Around Altona 83

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ISSUE 83, MAY 2015 Distributed throughout Altona with distribution points in Altona North, Seaholme, Altona Meadows and Williamstown LIKE Around Altona on Facebook! Stay informed and view the paper online faster: www.facebook.com/AroundAltona SUSTAINABILITY MESSAGE TREES SPEAK VOLUMES PAGE 4

COMMUNITY ART CHALLENGES RACISM PAGE 6

ALTONA LIBRARY CELEBRATING 50 YEARS 1965 - 2015 PAGE 8

ALTONA CIVIC OBEDIENCE DOG CLUB TO REPRESENT ALTONA IN FLYBALL The Altona Civic Obedience Dog Club is happy to announce their brand new flyball team, the Altona Arrows, will compete in their first competition next month.

Flyball is a sport dogs and their owners can enjoy together and is a fast-paced team sport with four dogs on each team. Flyball involves the dogs jumping over small hurdles to fetch a tennis ball and return it to their owner in the fastest time possible.

Dogs playing flyball will be in close contact with one another as well as being close to other people, so it is essential that your dog is friendly around both people and other dogs before signing up to play flyball.

Obedience club member Sammy Brown is delighted to have a flyball team ready to represent Altona across Victoria and is always ready to welcome new members to the Altona Arrows team.

The Altona Civic Obedience Dog Club invited flyball teams from around Victoria to take part in a training day to help them gain some more experience before the competition next month. Teams from Frankston, Ballarat and Berwick gathered at the clubs training grounds in Altona on Sunday the 22nd of March for a friendly round of flyball games.

“As long as your dog is sociable and likes tennis balls you can play flyball,” said Brown who participates in the sport with her dog, Lewie.

Altona Civic Obedience Dog Club president Bill Gilmour encourages people to come and join in the flyball fun.

“Anyone can come along on a Sunday morning from 9am and watch or join in; we welcome dogs of any size or breed,” said Gilmour.

For more information please visit their website on http://www.altonadogobedience.org.au/

You can watch the dogs from Altona Civic Obedience Dog Club train at their training grounds off Fresno Street in Altona on Sunday mornings between 9 and 11am.

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

By Melissa Haber

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PUDDLING WITH THE PUBLISHER Last month I had the pleasure, twice, of seeing a display of ‘Light Painting’, by the Future Creation Workshop, a group of Gen Y young people supported by the Hobsons Bay Mens Shed and Hobsons Bay City council, who together with their Leader, Gordon Lescinsky and his wonderful group of supporters who have developed a range of activities to increase their skills and demonstrate these skills to prospective employers.

It is important to note that school students today all come to employers with having used a lap top at school and have become proficient in the use of computing programs and of course can perform magic with smart phones unlike many of our older Generations who have been bypassed by modern technology. You can have one of these technicians in your office now.

Back to the light show!

Last night the presentation was totally different demonstrating that control was completely in the hands of the artist and the programmer- It was bursting with colour and rapidly changing.

I’m sure we will see more of these light – paintings and although expensive I’m confident they will progress to a library of downloadable paintings as part of your home entertainment package.

To see a video of the beauty in action visit the website, tcw.org.au and be prepared to be surprised!

0 I’d like to advise those who may not have heard of the passing of a very good friend to those who knew him, Max Kidd, who leaves behind wife Margaret, his family, and the hundreds of us in the west who knew of his good works his happy greeting, and his warm hand. Miss you Max

The presentation was magnificent; the previous demo I had seen was quiet, not heavy in colour and with a slow moving motion that was very calming in telling its story to the viewer.

Bill McPherson billmcpherson@optusnet.co.au

RAMBLING WITH THE EDITOR Another month ticks by and being ANZAC day yesterday I can’t help but think of our past troops and our current troops, that have spent their lives, and continue to put their lives at risk, so that we can have the freedom we now enjoy in Australia.

An excellent book I would recommend you reading is The Great War. I read this some time ago, but it illustrated the terrifying reality that war is. It also highlighted the impact that ego and politics has on the lives of our soldiers.

So many people who have walked into hell and not returned, or even have returned only to live this hell over and over again at home. Thank you for your gift.

collection this month.

Sad news is the passing of one of my friends who many in the community knew, Max Kidd. A teacher, a community spirit, a lovely gentleman. My condolences to to Margaret and family for their loss (our loss) of this wonderful man.

His work in the community was far and wide, ranging from politics, to fighting Macular Degeneration on a state wide level. I am now off to say goodbye to Max. Thank you for your ongoing submissions and support.

Spread the word, share the paper around, in hard copy and on social media.

The articles have been flowing in, and we have a great

0408 659 940 or aroundsell@gmail.com

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Issue 83

Regards Daniel Allen

ENGAGING IN ART: A LOOK AT “ART IN PUBLIC PLACES”

What a fantastic day to be out and about at the Williamstown Botanic Gardens for the launch of the Art in Public Places on 29 March 2015. The gardens provide a perfect venue and backdrop to a number of artworks, paintings or drawings that have been paraded along the entrance of the garden for the viewing public to enjoy.

I don’t consider myself an art connoisseur but my close investigation of each piece on display made me appreciate how these local artists capture their subjects with their chosen media. Some use oils or watercolours to paint with whether it is the local beach or a different point of interest, such as the gardens itself, or another landmark.

culture. On the day there were other interesting things happening such as voting for the most popular pieces in the “People’s Choice Award”; the performance of the local based performance company Born in a Taxi; exhibitions by local art groups, and a place to relax while having a cuppa.

