local families can now enjoy great new facilities at Thomas Chirnside Primary School.” The state government has invested $20 million to improve learning spaces and the condition and character of schools, and more than $10.9 billion in building new learning institutions to keep ahead of schedule in their commitment to opening 100 new schools before 2026.

CFA marks 80 years The Truganina Fire Brigade celebrated its 80th brigade dinner and awards evening to honour volunteers for their service. Typically held annually, the event was postponed because of COVID-19. “Two years ago was our 80th, but we couldn’t celebrate it then, so we celebrated our 80th dinner on our 82nd birthday,“ captain Mark Hatton said. Awards are given to firefighters based on the number of years they’ve served in the brigade. “We had a couple of 65 years’ service, we had a few five year ones as well and everything in between,“ Mr Hatton said. The work the volunteers do isn’t for recognition Mr Hatton said and their sole purpose is to help the community. “It’s good to be recognised, we will never complain about being recognised and thanked, however, it’s not what we do it for.“ Mr Hatton said the awards do “help morale“, but being able to get together and enjoy a social

dinner away from typical work conversations is also beneficial. “It’s good to let the hair down and have a chat for a few hours and see what’s going on in their life and how it’s all going.“ Mr Hatton encourages people of all professions and backgrounds to volunteer their time with the CFA. “The satisfaction you get helping your community, helping and working in the community that you live in, it’s the best part to me,“ Mr Hatton said. Fatima Halloum

Councillor Susan McIntyre, captain Mark Hatton and mayor Peter Maynard. (Supplied)

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Wednesday, 20 April, 2022 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY 7

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East Werribee is a key priority The activation of the East Werribee Precinct and the creation of local jobs and better transport connections are top of Wyndham council’s advocacy priorities ahead of the May 21 federal election. Mayor Peter Maynard said the council was calling on political parties to commit to investing in projects to support Wyndham’s growing population, particularly the East Werribee precinct. “Wyndham has the strongest growth in Melbourne, and we need to create a strong commercial hub in the heart of Wyndham,”

Cr Maynard said. “The federal government needs to invest in Wyndham to support existing community needs, absorb future population growth, and build a more prosperous, productive and sustainable Wyndham.” Council believes the precinct will create 60,000 jobs that are easily accessible for the community. “Activating East Werribee will help ease the congestion challenges for Melbourne, boost employment options closer to where people live, generate new industries and learning

opportunities, and deliver more health and community services for the western region,” Cr Maynard said. Other key projects council would like to see developed include a Wyndham Westlink to reduce congestion, support for employment programs that provide local jobs for local people and updated sports infrastructure to encourage residents to be more active more often. “These are all important investment priorities. We urge both major parties to commit to investing in Wyndham,” Cr

Maynard said. “Our residents did it tough through six lockdowns, and we need Federal Government funding to help in our recovery.” Council have also supported urgent calls for the establishment of a federal minister for growth areas. “Years of underestimating the population and potential of growth areas has created mounting economic, mental health and infrastructure issues in Australia’s fastestgrowing communities, including Wyndham,” Cr Maynard said.

Students remember All 1400 staff and students at Good News Lutheran College stood at the school’s poppy garden earlier this month to remember the lives lost in war. The college’s Anzac Day event included speeches from students, performances of the Australian and New Zealand national anthem and a moment of silence. Deputy principal Richard Baird said the commemorations were an important way to retell the story of “what went before us”. “The moment of silence and just how powerful it is to reflect and think of others because we’re so busy at times, concerned about ourselves,” Mr Baird said. The poppy garden was designed by a former student. “It was an opportunity that the college students had as part of their classes in design, and that was one of the designs that came up,” college pastor Peter Janetzki said. Mr Janetzki said that poppy’s are a mark

of respect for those who made “the ultimate sacrifice” for this country during times of war. “Poppy’s are used normally actually for remembrance day, but it’s also become increasingly something which is used on ANZAC day as well,” he said. Year eight student Mehak delivered a speech on the day. “On Anzac day we recognise the men and women who gave their lives …we recognise their courage and loyalty and mateship,” she said in the speech. Mr Janetski said Mehak’s remarks spoke of the links between religious and modern sacrifice. “People who sacrificed in times of war, and Jesus is the ultimate sacrifice, and the life that we have because of both,” he said. veteran Noel Goltz with students Zedriel, Milan, Mehak, Shreshta, Sandra, Naysa and Kathleen. (Damjan Janevski) 276112_01

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8 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 20 April, 2022

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Living with Parkinson’s disease By Molly Magennis and Tima Halloum The number of Victorians living with Parkinson’s disease, estimated to currently be 57,000, is rapidly increasing and neurological disorders are now the leading cause of disabilities worldwide. April is Parkinson’s Awareness Month and many organisations and health centres across the nation launched campaigns to increase the public’s understanding of symptoms and treatments available. ParKanDo is a support group in Melbourne’s west run solely by volunteers with a personal understanding of living with Parkinson’s. Their mission is to increase the number and diversity of support options for people living with the disease, connect members with people who understand the impacts of parkinsons and whilst allowing them to form valuable connections with each other. Pam West, ParKanDo co-leader and co-secretary, was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2009. She officially launched ParKanDo just before COVID alongside current members Peter Wall and his wife Carmel. With a background in project management and community development, Pam knew she wanted to do something that would help others going through the same thing she was. While her journey with Parkinson’s has certainly been tough, she said the gratification she gets from helping others is invaluable. “It’s given me a reason to get out and do something and the best high for me has been helping people, it’s a big part of my life,” she said. “Selfishly, as much as you give, you get back more and I’ve loved it. “I’ve gone through the lows … I was mourning what I thought my life would be at this age and I really struggled with that, and

ParKanDo members Mimi Morgan, Pam West, Peter Wall and Carmel Wall at a Fight Parkinson’s Peer Support Group. (Supplied) Top right: ParKanDo co-leader and co-secretary Pam West. (Damjan Janevski) 248483_01 Right: ParKanDo recently implemented a new program called ‘chair yoga’. Peter and Carmel Wall tried out the new program alongside yoga teacher Leanne Cannan. (Damjan Janevski) 268108_03

then through the help of a great psychologist and friends, particularly my kids have been amazing, I realised yes life was over as i knew it but there was nothing to stop me building a new life.” Mimi Morgan is also the current co-secretary of ParKanDo. She was diagnosed with early onset Parkinson’s in 2020, the same year her brother passed away from the same disease. Mimi joined parkando not long after her diagnosis, and said she would recommend support groups like ParKanDo to anyone suffering from a chronic disease.

