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A year for community YEAR IN REVIEW ... STORIES OF THE YEAR

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Maribyrnong and Hobson Bay roared back to life in 2022 after two years of COVID lockdowns. Community events, stage shows, school fetes and music festivals were held across the inner west for the first time since 2020, as the pandemic slowly began to fade from the headlines. In October, the Maribyrnong community rallied together after water from the Maribyrnong River inundated homes. We look back at how 2022 unfolded in Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay. As we welcomed 2022, chronic staff shortages driven by increasing COVID-19 cases were putting a strain on businesses in Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay, particularly those in the hospitality sector. In February, the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre was desperately trying to find out what happened to its order of rapid antigen tests which had not been fully delivered more than five weeks after the order was placed. It came as the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission launched an investigation into the supply of RATs after several orders placed by multiple charities were delayed. In March, a majority of surveyed Maribyrnong residents threw 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. In April, Hobsons Bay council proposed the introduction of paid parking meters at Altona beach in a bid to offset infrastructure costs. The proposal was eventually given the greenlight in December. In June, Hobsons Bay council drew the ire of Spotswood Football Netball Club after construction of the new pavilion at Donald McLean Reserve stretched beyond the two-and-a-half-year mark. Also in June, Yarraville residents were critical of Maribyrnong council’s proposal to build an indoor sports stadium at McIvor

Maribyrnong residents Rabia Menekse and Kristen Roberts consoled each other looking at the damage the flooding caused.

Reserve, believing it should not be built on green space. In August, Hobsons Bay council proceeded with plans to close the Laverton Swim and Fitness Centre and build a new state-of-the-art aquatics centre in Altona Meadows. The biggest story of the year hit the headlines in October as parts of Maribyrnong were inundated with flood water.

Maribyrnong council labelled it “one of the worst flood events in the city’s history” as residents faced a lengthy clean up. A week after the flood, Carbone Lawyers started initial discussions with flood victims about a potential class action against the Victoria Racing Club [VRC]. The Victoria Racing Club [VRC] built a flood wall around the Flemington Racecourse in 2007, after receiving approval from the state

(Joe Mastroianni) 303824_01

government to undertake upgrade and flood protection in 2004. Melbourne Water launched a review of the decision to erect the flood wall around Flemington Racecourse following the flooding event. The VRC vowed to raise money during the Melbourne Cup Carnival to donate to the flood relief effort.

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M A R I B Y R N O N G

Citynews A MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR

OUT AND ABOUT

We rounded out 2022 in true Festival City style, with a spectacular fireworks display over the Maribyrnong River to usher in 2023. I was pleased to be among the crowd for our first New Year’s Eve fireworks at Footscray Park since 2019. An estimated 20,000 revellers gathered on the Eastern Lawn to reminisce with Jebediah songs and dance with Bluey and Bingo. These festivities are just the tip of the entertainment iceberg coming our way this summer. We’ll also be welcoming back Midsumma Westside as part of the Midsumma Festival, Australia’s premier queer arts and cultural festival. With 21 individual events taking place from 21 January to 12 February across four local government areas, the Midsumma program delivers something for everyone to enjoy. If you are looking to explore the rich history of our municipality, please join us for HIDDEN Footscray, which features artworks by six local artists. Delve deep beneath the cosmopolitan charm to uncover hidden stories of lost heritage, unknown traditional cultural practices, forgotten memories and more. The exhibition is being hosted at Footscray Community Arts from 14 January to 26 March. For more information about both Midsumma Westside and HIDDEN Footscray, please visit maribyrnong.vic.gov.au With school holidays well underway, if you are looking for another way to entertain your children – we have great news, the BIG Summer Read challenge is now taking place at our libraries. The challenge is designed to ensure young readers continue to be exposed to books and reading over their long summer break. It’s open to ages 0-18 and, for every ten books read until 31 January, participants go in the draw to win prizes! eBooks can be borrowed online and physical books in person at any of our five branches. To register and for more information visit maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/library

Wishing you all a happy New Year – and for those celebrating the Lunar New Year, joy and good fortune in 2023 – the Year of the Cat. Mayor Cr Sarah Carter

FEBRUARY COUNCIL MEETINGS Council meetings will resume in February at the Braybrook Community Hub. Tue 7 – 4.30pm Enterprise Maribyrnong Delegated Committee Tue 21 – 6.30pm Council Tue 28 – 6.30pm City Development Delegated Committee Please visit maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/meetings or phone 9688 0200 for more information.

City of Maribyrnong Councillors have been busy. 1. New Year’s Eve Fireworks explode over Footscray Park 2. Deputy Mayor, Cr Cuc Lam and Mayor, Cr Sarah Carter ready to ring in the New Year 3. Deputy Mayor, Cr Cuc Lam and Katie Hall MP in the festive spirit at the Yarraville Christmas Carols in the Garden 4. President of Macedonian Australian Community Organisation (MACO), Lidija Neskovski and Cr Simon

Maribyrnong City Council Postal Address: PO Box 58, West Footscray, VIC 3012

P: (03) 9688 0200 F: (03) 9687 7793 email@maribyrnong.vic.gov.au www.maribyrnong.vic.gov.au

Crawford enjoying the Macedonian Food Festival 5. Deputy Mayor, Cr Cuc Lam and Steve McGhie MP at the Albanian Festival 6. Mayor, Cr Sarah Carter with Victoria Police officers, recognising the generosity of Ted, for his donations of soft toys to children from flood impacted homes 7. Mayor Cr Sarah Carter and CEO Celia Haddock delivering Ted’s toys to CQV Commissioner Michelle Osborne

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Clear support for cannabis plan March 30 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, 2022, 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

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 percent (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 percent 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 localgovernment 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 seethe venture proceed any further,” he said.

Bellissimo Footscray brewery plan December 7 Franco Cozzo’s iconic Footscray store would be transformed into a three-storey Moon Dog brewery and bar featuring a water fountain, if plans with Maribyrnong council are approved. Moon Dog Brewery is proposing to transform the Hopkins Street building into a brewery with a DJ booth and rooftop bar, but has committed to paying tribute to the furniture king. Moon Dog co-founder Karl van Buuren said he and his team were “really excited” to realise their dreams for the site. “The building is such an iconic piece of Melbourne’s heritage and history,” he said. “We’re also looking at keeping the original furniture for people have a sit. “It will also be a three-storey venue with a rooftop bar, so there will be good views of Footscray.” The proposal has outlined that the brewery

and bar will be trading from 11am to 1am for seven days a week, with no more than 900 patrons permitted on site and no more than 850 patrons after midnight. A cult figure, Mr Cozzo arrived in Melbourne from Italy in 1956 as a 21-year-old. He became famous for sales pitches such as “Grand sale! Grand sale! Grand sale!” and the catchphrase “megalo, megalo, megalo”, a Greek word meaning, large, great or grand. As reported by Star Weekly, after half a century selling furniture in Footscray, Mr Cozzo sold the 1088-square-metre Hopkins Road premises for well over $6 million in 2018. Franco Cozzo’s iconic Footscray store would be transformed into a three-storey Moon Dog brewery and bar, if plans with Maribyrnong council are approved. (Supplied)

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Refugee RATs disappear February 9 The Asylum Seeker Resource Centre (ASRC) is trying to find out what happened to its order of rapid antigen tests (RATs), which has yet to be fully delivered more than five weeks after the order was placed. ASRC founder and chief executive Kon Karapanagiotidis said the Footscray-based organisation ordered RATs on January 3 in a bid to keep staff, volunteers and clients safe. Mr Karapanagiotidis said the order was meant to take three to five days to arrive but

the supplier contacted him to say that the order had been taken by the federal government.The Department of Health has denied the claim. “The Department of Health reaffirms that the department has not requisitioned all RAT supplies within and entering Australia,” the department said in a statement. “These claims are categorically untrue.” While Mr Karapanagiotidis received a third of his order last week, he is demanding to know what happened to the rest of the order. He said the ASRC is not the only charity affected.

