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FEBRUARY 3, 2021 \ STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Belinda with new-born son Oliver, and two year-old Arlo. Both boys were born outside of Wyndham, but spent time as patients in Werribee Mercy Hospital’s Special Care Nursery. (Joe Mastroianni) 226335_01

Full house at Mercy By Alesha Capone Demand for birthing suites at Werribee Mercy Hospital has reached capacity. The hospital welcomed 3833 babies in 2020, slightly lower than the 3888 babies delivered there in 2019. Health services chief executive Jason Payne said Werribee Mercy Hospital’s birthing numbers had remained steady over the past two years because the birthing suites were unable to accommodate any more expectant mums. He said some pregnant women within the Werribee Mercy Hospital catchment are

being forced to use services at public hospitals outside the area. “The demand exists for Werribee Mercy Hospital to deliver more babies locally but this cannot occur without expanded facilities,” Mr Payne said. “It would be preferable that local families had access to more of the best high quality and safe public birthing services at Werribee Mercy Hospital, so they don’t have to travel.” Mr Payne said planning was under way to boost the capacity of the birthing suites. “A third stage of Werribee Mercy Hospital, which is currently in the final stages of planning, will involve the creation of more

birthing suites, additional post-natal beds, and other ante and post-natal facilities, accompanied by additional midwifery and nursing staff. “Based on demand for existing maternity services, it is projected that Werribee Mercy Hospital would be well placed to meet an anticipated increase in demand of up to 30 per cent more babies in the western metro area.” Mr Payne said Mercy Health has been working with the Victorian Health and Human Services Building Authority and the Department of Health and Human Services since 2016 to prepare for the future needs of Werribee Mercy.

In November’s state budget, $4.8 million was allocated to finalise planning for the third stage of the hospital’s development. “We have acknowledged publicly the funding was a clear sign the voices of the people of the west of Melbourne are being heard and government is committed to meeting a major upgrade,” Mr Payne said. Mercy Health Group chief executive, Adjunct Professor Stephen Cornelissen, said the next stage of Werribee Mercy Hospital’s construction required $300 million in funding “to ensure the people of Wyndham receive the level and quality of health services they deserve and need”.

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2 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 3 February, 2021

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Camera nabs speeding drivers By Alesha Capone A Wyndham Vale road is the top-earning spot for the state’s mobile traffic camera system. During the 2019-20 financial year, a mobile camera located on Black Forest Road, between Brimpton Grove and McGrath Road, issued 3740 infringements to drivers. A mobile camera on Wetherby Road in Doncaster, between Doncaster Road and Koonung Creek, issued the second-highest amount of infringements at 3422.

A mobile camera in Oak Street in Parkville issued 3338 infringements and a camera in Bell Street, Preston issued 3321 infringements. A camera located on Ballarat Road in Footscray, between Geelong Road and Jamieson Avenue, issued 2930 infringements. The infringements were for speeding and unregistered vehicle offences. Victoria Police Acting Assistant Commissioner John Fitzpatrick urged drivers to take care on the road. He said there was more traffic on the state’s roads during summer, with people travelling

‘‘

always wear a seatbelt. There’s no excuse

’’

- John Fitzpatrick to the beach and holiday destinations. “If you’re driving long distances, take regular breaks and where possible share the driving to avoid fatigue,” he said. “If you’re having a few drinks with your mates, make sure you’ve planned how to get home without driving.

Lunar fun at Point Cook pop-up A Kids Lunar Fun Day will be held in Point Cook on Saturday, February 20. The day, to be hosted by the Point Cook Pop Up Park and 8SENSES – a multicultural education business organised by Point Cook resident Phebe Yeo – will run from 3pm to 8pm. Ms Yeo said the free fun day would feature performances, games, activities for children, lantern-making sessions and singing. “Kids and families will be dancing and exercising together with people who are very passionate about cultural dance and very experienced professionals who have been providing dance classes and multi-sports activities in the community,” she said. “There will be cultural presentations with games and participation from families, there will be kids lion dances and a cultural parade by some very brave kids who are doing this for the first time in public.” Performers will include cultural dancers Mel Kew and Rosie Xu, DWM Studios and Rachana Natyalaya from the School of Indian Classical, Folk and Bollywood Dancing. The lion dance will start at 3pm and 4pm at the Point Cook Town Centre near the Pop Up Park. More activities, organised by Ready Steady Go, will be located at the open space basketball court from 3.30pm to 6.30pm. Free entry to the event is only permitted by pre-registration at https://fb.me/e/8gZR76NEV due to COVID-19 safety measures and contact tracing requirements. There are limited places for entry to the Pop Up Park where the performances are located.

“We want people to have a good time, but do not want to be attending collision scenes where drugs or alcohol is a contributing factor.” Acting Assistant Commissioner Fitzpatrick said that the simple act of putting on a seatbelt gave motorists the best chance of survival if they were involved in a serious collision. “Sadly, lives could have been saved if people managed to do this simple task,” he said. “Whether you are travelling a short distance down the road or on a long journey – always wear a seatbelt. There’s no excuse.”

Emu feet, open space at new rail bridge A 30,000 square metre open space, featuring a sculpture of a pair of gigantic emu feet, will be constructed next to the new elevated rail bridge in Werribee. To be installed at the base of two bridge columns, the emu art is based on a traditional Wadawurrung story and will include a series of emu footprints etched into a pathway leading towards the Werribee River. A ‘yarning circle’ representing an emu’s nest will be a central point for gathering and reflection. Plans for the open space, adjoining existing parkland around Wyndham Park and Werribee River, were unveiled by Transport Infrastructure Minister Jacinta Allan and Werribee MP Tim Pallas last Friday at the rail bridge at Werribee Street, where trains are now running. At nearby Cherry Street, the level crossing removal is on track for completion by Easter, ahead of its original 2022 target date. The crossing removal project includes a new road bridge separating cars from trains, connecting Tarneit Road to Princess Highway. Major construction on the area’s third level crossing removal project at Old Geelong Road, Hoppers Crossing, is about to kick off, with crews starting work next week to lift retaining wall panels into place. “Hoppers Crossing and central Werribee are one step closer to being completely level crossing-free, and I can’t wait to see the new artwork and designs that will add so much character and vibrancy to this new open space,” Mr Pallas said

Alesha Capone

Lyanna is looking forward to the Kids Lunar Fun Day. (Supplied/8SENSES)

HOPPERS INDOOR SPORTZ Kids Birthday Parties

TODAY

Werribee Football Club Wednesday 24th February 2021 6.30pm at Werribee Football Club AGENDA 1. Confirmation of 2019 AGM minutes 2. Financial statements for year ended October 31, 2020 3. Presentation of 2020 Annual Report

Function Hire

4. Election of Directors 5. General business *All nominations shall be in writing; signed by the candidate; signed by two club members

202003124120_1-NG12-20

- Ladies & Mixed

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CEO by no later than Wednesday, February 10th. Nomination forms are available by contacting the

Indoor Cricket Seniors

WFC office on (03) 9741 6688. Proxy voting is also

- Monday & Wednesday

available by sending a written

Indoor Cricket Juniors

nomination to the club by no later than

- Friday & Saturday

Wednesday, February 17th.

Unit 13-15, 55 Graham Court Hoppers Crossing P: 9931 0102 E: hopperscrossing@indoorsportsvictoria.com.au

(full member, life member); and delivered to the

at the below address: WERRIBEE FOOTBALL CLUB PO BOX 2049, WERRIBEE VIC 3030

12479544-SG05-21

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3 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 3 February, 2021

NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU Briefs

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Teens charged Police have charged two teenagers following a series of alleged robberies in the Werribee area on Australia Day. A 15-year-old Tarneit girl has been charged with nine offences while a 13-year-old Deer Park girl has been charged with six offences.

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The Environment Protection Authority Victoria has urged swimmers to keep an eye on water quality at the state’s beaches, by checking its twice-daily water quality forecasts. ‘Good’ forecasts equate to suitable swimming conditions, ‘fair’ means beaches may not be suitable for swimming and ‘poor’ forecasts advise that beaches are not suitable for swimming. In December, Werribee South beach logged two good forecasts and Altona 13 good forecasts. Details: epa.vic.gov.au/BeachReport

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Wyndham’s active city portfolio holder, Cr Peter Maynard, with Truganina Hornets players, at the new pitch. (Supplied/Wyndham council)

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Sport awards

Field of dreams includes a new and improved drainage system, which will aid the longevity of the pitch.” Wyndham’s active city portfolio holder, Cr Peter Maynard, said the new state-of-the-art pitch replaced the reserve’s previous surface, which had been out of action due to drainage issues and pitch safety concerns. “These important works have breathed new life into Arndell Park, and I’m sure the host club and general public will enjoy kicking goals at the reserve once again now that the pitch has re-opened to the public,” Cr Maynard said. Keep up to date with the council’s capital works projects by visiting: https://www. wyndham.vic.gov.au/capitalworksdashboard

It’s a case of new year, new surface down at Arndell Park in Truganina. Wyndham council has completed work on a $918,000 synthetic pitch at Arndell Park, which is located on Federation Boulevard Reserve. Mayor Cr Adele Hegedich said the redeveloped soccer pitch was a big win for both the tenant club, the Truganina Hornets, and the wider Truganina community. “Synthetic surfaces require no irrigation during warmer months, resulting in lower maintenance costs, and can accommodate increased hours of use compared to grass pitches,” Cr Hegedich said. “This Wyndham city redevelopment also

Nominations will open for the 2020 Victorian Sport Awards on Monday, February 8. The awards celebrate exceptional members of the state’s sporting community including individuals, team athletes, coaches, administrators and volunteers. Details: http://vicsport.com.au/2020-victoriansport-award-nominations

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Body found in search for snorkeller By Goya Dmytryshchak A body has been found in the search for a women who went missing off Altona Beach, renewing calls for water safety. The 20-year-old Ashwood woman had been in the water with family and friends when she went missing on Saturday morning, police said. Family members raised the alarm about 11.15am. Victoria Police and Life Saving Victoria (LSV) helicopters had scoured the water over Altona and Seaholme, joined by Water Police,

specialist divers from the Search and Rescue Squad and others. LSV assisted with its lifeguards and volunteer lifesavers, the Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter, a drone, two jet skis and two inflatable rescue boats from Altona Lifesaving Club. On Monday morning, search and rescue crews broadened their search. The Search and Rescue Squad found a woman’s body in waters off Altona pier about 10.30am. A small group gathered at the beach was visibly distressed.