She does acknowledge however that it can be a bit confronting seeing others with the same condition who are further along in their journey. “It’s great but it’s a bit confronting because you see people, when you’re in early stages, and you see people in later stages and you wonder if that’s gonna happen to you,” she said. “So I try not to think about that. I try to just concentrate on every day I get up [and] do what I can to fight Parkinson’s basically.” For Parkinson’s awareness month, Mimi said that she wants people to know that

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Parkinson’s is not just a movement disorder, and just because someone looks fine on the outside doesn’t mean they’re not struggling. “I think there should be more awareness that it’s quite a debilitating disease, but also I want people to have hope you know, like they’ll find a cure or find some better medication that lasts longer.” ParKanDo welcomes all new members, and the organisation constantly holds events and activities for those with Parkinsons, chronic diseases and seniors. For more information visit https:// parkando.org.au.

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Wednesday, 20 April, 2022 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY 9

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Police complex opens

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Werribee’s new $45 million police complex has officially opened and will allow officers to better serve residents in the municipality. Chief commissioner Shane Patton and Police Minister Lisa Neville attended the formalities which included a smoking ceremony hosted by Bunurong Elder uncle Shane Clark, presentation of the flags, blessing of the station and an unveiling of the plaque. Werribee MP Tim Pallas said the complex provides officers with the modern facilities needed to keep the community safe. “Local police have always been outstanding members of police, they’re here without question and often at the most complex and difficult times,” he said. “Police have been there every step of the way.” The previous station was built in the later 1980s and has since outgrown Wyndham’s booming population. The new facility is the only 24-hour complex in Wyndham and can accommodate up to 500 staff from several specialist areas including uniform officers, crime investigation unit, westgate divisional response unit and the crime scene unit. It includes a custody and control centre, interview rooms, a dedicated area for the Justice of the Peace, a public meeting room, conference facilities, Crime Scene Unit labs, a dedicated operations room, and a vehicle examination bay. The police station will provide services for residents in Williams Landing, Truganina, Tarneit, Wyndham Vale, Manor Lakes, Werribee, Werribee South, Little River, Hoppers Crossing, Point Cook and Laverton North.

Above: Mayor Peter Maynard, Chief Commissioner Shane Patton and Cr Susan McIntyre. Left: Inspector Darren Bentley and Bunurong Elder Uncle Shane Clarke participating in a smoking ceremony. (Pictures: Supplied)

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10 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 20 April, 2022

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Simone and Bill Moragiannis from Honey Dee Loukoumades. (Supplied)

WYNDHAM BUSINESS AWARDS

These Greek donuts were good enough for ancient Olympians, so give them a try! (Supplied)

Going nuts over Greek donuts By Elle Cecil As a family-owned and operated business, Honey Dee Loukoumades is driven by customer satisfaction and a love for sharing its delicious products all around Victoria. Run by Bill and Simone Moragiannis, Honey Dee makes and sells Greek donuts – traditional ‘loukoumades’ – based on a special family recipe. Bill and Simone have entered Honey Dee in the food and hospitality category at this year’s Wyndham Business Awards. The awards celebrates business entrepreneurs, innovators and hardworking operators and highlight achievements of leading Wyndham businesses across key industry sectors.

Having been trading for seven years, Bill and Simone operate Honey Dee Loukoumades out of their marquee or their food truck, which is a mini bus resembling an iconic Melbourne tram. Whether they attend markets, events or extend catering services for corporate, private and wedding functions, Simone and Bill love receiving great reviews, while customer feedback keeps them focused and inspired. With the first official record of loukoumades occurring in 776BC, ‘honey tokens’ or fried balls of golden dough covered in honey were given to the victors of the original Olympic Games. “We remain innovative by constantly developing unique and contemporary flavours to suit themed events or festivals,” Bill says.

“We are a small business sharing our passion for food to as many people as possible.” Honey Dee’s loukoumades are egg-free, dairy-free and have a variety of vegan toppings available. Homemade salted caramel, strawberry jam, Kinder Bueno, lemon curd and chocolate hazelnut are just a few of the flavours available to choose from at Honey Dee Loukoumades. Employing local staff, Simone and Bill also love to see their team members grow as not only employees, but people as well. Many of the staff at Honey Dee Loukoumades have struggled with self-confidence and feeling anxious among other things, but Bill and Simone have seen them flourish and become even better versions of themselves. “We have a staff member that helps us with

wholesaling – he has autism and it was rare for him to make eye contact with us,” Simone explains. “He is now very confident and has also helped us at catering events by serving customers.” Honey Dee Loukoumades is located at 47/22 Wallace Avenue, Point Cook. For more information, email info@ honeydee.com.au or visit www.honeydee.com. au. Wyndham Business Awards entries close on Friday, June 3 for the category awards and Friday, June 17 for the People’s Choice Awards. To enter or nominate a business for an award, visit: www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/ businessawards.

Wednesday, 20 April, 2022 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY 11

BEHIND THE NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Film maker dials up the horror For any independent filmmaker, getting a film off the ground is hard work, and an immense amount of passion for the craft is needed to continue on the long road ahead. But for David Willing, that possibility became a reality when his horror film ‘Surrogate’ premiered at the Sun Theatre earlier this month. Molly Magennis spoke to the writer/director about his passion for film and making his feature directorial debut.

eddon resident David Willing fell in love with cinema when he was five years old. When he was 12, he picked up a video camera and started making films around his house. He eventually headed off to film school, where he learned the intricacies of how to write scripts and piece together a film. “[My] love of cinema grew and grew and I started to learn how to write and direct films,” David said. “Then, over the years, my adult life has just been making, well since film school, short films and documentaries. I’ve written I think about 11 feature films, but this was the first one that actually we managed to find the finance for to make happen.” While horror was a genre that David particularly enjoyed growing up, his work prior to Surrogate mainly consisted of writing crime/thriller scripts, documentaries and a comedy short. “It sort of came full circle that my first feature was a horror film because I had loved that genre so much growing up,” he said. George A. Romero, a pioneer of the horror genre who is often referred to as the ‘godfather of zombies’, is cited by David as having a significant influence on him from a horror standpoint. He was lucky enough to meet the acclaimed director six years ago at the Melbourne International Film Festival. “Dawn of the Dead I saw when I was 12, it just blew me away,” he said.