Art in Public Spaces is a celebration of arts through exhibitions and different events all throughout the Hobsons Bay area during April. 150 artists in over 80 venues participate.

For more information about what events are happening in your area, check out: artinpublicplaces.com.au or www.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au

I can see the passion of these artists in self-expression and in their desire to promote art as part of the Australian

Mimi Laurilla

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

Daniel - M: 0408 659 940 E: aroundsell@gmail.com Issue 83

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SUSTAINABILITY MESSAGE TREES SPEAK VOLUMES to the survival of humanity - our planet. Jodi Kenny, a teacher from Altona Primary School, says, “When students from all ages get to contribute to an exhibition, I believe it can only have a positive impact.”

2000 primary school children participated in a collaborative Art in Public Places exhibition to promote sustainability. Five message trees are currently erected outside the Louis Joel Community Centre complete with leaves decorated by children from five primary schools within Hobsons Bay; Seaholme PS, Williamstown North PS, St Mary’s PS, Altona North PS and Altona PS. The leaves are individually embellished with artwork, handwritten phrases or both. Each leaf uniquely articulates the point of view of the artist. Some leaves hold rather profound messages, like ‘small acts transform the world,’ whereas others share personal pleas to protect animals, trees, or more specifically, the yellow-bellied pigeon. Several reinforce tried and tested messages to be proactive in our efforts to ‘reduce, reuse, recycle’ or ‘save water.’

“It was amazing to read some of the leaves and see the insight that young people have on the world,” said Robert who works at the Community Centre. Essentially, the collective message about how the earth’s future is impacted by the choices, decisions and actions we take today is strong and clear. For the innocent it seems; why wouldn’t you protect something so precious and integral

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to fruition.

During the launch, a group of grade 2 students participated in activities to further reinforce the importance of recycling.

They were given an activity bag made out of newspaper before being shown how to turn a 1.5ltr plastic bottle into a soap dish.

Each child then planted a seed in a newspaper pot to take home.

Perhaps the dream of one child whose leaf read, “Don’t cut down trees because tree’s roots help to keep the soil together and not blow away,” will eventually come

Particularly when some of today’s young green-thumbs have already embraced the responsibility to nurture, water, nourish, and keep their plants alive. “The students loved the activities and we have a student who has used the plants to make a garden outside our classroom,” says Jodi. People are invited to peruse the leaves on the Sustainability Message Trees, which will be exhibited until May 10.

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Kyla-Jayne Rajah

IT’S MORE THAN JUST A GARDENING SERVICE… Eileen Hampson of Altona is one very happy customer.

Eileen now 95, is one of Hobsons Bay’s elderly residents receiving basic lawn and garden care from the City Council. She used to be very active in her younger years serving the community as a happy President of several Bowling Clubs in the Western suburbs of Melbourne. Prior to her retirement she was an energetic teacher. She also loved going out with her husband before he passed away.

However, her age and mobility issues now make it difficult for her to tend to her medium-sized backyard. This is where she appreciates the help in terms of tidying up the surroundings of her property.

This collaboration between David House and the Hobson’s Bay City Council Community Care Services has been running for a little over a year now. And so far everything has worked out perfectly. David House garden teams are happy to be out and about, and the garden clients are getting the lawn and garden service that they require.

It is really a win-win for all parties involved, which only shows that this is more than just a garden service, when the spirit of community is involved.

Mimi Laurilla

Her gardeners are composed of a team of passionate individuals from Annecto David House. David House based in Yarraville, is a learning hub that offers a cross section of activities and courses, designed to assist people with disability get involved in their community and to increase learning and independence. One such activity is the gardening program enabling them to get outdoors, develop skills in gardening and indirectly keeping them healthy and fit in the process.

The gardening service is done on a monthly basis. Eileen is very impressed with the way the team does the job. “I can see that they have teamwork, they are very competent, enthusiastic and they are happy working,” observes Eileen. Eileen also appreciates the monthly visit from the team, offering her a little bit of company at the end of the job. Eileen adds, “The least that I can offer them are some light snacks after working hard.”

In photo are Make Lakatani (volunteer gardening team admin assistant from annecto David House) and Eileen Hampson showing off the recently mowed lawn by the David House garden crew.

VALE MAX KIDD OAM Altona has lost one of its champions.

John Maxwell (Max) Kidd was a pillar of our community and much loved member of our Labor family.

Locals may recall Max as a teacher, a keen golfer, and a passionate advocate for Altona.

Through his membership of the Altona Loop Group and the Altona Complex Neighbourhood Consultative Group – among many other local organisations he was involved in – Max spent his life working to improve services and support for the people of Altona.

He was a champion of better education for the young people of Melbourne’s West.

Awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia in 1999 for service to the community, particularly youth, and to rugby union football, Max will undoubtedly be remembered fondly by all who knew him.

I’m certain many Labor members will join me in celebrating Max’s contribution to our party, and his commitment to values of social justice and democracy.

Max was a renaissance man. A great story teller. A wonderful friend to all. I will miss his friendship and support.

Max lived life as it should be lived – in service of others.

He was a true believer, and I will miss his passion and energy.

I send my sincere condolences to Margaret, Judith and all of Max’s family.

The funeral will be held this Sunday 26 April at 1.30pm, at St Michael’s Uniting Church (cnr Collins and Russell St Melbourne).