The water surrounding Altona and Seaholme is popular for swimmers, boaters, fishers and divers. The tragedy comes as Victoria marked its worst period for drownings with 42 lives lost since July last year. LSV state agency commander Kane Treloar said the woman had last been seen about 100 metres from shore and 400 metres outside the flagged zone at Altona Beach. “Our thoughts are with the family and friends … during what is no doubt an extremely distressing time,” he said.

“After a horror year in Victorian waters, in which we’ve already seen 42 confirmed fatal drownings since 1 July, we’re urging people to make safety their number one priority around water. “If you’re heading to the coastline or waterways, make sure you’re checking the weather conditions and planning before you go.” Hobsons Bay Inspector Tim O’Connor said police would await further information from the coroner’s court in relation to the cause of death.

Tackling graffiti A dual-sided mural featuring native flora and fauna has been painted on a soundwall on Palmers Road in Point Cook. Local artist Jimmy Dvate completed the masterpiece at the suggestion of the Point Cook Action Group (PCAG) last year. PCAG worked with Wyndham council’s graffiti team to bring the mural to life. Wyndham’s community safety portfolio holder, Cr Susan McIntyre, was part of the team which helped to organise the mural. “The new mural shows the beauty of our natural environment and it’s an amazing reminder of all that is on our doorstep,” Cr McIntyre said. “It shows the responsiveness of council to listen to the local community and deliver not only a preventive measure against graffiti but something to be proud of. “Wyndham City partnered with ‘Remember the Wild’ wildlife group, as well as VicRoads,

to make the mural project possible.” Wyndham mayor Adele Hegedich said the mural was created in a bid to tackle a persistent graffiti problem, while enhancing the local area. “Council have outlaid close to $10,000 in the past 12 months to remove graffiti locally and spend an average of $350,000 annually to keep Wyndham free of graffiti,” Cr Hegedich said. “The mural location is a popular spot for walkers and riders and now provides something extra impressive for them to enjoy along their journey.” To suggest an anti-graffiti mural idea or to report graffiti to the council, email to graffiti@ wyndham.vic.gov.au PCAG chair Bob Fairclough, Paul von Harder and Cr Susan McIntyre. (Joe Mastroianni). 226422_01

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5 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 3 February, 2021

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Car fires spark concern

Emergency planning boost

Fire Rescue Victoria crews have attended 13 suspicious car fires across Wyndham during the past six months, prompting calls for residents to remain vigilant. FRV members responded to car fires in areas including Werribee, Hoppers Crossing, Mount Cottrell, Tarneit and Truganina between July 2 last year and January 5. Assistant chief fire officer (ACFO) Adam Dalrymple said firefighters have responded to many recent incidents in Wyndham and Geelong where cars had been found alight in grasslands, sparking concerns a dangerous grassfire could start.

‘‘

car fires on the urban fringe could quickly become a tragedy - Adam Dalrymple

’’

“Car fires in scrub and grasslands can and do easily turn into dangerous grassfires, which is a serious threat to nearby residents and their homes,” ACFO Dalrymple said. “Many properties in Wyndham and Geelong are located close to grasslands, particularly the newer estates. “This, combined with the increased chance of grassfire this season, means car fires on the urban fringe could quickly become a tragedy. “In addition to the threat they pose to the community, these incidents also put responding firefighters at risk.” ACFO Dalrymple has urged Wyndham and Geelong residents to call triple-0 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 if they see, or knew of, anyone setting fire to cars. “An anonymous tip to Crime Stoppers can also help the emergency services prevent these incidents in the first place. I also urge

Authorities, including the FRV, CFA and police, attended a car fire in the western suburbs last month. (Supplied/Fire Rescue Victoria)

anyone engaging in this type of behaviour to understand the potential consequences of these actions, and to think again.” FRV advises residents who live next to grasslands where a fire breaks out, to walk – not drive – at least two streets back. Residents who live more than two streets

away from a grassfire should stay at home, close windows and doors and place towels around windows sills and door gaps, and turn off air conditioners. Learn more about how to prepare for grassfires and what to do in the event of one at www.frv.vic.gov.au/bush-and-grassfire-safety.

Wyndham and Melton councils will share in almost $150,000 in state government funding to help prepare for future emergencies. The funding is part of the state government’s $5.6 million Municipal Emergency Resourcing Program, which helps Victoria’s 64 rural, regional and outer-metropolitan councils prepare communities for emergency events. Council responsibilities around emergencies include support for vulnerable people, running relief centres and working towards economic and social recovery. They can use the program funding for a range of emergency planning work including fire suppression and education for communities in at-risk areas. Funding can also be used for planning recovery from the impact of the coronavirus pandemic and emergency work in a COVIDSafe environment. Councils often use the funding to create a specialist emergency management position, with some sharing the position across neighbouring councils. Local Government Minister Shaun Leane said councils’ extensive local knowledge and close connection to communities makes them a vital part of Victoria’s response to emergency events. “Councils can and do make a huge difference to community resilience and recovery in the face of an emergency,” he said. Benjamin Millar

COVID-19 RESTRICTIONS ARE IN PLACE Coronavirus restrictions are in place to help keep us safe and open. Keeping on top of this virus is up to all of us.

Keep a face mask handy at all times.

Stick to visitor limits in our homes.*

And please practise COVIDSafe behaviours to keep us safe this summer. • •

Keep 1.5 metres apart from those you don’t live with. Keep your hands and surfaces clean.

•

Stay home if you feel unwell, and get tested.

For all current restrictions, go to CORONAVIRUS.vic.gov.au *Babies under the age of 12 months are not included in daily limits. Authorised by the Victorian Government, Melbourne

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6 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 3 February, 2021

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Fire sparks call for action By Tara Murray Two western suburbs advocates are among those calling for government action after a waste management fire in Brooklyn last week. There have been at least eight factory, waste management or tip fires across the west and Hume since October. The Kealba landfill has had underground fires burning continuously for more than a year. Former LeadWest chief executive Craig Rowley and former state MLC member Colleen Hartland say enough is enough. “It’s a long-running issue,” Mr Rowley said.

“It doesn’t matter which party has been in power at the time, they haven’t done enough clean-up of the west. The urgency to clean it [industry] up has never been greater.” Mr Rowley said during his time with LeadWest, from 2010 to 2018, one of the biggest things raised by local councils was wanting a cleaner, greener and more liveable western metropolitan area. “We were constantly talking about it with the other tiers of government, about the investment needed in the west to make it cleaner and greener. It just seems that it is taking a long time to get there.”

Mr Rowley said an Environment Protection Act, which changes how the Environment Protection Authority regulates pollution, waste and contamination in Victoria, had been delayed for 12 months. “What about all the communities here, we’ve been waiting for so long, to have confidence to be able to breath fresh air. Confidence that our creeks aren’t going to be polluted.” He suggests forming a steering committee which would include the EPA, WorkSafe, MFB and council representatives to have a co-ordinated approach to industry clean-up. He also proposed government funding to

help bring old industrial estates up to the 21st century and the introduction of better air quality monitoring systems. Ms Hartland is a member of the Facebook group Anti-Toxic Waste Alliance, which was set up after the West Footscray warehouse fire which spewed toxic fumes across the western suburbs for days in August 2018. She said the group, a non-political alliance of community groups, organisations and individuals, wants action. “There’s been a spate of these fires,” she said. “There’s been three in the last 10 days.” She has also called for the act to be introduced.

Sounds of wildlife Blind and vision-impaired children visited Serendip Sanctuary during a pilot education program last week. Hosted by park rangers, in partnership with Blind Sports and Recreation Victoria, 10 children and their families walked through the sanctuary, which is located near the You Yangs. They listened to the sounds of the environment and touched different objects and animals, including a resident bearded-dragon. The youngsters also learned about the Aboriginal culture of Wadawurrung Country. The children held possum skins, boomerangs and clapping sticks and heard explanations of how they are used by the traditional owners of the land. The Junior Rangers pilot program has been developed to allow blind and vision-impaired children to explore nature and experience native wildlife up close.

Parks Victoria education officer Vanessa Wiggenraad said: “It was wonderful to see the kids immersed in the sounds and sensations of Serendip Sanctuary, their faces lighting up at the call of the birdlife or the clack of traditional clapping sticks”. Blind Sports and Recreation Victoria program co-ordinator Miriam Bilander thanked Parks Victoria for hosting the event. “The wonderful park rangers made sure this program was as tactile as possible – touching lizards, learning about various Aboriginal hunting tools, and even using speakers to play birdcalls when the real ones fell silent,” she said. With its flat, wide paths, Serendip Sanctuary is an accessible park suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. The Serendip education team runs wildlife tours for children and adults of all abilities. Details: www.parks.vic.gov.au/

Park Ranger Ebonie Cook introduces a bearded-dragon to children. (Supplied)

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7 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 3 February, 2021

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Thousands rely on JobSeeker By Alesha Capone Four western suburbs are among the top 10 areas of the state where residents remain on JobSeeker payments. The federal government last year raised the rate of JobSeeker (formerly Newstart) payments for unemployed people to $560 per week from $250.20. However, the payment is due to return to its pre-pandemic rate at the end of March. Federal government data shows that more than 146,000 Victorians remain on JobSeeker.

Dandenong has the most residents in the state receiving JobSeeker, with 3101 residents on the Centrelink support payment, followed by Cranbourne East (2585 residents). Truganina placed next, with 2404 residents on JobSeeker. Melton South has 2398 JobSeeker recipients, while St Albans North has 2222 residents and 2122 Delahey residents receiving the supplement. The Australian Council of Social Services (ACOSS) last week warned that only two-thirds of full-time jobs lost in the recession caused by

the COVID-19 pandemic have been restored. ACOSS acting chief executive Edwina MacDonald said that across the nation, 1.5 million people remain on unemployment benefits. “We know that for every job vacancy, there are nine people looking for a job or more hours, and that this is even worse in many regional areas,” Ms MacDonald said. “What’s more, we still have to generate enough jobs for people entering the labour market, including over 200,000 school leavers. “To rebuild from this crisis, the government

must focus on job creation and ensuring people without enough paid work can cover the basics, including a roof over head and food on the table.” Ms MacDonald said ACOSS would like the federal government to keep JobSeeker rate at its pre-pandemic levels. “Instead of short-term measures and cuts to income support, we need to finally see a permanent and adequate increase to the base rate of JobSeeker of at least $25 a day more than the old Newstart rate, so that people can cover the basics and rebuild their lives,” she said.