Director/writer David Willing behind the camera. (Supplied)

“I gave [George] a copy of one of my short films I’d made at the time and just had a brief chat with him in the cinema and he signed one of his books for me.” In terms of particularly impactful films,

Silence of the Lambs (1991) and David Fincher’s masterpiece Seven (1995) were ‘pivotal’ for the young filmmaker, with the latter having a special influence on Surrogate. “It’s one of the films that I watch, you know,

once a year I revisit it, it just gets better each time and the influence of that shows a little bit in Surrogate, not a lot, but there’s a few moments that are clearly inspired by the design of the film.”

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12 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 20 April, 2022

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BEHIND THE NEWS

‘‘

Honest to goodness, someone actually did pass out ... there’s a particularly notorious scene that they got up to leave and she passed out

’’

- David Willing

Behind the scenes of Surrogate. Ellie Stewart (let) plays Ava Akard and Kestie Morassi (right) plays mother Natalie Paxton.

David describes Surrogate as an ‘intense, paranormal horror’ centred around a single mother named Natalie Paxton who falls mysteriously ill and struggles to save her family from being destroyed. “When she returns home [from hospital], just all these really, you know, crazy, intense and full-on things start happening to her and her daughter, and then she needs to solve that problem,” he said. The film is the result of a brainstorming session he had with his co-writer Beth King back in 2016, where the pair came up with eight story ideas, with one immediately standing out. They spent two years writing and rewriting the story, coming up with five different endings in the process, before officially shooting the film in 2020. Kestie Morassi, best known for her role in the iconic Australian horror Wolf Creek (2005) and as Maggie in Home and Away, was cast to play Natalie, alongside Jane Badler (Mission Impossible) and Louise Siverson (Prisoner).

David said Morassi was looking to star in another horror film around the time she finished up on Home and Away. She had been offered a lot of horror scripts following Wolf Creek, but none had grabbed her attention, that was until she read Surrogate. “What’s interesting with her role is that she’s in almost every scene of the film…so [we] just kind of needed to see that she’d be right for the character,” he said. “But then she sent me a tape of one thing in particular, and just was like, oh wow, she’s going to be perfect for the role, and yeah, it’s quite an incredible performance.” While the rest of the cast and crew is made up of over one hundred talented creatives, Surrogate does have a particularly local flavour, with many of those involved based in the west. Renee Schulz, David’s housemate, was behind the film’s gruesome makeup, the chilling soundtrack was composed by Footscray resident Mark Buys, cinematographer Ben

(Pictures: Supplied)

Luck resides in Sydenham and Producer Haris Fazlic’s studio is based in Sunshine. “The other [person who] was just incredible was our production designer Bianca because art departments feel the lower budget more than anyone because, you know, they have to dress certain sets and do certain things, and her work is extraordinary on [the film], it looks beautiful,” David said. Surrogate had its world premiere at the Sun Theatre in Yarraville on Wednesday April 6, followed by a Q&A with Jane Badler and Kestie Morassi. David said the response to the film has been really positive so far, with some audience members getting more than they bargained for. “Everyone’s just found it quite intense and [they’re] gripped as they’re watching it,” he said. “We actually had at our premiere, honest to goodness, someone actually did pass out….. there’s a particularly notorious scene that they got up to leave and she passed out.

“I said to the makeup artist who did the special effects, that’s the best compliment you’re ever gonna get for your work.” The film’s swift success was equally as clear when David was told it was the Sun Theatre’s number one film for two weeks, and that it outsold new releases The Batman and Morbius just last week. “I would say a lot of indie filmmakers would kill to get what we’ve got, you know, part of that has just come through that real hard work and tenacity,” David said. There are still plenty of opportunities for horror fans and movie lovers to see Surrogate on the big screen, with the Thornbury Picture house holding screenings on April 20, and the Sun Theatre hosting three more sessions over the school holidays with dates yet to be announced. For sessions times and more information visit https://suntheatre.com.au/wp-cinema/ movie/S21SURROGATE/SURROGATE/ or https://www.surrogatefilm.com/

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Wednesday, 20 April, 2022 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY 13

NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

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

30 years ago

20 years ago

10 years ago

April 14 1982

April 8 1992

April 10 2002

April 11, 2012

A historic part of Werribee – now a section of a new housing estate – is to be preserved as a riverside picnic park by the estate developer.

Most people think of Werribee as the city centre, Hoppers Crossing, Laverton and Wyndhamvale but in fact, Werribee is a city of 20 suburbs, an issue finalised by the council last week.

Campbells Cove boatshed owners will fight the Wyndham Council if it pursues a plan to make them licensees.

Residents without access to broadband internet have welcomed confirmation that Tarneit and Wyndham Vale are included in the next rollout of the National Broadband Network, but say they should be connected before 2015.

