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Characters given life A mural with a literary theme is being painted at Truganina South Primary School. Artist Daniel Burrowes has been painting the mural, featuring pupils’ favourite book characters, at the library near the school’s main entrance. “It’s a place where we encourage our students to build a love of reading whilst they immerse themselves in quality literature,” assistant school principal Cass Beckman said. “We wanted to invest in a piece of art which would make our library even more inviting for our students.” Ms Beckman said the school staff had spoken with pupils about which characters they would like to see included in the mural. “The characters they listed were Pig the Pug, Where’s Wally, Diary of a Whimpy Kid plus many, many more,” she said. “We presented our ideas to artist Daniel Burrowes and with his many talents he was able to create something that exceeded our expectations.”. MADDISON, ELIJAH, MIA AND ISLA WITH THEIR FAVOURITE BOOKS AND ARTIST DANIEL BURROWES

Alesha Capone

Stroke patient left waiting By Alesha Capone A Point Cook man has called for an investigation after he waited more than 90 minutes for an ambulance and 75 minutes to be admitted to a hospital bed following a stroke in January. Western Metropolitan MP Bernie Finn raised the incident in Parliament last month, after he was contacted by the stroke victim. Star Weekly has spoken with the 71-year-old man, who has a history of heart attacks and has previously undergone a triple bypass. The man, who asked to remain anonymous, said he was speaking to his son over the telephone on January 28, when he started to have difficulty talking. “Somehow I found my way into the lounge 12484234-CG10-21

room … I didn’t know what was happening to me,” the man said. He said his son arrived and called an ambulance about 4.20pm, but paramedics did not arrive until about 6pm. “I could’ve died 10 times in this time, if it was a serious stroke,” the man said. Paramedics diagnosed him as having a stroke and took him to Werribee Mercy Hospital. The man said he spent more than an hour waiting to be admitted to a hospital bed. The paramedics stayed with him during this time. The following day, the man’s wife drove him to the Epworth Hospital, where his cardiologist is based. He spent five nights at Epworth. The man said he wants an investigation so no one else has to go through a similar experience.

“I don’t blame the paramedics at all though, it’s not their fault,” he said. Mr Finn said he was “horrified” by the man’s experience. He said the state government had not kept pace with the growing demand for emergency services in Wyndham. “This is … threatening people’s lives and it’s gone on long enough.” A Mercy Health spokesperson said the man arrived at Werribee Mercy Hospital emergency department by ambulance at 6.53pm and was triaged and assessed within 29 minutes. “Due to the busy nature of the emergency department, the patient was required to wait 1 hour and 15 minutes before entering an emergency bed,” the spokesperson said. “While the patient’s standard of care was

in no way compromised and the patient was under observation and supervision of clinical staff at all times, we acknowledge that waiting can create anxiety and distress for patients and their loved ones.” The spokesperson said Werribee Mercy Hospital “continues to see growth in patients attending our emergency department which puts strain on infrastructure and staffing levels”. The man’s son has lodged a complaint with Ambulance Victoria. Ambulance Victoria quality and patient experience executive director Nicola Reinders said that feedback on care provided to patients was taken “very seriously” and each case “investigated thoroughly”.

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Wyndham to enter an residents are being invited which aims amateur photo comp to showcase etitio together how local n durin s came Non-proﬁ g the COVID-19 for Australast group, Bridge Buildpandemic. Wyndham ia (BBFA), is runn ers Stronger 2020 & Beyond, ing the You, Together Me, comp by Manor Lakes Com etition, supported initiative muni ty Fund, of the an BBFA presi Dennis Family Corporatio dent Melb the group n. a Waug document organised the phot h said o contest how Wynd a community to ham stood The comp during the pand strong as residents etition, for Wynd emic. aged 18 ham to images and older , whic is open h tell a visua hope, coura l story of or patience ge, innovation, resili and must ence between January 2020have been taken No digita and Marc l phot Cash prize o editing is allow h 2021. on March s are on offer. Entried. 31. es close Details: wixsite.co https://bbfaustralas m/mysite Australas , Bridge ia. Builders ia for wyndham@ on Facebook or email bbfa gmail.com .

Council ‘soap op era’

By Alesha

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competitio n. (Supplied)

Capone

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Wyndham Village Shopping Tarneit Shell Service Station 380 Centre 380 Sayers Road Sayers Road Station 380 Tarneit Shell Barry Service Plant Real Estate Sayers9,Road Shop 380 Sayers Road Tarneit Community Barry Plant Real Estate Tarneit Centre 150 Shop 9,Views 380 Sayers Road Sunset Boulevard Tarneit Serranos Community Centre 150 Tarneit Cafe 747 Tarneit Sunset( Tarneit Views Boulevard Road Gardens SC ) Tarneit Serranos Cafe 747 Tarneit Truganina Palm Lakes Resort 7 Road ( Tarneit Taronga Road Gardens SC ) Truganina Palm Lakes Resort 7 Truganina Arndell Park Community Taronga Road Centre 29-49 Federation Boulevard Truganina Arndell Park Community Werribee Eagles StadiumBoulevard Café 35 Centre 29-49 Federation Ballan Road Werribee Eagles Stadium Café 35 Werribee Casaccio Egg Farm 170Ballan Road 198 Bulban Road Egg Farm 170Werribee Casaccio Werribee IGA Supermarket 198 Bulban Road Werribee 92-94 Cottrell Street Werribee IGA Supermarket Werribee Italian Sports Club 601 92-94 Cottrell Street Heaths Road Werribee Italian Sports Club 601 Werribee The Womans Hub 236 Heaths Road Werribee The Womans Hub 236 Hoppers Lane Hoppers WerribeeLane St Vincent’s Private Werribee St Vincent’s Private Hospital 240 Hoppers Lane Hospital HoppersCity Lane Werribee240 Wyndham Council Werribee 45 PrincesWyndham Highway City Council 45 PrincesWerribee HighwayMercy Hospital Werribee Werribee Werribee Mercy Hospital (Coffee Shop) 300 Princes Highway (Coffee Shop) 300 Princes Highway Werribee Stockdale & Leggo Real Werribee Stockdale & Leggo Real Estate 15b/167-179 Shaws Road Estate 15b/167-179 Shaws Road Werribee SIMS IGA Werribee Werribee SIMS IGA Werribee Village Cnr Shaws & Tarneit Rd Village Cnr Shaws & Tarneit Rd Werribee Hocking Stuart Real Werribee Hocking Stuart Real Estate Estate 34 34 Station Station Place Place Werribee Werribee Westwoods Westwoods First First National National 1 1 Synnot Synnot Street Street Werribee Werribee Werribee Werribee RSL RSL 2A 2A Synnot Synnot Street Street (Kelly (Kelly Park) Park) Werribee Cellarbrations 52-54 Vincent Crescent Werribee Bendigo Bank 42 Watton Street Werribee P. Di Natale Real Estate 44 Watton Street

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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

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2 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 3 March, 2021

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Third swimming pool on the cards By Alesha Capone Wyndham council is preparing to build a third major aquatic facility in the municipality to help cater to the area’s growing population. The council’s two existing aquatic facilities, Werribee Outdoor Pool and AquaPulse in Hoppers Crossing, serve a population of more than 270,000 residents. Wyndham’s director of city life, Allison Kenwood, last week said that the council “has begun early planning for a third aquatic facility to accommodate rapid growth in the

municipality”. “Prior to COVID-19, the city’s major indoor aquatic facility AquaPulse, in Hoppers Crossing, attracted close to one million visitors each year,” Ms Kenwood said. “It also had one of the largest learn to swim programs in Victoria and was also a popular destination for squad, lap and leisure swimming.” Ms Kenwood said the council was monitoring the level of re-engagement at AquaPulse post-COVID, as well as residential growth. “These issues will help determine where a future site [for a third aquatic facility] may be

located and will assist us in developing a future business case and concept plan,” she said. In a post on Facebook last week, Cr Mia Shaw wrote that she hoped plans for the new aquatic facility would be “shovel ready” by the end of 2023. She wrote that in her personal opinion, the new aquatic facility should be built in either Wyndham Vale or Tarneit, to cater for “the huge growth out that way”. Point Cook residents have been campaigning for the council to build an aquatic facility in their suburb for at least a decade.

In June 2018, resident Christine Macpherson made a submission to Wyndham council’s annual budget, on behalf of the Point Cook Action Group, requesting a swimming pool or indoor recreational facility be constructed in the area. In her submission, Ms Macpherson noted that according to the council’s 2011 Aquatic Strategy, Point Cook residents have shown an “ongoing interest” in a swimming facility. Ms Macpherson’s submission said that “future plans to build a pool in Tarneit will not address the needs of Point Cook residents”.

Viral fragments in wastewater

Wolf Graf with one of his upcycled products. (Joe Mastroianni). 229427_03

Wolf’s passion project Wolf Graf says he enjoys seeing the creative ways in which his students upcycle clothes and materials into new garments. Graf teaches sewing classes at the Wyndham Community & Education Centre (WCEC) to help people gain skills to become self-employed, do a job placement or pursue study. He is seeking expressions of interest from residents who would like to participate in future clothing alteration and upcycling short courses, to be held at the Wyndham Park Community Centre in Werribee and the

Penrose Promenade Community Centre in Tarneit. The courses would likely run as three weekly sessions, consisting of three hours each. The courses, which are facilitated by the WCEC, are considered pre-accredited (non-certificate) courses and are offered free for eligible students. Graf said a starting date could be scheduled for courses once enough people have expressed interest. “The important thing to me is that I’m not just teaching skills but teaching a passion for

it,” he said. “When I see people develop something and run with it, it is so satisfying to see that.” Graf said his upcycling courses did not involve all students sitting down to do the same thing, but rather people working on their own projects, planning them out and figuring out what resources to use. To find out more or register your interest in a class, contact the WCEC on 9742 4013 or email enquiries@wyndhamcec.org.au.