The service will be followed by refreshments at the Power House Rugby Club in Albert Park.

Max’s family has requested donations are made to the Altona Macular Degeneration and Low Vision Support Group, in lieu of flowers.

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Hon. Jill Hennessy, Member for Altona

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COMMUNITY ART CHALLENGES RACISM

Two weeks into our move from New Zealand to Victoria, my husband and I encountered a verbal attack directed at the colour of my husband’s skin colour. This notion of blatant verbal racism was new to me, but not my Zimbabwean partner. He’d already learnt skills to deal with such ignorance, however, I was outraged. Four years later, we have a mixed race daughter who is the colour of latte, has an Italian first name and an Indian surname.

Am I concerned for her future? Yes and no. She is one of many in Melbourne’s vibrant melting pot and although it’s profoundly easy to wonder of attacks she could face, I hope she will have the same resilience as those whose stories were represented in the Hobsons Bay Council’s Behind This Smile community art project.

The project aims to challenge stereotypes, prejudices, and judgement of individuals or cultural groups. It is part of the larger campaign, RACISM – IT STOPS WITH ME, an initiative of the National Anti-Racism strategy announced by the Australian Government in 2012, which Hobsons Bay Council supports. Their involvement focuses on endorsing ‘positive attitudes towards cultural diversity’ within the local community.

The artist, Wendy Murray says, “Behind This Smile artwork reflects the diverse cultural histories of the Hobsons Bay area and offered me, as the artist, an intimate insight into the lives and histories of the community members

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involved.” The project focuses on sharing a series of images and stories from Australians who’ve faced racism due to their differences. Different from whom? From those with simplistic attitudes implanted throughout colonialisation?

The answer is undefined but due to campaigns like this becomes malleable. “Behind this smile, I believe we all want to feel valued and accepted,” says Bridget, a participant involved in the artwork. Darleen says, “Behind this smile, I think it’s ok to be different but we should all be treated the same.”

Altogether there are 12 stories and they define what racism means to the individual or cultural group they identify with and how they’ve handled such confrontations. Every story is unique and each highlights a profound message of the human spirit; that it takes undeniable strength and depth of character to persistently counteract and rise above ill-informed words and actions.

Snippets of the stories can be found in libraries around Hobsons Bay along with images and postcards. Flags of the participants are up until June to reinforce the message and inspire others to think about that which is behind their own smile. Hopefully, time well spent.

Stories can be found online at: www.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/Community/Multicultural/ Behind_This_Smile Kyla-Jayne Rajah

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A WORD FROM JILL HENNESSY We all know how important it is for our health and wellbeing to keep active, but as the weather gets cooler, it can be very tempting to stay inside wrapped in a blanket instead.

However there are some great local events happening this month that will hopefully inspire you to get out and about.

Our local community centres are fantastic places to make friends and keep fit: Laverton Community Hub runs Zumba Classes for $5 on Saturdays from 9am to 10am and Tai Chi Classes for $2 on Fridays from 9.30am to 10.30am, while Altona Meadows Community Centre holds Hatha Yoga classes on Mondays from 10am to 11.15am. For the details of these and all the other programs running at community centres in Hobson’s Bay, visit www.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/Community/Community_Hub_Centres.

of people across Victoria and the country, Vic Labor will be walking and running to raise funds for vital breast cancer research. Visit www.mothersdayclassic.com.au for more information and to register or donate.

If you have any questions about any of the activities raised here or other constituent matters, please contact me on 03 9395 0221 or jill.hennessy@parliament.vic.gov.au. I will also be holding a mobile office this month and would love to meet you. Please visit my website for details www.jillhennessy.com.au.

Jill Hennessy

If outdoor activity is more your thing, parkrun organises a 5km run every Saturday morning from 8am at Arndell Park Community Centre in Truganina. It’s free and a great way to meet others. For more information and to register, visit www.parkrun.com.au/pointcook/ And, of course, there’s the Altona Beach Market for delicious fresh food and local arts and crafts, it’s on every Tuesday from 9am – 3pm at Logan Reserve.

I also encourage everyone to walk, run or donate to this year’s Mother’s Day Classic. Along with tens of thousands

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ALTONA LIBRARY - CELEBRATING 50 YEARS 1965 - 2015

Opening day 5 June 1965. Head librarian Laurie James and guests.

The Altona public library was opened on Saturday 5 June 1965 before a crowd of 500 people.

The library’s architects were Howden and McLean, with the project architect being Bryan Glynne. Built by well known Altona builder, L.C. Noordenne, the library was considered a state of the art facility and the local press of the day made much of the fact that the library had air conditioning. It cost approximately £71,000 to establish.

This comprised £46,717 for the building, £13,370 for the book stock and £4,000 for staff salaries. Operating expenses for the 1965-1966 year was £17,300.

The Children’s Corner was adorned with a mural executed in oils by Mrs. Marjorie Howden (who was the illustrator of the John and Betty series of readers) depicting the early settlers surrounded by the growth of Altona.

Through various renovations, a flood or two, many story times and cultural events, the ascendancy of technology and the launch of the EnviroCentre, the library has now

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been at the heart of the community for 50 years and to celebrate we are inviting the community to the following events at Altona Library.

Altona: a great place to live, work and play Come along and celebrate all things Altona. Join the Heritage Group to re-visit the ‘60s, ‘70s and beyond, through local stories, nostalgic images and rarely seen footage. Re-discover why Altona is a great place to live, work and play.