12544962-AV15-22

40 years ago

14 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 20 April, 2022

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

COMMENT

Support wild gorillas in APE-ril Victorians are being asked to ‘dial up’ their support for the conservation of wild gorillas, by donating 1000 mobile phones this APE-ril. The drive by Zoos Victoria aims to recycle 1000 phones containing the metallic mineral ‘çoltan’, reducing mining in habitat shared by gorillas, while also raising funds for life-saving medical care of fragile, wild gorilla populations in Africa. Zoos Victoria conservationist and reproductive biologist Dr Marissa Parrott said recycling 1000 phones will provide enormous support for Gorilla Doctors, the only organisation in the world dedicated to saving Endangered Mountain gorillas and Critically Endangered Eastern lowland gorillas through veterinary medicine and science. “By simply donating your old mobile phones, you can make such a difference to the future of gorilla species,” Dr Parrott said. Gorilla Doctors Field Veterinarian Dr Noheli Jean Bosco said Gorilla Doctors conservation work has contributed to the restoration of 50 per cent of the current Mountain gorilla’s wild population. “In the 1980s, these Gorillas were at the brink of extinction. So, together with others, we have started to restore the number of wild gorillas,” he said. “But we are not able to succeed alone. This is achieved through the work everyone is doing together with us all around the world. Thank you to the people of Australia who have accepted this call and are recycling their phones through this initiative.”

Western Lowland Gorilla in afternoon sunlight. (Supplied)

Anyone can collect and donate 10 mobile phones at a time by booking a free courier through Zoos Victoria’s website, and will go into a draw to win an exclusive behind-the-scenes experience for four people at Werribee Open Range Zoo. The experience includes a tour of the Zoo’s plantations to learn about what gorillas eat and how they are cared for by keepers, as well as an accommodation voucher for an overnight stay at the Holiday Inn in Werribee.

There are four sub-species of gorillas that are native to Africa. All are impacted by illegal poaching and habitat destruction from logging and mining, with conservation work of critical importance. Melbourne Zoo and Werribee Open Range Zoo are home to seven Western lowland Gorillas, who form part of an international and regional breeding program to maintain a genetically diverse troop that can support conservation of gorilla populations.

For more information about Zoos Victoria’s They’re Calling On You initiative, visit www.zoo.org.au/phone Zoos Victoria members and Werribee Open Range Zoo visitors are reminded that all tickets must be pre-booked online at zoo.org.au and all ticket holders 18 years and over are required to provide proof of full vaccination and follow current Victorian Government directions at www.coronavirus. vic.gov.au.

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COMMUNITY STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

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

Pre-Anzac day March Werribee RSL will be holding its pre-Anzac Day March on April 24. Assemble at 2pm at the corner of Wedge Street and Watton Street, The form up will be at 2.20pm, step off at 2.30pm. ■ Kylie, 9741 5525

ANZAC Day event Werribee RSL’s ANZAC Day event will be held on April 25 from 6.30am at Werribee Cenotaph, then back to the Kelly Park Hall for a Gun Fire Breakfast, gold coin Donation. ■ Kylie, 9741 5525

Western Budgerigar Club The Western Suburbs Budgerigar Club meets at 7:30pm on the third Thursday of each month at Masonic Hall, 223 Watton Street, Werribee. Meet other members who are also passionate about breeding Budgerigars. ■ Don, 0414 975 862

Lumen Christi Catholic Primary School, students reinacted the Stations of the Cross in the lead up to Easter. Pictured are Sebastian as Jesus with Bianca and Joshua. (Damjan Janevski) 276332_01

Wyndham Ladies Probus Are you recently retired or semi-retired? Looking for fun, fellowship and to increase your social networks. The Ladies Probus Club of Wyndham meets on the first Wednesday of each month at Hotel520, Sayers Road, Tarneit, and normally has an outing or event on the third Wednesday of each month. ■ Rosa Sanderson, 0410 303 046

U3A Werribee U3A Werribee Region is a not-for-profit organisation consisting of semi-retired and retired residents of Wyndham. It conducts a variety of weekly classes run by volunteers. ■ Rick, 0402 299 220

AL-ANON meets AL-ANON provides support for families and loved ones living with alcoholics and problem drinkers. The group meets Mondays at St Thomas Anglican Church foyer, 117 Synnot Street, Werribee.

Centre! Using a section of materials, including recycled paper and cardboard as well as coloured paper, children will construct a face mask of their choice. Children will be using glue and cutting paper with scissors to create a mask that can be either worn or used as a piece of art for your wall. The workshop will be held on Tuesday, April 19 from 1-2.30pm. Bookings essential. Cost: $5. ■ www.maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/Events

AeroSpeakers Toastmasters Club Musicians wanted Sunshine Community Brass is looking for new members to join its vibrant band of musicians. With over 90 years of history, the band is looking to grow for the future. Sunshine Community Brass is currently looking for trumpet and percussion players. It rehearses Tuesdays from 7:30pm, 45 Furlong Road, North Sunshine. ■ Andrew Wilson, 0419 444 620

Would you like to develop confidence in communicating, competence with language and clarity in writing? AeroSpeakers Toastmasters Club would like to invite any and all residents to join them on the first and third Thursday of every month to help develop public speaking, communication and leadership skills. The group meets at the Laverton Community Hub, 95-105 Railway Avenue, Laverton from 7.00-9.30pm. ■ Vince Camilleri, 0413 734 707

Confident Living for Seniors

sale is held at Williamstown library in the Friends room, which can be accessed through the front desk.The event is cash only. For more info please see Hobsons Bay library website.

Hobsons Bay Garden Club The Hobsons Bay Garden Club is looking for new members. All new members who are keen gardeners and looking to make new friendships are welcome to join. 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, 0411 793 534 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

Community Lunch and morning tea

All Aboard Club

Altona book sale

Walking group

The All Aboard Club has been going for 85 years. It is a social club which works for charities, with speakers, theatre and trips. It meets in the chambers at Williamstown Town Hall at 1.30pm on the first and third Tuesday of the month. New members welcome. ■ Wendy, 0421 747 040

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, 10am-1pm. ■ https://libraries.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/ community/friends-of-the-libraries

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-Meadows-and-NewportHeart-Foundation-Walking-Groups

Williamstown book sale Mask making workshop Children are invited to come along and make a mask at the Marobomg Community 16 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 20 April, 2022

Friends of Williamstown Library holds a book sale every second Saturday of each month from 10-12.30 pm. The book

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

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

Musicians welcome Women’s Choir

Join Victoria Police in this presentation for seniors, presented by Leading Senior Constable Derek Jenkins. Topics will include the media, home safety, driver safety, scams and mental health. Light morning tea will be provided. The talk will be held on April 28 at 10.15am at the Maribyrnong Community Centre. RSVP by April 22. ■ https://www.trybooking.com/BYFWR, 9032 4305, or maricomm@maribyrnong.vic.gov.au

The Holy Trinity Anglican Church in Williamstown will be holding a free community morning tea and lunch every Friday at the Parish Centre on Nelson Place. The morning tea starts from 10am. Tea and coffee will be served, alongside a variety of fun activities like knitting, board games and puzzles. The lunch will run from noon-1pm, with takeaway options available. Check-in and vaccination status are required.