Residents and visitors to Werribee, Werribee South and Hoppers Crossing who display even mild COVID-19 symptoms have been urged to get tested for the virus, after viral fragments were detected in the inlet to the Werribee wastewater treatment plant. The fragments were found in a wastewater sample collected on February 25. The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) issued a statement on Monday afternoon, which said independent testing had confirmed the wastewater result that afternoon. Authorities have urged residents and visitors to the Werribee, Werribee South and Hoppes Crossing area since February 23 to get tested if they display any COVID-19 symptoms. On Saturday, the state government announced a “weak detection” of viral COVID-19 fragments in a wastewater sample collected on February 22. The catchment area includes some or all of Taylors Hill, Plumpton, Hillside, Sydenham, Delahey, Caroline Springs, Burnside Heights, Kings Park, Albanvale, Burnside and Deer Park. Wastewater monitoring is undertaken at 142 locations across Victoria including 71 wastewater treatment plants and 71 sites within metropolitan Melbourne. Fragments of the virus detected in wastewater might be due to a person with COVID-19 being in the early active infectious phase or it could be because someone is continuing to shed the virus after the early infectious period. Details: https://www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/ wastewater-monitoring-covid-19.

Alesha Capone

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‘Sewage’ odour sparks complaints By Alesha Capone Several residents have reported an “unbearable” odour permeating Wyndham’s air in recent weeks, which is forcing people to keep their windows shut. The Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) received 76 reports of odour coming from Wyndham between February 8 and 22. A third of the reports were from Werribee and some were from Wyndham Vale. According to the EPA, most of the calls did not specify a suspected source of the smell.

Residents have also been posting on social media about the stench. Manor Lakes resident Harikiran said the “sewage” odour was becoming more frequent. She said it was “unbearable at times”. “In summer when it’s very hot, you can’t even switch on ducted cooling as the entire house would start stinking,” she said. Another resident told Star Weekly that the odour caused their eight-year-old child, who is on the autism spectrum and is sensitive to smells, to vomit. Another parent said: “My eight-year-old

‘‘

some days we must lock ourselves inside our homes - Facebook post

’’

refuses to open his bedroom window now, in his words ‘I don’t want the smell of poo coming in’.” Other residents commented that “our quality of life is deteriorating due to the constant waft of sewage coming from the south every time we have a warm, humid day”.

“Some days we must lock ourselves inside our homes until the stink passes,” they said. EPA western metropolitan regional manager Stephen Lansdell said the agency had undertaken odour surveys in the Wyndham area and “is continuing investigations into several potential industrial and agricultural sources of the odour”. “We urge people to report odour problems promptly, to EPA’s 24-hour hotline on 1300 372 842.” See www.epa.vic.gov.au/report-pollution/ report-odour/describe-odour.

In celebration of women All residents have been invited to attend an International Women’s Day Celebration Picnic in Truganina next week. The event is being organised through the TrugHub partnership between Arndell Park Community Centre (which is run by Wyndham council), Truganina South Primary School, and YMCA Truganina South. The COVIDSafe picnic will include yoga sessions, local guest speakers and a socially-distanced dance party. Wyndham council’s Misty Palmer, who is co-ordinating the event, said the wider community was welcome, including men. Ms Palmer said the Arndell Park Community Centre has received positive feedback about its previous annual International Women’s Day (IWD) celebrations. “I am passionate about building the capacity of the local community, particularly women,” Ms Palmer said.

“Our local community have amazing experiences and insight, often women who are new to the area from other parts of the world are natural-born leaders, let’s showcase our local women more often.” The free IWD picnic will be held on Tuesday from 11am-1pm at the Arndell Park Cricket Oval. Bring your own blanket, lunch and drink. Register to attend: 8734 8911 or arndellparkcc@ wyndham.vic.gov.au Another IWD event will be held at the Wyndham Cultural Centre from noon to 3pm, featuring comedian Claire Hooper, Bluesfest performers Hussy Hicks and local women. Wyndham’s welcoming city portfolio holder, Cr Jennie Barrera said the free event would recognise “the immense contribution of local women to the community and beyond”. Capacity is limited and attendees will be required to check-in via QR code registration. Details: www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/iwd

Khushi Ashraf, Misty Palmer and Alex Wren. (Joe Mastroianni). 229617_02

We’re building big near you and there will be transport disruptions As part of Victoria’s Big Build, we’re upgrading the Sunbury Line allowing bigger, more modern trains to run on the line. We’re also building an alternative to the West Gate Bridge. Train disruptions: Buses and coaches replace trains in both directions Sunbury Line

Until 7 Mar

Flagstaff and North Melbourne to Sunbury

8.30pm to last train each night, 8 to 10 Mar

North Melbourne to Sunbury

Geelong and Warrnambool lines

Until 7 Mar

For all or part of the line

Werribee and Williamstown lines

8.30pm to last train each night, 3 to 4 Mar 1am to 4.30am each night, 6 to 7 Mar

North Melbourne to Newport and Williamstown

Road disruptions: Closed roads and lanes Williamstown Road

9pm to 5am each night, 3 to 4 Mar

Road closed in both directions under the West Gate Freeway

Millers Road

9pm to 5am each night, 3 to 5 Mar

Road closed in both directions under the West Gate Freeway

Cherry Street, Werribee

From 5am 11 Mar

Closed permanently at the level crossing

West Gate Freeway

10pm 16 Mar to 5am 17 Mar

Freeway closed inbound overnight between M80 Ring Road and Grieve Parade

10.30pm 17 Mar to 5am 18 Mar

Freeway closed outbound overnight between Millers Road and M80 Ring Road

19 to 27 Mar

Closed between Cottrell Street and Princes Highway

Werribee Street, Werribee

Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne 4 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 3 March, 2021

941

Keep in mind there are other transport disruptions over autumn. Find a detailed list of disruptions at bigbuild.vic.gov.au

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Celebrating Caireann

Crossing days are numbered

(Supplied)

By Alesha Capone A special event celebrating the life of Caireann Gildea, a little girl who loved writing and athletics, will be held at the Point Cook Pop Up Park this weekend. Caireann, the daughter of residents Kathleen and Neal Gildea, died in March last year after suffering from a ruptured Arteriovenous Malformation (AVM) in her brainstem. She was eight years old. Mrs Gildea said that it was a day “like any other Sunday morning” when Caireann – who had won a 200-metre race at Little Athletics the day before – asked her parents to call a doctor due to pain in her head. As Caireann started struggling to breathe, her family called triple-0. Paramedics and the fire brigade attended, and Caireann was taken to The Royal Children’s Hospital. She died in hospital. A scan later revealed the AVM. Doctors told her parents that nothing could have prevented the tragedy. Caireann’s parents decided that their daughter would have wanted to save the lives of other people – she saved three lives by donating her organs. Mrs Gildea said that she and her husband, along with their two sons – Daniel, 12, and Rian, 4 – wanted to do something to honour Caireann’s memory. The family has launched a GoFundMe page to collect donations for Red Nose, Ambulance Victoria and Point Cook Fire Brigade. Although the family originally set a fundraising goal of $1000, as of Monday the page had received $4365 in donations. To also help raise money, a family day celebrating Caireann’s life will be held at the Point Cook Pop Up Park on Sunday.

CAIREANN GILDEA

The day will mark a year since Caireann’s funeral. Mrs Gildea said Caireann had loved attending the park, where she would dance and participate in activities. The Point Cook Rocks group will host a rock-painting workshop in return for a gold coin donation and Ready Steady Go Kids will

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help out with activities. “We’re just overwhelmed with all the support,” Mrs Gildea said. “I think it will just be very comforting to just see the community coming together to remember Caireann.” Event details: https://bit.ly/2O7fc1c. To donate to the GoFundMe appeal, visit: https:// gofund.me/dbf35b98

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The Cherry Street level crossing in Werribee “will be gone for good” from Thursday, March 11. Werribee MP Tim Pallas last week said the crossing would be permanently removed, well ahead of the original 2022 target set. He said the site would also close to traffic, and drivers would notice some changes in the area. A new road bridge will provide a direct connection from Tarneit Road to the Princes Highway, and there will be signalised intersections at Princes Highway and Railway Avenue. Pedestrians and cyclists will be able to continue crossing the railway tracks at ground level from Cherry Street until a new underpass opens later this year. “Removing this dangerous and congested level crossing will make travel safer and far more reliable and make central Werribee completely level crossing free,” Mr Pallas said. He said major works were continuing to remove the Old Geelong Road level crossing. “While works continue on the road bridge, and the pedestrian and cyclist overpass at Hoppers Crossing station, intermittent lane closures and reduced speeds will be in place on Old Geelong Road, Princes Highway and Princes Freeway in both directions throughout March,” Mr Pallas said. Details: http://levelcrossings.vic.gov. au/ or text ’Hoppers’ to 0438 479 376.