Thursday 28 May 2pm to 3.30pm Bookings: via library website or phone 1300 462 542 Birthday Rhyme time Tuesday 2 June, 10.30am to 11am Birthday Story time Featuring the 1965 story Puffer Pete Thursday 4 June 10.30am to 11am

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The Children’s Corner at Altona Public Library showing the mural executed in oils by Mrs. Marjorie Howden, depicting the early settlers surrounded by the achievements of and growth of Altona as background, and activities of the children in education, sport and civic pride.

World Environment Day celebrations Have you heard the news? World Environment Day is on the same day as the Altona Library 50th birthday! To celebrate we are taking over the library to showcase local environmental groups and activities, Bike n’ Blend - Pedal Powered Smoothie bike, Reptile Encounters show, The Connies, Positive Charge energy saving workshop, citrus tree pruning workshop, compost worm farming workshop and much, much, more!

Friday 5 June 10am to 2pm Birthday party Bring the family, meet up with friends at the Altona Library

Opening day 5 June 1965. Excited Altona residents on Queen Street. image Denise Ogilvie

birthday party. Featuring multicultural performances and games, music, craft, face painting, photo booth, book sale, story time at 10.30am and cake cutting and speeches at 12pm.

Saturday 6 June 10am to 1pm Friends of Altona Libraries book sales Friday 5 June and Saturday 6 June 10am to 1pm Visit http://libraries.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au for more of the story or www.historypin.com for more Altona Library and general Altona images.

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MOST INSPIRATIONAL YOUNG PEOPLE AWARDS 2015 The winners of Hobsons Bay’s Most Inspirational Young People Award were announced last night during the city’s main Youth Week event.

Cherry Lake Ward Councillor Sandra Wilson said that the winners were an inspiration to the whole community.

“What an amazing and diverse group of young people we have here in Hobsons Bay,” Cr Wilson said.

“From music, to charity, fundraising, mentoring and outstanding academic achievements, these young people are all making a difference in their communities and making Hobsons Bay a better place.

“These young people are all chasing their dreams and as a community we should be proud of our high achieving youth – they will be our future leaders.”

The awards are presented by Future Leaders Unite (FLU) and Hobsons Bay City Council to young people aged between 12 and 25.

This year’s group winners are: • 2014 Whitten Project. The ten participants in the 2014 Hobsons Bay City Council Whitten Project completed a seven month youth leadership program with the Western Bulldogs Football Club. Some of the group’s achievements included volunteering at the Western Bulldogs Men’s Health Program and fundraising for local sports groups.

• She Wolf. She Wolf is an all girl band challenging masculine stereotypes in rock music. They have performed at Moomba, the Hobsons Bay Festival, Yarraville Festival and Craigieburn Festival, and been awarded the Espy Showdown Battle of the Bands, the JB HI song writing prize and best rock song with a female vocalist at Kool Skools.

They have also participated in fundraising campaigns for the R U OK fund, WarChild and Minh Duong.

• Fill your Sole. Fill your sole was a community project that emerged from the Hobsons Bay Youth Services Young Women’s Mentoring Program. The group of nine local young women organized a campaign to fill empty shoeboxes with much needed everyday items and donate them to young people experiencing homelessness in Hobsons Bay. The success of the campaign was astonishing, with the wider community soon getting on board.

This year’s individual winners are: • Noela Ido. Noela arrived in Australia from Africa with her younger sister in October 2013 and lives with her aunt, uncle and cousin. This tri-lingual student from Bayside College has won several academic awards and the Western Chances Scholarship. She is a wonderful role model who provides mentoring and support to her peers and has a strong social conscience.

• Charlee Jane Maru. Charlee is an active member of the Mauri and Polynesian community in the west, participating on fundraising committees for the Horizon Mauri and Polynesian Youth Group and organising a number of festivals such as Waitangi Day, celebrating Mauri and Polynesian cultural diversity.

• Tim Lilley. Tim is the recipient of the Australian Defense Force Long Tan Leadership and Teamwork Award and a prestigious Swannie Award for debating. In 2014 he was also accepted into the Melbourne University Kwong Lee Dow Young Scholars Program. At Bayside College he has organized the Make a Difference, Harmony Week and Amazing Race programs.

• Noah Callan. Noah was nominated for his commitment to overcoming unique barriers that affect his participation in everyday life. Noah has Dyskinetic Athetoid Cerebral Parsley and he is reliant on a computer for communication.

He is confined permanently to a wheelchair however this does not stop his involvement in school activities such as school productions, athletics and excursions.

• Daniel Ketchley. Daniel was the inaugural Altona P-9 College Captain in 2014. This inspiring student has run fundraising events for Diabetes Australia, raising $600 with a week of activities at his school.

• Damian He. Damien was nominated for his exceptional academic achievements and his involvement in extracurricular school activities at Bayside College. He is a talented pianist, member of the Student Representative Council and part of the team that provide technical assistance during school assemblies, concerts and performances.

Each nominee will receive an award and a $100 visa voucher, courtesy of Hobsons Bay City Council.

UPDATED RESUME If it may be that you do not have a resume, you will most definitely need one without question. This is a crucial part of finding employment as almost every employer will hire through application of resume submission. A resume informs employers of all necessary information that is relevant within their recruitment process. Altering your resume for the different positions you apply for can have a positive effect on your application as employers like to see your dedication to that field of work. For example, if you are applying for a receptionist role, you would solely base your skills, objectives and qualities around that position.