“We’re not isolated as the only charity that this has happened to but we’re the only charity willing to publicly talk about it,” he said. The issue is being investigated by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC). In a statement, the ACCC said information provided to it suggests that because of the strong demand for RATs, suppliers at various levels in the distribution chain are making decisions about which customers to supply. “ACCC investigators are speaking with the suppliers involved and will look to address any

misrepresentations identified,” ACCC chair Rod Sims said. “The ACCC takes this opportunity to remind suppliers about the importance of honouring any contractual arrangements for supply, and of being honest about the reason why rapid antigen tests may currently be unavailable. Suppliers must be able to substantiate any claims they make about test availability, and we are asking them to do so.” Mr Karapanagiotidis said the issue should never have occurred in the first place. The ASRC’s supplier was contacted for comment.

Flooding class action against Vic racing club October 26 Carbone Lawyers has started initial discussions with Maribyrnong flood victims towards apotential class action against the Victoria Racing Club [VRC]. The Victoria Racing Club [VRC] built the flood wall around the Flemington Racecourse in 2007, after receiving approval from the state government to undertake upgrade and flood protection in 2004. As reported by Star Weekly, Melbourne Water has launched a review of the decision to erect the flood wall around Flemington Racecourse following the flooding event along the Maribyrnong River on Friday, October 14. Money raised from the Melbourne Cup Carnival will be donated to flood relief efforts, with the VRC initially pledging $500,000. VRC chairman Neil Wilson said the Melbourne Cup Carnival would use its platform to raise awareness of the ongoing flooding situation across the country. The VRC will announce the final amount raised on Saturday, November 5. Carbone Lawyers personal injury law and litigation head John Karantzis said about 150people had registered interest in the classaction so far.Mr Karantzis said Carbone Lawyers were also investigating a number of the causes of the flooding. “Potentially, we could be looking atany authorities that gave the planning approval for the wall,” he said. Maribyrnong resident Jane Trewin has been advocating for better flood management along the Maribyrnong River for a number of decades alongside her late husband Shane including pushing for the n of the Arundel retarding basin and pushing the construction of the Flemington Racecourse flood wall. “We probably wouldn’t be in the situation we are now,” she said. Mrs Trewin said the past week and a half had been “gut-wrenching” to see the damage felt across the Maribyrnong community. “I’ve lost my marital home,” she said. “I’m living out of my car at the moment.” Meanwhile Footscray SES volunteer Faye Bendrups said a communications failure and an inappropriate response meant Maribyrnong

Faye Bendrups.

(Joe Mastroianni). 304529

flood victims were not properly informed about the status of the flood. Dr Bendrups, who is also Victoria State Emergency Service Volunteers Association president and vice-chair of the National SES Volunteers Association, said one of the key issues surrounding the Maribyrnong flood was a

lack of preparedness. “I think it’s been widely reported that people might have been warned earlier. They had no time to get organised.” Dr Bendrups said the people on the ground did not have up-to-date information about the extent of the flood. A VICSES spokesperson said the organisation issued a number of

public information products and warnings to the Maribyrnong community which commenced with a proactive doorknock on Tuesday, October 11. A Watch and Act was issued on Thursday, October 13 followed by the emergency alerts and doorknocks to evacuate early on the Friday morning.

Puzzling speed U-turn has motorists confused July 20 A Brimbank resident has disputed a speeding infringement he received while driving south along Duke Street in Braybrook at the intersection with Ballarat Road, describing the situation as “confusing”. Josh Gomez received an infringement notice for travelling at 56km/h at 12.47pmon Monday, April 11. Maribyrnong council changed the speed limit on the eastern side of Duke Street from 60km/h to 40km/h on Tuesday, February 15,

but changed it back to 60km/h on Monday, April 18. Mr Gomez said he had heard from a number of other Brimbank and Maribyrnong road users who had received similar fines as they believed the speed limit along the road was 60km/h. He said they were feeling “extremely distressed and helpless” due to fine disputes being rejected and having to prepare to go to court to fight the infringements. “I’ve never felt so stressed,” Mr Gomez said. “I feel like we’re not being heard.”

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Brimbank council was not involved in the decision to change the speed limit. Maribyrnong chief executive Celia Haddock said council has reduced the speed limit on a number of roads as part of the Safer Local Roads program and in accordance with a Memorandum of Authorisation from the Department of Transport. “Motorists are required to adhere to the posted speed limit on local roads,” she said. “As per VicRoads guidelines, the default speed limit for all roads in built-up areas

where no speed limits signs are displayed is 50km/h.” A Department of Transport spokesperson said Brimbank council managed the western side of Duke Street, while Maribyrnong council managed the eastern side.“Speed limits need to be suitable for the specific road environment and are reviewed and approved on a case-by-case basis,” the spokesperson said. “Assessments, consultation and implementation of changes to speed limits are under the management of both councils.”

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Attempted carjacking Police are appealing for public assistance following an attempted carjacking in Yarraville on Sunday, January 8. Police said an unknown man approached the male victim while he was reversing his vehicle at a home on Stephen Street at about 4.30pm, entered the vehicle and demanded the vehicle. According to police, the man then assaulted the victim. Two witnesses then assisted by temporarily holding the man down on the ground, before the man fled on foot towards Lennox Street. Details: 1800 333 000 or www. crimestoppersvic.com.au

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Midsumma fun There will be plenty of colour and entertainment as the Midsumma Festival hits Melbourne’s west later this month. Midsumma is Victoria’s premier queer arts and cultural organisation, bringing together a diverse mix of LGBTQIA+ artists, performers, communities and audiences. Following the success of recent years, councils, including Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay, have supported the festival, which kicks off on Saturday, January 21. Among the events, Maribyrnong council is hosting an evening of multi-disciplinary performance art by creatives with roots in the western suburbs, along with an author talk and Hobsons Bay council is encouraging

residents of the west to be part of a rainbow installation, while there is also an outdoor exhibition space set to arrive in Laverton. Louis Joel Arts and Community Centre is hosting a multi-media exhibition, while there will be a queer history walk in Footscray. Lucy Best will perform at the Bowery Theatre in St Albans, while Brimbank council and Bulldog Pride will host a pool party in Sunshine. In Wyndham, the Park Lounge returns to Kelly Park, while The Substation in Newport will host the Queen on Country by Peter Waples-Crowe and there is a Pier Festival in Williamstown. Details: www.midsumma.org.au/whats-on

A nine-year-old boy with autism, who travelled from Braybrook to Avondale Heights, was rescued from the embankment of the Maribyrnong River on Monday, January 2. The boy was found swimming in the river by a member of the public near Peerless Court about 7.30pm. When police arrived a short time later, the boy appeared to be lost, exhausted on the river embankment, and struggling to communicate. Police jumped down the river embankment to rescue the child, who was unable to walk as his legs were so numb from the cold. They carried him about 1.5 kilometres up a steep hill to Peerless Court. FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Maribyrnong & Hobsons Bay Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

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Garden permit tussle August 3 Footscray’s Eddie Kwong has described Maribyrnong council’s demands to fill out a landscaping permit and remove the animals from his community garden and animal nursery as “ridiculous. A resident of an apartment backing onto Footscray Park, Mr Kwong has been developing the garden for about 12 years, which now includes the world’s tallest ‘flower tower’, vegetables and a wide array of animals, including rabbits, guinea pigs and chickens. Mr Kwong said people of all ages visited the garden, where they can pick up and pet the animals. A petition, launched about a week and a half ago, has attracted more than 1750 signatures in support of retaining the space. Maribyrnong acting chief executive

Laura-Jo Mellan said council had supplied Mr Kwong with an application for the required landscaping permit seeking formal permission for the extension of the property’s garden into community space, as well as a notice to comply. “Council supports the beautification of community spaces, but a landscaping permit is required for works on public land to ensure any plantings are consistent with other plantings in the area and don’t exclude or create any hazards for the community,” she said. “Animals are, however, required to be housed on private property for community safety, ownership and liability reasons.” Ms Mellan said council officers had committed to undertaking a full assessment of the situation and no further action will be taken until it is completed.

