Around Altona 66

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ISSUE 66, OCTOBER 2013 Letterboxed to homes in Altona and Seaholme, with new distribution points in Altona North, Altona Meadows and Williamstown LIKE Around Altona on Facebook! Stay informed and view the paper online faster: www.facebook.com/AroundAltona

BEST IN THE WEST – CHESS TOURNAMENT

Highest rated U/12 year old in the world FM Anton Smirnov.

Over the weekend of 31 August & 1st September the annual ‘Best in the West’ chess tournament took place at the Louis Joel Community Centre, Altona.

arduous rounds or approximately 15 hours of deep thought.

Prizes were awarded to those who took the top 4 places and to those achieving a result well in excess of their ranking.

This event brought together 87 of Australia’s best senior and junior chess players as well as visiting Grandmaster and eventual winner, Hrant Melkumyan from Armenia.

Games were transmitted live across the internet and discussed at length on chat forums. This was, after all, the strongest and largest chess tournament ever held in Melbourne’s Western Suburbs!

Competitors battled each other for mental supremacy over 5

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PLEASE DO NOT DISCARD - Give this paper to a friend or neighbour to read.

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PUDDLING WITH THE PUBLISHER With our change of Government and the promise of a lift in business, particularly Small Business, dare we anticipate this and imagine, as we are small business that traffic will increase, leading to an increase in sales and a greater ability to pay the rent, even to the point of having something over!

Already we have had an increase in requests for advertising which has been very pleasing and will keep the paper free of charge to all our readers.

If you’re not receiving the paper regularly remember it costs us almost nothing to send it to you by email on the

first of the month automatically. It’s also available on our website and if you have friends or family overseas you can help them keep in touch – we would be happy to add them to our mailing list.

Rupert Murdoch is adamant that newspapers are declining in sales while Warren Buffet is equally keen on buying Community newspapers as he believes they have a great future. I’m pleased he shares our view that the printed copy will always be popular as long as it carries items of interest to readers and great local content.

Bill McPherson

RAMBLING WITH THE EDITOR I had the pleasure of attending the opening of the Art Exhibition by the Hobsons Bay Art Society at the Louis Joel Arts and Community Centre. It was a truly enjoyable experience as it normally is because they are blessed with so many truly talented artists. We will have a great article on this by Nella.

I must say, I was wrapped to see my name badge in the collection as my membership has lapsed, a very thoughtful and welcoming move (I need to sort that out). So my inspiration levels have kept growing from my previous visit to the Hobsons Bay Art Show and now this great art show, I have found myself doing some art which I thought I would share. So please find the rest of my space used up by a big gorilla.

Have a wonderful month!

Daniel Allen

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eateries along Pier St all helped add to an exciting atmosphere.

Chief organizer and junior coach Tony Davis said that 8 out of the top 30 players in Australia were competing. Top juniors taking part included Bobby Cheng, who at the beginning of 2013 as a 15 year old, became the youngest ever Australian Champion and Anton Smirnov, who is currently the highest ranked U/12 chess player in the world.

Generous sponsorship from Bendigo Bank helped cover the venue hire and upped the prize money from previous years.

Tournament organiser: Tony Davis, ‘Best in the West winner’: GM Hrant Melkumyan, Major Sponsor: John Dawson - Bendigo Bank manager Altona branch.

According to Altona Branch manager John Dawson, this support is set to continue. He witnessed first hand players from different age groups and backgrounds competing on the same level with plenty of family support.

Chess is undergoing a boom in Australia through the coaching of school children from a very young age. Concentration, planning and pattern recognition are important concepts learned from the game and are skills that are transferable to other areas of a child’s education.

From left to right: Australian Champion IM Bobby Cheng, IM James Morris, IM Max Illingworth, GM Hrant Melkumyan.

Hobsons Bay Chess Club President Steven Hogan and Treasurer Mark Salanowski were both pleased with the professionalism, sportsmanship and fighting spirit on display.

Perfect playing conditions, the weather and support from local

The ‘Best in the West’ was first held in 1982 and is part of the Australian Chess Grand Prix.

Tony Davis Hobsons Bay Chess Club https://sites.google.com/site/ hobsonsbayyarravillechessclub/home

In reference to photo captions, IM = International Master, GM = Grandmaster, FM = FIDE master.

TO ADVERTISE IN AROUND ALTONA COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER Contact

Will - M: 0449 834 359 E: will@aroundaltona.com.au

Daniel - M: 0408 659 940 E: aroundsell@gmail.com Issue 66

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HOMELESSNESS IS A REAL RISK Latitude: Directions for Young People is the local response for young people at risk of or experiencing homelessness. In a previous edition of Around Altona our fundraising/awareness campaign was raised. The Mayor and Deputy Mayor spent a night on the couch in the Civic Centre.

This event was a huge success and achieved our aim of raising the issue (and $’s!) of homelessness. If you have the opportunity, ask the Mayor and Deputy Mayor about their experience, it definitely had an impact! The experience of couch surfing is prevalent if not visible in our community. That’s the point really; not knowing just how many young people are moving between friends. This is the time when we need contact with them, so that they don’t require our services to find crisis accommodation or Transitional Housing. We need to make contact with them before their options run out.

There are things we can do to prevent a young person’s entry into homelessness; often there has been a breakdown in communication between the young person and their parent/ carer. Wherever possible we will attempt to mediate, establish some common agreements and provide a point of contact for the young person.