If you already have a resume remember to always keep it updated with all yours skills, certificates etc. Take out anything that may seem irrelevant in terms of applying

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for jobs, and most importantly do not lie. Putting any false information on your resume will impact you greatly when an employer asks you in an interview to expand on something you may have lied about and you cannot answer due to it being untruthful. Honesty will get you a long way in your career.

Tip: Make your resume stands out from others and give employers something they’ll remember, it’s all about first impression. If you have a sloppy resume, employers will assume you as being the same.

Jess Rae Editor: The 2nd part of this article will be in next months issue.

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BELLYDANCING SWITCHED ON THE ‘LIFE LIGHT’ FOR COMA PATIENT Fast track 14 years later and Nicole runs Blue Fire Bellydance School in Altona East.

“I want people to experience what I did when I first walked into a class, to pass on this amazing gift of this ancient dance and hopefully like mine did - transform some lives.”

Music, moves and props such as swords and fan veils help students explore the wonderful range of styles that Nicole incorporates into their choreographies - inspired from workshops she attends around the world.

Cherine, a student of two years, explains what she gets out of Bellydancing - “You get to meet so many wonderful women of all shapes, sizes and ages forming a supportive and encouraging sisterhood. With plenty of opportunities to perform and have fun along the way, what’s not to love!”

Photo Credit: Cynthia Marinakos Nicole and students Nicole Sanderson, Sarah Painter, Mary Saad and Cherine Exadactylos

In 2001, Nicole Sanderson was a happy and healthy 27 year old enjoying her carefree life to the fullest - as you do in your 20s.

To give bellydancing a go, visit www.bluefirebellydance.com.au and give Nicole a call on 0430 595 702.

Cynthia Marinakos

One day her whole life changed.

Nicole was diagnosed with Wegener’s Granulomatosis, a rare auto immune disease. She fell into a coma for three weeks with only five per cent chance of survival. She got out only to enter a deep depression, and was told she would never have kids, or go horse-riding again (her biggest passion).

Later that year, Nicole was invited to a bellydance class.

She recalls, “Walking into that class for the very first time I was an uncoordinated, 121kgs, woman with patchy hair.

I was unsure, quiet and a reserved woman who felt like I had lost everything womanly about me.”

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Notices ALTONA LADIES PROBUS CLUB FUN, FELLOWSHIP & FRIENDSHIP We meet every 4th Thursday At the Altona RSL – 10am start.

We have monthly speakers, Theatre outing every 4th Monday Lunch dine out every 3rd Wednesday Occasional trips and outings New members will be made very welcome Enquiries to Merle – 9398 3640 Or Jenny – 9398 3379

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 Hi, Would it be possible to put our new CWA (Country Women’s Ass) branch on the Community Board? We are Point Cook Evening Branch CWA. We meet 3rd Thursday of each month at D’Olive on Point Cook Road at 7 pm.

Open to all women for friendship, community service, social issues, creativity, women’s and children’ s issues, personal development and crafts In return for your time, the CWA will deliver fun, friendship and a feeling of belonging to Australia’s leading women’s organisation.

Contact Chris: 0424014757 Karen: 0411035217 Editor: Yes certainly you do some excellent work!

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COMMUNITY CAFÉ WEEKLY

Laverton Community Centre (the Hub) 95-105Railway Ave Laverton Every Wednesday, 12noon-1pm Altona Meadows Community Centre 28 Trafalgar Avenue, Altona Meadows Every Friday, 12noon-1pm 3 course meal, both days cost: $8/$5 (conc) Bookings essential by Monday/ Thursday Phone:8368 0177

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

DO YOU ENJOY SINGING? The Altona Community Choir invites you to come along and join us on Monday evenings from 7:30-9:30 at the Altona Seniors Citizen Centre on the corner of Sargood and Queen St. No singing experience required, we have a conductor and pianist to teach us the music. Anyone over the age of 16 is welcome to come along.

Interested? Call or SMS Paula on 0409 215 352.

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.

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ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS Is drinking costing you more than money?

24 hour helpline 1300 22 22 22 No matter where in the area someone rings this number it will be answered locally.

COMMUNITY CAFÉ 12 Noon – 1pm Wednesday Laverton Community Centre The Laverton Hub 95-105 Railway Ave Laverton Friday Altona Meadows Community Centre 28 Trafalgar Ave Altona Meadows Bookings Essential 8368 0177

HOBSONS BAY (ALTONA) GARDEN CLUB INC. We invite you to join us. We meet on the third Monday of the month at 1pm. Located at the Youth Hall, corner of Civic Pde and Sugargum Drive, Altona.We have great speakers, demonstrations and a trading table.

Enjoy a social afternoon tea with warm and friendly people. Any inquires please ring Val on 9398 2002 or Bernice on 9314 2593

Altona Kids Hi Kids,

I love t he sound of an impassioned message! So, when I saw t he ‘Leaves of Change’ exhibit ion at t he Louis Joel Community Cent re, my hear t was gladdened. Over and over, I heard t he voices of schoolchildren who not only t hink change is possible, but who believe t hey can bring it to life. Here’s what some of you little beaut ies said wit h bot h convict ion and s t rengt h!

“We need to keep our ear t h clean.”

“Don’t Litter in t he ENVIRONMENT.” “NO POLLUT ING THE AIR.”

“Small Act s Transform T he World.”

“Reduce, Reuse, RECYCLE.”

“Save EVERY Animal by NOT Littering.”