Mr Kwong said the community garden had become a popular attraction for the Footscray community, especially during the pandemic, with an estimated 15,000 visitors since he first started the garden. Councillor Jorge Jorquera urged the community to support the garden. “I would like to see more community gardens on public lands, both as part of the desperately important ecological care we need for good health and environmental survival, and as part of developing urban farming that can support other food security initiatives.” Details: petitions.sumofus.org/petitions/ save-footscray-park-s-community-garden2aballarat-rd-footscray.

Footscray resident Eddie Kwong has received a notice to comply with Maribyrnong council’s demands to remove animals from his community garden and fill out a landscaping permit. (Joe Mastroianni). 291661_03

Words spell out a long life August 10

West Footscray poet Ted Logan has published his fourth book of poetry. (Damjan Janevski) 283984_03

Ted’s writing is a poetic potpourri June 15 West Footscray’s Ted Logan has released his fourth book of poetry, which features a range of autobiographical works and a poem which hypothesises that Jesus Christ was not resurrected but was instead his ’twin’. A former mayor on the old Footscray council, he has since turned his hand at poetry and has released four collections since 2016. Titled ’Poetry Potpourri 4: A final variety of verse’, the latest collection features a poem called ’The Empty Tomb’, which puts forward a theory that Jude, a ’twin’ of Jesus was ’resurrected’ as Jesus.

The collection also includes a personal recount of the Manchester Blitz bombing event in Manchester in 1940, where the German Luftwaffe conducted a number of raids on the city of Manchester. Logan said he was born in Manchester in 1932 and was only seven or eight during the bombings. “Back in those days, people didn’t have phones,“ he said. “It was a mighty explosive roar. We got on a double deck tram to take us to our aunt and uncle Minnie and Jack.“ Logan became emotional recounting the damage he witnessed in Manchester.

“Chimney bricks had fallen and windows had blown out,“ he said. Logan decided to become a poet after recovering from a subdural haematoma in 2011. He has dedicated the collection to his late daughter Alison Maree Logan, who died at the age of six after being struck by a car in Morwell. The collection also features a poem titled ’The Last Days of Footscray’ concerning the impacts of the Local Government Reform Bill on the former Footscray council and a letter to British poet and playwright Carol Ann Duffy. Details: tedlogan@hotkey.net.au

Baptcare Westhaven Community Footscray resident Audrey Clifton has seen the world transform around her over the past 100 years. However, one thing has never changed: her love for Scrabble has remained stronger than ever. Born on August 6, 1922, Mrs Clifton grew up in Horsham on a wheat farm and then moved to Ascot Vale in Melbourne’s north-west. She worked in the Little Collins Street tram offices counting fares and tickets, but then completed her Higher Secondary School [HSC] certificiate at the age of 50, with a keen interest in English literature and Australian history. Mrs Clifton was the child of Vera and Harry and had three siblings. She married her husband Norman and they had three children – Mary, Martin and John – and she now has nine grandchildren. Mrs Clifton said she was proud of her children’s achievements. “I think they are all different,” she said. Mrs Clifton has been playing Scrabble since the 1960s and travelled to Norfolk Island to compete against others. She has continued to play Scrabble online on her iPad or her computer and she has witnessed her children and grandchildren participating in Scrabble competitions. Mrs Clifton said she can not leave this world until Essendon win another grand final. She said her secret to a long life was trying not to stress. “Leave it for someone else to do,” Mrs Clifton said. “Live life to the fullest.”

Williamstown community rallies behind appeal for amputee mum April 6 When Williamstown mother Kerrilie Rice dropped her daughter off at kindergarten for the first day of the year, she expected she would be there again at the end of the day to pick her up. However, a simple walk on the beach with her friend would prove life changing. It was January 6 and Kerrilie was walking along a rocky section of the Williamstown dog beach. All of a sudden, after placing her foot on a rock covered with seaweed, she slipped, smashed her knee and cut a crucial artery that ran along the back of her leg.

She was rushed to hospital, where she had multiple surgeries to try and repair the artery. However, the muscles in the bottom half of her leg and foot had already started to die. She was given two options – endure four more operations to keep her leg which would never be properly functional again, or receive an above-the-knee amputation. She chose the latter. “I just said I don’t see what’s the point of having a dead leg,” Kerrilie said. “It probably took maybe two weeks or 10 days or something but I just said this at the beginning and I’m confirming it now, I want

6 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 11 January, 2023

an amputation. I could not see a reason not to do it.” Kerrilie had left her three-year-old daughter at home with partner Meg, whom Kerrilie had been caring for full time care since a major incident 11 years left Meg with brain damage. Prior to her own accident, Kerrilie had been in charge of running the family. “I do the shopping and run the household and we have a three and a half year old … so I do the vast majority of the physical parenting,” she said. “When Meg’s wheelchair gets damaged or she’s got pain and she needs a medical

appointment, all of that, I do all of that.” While Kerrilie has now left hospital and is in rehab, she has a long road ahead, one that issue to be expensive. To help cover the many costs, including a prosthetic leg, a friend has set up a GoFundMe, which has already raised almost $18,000. While initially reluctant to accept help, Kerrilie is now grateful for all the people who have rallied around her and donated. “We’re so lucky to live where we do with people being so kind to us, and I think it will be the same when I go home.” Kerrilie’s friends hope to raise $30,000.

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Push for traffic signals

Diversity data

June 29

The 2021 Census data has highlighted that more than one in every 10 Maribyrnong residents has Vietnamese heritage, placing it as the most prevalent within Maribyrnong outside of Australian and English. Maribyrnong mayor Anthony Tran said the community was “incredibly proud” of its strong and rich Vietnamese heritage and culture. “As the son of Vietnamese refugees I know first-hand how welcoming our community is,” he said. “Vietnamese culture is ingrained in the inner west and contributes to the strong social fabric of Maribyrnong. “This can be seen in our local eateries, shops, and festivals and events that celebrate and embrace Vietnamese culture.” Braybrook’s Quang Minh Temple Venerable Abbot Thich Phuoc Tan said the hard work of a number of people has created a welcoming place for Vietnamese people. “Many migrants and refugees have called this place home and shared our cultural treasures with other communities to enrich this city’s multicultural heritage,” he said.

Brooklyn and district road users have joined the call for the state government to consider installing signalised traffic exits along Millers Road. Hobsons Bay councillor Daria Kellander said Brooklyn residents and the parents of Annunciation Primary School pupils had raised the safety issue for a number of years. “They’re often faced with flooring it to make the unsafe attempt to turn right into fast moving and congested traffic,” she said. Cr Kellander said residents had told her about a number of near misses and accidents along Millers Road, especially at the intersection with Nolan Avenue. “The alternative is making a left turn and spending over half an hour stuck in traffic back tracking onto Geelong Road, Grieves Parade and down Blackshaws Road where traffic lights do exist,” she said. “After everything that residents have had to endure with this project, the least the state government can offer is the ability for a safe exit for Brooklyn residents out of their suburb.” A state government spokesperson said while there were no changes planned at the intersection of Millers Road and Nolan Avenue, the Department of Transport would continue to monitor changing traffic conditions. “We will continue to engage with the community and industry across a range of inner west transport initiatives to inform the development of Melbourne’s western transport network,” the spokesperson said. Altona North’s Eva Butcher said she often has to wait for up to 10 minutes at the intersection of Nolan Avenue and Millers

July 6

Hobsons Bay councillor Daria Kellander with her husband Brent and daughter Zoey, 3, joined local residents Alexandra Damasoliotis and Yvette Thursby to call for a signalised traffic light along Millers Road in Brooklyn to allow for road users to turn right from roads to the west of Millers Road safely. (Damjan Janevski) 286664_02

Road. “It’s just a nightmare,” she said. Altona North resident Alexandra Damasoliotis said crossing Millers Road

during peak traffic was “ridiculous”. “Something definitely needs to be done,” she said.

Maribyrnong mayor Anthony Tran and the Venerable Abbot Thich Phuoc Tan at the Quang Minh Buddhist Temple. (Damjan Janevski) 287872_01

We’re building big near you and there will be transport disruptions As part of Victoria’s Big Build, we’re building the West Gate Tunnel to create better connections across our city and take thousands of trucks off local roads. We’re also upgrading the City Loop.