Once a young person disconnects from the family home it is most likely that they will disconnect from education as well.

When young people leave home it should be planned and

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supported, it’s a beginning, couch surfing is a beginning too; unfortunately it is the beginning of something that is very difficult to end; the experience of homelessness.

Homelessness impacts on a young person’s ability to participate, leads to poor self esteem, mental health issues, and financial issues as accessing crisis accommodation is very expensive, for sub standard accommodation. The cycle is very difficult to break, for a young person still developing; the experience of homelessness can be devastating.

Latitude thank the Altona Community for their continued support, it is vital to the health of the community to maintain a point of contact for young people in need. Latitude develops a range of programs to assist young people who have need for our ongoing service; these programs are designed to assist with reconnection to the community. I hope in future editions of Around Altona to discuss these further (promise!!).

If you have any concerns about a young person, ask them if everything is okay at home; pass on our number or Hobsons Bay Youth Services. Altona is a special place, a community that is inclusive, let’s keep it that way, ending homelessness is everyone’s responsibility.

Contact Latitude on 9315 0061 or Hobsons Bay Youth Services on 9932 4000.

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WYNDHAM SCOTTISH SOCIAL DANCE Invite you to come along and enjoy an evening of fun, laughter, exercise and make new friends. You will need soft shoes flat or with a small heel, no rubber ridged soles. You don’t need a partner.

We do Ceilidh which is a mixture of Waltz, Set and Barn dances.

We meet at Featherbrook Community Centre every 2nd and

4th Friday night. 33-35 Wyndorah Drive Point Cook 3030.

We are proudly sponsored by Bendigo Community Bank.

For information contact Deryck 0415250284 or Alison 0413295133

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A BLAST FROM THE PAST Those who were lucky enough to be by the coast at Point Cook beach on Thursday, 12th September, would have witnessed a truly magnificent glimpse into history.

Majestically sailing by the coastline, were the nine tall ships that had gathered in Williamstown’s historic seaport, for the Melbourne International Tall Ship Festival.

Event organizer, Tony Spencer said, “The Admiral in-port sailing day was the highlight of the week!”

The weather was a little questionable in the morning - as is always the case in Melbourne, but the wind picked up and the rain held off, making for perfect sailing conditions.

Another highlight for Mr. Spencer was the chance to interact with so many people, about something he feels so passionately about.

gathered again in this way – perhaps 2016, but there are no guarantees.

Unfortunately I missed out on the opportunity to board the ships, but I did manage to get my daughter and I onto one of Williamstown’s local ferries. Not wanting to miss a moment of the fireworks, we found ourselves out on the water and right underneath them. With the tall ships providing a beautiful backdrop, the night sky lit up and the look on my girl’s face was priceless - she was thrilled with the whole experience.

I would say the Festival was a massive success – and my daughter would definitely agree.

New friendships were made, with the event drawing visitors in numbers of up to 35,000 people. The Festival came to a close on the Friday night, culminating in a wonderful fireworks display.

Seeing the ships up close was fantastic! The Europa was my favorite – one of the oldest and largest in the fleet, and the detail in her structure was truly a sight to behold. In honor of the three tall ships that call The Netherlands home, there was a particular focus on the Dutch culture inside the Seaworks venue, with traditional dancers entertaining the crowds.

The ships are off to Hobart next, for a similar event awaiting their arrival, and then on to Sydney. Mr. Spencer thinks it may be a long while before we are lucky enough to see them

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Issue 66

Melissa Longo

THE HORN OF AFRICA – OPEN COMMUNICATION

People in the photo, from left to right: Terefe Aborete, Mohammed Isah, Jill Hennessy, Elleni Beredid, Greg Keane

Altona District MP, Jill Hennessy played host to a forum on Wednesday September 10th, designed to highlight the experiences and challenges faced by members of the Horn of Africa community, as they work towards assimilating into Australian society. All were welcomed as leaders of the African community shared their stories.

Ms. Hennessy discussed her expectations for the event, “There are a range of assumptions and myths that are often made about people from the Horn of Africa – I am really keen to debunk some of those myths.” By providing a space for communication, Ms. Hennessy hoped to link different members of the Point Cook public, “I’ve always been really impressed and humbled by the work that many of the Horn of Africa leaders are doing in our local community – I think it’s important people know about it.”

Kicking things off was Community Engagement Advisor and Coordinator at Victoria University, Elleni Beredid.

Not being able to return to her home in Ethiopia, Elleni and her family ended up in Australia, with a mattress and not much else. Despite their high education and qualifications, Elleni and her husband found themselves having to start from scratch in a foreign land.

Ms Hennessy believes in the benefits of engagement, “There’s (also) much to be learned from hearing about the experiences of different migrant communities in modern Australia and the unique challenges they face going about building their lives locally.” The sharing of stories can turn people into individuals and strangers into friends.

Getting to know someone begins with an action as simple as saying ‘Hello’. Ignorance can keep us all isolated and in this beautiful community, surely that is not what anybody wants.

Melissa Longo

Starting from scratch seemed to be a common thread for these refugees, but they were all grateful for the opportunity. Mohammed Isah, a young social worker, volunteer and candidate for the Wyndham Council, was also inspired and with his drive and willingness to pay for the help he had received in his 14 years in Australia, talked about what he believed to be the key to a smoother transition into Australian life, Mr Isah kept it simple, “Social Learning – Emotional Intelligence – Open Communication.”