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ŽŶŐƌĂƚƵůĂƟŽŶƐ ƚŽ ƚŚĞ ĨŽůůŽǁŝŶŐ tǇŶĚŚĂŵ ƌĞƐŝĚĞŶƚƐ ĨŽƌ ďĞŝŶŐ ĂǁĂƌĚĞĚ ƚŚĞ KŶĞ tǇŶĚŚĂŵ zŽƵŶŐ WĞƌƐŽŶ ŽĨ ƚŚĞ DŽŶƚŚ ĨŽƌ &ĞďƌƵĂƌǇ ĂŶĚ DĂƌĐŚ͘ dŚĞ ĂǁĂƌĚ ĂŝŵƐ ƚŽ ďƵŝůĚ ƚŚĞ ƉƌŽĮůĞ ŽĨ ǇŽƵŶŐ ƉĞŽƉůĞ ǁŚŽ ĂƌĞ ƉŽƐŝƟǀĞůǇ ĐŽŶƚƌŝďƵƟŶŐ ƚŽ ƚŚĞ tǇŶĚŚĂŵ ĐŽŵŵƵŶŝƚǇ ĂŶĚ ƚŚĂŶŬ ƚŚĞŵ ĨŽƌ ƚŚĞŝƌ ĚĞĚŝĐĂƟŽŶ͘

MARCH WINN ER

TODAY Nicole >ĞĂƌŶ ŵŽƌĞ͗ ǁǁǁ͘ǁǇŶĚŚĂŵ͘ǀŝĐ͘ŐŽǀ͘ĂƵͬŽŶĞǁǇŶĚŚĂŵ Follow us on Facebook to find out more.

kidswest 5 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 3 March, 2021

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Vaccine roll-out The COVID-19 vaccination hub at Werribee Mercy Hospital is set to open on Tuesday, March 9. The first people to be vaccinated will be healthcare workers.

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Community groups in the west are being encouraged to apply for grants of up to $50,000 for conservation projects and habitat restoration. Closing dates for Port Phillip Bay Fund and Community Volunteer Action Grant are April 1. Closing dates for Aboriginal Community Caring for Country Grant is April 22. Details: environment.vic.gov. au/grants

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Manuel Ortega and his family are among the first residents to move into the Mambourin area.

Farm safety

(Supplied)

The state government has launched a $3 million Farm Safety Rebate Scheme, which will provide a rebate of up to $5000 per farm for infrastructure and equipment to address health and safety risks. Details: ruralfinance.com. au or call 1800 260 425

Mexico to Mambourin It’s a long way from Mexico to Mambourin, just ask the Ortega family. Manuel Ortega, his wife and their two children are among the first residents to move into the Mambourin area, which is located on Bulban Road between Werribee and Wyndham Vale. The $455 million development, a Frasers Property Australia project, will eventually transform 115 hectares of vacant land into a home for 3500 residents. Mr Ortega and his family recently moved into their new three-bedroom home at Mambourin. Mr Ortega said Mambourin’s community spirit reminded him of his Mexican origins. “Family, friends and celebration are really important in Mexico, where my wife and I

come from, and this aspect was what most appealed to us about moving to Mambourin,” he said. He said his family was excited to watch the new community take shape. In particular, Mr Ortega and his family said they are looking forward to a recreation and leisure centre, to be named Club Mambourin, which is being built at the estate and is due for completion in the middle of the year. The residents-only community centre will feature a gym, exercise classes, pools, spa, multi-sports court, café and all-purpose function room. “The park is within easy walking distance from our house, and that is going to be fantastic for us and the kids as well,” Mr Ortega said.

Free training Victoria University Polytechnic is offering free, nationally-accredited training in infection control for people who work or volunteer in a customer-facing role. Details: https:// www.vupolytechnic.edu.au/news/freeinfection-control-training FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Wyndham Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

It’s never you, until it is.

More people die on farms than in other workplaces – let’s change that. You might think you’re bulletproof and know your land like the back of your hand. But accidents can happen to anyone. You can prevent accidents. You can prevent deaths. worksafe.vic.gov.au/agriculture 6 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 3 March, 2021

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Werribee residents living longer By Alesha Capone Werribee residents have the longest life expectancy of all Wyndham’s suburbs, while Hoppers Crossing north and Truganina residents have the lowest, according to new research. The Public Health Information Development Unit (PHIDU) at Torrens University has collated the median age of death in all of Australia’s suburbs and towns, from between 2014 and 2018. Within suburban Melbourne, Ashburton – which is located in the south-east – recorded the highest median age, at 89 years old. Melbourne, where the CBD includes a high

homeless population, recorded the lowest median age of 59 years. Within Wyndham, Werribee recorded a median life expectancy of 80 years. Mount Cottrell, which is shared between the Wyndham and Melton municipalities, had a median life expectancy of 76 years. Laverton, which falls between both the Wyndham and Hobsons Bay municipalities, recorded a median life expectancy of 75 years. Hoppers Crossing south and Werribee South were not far behind, with a median life expectancy of 74 years. Wyndham Vale’s median life expectancy was 73 years, Point Cook 71 years and Tarneit 70.5 years.

In contrast, Hoppers Crossing north and Truganina had a median life expectancy of just 68 years. Across the wider western suburbs, Footscray had a median life expectancy of 83 years. Altona and Altona Meadows’ median life expectancy was 82 years, Williamstown 80 years, Caroline Springs 77.5 years and Melton 76 years. In December, a new research facility was officially opened at HeartWest in Hoppers Crossing. Run by researchers and clinicians from Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, the centre is trialling a variety of disease management programs to reduce rates of diabetes, obesity

and heart disease in the west. According to a statement from the centre, more people are dying of heart attacks in Melbourne’s west than anywhere else in the metropolitan area. Wyndham also has one of the highest rates of diabetes in the state and 35 per cent of the municipality’s population are classified as obese. Baker Institute Director Tom Marwick said the primary goal of the new Clinical Trial and Research Centre was to find better ways to help residents live healthier, longer lives. “We want to harness new technology and the brain power of our clinicians and researchers to prevent disease or complications before people end up in hospital,” Professor Marwick said.

Helping hand for youth

Councillors Heather Marcus and Peter Maynard and NatureWest chair Bruce Boddington at a Wyndham clean-up event. (Supplied/Wyndham council)

Learning to live a little greener Wyndham council’s Green Living Series will return this year. The annual series, which includes sustainable living workshops and events, aims to help residents learn how to live “a little greener”. In 2021, the Green Living Series will include a mix of virtual and physical events. Each month will have a different theme, with March to be ‘Keeping Wyndham Clean’, April and May ‘Energy Smart Homes’ and June ‘Environment’. Mayor Cr Adele Hegedich said this month would kick off with a Clean Up Australia Day

event at the weekend for locals to join at the Saltwater Coast. “There are multiple ways you can keep Wyndham clean in March, including booking a hard rubbish collection at home or signing your business up to the Aspire program to help keep waste out of landfill,” Cr Hegedich said. Wyndham’s climate futures and environment portfolio holder, Cr Robert Szatkowski, said the Green Living series was also a good way to make new friends while helping the environment. “There are several local clean up groups across Wyndham that you could join and get

to know those like-minded people around you,” Cr Szatkowski said. “The groups such as Love Our Street, NatureWest, Beach Patrol and Werribee River Association generally run a clean-up session once a month and are always looking for more people to help them.” The Clean Up Australia Day Saltwater Coast event will be held from 10am-1pm on Sunday at 153 Saltwater Promenade, Point Cook. Details: https://bit.ly/3aQaI7S See wyndham.vic.gov.au/greenlivingseries for more information about the Green Living Series.

A youth refuge being built in Werribee is on track for construction to be completed in September. The Wyndham Street building, to be known as the West Refuge, will be run by Melbourne City Mission (MCM). The state government has invested $3.5 million in the project, with the Property Industry Foundation and Hacer Group also contributing support. The West Refuge will link in with MCM’s existing suite of youth homelessness programs, including its service hub in Braybrook. It will provide emergency and crisis accommodation for up to 10 young people, and will be staffed 24 hours of the day. It will also feature two family units and a children’s play area. MCM homelessness, justice & family services general manager Wayne Merritt, said the West Refuge would also offer early intervention programs, parenting, education and living skills programs, and therapy using art, music and animals. “The West Refuge is not just a bed for someone to stay in,” he said. “It’s the first of many stages where we provide wrap-around support aimed at stabilising and addressing the immediate needs, be that financial, support around mental health therapeutic supports that assist young people to start to heal and begin the process of moving forward from what’s happened in the past.” More than $465,000 in services have been donated to the West Refuge’s development including from Turner & Townsend Thinc, Group GSA, Tract Consultants, PLP Building Surveyors, Morris Goding Access Consulting, Rider Levett Bucknall, Nationwide, Irwin, WSP, Hacer Group and Maddocks.