Myth-busting seminar An online seminar for people living with Parkinson’s aims to dispel some of the myths and misconceptions surrounding the disease. Brooklyn’s Pam West, who founded the ParKanDo peer support group for people living with Parkinson’s in Melbourne’s west, said the disease didn’t define people. “The focus for us is about busting perceptions and myths around capacity of people with Parkinson’s to engage and contribute within the community,” she said. “People seem to view someone with shakes or someone whose speech is impacted by the condition as not having the capacity to do things. “We’ve had members refused service in hotels because they had the shakes. We’ve had people who are with a carer [and] the conversation is directed at the carer instead of the individual.” The seminar will include a speaker from

Parkinson’s Victoria and people with lived experience of the disease sharing their personal perspectives. Ms West’s professional life included the roles of business development and project management before she used her skills to establish the support group. In the year since it was launched, ParKanDo’s membership has doubled to more than 60 people from all walks of life. The youngest member is 40 and the oldest is 87. Ms West said last year’s COVID-19 lockdowns had pushed many of the group’s events online, which had led to a growth in membership from across Australia. The free e-seminar will be held via Zoom on Tuesday, February 9, from 5-6pm. Register for the event via https://bit. ly/2K6TOr0. Details events@parkinsons-vic.org.au or call 1800 644 189.

Pam West. (Damjan Janevski) 207844_01

EVERY TEST HELPS US KEEP CATCHING UP WITH MATES Every test keeps us on top of this virus. And keeps us doing the things we love. So even if your symptoms are mild, or you’ve been tested before, every test helps.

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8 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 3 February, 2021

NEWS

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. . . from the Mayor Earlier this year I was contacted by residents who were concerned about a large amount of tumbleweeds on ƚŚĞŝƌ ƉƌŽƉĞƌƟĞƐ͘ / ƵŶĚĞƌƐƚĂŶĚ this is an ongoing issue that ŽŌĞŶ ƌĞŽĐĐƵƌƐ ĂƌŽƵŶĚ ƐƵŵŵĞƌ͕ with most of the tumbleweeds coming from the Truganina ^ŽƵƚŚ ŽŶƐĞƌǀĂƟŽŶ ZĞƐĞƌǀĞ͘ Garrang Wilam Primary School in Truganina opened last week. (Supplied)

New school ticks boxes The playground, library and a peacock statue are among the favourite things for pupils at a new school in Truganina. The pupils at Garrang Wilam Primary School were happy to point out their highlights when asked by Education Minister James Merlino and Tarneit MP Sarah Connolly during a tour of the school last week. The school features two new learning neighbourhoods, an administration building, outdoor play courts, a sports field, a library, a culinary haven, an art and design studio and a performing arts and physical education building. It has more than 155 students starting this year, including 65 prep pupils. The Truganina South East Integrated Family Centre will be built next to the school, to

help children make a smooth transition from kindergarten. “The first day of school is a big day every year – but particularly after the year we had last year,” Mr Merlino said. “We want to make this a special year and there is nothing more important than opening a school.” Mr Merlino said Garrang Wilam’s sandpit was “the biggest I’ve ever seen”. Ms Connolly presented the school with a children’s encyclopedia and suggested that each pupil should take a turn reading it. “A fantastic school with state-of-the-art facilities like Garrang Wilam Primary School is what every student deserves,” she said. Alesha Capone

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dŚĞ Ψϵϭϴ͕ϬϬϬ ŝŶǀĞƐƚŵĞŶƚ ŝŶ ůŽĐĂů ƐƉŽƌƚ ǁŝůů ŚĞůƉ provide for the growing popularity of soccer in tǇŶĚŚĂŵ͘ /ƚ͛Ɛ ĂůƐŽ ĂŶ ĞŶǀŝƌŽŶŵĞŶƚĂůůǇ ĨƌŝĞŶĚůǇ ŽƉƟŽŶ ĂƐ ƐǇŶƚŚĞƟĐ ƐƵƌĨĂĐĞƐ ƌĞƋƵŝƌĞ ŶŽ ŝƌƌŝŐĂƟŽŶ ĚƵƌŝŶŐ ǁĂƌŵĞƌ ŵŽŶƚŚƐ͕ ƌĞƐƵůƟŶŐ ŝŶ ůŽǁĞƌ ŵĂŝŶƚĞŶĂŶĐĞ ĐŽƐƚƐ͘

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The redevelopment includes a new and improved ĚƌĂŝŶĂŐĞ ƐǇƐƚĞŵ͕ ǁŚŝĐŚ ǁŝůů ŚĞůƉ ƚŚĞ ƉŝƚĐŚ ůĂƐƚ ĨŽƌ ǇĞĂƌƐ ƚŽ ĐŽŵĞ͘

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Back in business By Alesha Capone Wyndham businesses have welcomed the support from local residents as Melbourne emerges from pandemic lockdown. The Park Werribee owner Nick Christou said the hotel received more than 500 calls in just two days last week after Premier Daniel Andrews announced that eateries could host sit-down meals again. Committee for Wyndham chief executive Barbara McLure said it was terrific to see people shopping and eating in Watton Street, Werribee last Thursday. “I think there is a sense that people have an understanding that local businesses did it really hard and it’s very important to support local businesses now,” she said. Renay Ahmed, from the Wyndham Cache café and deli and LT’s Egg Farm in Werribee South, said the café was encouraging customers to order grazing boxes and drinks to enjoy on the lawn. “The response has been phenomenal. As soon as the Premier’s announcement happened, the phones were ringing off the hook,” Ms Ahemd said. Pacific Werribee centre manager Patricia Gardiner said the shopping centre was pleased to welcome back traders which were closed during the pandemic. “The centre community is certainly beaming with positivity,” Ms Gardiner said. State manager for Cedar Woods, Lloyd Collins said it was encouraging to see the Williams Landing town centre reopen. He said Cedar Woods was working with tenants and council to expand the external dining area to help businesses get back on track. Wyndham council last week announced measures to help eateries extend their dining areas, by creating an additional 1938 square metres of outdoor dining space across the municipality. Wyndham city design and liveability director Ludo Campbell-Reid said the council was also planning the West End Experience, an outdoor dining area in Watton Street between Bridge Hotel and Wedge Street Piazza, as a series of one-day activations. In addition, three “parklets” will be installed in Hoppers Junction and outdoor dining precincts created in the Point Cook Town Centre and Soho Village.

Light in a tough year Breakout copy. Trade Gothic LT Std. Regular. 9.5pt. Writer tagline

Teenage boxing champion Marissa Williamson has been awarded a scholarship by the Australian Sporting Hall of Fame. The scholarship gives the 18-year-old

(Joe Mastroianni) 219412_01

Light in a tough year

Teenage boxing champion Marissa Williamson has been awarded a scholarship by the Australian Sporting Hall of Fame. The scholarship gives the 18-year-old $10,000 to put towards boxing costs, access to wellbeing programs and staff, and she will be mentored by Olympic gold medallist and professional beach volleyballer Kerri Pottharst. Williamson grew up in Wyndham and took up boxing when she was 16. She is the 64kg Victorian Boxing Champion, 64kg Australian Boxing Champion and is on the National Futures Team which aims to train athletes for the 2022 Commonwealth Games and 2024 Olympics. Williamson said the scholarship has been the highlight of a “tough year”. She left foster care earlier this year and was temporarily homeless before finding her own apartment. And she was all set to represent Australia at the World Youth Games in Poland last month, before it was postponed until next year due to COVID-19. Williamson said she usually trains six days a week. For the past few months she has been training at Crew Fitness and Performance in Braybrook, which was co-founded by five-time Australian boxing champion Jason Mallia. “What I have enjoyed [about boxing] is just the opportunity to travel and learn life skills, which I didn’t have the chance to do when I was younger,” she said. Alesha Capone

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Back in business Breakout copy. Trade Gothic LT Std. Regular. 9.5pt. Writer tagline

In Autumn this year a burn will also be conducted ĂŶĚ ŶĂƟǀĞ ŐƌĂƐƐĞƐ ǁŝůů ƚŚĞŶ ďĞ ƉůĂŶƚĞĚ ƚŽ ƌĞĚƵĐĞ ƚŚĞ ĂŵŽƵŶƚ ŽĨ ǁĞĞĚƐ͘

/Ŷ ŵŽƌĞ ŶĞǁƐ ĨŽƌ dƌƵŐĂŶŝŶĂ ƌĞƐŝĚĞŶƚƐ͕ /͛ŵ ĂůƐŽ excited to announce that work is now complete ŽŶ ƚŚĞ &/& ϭ ^ƚĂƌ ZĂƟŶŐ ƐǇŶƚŚĞƟĐ ƉŝƚĐŚ Ăƚ ƌŶĚĞůů WĂƌŬ͕ ǁŚŝĐŚ ŝƐ ůŽĐĂƚĞĚ Ăƚ &ĞĚĞƌĂƟŽŶ ŽƵůĞǀĂƌĚ ZĞƐĞƌǀĞ͘

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Wyndham businesses have welcomed the support from local residents as Melbourne emerges from pandemic lockdown. The Park Werribee owner Nick Christou said the hotel received more than 500 calls in just two days last week after Premier Daniel Andrews announced that eateries could host sit-down meals again. Committee for Wyndham chief executive Barbara McLure said it was terrific to see people shopping and eating in Watton Street, Werribee last Thursday. “I think there is a sense that people have an understanding that local businesses did it really hard and it’s very important to support local businesses now,” she said. Renay Ahmed, from the Wyndham Cache

Parks Victoria recently met with a number of residents to discuss their plans for the reserve’s ŽŶŐŽŝŶŐ ŵĂŶĂŐĞŵĞŶƚ͘ dĞŵƉŽƌĂƌǇ ĨĞŶĐŝŶŐ ŚĂƐ now been installed at the reserve as an interim ŵĞĂƐƵƌĞ ƚŽ ƌĞĚƵĐĞ ƚŚĞ ŝŵƉĂĐƚ ŽŶ ƚŚĞ ĐŽŵŵƵŶŝƚǇ͘ This will be installed for a total of two months and any tumbleweeds caught on the fence will ďĞ ƌĞŵŽǀĞĚ͘

ŽƵŶĐŝů ŽĸĐĞƌƐ ĂƌĞ ǁŽƌŬŝŶŐ ĐůŽƐĞůǇ ǁŝƚŚ WĂƌŬƐ Victoria and the Victorian Government to ŵĂŶĂŐĞ ƚŚŝƐ ƉƌŽďůĞŵ͕ ĂŶĚ /͛ŵ ůŽŽŬŝŶŐ ĨŽƌǁĂƌĚ ƚŽ ƐĞĞŝŶŐ ƐŽŵĞ ůŽŶŐͲƚĞƌŵ ƌĞƐƵůƚƐ͘

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By Alesha Capone

While Parks Victoria is responsible for ŵĂŝŶƚĂŝŶŝŶŐ ƚŚŝƐ ůĂŶĚ͕ / ǁĂŶƚĞĚ ƚŽ ƉƌŽǀŝĚĞ ǇŽƵ with an update of what is being done to solve ƚŚŝƐ ŝƐƐƵĞ ŽŶĐĞ ĂŶĚ ĨŽƌ Ăůů͘

ƌ ĚĞůĞ ,ĞŐĞĚŝĐŚ͘

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MY WYNDHAM Truganina’s Rahima Ahmed, who is originally from the Oromia region of Ethiopia, moved to Wyndham about a decade ago. The mother-of-four runs Oromo Women’s Networking Group. She talks with Alesha Capone.