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YEAR IN REVIEW ... HEALTH

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Call for second injecting facility August 17 A public health institute has co-released a report in support of introducing a second safe injecting room for Melbourne, with one of the report’s co-authors calling for further conversations to be held between drug users, including those in Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay, and key stakeholders about its location. The Burnet Institute senior fellow and one of the report’s co-authors, Dr Peter Higgs, said the National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre [NDARC] report showed

that a number of respondents indicated the Richmond safe injecting room was too far for them to travel to be a practical option for regular use. “If you have more than one, you can disperse the problem of people hanging around the facility,” he said. “There is definitely a need. “Having one room alone does not deal with the breadth and depth of the issue.” The NDARC report showed that out of the top responses for why respondents did not use the Richmond facility, 65 per cent of 2020 respondents and 36 per cent of 2021

respondents indicated the Richmond facility was too far from where they lived. Dr Higgs said further conversations were required between the state government, local government and drug users within the western suburbs about what form and what location would work best for a potential second safe injecting room. “We need to talk with drug users,” he said. “We need to ask what they want.” A report from a review panel of the Richmond facility released in June also recommended that the state government look into expands the current trial to include

another supervised injecting service in an appropriate location within the Melbourne CBD. Maribyrnong councillor Michael Clarke said he would not support the introduction of a safe injecting room within Maribyrnong. “We don’t have an IV drug problem,” he said. “It would be highly inappropriate to locate this facility in Maribyrnong.” Cr Clarke said he had seen no figures to indicate a problem which would support a safe injecting room within Maribyrnong.

Kicking goals in blood challenge September 14 Western Bulldogs Community Foundation staff members are rolling up their sleeves to donate much-needed blood. As part of the AFL Blood Challenge, Australian Red Cross Lifeblood welcomed AFL staff members to donate blood, plasma or platelets at centres across the city, including at a pop-up centre in Williamstown. The inaugural AFL Blood Challenge is a friendly competition between industry colleagues from the AFL’s head office and AFL clubs across the country to see which team can give the most donations and finish on top of the ladder at the end of the season. Western Bulldogs Community Foundation community health and wellbeing manager

Alyce Vella said the group are committed to supporting community needs of the west of Melbourne and beyond. “That’s why our team are rolling up their sleeves to donate blood as part of the Lifeblood challenge,” she said. Lifeblood spokesperson Elle Giles said they are seeing the highest levels of cancellations and non-attendances alongside the highest hospital demand for blood products since 2013. “We are seeing around 30,000 blood donors every week cancelling or rescheduling their appointments – that’s equivalent to filling VU Whitten Oval three times over,” she said.

Western Bulldogs Community Foundation staff members Alyce Vella, Michelle Attard, Naomi Fitzgerald and Quang Huynh are excited to beparticipating in the inaugural AFL Blood Challenge. (Damjan Janevski) 297843_01

YOUR NEW CAREER ... starts here PRINT AND ONLINE SALES EXECUTIVE

REQUIRED

Star Weekly seeks an enthusiastic sales executive to work across our print, digital, social and online platforms. 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. 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: Advertising Sales Manager, Mandy Clark salescareers@starnewsgroup.com.au

12570945-JC40-22

8 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 11 January, 2023

SECTION

12584641-SN02-23

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Wednesday, 11 January, 2023 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 9

YEAR IN REVIEW ... IN PICTURES

Tishya Del Rosario was a Top Model contestant in July. (Damjan Janevski) 313601_10

The Wiggles performed at Wyndham Cultural Centre in June.

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

(Damjan

Srimathumitha released a yoga album in May.

(Damjan Janevski)

Janevski) 313601_02

2022 through Star Weekly’s lens Star Weekly photographer Damjan Janveski shares his favourite pictures from 2022.

Robin Bootle posed for this pictured ahead of the Sunbury Model Railway Club exhibition in October.

12544962-AV15-22

Sarah Harvey, owner of Cafe 500 at the Melton airfield posed with her goat for this photo in January. (Damjan Janevski) 313601_07

10 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 11 January, 2023

(Damjan Janevski) 313601_03

YEAR IN REVIEW ... IN PICTURES

Phung Thanh Nguyen’s animal-shaped hedges caught our eye in August.

This photo of Daisy was captured in September to promote Lort Smith Campbellfield’s Mission Adoptable campaign. (Damjan Janevski) 313601_01

(Damjan Janevski) 313601_09

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

This picture of Bilal, 5, praying at the Melbourne Grand Mosque was taken in March. (Damjan Janevski) 313601_16

In April, Star Weekly showcased John Warren’s ‘crazy caravan’ that he built from scratch. (Damjan Janevski) 313601_06

James Liotta and Piero Viavatene hit the road with their new show featuring their characters Pasquale Pappagallo and Pippo Siciliano in February. (Damjan Janevski) 313601_08

Plan ahead for summer works From Wednesday 11 January to Monday 27 February 2023

This summer, crews are completing a series of works across the West Gate Tunnel Project that affects how you’ll move to and from the city. There are 24/7 lane, road and ramp closures in place across the network. These works are part of delivering a vital alternative to the West Gate Bridge.

Locations • Footscray Road (continues to June) • West Gate Freeway lanes • Williamstown Road outbound entry ramp • Williamstown Road interchange • Hyde Street, Douglas Parade and Simcock Avenue

We understand that these closures are disruptive and thank you for your ongoing patience as we work as quickly and safely as possible to get the job done. Major delays are expected—please plan ahead. Please note there may be other works happening across the network during this time. Visit bigbuild.vic.gov.au for more information. Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne 12581457-DL02-23

Wednesday, 11 January, 2023 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 11

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

AeroSpeakers Toastmasters Club 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 7-9.30pm. n Helen Fairlie, 0474 498 052

Art workshops The Louis Joel Arts & Community Centre presents MonArt. Workshops for people of all abilities facilitated by community art specialist Amanda Neville, Mondays 10am-11.30am. $5 casual fee each week. n admin@ljac.com.au, or 9398 2511

West Footscray Rotary The Rotary Club of West Footscray meets at the Medway Golf Club in Maidstone for lunch, fellowship and guest speakers each Wednesday from 12.30 until 2pm. n David, 0416 497 398

Drop in chess, cards and Scrabble: If you love playing chess, cards or a game of Scrabble in an informal and fun setting, visit Braybrook Community Centre on Tuesdays, from noon to 2.30pm. n

9397 6168

Walking group

Altona book sale

The Altona Meadows & Newport Heart Foundation Walking Group is a local community of men and women committed to walking and socialising together for about 60 minutes. It meets Wednesdays at 10am at the Jolly Miller Cafe in Altona Meadows or Fridays at 10am at the Newport Lakes Reserve. Members are required to register with the Heart Foundation in order to join. n iIan Watson, 0411 566 862, or www.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/Community/ Whats-On/Altona-Meadows-and -NewportHeart-Foundation-Walking-Groupsi

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 to 1pm. n libraries.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/ community/friends-of-the-libraries

Williamstown book sale

Friends of Williamstown Library holds a book sale every second Saturday of each month, 10am-12.30 pm. The book sale is held at Williamstown library in the Friends room, which can be accessed through the front desk. The event is cash only. n libraries.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.aui

Woodcarving workshop Aimed at all levels of ability in the ancient and international craft of woodcarving. Women are welcome. Bring your own tools and projects if possible. Or do you have Grandpa’s old gouges to donate? On Tuesdays, 9.30am to noon, at 280 Queen Street, Altona. n jah2802rot@gmail.com

Alcoholics Anonymous Regular meetings of Alcoholics Anonymous are held at St Andrew’s Church Hall, Williamstown, Wednesday at 7pm and Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Newport, Thursday 6.30pm and Saturday 8.30am. All welcome including friends and family of people with drinking problems. n 1300 22 22 22, or www.aatimes.org.au

Women’s choir Willin Wimmin choir welcomes new members. It meets every Wednesday in term time from 7.30pm to 9.30 pm at Church of Christ Hall in Douglas Parade, Williamstown. There are no auditions and members don’t need to be able to read music. n willin.wimmin@gmail.com

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 to 4pm. n www.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/Community/ Whats-On/Williamstown-Craft-Market

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

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. n Roger Lewis, hbcityband@gmail.com, or www.hbcb.org.au

Heritage walks Enjoy a leisurely walk around historic Williamstown and nearby suburbs with guide John. Walks start at 9.20 am each Tuesday outside the Visitor Information Centre, Nelson Place. n John, 0418 377 336

Altona North Combined Probus 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. n Lesley, 0414 481 442

Wednesday walking group The Williamstown Community Centre offers a regular Wednesday walking group that walks the local area, 10.15-11am. New members are warmly welcome. This activity is free and includes morning tea.