Williamstown Craft Market

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 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

The Altona North combined probus club meets on the fourth Wednesday of each month at Altona Sports Club. Includes a speaker, organised trips and outings, and a friendly atmosphere. ■ Lesley, 0414 481 442

Rotary club 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

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

PUZZLES No. 077

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.

ACROSS

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

9 4 3 4 5 8 2 3 9 2

1 9 2 1 5 6 8

5 10 11 12 13 14 15 18 20 21 24 27 28 29 30

No. 077

DOWN

Plant of the genus that includes cabbage (8) Opposite of an acid (6) Bush (5) Social exclusion (9) Playing cards (6) Buoyant support (7) Native American tribe (8) A small nation on the island of Borneo (6) Loathing (6) Danger (8) Begins again (7) Reddish-brown (6) Books of memoranda (9) Employing (5) Cerumen (6) Inscriptions (8)

easy

QUICK CROSSWORD

Outback (4) Consensus (9) Sword (US spelling) (5) Monastic establishment (8) Tyro (7) Type of acid (5) Largeness (9) Over (4) Integration of elements (9) Oslo resident (9) US state (8) West African nation; capital Windhoek (7) Lecher (5) Cease (4) Polecat (5) Roe (4)

1 2 3 4 6 7 8 9 14 16 17 19 22 23 25 26

DECODER

No. 077

8 4 2 3 4 5

3 hard

7 1 3 6 9 8

7 2

10 11 12 13

P M 23

1 4 7 6 5 3 9 2 8

6 2 1 7 3 5 9 4 8

8 3 9 2 1 4 7 6 5

4 7 5 8 6 9 2 1 3

1 5 8 6 4 2 3 9 7

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

5 LETTERS ADAGE ADDER ADEPT ADORE

No. 077

6 LETTERS ABLEST EBOOKS ESTEEM SCARED

OMEGA OMENS ORATE OVERT OXIDE PINES RETRO ROLES SATIN SCALE SCOPE SEETO SLEEK SPEND STAGE STEPS STONE STOPS TAKEN TAMPA THANK TIMES TWEED

8 LETTERS DEBONAIR POSTCARD REDOLENT TOLERANT

7 LETTERS AKIHITO BANSHEE EDUCATE ERASURE MAGENTA RANKING

22-04-22

No. 077 Insert the missing letters to make 10 words – five reading across the grid and five reading down.

QUICK QUIZ

What is the name of Radiohead’s fourth album, released in 2000?

What are stratus clouds called when they contact the ground?

Which organisation sent a letter to the band Pet Shop Boys requesting that they change their name to 'Rescue Shelter Boys'?

NOTE: more than one solution may be possible

S T

Raspeball, vareniki and khinkali are all types of what? Philip Seymour Hoffman’s (pictured) first professional acting role was in a 1991 episode of which TV series? In which Australian state is the Moore River located?

V E R T

A L A D L I V E I N E N

S O L

7 9 4 3 8 1 6 5 2

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

4 LETTERS ATOM ATOP BASS BEDS ERIN IRON KEEL LARS MESS NESS NINE TENS TEST TYRE

font, forint, fort, forth, FORTNIGHT, frog, front, froth, frothing, giro, goth, hong, horn, hotting, ingot, into, iron, noir, north, riot, rotting, thong, thorn, throng, tong, tonight, torn, tort, toting, trio, triton, trot, troth

3 6 2 9 5 7 1 8 4

2 4 7 6 3 5 1 8 9

5 8 6 1 2 3 4 7 9

2 1 7 4 9 8 5 3 6

6 9 1 8 2 7 4 3 5

7 3 5 1 6 2 9 4 8

4 6 9 3 5 8 2 1 7

N S

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”.

9 3 2 4 8 7 6 5 1

5 6 8 1 9 2 7 3 4

8 2 3 5 7 4 1 9 6

1 8 2 9 7 4 5 6 3

5 2 6 7 4 3 8 9 1

9 1 3 2 8 6 7 5 4

9-LETTER WORD

33 words: Excellent

ARGOT AWARE BOARD BUCKS CIDER CIVIC DREGS DROOP ELATE ENDED ENEMA ENTER ERASE ERROL HOMES IDEAS KATIE KEEPS LANKY LILAC MAINE MELON MIAMI

N T D I H A X V U Z G K L

6 7 9 8 3 1 2 4 5

4 1 5 2 6 9 8 7 3

3 5 1 7 2 6 4 8 9

2 8 4 9 1 5 3 6 7

7 9 6 3 4 8 5 1 2

8 7 4 5 9 1 3 2 6

Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

medium

easy

2 1 6 8 3

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

hard

5x5

9 7 8 9

S E O J Q Y RWF C B PM

8 7

3 LETTERS ECO EEL EMU ERA ERR GOA HAW INC ISH KEG LAS LAW NEO ODD ODE PER PIG PRO PSI RAP REM TEL TWO WAX

WORDFIT

On May 6 of which year did the German rigid airship Hindenburg catch fire, killing 36 people?

Palaeography is the study of what?

In which year was Helvetica, the sans-serif typeface, developed by Max Miedinger: a) 1932 b) 1945 or c) 1957?