With clear ideas about what their community needs, from first hand experience, these truly spirited members of our society are working to break down misconceptions and aid with what is needed. Mrs Beredid loves her culture, but equally loves her new home and considers herself very much Australian, “our diversity is our strength – it is not a weakness, it is not a problematic thing . . . multiculturalism is a big asset for this country.”

Greg Keane volunteers as a psychiatrist to people seeking asylum and his stories moved some in the room to tears.

What he encountered more than anything, was an overwhelming hope for a brighter future; “the people who come to our shores are resilient.”

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ALTONA CITY THEATRE TRIBUTE - A ROCK LEGENDS REVUE with a stellar cast of some of Melbourne’s best voices and performers. Join us as we leave on a jet plane, go to Rio, dream of California and bask in the April sun in Cuba.

ACT President Patt Ryan has this to say on the show. “Doing a concert style revue is a detour from our usual show choice at the company, but the production team and cast are working hard to create something more than your typical tribute show.

I believe they will create something really special.”

The music we grew up with, live on stage once more.

Do you remember Elvis’s blue suede shoes, Marilyn’s diamonds, Janis’ mercedes benz, Jimi’s star spangled banner, Dusty’s preacher man, Kurt’s teen spirit and Freddie’s crazy little thing?

These are the true rock legends, those whose stars shone brightest of all, and burned out before their time. Theirs was a journey from rock stardom to immortality.

Altona City Theatre are presenting an exciting new production of “Tribute – A Rock Legends Revue”, which pays homage to the legacy these artists have left for the music world. It is a celebration of the songs that form the soundtrack of our lives,

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“This show features artists and songs from the last 60 years.

From Buddy Holly to Amy Winehouse, and plenty in between, there is truly something for everyone in this production.”

Production manager Daniel Ortega also has the privilege of performing a tribute to John Belushi in the show. “If there’s a rock and roll heaven, they’ve got one hell of a band! This October, for a strictly limited season of just 5 shows, we’re bringing the legends back to life.”

‘Tribute – A Rock Legends Revue’ opens October 4 and runs for two weeks and is suitable for all ages. All ticket information can be found online at www.altonacitytheatre.com.au

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FREE LEGAL ADVICE @ WYNDHAM LEGAL SERVICE YOUTH AND THE LAW – ‘SEXTING’ AND CHILD PORNOGRAPHY Many young people are taking and sharing explicit photos of themselves and classmates on their devices and may think that this behaviour is perfectly normal. However, child pornography can be images of any person under the age of 18.

Being found guilty of a child pornography offence carries with it significant and potentially devastating penalties. An offender may be subject to criminal conviction, regular reporting obligations and will generally be placed on the sex offender registry for a substantial period of time.

The Wyndham area comprises a larger proportion of young people than the national average. Within the last year the WLS has been able to expand and now employs a full-time youth lawyer, who assists clients under the age of 25.

The youth lawyer, in partnership with Victoria Police has spent time holding Community Legal Education (“CLE”) seminars, meeting with numerous community youth organization’s and local schools. WLS offers CLE seminars to a variety of parent, student and youth groups.

Many of the recent CLE seminars have focused on the concerning area of child pornography offences. It is important that youth and parents are aware of the consequences of this area of law.

With the advances in technology that many young people now possess, including a phone, internet and camera in most of their pockets; together with the rising trend of ‘sexting’ and apps such as ‘snapchat’, young people may easily find themselves on the wrong side of the law.

Young people have already been prosecuted under this law and we urge all parents to take note of these implications.

For further information on requesting a CLE seminar or to obtain FREE legal advice, please contact the Wyndham Legal Service on 9741 0198.

Kind regards, Owen Wyndham Legal Service

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In Brief CALLING ALL SKATERS, BMX AND SCOOTER RIDERS 2013-14 Hobsons Bay Skate/BMX/Scooter series Various times during school holidays at Hobsons Bay skate parks Entries are now open for the 2013-14 Hobsons Bay Skate/BMX/Scooter Series. Enter one or more of the regular contests and earn series points. The top 10 point scorers in each division will earn an invite to the Grand Final.

The heats are on: • Wednesday, 2nd October at Newport Skate Park; • Wednesday, 15th January at Laverton Skate Park; and • Wednesday, 22nd January at Altona Meadows Skate Park.

Scooters will compete at 10.00am, 1.00pm for BMX and 3.00pm for skateboards. The Grand Final is on Wednesday, 16th April at Newport Skate Park.

There are four age categories – nine and under, 12 and under, 13 to 16 and open. All competitors must wear helmets when competing (helmets are not provided); All entrants under 18 must have a parent or guardian sign their entry form; Registrations close 30 minutes before each start time. Registrations are limited to the first 50 participants per age division.

The event staff reserve the right to refuse entry. All competitors should demonstrate good sportsmanship at all times, follow the direction of the event staff and respect all competitors, judges and spectators.