Point Gellibrand 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

12 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 11 January, 2023

for a 6.30pm dinner meeting. The club has some great speakers and need new, energetic, enthusiastic members who want to make a difference in their community. n www.rotarypointgellibrand.com.au, 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. New members welcome. n Heather, 9399 2190 or ymob1933@ yahoo.com.au

Friendship group Altona Day Voice Interest and Education of Women [VIEW] 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. n Janet, 9394 6522 or 0412 010 176

current affairs, history and lunch groups. Most classes/activities are held at Wyndham community centres. n Rick, 0402 299 220.

Lions Club Lions Club of Werribee meets at the RSL Club 2a Synnot Street Werribee on the first and third Wednesday of the month 6.30pm for a 7pm dinner meeting. n Lou, 0409 331 271

Bingo for all The Werribee RSL hosts Bingo every Monday, except public holidays. Eyes down from 12.30-2.30pm. n 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. n Don, 0414 975 862

Wyndham Ladies Probus Seniors House of Fun The Grange Community Centre would like to invite the seniors of Wyndham to its weekly Seniors House of Fun. This is a free program running every Friday 11am-12.30pm, at The Grange Community Centre, 260-280 Hogans Road, Hoppers Crossing. n Vanessa, 8742 800, or enquires@grangecommunity.org.au

Seniors club The Werribee Senior Citizens Club Inc meets at 80 Lonsdale Circuit, Hoppers Crossing. The group is open to all people 55-plus, and it runs on Wednesdays, 10am- noon. Entry: $2, includes morning tea. n 0403 041 499

Hoppers Crossing Ladies Probus The friendly and vibrant group meet at Hotel 520 on the second Wednesday of each month from 10am. They have a guest speaker each month as well as social lunches, outings and theatre trips. n 0407 856 519

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. n Rosa Sanderson, 0410 303 046

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.

Deer Park Lions Club Deer Park Lions Club meets on the first Wednesday of every month at the Deer Park Senior Citizens Club, 119 Station Road, Deer Park. n Michael, 0417 307 572

Sunshine Community Brass Sunshine Community Brass band rehearses at 45 Furlong Road, North Sunshine, on Tuesdays from 7.30pm. n Andrew, 0419 444 620

U3A Werribee

St Albans senior citizens

The group is a not-for-profit community organisation for semi-retired and retired Wyndham residents. They hold a variety of classes/activities specifically designed for seniors, including, light physical and mental wellbeing sessions, arts, games and craft, and general classes such as

Meets at the centre at the corner of Alfrieda and William streets, St Albans, on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, from 9am-1.30pm. Annual membership: $10. Cost: $1 entry on attendance day. n Roma, 9338 3815

PUZZLES

No. 115

4 7 8 3

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

7 9 3 6 9

2 1

8 7 8 1

10 11 12 13

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

H 18

8 5 3 7 4 9 6 1 2

4 9 2 3 8 5 6 7 1

3 1 5 4 6 7 9 2 8

7 6 8 9 2 1 3 4 5

8 2 7 6 9 4 1 5 3

Today’s Aim: 23 words: Good 34 words: Very good

No. 115

5 LETTERS ACORN ANGST ANKLE ANTIC AORTA APRON

PROBE RAISE REARS RISER SABRE SCENE SCOOT SEEDS SKATE SLEDS SOLED STAFF STAID STEAL STYLE SWEET TOAST TREED URINE WASPS

WORDY WRATH

IMPENDS ORDERLY STIRRED

6 LETTERS ACORNS APPEAL MALTED MEREST SCARCE SEDATE

8 LETTERS ACREAGES ASSENTED ASTEROID CONCOCTS 10 LETTERS EVERYWHERE REFLECTORS

7 LETTERS ADVERSE CLAMPED ENTWINE

QUICK QUIZ

Who plays Eve Polastri in the UK spy series Killing Eve?

What type of tea is processed the least?

Insert the missing letters to make 10 words – five reading across the grid and five reading down.

And what book series is Killing Eve based on?

Who is the author behind the Red Rising trilogy?

In fan fiction, AU stands for what?

NOTE: more than one solution may be possible

The Oort cloud is named after which Dutch astronomer?

Ariana Grande (pictured) released what album in 2020?

10 The study of mosses and liverworts is called what?

What three main ingredients are used to make arrabbiata sauce?

In what decade was the National Heart Foundation of Australia established?

E R S

T H E R

O N E D R I T Y A C H E

T A C

BASER BASKS CIRCA EMAIL ENDED ENDER ENEMA ERROR GENIE GLOAT LANES LASER LASTS LOUSE MANES NIECE OCTAL ONION POISE POLAR

4 LETTERS DOGS EARN EARS ERAS NEAT SALE SLED STEM TONE TYRE

13-01-23

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

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

6 . $ 7 (

attire, earn, entrain, entrant, inert, inertia, inner, inter, intern, intra, irate, ITINERANT, natter, nattier, near, nitrate, nitre, nitrite, rain, rani, rant, rate, ratite, rein, rent, retain, retina, rite, tanner, tare, tarn, tart, tear, tern, tertian, tetra, tier, tinier, tinnier, titre, train, trait, treat, triennia, trine, trite

9 3 1 2 5 8 7 6 4

2 7 4 8 1 9 5 3 6

6 8 9 5 3 2 4 1 7

9 2 1 7 3 4 6 8 5

1 9 2 3 4 7 5 6 8

8 3 6 5 1 9 7 4 2

9 6 1 5 3 2 8 4 7

4 7 2 6 1 8 3 5 9

6 3 5 2 7 4 9 8 1

4 7 5 8 6 2 1 9 3

5 8 7 1 9 3 4 2 6

6 4 3 2 7 5 8 1 9

2 8 7 1 9 6 5 3 4

1 9 4 8 5 3 7 2 6

3 2 8 9 6 1 4 7 5

7 1 9 4 8 5 2 6 3

5 4 6 3 2 7 1 9 8

2 1 9 4 8 6 3 5 7

Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

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”.

46 words: Excellent

hard

medium

easy

9-LETTER WORD

6 9

5x5

Z N R O P X B E I WUMK

7 4

V S Y F GDQC A T L H J

4 7 2 6 7 8 4

3 LETTERS ANT ARE DIE ELF ERR GEE GYM ICE KIT LYE MAN NEE NOR ODD ODE OIL ORE PLY RAP TAN TIP TOO

No. 115

ANSWERS: 1. Sandra Oh 2. The Villanelle series by Luke Jennings 3. Alternate Universe 4. Positions 5. Garlic, tomato and dried red chilli peppers 6. 1950s 7. White tea 8. Pierce Brown 9. Jan Oort 10. Bryology

WORDFIT

6 & $ 5 5 $ & 3 (

4 9 6

DECODER

6 7 $ ) )

4 1 6

Transparent (5)

$ 1 . / (

DOWN 1

% $ 6 ( 5

7 9 1 6

26 27 28

8 5 , 1 (

medium

19 20 22 25

2 & 7 $ /

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

14 15 17 18 21 23 24

/ $ 6 7 6

2 5 5 6 4 3 1 9 9

7 ( $ / , 5 & $ 3 5 2 1 2 5 ( 2 5 1 6 ' ' 2 * 6 1 ( ( : , 1 ( 5 2 , ' $ 1 ( 6 7 + ( 5 ( 0 $ 1 7 $ , ' 2 , 6 ( 2 / ( '