10 What was the only movie to be screened at the very first Cannes Film Festival? ANSWERS: 1. Kid A 2. Fog 3. People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) 4. Dumplings 5. Law & Order 6. Western Australia 7. 1937 8. Handwriting 9. c) 1957 10. The Hunchback of Notre Dame

SUDOKU

Wednesday, 20 April, 2022 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY 17

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Kitchens & Bathroom Renovations · Plumbing · Tiling · Electrical · Carpentry · Plastering · One stop shop - Kitchen, bathroom, laundries & renovation needs. · Complete service from start to ﬁnish, including kitchen 3D design. · Appliance packages available. · Bathroom tapware, accessories & tiles on display in our showroom.

servic s of specialised property Very diverse in all aspect ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀

621 Andrew 0425 852

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Services • Repairs • Maintenance Over 30 years experience, All types of Air Con, Evap Cooler & Gas Heating System AU31693

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STONE BENCHTOPS Overlay Over Your Existing Benchtops With Stone. Change The Look Of Your Kitchen In A Day! Call for a free quote 0425 825 504 www.dsstonebenchtops.com.au

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networkclassifieds.com.au Wednesday, 20 April, 2022 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY 19

SPORT STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Students at the Maribyrnong Sports Academy.

(Pictures: Supplied)

Supporting sporting stars of the future By Tara Murray Behind the walls at Maribyrnong Sports Academy there is a hive of activity as students start their sporting careers. On this particular night, the school’s female football players were being put through their paces. Many of them still new to the sport were learning kicking techniques and how to kick on their opposite foot. In other locations around the school, coaches and their students were doing activities to help grow their games. Head of the school’s AFL program Robbie Chancellor said the programs run within the academy are about giving students the best opportunity to succeed in their sporting dreams. Having been part of the AFL system before, he has seen what works at the top level. “It’s a massive head start for these guys,” said Chancellor as he was keeping his eye on his charges. “Professionalism is nearly the biggest thing you get from this. It’s a holistic program, you’ve got sport psychs, dietitians and a fantastic high performance program to teach them how to prepare their bodies physically and how to recover. “Combined as a program there isn’t much out there like this.” The academy has come a long way since it started in 2007. With enrolments struggling at Maribyrnong College it was decided to turn the school into a specialist school of some sort. It would become a sports academy. Director Mark McAllion, sitting in his office which is filled with sports memorabilia from past students, said it had taken time for interest in the academy to grow. “At the time the school was dying for a better term,” he said. “School enrolments for the following year were really really low, so it was decided to be a specialist school of some description, then set it on sport. “The first intake was 2007, but trying to attract kids into a specialist sports school with no facilities was actually quite hard. “My predecessors would visit presentation nights, do club visits and all things trying to promote the place and build it up from there. “There’s now 575 student athletes in the academy out of 1300 kids in the whole school.” 20 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 20 April, 2022

The program is funded by the state government and is the only school in Victoria that gets that funding. There are 100 spots in each year level, with spots only opening up when students leave the school. As many as 400 students apply each year. Students travel from as far as Craigieburn, Bundoora, Woodend, Werribee, while others relocate to live nearby. McAllion said students are put through tests before they select who will come to the school. “The kids go through some physical testing, some trials with the coaches,” he said. “Then basically a list gets put together of the 100 kids with the most potential to become serious athletes down the track. “It might mean we pick the little kids that haven’t developed yet, but the coaches and staff say they might have attributes that will be really good.” Supporting the students are about 70 staff members ranging from coaches, teachers, rehabilitation, sports psychologists, physiotherapists. Most of the coaches have backgrounds in coaching or playing at high levels themselves, with seven Olympians on staff. “We have footy, athletics, cricket, badminton, basketball, golf hockey, netball, soccer, taekwondo, tennis, volleyball, baseball, judo that we actually provide coaching in that coaching happens before,” he said. “If you’re in a sport we don’t offer coaching… They are what we call associate athletes, they still get the benefits of the program with coaching externally. While the coaching happens outside hours, the sport component is a major part of the students daily study with the High Performance Preparation [HPP] program. It’s timetabled into the students’ school calendar, with a varying number of classes depending on what year they are in. The HPP isn’t just about performance, it’s about teaching them how to handle the whole sporting career. Head of strength and conditioning Calvin Pane said while every student will complete similar programs, they individualise the programs as much as they can to best suit the students needs. On this particular Wednesday, some of the older students are going through their paces. Some are squatting, some are doing strength work and others rehab.

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SPORT

Lucas Plapp is the first Olympic Medalist from the Maribyrnong Sports Academy. (Supplied)

Striving for success

Nathan Pellissier went to Maribyrnong Sports Academy. (Supplied)

“In year seven and eight and middle school it’s a bit more curriculum based and movement competency,” Pane said. “If they’re squatting they’re learning how to squat, they’re learning how to set up. The safety features of it. “It gets built out to a different movement over time and we load the exercise accordingly, as they get older. “There’s literally a heap of exercises we work through all the year levels, we progress them out. “Students who are in year 11 or such, have a little bit more structured stuff. “They have some more personal development stuff. Taping techniques for an ankle or shoulder or they might do a first aid course, different things help them in the sport and potentially on the way out.” The students also have education sessions regularly, while they have access to all the professionals they need. There’s strength and conditioning coaches, athlete wellbeing coordinators, performance psychologists, dietitians, physios and rehab coordinators. Pane said they wanted to set up the students for success if they make it to the higher level. “We have tertiary trained staff with experience in elite environments or environments like here,” he said. “We are prepping them for when they walk out to the Melbourne Vixens, Melbourne Demons or whoever it is.. “So when they go into that environment, there not being held back by their staff as they can’t do a,b, c.” The strength and conditioning staff work closely with the coaches like Chancellor whether it’s setting up plans or working with particular athletes. Chancellor, who is also the head coach at the Western Jets, said the football program was tailored to the development of the students involved. “For young girls, training is focused much more on the fundamentals and the skill

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We are prepping them for when they walk out to the Melbourne Vixens, Melbourne Demons or whoever it is - Calvin Pane