ORDINARY COUNCIL MEETING – 10TH SEPTEMBER 2013 WEDNESDAY, 11TH SEPTEMBER 2013 Victoria University partnership Hobsons Bay City Council will support Victoria University in developing a Community Integrated Learning Centre at Altona Meadows Library and Learning Centre. The project will increase local access to tertiary education and may include certificate courses through to diplomas, depending on the learning needs of the community. The Community Integrated Learning Centre will operate for three years under a memorandum of understanding.

Fire service levy update Hobsons Bay City Council will continue to monitor concerns and issues raised from residents and ratepayers for the new Fire Service Property Levy and report any inequities to the Department of Treasury and Finance.

For the first time, the fire services levy will be paid through Council rates notices from July 2013, as opposed to insurance premiums.

New bushfire prone areas Hobsons Bay City Council has noted the new Bushfire Prone Areas as set by the Department of Transport, Planning and Local Infrastructure. The new Bushfire Prone Areas have been applied to a small area of residential land in Laverton and Altona Meadows, the Truganina Explosives Reserve, industrial land within Altona including the Burns Road subdivision and Prixcar, the Altona North Grasslands and the land around Kororoit Creek Road and Maddox Road in Williamstown. Former areas along the Cheetham Wetlands, Skeleton Creek and Laverton Creek are no longer considered fire prone areas.

Noordenne Avenue crossing Traffic counts and community engagement were undertaken by the Council relating to the need for, and probable usage of, a pedestrian and cyclist crossing on Millers Road, near Noordenne Avenue, Altona. Millers Road is an arterial road, maintained by VicRoads and would require traffic lights to control pedestrians and cyclists crossing the road. The traffic and pedestrian counts taken by the Council did not meet the VicRoads criteria for traffic lights and therefore would not attract funding for installation at this time.

Right of way Hobsons Bay City Council has amended its Right of Way – Unmade Laneways policy to include minor repairs and maintenance. The changes will provide for weed spraying, rubbish removal and minor repairs and maintenance to the surface of unmade laneways. The Council has provided $100,000 in the 2013-14 budget to undertake minor works and maintenance on the municipality’s laneways.

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PARAPROSDAKIANS Paraprosdakians are figures of speech in which the latter part of a sentence or phrase is surprising or unexpected; frequently humorous. Winston Churchill loved them.

1. Where there’s a will, I want to be in it.

9. I didn’t say it was your fault, I said I was blaming you.

10. In filling out an application, where it says, ‘In case of emergency, Notify:’ I put ‘DOCTOR’.

2. The last thing I want to do is hurt you. But it’s still on my list.

11. Women will never be equal to men until they can walk down the street with a bald head and a beer gut, and still think they are sexy.

3. Since light travels faster than sound, some people appear bright until you hear them speak.

12. You do not need a parachute to skydive. You only need a parachute to skydive twice.

4. If I agreed with you, we’d both be wrong.

13. I used to be indecisive. Now I’m not so sure..

5. We never really grow up, we only learn how to act in public.

14. To be sure of hitting the target, shoot first and call whatever you hit the target.

6. War does not determine who is right - only who is left.

7. Knowledge is knowing a tomato is a fruit.. Wisdom is not putting it in a fruit salad.

8. To steal ideas from one person is plagiarism. To steal from many is research.

15. Going to church doesn’t make you a Christian any more than standing in a garage makes you a car.

16. You’re never too old to learn something stupid.

17. I’m supposed to respect my elders, but it’s getting harder and harder for me to find one now.

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Notices HOBSONS BAY LIFE ACTIVITIES CLUB If you’re 50+ and enjoy Movies, Dining Out, BBQ’s, Hikes etc then we’re just what you’re looking for.

Meet new people, make new friends, and join like minded people in a variety of activities, both week days and weekends.

Try us out by attending a couple of functions of your choice, with no obligation, before you decide.

For more information and a copy of our Club Newsletter please contact: Alicia: 9741-4313 or Myra: 0432 258 804

ALTONA NORTH COMBINED PROBUS CLUB: Retired or semi-retired?

Interested in developing new friends, or interests. Join our friendly group at the Community Hall, Cypress Av., Brooklyn -10.00am on 3rd Wednesday of each month. Guest speakers, trips and other activities are organised. Enquiries: Lois 9399 2554 or Pam 9314 4640

ADAVIC ANXIETY & DEPRESSION SUPPORT GROUP Connect with others in a safe environment to share experiences and coping strategies.

Every Tuesday 7:30-9:30pm at the Louis Joel Arts & Community Centre, Sargood St, Altona.

THE ALTONA LIFE SAVING CLUB The Altona LSC will be holding their information day on Sunday 13th October from 11.30-1.30pm.

You will already know if you are a fit for this position, you will love sales (talking to people), you are a self We invite all that are interested starter (know what you are in becoming a member to come doing), you thrive on along. success (you are good and you For more information please know it). log onto www.altonalsc.com.au Work local at times to suit you, it does not get better that this.

If you can sell yourself, you’ve got the opportunity, just email your CV to will@aroundaltona.

The Laverton Community Cafe operates com.au from The Altona Meadows Community Centre 28 Trafalgar Avenue, Altona Meadows.

Why not come along and enjoy a THE LOUIS JOEL nutritional 3 course meal and at the COMMUNITY CENTRE same time meet someone new in your Community. Operates: Every Friday 12.00 -1.00pm $8.00 is looking for wool donations. /$5.00(Conc.)

We give out the wool to Bookings by Thursday essential women in the community 9369 4866 who knit amazing items such as jumpers, scarfs, beanies, booties and hats for premature babies all for charity.