Supermarket build gives new life to plastic Cobblebank’s brand new shopping centre has played its part in saving more than 6.5 million pieces of plastic from landfill before even opening. A groundbreaking new construction material known as Polyrok has been incorporated into the new Coles supermarket development due to open later this year. Polyrok is made from plastic bags and soft plastic packaging that is recovered from the REDcycle program, offering a more sustainable alternative to aggregate minerals used in concrete. The technology was researched and developed in partnership with RMIT University and recycling organisations RED Group and Replas. The Polyrok used in the Cobblebank

supermarket development was supplied by Outwest Concrete, which is based in Hoppers Crossing and Sunshine North. Coles state construction manager Victoria, Fiona Lloyd said the supermarket giant has been looking at opportunities to use the new technology in future developments given only 10 per cent of the 3.5 million tonnes of soft plastic thrown out by Australians each year is recycled, according to Clean Up Australia. “We collect roughly 30 million pieces of plastic every month through our customer REDcycle program, so there’s a huge opportunity to use Polyrok in other Coles developments or other construction projects,” she said. “This is just the beginning of what is possible – this project alone will help repurpose more

than 6.5 million pieces of soft plastic from landfill.” Replas joint managing director Mark Jacobsen said the partnership has helped take one of the most problematic plastics and turned it into a fit for purpose resource. RMIT University civil and infrastructure engineering senior lecturer, Dr Jonathan Tran, said the university has been proud to use its expertise in civil and infrastructure engineering in developing the material. “The testing has shown this sustainable aggregate is robust and fit for purpose.” The Coles REDcycle program has now diverted more than 1.3 billion pieces of soft plastic from landfill since 2011. Benjamin Millar

The largest-ever Polyrok concrete pour at Coles’ Cobblebank development. (Supplied) 7 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 3 March, 2021

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Carers open hearts By Alesha Capone As a foster child from the age of seven, Jarline Mays lived with 13 different families and attended 11 different schools. Ms Mays said her life changed at the age of 13, when she moved in with foster carer Sandra Kay and her family. “I call my home with Sandra my ‘Lucky 13’,” Ms Mays said. “She and her family gave me love, care and understanding. “It made an enormous impact on my approach to school and my outlook on life.” Ms Mays is now aged 33 and lives in Wyndham Vale. She is a mother to five children, including her partner’s one and three-year-old sons. Her former foster mother, Ms Kay, has also fostered other adolescents long-term, and children needing emergency and short-term care. “I just think it’s really rewarding, you’re making a difference in a child’s life,” Ms Kay said. “They say it only takes one person to make that difference, I truly believe that.” Ms Kay has also been working as part of Anglicare Victoria’s foster care recruitment team for just over a year, which she described as her “dream job”. Ms Kay, who has three children of her own, said she thought of foster care as “looking after a child for another parent until they can go back to own family”. She said that Anglicare Victoria needed more foster carers in Melbourne’s north and west, especially for adolescents and sibling groups. She said it was “heartbreaking” when she and her colleagues had to split up siblings going into foster care, but sometimes there was no alternative. A report released last month revealed

Open homes, sausage sizzle and giveaways!

Jarline Mays with her children Hayley, 7, Adrianna, 14, and Tyler, 9. (Supplied)

more than 14,000 young people are living in out-of-home care in Victoria. Anglicare Victoria chief executive Paul McDonald said the organisation was looking to recruit 120 new foster-carers across Melbourne. “At present, we can’t find homes for all the

children who are referred to us,” he said. “Carers can be single, de facto or married, with or without their own children. “Anyone over 21 years of age who can offer a child in need a secure, loving home, is eligible.” For information on how to become a foster carer, visit: anglicarevic.org.au/foster-care

Say hello to the USA Young people in Wyndham will be given the opportunity to take a virtual trip to a United States city this weekend. The Hello USA! event, open to children aged 10 to 14 years, will consist of a one-hour online session facilitated by Wyndham libraries’ staff. On Saturday, March 6, the Wyndham youngsters will connect with a small group of youths living in Nicholasville, Kentucky. Librarians from the Jessamine County Public Library will run the session from the USA. All the Wyndham participants will receive a travel kit featuring a souvenir from Kentucky, US snacks and more. Wyndham’s learning city portfolio holder Cr Jasmine Hill, said the event was a fun and innovative way of engaging teenagers in travel and learning. “Hello USA! Is a great opportunity for Wyndham teens to develop a sense of curiosity for travel and foreign cultures,” she said. “The … event fosters connection and supports young people to develop cross-continental friendships. “Developing the program has also provided the Library Education and Youth Team with a valuable opportunity to learn from our US colleagues in terms of how they manage their services, collections and programming for young people, particularly in the current COVID environment.” Places to participate in the Hello USA! Session are limited and bookings are essential. Details: https://hello_usa. eventbrite.com.au

Meet Vasili at our

Autumn Garden Party! Learn organic gardening techniques and how to improve your health using your own garden produce. Take a photo with Vasili & grab a FREE autographed Vasili’s magazine.

We have limited homes available in this stunning community. We welcome you to take a peek at what a larger life will look like here. Wednesday 10 March 10:00am - 2:00pm Lifestyle Seasons, 13 Sundial Boulevard, Tarneit

1300 50 55 60 | lifestyleseasons.com.au 8 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 3 March, 2021

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. . . from the Mayor

Watoto Wa Mama by Gideon Wilonja. (Supplied)

Embracing who you are An exhibition featuring art by non-binary, LGBTIQIA+ and indigenous artists will be held at the Wyndham Art Gallery later this month. FLUID, which explores gender and identities that exist outside of male and female binaries, will run from March 18 until April 25. Wyndham’s creative city portfolio holder, Cr Marcel Mahfoud, said the exhibition will highlight stories from established artists and emerging Wyndham creatives. “Our program at Wyndham Art Gallery has a unique role to play in telling stories and celebrating perspectives that support the ongoing creation of an inclusive and diverse community,” he said. Visual artist Brooke Van Der Lindens, who is participating in the exhibition, said all of FLUID’s artists identified as gender fluid and

used their work “as an expression of who they are”. “In considering their work we can contemplate both the challenges that people face in being categorised as well as celebrate the possibility of a world in which we are all free to be whoever and whatever we choose, a flexibility that we could all do well to embrace in these uncertain times,” Van Der Lindens said. FLUID will also be available to view as an online video tour led by co-curator and artist Lola Mae Pink. The exhibition includes a content warning for graphic and explicit images. On March 31, from 6.30-8pm, Pink will talk with artists Gideon Wilonja and Ebony Hickey about their work and the ideas behind the exhibition. Details: www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/fluid

Last week I was honoured to be joined by the Member for Werribee, Tim Pallas MP, the Member for Tarneit, Sarah Connolly MP, and Member for the Western Metropolitan Region, Kaushaliya Vaghela MP, for some important announcements ƚŚĂƚ ǁŝůů ďĞŶĞĮƚ ŽƵƌ ůŽĐĂů ĐŽŵŵƵŶŝƚǇ͘ dŚĞ redeveloped Grange Community Centre ŝŶ ,ŽƉƉĞƌƐ ƌŽƐƐŝŶŐ ǁĂƐ ŽĸĐŝĂůůǇ ŽƉĞŶĞĚ͕ ǁŝƚŚ ƚŚĞ Ψϯ͘ϳϱ ŵŝůůŝŽŶ ƉƌŽũĞĐƚ ĐƌĞĂƟŶŐ Ă ǁĞůĐŽŵŝŶŐ ĂŶĚ ǀĞƌƐĂƟůĞ ƐƉĂĐĞ ĨŽƌ ƉĞŽƉůĞ ŽĨ Ăůů ĂŐĞƐ ƚŽ ĞŶũŽǇ͘ tĞ ĂůƐŽ ƵŶǀĞŝůĞĚ ŶĞǁ ůŝŐŚƟŶŐ ĨŽƌ ƚŚĞ Grange Reserve, which will allow the Hoppers Crossing Soccer ůƵď ƚŽ ƵƐĞ ƚŚĞ ŐƌŽƵŶĚ ĨŽƌ ƚƌĂŝŶŝŶŐ ĂŶĚ ŐĂŵĞƐ Ăƚ ŶŝŐŚƚ͘ dŚĞ upgraded Golden Square Park in Hoppers Crossing was also ŽĸĐŝĂůůǇ ŽƉĞŶĞĚ͕ ĐƌĞĂƟŶŐ Ă ĨƵŶ ĂŶĚ ƐƵƐƚĂŝŶĂďůĞ ƉůĂǇŐƌŽƵŶĚ for the whole family to use – something that the lockdowns of ƚŚĞ ůĂƐƚ ϭϮ ŵŽŶƚŚƐ ŚĂƐ ƚĂƵŐŚƚ ƵƐ ŝƐ ŵŽƌĞ ŝŵƉŽƌƚĂŶƚ ƚŚĂŶ ĞǀĞƌ͘ Finally, we also handed over the keys for the new Wyndham Street Surfer Bus, which will replace the old bus used by Youth ^ĞƌǀŝĐĞƐ ĂŶĚ ŝƐ ĮƩĞĚ ŽƵƚ ǁŝƚŚ ŶĞǁ ĞƋƵŝƉŵĞŶƚ ŝŶĐůƵĚŝŶŐ tŝ&ŝ͕ music and DJ equipment, gaming consoles, sports equipment including a mobile basketball ring and soccer goals, art ĞƋƵŝƉŵĞŶƚ ĂŶĚ ĮǀĞ > ƐĐƌĞĞŶƐ ŝŶƐŝĚĞ ĂŶĚ ĂŶ ŽƵƚĚŽŽƌ > ƐĐƌĞĞŶ ǁŚŝĐŚ ĐĂŶ ďĞ ƵƟůŝƐĞĚ ĨŽƌ ŐĂŵŝŶŐ ĂŶĚ ŵŽǀŝĞƐ͘ dŚŝƐ ǁŝůů be a safe space for young people to engage with Council’s zŽƵƚŚ ^ĞƌǀŝĐĞƐ ƚĞĂŵ ĂŶĚ ĂĐĐĞƐƐ ƚŚĞ ŝŶĨŽƌŵĂƟŽŶ͕ ĂĚǀŝĐĞ ĂŶĚ ƐƵƉƉŽƌƚ ƚŚĞǇ ŶĞĞĚ͘ dŚĂŶŬ ǇŽƵ ƚŽ ƚŚĞ sŝĐƚŽƌŝĂŶ 'ŽǀĞƌŶŵĞŶƚ ĨŽƌ ŝƚƐ ĐŽŵďŝŶĞĚ ĐŽŶƚƌŝďƵƟŽŶ ŽĨ ΨϮ͘ϲϮϱ ŵŝůůŝŽŶ͘ On Sunday 28 February I was lucky enough to also switch on the lights at the Werribee Mansion, bathing this iconic building in the colours of Rare Disease Day – pink, green and ďůƵĞ ʹ ĨŽƌ ƚŚĞ ĮƌƐƚ ƟŵĞ ĞǀĞƌ͘ dŚŝƐ ǁĂƐ Ă ŵŽǀŝŶŐ ŵŽŵĞŶƚ ĨŽƌ my family and I as my brother Eddie has been living with late ŽŶƐĞƚ KƌŶŝƚŚŝŶĞ dƌĂŶƐĐĂƌďĂŵǇůĂƐĞ ĞĮĐŝĞŶĐǇ ;K dͿ͕ ǁŚŝĐŚ ŚĂƐ ůĞŌ Śŝŵ ƐĞǀĞƌĞůǇ ĚŝƐĂďůĞĚ ƐŝŶĐĞ ϮϬϭϯ͘ ŽƚŚ ŵǇ ŵŽƚŚĞƌ ĂŶĚ ƐŝƐƚĞƌ ŚĂǀĞ ĂůƐŽ ďĞĞŶ ĚŝĂŐŶŽƐĞĚ ǁŝƚŚ ƚŚĞ ƐĂŵĞ ĐŽŶĚŝƟŽŶ͘ /ƚ ŝƐ ĞƐƟŵĂƚĞĚ ƚŚĂƚ ŽŶĞ ŝŶ ϮϬ ƉĞŽƉůĞ ǁŝůů ŚĂǀĞ Ă ƌĂƌĞ ĚŝƐĞĂƐĞ Ăƚ some point in their life, so spreading awareness is one way we ĐĂŶ ŵĂŬĞ Ă ĚŝīĞƌĞŶĐĞ͘ ŚĞĐŬ ŽƵƚ ŚƩƉƐ͗ͬͬǁǁǁ͘ĨĂĐĞďŽŽŬ͘ĐŽŵͬtǇŶĚŚĂŵ ŝƚǇDĂǇŽƌ ĨŽƌ ŵǇ ƉĞƌƐŽŶĂů ƐƚŽƌǇ ĂŶĚ ŚƩƉƐ͗ͬͬǁǁǁ͘ƌĂƌĞĚŝƐĞĂƐĞĚĂǇ͘ŽƌŐͬ ĨŽƌ ŵŽƌĞ ŝŶĨŽƌŵĂƟŽŶ ŽŶ ZĂƌĞ ŝƐĞĂƐĞ ĂǇ͘ Regards, Cr Adele Hegedich