What do you like about Truganina and Wyndham?

Why are you passionate about helping future generations, especially those with a non-English speaking background?

What I like about this area is the involvement of the community and local community centre. Since 2017, when I took part in the Building Blocks program, I decided to be a better person and I started planning to make differences. That connection engaged me and encouraged me to bring about the idea for the Oromo Women’s Networking Group. The aim of this group is to bring my community together to stay connected to the local community centre and get support, understand differences, mix with diverse people, learn about cultural barriers and understand more about the Australian lifestyle.

The reason I am passionate about the future generation is something I have learnt from my father. The Australian lifestyle has taught me to worry about future generations. As an example, it wasn’t easy for me to help my children with support for their homework six years ago. My husband has work and by the time he came home it was too late and it wasn’t easy to find a tutor. I decided to continue to learn English or study with my children. In 2020, through our Oromo Women’s Networking Group, around 30 children were supported with their homework.

Can you tell me about the Wyndham Bright Young Leaders (WBYL) program?

How does being an associate member of the Committee for Wyndham assist you?

WBYL was my idea but I brought the idea to Ruth Mihelcic, a team leader at the Penrose Promenade Community Centre. She really liked my idea and supported me to set it up. I decided to open to diverse people because I believe every child needs this leadership program, to be a part of. Also, I committed to continuing this program to help our children to use all opportunities that we didn’t get.

The benefit I get is that I started dreaming to study more and to understand about leadership, to make a difference because I am connected with open-minded people. Would you like to add anything else? It’s really a great place to be, but in Wyndham there is something missing, and that is job opportunities.

Rahima Ahmed (centre, back row) with children of members of the Oromo Women’s Networking Group. (Supplied)

UPDATE ON THE WEST GATE TUNNEL PROJECT The West Gate Tunnel Project is using the summer months to carry out significant works while traffic volumes are reduced. In January, we demolished the eastern half of the Grieve Parade bridge originally built in the 1970s, in order to rebuild a stronger structure, which will span the width of the newly widened West Gate Freeway. As we finish rebuilding the bridge, there are reduced lanes on Grieve Parade over the freeway until 22 March. Currently, we are working around-the-clock at several M80 interchange ramps to increase the bridge clearances, replace ageing barriers and bearings on the bridges, and repave the surrounding ramps. During this work, ramps are closed for drivers including: New noise walls along the West Gate Freeway

• Princes Freeway to Geelong Road ramps in both directions – until 22 February • M80 Ring Road exit ramp to the West Gate Freeway inbound – until 22 February Detours are in place during these works, and drivers are advised to plan for delays of up to 30 minutes on the West Gate Freeway, Princes Freeway, and M80 Ring Road. These works are part of signiﬁcant upgrades to the West Gate Freeway, including adding four additional lanes between Williamstown Road and the M80 Ring Road, that will bring new connections from the west to the port, CityLink and the city. We acknowledge this work can be disruptive and we thank drivers and people who live on the detour routes in use, for their ongoing patience. Noise Walls

Over 9km of new noise walls will be installed by the project, including sections recently installed at Spotswood and Yarraville. The noise walls design uses textured concrete and acrylic panels of pale blues and greens, which allow light to pass through. Where space permits, planting will also be used to screen the noise walls. These new noise walls will provide a signiﬁcant reduction of noise for inner west communities.

The West Gate Tunnel Project is building some of the best quality noise walls ever seen in Victoria to achieve a new standard of noise reduction for residents along the freeway corridor.

Translation service – For languages other than English, please call 13 14 50. Please contact us if you would like this information in an accessible format. If you need assistance because of a hearing or speech impairment, please visit relayservice.gov.au

10 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 3 February, 2021

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NEWS

Childcare providers shut down By Alesha Capone More than 20 childcare operators in Wyndham were forced to close between 2018 and 2020 after having their provider approval revoked, according to data from the website of the Department of Education and Training Victoria (DETV). One operator has been prosecuted after two children left the service without the knowledge

of staff, ran onto busy Ballan Road and were returned by members of the public in March 2019, according to the website. Early Childhood Management Services Inc, was issued with a good behaviour bond by the Magistrates Court in October for the incident. DETV documents reveal that the court found there “was inadequate supervision and a failure to ensure the safety, health and wellbeing of children” at the centre.

In July last year, Wellbeing Family Day Care in Little River had its provider approval cancelled after it “breached a condition”. In May last year, Dreamland Family Day Care Services – which was located Sayers Road, Truganina – had its approval cancelled because an “approved provider or a person with management or control (was) not a fit and proper person to be involved in the provision of an education and care”.

Living with cancer inspires new play Werribee playwright Alaine Beek has drawn on her experience of being diagnosed with breast cancer as inspiration for her latest show. Jack and Millie, which will premiere at the Saltwater Community Centre Amphitheatre this month, explores both the mental challenges and light-hearted moments of living with cancer. Ms Beek said she was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2011. This Tuesday, she attended her 10-year medical check-up. Ms Beek said that she and other members of her theatre company, Essence Productions, collaborated on the script for Jack and Millie. Some of the team have experienced cancer themselves, including director Nigel Sutton, who has recently completed treatment for prostate cancer. Ms Beek, who is acting in and producing the show, said the play aimed to engage with people who have not experienced cancer or a loved one being diagnosed with the illness, as well as those who have been affected by the illness. “It’s a positive perspective on dealing with cancer, it’s not a doom and gloom story,” she said. “After your experience with cancer and the constant worry, you come out the other end and think, ‘It’s OK, I can do this’.” Ms Beek said she wanted to raise awareness of the Saltwater Community Centre Amphitheatre, which has been designed especially for outdoor productions. “I was quite excited when I came across an empty theatre – there are almost no performing spaces in Wyndham,” she said. Jack and Millie will run Wednesday, February 17 to Saturday, February 27. The show begins 8pm at the Saltwater Community Centre Amphitheatre, 153 Saltwater Promenade, Point Cook. Tickets: $35. Bookings: www.essenceproductions.com.au/ jackandmillie

The provider also breached the conditions of its approval. During April 2020, Growing Stars Family Day Care in Truganina, had its approval cancelled for breaching its conditions. Three other Truganina childcare providers, six Tarneit operators, four in Hoppers Crossing, three in Point Cook and a Werribee operator and a Williams Landing provider have all been stripped of their approval.

Shared paths better connect Tarneit Wyndham council has finished constructing 2.5 kilometres of shared paths in Tarneit. Mayor Adele Hegedich said the project included several upgrades along the Melbourne Water pipe track reserve, including a new shared path link through Goddard Street Reserve, a new section of path on Thwaites Road and improved road crossings at Toucan Road, Thwaites Road, Tableland Road, Penrose Promenade, Brinbrook Street, Crossway Avenue and Wilandra Drive. “This Wyndham city project makes it easier for residents to get to Tarneit train station, the Tarneit Community Centre and Julia Gillard Library, Penrose Community Centre and nearby shops and schools without having to drive,” Cr Hegedich said. “In particular, this provides Tarneit train station commuters with a hassle-free way to get to and from the station – all the more important as COVID-19 restrictions are lifted and we start to return to our workplaces. “It also provides Tarneit residents with new opportunities to walk or cycle to nearby landmarks without needing to battle traffic.” Wyndham’s city design portfolio holder, Cr Josh Gilligan, said the project was an example of the work which council is doing through the Wyndham Active Transport Strategy. “The strategy aims to turn walking and cycling into a genuine transport mode of choice for residents going about their daily business, making it easier for our residents to get from A to B by connecting the missing links in our walking and cycling paths,” Cr Gilligan said. “These shared path upgrades will help take cars off our roads and give the growing Tarneit community more travel options.” Details: https://www.wyndham.vic. gov.au/project/active-transport-network

Jack and Millie cast members Alaine Beek (centre), Jennifer Vuletic (back) and Phil Cameron-Smith, in his character’s many guises. (Supplied/David Mullins)

New season kick-off for ‘world game’ Soccer balls will be flying and skills refreshed as newly-merged Wyndham FC kicks off with an open day this weekend. The club, which has been formed by the merger of the senior Wyndham United and junior Wyndham Vale soccer clubs late last year, invites prospective members and community to have a look at the club and its facilities. Western United has provided an inflatable target for shooting practice on the day, while the club’s experienced coaches will pass on tips and tricks to youngsters during a variety of drills and games. The day is for children between five and 15,

and their families. There will be a barbecue held on the day. The club’s senior team will this season play in Football Victoria’s state league 5 competition. It will also have a reserve team, metro men’s, under-20s, juniors and MiniRoos sides. President Trevor Bowen said a group of dedicated volunteer committee members had worked tirelessly to bring the two clubs together. “The club aims to bring soccer back to the community by creating a safe, affordable opportunity for players of all ages, social, cultural and ethnic backgrounds to partake in the world game,” he said.