5 3

$ 6 1 7 7 ( 0 * < : 0 $ 6 3 6

1 8 9

6 & 2 2 7 :2 5 ' < ( 1 ' ( 5 , ( & ( ( & 7 2 5 6 ( & / $ 0 6 7 < / ( ( 5 * ( 6 ( ( ' ( $ 7 $ 6 7 2 $ 6 7 3 ( 1 ' 6 / ( 9 ( 5 < ( ( 1 ( $ 2 5 7 $ 5 , 6 ( 5 6 / ( ' 6

4 6

Matchmaker (5) Workers (9) Lift (7) Of sufficient quality (2,2,3) Thinks deeply (9) Edgar – Poe (5) Weapon (3) Body of water to the East of Italy (8,3) Conspicuously oldfashioned thing (11) Male sheep (3) Follow in order (5) Speed of pulse (5,4) Avoiding contact with others (7) Print process (7) Complementary item (9) Meditators (5)

. 6 , & 7 ( 1 / ( $ 6 ( ( $ 5 5 1 ' , 0 ( $ / $ 7 5 ( ( '

easy

Inflammation of the lung (9) Empty; use up (5) Voter (7) Former German state (7) Social exclusion (9) Force out (5) Bully (9) Republic in Central America (9) Track and field (9) Flowing (9) Shakespeare character (7) Visuals (7) Unmoved (5) Sticky (5) Rims (5)

2 3 4 5 6 7 8 13

ACROSS 1 4 9 10 11 12 13 14

No. 115

3 5 2 % (

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.

QUICK CROSSWORD

3 2 / $ 5

No. 115

$ 1 * 6 7

SUDOKU

Wednesday, 11 January, 2023 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 13

SECTION STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

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ADVERTISE

SPORTS QUIZ 4. At which two Olympics did former swimming great Grant Hackett win gold medals?

1. Which decorated AFL player recently married his longtime girlfriend? 2. Untold: Deal with the Devil is a 2021 documentary film about which former professional boxer?

5. Which NBL team does Xavier Cooks currently play for? 6. Which European golf legend recently passed away at the age of 62?

3. What was the reason for a 40-minute delay during an NBA match between Denver Nuggets and Boston Celtics?

7. Which team does Qatari Rally driver Nasser AlAttiyah race for? 8. Which ex-AFL star and analyst announced he was taking a break from his media career and moving his family overseas? 9. Steve Carell plays unconventional boxing enthusiast John du Pont in which 2014 film? 10. Cleveland Cavaliers star Donovan Mitchell made history after scoring how many points against Chicago Bulls? 11. Which Australian sporting league recently announced its season would be reduced from 61 to 43 games in future seasons?

12. Which AFLW team finished at the bottom of the ladder during season seven in 2022?

Cadel Evans

13. In what year did Cadel Evans win the Tour de France? 14. Kerri Pottharst and Natalie Cook won a Gold Medal in what event at the 2000 Sydney Olympics? 15. Alexei Popyrin represents Australia in which sport? 16. Which AFL team did Australian test wicketkeeper Alex Carey once play for? 17. Which car company is a major sponsor of the Australian Open tennis? 18. 'Mankading' is a term used in which sport? 19. The Australian Diamonds netball team will take part in a quad series in January to be held in which nation? 20. Which Australian cricketer tested positive for COVID on the first day of the Third Test against South Africa? 21. Which American businessman is president of the Ultimate Fighting Championship organisation?

23. In 1966, with her attempt to register for the race refused, who became the first woman to run the Boston Marathon? 24. And in 1967, despite interference from a race official, who became the first woman to run the Boston Marathon with an official race registration? 25. Which 1989-founded tennis tournament was replaced by the ATP Cup from 2020-22, which itself was replaced by the United Cup? 26. Which South African bowler was struck by part of a cablesuspended camera system as it filmed the 2022 Boxing Day Test?

22. ICC Cricket Hall of Fame member Vinoo Mankad played 44 Test matches between 1946 and 1959 for which nation?

27. Australian motorcyclists Daniel Sanders, Toby Price and Andrew Houlihan competed in the 2022 edition of which off-road endurance event? 28. The Motor City Cruise is an NBA G League team affiliated with which NBA team? 29. Which Portugal-born Australian cricketer captains the Sydney Sixers in the Big Bash League? 30. Pelé played three seasons for which now-defunct North American Soccer League club?

Donovan Mitchell 1. Patrick Cripps 2. Christy Martin 3. Crooked hoop 4. 2000 Summer Olympics in Sydney and the 2004 Summer Olympics in Athens 5. Sydney Kings 6. Barry Lane 7. Toyota Gazoo Racing 8. Nick Riewoldt 9. Foxcatcher 10. 71 points 11. Big Bash League 12. Sydney 13. 2011 14. Beach volleyball 15. Tennis 16. GWS Giants 17. Kia 18. Cricket 19. South Africa 20. Matt Renshaw 21. Dana White 22. India 23. Bobbi Gibb 24. Katherine Switzer 25. Hopman Cup 26. Anrich Nortje 27. Dakar Rally 28. Detroit Pistons 29. Moisés Henriques 30. New York Cosmos V

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Pajero proves versatile

Pajero Sport has Mitsubishi’s Dynamic Shield which gives it an excellent look.

By Ewan Kennedy

AT A GLANCE MODEL RANGE

Mitsubishi Pajero is a large vehicle that’s been a major player in the Australian 4WD / SUV field for many years. It’s sold as a five-seat GLX, and seven-seat GLS, Exceed and GSR. Our test vehicle for the past week has been the GSR.

GLX 2WD: $44,440 GLS 2WD: $49,190 GLX 4WD: $49,440 GLS 4WD: $54,190

STYLING

Exceed 4WD: $59,690

Pajero Sport has Mitsubishi’s Dynamic Shield styling. The grille features a black honeycomb design with projector headlamps positioned outside of the daytime running lights in a continuation of the grille. Depending on the model there are up to seven body colour options Black Mica and White Diamond are exclusive to the GSR. Our test Pajero Sport had the White Diamond and it certainly looked great. There are black exterior and interior accents, front and rear bumper garnish, on the radiator grille and roof rails. The Black Mica GSR also gets a black roof.

4WD and high and low range 4WD with locked centre differential. Off-Road modes are: gravel, mud/snow, sand or rock.

INTERIOR

SAFETY

The Pajero’s seats are large and comfortable and the steering wheel is adjustable for both height and reach. We found it easy to set everything up to the way we like it. This adds to the safety of the vehicle because the driver never feels the need to fiddle with settings that never feel quite right. The centre console has a modern shape. There are lower trays in the dashboard forward of the gear lever and more under the floor console, allowing access from both sides, giving improved utility and convenience. There’s plenty of headroom in all seats and second row legroom is reasonable. Unusually, the second-row seatback can also be tilted to give occupants the choice of which angle suits them best. Third row seats are best suited for young children as there’s not enough space for adults. Besides, the kids prefer to be as far away from Mum and Dad as possible… It’s hardly a surprise that rear storage space in the seven-seat Pajero Sport is minimal with the third-row seats in place. The base can by folded back to make for floor that’s almost completely flat. This expands the space up to 673 litres depending on the variant tested. There’s also a shallow compartment in the floor at the back with a lid to hide smaller items from view.

Standard safety features include seven airbags (front, side, curtain and driver’s knee); ABS brakes with emergency brake assist, electronic brakeforce distribution, brake override and emergency stop signal; stability, trailer and traction control; forward collision mitigation system; hill start assist and descent control, adaptive cruise control, reversing camera as well as rear parking sensors. There are two IsoFix child seat anchors in the second row of seats. Pajero Exceed and GSR also have blind spot warning, rear cross traffic alert, lane change assist, miss-acceleration mitigation system, an adjustable speed limiter and speed limit display. There is multi around monitor and front parking sensors.

ENGINES / TRANSMISSIONS All Pajero Sport models are powered by a 2.4-litre turbodiesel engine with outputs of 133 kW at 3500rpm and 430Nm at 2500 revs. The GLX and GLS come with the choice of two- or four-wheel drive, Exceed and GSR are 4WD only. Transmission is through an eight-speed automatic. All Pajero Sport 4WD models come with four drive modes: 2WD high range, full Time

GSR 4WD: $61,440 SPECIFICATIONS (Mitsubishi Pajero Sport GSR 2.4-litre diesel five-door wagon)

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

INFOTAINMENT All models have an 8-inch colour touchscreen, it is LCD in the Exceed and GSR. The entry-level GLX comes with Bluetooth connectivity with voice control and audio streaming, digital radio, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone mirroring. Pager Exceed and GSR have an 8-speaker premium sound system. A smartphone app which allows a range of features to be operated from outside the vehicle including tailgate opening, vehicle status check, fuel consumption check car finder function, set-up notification and Apple watch connectivity.