Wyndham Civic Centre 45 Princes Highway Werribee (PO Box 197) Vic 3030 1300 023 411

www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/contactus www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/connectwithus mail@wyndham.vic.gov.au Translating & Interpreting Services 13 14 50 9 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 3 March, 2021

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Children’s grave sites vandalised By Alesha Capone A Tarneit father is heartbroken following a vandalism and theft in the children’s section at Werribee Cemetery. Troy Wilson is a devoted parent to two boys with former partner Crissey, seven-year-old Braxton and his older brother Cooper, who came into the world stillborn. “Cooper was born on the 26th of October 2011,” Mr Wilson said. “A day I will cherish forever. “I had wanted to be a doting dad for all of my adult life, so my heart and life was shattered.”

Mr Wilson said he regularly visited the final resting place of Cooper, whom he described as his ‘angel son’, at Werribee Cemetery. While at the cemetery last month Mr Wilson said he was devastated to see the items and small possessions he and other families have left on children’s burial sites were strewn about. “Mine are little matchbox cars, one for every birthday, [they were] scattered everywhere, it was absolutely heartbreaking,” he said. “The whole row of all our little angel children had been vandalised. Nothing was in its place. “These children didn’t even get the chance to start a life, and someone has decided that

they are more entitled to the lovingly-placed possessions that heartbroken parents have left for them.” Mr Wilson said the worst part was seeing that a jewellery box, which had been glued to the headstone of the boy buried next to Cooper, had been pried off and stolen. He said the jewellery box had included some of the boy’s mothers ashes, and had been engraved with the words “Mother and Son. Together again”. He said the jewellery box would be “worthless” to whoever stole it, but was incredibly valuable to the boy’s family.

Mr Wilson is appealing for information about the theft, or from anyone who may know the whereabouts of the jewellery box, in the hopes it can be returned to the gravesite. “I don’t think people understand the sadness that this causes,” he said. The 42-year-old tradie said the vandalism had brought him to tears. “Some people have no heart at all,” he said. Anyone with information about the theft of the jewellery box can contact Star Weekly at acapone@starweekly.com.au or on 8318 5753. Any information received will be passed on to Mr Wilson.

More choice for seniors

Staff at Werribee Open Range Zoo operate on Barron, a wild Eastern long-necked turtle who became entangled in fishing line. (Pictures: Supplied/Zoos Victoria)

Young Barron free to swim again Werribee Open Range Zoo veterinarians are concerned by a “dramatic increase” in the number of fishing-related wildlife injuries they have treated this summer. Zoo vet Jen O’Dwyer said that within a week, medical staff treated a silver gull and Pacific gull, both of whom had ingested fish hooks. “It’s quite unusual for us to see so many admissions in a short time, and across Zoos Victoria, we are seeing more and more,” Dr O’Dwyer said. Werribee Zoo vets also recently treated a wild Eastern long-necked turtle, nicknamed Barron. A local recreational fisher helped to save Barron, after the turtle became entangled in fishing line in a river.

Thanks to the expertise of the zoo’s veterinary team, the fishing hook Barron swallowed, and the meat that had attracted him to the hook in the first place, was removed from his oesophagus. Zoo staff were able to return Barron to full health and he has been released back into the wild. “We want to give all our wildlife patients the best chance for success by returning them to where they came from,” Dr O’Dwyer said. “This is particularly important for some animals who have a very small territory, somewhere where they know where their resources are and where their mates are.” Dr O’Dwyer said that anyone who finds marine wildlife entangled in hooks or other

debris, such as plastic, can call Melbourne Zoo’s Marine Response Unit on 1300 245 678. “Wildlife aren’t able to go off and remove a fishing hook themselves, so the most important thing to do is not to cut the fishing line,” she said. “They will inevitably suffer. We want to make sure we can give them the best chance by bringing them in as safely and gently as you can.” Dr O’Dwyer said injuries like Barron’s could be prevented by people taking their rubbish home, and disposing of fishing line in the ‘Seal the Loop’ bins located across Victoria. Zoos Victoria’s Seal the Loop initiative provides resources to help protect Victoria’s marine wildlife from common threats such as fishing waste, plastics and debris.

Workshops will be held in Wyndham from this month onwards to brainstorm ways to get senior citizens involved with recreational venues and activities which do not involve gambling. Wyndham council has partnered with Gambler’s Help and IPC Health for the Stepping Out! workshops. Seniors who live, work or visit Wyndham for recreation, as well as service providers, social activity planners or volunteers who work with or plan activities for seniors, have been invited to participate in the workshops. The workshops will be tailored towards participants’ accessibility requirements using language interpreters (for online and in-person workshops), hearing loops (for in-person workshops) and any other adjustments required. Interested participants can sign up as an individual, group or workplace. Wyndham’s community safety portfolio holder, Cr Susan McIntyre, said the council was committed to promoting the health and wellbeing of Wyndham residents by preventing the harms associated with gambling. “Half of the Australian adult population aged 65-plus are at risk of experiencing gambling harm,” Cr McIntyre said. “Many older adults visit gambling venues for non-gambling activities like to have a meal, catch up with friends, or participate in sport and recreation activities. “Evidence shows that during such visits, they will spend some time playing electronic gambling machines. “These workshops aim to educate seniors and those who work with seniors about gambling harm, and to discover gambling-free venues and activities for recreation in Wyndham.” The workshops will take place from March to Augusst and will be capped at 15 people. Details: https://bit.ly/3bR21uZ

Community has a new home on The Grange A $3.75 million redevelopment of The Grange Community Centre and two adjoining sports fields has been unveiled by Wyndham council. The project included an upgrade of the existing community centre plus the addition of three new community rooms, a lounge space, a landscaped courtyard, a playground, sheltered seating and picnic tables. The upper windows of the centre’s façade now features artwork of birds as they migrate to Wyndham, by contemporary artist Brian Robinson. The project also received $1 million in 10 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 3 March, 2021

funding from the 2018-19 round of the state government’s Growing Suburbs Fund. Wyndham mayor Adele Hegedich last week said the redevelopment would give the community new and improved spaces for people to meet, and to run programs and services. Four lighting poles have also been installed at the Grange Reserve’s pitch one, allowing girls and women from Hoppers Crossing Soccer Club to practice during the evenings. Tarneit MP Sarah Connolly and western region MP Kaushaliya Vaghela joined