“We’re keen to create a footballing pathway for boys and girls in Wyndham that provides players with solid technical coaching – with a strong emphasis on fun and participation – which enables them to develop and grow through to our senior sides.” For more information about the open day which is on Sunday between 10am-2pm at Wyndham Vale North Oval, head to wyndhamfc.com.au or email info@ wyndhamunitedsc.com.au. Wyndham FC warms up for the season. (Pogue Tocher) 11 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 3 February, 2021

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Behind the iron fence One of the west’s historic gems, home to rare flora and fauna behind a corrugated iron fence, will this weekend open to the public for the first time in a year. Goya Dmytryshchak reports.

he Truganina Explosives Reserve at Altona reopens on Saturday for World Wetlands Day and on Sunday for guided tours. Once used to store explosives for civilian use such as mining and quarrying, the reserve operated from 1901-62 and is home to flourishing wildlife untouched for decades. The reserve includes the keeper’s residence built in 1897, underkeeper’s quarters from 1915, 16.5 hectares of salt marsh and sand dunes, remnants from the magazine, an explosive testing shelter and tramway lines used to transport explosives. Truganina Explosives Reserve Preservation Society treasurer, Ralph Coghill, said the group began restoring the keeper’s quarters more than five years ago. “We’ve now commenced restoring the underkeeper’s, and during all of that time we’ve also been maintaining and improving the heritage ornamental gardens,” he said. “We’ve also established a demonstration vegetable garden.” The site has a new boardwalk winding around a water-storage tank, built in case of fires, and former laboratory buildings. “This place was used for the storage and distribution of explosives for civilian use, so things like dynamite and gelignite,” Mr Coghill said. “Explosives were taken out of here on the trams and there was a pier that went straight out into the bay – it was 100 metres longer than the existing Altona pier. “The fence is a very important part of the heritage of this place. “During the First World War and the Second World War, the military did commandeer the place and the fence along Queen Street was painted in camouflage paint.” Hobsons Bay council’s conservation team leader Frank Fardell said his vision was to return the site to a sheoak forest, providing a habitat for diverse species of animals. “I think what people would find surprising is, there’s five species of micro-bats that have been recorded within the reserve,” he said. “These are small bats that would fit in the size of your palm and they feed on mosquitoes and moths and beetles. “They don’t necessarily all live in caves … a lot of them live in fissures of bark.” The site also attracts the rare Altona skipper butterfly and leads to the Cheetham Wetlands, which is internationally recognised under the Ramsar environmental treaty and is home to more than 200 bird species. Hobsons Bay Wetlands Centre is hosting events for World Wetlands Day, on Saturday, February 6, from 11am-3pm. For details, visit the Hobsons Bay Wetlands Centre page on Facebook. The reserve, at 274 Queen Street, Altona, will be open on the first Sunday of each month for guided tours from 1-4pm, starting Sunday, February 7.

12 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 3 February, 2021

Above: Truganina Explosives Reserve Preservation Society treasurer Ralph Coghill. Left: Hobsons Bay council’s conservation team leader Frank Fardell. Below: There were formerly 55 earth mounds such as this one, containing buildings storing explosives. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 225821

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COMMUNITY

COMMUNITY CALENDAR WANT YOUR EVENT LISTED? Community Calendar is made available free of charge to not-for-profit organisations to keep the public informed of special events and activities. Send item details to Star Weekly Community Calendar, Corner Thomsons Road and Keilor Park Drive, Keilor Park, 3042, or email to westeditorial@starweekly.com.au. Deadline for copy and announcements is 9am Wednesday the week prior to publication.

In2TennisBrimbank Enjoy a social hit of tennis at Sunshine Park Tennis Club, from 7pm on February 10 and 17. The competition is a round-robin format giving every player the chance to play multiple matches. Free. ■ Email: sport@brimbank.vic.gov.au

Book chat Discuss your favourite reads in the new Brimbank Libraries After Hours Book Chat. Zoom in to chat about your favourite book, one you are currently reading, or maybe something new! Register to be part of the conversation. All you will need is an internet-enabled computer, tablet or smartphone. The Brimbank Libraries After Hours Book Chat will be held 6.30pm-7.30pm on the first Wednesday of the month. First chat, February 3. ■ 9249 4640

Connecting community

Through the lens

Williamstown Community and Education Centre is hosting a ‘Neighbourhood Connect’ initiative to build community connectedness. Free workshops and mentoring provided. Attend the first workshops on Wednesday, February 17 at 6.30pm or Friday, February 19, at 12.30pm, at Joan Kirner House, 14 Thompson Street, Williamstown. ■ Irene, 0413 706 233

StarWeekly photographer Damjan Janevski had a bit of fun at a recent photo shoot for St Albans Tennis Club. Tennis balls with a black dot on them were perfect for kids hamming it up for the camera.

Probus Club The Probus Club of Werribee meets on the fourth Monday of each month at Werribee Bowls Club, with the first meeting for 2021 to be held in February. Visitors welcome. ■ Gary, 0420 491 182

Coffee time

Play footy St Albans Football Club’s junior registration day is on Sunday, February 7, 11am-2pm at St Albans Sports Club. The footy club will also host a Football for Players with Disability (FIDA) come and try day on Sunday, February 14, from 10-11.30am at Kings Park Reserve.

Registration day Taylors Lakes Junior Football Club’s registration and mouthguard fitting day is on Wednesday, February 10, 3.30-6.30pm at Lionheart Reserve. New players welcome for under-8, under-10, under-12, under-14 and under-16 boys and girls teams. Under-18.5 males and females also welcome.

Your pictures

Immunisation sessions Attend free immunisation sessions at Manna Gum Family and Children’s Centre, 71 Robertson Street, Gisborne on Thursday, February 4, 9.15-10.15am. All children and adults required to remain at the venue for at least 15 minutes after receiving any vaccination. Anyone who is feeling unwell or has travelled overseas in the past 14 days cannot attend a session.

Hanging Rock night walks Discover gliders, wallabies, native birds

and more at night walks at Hanging Rock. Guided walks start at 7pm on February 5 and March 12, and take about three hours. Bookings required. Cost: $62 per family or $25 per adult and $12 per child. ■ 5422 0387

Old Boys meet The Kyneton Marist Brothers Old Boys will meet on Wednesday, February 10 at St Mary’s Hall, 24 Hutton Street, Kyneton at 7.45pm. A memorial requiem will be held at Church of the Holy Rosary at 7pm.

Wanting to learn how to make coffee? Ready Set Work Barista is running a course at Keilor Downs on February 23 (online) and 24 (face-to-face work). In the course you will learn about the origins of coffee, how to operate commercial espresso machines and how to make a range of coffees. The course is being held at the Brimbank Bicycle Education Centre. ■ Jesuit Community College, 9415 8700.

Alcoholics Anonymous Regular face-to-face meetings of Alcoholics Anonymous have resumed. Meetings are held at St Thomas Anglican Church, 117 Synnot Street, Werribee, on Mondays from 7.30pm and St Andrew’s Church Hall, Williamstown, on Wednesdays from 7pm. ■ Werribee: 0412 432 760. For other face-to-face and Zoom meetings call 1300 22 22 22 or visit wwww.aatimes.org.au

Star Weekly readers share some of their favourite moments with family and friends.

(Pictures: Carl Sarelius)

Liz Ellis snapped these photos of the Werribee River at Riverbend Historical Park.

St Thomas Anglican Church Werribee held its first flag raising ceremony on its newly refurbished flagpole on Australia Day. The commemoration started with the acknowledgement of the traditional custodians and then all present sung the first verse of the national anthem, as a squad from the Werribee Half Battery raised the flag. MC Ron Bubeck reflected on Australia’s multicultural community. This was followed by a cooked breakfast and an Australia Day quiz in the church hall. Sherene Magana-Cruz, a COVID-19 survivor, reflected upon how lucky we are to live in this great country and its first class medical system with its dedicated health workers. It was the first opportunity church members have had to gather as a group to join in a meal and socialise since the COVID-19 pandemic hit.

Chelsea is excited to start her first year of kindergarten at Sunbury’s Dulap Wilim Hub. 13 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 3 February, 2021

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

40 years ago

30 years ago

20 years ago

10 years ago

February 4, 1981

February 6, 1991

January 31, 2001

February 2, 2011

Secret cutbacks in Government funding of the Melbourne Underground Rail Loop were this week blamed as being the cause of delays in the electrification of the Werribee railway line.

Werribee residents are being urged to speak up about drugs in the community during the Operation Noah phone-in on Wednesday 13 February. Vital information about drug related crime or drug traffickers supplied during the phone-in will be used by police in a bid to combat drug problems.

A Werribee man is angry that Greater Geelong council has rejected his controversial application for a clay target shooting range on Wyndham’s border with Geelong. Mr Eric Bullmore, who has been pushing for planning permission for his range since December 1999, accused the council of “trying to muddy” the waters by raising other issues.

Tuning in: Community radio rides the waves.

Hoppers Crossing Pacific Werribee Shopping Centre Heaths Road, Cnr Derrimut Road Hoppers Crossing Wyndham Library Heaths Road, Cnr Derrimut Road (Pacific Werribee Shopping Centre) Hoppers Crossing Werribee Plaza Tavern Heaths Road,(Pacific Werribee Shopping Centre) Hoppers Crossing Coles Supermarket 250 Heaths Road, (Pacific Werribee Shopping Centre) Hoppers Crossing JK Real Estate 203 Heaths Road Hoppers Crossing APCO Service Station 178 Morris Road Hoppers Crossing Hoppers Crossing Shopping Centre 24-48 Old Geelong Road Hoppers Crossing Woodville Park Shopping Centre Shop 20/70 Warringa Drive Hoppers Crossing IGA Plus Liquor Shop 4, 2-6 Deloraine Drive Hoppers Crossing Aqua Pulse Café 82 Derrimut Road Hoppers Crossing Coles Express 260 Derrimut Road (Cnr Hogans Road) Hoppers Crossing Hoppers Crossing Cricket Club Hogans Road - Hogans Road Reserve Hoppers Crossing Super Lotto Newsagency Shop 8/166 Hogans Road (Hogans Corner Shopping Centre) Hoppers Crossing Woolworths Supermarket Corner Hogans Road & Derrimut Road Hoppers Crossing Tigers Club House 70 Old Geelong Road Hoppers Crossing Costas Mitre 10 255-267 Old Geelong Road Manor Lakes Manor Lakes News & Lotto Shop 14, 455 Ballan Road Point Cook Featherbrook Shopping Centre 238 Boardwalk Boulevard Point Cook MICM Property Shop 2, 238 Boardwalk Boulevard Point Cook Wyndham Library Service Unit 1-21 Cheetham Street Point Cook Point Cook Pharmacy Shop 1-11 Dunnings Road Point Cook Jamieson Way Community Centre 59 Jamieson Way Point Cook Direct Chemist Outlet Shop 13, 15 Kenswick Street Point Cook First National Real Estate Shop 427,8 Main Street Point Cook Stockland Point Cook Shopping Centre Murnong Street Point Cook Saltwater Community Centre 153 Saltwater Promenade Point Cook Saltwater Coast Sales Office 261 Saltwater Promenade Point Cook The Brooks 215 Sneydes Road Point Cook Wyn City 36 Wallace Avenue Sanctuary Lakes Sanctuary Lakes Resort 72 Greg Norman Drive Sanctuary Lakes Sanctuary Lakes Shopping Centre 300 Point Cook Road Tarneit BP Service Station 410 Derrimut Road Tarneit Tarneit Central Shopping Centre 540 Derrimut Road Tarneit Brian Mark Real Estate Shop 18, 380 Sayers Road Tarneit Wyndham Village Shopping Centre 380 Sayers Road Tarneit Shell Service Station 380 Sayers Road Tarneit Barry Plant Real Estate Shop 9, 380 Sayers Road

