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9 AUGUST, 2023
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Snapshot of the west Tarneit photographer Sagalee Aba-Omer has won the grand prize in this year’s Way out West photography competition. As part of the competition, young people living in Wyndham were asked to submit their best photograph to be in the running to win one of six prizes. Sagalee took out the top prize with captivating image titled ‘Everything everywhere all at once. The winners are on display at the Point Cook Library before moving to other venues. All entries will feature in the annual Way Out West Photobook, which will be available to view and borrow at Wyndham libraries and the Youth Resource Centre. Details: https://www.wyndham.vic.gov. au/wayoutwest ■ Story: Page 7
Sagalee Aba-Omer’s ‘Everything everywhere all at once’. (Supplied)
Rail axing ‘incorrect’ The state government has denied reports that it has axed proposed rail lines to Wyndham Vale and Melton. Reports last week claimed internal government documents released through freedom of information showed the Western Rail Plan, which involved new electrified train lines to Wyndham Vale and Melton, had been shelved. Speaking outside state Parliament on Wednesday, Deputy Premier Jacinta Allan said the reports were wrong.
“Lets be clear, those reports and that characterisation are incorrect,” Ms Allan said. “Those documents that are referred to are internal working documents and do not reflect any government decision.” Ms Allan touted existing projects such as the Metro Tunnel, level crossing removals and track duplications as already benefitting commuters in the west. When asked if lines to Wyndham Vale and Melton, which are currently serviced by V/Line, would be electrified, she said it was important to complete projects in sequence.
“Each investment has to build on the one that comes before it and that’s what we’ve said all the way along.” Wyndham mayor Susan McIntyre expressed disappointment at the reported axing, noting the Western Rail Plan was an election commitment. “The plan, announced in 2018, promised increased services via the electrification and duplication of the Wyndham Vale and Melton lines, which the premier rightly described at the time as ‘a plan that will deliver the transformation that our state needs,” Cr McIntyre said.
“If the government walks away from their promise, those accessing train services in these areas will be jammed onto just four tracks between Sunshine and the city, limiting the ability to deliver new services for our residents.” Speculation about the Western Rail Plan’s future intensified following the state budget, where no money was allocated for Geelong Fast Rail, a project the government repeatedly said needed to be built first. A government spokesman said Geelong Fast Rail was subject to the federal government’s infrastructure review.
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By Cade Lucas