“PUT YOUR RUBBISH IN THE RIGHT BIN.” “We Can Grow Lot s O f Food.”

“Half flush toilet s to SAVE WATER.” “I’m t urning off t he light s.”

“Don’t cut down t rees because t ree’s root s help to keep t he soil toget her…”

You’ve got unt il 10t h May to check out T he Sustainability Message Trees, and remember to plant a seed, save water or make a worm farm on Ear t h Day.

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THIS MONTH IN 1940/1946 Next time you have trouble with your mobile phone or internet connection spare a thought for the Altona residents of the 1940’s, specially poor Mr Dickson, who ironically had to complain to the Postmaster General’s Department about the lack of post boxes to post letters by writing them a letter.

The Argus Thursday 2nd May 1940 ALTONA PHONES Altona’s telephone exchange hours are to be extended until 10 pm on week days, with a service from 9 am to 10 am on Sundays. Although Altona is only 9 miles by rail from the city its telephone exchange now closes at 8 pm on week days, 1 pm on Saturdays, and is closed all day Sunday.

Williamstown Chronicle Friday 3rd May 1946 PUBLIC TELEPHONE SOUGHT - Stressing the need for a public telephone in the vicinity of Ascot Rd and Kororoit Rd, Wyndham, at the meeting of Altona Progress Association on Tuesday, Mr. Griffiths declared a child had died in the vicinity recently because a speedy ‘phone message’ could not be put through. A woman, whose husband at the present time was very seriously ill, was unable to get messages concerning his condition. Though the installation of a telephone at that locality might not be

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an attractive financial proposition, there was a desperate need for it as an essential service for those living there.

It was decided to request Werribee Council, the Federal Member and the Postmaster-General’s’ Department to act in the desired direction.

ALTONA POST OFFICE In a letter from the Postmaster General’s Department, Altona Progress Association was informed on Tuesday night that work at the local post office was not yet such as to warrant the conversion of the local post office from an unofficial to an official office.

Imminent changeover of the telephone service to automatic would give the postal people more time to attend to the general business of the office. It was unlikely that a public postal building for Altona could be undertaken for some time to come. The development of the district would be watched, however, and its needs given consideration as the circumstances warranted. The letter was written as the result of representations made by the Association for improved facilities. Mr Dickson expressed the view that lack of postal facilities constituted a source of considerable inconvenience in the district. Those requiring to post letters were hampered by the want of pillars. It was decided to write to the department requesting the installation of more postal boxes around Altona district for the convenience of the public.

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Greg Milne

CFA GOOD FRIDAY APPEAL RESULT

Once again, the members of the CFA at Point Cook and the help from our wonderful community and businesses were able to raise $35,075.80 for the Royal Children’s Hospital on Good Friday.

From all of our members of the Point Cook CFA, we would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who participated.

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SONS OF THE WEST KICKS OFF FOR 2015 A community health program by the Western Bulldogs Football Club has been launched for 2015 last month. ‘Sons of the West’, a program aimed at improving the lives of men both working and living in the western suburbs of Victoria, is in its second year after a very successful first year.

The program has many former Western Bulldogs players supporting it including Doug Hawkins, Scott West, Tony Liberatore and Steve Kretiuk.

Last year, saw the program reach around 1,000 men register at the initial launch and around 150 of the men finished the 12 week program.

Sons of the West program manager Nathan Bibby said while the 2014 program numbers was a terrific achievement, it will be nothing compared to what the program hopes to achieve in 2015. “We would like to aim a lot higher. We have been trying to get around 2,000 men engaged in the program in some capacity� “We are well on target with over 1,000 men doing things with our mobile health station with initiatives we’ve put in place this year� Mr Bibby said.

eating, psychical activity and mental health.

Sons of the West was derived from an extremely successful program that was developed by the Liverpool Football Club in the United Kingdom. “It’s been in the making for about two or three years with our senior staff including club President, Peter Gordon, who did a tour and had a few conversations with the Liverpool Football about their program that they are doing in their backyard which was similar to Western Melbourne� Mr Bibby explained.

The Western Bulldogs targeted the Western Suburbs not only because that’s where the club is based but also due to the poor health conditions that some men are living in the west.

Statistics show that 39.9% of males in Victoria are overweight, however this statistic rises to close to 50% in the Hobsons Bay area.

And only 30% of men in the Wyndham area are involved in sport compared to state average of 41%.

To sign up to the Sons of the West program head to http://www.sonsofthewest.org.au/ Mellad Ibrahimi

The program targets several areas including healthy

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$

$10.

JUNE

Supported by Australian Rotary Health

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FROM USHUAIA TO USHUAIA – A CRUISE TO THE ANTARCTIC SOUTH GEORGIA AND THE SOUTH SANDWICH ISLANDS

South Georgia coastline from the MS Hanseatic

Grytviken from Shackleton’s cemetery

We left the Falkland Islands with two days at sea ahead of us. However, there was plenty happening on board the MS Hanseatic to keep the polar adventurers occupied, with an array of exercise programs, lectures, presentations – and regular meals!

On our first morning at sea, the Captain announced that the first iceberg of our trip could be seen from the starboard side of the ship – the iceberg was eleven kilometres long and about 40 storeys tall! We were to see hundreds of huge icebergs of all shapes and sizes throughout the rest of our journey.