Wyndham councillors and soccer club officials to launch the lights. The lights were funded by a $300,000 state government Local Sports Grant. “For too long, clubs like Hoppers Crossing Soccer Club have been hamstrung by outdated facilities – they deserve appropriate facilities they can be proud of,” Ms Connolly said. Wyndham’s active city portfolio holder, Cr Peter Maynard, said the council funded the business case for the pitch lighting project. Details: www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/project/ grange-community-centre

The new-look Grange Community Centre. (Supplied/Wyndham council)

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

NEWS

Noise complaints on the rise By Alesha Capone The number of noise complaints received by Wyndham council has increased by more than two-thirds across 12 months. Last year, the council received 461 noise complaints from residents, up from 273 complaints in 2019. A council spokesperson said the most common noise complaints related to amplified music and instruments, followed by sound generated by heating and cooling units. “The rise in complaints was not surprising

due to many residents working from home and COVID-19 restrictions limiting mobility,” the spokesperson said. “Upon receiving a complaint, council officers investigate the matter, and work with all parties involved to ensure they are aware of their obligations under the Public Health and Wellbeing Act. “In almost all situations, complaints are resolved without the need for further action.” The council’s director of city operations, Stephen Thorpe, said barking dogs were also a concern last year – the council received

101 complaints about barking dogs in 2020 compared with 82 complaints in 2019. “The overwhelming majority of these complaints are either resolved through an engagement and education process with the dog’s owners, or the complaint is unable to be substantiated,” Mr Thorpe said. “Council takes the issue seriously and investigates all complaints. “We have a range of procedures and policies for dealing with barking dog complaints including a dog barking diary, educational references and mediation.

Mr Thorpe said the council encouraged all dog owners to be responsible and provide their pets with the care and attention they deserve. Under Wyndham’s Community Amenity Local Law, an occupier of any land on which an animal is kept must not allow any noise to emanate from the animal which interferes with “the reasonable comfort or convenience of persons who occupy adjacent or nearby land”. For details relating to barking dogs, see https://www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/services/ pets-anima ls/anima l-complaints-pests/ barking-dogs

Surf new channels A new state-of-the-art Wyndham Street Surfer Bus will take to local streets to engage with youth. The new bus is fitted with WiFi, music and DJ equipment, gaming consoles, art equipment and five LCD screens, an outdoor LCD screen can be used for gaming and movies and Apple iMac and PC computers. The bus also has sports equipment including a mobile basketball ring and soccer goals. Young people will be able to connect with members of Wyndham council’s Youth Services team on the bus, and access counselling, legal assistance, a foodbank, employment advice and alternative education programs. The bus will be on the road between four to six days and nights a week. The bus project has received $1 million in funding from the state government and $568,000 from Wyndham council.

Council will also cover the annual costs associated with the ongoing running of the bus. Werribee MP Tim Pallas officially launched the Wyndham Street Surfer Bus last week. “I am sure the bus will become a much-loved part of young people’s lives across our community and can’t wait to see the impact it will have,” Mr Pallas said. Wyndham mayor Adele Hegedich said the new Street Surfer Bus would start visiting local schools, later in the year. “Wyndham City has a higher than average youth population and it is vital that we engage Wyndham’s young people and provide a place where they feel safe, well supported and connected to their community,” Cr Hegedich said. Details: wyndham.vic.gov.au/streetsurferbus Alesha Capone MP Tim Pallas and mayor Adele Hegedich at the launch of the Wyndham Street Surfer Bus. (Supplied)

12480493-NG05-21

11 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 3 March, 2021

NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

MY WYNDHAM You live in Hoppers Crossing? Yes, I live in Hoppers Crossing and have lived here pretty much my whole life. I studied at The Grange P-12 College and that’s where my love for the area started, I found that everyone was so welcoming and we as a diverse community made this place better. All my friends are from different ethnic backgrounds but growing up together made us more inclusive of each other and having that support made me realise what a great community we have and I have cherished that since the beginning.

your own boss, you don’t realise this until you start but it’s very liberating and scary at the same time. In terms of our location, I wanted to stay in the Wyndham area as I knew that firstly there was no bubble tea store in Werribee and that’s where my ideal market would be. I also found that other experienced businesses in Werribee helped me in starting up. The best example for that is Westend Photography, Imran (the photographer who runs the business) helped me from day one and he has played a vital role in our set-up.

What was it like starting a business during the COVID lockdown? It was very daunting, my job was changing, slowing down and it was all working from home, so this gave me some time to think and analyse the market before starting. However, this had its negatives, such as finding suppliers, delays in construction, finding a perfect location … People were not allowed to meet up, so many meetings were done by video calls.

Would you encourage the community to support local businesses in the Werribee town centre? I only realised this once I started my own business, but we as a community, tend to support bigger franchises such as these big fast food joints, even if we have many bad experiences with them, we still go back and purchase again. However, for small businesses like mine and many others, we are very harsh, we will try them once and if they make a mistake or we have to wait a bit longer, we don’t go there again and then we spread bad reviews about them. One negative review can literally end a business. So I would like to encourage the community to spend more at your local businesses, help them out. We have struggled the most, the money is not going into big corporations, but instead helping them feed their families.

Did you ever imagine T-Time Australia would become so successful? To be honest, I didn’t. I remember on our grand opening day, I was thinking, ‘Oh, I don’t think anyone will come,’ but a few minutes before opening, I looked outside and the line was out the door. I was shocked and to be very honest, it was all because our community, my friends and their families had put the word out and had come out to support us. What do you enjoy about running your business and being based in Werribee? The best aspect of running a business is being

(Imran Abul Kashem, Westend Photography)

Muhammad Taimoor Ashraf, known to many as Tim, started a business, T-Time Australia, in Werribee during lockdown last year and now has eight employees. He chats with Alehsa Capone

Do you have any advice for young people wanting to start their own business? The best advice that I ever got was, ‘If it is to be, it is up to me,’ and I would like to pass this on.

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

March 4, 1981

March 6, 1991

February 28, 2001

March 2, 2011

Council has called for a four-point inquiry into the operations of the Werribee Try Centre following complaints and a petition received from Ballan Road, Edgar Street and Duke Street residents. Council’s general purposes committee made a number of recommendations over a fortnight ago regarding complaints about Try activities, future activities at the centre and the council’s expectations of the organisation.

After years of uncertainty, the final details of the 125-bed Hoppers Crossing hospital project will be announced within a fortnight, according to the Premier, Mrs Kirner. The news was part of a $2 million package for Werribee unveiled by the state government during a special meeting of the social development cabinet, held at the Werribee Civic centre last Wednesday.

Werribee South farmers have stepped up their action against the ‘weed-tax’, refusing to pay full rates or sign Wyndham council forms committing them to keep their properties pest-free. The latest move follows increasing anger over changes introduced last November when the council moved farmers from a farm rate to a general rate.

Fostering love: Families open their hearts to children

12 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 3 March, 2021

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BEHIND THE NEWS

Paws for thought Adopting a pet helps the thousands of animals surrendered each year to find a new home, writes Alesha Capone.

very year, thousands of animals are surrendered to pet shelters and rescue groups across the nation. The pets are often given up through no fault of their own, when families face a change in their circumstances, such as moving overseas, or not being able to afford a pet any more. In the 2019-2020 financial year, RSPCA Australia took in 112,530 animals – 28,072 dogs and 45,364 cats among them. While many of these animals were reclaimed or rehomed, more than 33,000 were euthansed, including 3466 dogs and 9714 cats. Animal welfare agencies and charities have long been encouraging people who want a fluffy, feathered or scaled companion to “adopt, don’t shop” to help save the lives of surrendered and rescued pets. PETstock’s charity foundation, PETstock Assist, is one of the organisations which supports this message. Across the past six years, PETstock Assist has helped to rehome more than 12,000 animals through its annual National Pet Adoption Days. This year, the organisation has decided to extend the initiative into a month-long event. Throughout March, Petstock stores across Victoria – including in Melbourne’s north and west – will celebrate National Pet Adoption Month to find new homes for pets, educate people about animal adoption and celebrate the rescue community. This will include animals that have been rescued, the owners that have committed to giving them the best life possible and foster carers. PETstock Assist charity and events lead, Jessica Curtis, said that she wanted everyone – not just people who adopt an animal – to think differently about what they can do to help break the cycle of pet homelessness. “Those who choose to adopt not shop play a critical role in reducing the number of animals in need,” she said. “Not only by providing a loving home and second chance, but also leading by example. “Our rescue parents take the time to learn a pet’s unique personality to find their perfect match, they make a long-term commitment, and ultimately, build a relationship that improves a pet’s life and their own.

PETstock Assist has helped more than 12,000 animals find a new home through its National Pet Adoption Days. (Pictures: Eugene Hyland)

“But it’s not just pet parents who are changing the lives of rescue animals in Australia. “There are countless rescue groups, volunteers and foster carers right across the nation who are all helping break the cycle.” AFLW star player and animal lover, Sharni Layton has teamed up with PETstock Assist to support National Pet Adoption Month. Ms Layton is herself a ‘pet parent’ to three rescue cats, one dog and a horse.