’’

development,” he said. “As the kids get older and progress to different pathway systems, it becomes how do we apply those skills to the different situations we find ourselves in during the game. “There’s a broad scope of what we teach from kicking techniques, ground ball techniques, to running patterns and body positions. “It encompasses all the different aspects of the game depending on where they are in their development.” There’s four different coaching sessions a week, a mixture of after and before school. During the NAB League season, many of the older students aren’t involved in the academy as they would be in the off season. Chancellor said his dual role meant that he understands much of what is happening outside the academy and how to manage loads. “Ultimately it’s whatever is best for them,” he said. “Fortunately with my position at the Jets, and most of them are Jets girls and same with the boys, it makes it easier for me to have an understanding of how much they are doing and what is too much. “I’ve got really good relationships with the Calder Cannons and Northern Knights coaches as well their kids that they have in the program here. We make sure we communicate with them so we’re teaching them the right stuff, and they’re not doing too much. “It allows us to make sessions and education here a bit more specific as we know them much better as players.” Monqiue Conti, Luke Plapp, Peter Wright, Libby Birch and Nathan Pellissier are some of

the success stories of the academy. For every success story there’s many who weren’t able to reach their sporting dreams. McAllion said they made a big focus of that and setting up other pathways if they don’t reach the level they wanted. While there is a massive high performance focus, students can continue their scholarship as long as they are meeting the demands. “We try and work through with kids, but it’s a really tough and interesting conversation when, if the student still has the dream alive in their mind and we don’t think they’re going to make it,” McAllion said. “What point do you have that discussion with a teeanger. We certainly have things in place in a variety of our programs, for example all the kids in the hockey program did coaching qualifications… they might get umpires or coaching qualifications. “We have worked with Victoria University and tertiary pathways and career pathways and all that stuff, we know they are very sport minded. “There are other pathways, within sport, we work with kids in that, We don’t want to limit their dreams if they still want to have a crack. “We could be producing the next club president of the local cricket and footy club. It’s still a major contribution to sport and I think that is still great. While the school is a successful one, there still plenty more to do. This year they’ve got their first wheelchair athlete in Sunbury tennis player Jin Woodman and the academy is growing a partnership with the Paralympics Australia. The school has started data analyzing more in depth to help better understand their students. McAllion said the motto is continuous improvement which they are focused on. Back on the football field, the girls continue to work through their drills. With the game growing, it’s quite possible that one of the next AFLW stars is among them. It shows exactly what the school is all about.

For Damien Bozinovski and Charlotte Morey, Maribyrnong Sports Academy was where they wanted to do their schooling. Like many others they applied to the academy, as they wanted to focus not only on their education, but their schooling dreams. Damien, who is part of Melbourne Victory’s youth set up, is following in the footsteps of his brothers. “Both my brothers went here,” he said during one of his gym sessions. “They were both older than me and got into the sports academy and I thought I may as well come here and have a go and I got in. “It’s a really good program that is aimed to help you individually, but there’s a team environment as well. “It includes all the strength training, plyometrics training and even outside technical training. “It’s a good school as well.” Charlotte is a budding netballer who is part of the Victorian state under-17 team for the upcoming national championships. Ever since hearing about the academy as a junior, the Point Cook resident decided this was where she wanted to study. “The old coach here at the school was my under-11s rep coach, she kind of told us about it and then I trialled,” she said. “I was pretty excited when I found out about it. It was the only school I was looking at.” Charlotte said while she had benefited on the court from the academy, it was a lot of the other stuff which had been most important. “I’ve definitely benefited from the gym as well, the injury prevention and things like that. With my sport, knees and ankles are pretty common to injure so it has helped me with that. “It’s really cool to get a different coach and a different perspective of how you play and you get to link up with other people.” Both admit at times it can be pretty full on with training, study and travelling to the school, but it’s worth it in the long run. Charlotte said the car is often her desk as she goes from one commitment to the next. While both are focused on their home work, it’s clear that sport is where their interests lay. “At the moment I’m playing for the Geelong Cougars in the VNL [Victorian Netball League], I’m in the 17 and under state team and I play locally at South Barwon,” Charlotte said. “I’d love to play for the Melbourne Vixens, but right now focused on performing well at nationals, hopefully in the VNL and getting up a couple of age groups. For Damien, who lives in Taylors Lakes, “right now by the end of the year the 23s, the senior team and I want to keep pushing with the help of the program.” Tara Murray Wednesday, 20 April, 2022 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY 21

Young golfer Louise Baliton swinging for glory Who would’ve known that a little seven-year-old girl, following her father around a golf practice area would lead to a blossoming golf career? For Louise Baliton those moments on the practice area would see her fall in love with the sport. “I would follow dad around the practice area at Mt Derrimut Golf Community Club and have a shot or two every now and then,” she recalls. “Dad asked if I would like to learn and so when I was seven, I attended some golf clinics and I fell in love with the game.” Baliton began playing in tournaments when she was nine-years-old, winning the first she one she entered. The win encouraged her to continue playing and she was soon rising up the golf rankings. In 2019 she was the recipient of a Victorian School Sports award “Sporting Blue” for golf and last year she won the girls Victorian Junior Masters. She also won back-to-back ladies championships at her home golf club. In 2021, Baliton was awarded the Golf Victoria Future Champions Trophy and placed

second in the girls Victorian Junior Open. Baliton is a member of The Heritage Golf and Country Club women’s team that competes at the best sandbelt courses in Victoria. “My current Golf Australia handicap is 1.4,” she says quietly, with pride. “My training schedule with Maribyrnong Sports Academy involves technical training every Tuesday and Wednesday afternoon between 3.30-7pm at Medway Golf Club. “Following our warmup, we follow an individual program developed in consultation with our coaches. “It may be as simple as playing nine holes with a focus on course management. “At school I have a gym program to complete on Monday and Thursday. It involves resistance training to strengthen my golf swing and core.” Baliton sees her strengths in her short game with chipping and putting making the difference in her game. Her favourite player is Lydia Ko, who she modelled her swing on, until Ko changed her game.