South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands is a British overseas territory. It is a remote and inhospitable collection of islands with South Georgia the largest of them. The islands were first sighted in 1665 and became the world’s largest whaling and sealer’s station until whaling ended in the 1960s. There is no native population on the islands and the present inhabitants are a few British Government officials, scientists from the British Antarctic Survey, museum staff – and a Deputy Postmaster!

During our three day visit we disembarked at six different locations – Salisbury Plain, Piron Island, Grytviken, Fortuna Bay, Stromness, Jason Harbour and Gold Harbour. At each of these locations we were surrounded by thousands of King penguins, fur seals, elephant seals and sea birds. It was pleasing to learn that the King penguins are flourishing in this environment. From an estimated 350 pairs in 1912, there are now 60,000 pairs with as many as 250,000 penguins on the beach during the molt period.

The noise and smell of these guys was overpowering!

Stromness and remnants of the whaling era

At each of our landings our guides marked out tracks with guide posts to help us navigate our way through all these creatures without disturbing them. And whilst the fur seals looked cute, especially the pups, they would charge at the interlopers if they thought their territory was being encroached upon. The suggested response to these stroppy seals was to stand your ground and throw your hands in the air in an act of defiance. It was strongly advised just to keep well clear of the huge elephant seals.

South Georgia is also known because of a famous visitor, British explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton. In April 1916, Shackleton’s Trans-Antarctic expedition became stranded on Elephant Island, 800 miles south west of South Georgia.

Shackleton and five companions set out in a small boat to find help, and on May 10, after an epic voyage and a 22 mile trek overland, they arrived at the Stromness whaling station. The 22 members of the crew who stayed on Elephant Island were subsequently rescued. Shackleton died in 1922 during a later expedition and is buried at Grytviken.

South Georgia was the first stage of our adventure in Antarctic waters; huge mountains and glaciers, icebergs and an abundance of wildlife. And apart from us, there were very few people here. In reflecting on this part of our trip, one could only marvel at the brave adventurers that came here one hundred or two hundred years ago, and how they survived in this harsh environment. Now for the Antarctic Peninsula!

John Dickenson Local resident from Altona

The welcoming committee at Piron Island

Elephant seal

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MESSAGE FROM YOUR CHERRY LAKE WARD COUNCILLORS It’s a place where people say hello even if they don’t know you. There’s the beach, the multiculturalism, the village atmosphere, the family environment, the sense of belonging...these are the words of Altona-ites for the art installation A Day in the Life of an Altona-ite.

During April, curators Heather van Heerwaarden and Wendy Murray went around the Altona market taking photos and asking people what they liked best about Altona. Their words and photos were on display on the corner of Pier Street and Blyth Street (see photo). I hope you had a chance to see this wonderful exhibition.

Replacement of Altona Library’s heating ventilation and air conditioner (HVAC) system will start in May. The new system will significantly reduce the operating costs and greenhouse gas emissions. The library will be closed for one day (5 May) but for the following two weeks there will be changes to services. The library will be open for regular events and computer use, but closed for browsing. Instead, patrons can reserve books online to collect the next day.

The project will be completed in time for the Altona Library’s 50th celebrations coming up in June. We’re celebrating on 6 June with birthday cake, face painting, performances, giant games, craft and story time.

We are very pleased that the Truganina Explosives Reserve Master Plan was adopted by Council in April.

It is a treasured, hard fought-for parcel of land that has been preserved through strong and ardent partnerships over the past 15 years. There has been a dedicated group of volunteers who have worked tirelessly to have this property and its heritage realised, preserved and

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enhanced. It has cultural, environmental, indigenous and heritage significance and this masterplan is a blueprint for the future of the site. We also support the efforts of the volunteers who are currently working hard to get the reserve placed on the Victorian Heritage Register. Council would like to congratulate the volunteers for putting together an excellent submission. We eagerly await Heritage Victoria’s decision.

Council has heard from the community that they want to be better informed and have a greater say in how Council delivers its services, policies and projects. That’s why we have developed the Community Engagement Policy 2015, which is open for public consultation until Wednesday 27 May. To have your say, visit our website and complete the submission form.

Lastly, these past few weeks we have said farewell to our migratory shorebirds from the Altona region. They are now on their way from Australia, where they have spent the summer, to breed in the Arctic over winter. Once they have nested and raised their young, they turn around and do it all again – flying more than 13,000km with only one or two drink stops along the way. We look forward to seeing their new broods in the spring once again.

Cherry Lake Ward Cr Sandra Wilson Contact details: 0419 287 117 or swilson@hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au Cherry Lake Ward Cr Jason Price Contact details: 0438 871 814 or jprice@hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au Council’s website – www.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au

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Altona Gardens

SAUNDERS CASE MOTH & SPITFIRES Adult males have black wings, an orange hairy head, and a black and orange banded abdomen. A female adult does not have wings and remains in her larval case for her entire life. She is white with a brown head and grows to approximately 30mm in length. The larva feeds on a wide range of plants and builds itself a case made of strong silk and decorates it with twigs, leaves, bark or lichen – usually from whatever plant it happens to be feeding on at the time. As, on several occasions, I have found a Saunders Case Moth feeding on Hardenbergia violacea, I guess they must be fond of that native species.

The caterpillar’s head emerges through the opening at the top when it is feeding and when it is enlarging its case. Droppings are expelled through a smaller hole at the bottom of the case.

Pupation occurs within the case and the male moth emerges through the lower opening, leaving the empty pupal case protruding.

Spitfires, or Sawfly Larvae, are very common insects on Eucalyptus trees.