COMMUNITY CAFÉ

WILLIAMSTOWN FILMS screen at the Mechanics Institute on the corner of Melbourne Road and Electra St Williamstown at 7.30 pm on the last Wednesday of the month .

We screen old and more recent films, use a dvd/video projector, and have a very large screen. Memberships are available at $10 for 3 consecutive months, or $30 /45 (for 2 at the same address ) 10 month annual membership. For further information including the 2013 program, contact 9397 6000.

$5 Casuals / $3 Members For more info phone: (03) 9853-8089 | email: adavic@adavic.org.au | visit: www.adavic.org.au

THE ALTONA FRUIT AND VEGIE SWAP Takes place on the second Saturday of every month from 10:30am to 11:30am at the Rotunda in Logan Reserve PierStreet, Altona.

VOLUNTEER COOK

Required by Laverton Community Café To prepare meals every Wednesday for approx 5 hours.

For more details please phone Ellen 8368 0172 Laverton Community Centre (Located in new Community Hub) 95-105 Railway St, Laverton

BIOGIG Are you interested in humanism; flora and fauna, natural food and performing arts in a setting of education and entertainment.

Enquiries: phone 9398 6043 or email platypus111@bigpond.com 12

ADVERTISING SALES REPRESENTATIVE REQUIRED

Issue 66

Altona Kids

Spoodle Australian caĆŠledog Kelpie Shepherd dog Border collie Border terrier Boxer Bulldog Chihuahua Daschund DalmaĆ&#x;on Cocker spaniel Foxhound Great Dane Greyhound Jack Russell terroir Labrador retriever Pinscher Schnauzer Pug

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POMEGRANATE

Altona Gardens

PUNICA GRANATUM

Mentioned in many ancient texts, the Pomegranate, Punica granatum, is thought to have originated in the Middle East, most likely Persia (now Iran) where it has been cultivated since ancient times. Today, its popularity has spread throughout the

It is a small deciduous shrub or small tree that grows from five to eight metres in height. The attractive flowers are bright red with, usually, four to five petals. Flowering is followed by thick skinned, rounded-hexagonal shaped fruit (technically a berry). Depending on the variety, the fruit is approximately the same size as an orange or a grapefruit. Split a fruit open and you will discover it is chock-a-block full of edible deep red, purple or white seeds that are surrounded by a watery pulp and embedded in a white, astringent, membrane. Typically, the fruit is ripe and ready to eat in autumn.

As the juice can stain your clothes, eating a delicious pomegranate can be a messy business. However, the seeds are bursting with flavour, and have long been used in cooking and baking, in juices and in alcoholic beverages.

Botanical artists love painting pomegranates! The fruit could be mistaken for a Christmas tree decoration ... then, when you split it open to reveal the clusters of glistening seeds, you will immediately understand why we find it irresistible.

entire Mediterranean region, and it has also been introduced into other areas of the world where the climate is similar. It will grow in Melbourne where I have seen it flourishing, and fruiting prolifically, in gardens not far from my home in Altona.

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My illustrations shows two fruit – one just beginning to split open to show the mouth-watering delicious-ness inside.

Issue 66

Helene Wild helene.wild@optusnet.com.au

JILL HENNESSY, MEMBER FOR ALTONA DISTRICT, ALONG WITH ORYGEN AND HEADSPACE, WILL HOST A YOUTH HEALTH AND WELLBEING FORUM IN OCTOBER. All members of the community are invited to a forum being held on Wednesday the 9th of October 2013 organised by State Member for Altona, Jill Hennessy.

you can support the young person in your life to grow and develop their independence”.

Ms Hennessy has teamed up with Orygen Youth Health and Headspace to lead a discussion on the subject of youth health and wellbeing.

“Join us for a panel discussion about young people and mental health”.

Joining Jill Hennessy MP on the night will be clinicians from Headspace and Orygen Youth Health along with a Parent Peer Support Worker who will reflect on their journey as a parent to a young person with mental health issues.

Date: 9 October 2013 Time: 7pm start (expected to run for approximately an hour) Location: Louis Joel Arts & Community Centre - 5 Sargood Street Altona 3018

“As young people confront an ever changing set of challenges on their journey to adulthood, it is important that we continue to learn how to support them,” Ms Hennessy said.

Please RSVP to Daniel Allen via email: daniel.allen@parliament.vic.gov.au or by calling: (03) 9395 0221

“Parents often have questions about what is part of normal adolescence and how

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A DOG IN ONE PACKJACK RUSSELL TERRIER

Pet Section We basically want to find companions who would give us most of the benefits we think we need. Well, if you are looking for a dog that is somewhat a one-in-package pal, you might find Jack Russell Terriers interesting enough.

This dog has a history that is somehow loomed to give rise to the specie.

It was said that the breeder of this dog, a young Theologian student of Oxford University named John Russell once met a milkman with a white terrier that has spots on his eyes and ears. This dog became his interest which later proved to be his foundation for breeding a new dog breed that many has learned to love as pets. The dog he first saw was named “Trump” from which another 60 types of terriers were later bred from.

They do not appear vicious though. But once they smell threat, they can show off aggressiveness that could serve as warning towards the strangers. However, once the stranger is let into the house by the owner, a Jack Russell can already tolerate his or her presence.