Tarneit Community Centre 150 Sunset Views Boulevard Tarneit Serranos Cafe 747 Tarneit Road ( Tarneit Gardens SC ) Truganina Palm Lakes Resort 7 Taronga Road Truganina Arndell Park Community Centre 29-49 Federation Boulevard Werribee Eagles Stadium Café 35 Ballan Road Werribee Casaccio Egg Farm 170-198 Bulban Road Werribee IGA Supermarket - Werribee 92-94 Cottrell Street Werribee Italian Sports Club 601 Heaths Road Werribee The Womans Hub 236 Hoppers Lane Werribee St Vincent's Private Hospital 240 Hoppers Lane Werribee Wyndham City Council 45 Princes Highway Werribee Werribee Mercy Hospital (Coffee Shop) 300 Princes Highway Werribee Stockdale & Leggo Real Estate 15b/167-179 Shaws Road Werribee SIMS IGA Werribee Village Cnr Shaws & Tarneit Rd Werribee Hocking Stuart Real Estate 34 Station Place Werribee Westwoods First National 1 Synnot Street Werribee Werribee RSL 2A Synnot Street (Kelly Park) Werribee Cellarbrations 52-54 Vincent Crescent Werribee Bendigo Bank 42 Watton Street Werribee P. Di Natale Real Estate 44 Watton Street Werribee Coles Werribee 143 Watton Street Werribee Benlor Real Estate 175A Watton Street Werribee Wyndham Cultural Centre 177 Watton Street Werribee Professional Triwest 6A Watton Street Werribee Barry Plant Real Estate 21 Watton Street Werribee YPA Real Estate 1 Werribee Street Werribee Wyndham Private Medical Centre 242 Hoppers Lane Werribee South 104 Apartments and Housing Estate 50 Catamaran Boulevard Werribee South Werribee South General Store 785 Duncans Road Werribee South LT's Egg Farm 1 K Ave Werribee South Anglers Anchorage Take Away 67 O'Connors Road Williams Landing Williams Landing News, Lotto & Tobacco 100 Overton Road Williams Landing Woolworths 100 Overton Road (Williams Landing Shopping Centre) Wyndham Vale BP Service Station 210 Ballan Road Wyndham Vale Lotto and Newsagency 205 Greens Road (Wyndham Vale Square Shopping Centre) Wyndham Vale IGA Wyndham Vale 50 Honour Avenue Wyndham Vale Iramoo Community Centre 84 Honour Avenue Wyndham Vale Manor Lakes Community Learning Centre 86 Manor Lakes Boulevard Wyndham Vale 7 Eleven Wyndham Vale Corner McGrath Road & Ballan Road

Or, get your FREE Digital Editions, News Updates, Breaking News and competitions delivered to your email inbox.

14 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 3 February, 2021

12474529-CG50-20

Where to pick up your FREE WYNDHAM

FEATURING ... HEALTH & LIFESTYLE

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Celebrating three years of care for the local community St Vincent’s Private Hospital Werribee is excited to have been working with the local community for three years. Since opening in 2018, the purpose built facility has provided high-quality healthcare to almost 13,000 patients and performed more than 8000 surgical procedures. The hospital has been designed and built to meet the pressing healthcare needs of Melbourne’s outer-western suburbs, becoming one of the region’s most modern acute care private hospitals. St Vincent’s Private Hospital Werribee is conveniently located in the Hoppers Lane health precinct opposite the Werribee Mercy Hospital. The hospital offers an extensive range of health services to help support the local community to access care closer to home. St Vincent’s Private Werribee has been future-proofed with the capacity to treat more than 16,000 patients a year, consisting of 112 beds, six operating theatres, a sleep studies unit and a Cardiac Catheter Laboratory. Providing the highest quality healthcare with modern facilities and the latest technology, St Vincent’s Private Werribee specialises in a range of core medical and surgical services including orthopaedics, cardiology, spinal neurosurgery and general surgery. Other key services include rehabilitation, gynaecology, day oncology and ear, nose and throat surgery. St Vincent’s Private Hospital Werribee’s General Manager and Director of Clinical Services, Libby Fifis, said that in addition to the extensive range of clinical services, the hospital prides itself on providing high quality patient centered care. “St Vincent’s Private Werribee uses the internationally recognised Net Promoter Score

ENT surgeon Mr Muthu Subramaniyan and Theatre Nurse Manager Chloe Martinich. (Joe Mastroianni)

to measure patient experience. Scores between 70 and 100 are considered world-class, and since opening, our results consistently fall within that range.” In addition to inpatient services, the community can access an extensive range of medical specialists in the hospitals consulting

rooms. The full range of specialists and services can be found on the hospital website. St Vincent’s Werribee is proud of the strong connection it has developed with the community during the past three years and will continue its work with other local health

providers to support the growing health needs of Melbourne’s west. St Vincent’s Private Hospital Werribee, 240 Hoppers Lane, Werribee. Inquiries: 9218 8000 or visit www.svphw.org.au

Celebrating 3 years of quality care for the local community St Vincent’s Private Werribee – proudly serving the health needs of Melbourne’s West

Specialising in Orthopaedics, Cardiology, Neurosurgery, and General Surgery For all enquiries please contact us on: (03) 9218 8000 Website: svphw.org.au Address: 240 Hoppers Ln, Werribee VIC 3030 12480465-RC06-21

15 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 3 February, 2021

PUZZLES No. 014

To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.

easy

8 2 1 5

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

5 9 3 4 6 1 6 7

medium

1 4

2 4 6 1

DOWN

Organises (5) Person suffering from a fit-causing disorder (9) Mover (7) More exciting; more fragrant (7) Spellcaster (9) Name of artistic work (5) Salt and pepper dispensers (7) Interments (7) Crossing; corridor (7) Went around the edge (7) Not affected by alcohol (5) Unwanted (9) Perspective (7) Fill; surround (7) Covered; protected (9) Cycles (5)

9 10 11 12 13 15 17 19 22 24 26 27 28 29

Female siblings (7) Ponchos; macks (9) Position; move into place (7) White-plumed heron (5) Writes in stone or metal (9) Broadcaster; polluter (7) Turn (5) Rugs (7) Cave explorer (9) Later (9) Priests (7) Transport hub (7) Risk prevention entity (7) Hobbles; falters (7) Wash (5) Bamboozled (5)

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 14 16 17 18 20 21 23 25

DECODER

No. 014

3 9 7 3 6 1 2

ACROSS 1 4

No. 014

8 5 4 2

7 8 2 4 6 1

QUICK CROSSWORD

3 1 hard

8 1

10 11 12 13

3 LETTERS ART CIA CPA DYE EBB EGG EGO ERA EVE GAS HEN IOU LAP MAS ODE OFF OIL OVA RAM RAW RUE SOB UGH ZIP

5 LETTERS AGENT ALIVE AROSE ARROW ARSON AURAL AVERT BENTS BERRY COCOA DWELT EATEN EERIE ELITE ELOPE ERECT GARBO GRAMS GRIPE LAPEL

S R N P B Z OU F V I C Y 1

Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural words ending in “s”.

Today’s Aim: 18 words: Good 28 words: Very good

3 5 2 8 4 1 7 6 9

8 6 2 1 9 7 4 5 3

6 7 8 1 2 5 9 4 3

9 3 5 4 8 6 2 7 1

7 4 2 5 3 6 8 9 1

8 6 3 9 4 1 7 5 2

2 3 4 6 7 5 1 8 9

5 9 8 4 1 2 3 7 6

1 7 6 3 8 9 4 2 5

4 8 9 2 6 7 5 1 3

3 5 1 8 9 4 2 6 7

6 2 7 1 5 3 9 4 8

1 3 7 6 4 5 2 9 8

5 2 1 3 6 8 9 4 7

6 4 8 2 7 9 3 1 5

9 7 3 5 1 4 8 2 6

2 1 6 9 8 3 5 7 4

7 8 5 4 2 1 6 3 9

3 9 4 7 5 6 1 8 2

In which year was Qantas founded?

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

What is Dorothy’s surname in the classic 1939 fantasy The Wizard of Oz?

Singer Christine Anu was born in which Australian state?

NOTE: more than one solution may be possible

James and Oliver Phelps play which characters in the Harry Potter film series?

What is the capital city of Jamaica?

In what year did Helsinki host the Summer Olympics?

16 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 3 February, 2021

8 LETTERS ASBESTOS ETHEREAL OUTHOUSE SPRINTER

T U P

6 LETTERS GIFTED HELMET LEDGER LIBELS

7 LETTERS ATTRACT CONTROL CORRECT HERSELF RAPTURE RECLINE

What sport would you be playing if you were using an épée?

L L A M A E A R E D A M I N O

2 1 4 3 9 7 8 5 6

SPENT STABS STUCK THOUS TOTED TREAD TRIBE TRIPE VITAL

No. 014

R Y S

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

LATCH LEVEL MANIA MARIA MESSY ODOUR PANIC PEONS PRAYS PRONG RASPS RECAP RENDS RENEW RESET ROLLS RORTS SEIZE SLEPT SLYLY SNARL

airy, aryl, aunty, early, entry, inertly, inlay, irately, laity, layer, lenity, litany, lyre, nary, nearly, neatly, rainy, reality, realty, relay, rely, riyal, teary, tiny, tray, trey, truly, tyre, unitary, unity, UNREALITY, yale, yarn, year, yearn, yeti, yuan, yule

7 4 9 2 6 3 5 1 8

No. 014

05-02-21

5 9 6 7 1 8 4 3 2

4 LETTERS AWES COBS GABS MANE OKED ONTO PILE RAGS RAMS SECT SWAY TAME TART TRAY

QUICK QUIZ

The disease arteriosclerosis is also referred to as hardening of the what?

What is the literal meaning of the German word “Volkswagen”?