Baliton is currently in Adelaide playing back-to-back tournaments. It means golf during the day and hitting the books during the evenings. Baliton is looking at what is required to enter the American College system on a golf scholarship. “It would be an amazing experience. It is my dream to play on those courses. I will need to achieve a very high ATAR to gain college entry.” Baliton is the April nominee for the Don Deeble Sports Star 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 The Star Weekly Newspapers. If you would like to nominate a monthly winner or attend a dinner, contact swrsportsclub@gmail.com or 0408 556 631. Peter Howe

Falcons back on track

Louise Baliton is this month’s Don Deeble nominee. (Supplied)

Sports briefs WRFL

It wasn’t pretty but the City West Falcons did enough to come away with the points against Peninsula Waves in the Victorian Netball League championship division on Wednesday night. Coming off a disappointing loss the week before, the Falcons were able to build the lead throughout, winning 58-49. Falcons coach Marg Lind said it wasn’t the prettiest game, but they were happy to get the points. It was the side’s second win of the season. “With the group at the moment, that’s the main thing,” she said. “We’re still working on the communication with the group at the moment and getting that going. “We were able to build the lead in increments, but we did plateau a bit in the second half.” Lind said there was a little bit of unknown for both sides with Netball Victoria either holding our players or putting them on restrictions ahead of the state championships. It meant that defender Mel Oloamanu missed a third straight game, while other players through their program could only play a half. “They [the Waves] had a couple of players who could only play a half,” Lind said. “We had to work out who they would have on the court, it was pretty difficult and challenging across all the games.” Lind said there were definitely some signs of improvement within the team. She said it was always going to take some time for them to develop. “The lack of communication on court is really important to work on,” she said. “The team is pretty young and they have to work out how to fix things during the quarters instead of waiting until the breaks. “They are young kids who need to work together. There were some signs of improvement.” Jane Cook played her first full game back after COVID-19, allowing Maddi Gray and Uneeq Palavi to settle in goal attack out the front. Lind said they both showed some improvement. One move Lind did make was bring up Toni Lind from division 1. She said it was something they might look at doing, depending on whether they had access to some of the Super Netball players. “We brought her up to bring some experience and communication in the mid-court,” she 22 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 20 April, 2022

St Albans opened its account with a win against Hoppers Crossing on Good Friday in Western Region Football League division 1. The Saints took the lead in the first quarter and were able to maintain it throughout, winning 9.11 (65)7.11 (53). Cooper Pepi was named best on for the Saints, while Braden Ferrari was named the Warriors best. The rest of round three across all three divisions will continue this weekend.

NPL Werribee City fell short against Kingston City in round five of the National Premier League 2 competition on Saturday afternoon. Kingston started well and were quickly 2-0 up. The Bees would reduce to the margin with a goal to Nemanja Spasojevic in the 30th minute. It was quickly cancelled out when Kingston scored their third goal before half time. Despite playing with 10 men for much of the second half, Kingston won 3-2.

Soccer It was a tough weekend for Wyndham teams in the FV state league competition on the weekend. In state league 2 north-west, Hoppers Crossing lost to Western Suburbs, 4-2, while in state league 3 north-west, Point Cook lost to Williamstown, 2-0. In state league 4 west, Truganina Hornets lost to Greenvale United, 1-0, while in state league 5 west, Wyndham lost to Melton Phoenix 7-0, while West Point lost to Deakin University 3-1.

NAB League

Jane Cook was again strong for the Falcons.

(Shawn smits)

said of her daughter. “She’s more vocal and was able to provide some more leadership in the mid court.” The win brings the Falcons back to 2-3 and back in the mix. Lind said the competition was proving to be a really close one. “The competition is pretty even besides Geelong, who have been able to keep their staple players,” she said. “You don’t know who you are going to

play against. [Melbourne Vixens] Rahni Samson played for Southern Saints, while Nyah Allen was out due to playing in the SSN competition.” In division 1, had a 56-45 win against the Waves. There is a competition wide bye due to the national championships. The Falcons will be back in action on April 27 against the Southern Saints.

The Western Jets returned to the winners list on Saturday against old rival, the Calder Cannons. The Jets blew the game open in the second quarter with four goals to none. While they lost the third quarter, the Jets finished it off strong, winning, 12.13 (85)-6.12 (48). FOR MORE SPORT, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Wyndham Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

WERRIBEE FOOTBALL CLUB Y

Werribee happy to be back on winners list By Max Hatzoglou Werribee picked up its second win of the season in round four, defeating Williamstown by seven points on Friday playing away from home at Downer Oval. Werribee played a strong first half, leading by 18 points at quarter time and half-time before a comeback from the Seagulls emerged. Werribee managed to hold off a strong comeback from the Seagulls, who found themselves leading by three points midway through the last quarter. A goal from Kye Declase put Werribee back in front however and it was able to hold on to win by seven points. Werribee coach Michael Barlow gave credit to the opposition and said he was happy to come away with the win, which he believes could have gone either way. “It was a lot better when you get the four points as opposed to not getting them clearly, we allowed opportunity to be exposed and Williamstown really took their chances and really matched us, in particular around the ball and capitalised off some lapses in our play,” Barlow said. “Credit to them, they’re well coached, they’re well structured, they’re hard to play against absolutely. “They’d be assessing that game and looking at opportunities missed because right at the end, clearly that could have gone either way.” Barlow said the game never felt as if his team had got away from the Seagulls. “Ideally, you got to go to three quarter time breaks and you feel comfortable with where you’re at, and the scoreboards taking care of itself, but across the game, it just never felt like we shrugged them and that was clearly the case coming into the last quarter,” he said. After losing by 52 points to Southport last week at home, Barlow was happy his team were able to get a positive result this week. Barlow also gave credit to 50th gamer Jack Henderson who had a positive milestone game with 24 disposals, two

Jack Henderson following the win over the Seagulls.

tackles and two marks. “Jack won the coaches award last year, they say coaches don’t have favourites, but when they make you give a coach’s award, it kind of gives you a little bit of an indication of how that player is perceived not only by the coaches but clearly by the

(Belinda Vitacca Photography)

playing group,” he said. “His story is a remarkable one. “A young man, undeveloped, undersized, coming into our program in 2018. “I think he was the last player picked in the squad in that particular year.

“He has played different roles; he’s played back, forward and mid across his 50 games. “He is a pleasure to coach and he was really good today, he gives us a lot of bite around the contest and good leadership for a young man.”

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Wednesday, 20 April, 2022 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY 23