The species in my pen and ink drawing is the Steel-blue Sawfly, Perga dorsalis.

They are not true caterpillars, but the larvae of a wasp.

You may be surprised at my choice of topic, for instead of telling you about a species of plant, I have opted to introduce you to the larvae (grubs or caterpillars) of two insects - the fascinating Saunders Case Moth and the equally fascinating, but often repugnant, Spitfires.

The larval stage is a distinct juvenile form many animals undergo before metamorphosis into adults, insects being excellent examples. The appearance of the larva is, generally, very different from the adult form (e.g. caterpillars and butterflies).

Saunders Case Moth (Metura elongatus) can be found throughout the year in Melbourne gardens. While they are not all that common, or indeed obvious; I manage to locate at least one or two in our own garden every year.

After feeding singly at night, the larvae gather into large groups during the day. This clustering behaviour offers some protection from natural enemies especially as, when disturbed, the larvae tap their abdomens up and down and regurgitate from their mouths a disgusting greeny-yellow fluid smelling strongly of eucalyptus oil. This is a very effective deterrent for would-be predators and parasites.

Almost every year, in August, at least one of the Eucalyptus melliodora trees in the Basaltica WaterWise Garden has had large swathes of its leafy canopy defoliated. On investigation, we always found the culprits - at least one large cluster of Spitfires. Because they are part of the scheme of things, we did not remove them unless the tree was in danger of being completely defoliated.

Helene Wild helene.wild@optusnet.com.au

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VCAT BACKS COUNCIL’S CALL ON PIER STREET DEVELOPMENT Hobsons Bay City Council is pleased that its decision to refuse an application for a seven storey development at 118 Pier Street Altona has been upheld by VCAT. Mayor of Hobsons Bay Cr Colleen Gates said that the decision was a big win for the Hobsons Bay community and showed that Council was right in its views that the proposed development was not appropriate for its location.

“Pier Street in Altona is known for its relaxed café culture and coastal village feel. We believe the bulk and height of the seven-storey building does not align with the Council or community’s vision for Altona’s future,” the Mayor said.

mixed use building with an overall height of 20.4 m, containing a ground level with one 87 sq m retail premise and 19 car parking spaces, a mezzanine level with 14 car parking spaces, and five residential levels containing 31 apartments (12 one-bedroom, 17 two-bedroom and 2 three-bedroom).

Hobsons Bay City Council refused to grant a permit to this applicant in May 2014. Fremont Homes subsequently applied to VCAT to review the Council’s decision.

VCAT has provided Fremont Homes with some informal guidance on what changes should be required in a fresh application.

“We are very pleased that VCAT has upheld our decision and see this as a good planning outcome.

“Our community has told us that they highly value the unique atmosphere of the Altona beach precinct, and the bar is set high when it comes to redevelopment in Pier Street.

“This proposal does not deliver the quality architecture that our community has come to expect for Pier Street.

“The development did not strike the right balance between development and a respect for urban character.”

If Fremont Homes wishes to proceed with the project, it will need to prepare a modified response and apply again to Council for a planning permit.

Fremont Homes proposed to construct a seven storey

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Issue 83

CINDERELLA

Film Review With the school holidays there is always an influx of children-friendly movies released at the cinema. These movies are usually broken down into three categories: Number 1, movies that only children can enjoy, Number 2, movies that children enjoy and parents can tolerate, and Number 3, movies that are loved in equal measure by children and parents alike.

Cinderella is the latter.

Kenneth Branagh has taken this classic story, which has had more than its fair share of remakes over the years and produced what can only be described as pure, undiluted Disney Magic.

The casting in this film is absolutely spot on. People familiar with Downton Abbey will recognize Lily James in the role of the kind and beautiful Cinderella. James is perfection at all times and more than holds her own against the likes of Cate Blanchett and Helena Bonham Carter.

Blanchett is masterful as the evil stepmother, providing an insight into exactly why she is just so awful to our heroine.

Ella’s stepsisters offer much comic relief and Richard Madden, of Game of Thrones fame, is wonderful as Prince Charming.

Bonham Carter makes her big moment as Ella’s fairy godmother count. This one scene is an absolute highlight and is everything that is great about movie magic.

I cried, I laughed and I thoroughly enjoyed every last moment of this film, as did my daughter. Branagh has created an instant classic to add to his growing list of cinematic achievements. If you only see one of the children-friendly films this holiday season, make sure it is Cinderella.

Melissa Longo

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YOUTHFUL REBELLIOUSNESS We’ve always had rebellious youth, The loud-mouthed undergraduate: At Uni while seeking the truth, They’ll find the time to agitate.

These kids are the future leaders Of our southern democracy, But meanwhile some little bleeders Indulge in noisy anarchy.

What is it we parents expect When we’ve raised and nurtured a child?

Calm obedience and respect From a teenager meek and mild?

If that’s what you truly believe, You’re going to be in for a shock: One might say young folk are naïve When conventional wisdom they knock.

The process of education Is to question, not just accept; And at vocal agitation, The young student is quite adept.

But don’t wish it any other way, Because if we remember back To what we were like in our day: Worthy causes we did not lack.

We may think their demands outrageous, And at times their conduct reckless, But our youth will needs be courageous, For they’ll have to clean up our mess.

So let the young ones have their say, Disrespectful and irreverent: There’ll come the day when some of them may Be Ministers in our government.

Jack Nystrom, 9.5.2014.

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Issue 83

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