4 8 7 6 3 2 1 9 5

9 1 5 7 2 8 6 3 4

1 2 3 9 5 4 6 8 7

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

38 words: Excellent

9-LETTER WORD

Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

T H J L MDWQ G A E X K

medium

X K

easy

hard

5x5

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

WORDFIT

10 Musician Norman Cook (pictured) is best known by what stage name? ANSWERS: 1. Fencing 2. Gale 3. Fred and George Weasley 4. Arteries 5. People’s car 6. 1920 7. Queensland (Cairns) 8. Kingston 9. 1952 10. Fatboy Slim

SUDOKU

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

SECTION

VISIT OUR NEW WALDORF GR ANGE 49

Enter a world of luxury. N O W O N D I S P L AY AT A LT O N A

F I N D

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17 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 3 February, 2021

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19 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 3 February, 2021

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Dualis and Qashqai 2008 - 2019 By Ewan Kennedy, Marque Motoring

The 2008 Nissan Dualis, 2012 Nissan Dualis +2, and 2017 Nissan Qashqai. (Pictures: Supplied)

Nissan Dualis was originally powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine by way of a six-speed manual gearbox, or a CVT auto with pre-selected ratios that can be operated manually if you’re not happy with the computer’s decisions. Try for yourself during your private test drive as some will find performance is marginal. Qashqai also has a 2.0-litre naturally-aspirated engine, but with added power and torque than the Dualis. A 1.6-litre turbo-diesel was introduced in April 2013, but only has a six-speed manual gearbox. It wasn’t a sales success but is an honest unit and it may be worth hunting one down if you’re planning long trips in remote areas where the extra range of a diesel can be important. Nissan (nee Datsun) has been operating in Australia since the mid-1960s. It built cars here for many years and is well and truly an established part of the Down Under scene. There are plenty of Nissan dealers Australia-wide, with stronger than average representation in the country areas due to the long-time importation of tough 4WDs in the

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Expect to pay from $4000 to $7000 for a 2008 Nissan Dualis ST; $6000 to $10,000 for a 2009 Dualis Ti or a 2011 ST; $10,000 to $15,000 for a 2013 Dualis +2 Ti-L; $11,000 to $16,000 for a 2015 Dualis +2 Ti-L or a 2015 Qashqai TS; $13,000 to $19,000 for a 2015 Qashqai TL; $15,000 to $22,000 for a 2017 ST-L; and $18,000 to $26,000 for a 2018 Qashqai N-TEC.

Car buying tip Drive several examples of the type of car you’re considering to get a feel of how they handle.

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Signs of off-road use are generally considered a no-no in a light-duty SUV. Scratches on the guards or doors; scuffs on the bumper corners; dings under the bumpers; and in particular damage to the sump may mean you should back off the purchase. Then again, if the price is

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ADVERTISERS, in this section are qualified practi- DEAR heart of Jesus, in tioners and offer non- the past I have asked for many favours. This time I sexual services. ask you, this very special one (mentioned favour). V Pets & Services Take it, the dear heart of Jesus, and place it with ADVERTISERS your own broken heart, PLEASE NOTE where your father sees it. Anyone advertising a puppy, Then in his merciful eyes, dog, kitten or cat in Victoria for sale or re-homing will need it will become your favour, not mine. Amen. Say a source number from the for three days, promise Pet Exchange Register and a microchip publication, and your identiﬁcation number. favour will be granted. It is now an offence to advertise unless the source number and microchip identiﬁcation number is included in the advertisement or notice. For further information, call 136 186 or visit animalwelfare.vic.gov.au

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right and you’re a mechanic it might be worth going for one. Feel for any roughness in a CVT, if it’s not smooth as silk have an experienced transmission specialist check it out. Manuals should be smooth and easy in their gear changes. Any hanging up or noise during changes may mean problems, either in the gearbox or the clutch. Check the interior and the boot for signs of hard usage. Kids can wreak havoc on the backs of the seats in front of them if they get crabby.

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Patrols and Navaras. Getting unusual parts for the Dualis may take a few days if you have trouble in the outback, but shouldn’t normally take more than two or three business days. Prices for Dualis parts are about average for this class. Dualis has a reasonably simple makeup and amateur gals and guys with a mechanical bent can do a fair bit of their own work. Don’t touch the safety bits, though. Having originally shunned the name Qashqai that was used on other markets, Nissan Australia surprised us by choosing to use the Qashqai tag when the new generation ‘Dualis’ was introduced here in July 2014. Or perhaps the company’s head office was still smarting over the failed Pulsar / Tiida / Pulsar experiment…

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The ‘dual’ in Nissan Dualis signifies its dual-purpose nature, a crossover between a family hatchback and a compact 4WD. It has Nissan’s All-mode transmission so has decent traction on bush tracks, as well as on slippery sealed surfaces. It has higher than average ground clearance for a hatchback, but it isn’t as high as a ‘real’ 4WD. Nissan gave the Dualis a major makeover in April 2010. Every visible body component forward of the windscreen was new, with the revised bonnet giving it a bolder look and improved aerodynamics. Inside, the visual changes are minor, but the instruments and trip computer are easier to see. Late in 2010 an extended wheelbase seven-seat version, called Dualis +2 was introduced. Children will be more comfortable than adults in the rearmost seats, seven full-size folks can be carted in emergencies. The second-row seats can be moved forward to make access to the back reasonably easy. This sliding function also lets you juggle legroom in all three rows. Comfort of the Dualis is good and even poor-quality Aussie backroads don’t knock it about much. Handling is nothing out of the ordinary. It will look after you unless you do something really silly. Just don’t expect a sporty Euro SUV at a Japanese price. With the introduction of the second generation in Australia in 2014 the Dualis was given the name of Qashqai which had been used in other countries for many years. Qashqai got a mild facelift late in 2018, an increased range of driver-assistance technologies, and autonomous emergency braking in all model. Lane-departure warning assisted drivers who aren’t paying attention.

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Gladiator fired up to take on all-comers

Jeep calls on Gladiator to shake up the heavyweight pickup truck market. (Pictures: Supplied)

By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring

AT A GLANCE

Few vehicles live up to their title better than the new Gladiator. Just like the movie of the same name was a widescreen epic of Roman times, the eponymous Jeep is a larger-than-life depiction of the pickup version of the Wrangler SUV. And while Gladiator star Russell Crowe carries off the traditions of the Hollywood heart-throb, so the titular one-of-a-kind convertible truck does likewise with the rich heritage of the popular Jeep. Jeep pickups date back to 1947, with the Gladiator debuting Down Under in 1963, and as the only convertible truck of its kind, now comes to Australia. Ours is the first right-hand drive market in the world to receive it. Available as the well-equipped entry-level Overland and superior-specified Rubicon the dual-cab with tub serves up good on-road manners and excellent off-road performance with an unmatched open-air feeling of freedom with its detachable roof panels. Every Gladiator earns Trail Rated badging, which speaks to the vehicle’s superior off-road capabilities. Prices start at $75,450, plus on-road costs, for the Overland and nudge up to $75,450 for the Rubicon. The Overland can be fitted with a Lifestyle Adventure Package, at $3835, consisting of cargo versatility with trail rail system, lockable rear under-seat storage bin, roll-up material tonneau cover, spray-on bedliner, aux switch bank (four programable), 240A alternator, 700A maintenance-free battery and Bluetooth wireless speaker. One-hundred examples of a Gladiator Launch Edition are also on offer at $86,450. Each includes all Rubicon advantages and Lifestyle Adventure package, plus unique badging, wheels and interior highlights. The Gladiator is covered by Jeep’s five-year unlimited kilometre warranty, capped price servicing and 24-hour roadside assistance.

MODEL RANGE

Styling Based on an extended JL Wrangler, the Gladiator is a dual-cab with a 5-foot tub. Maintaining the Jeep design DNA are a removable body-colour matched Freedom roof

Jeep Gladiator Overland 3.6L V6 $75,450 Jeep Gladiator Rubicon 3.6L V6 $76,450 Jeep Gladiator Launch Edition 3.6L V6 $86,450

Safety The Gladiator boasts more than 70 active and passive safety features including Forward Collision Warning Plus, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, rear camera with dynamic guidelines, forward view off-road camera, adaptive cruise control, and electronic stability control with electronic roll mitigation.

Premium paint $1035 Lifestyle Adventure package $3835

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

panels and fender flares. Never-the-less, features are fit for purpose. The traditional seven-slot radiator grille openings have been widened to allow added air intake to cope with up to 2721kg braked trailer towing capacity. Wrangler’s removable body-colour Freedom roof panels are retained and four bolts at the top of the windscreen allow it to be folded, while the header bar between the A-pillars remains in place. Lightweight aluminium doors can also be taken off using one of the special tools supplied for the operations above. LED headlamps and tail-lights, together with foglights and daytime running lights, present a modern look all round, while under-rail lighting in the tub highlights the optional Rail Trail system designed to keep varying loads safe and secure. The Gladiator Overland gets around on 18-inch alloy wheels housed under body-colour fender flares and comes in a choice of seven standard Jeep colours, or Gobi and Gator, which are exclusive to Gladiator.

the roof and doors are removed. The centre console features metal highlights and is home to gearshift and transfer case levers and handbrake. Bolts on the shift, grab handles and infotainment screen surrounds emphasise Gladiator’s solid construction character.

Infotainment The 8.4-inch dash-mounted touchscreen announces Jeep’s fourth-generation Uconnect 4 system and is located on top of the centre stack. Improvements include quicker start-up times and better screen resolution. Satellite navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard and a nine-speaker Alpine premium audio, plus a separate 7-inch multi-view driver information display, make up an extensive equipment list. A portable Bluetooth wireless speaker behind the rear seat is also available. The ability to charge up to three additional devices is a boon in remote locations. A further confidence booster out bush, standard on Rubicon, is a forward-facing camera, which can clearly pick out obstacles ahead.

Interior Inside are McKinley leather seats with Overland logo. Front seats are heated, as is the sports-style steering wheel. Rear seat backs can be folded to make available an illuminated storage spot, which includes a net to secure items to the cab back wall. The seat cushions fold up to reveal space for an optional lockable storage bin for use when

Engines / transmissions The Gladiator makes use of Jeep’s proven 3.6-litre Pentastar engine putting out 209 kW of power and 347 Nm across a wide torque band, the latter necessary for work in extreme situations off road. It has an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission.

Driving As far as driving is concerned the Gladiator belies its bulk, which is highlighted by its 13.6-metre turning circle. On the road it behaves like a much smaller vehicle, keeping up with traffic even in stop-start going in town. On the highway, the long wheelbase (3488 mm) ensures the pickup irons out any blemishes in road surfaces, the well-tuned suspension and cabin comfort providing little occupants can complain about. As for fuel consumption, the story is not so comfortable, though not unexpected for the powertrain in use. Jeep claims a combined urban / highway petrol consumption of 11.2 litres per 100 kilometres for the Gladiator. On test, the Overland chalked up 7.6 litres per 100 kilometres cruising on motorways, while it reached 15 litres per 100 around town. Off-road help comes in the shape of Selec-Speed Control, standard with the eight-speed tranny. This manages vehicle speed in ‘4LO’ during heavy going without the driver having to use the accelerator or brake. Selec-Speed is activated via a button on the dash and can be varied between one and 8 km/h using the AutoStick shift. The ingenious roll-up tonneau cover, which incorporates metal crossmembers, works a treat to cover loads taking up varying amounts of tub space. Well done, Jeep.