This terrier is also a family dog and desires for human companionship. And their love for children is significantly interesting. However, once they are abused or had been shown improper treatments, may it be intentional or accidental, they can react through aggressive behaviors.

Their aggressiveness is further manifested with their lack of fear towards larger dogs which can unfortunately lead to injuries, some can even be fatal.

With a terrier’s basic nature to go on and over the ground (terrier by the way came from the Latin term “terra” which means earth), Jack Russell terriers also have the disposition to hunt and scour for hunting. Thus, they should be given enough grooming so as to set off the dirt they gather from digging soil to either bury a treasure or to recover a hidden treasure kept long ago.

An excellent ratter, Jack Russell Terriers prove to be good “housekeepers” since they keep most rats away from home.

Any unlucky rat that happens to be inside the quarters of this terrier is sure to meet its instant doom. Thus, owners find themselves with both a dog and cat in one pal.

One basic character of this dog is its disposition towards strangers. They can easily figure out who must be kept away from their homes and who can be accepted inside the house. This very attitude also makes them good watchdogs.

They were designed specifically to be aggressive on preys.

And while they can be very vocal, many of them only bark when they find good reason to.

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They are also marked for their intelligence and good spirit. These characteristics can be highly observable through their curiosity in things. Thus, they require supplementation on formal training unless you can tolerate difficult behaviors. The good thing though with a Jack Russell is that it can acknowledge training and do well in most of them. In fact, they are known to champion various ring shows and other similar competitions.

Hollywood has recognised the disposition of these dogs too. Coupled with feisty and good physical characteristics, this pal has already made names in the screens. If Wishbone, Milo (from The Mask) and Eddie (from the Frasier) ring the bell on you then there is no doubt that you can recognise this dog.

Jack Russell terriers fair well with grooming. A dog of relatively small size, this breed will not tax you with grooming needs.

Anonymous

Issue 66

METRO REWARDED FOR IGNORING ALTONA LOOP PASSENGERS New data released last month show trains on the Werribee line are bypassing the Altona Loop adding further evidence that train services are worsening under the Napthine Government, State Member for Altona District, Jill Hennessy said today.

Ms Hennessy said Public Transport Victoria’s quarterly service report covering the period April to June 2013, showed more than 1200 train services had bypassed the City and Altona Loop – nearly double the previous reporting period.

“The Public Transport Victoria report confirms that trains on the Werribee line bypassed the Altona Loop 98 times.

“This performance data confirms what every Altona Loop commuter already knows. Altona Loop commuters have been hung out to dry by the Napthine Government,” Ms Hennessy said.

“To add insult to injury the Napthine Government have paid Metro a performance bonus payment.

“This is outrageous considering the neglect and contempt that has been meted out to Altona Loop commuters.

The Napthine Government also want to spend 8 billion dollars on a tunnel that will do nothing to assist commuters or drivers

from the West.

“The Melbourne Metropolitan Rail Tunnel Project, so critical to improving the capacity of our train services, has been left gathering dust on the shelf,” Ms Hennessy said.

“Let’s not forget, that the Napthine Government have also cut important bus services to local communities. This is having a devastating impact on the Laverton community and local business.

“Commuters have a right to be upset at Transport Minister Terry Mulder’s claims in 2011 that he had ‘fixed’ Victoria’s transport system when the reality is it is getting worse.

Ms Hennessy said any improvement to the train network would be years away under the Napthine Government.

“What we know from Metro Trains operation plans is that Victoria needs 47 new trains in operation by 2017, but what the Liberal’s plan says is that we will have 33 trains sometime in the future, well beyond 2023.

“The hypocrisy and neglect of the Napthine Government appears to have no bounds,” Ms Hennessy said.

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DO YOU HAVE A ‘SPANNER IN THE WORKS?’ Men of Hobsons Bay and Wyndham are encouraged to drop in and have their health checked at the Hobsons Bay Men’s Shed between 11:30am and 4pm on Thursday, 10 October 2013.

South Western Melbourne Medicare Local (SWMML), in partnership with the Australian Men’s Shed Association, is conducting free health checks for local men through the program ‘Spanner in the Works?’

‘Spanner in the Works?’ is designed to remind men that, like their cars, they too need a regular service. The day provides men of all ages the opportunity to drop in and “have their engine checked” free of charge.

Health pit stops include oil pressure (blood pressure), chassis (weight and diet) and the doof doof sound system (hearing).

A free lunch will be provided for all attendees and there will also be an opportunity to speak with people from leading health organisations including the Heart Foundation, Cancer Council and Quit.

Earlier in the year, SWMML conducted a community survey and identified a range of health concerns among men in Hobsons Bay, including drinking, smoking, obesity and diabetes.

an active mind and body.

‘Spanner in the Works?’ is open to men of all ages. Although the program was developed for men, women are welcome to attend and have a free health check.

The Hobsons Bay Men’s Shed is located at 280 Queen Street, Altona.

About South Western Melbourne Medicare Local (SWMML) South Western Melbourne Medicare Local (SWMML) is a not for profit organisation working with the local community to improve the health of people in the areas of Wyndham and Hobsons Bay. We make it easier to navigate the local health care system by addressing health care gaps in the region, supporting local primary health care providers and connecting people with health experts and the information they need.