“Knowing that I’ve given my cats a second chance at a safe and loving home brings me so much joy,” Ms Layton said. “The companionship and support that they’ve provided in return, especially throughout 2020 and now during the AFLW season, has made such a positive difference to my life off the field.” On Saturday, March 13, volunteers and animals from local rescue groups will be in attendance at selected PETstock stores for the

seventh annual National Pet Adoption Day. The day will include education and training tips for new rescue pet owners and help for people who are looking to adopt a pet, or become a volunteer foster carer. Petstock stores are located in areas including Altona North, Bacchus Marsh, Craigieburn, Gisborne, Hoppers Crossing, Melton, Sunbury, Sunshine and Taylors Lakes. Details: petstock.com.au 13 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 3 March, 2021

COMMUNITY STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

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

Through the lens Sunflower field in Greendale, a perfect landscape. Damjan Janevski

Knit & Natter Knitting Group Starting Wednesday, March 3, 9.30-11.30am at Craigieburn Leisure Centre, Craigieburn Road, and Hume Global Learning Centre, Craigieburn, from 1-3pm. Knit for the needy. ■ Brenda, 9308 4456

World Day of Prayer You’re invited to pray for the needs of Vanuatu and its people at local church services and events on World Day of Prayer, Friday, March 5. This year’s theme is ‘Build on a strong foundation’. ■ www.worlddayofprayeraustralia.org

Lost and found exhibit Until Thursday, March 11 Hume locals can witness Lisa Buckland’s first solo exhibition, exploring a personal journey of grief and recovery through art. The exhibition is at the Town Hall Broadmeadows Gallery on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8am-4.30pm. Those unable to attend in person can view the exhibit online. ■ 9205 2200 or gallery@hume.vic.gov.au

Flower show Sunshine is celebrating 100 years of community gardening with a free flower show. See Dahlias, roses, floral art, hardy cuts, cookery, arts and crafts, and displays from local schools on Saturday, March 13, 11am-4pm at the Glengala Community Centre.

Show information session Whittlesea Agricultural Society is holding a show information session on Sunday, March 14, noon-2pm, at the Whittlesea Agricultural Society administration building, gate 1, McPhees Road, Whittlesea. Free sausage sizzle and heritage display included. ■ 9716 2835

Celebrate Riverdale Celebrate the Riverdale community at a free, family-friendly event at Riverdale Town Centre, Sunday, March 14, noon-3pm. There will be games, entertainment, live performances and food giveaways. ■ https://www.facebook.com/ events/414182066541935

Get into golf month

Enjoy live music and a screening of Beauty and the Beast on Friday, March 19 at The Nook, Sunbury. Gates open 5.30pm, with entertainment from 6pm and the movie screening at 7pm. BYO picnic and blanket or buy food. Registration required. ■ https://bit.ly/3tJGM4D

National Ride2School Day Take part in Ride2School Day on Friday, March 19. More than 350,000 students across the country are expected to ride, scoot, skate or walk to school to promote active travel. ■ www.ride2school.com.au

heritage walk with guide John, starting at the Williamstown Visitor Information Centre in Nelson Place, each Tuesday at 9.20am. Each week covers a different route. ■ John, 0418 377 336

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 AA meetings call 1300 22 22 22 or visit wwww.aatimes.org.au

Make your own lantern Sunbury community members can join Indian artist Manan Walia to make individual bark ‘tree’ lanterns on Sunday, March 21, 10am-noon at the Hume Global Learning Centre, 44 Macedon Street, Sunbury. ■ https://www.eventbrite.com.au/o/humecity-council-16445167964

Childcare places

Take off weight naturally

Computer course

Struggling to lose weight? Struggling to get motivated? Want to try and do it in a friendly and less stressful atmosphere? Come and join TOWN (Take Off Weight Naturally) every Tuesday at 6pm at the Darlingsford Barn, Darlingsford Boulevard, Melton. ■ Catherine, 0416 612 517, or Bob, 0411 824 739

Rotary Club of Altona City is running a project for older Victorians to give them the confidence to use devices such as iPads, iPhones and computers. No prior knowledge is required. A local venue will be used for the project, which will run from March to June. There are no costs. Dates and times to be confirmed. Topics that may be covered include setting up an email account, using a web browser, Zoom, Facetime and cyber security. ■ Danny, 0425 769 253 or jakeandco1958@gmail.com

Heritage walks Enjoy a 90-minute leisurely

Occasional child care is available at Outlets, Newport Community Education Centre, on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Sessions are available from 9am-12pm, 9am-2pm or 11am-2pm. Child care subsidies offered. ■ 9391 8504 or www.outletsco-op.com.au

Siva Somoa dance Learn Siva Samoa dance with Hobsons Bay’s own Tama Tatau. The group supports young men who have been brought up in Australia to learn Samoan and Pacific songs and dances of their ancestors. Sessions are held Mondays, 5.30-8pm, and Fridays, 5-7.30pm during school term. Cost: $10 per class. ■ Victor, tamatatau@live.com or facebook.com/tama.tatau

Greek cookbook PRONIA is inviting Greeks from Melbourne’s west to contribute recipes to a new cookbook. People aged 65 years and older, from a Greek background can submit a traditional family recipe. ■ 9388 9998 or Sonya Tsakalakis: sonyat@pronia.com.au

Conservation volunteers Join the Friends of Cobbledicks Ford for conservation work in the reserve on the second Friday of the month, 10am-noon, March to October. Registrations open 9.30am in the carpark. BYO water bottle and gloves. Tools provided. ■ John 0407 546 235, cobbledicksford@gmail.com

Mouth organ band The Yarraville Mouth Organ Band meets on Friday evenings at 203 Williamstown Road, Yarraville. New members (players or beginners) are very welcome to come along and enjoy great music in a friendly atmosphere. ■ 9399 2190 or email ymob1933@yahoo.com.au (Pictures: iStock)

March will be filled with golf activities and offers at Keilor Public Golf Course. The free events will run at 540 Calder Freeway, Keilor North. Stay updated on events happening each day by searching @ keilorgolf on social media. ■ 0414 918 533 or email kpgc@belgravialeisure.com.au

Movie night

14 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 3 March, 2021

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COMMUNITY

Out and about The sunshine beckoned as western suburbs residents made the most of the last weekend of summer. Star Weekly photographer Damjan Janevski caught up with some of them.

Face painting and a juggler kept the kids amused when Explorers Early Learning centre in Tarneit held an open day on Saturday to mark its official opening. Local MP Sarah Connolly dropped by the Homebush Road site to join the festivities and cut the ribbon.

Your pictures Youth cricket for boys and girls is flourishing in Williamstown. The Williamstown Imperials Cricket Club, which dates back to 1926, now has more than 155 members and competes weekly with five senior teams and nine junior teams. There are 30 Blasters, young players ranging upwards from eight years, who are coached weekly and will play competitively when fully trained. The club is managed by an enthusiastic group of local business owners, professionals and parents and sponsors who ensure a supply of good quality sporting equipment. One of the major sponsors is the Calleja Group, a large family-owned, waste-management company which has operated from its Altona North site for 35 years.

The slow food movement is gaining momentum. Crowds were happy to browse the stalls at the Slow Food Melbourne Market in Spotswood at the weekend.

Sebastian is very proud to be wearing his grade 6 uniform. He has faced many challenges during his schooling due to disabilities. His parents send a special shout out to his teachers at Thomastown Meadows Primary School.

1/ Juggler ‘Amazing Hazel’ and Mateo, 3, at Explorers Early Learning; 2/ Elijah, 2; 3/ MP Sarah Connolly; 4/ Hiren Patel and daughter Veeha; 5/ Yunita and daughter Qiana, 2; 6/ John Howel at the Slow Food Melbourne Market; 7/ Yoshi Katayanagi and Rachele Nilan with their son Aoi, 2; 8/ Erin Carswell and Jonathan Giddings and their kids Georgina, 3, and Magnus, 3 months; 9/ Amber and Andrew McLynskey and their children Stella, 9, and Flynn, 7; 10/ Connie Materia and Mim Faranda. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 229750, 229752 15 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 3 March, 2021

COMMENT STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

A personal mission for MP Connolly’s Corner by Sarah Connolly, Tarneit MP Welcome to my first contribution of Connolly’s Corner, a regular space in the Star Weekly where I’ll share news and updates from the Victorian government. There’s so much I’d like to share with you it’s hard to know where to start – so I’ll begin with what I feel most passionate about and share with you why this is important. It’s no secret I’m a big believer in education having the power to transform a child’s life. I was raised in a household that strongly believed every kid – regardless of their postcode, the size of their wallet, or the neighbourhood they rode their bike around on – is entitled to a decent education. A good education gives our kids the best start in life. It gives them choice. It gives them opportunities. For many families suffering from generational disadvantage – it gives them a circuit breaker. For me, it’s personal. It was a circuit breaker. I was the first kid in my family to finish school. The first to go to university. My folks, like so many parents, wanted nothing more than their kids to have the choices and opportunities they didn’t have. And they believed getting a decent education was the way this would happen. Since being elected in 2018, I haven’t wasted a second on the education front. In my patch of Tarneit alone, we’ve spent over $206 million on school infrastructure.