DRIVING Pajero Sport is a large vehicle so getting into it can be a task for smaller occupants. However, the side steps and grab handles make it simpler. Variants above the Pajero GLX come with a powered tailgate and a kick-motion sensor.

16 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 11 January, 2023

I found the sensors worked most of the time, not always the case in some other vehicles we’ve tested. Pajero Sport isn’t designed from the ground up as an SUV, rather it’s built on a Mitsubishi utility platform, in this case the Mitsubishi Triton. There’s plenty of grunt when needed and semi-serious off-road credentials but still smooth and comfortable on the bitumen. Towing capacity is very good, at 3100kg. Around town it has a tight – for its class – turning circle of 11.0 metres. Power assist has been calibrated to reduce steering effort when stationary or at low speeds while providing greater feedback at higher speeds. The Pajero Sport offers an easy, relatively refined drive with a nice blend of power and control. Given its real off-road capability it is not as compliant or gentle as those bitumen-only SUVs but it’s certainly comfortable enough. Fuel consumption is listed at 8.0 litres per 100 kilometres. We averaged 9.3 litres per hundred on our usual test course which includes motorway, flat and hill country roads as well as boring driving around the suburbs.

Performance: 8/10 Safety: 7/10 Thirst: 8/10 Practicality: 9/10 Comfort: 8/10 Tech: 7/10 Value: 8/10

ENGINE: Capacity: 2.442 litres Configuration: Four cylinders in line Maximum Power: 133 kW @ 3500 rpm Maximum Torque: 430 Nm @ 2500 rpm Fuel Type: Diesel Combined Fuel Cycle (ADR 81/02): 8.0 L/100km CO2 Emissions: 212 g/km

SUMMING UP

DRIVELINE:

Mitsubishi Pajero Sport is equally at home carrying out family duties in the urban environment where it’s likely to spend most of its time. It also works well in harsh off-road situations that would stop most of its softer rivals. Pajero is well-priced and comes with Mitsubishi’s very impressive 10-year warranty – provided that its always serviced at a dealership and doesn’t travel more than 200,000 kilometres in that period. Otherwise, it drops to five years and 100,000 km. Not so impressive when most five-year competitors provide unlimited distance.

Eight-speed automatic

RATINGS

10 years / 200,000 kilometres (but note conditions)

Looks: 8/10

DIMENSIONS, WEIGHT AND CAPACITIES: Length: 4825 mm Wheelbase: 2800 mm Width: 1815 mm Height: 1835 mm Turning Circle: 11.0 metres Kerb Mass: 2125 kg Fuel Tank Capacity: 68 litres

BRAKES: Front: Ventilated disc Rear: Ventilated disc

STANDARD WARRANTY:

YEAR IN REVIEW ... SPORT

Western United celebrate its first championship.

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

(Supplied/Getty Images)

United makes A-League history May 31 In just three short years, Western United has become the kings of the A-League men’s competition. Often criticised both on and off the park, United has continued to build and prove their critics wrong. They did exactly that on Saturday, May 28 in the A-League grand final. Under first-year coach John Aloisi, United beat Melbourne City 2-0. Aleksandar Prijovic was the key man as he flicked on a header that ended in a Nuno Reis own goal in the first two minutes before scoring a second goal on the half hour mark. Neither team would score in the second half, with United able to celebrate a significant achievement that not many people predicted. There were heroes all around the ground. Prijovic would win the Joe Marston Medal, but Neil Kilkenny in the midfield and captain on the day Josh Risdon coming up big when needed. Chants of John Aloisi rang out around the ground and even by players gatecrashing the after game press conference as the former Socceroo star’s return to coaching was capped off with his first A-League title as a coach. “The club is only three years old, so to be able to do that, what we did, not only tonight, from the beginning of the season is amazing,” he said. “It’s an amazing feeling, amazing night so happy for the football club as a whole.” All season Aloisi and the playing group spoke about belief and the feeling that they could create something special. While they believed it, not many others did, with United going in as the underdog against both other Melbourne teams in the finals. “We never spoke about nobody believing us, we spoke about us believing in ourselves more and about us working towards something,” Aloisi said.“Mindset, process, preparation. We didn’t care what others were saying, if we did I don’t think we would be in that position now. Having opened the scoring with the quickest goal in grand final history, Aloisi was weary of how the game would play out. He need not worry, with his side doing as they had so many times this season after scoring early. Aloisi said they looked dangerous goingforward, while also limiting City’s chances. Prijovic, who signed with the club on amulti-season deal, said there was a real belief in the squad right from the start. “I would say

Aleksandar Prijovic tries to get past Connor Metcalfe.

individual awards are always important as they are achieved as a team,” he said. “The team has been amazing from thecoaching staff to everyone to the fans.“Everything went our way, we believed init from the very beginning. ““As soon as we reached the final it’s going to be tough but we have to take it. Not many believed in us. But this is life we believed and it has been a very long way a long year, the game went in our favour. “We did a fantastic job today and I think everyone today in the stadium agrees we fully deserve this victory.” Kilkenny got to share the victory with his family. He had only seen them three weeks in the last six months.

(AAP Image/Joel Carrett)

Took Imai.

(AAP Image/Joel Carrett)

“It’s been a hard slog,” he said on the broadcast. “A lot of sacrifice but we are glad to be here now and to win it. “To share it with your family it’s one of those things. “The club wants to improve, they’re a club that wants to invest … it’s one of the best clubs I’ve been at.” For Aloisi, there was a sense of joy and relief at getting the victory. He admitted that he had his doubts it would ever happen. “I was sitting in my hospital bed nearly three years ago saying I want to coach, I need to coach, I have a lot more in me,” he said. “I believed that. I was waiting for the right opportunity and someone giving me that opportunity to coach. “Once you’re in a job then it’s not about you, it’s about the team, the

club and where we are going as a club. “It’s more satisfying when I see all the hardwork that goes into a new club. It’s not easy.” While the celebrations will last for a fewweeks, Aloisi said a win like this will only help in the journey of the club. “What I loved about the players we signed this year, it wasn’t just because they didn’t have anywhere else to go, it’s because theywanted to create history. “They wanted to come and felt that we were going to build something special and we were going challenge and create history and they are their reason we were ableto do that. “Now it might be easier, people will see that we mean business we don’t want to be here just to make up numbers.”

Wednesday, 11 January, 2023 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 17

YEAR IN REVIEW ... SPORT

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Vikings snare premiership glory September 20 Altona timed its run to perfection to seal its second Western Region Football League division 1 premiership. After being on top of the ladder last year when the season ended early due to COVID-19, the Vikings had to work hard to get back to have another shot. With players coming back from injury at the right time, the Vikings peaked come finals time with hard fought wins against Deer Park and Caroline Springs. On Saturday in the grand final against Werribee Districts, the Vikings were the better side in a typical Melbourne day of four seasons in one. After the Tigers kicked the first three of the game, the Vikings hit back and levelled the scores at quarter time. Once they hit the front, they stayed there, winning 10.21 (81)-9.4 (58). It was an emotional Vikings coach Corey McCall after the game. Two of the Vikings assistant coaches died during the season, making the premiership even more special. “This is what you dream of, all the hours you put in,” he said. “Everyone says coaching is a hard gig. You have to be really passionate and really driven, put in the hours. “To get that reward. The club has only won one in their history, so a second one 10 years later, I’m ecstatic for the boys as well.” McCall said they had a real slow start to the year, with the toll of the pandemic and interrupted football really taking its toll. He said a lot of guys didn’t handle the way last season ended well, with no finals played for a second straight year. “We had sort of struggled for pre-season numbers and were on the phone ringing,” he

Elliot Cavallaro after kicking a goal.