For media inquiries: Lauren Andrews Marketing and Communications Lead Mobile: 0481 154 413

SWMML Chief Executive Officer Gaylene Coulton said it was a key priority to improve understanding of good health among hard to reach groups in Hobsons Bay and Wyndham, which included men of all ages.

“Statistics indicate that 70 per cent of male residents in Hobsons Bay are overweight or obese and almost 45 per cent of males drink alcohol at levels that put their health either at risk or at high risk, in the short term,” Ms Coulton said.

‘Spanner in the Works?’ plays upon the idea that men often pay more attention to the health of their vehicles more than their own health.

According to Ms Coulton the main objective of ‘Spanner in the Works?’ is to create an atmosphere in which men could come along for a health check and feel comfortable.

“Through this event, we aim to reach out to men and encourage them to talk about their health as well as giving them an opportunity to learn more about health and wellbeing,” Ms Coulton said.

Many men remain reluctant to talk about their health and too often delay or avoid going to see a GP to get any potential problems checked out – an attitude that heavily contributes to the fact that men die on average five years earlier than women.

‘Spanner in the Works?’ coincides with The Victorian Seniors Festival, an annual October event encouraging seniors to keep

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Issue 66

RUOK? We are like in nature, a combination of seasons in any one moment.

RUOK day is a non-for-profit initiative encouraging discussion around well-being. The initiative calls on people have meaningful conversations with open questions such as, “Are you okay”.

Mental health issues affect one in five Australians but these are only figures based on official figures. If you take into account the number of people who don’t approach a GP when they ‘don’t feel quite right in themselves’, the figures would be much higher.

Gavin Larkin founded the initiative in 2009, in memory of his father who committed suicide in 1995.

“Getting connected and staying connected is the best thing any of us can do both for ourselves and for anybody who may be at risk”, he said in an interview on the foundation’s website, www. ruokday.com “It’s not just about those at risk,” Gavin adds. “We want everybody in Australia right across the spectrum of society to just reach out to the people in their lives that they care about and essentially let them know that they do care by asking, ‘are you okay’.”

At a recent RUOK event held at WorkSafe Victoria, speaker Sam Arnold highlighted that for a person struggling with a mental illness, the scariest thing is not the illness or the medication but rather the reactions of loved ones and the trepidation of telling friends that you have a condition.

Ms Arnold also highlighted that conversations around mental health not only help the person suffering an illness but it can

It can be easy to feel isolated even in a crowd

Relay For Life POINT COOK

Featherbrook Oval (Behind “The Brook on Sneydes”)

16th & 17th November 2013 4pm - 10am Live Entertainment & Food Childrens Activities Miss Relay & Relay Idol Competitions Survivors and Carers Afternoon Tea

REGISTER TODAY!!

We are like in nature, a combination of seasons in any one moment.

change society’s perspective and prejudices towards mental illness.

Everyone has a story. You can work beside a person for years without knowing some of the most basic things about their life.

Why not give asking this small but significant question a try and see what happens?

Petronella Boonen

Support is out there when you need it: Lifeline 13 11 Suicide Call Back Service 1300 659 Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800 National Hope Line (Salvation Army) 1300 467

www.relayforlife.org.au Point Cook Relay For Life

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AUSTRALIA, THE LUCKY COUNTRY HAS THE HIGHEST RATE OF YOUTH SUICIDE IN THE WORLD There’s Hope is a cd recorded to heighten people’s awareness of mental health problems that exist in Australia. According to Statistics 1 in 4 young people between the age of 12 &25 suffer from some form of mental illness/Depression. With over 300 associated deaths each year 100% of the proceeds of the sale of this cd are going to headspace.

Headspace is an organisation which provides mental health and wellbeing support, information and services to young people aged 12 to 25 across Australia.

ON SALE NOW. COST $10 for more information phone Ralph 0414680175 To those who suffer from mental health problems.

Always remember. “There’s hope.”

Finding it hard to find work and need some help finding your way to employment

Connecting Young People to Real Jobs Youth Transitions Program Are You x x x x x

15-24 years of age?

Living in Hobsons Bay, Wyndham or Maribyrnong?

Finished school, or thinking about it?

Looking for work?

Unsure where to start or where to go?

Do You x

x

x x

Want to develop your work skills and get ready for future employment?

Want to develop your communication skills for the workplace, while enhancing your confidence and employment options?

Want to get back into study and aren’t sure how?

Want to gain an accredited qualification?

The Brotherhood of St Laurence is offering an 8 week training program, delivered over 4 days a week, including two weeks work placement to help young people get ready to join the workforce.

The program will offer you: x x x x x

When: 7th October What: Certificate II in General Education for Adults (21773VIC) Where: Laverton Community Hub, 95—105 Railway Avenue, Laverton Cost: Free For further information contact: Anne on 8368 0140 Nicola on 8368 0141 Email: youthemployment@bsl.org.au

Career Guidance Apprenticeship, Traineeship or work preparation Job Search Training Work Placement Connections with actual employers What do I need to Know?

There are no formal pre-requisites. There are no limitations to entry based on age, gender, physical ability, social and educational background.

Do I Qualify for Funding?

This training is delivered with Victorian & Commonwealth Government funding. Eligibility criteria applies.

TOID: 0113

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Issue 66

COULD THIS REALLY HAPPEN Recently I went through the local takeaway driveway window and I gave the cashier a $5 note.