Summing up While the Overland is capable of taking on a variety of extreme off-road conditions, for those keen to press on to the ultimate test, the added investment in the Rubicon, with its rock-hopping ability, would appear worthwhile. 21 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 3 February, 2021

SPORT STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Have an active Valentine’s Day Valentine’s Day can conjure up romantic images of chocolates, Champagne and candlelit dinners. If this is your usual MO for the day to celebrate love, then why not try something different this year and have an active Valentine’s Day? There are many ways you can enjoy an active day with those you love, and organising a walk with a picnic could be one of the most simple! There are so many amazing short walks around Melbourne (see www.victoriawalks. org.au/Best_Melbourne_Walks/ for some inspiration). Pack your own picnic lunch, or use a pre-made picnic hamper service to keep it even easier and fuss free. Be sure to check the weather conditions before you head out, and if you do choose to venture into the bush, then check out www.parks.vic.gov.au/ for any changes in conditions. If walking is not really your thing, then why not relive your youth and go roller skating? There are still rinks around Melbourne – just be sure to check if you have to book ahead and bring your own skates or blades due to current COVID-19 restrictions. Even just half an hour of blading or skating will have you feeling invigorated, and give you that burn in your legs! Another great indoor activity for an active Valentine’s Day is rock climbing. Rock climbing will have you challenging yourself physically and relying on clear communication with your

Enjoy a walk and a picnic with someone you love. (iStock)

partner as you ascend and descend the walls. If heights are not your thing, then why not try a game for partners, such as tennis or squash? Most tennis and squash clubs will allow public hire of courts. Another game to play with your partner could be lawn bowls, or bare foot bowling. Again, most clubs will allow for public hire of greens and you may or may not have to supply your own bowls. This is a lower impact game than tennis – and you could check out whether or not the bar really does have 1975 prices.

Or maybe water activities are more your scene – imagine going for a paddle boat ride on a light-dappled lake, or rowing a boat along a glass smooth river? Or how about a surfing lesson or even just a body board at your local beach (again, be sure to check conditions). If you’d prefer to keep your feet dry, but moving, a dance class might be more in your lane. Learning a few new dance moves and steps is great exercise for the body and mind, and will give you much-needed time with your partner.

And you’ll have a new skill to share together! The truth of it is, there are many active ways to enjoy time with those you love. We have so many amazing outdoor spaces around us, and some pretty great indoor activities too. Being active together can help deepen your connections with others, from the shared experience to the exhilaration of physical activity. You’ll make many new memories, and may even have something to look back on to laugh at over the years!

SPORTS QUIZ 1. Which sporting team in Australia has the most members? 2. Which Swedish tennis player won the 2002 Australian Open? 3. Which two countries competed in the 2018 FIFA World Cup Final? 4. How many F1 world championships did Sir Jack Brabham win? 5. Which cricket team won the first BBL in 2011/2012?

6. Aussie Sally Pearson won a gold medal at which event at the 2012 London Olympic Games? 7. Which actor featured in two baseball-related films in the late 1980s? 8. How many Rugby Union World Cups has Australia won? 9. Which driver holds the record for the most podiums at the Bathurst 1000? 10. Which team won the first two Suncorp Super Netball titles in 2017 and 2018? 11. Which US-born Australian golf professional had a career-high world ranking of 16 in April 2008? 12. Australia’s women’s national rugby union team is known by what nickname? 13. Which retired Queensland-born motorcycle racer was MotoGP World Champion in 2007 and 2011?

14. Which rugby league team has won the premiership in all three seasons of the NRL Women's Premiership competition so far?

Water Polo at the Olympics

15. Which Australian athlete ended their Olympic career with a total of five gold medals, three silver and one bronze? 16. Which Big Bash League cricket team is based in Western Australia? 17. Which current NFL quarterback was selected with the 199th overall pick in the sixth round of the 2000 NFL Draft?

22. Which tennis player is second on the WTA Tour rankings behind Ash Barty?

27. What is the only US city where all of their major sports teams all wear the same colours?

18. Which AFL team played its first game in 1991?

23. Which team finished on the bottom of the 202021 Big Bash League table?

28. Including 2021's Super Bowl LV, how many times has quarterback Tom Brady appeared in a Super Bowl?

19. Which NBA team did Australian basketballer Mark Bradtke play for during the 1996–97 NBA season? 20. Which racecourse is home to The Everest, the richest horse race in Australia? 21. What two teams played in the first ever AFL Women's premiership game?

24. Who defeated Conor McGregor in their Lightweight bout at UFC 257? 25. Who will captain Australia during their Twenty20 tour of New Zealand? 26. Which US state made an offer to host the 2021 Olympics if Japan decided not to host the event?

29. In what year did water polo make its Olympic debut? 30. Traditionally, the shortest player on a basketball team plays in what position?

Tom Brady 0502

1. West Coast Eagles Football Club 2. Thomas Johansson 3. France and Croatia 4. Three (1959, 1960 and 1966) 5. Sydney Sixers 6. 100m hurdles 7. Kevin Costner 8. Two (1991 and 1999) 9. Craig Lowndes 10. Sunshine Coast Lightning 11. Aaron Baddeley 12. Wallaroos 13. Casey Stoner. 14. Brisbane Broncos 15. Ian Thorpe 16. Perth Scorchers 17. Tom Brady 18. Adelaide Crows 19. Philadelphia 76ers 20. Randwick 21. Carlton and Collingwood 22. Simona Halep 23. Melbourne Renegades 24. Dustin Poirier 25. Aaron Finch 26. Florida 27. Pittsburgh 28. 10 29. 1900 30. Point guard

22 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 3 February, 2021

SPORT Ready for Big V return

Blake Henderson. (Shawn Smits)

By Tara Murray There’s plenty of excitement at the Altona Basketball Association as the Gators field a Big V women’s side for the first time since 2017. Having focused on the youth league women’s side in more recent times, the club now has the players to reform a women’s side. New coach Cameron Wilkosz said after some hard work behind the scenes, they were set to go. Wilkosz’s basketball journey is a well travelled one, with a role as lead assistant coach for the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology in Alberta Canada, WNBL Bendigo Spirit Academy head coach and head coach of the Bendigo Braves Victorian Youth Championship Women. “They had a few rough seasons and decided to focus on the kids,” he said of Altona. “There’s a lot of talent coming through the club. “It’s a credit to the club and who they are.

Now there’s kids travelling the world and playing at college.” Wilkosz said his experiences coaching against the club’s youth league side made it a no-brainer to apply for the women’s role when it came up. He’s of the view that the players who are stepping up into the women’s side are more than ready. “Randy Shanklin [coaching director and youth league women’s coach is an amazing coach and the opposing coach I was most close with,” he said. “Altona is a really good club. Altona just doesn’t put on the best spread after the game, they are a friendly club. “The kids are looking for feedback from opposition coaches. You didn’t get that at Bendigo. “I wanted to be a part of that.” Wilkosz said he had a certain way of coaching and the playing group was starting to adjust to his ways. He had been impressed by the team.

City signs key players Hume City has announced two key signings and a re-signing as it aims to remain at the top of the National Premier League ladder. Undefeated in 2020 before the season was cancelled due to COVID-19, City has again put together a strong squad. Last week it announced the signings of Jordan Maricic and Aden Gardner. Maricic, a former Adelaide United youth product who joins from Adelaide City, will partner Hayden Tennant in Hume’s defensive line-up. Gardner joins Hume from fellow NPL side Bentleigh Greens. He spent part of 2020 playing with the Brisbane Strikers while there was no soccer being played in Melbourne for much of last year. The midfielder brings a wealth of experience and has a keen eye for goal. The club also announced the re-signing of Theo Markelis. A fan favourite, Markelis has found the back of the net on plenty of occasions for Hume. The signings will help fill the gap of five players departing in the off season. Captain Harry Monaghan is the biggest name to depart, along with Paul Wilson, Gideon Sweet, Will Hendon and James Kapuranovski. Coach Nick Hegarty stated on the club’s Facebook page that everybody was trying to get back to where they were this season. He said this year was a new season, the league had changed and they had to look forward. The club is in the middle of its pre-season, having played a number of games including one against Melbourne Victory.

“After watching training, they’re not a team that will just float around.” Wilkosz said they would have a ‘one club’ mentality, with players from the youth league squad to be part of the senior side every week. “The idea is to use it as a stepping stone.“ Wilkosz said that not only were they excited by the two Big V teams but there was more talent coming through. He was expecting big things of the players coming through and they could see more players joining the college system. Wilkosz said the first aim this year for the women’s side was to get the side back up and develop a solid foundation. “We want to be more than competitive. Win, lose or draw it’s about being the toughest team on the court.” The Gators play their first practice match this weekend and are keen to get crowds back after COVID-19 forced the cancellation of Big V last year. The club is also looking for sponsors, for the team and players.

Kangaroos add experience The Sunbury Kangaroos has added some experience to its squad ahead of the Essendon District Football League division 1 season. Kangaroos coach Leigh Sporle said the club lost a number of its 2019 division 2 premiership players. “We have a pretty young list,” he said. “These guys we have gotten in for this season are proven players. “We have a good mix, but we still want to focus on the youth.” The Kangaroos have announced six new signings in the past couple of weeks. Ferras Merhi, Saad Saad and Sammy Saad are no strangers to the EDFL. Merhi has been a dominant ruckman for a number of teams, having won a premiership at Roxburgh Park and Hadfield. He will take the pressure off premiership ruckman Brenton Sutherland. Saad Saad is a well-known goalkicker, having kicked more than 900 goals in 10 seasons playing with Seymour. He has previously played in the EDFL. Sporle said in hisplast season, Saad kicked plenty of goals despite playing more in the midfield. Sammy Saad is also a premiership player at Hadfield and Roxburgh Park and will add something up forward. All three have previously played together. This week, the Kangaroos announced the signings of Nathan Davidson and Blake Henderson. Henderson has played with both Romsey and Melton Centrals in the Riddell District Football League. He can play back, forward or in the ruck, adding some flexibility to the side. Davidson will add another key target up forward. He has been playing in BlackRoad in recent seasons but is known to many Sunbury locals having played for Romsey previously. Another former RDFL player, Mark Freeth, who was set to join the Kangaroos for the 2020 season, has committed for 2021. Freeth was a key player for Diggers Rest for a number of years. Sporle said the club was still in talks with a couple of other players but had nearly completed its recruiting. This will be the Kangaroos’ first season in division 1 after last season was cancelled due to COVID-19. The group started training last week. Meanwhile, the Kangaroos are after women’s and under-18.5s players for this season. Contact Allan Walters: 0400 408 019. Tara Murray

Tara Murray

Theo Markelis is back for Hume City. (Shawn Smits) 23 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 3 February, 2021

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