(Joe Mastroianni). 299309_23

Altona’s coach Corey McCall at final siren.

(Joe

Mastroianni). 299309_05

said. “They were saying I might go travelling, the whole mindset changed. We slowly reconnected them and football is great like that. “Football clubs are about relationships about connecting with your mates. “A lot of people were engrossed with work and to come back to footy and were like we really needed this, we just sort of started building from there.” McCall said they would have been happy starting the season 3-3, which they easily exceeded. With players coming back from injuries, the Vikings started to get even better and finished the regular season in second spot. “Towards the back end and when we had the opportunity to play in finals, everyone brought in then,” he said. “Our game against Caroline Springs was hard. My boys were really sore after that game.

“I had said I need to get some more games and minutes into our list and team, but after that game we needed that week off. “We looked really fresh we did a lot of non-contact running and ball movement.” The Tigers had created three upsets to make it to the grand final, but the premiership was one step too far. The Vikings dominated for most of the game, after setting up the win in the middle two quarters. It meant they could celebrate the victory late in the piece. “I thought we were really good defensively and they kicked two from the boundary and I thought gee whiz,” McCall said. “When you start kicking goals from the boundary it might be your day. “As I kept saying to the boys, we’re not converting our shots but we’re getting looks

and it’ll come eventually. “I would have liked to have had more of margin come three quarter time, [but] you take it by a point, you take it by 50 points if you win them. I’m extremely happy.” Connor Menadue was named best on ground, but that honour could have easily gone to Kelly Pickard. The defender took several defensive marks,especially in the last quarter when the Tigers were attacking. The premiership was the club’s second aftera one-point win in 2012. Steven Kennedy and Mitchell Turnbull are the only players to be part of both. While the Vikings seniors took home the premiership, the reserves fell short. Also facing Werribee Districts, it was the Tigers that took home the silverware, winning 11.4(70)-8.8 (56).

MCG victory celebration remembers Warnie March 30 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

Footscray United premiership side. (supplied)

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

18 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 11 January, 2023

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.

YEAR IN REVIEW ... SPORT

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Brookers claim premiership flag September 14 Interim Braybrook coach John Mangos used just one word to describe what was behind the side’s Western Region Football League division 3 premiership. After finishing the regular season in third spot, the Brookers were an underdog heading into finals. Already not one of the two fancied teams, the side had a change of coach. When outgoing coach Vinnie Turcinovich was suspended for three weeks, the club decided that he would finish up then. Mangos, who was assistant coach, moved into the coaching hot seat. He said despite the change in things, the belief in the playing group remained. He said that was the key to their preliminary final win against Albanvale. And they then backed it up on Sunday in the grand final against the Suns. The Brookers jumped out of the blocks and led throughout the match. The Suns came late and got the margin back to within a goal. They would run out of time, with the Brookers winning 6.14 (50)-5.18 (48). Mangos said the group was absolutely amazing. “I said it the other day, the belief in these guys,” he said. “The start was the most important thing and we implemented that. It was then about trying to hold on for dear life. “The plan worked. We just knew they were going to come.” Both teams had their chances to hit the scoreboard, but wasted shots on goal. The Suns kicked 2.5 in the opening quarter. The Suns kicked seven points for the third quarter.” Mangos said the side’s skills were good early in the game and that the Suns looked a bit sore. He said they were able to run the legs off them. “You only have one chance at a grand final,” he said. “We wanted to be harder than what they were. “The last 10 minutes of the game we got a bit tired. We’d been up for a long time and you’re going to have lapses which we did in the last 10 minutes.’ When the Suns got back to within a goal at the 27 minute mark. Mangos said there were some nerves. He turned to the radio crew to get an idea, but they didn’t know either.

Nicholas Papakalodoukas (Local Legends Photography)

The siren went just after the ball went back to the centre. “It didn’t matter whether the scoreboard said we won by 20 points or two points,” Mangos said. Captain Aidan O’Rafferty was named best on ground. Mangos said Luke Zammit, Nicholas Papakalodoukas and the Grubb brothers, Matthew, James and Mitchell, all had good games. It was Brody Vorano that impressed Mangos the most. “I believe the move of the whole finals series was that of Brody Vorano,” he said. “He went back to the twos late in the season. I thought he needed to kick goals for us seniors. “His spread and leading. He did his role in the finals.” The performances of Vorano meant that the Brookers could start Shaun Buttigieg-Clarke, who had kicked 100 goals for the season, in the middle of the ground. Among those part of the celebrations was Turcinovich, who took to the stage alongside Mangos and O’Rafferty and held the premiership cup.

Matthew Grundy (Local Legends Photography)

Mangos said the premiership, the club’s first since 2014, was for more than those involved. “We had a bus to the ground,” he said. “I think it was just not for the club, but it was about the community too. The Braybrook Hotel is our biggest sponsor, and their staff were there watching. “This was about the community stepping

up, the bigger picture.” With a premiership under his belt, Mangos is hoping he will get the opportunity to coach the side next season as it returns to division 2. “If I’m given the opportunity I would love to chat with the club,” he said. “I want to step up and have a crack at division 2.”

Western Crusaders cruise to crushing final win December 21 The Western Crusaders remarkable run in the Gridiron Victoria competition, continues, with the club claiming a fifth straight Vic Bowl on Saturday. The Crusaders entered the grand final as favourites against the Croydon Rangers and the side was able to put in a clinical display on the way to a 50-12 win. Crusaders’ Tyson Garnham said it was pretty special to have won the biggest prize of the year for a fifth time. “It’s really good,” he said. “Obviously that is the goal and every win is different each year. “Each year there’s some new people in the team. Some guys were playing in their first and others in their second. “Then you’ve got others like myself that have been part of all five. The goal is the same each year.” Garnham said he believed there were about eight guys who had been part of all five Vic Bowl wins. While Saturday’s match was a convincing one, it didn’t start that way. Garnham said they thought they would be in for a tough match. “I think the first couple of series we scored

Junior Alama was the grand final MVP.

(Erick Lucero)

and then they scored so we thought it would be quite a close game. “They couldn’t stop our offence and we kept scoring, while our defence was able to hold out. “The score line started to blow out.” The margin also allowed the Crusaders the opportunity to rotate their players. With two teams coming into one for the finals, the side had plenty of options.

“After half time we started to get everyone involved and we were really happy with that,” he said “There’s people who are new to the sport, so it was good to get them involved in the grand final. “The score line definitely helped with that.” Junior Alama was named the grand final most valuable player. The Crusaders dominance of the season was also recognised with some

individual awards that were revealed. Matthew Krul was named the league most valuable player, Garnham was the offensive most valuable player and Joel Iskra was named the linesman most valuable player. Garnham said they would have a break before thinking what was next, but winning six in a row is now the goal. He said it had been a really big year, with two seasons in the one year following COVID-19. Some players will be part of the state side for the national championships in April, with Garnham saying that 70 per cent of the state squad could come from their club. In a big boost for the club, new club rooms are being built and will hopefully be ready for next season. “It’s been pretty hard the last five years or as long as I’ve been playing at the club,” he said. “We’ve had to play away as the rooms haven’t been good enough. “It’s exciting that next year we’ll have the chance to play at our home ground which we couldn’t do this year due to the rooms and the floods. “We’re looking forward to having our own club rooms and having some of these trophies on display.”

Wednesday, 11 January, 2023 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 19

12584319-ET02-23

Its Time To Soar RECRUITING NOW

RECRUITING NOW

Like An eaGAL Our Senior Women’s Team Want You for 2023

eaGALS end of season trip Bali 2022 with CURRENT players ranging from all ages - EVERYONE is welcome to join our eaGALS family Come Down, give it a go, get fit, meet new friends and have FUN both ON & OFF the Field!

Training commences Tuesday 17th January Tuesday & Thursday Nights McIvor Reserve, Yarraville 6pm - 7.30pm (Enter McIvor Reserve through bowling club carpark) Coach: (3 time premiership coach) Peter Lazzaro All enquiries contact Peter 0417 326 693 or Chloe 0433 010 172 Email - lazzarochloe@gmail.com Like and follow our facebook page - Yarraville Seddon Eagles