Our total was $4.25, so I also handed her 25c.

She said, ‘you gave me too much money.’

I said, ‘Yes I know, but this way you can just give me a dollar coin back.’

She sighed and went to get the manager who asked me to repeat my request.

I did so, and he handed me back the 25c, and said ‘We’re sorry but we don’t do that kind of thing.’

The cashier then proceeded to give me back 75 cents in change.

We had to have the garage door repaired.

The repairman told us that one of our problems was that we did not have a ‘large’ enough motor on the opener.

I thought for a minute, and said that we had the largest one made at that time, a 1/2 horsepower..

He shook his head and said, ‘You need a 1/4 horsepower.’

I responded that 1/2 was larger than 1/4 and he said, ‘NOOO, it’s not. Four is larger than two.’

I live in a semi rural area.

We recently had a new neighbour call the local council to request the removal of the WOMBAT CROSSING sign on our road.

The reason: ‘Too many wombats are being hit by cars out here! I don’t think this is a good place for them to be crossing anymore!

My daughter went to a Mexican takeaway and ordered a taco.

She asked the person behind the counter for ‘minimal lettuce.’

He said he was sorry, but they only had iceberg lettuce.

I was at the airport, checking in at the gate when an airport employee asked, ‘Has anyone put anything in your baggage without your knowledge?’

To which I replied, ‘If it was without my knowledge, how would I know?’

He smiled knowingly and nodded, ‘That’s why we ask.’

The pedestrian light on the corner beeps when it’s safe to cross the street.

I was crossing with an ‘intellectually challenged’ co-worker of mine.

She asked if I knew what the beeper was for.

I explained that it signals blind people when the light is red.

Appalled, she responded, ‘What on earth are blind people doing driving?!’

When my husband and I arrived at a car dealership to pick up our car after a service, we were told the keys had been locked in it.

We went to the service department and found a mechanic working feverishly to unlock the driver’s side door.

As I watched from the passenger side, I instinctively tried the door handle and discovered that it was unlocked.

‘Hey,’ I announced to the technician, ‘it’s open!’

His reply, ‘I know. I already did that side.’

BOB Bob came over the bridge in a bucket.

He seemed to enjoy the ride although he didn’t say because he didn’t know about his luck that day.

We were moving and Bob was an issue unresolved, Should we take him or have him ‘dissolved’?

But in the end we were too soft to leave him on the other side Hence the ute and his interesting ride.

He now resides in a temporary home, A really nice spot with some shade and some sun, Down on the ground just under the satellite dish And of course you’ve guessed – Bob’s a travelling fish!

Anonymous

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ALTONA BAY I was strolling along the esplanade That fronts Altona Bay; Spring is the season for promenade; This was a glorious November day.

The air was so fresh and clean; The sky above azure blue; In a park nearby the grass was green; I paused to admire the view.

The sea was calm and sparkling; Many sea birds flew above; Container ships in the roads were waiting; My heart was filled with love.

They’d come from lands where I’d never been, Their precious cargoes to discharge; Now they were the focus of the scene; Even at a distance they seemed so large.

Clouds were piled all cottony white Atop the Melbourne city skyline; I wondered how it would look at night, But for now it looked just fine.

JACK’S BOOK OF POEMS Our Poet Laureate, Jack Nystrom, has written more than 800 poems during the past five or so years. These are based on his life experience, his views about what life is about, and on Man’s place in the Universe. Now in his eightieth year, Jack has had much to write about. He also possesses a fertile imagination from which he has produced a number of entertaining stories narrated in verse.

Jack says he is driven to write poetry by a most demanding Muse who frequently wakes him in the middle of the night.

She will keep him hard at it composing verse, often until after break of day.

Over 400 of his poems are being published in a book. This will cover many different themes organised under chapter headings. Some of these will already be familiar to readers as his poetry has been appearing each month in this newspaper.

Publication is scheduled so that you can use this book as a low cost Christmas gift. It will be available as a downloadable file from the Internet at $9.95. It will also be available in a gift packaged DVD form.

You can prepay $9.95 and have the email automatically sent to your email address or direct to your gift recipient at a date chosen by you.

It is intended that the printed book will also be available before Christmas. The site to see the cover and chapter headings, together with a selection of the poems is:

www.nittygrittybusiness.com/jacksbookofpoems

As I continued my perambulation, A panorama unfolded before me: God and Man’s works in juxtaposition; A canvas should seize this for all to see.

The buildings that lined the shore Had a beauty which challenged Nature: Profusion of geometric shapes galore; To me an elaborate sculpture.

Altona Pier hove into view, Another manmade creation; It seemed to signal to each ship’s crew: “You are welcome to our nation!”

Moved by the beauty spread out before me: Standing on the edge of the Southern Ocean, I was as joyful as I could be.

A seascape painting I’d envisage,

By Constable or one of such fame; Perhaps a fine photographic image To preserve this scene in a frame.

But how could one capture this wide vista?

A triptych immediately came to mind; I could only attempt a word picture For my thoughts of the moment to unwind.

The sun was warm upon my skin As God and Man’s works filled my eye; Suddenly I felt as washed of sin, Thinking this is a day that I could die.

Jack Nystrom, Altona Meadows, Victoria, Tuesday, 9 November, 2010

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Issue 66

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Issue 66

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Issue 66