We’ve built four new schools since coming to government in 2014. With land acquisitions for three new schools currently underway, including a secondary school for Truganina, it’s clear we’re not slowing down. But we’re not just building new schools – we’re also upgrading existing ones. And that’s because every child deserves to have decent facilities at their school, whether it’s the classrooms they sit in, their playgrounds at lunch, or the sporting oval they kick a footy on. A major upgrade is currently under construction at The Grange P-12 College, with completed works expected later this year, and Hoppers Crossing Secondary College’s $10 million upgrade will have shovels in the ground in coming months. I’m also pleased to say Doherty’s Creek P-9 College will soon open its doors for years 7-9 thanks to our government’s $11.23 million investment – a huge relief for so many families, knowing their children can now finish up their junior years at this great local school. We know it takes more than the four walls of a classroom to give a child a decent education. In my opinion, a lot of it comes down to the person standing in front of the classroom. Our teachers are incredible human beings and they are the key to unlocking a life-long passion for learning in our kids. Whether it’s our school breakfast club program, mental health professionals in high schools or new tutors being rolled out across Victoria, we’re determined to ensure Victoria is the education state for every child.

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16 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 3 March, 2021

Tarneit MP Sarah Connolly at Hoppers Crossing Secondary College. (Supplied)

Westgate – Operation Arid

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Police hit the roads for long weekend blitz Speedsters and other drivers flouting the road rules have been put on notice ahead of the long weekend’s road policing blitz. Over the Labour Day weekend, Victoria Police will be out in force for Road Policing Operation Arid which runs from Friday, March 5, 2021 to Monday, March 8, 2021. Sergeant Marty Wallace from Westgate Highway Patrol says Operation Arid will be conducted throughout Victoria by all operational police in all police areas during the four days, using all available personnel from local Highway Patrol Units, General Duties Police members and other Police Units. “The Labour Day weekend provides an opportunity for families to free themselves from their usual commitments and it is anticipated that large numbers of people will use Victorian roads, often driving long distances in unfamiliar driving conditions,” he says. “The times of highest risk are when people are leaving for holiday destinations and returning home.” Police will be targeting the main causes of fatalities and serious injuries in crashes such as: • Excessive speed • Driver distraction • Restraint and seat belt non-compliance • Fatigue • Impaired driving (alcohol and/or drug) Motorists are requested to stay within the speed limit, don’t drink alcohol or take drugs and drive, leave their mobile phone out of reach, wear their seatbelt/child restraints and make sure they are well rested. Speed Cameras will be rostered in known high collision locations. He notes that fatigue is one of the major causes of loss of lives on Victorian roads. “Drivers are requested to plan their trip, be patient and ensure that you take at least a

Senior Sergeant Leemara Fairgrieve OIC and Sergeant Marty Wallace from Westgate Highway Patrol. (Damjan Janevski)

15-minute break at least every two hours and don’t drive if you are tired.” Road trauma isn’t just about the lives that are lost – it’s about the enormous impact on the community – from family members, and emergency services workers who have to deal with these tragedies on a daily basis to the police who have to deliver the devastating news to loved ones.

All of the community has a responsibility and a role to play in reducing road trauma. The aim of this operation, in addition to detecting offences, is to provide a highly visible and mobile police presence to reinforce positive driving behaviours and reduce the incidence of road trauma. RoadSafe Westgate Community Road Safety Council chairman Jim Giddings says it has

been demonstrated time after time that speed is a contributing factor in most road crashes. “Therefore stay within the speed limit and drive to suit the conditions you face,” he says. “Speeding affects both the risk of a crash happening and the severity of injuries sustained when a crash does happen.” He asks the community to report speeding drivers to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

DRIVING IS NOT A GAME! SPEED KILLS! Don’t make a Grave Mistake Speed is the largest single factor in fatal road crashes on our roads. RoadSafe Westgate and your local council support reporting speeding drivers to Crime Stoppers.

REPORT SPEEDING DRIVERS

1800 333 000 RoadSafe Westgate Community Road Safety Council is a road safety advocacy group that implements road safety programs and is supported by the municipalities of Hobsons Bay, Maribyrnong, Melton and Wyndham. 1092275-HM38-13 1204680-HM44-15

17 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 3 March, 2021

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Alberti shines light for women The team at Wyndham Grange Village is absolutely delighted to have Susan Alberti AC as the keynote speaker at its International Women’s Day (IWD) Luncheon on March 17. This year’s theme of IWD, “Choose to challenge. A challenged world is an alert world”, couldn’t be better represented than with a woman such as Susan, who has spent her life challenging the status quo, breaking down stereotypes, and flying the flag for women’s achievements. In her earlier life, she tackled a male-dominated industry to become one of the first women in Victoria to obtain a commercial builder’s licence, building a career with her husband that enabled Susan to become a generous philanthropist, helping uncountable people. People may know her best these days as “the footy lady”, who became vice-president of the Western Bulldogs and was a driving force behind the successful push to establish the national AFLW women’s football competition. Susan is also director of the AFL National Women’s League Advisory Group. Recognising her long and outstanding contribution to major medical institutions, particularly as a philanthropist, fundraiser and advocate for type 1 diabetes care and research, Susan was made an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) in 2007. In 2016, she was made a Companion of the Order (AC) in recognition of her eminent service to the community, and for being a role model and mentor to young women.

International Women’s Day March 8, 2021 Theme: Choose to Challenge From challenge comes change IWD is a day to: • Celebrate women’s achievements • Raise awareness about women’s equality • Lobby for accelerated gender parity • Fundraise for fermale-focused charities On May 9, 2018, Susan was the recipient of the InStyle and Audi Women of Style “The Irrepressible Force” award; and two months later was announced as Victorian of the Year. Last year, she became the inaugural patron of the Tradeswomen of Australia Foundation, and in the same year was named as one of the “Most Influential Victorians since 1990”. The Bairnsdale-born girl has become one of the most recognisable faces in Victoria, and one would be hard pressed to find a better representative of International Women’s Day. The Wyndham Grange Village luncheon is a free event for retirees – bookings are essential. Call Pam or Madelin on 1800 123 131 to secure a limited seat. Wyndham Grange Village, 83 Kulin Drive, Tarneit. Inquiries: www.rcavillages.com.au

Susan Alberti will be keynote speaker at an IWD luncheon. (Supplied)

The best in Point Cook retirement living

Established homes now available

Villa 221

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$499K $TBA $540 $605 2

Freecall: 1800 645 264 pointcookvillage.com.au • 320 Point Cook Road, Point Cook For more information about our range of retirement communities visit: rcavillages.com.au 18 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 3 March, 2021

Prices valid at publication date.

From time to time selected refurbished villas become available for sale to new residents of RCA Villages. These are not brand-new units and, on occasion, have additions and/or improvements included.

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2-54 Old Melbourne Road, LITTLE RIVER A Historic Bluestone Retreat with Rare River Frontage - 10.29ha 25.43 acres approx. ‘Tarcombe’ (circa 1860’s) is a superbly positioned lifestyle property nestled on the banks of the picturesque Little River and is laden with history, visually stunning, truly unique and offers all the benefits of rural living within easy reach of both the Melbourne CBD (35 mins) and the Geelong CBD (25 mins). • 3 Beds, 1 Bath, Multiple Living Areas • 3 Crown Allotments with Road Frontages • Open Fireplaces, IXL Wood Stove • Over 500m of Prime River Access • Double Carport & 4 Bay Machinery Shed • Bluestone Home, Barn & Stables • Three Main Paddocks, Town Water Connected • Horse Shelters, Wood Shed & Garden Shed

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03 5229 8017 | hfrichardson.com.au 19 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 3 March, 2021

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CDB-U49119

20 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 3 March, 2021

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TODAY Message us on Facebook to share your recipes and activity ideas.

Cook it

Solve it

BANANA B ANANA BREAD Ing Ingredients 1 cup c plain flour 1/2 cup self-raising flour 1 cup c brown sugar 1 te teaspoon ground cinnamon

125g butter, melted, cooled 2 eggs, whisked 3 ripe bananas, mashed

Me Method oven to 180°C. Grease and line an 11 x 21cm x 6cm deep 1. Pre-heat P l loaf pan. flours, sugar and cinnamon in a large bowl. 2. Combine C 3. Whisk W butter and eggs together and add to dry mixture. 4. Stir S in banana. Spoon into prepared pan. (Optional: Sprinkle raw sugar over the top for some crunch.) s 3. Bake B for 45 mins and set aside to cool. TIP: Add blueberries or raspberries for a fruity twist! TIP Recipe supplied by Alana, tested by Emma, 6 Rec

Make it PET ROCKS P You Y need SSmooth rocks Paint P Paintbrush P Craft materials to decorate (wool, C googly eyes, felt, etc.) g

c t f a n u f

Method M 1 1. Hunt for rocks around your home or a park and collect the ones you would like for your pet rocks. 2 2. Paint rocks - you can create patterns and features of certain animals or get creative and invent one! 3 3. Bring your pet to life by adding googly eyes, hair, sparkles and any other craft items you like. 4 4. Name your new pet rock and find it a home either indoors or out. TIP: Painting the rock with clear nail polish can help to T p protect the paint and decorations if it will be living outside. R Recipe from www.kidspot.com.au

ed in 1975 Pet Rocks were invent d cost $3.95 as ‘the perfect pet’ an were sold each - about 1.5 million in just a few months!

Subscribe to our digital editions at www.starweekly.com.au Junior indoor cricket starting winter registrations NOW!

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Unit 13-15, 55 Graham Court Hoppers Crossing P: 9931 0102 E: hopperscrossing@indoorsportsvictoria.com.au 21 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 3 March, 2021

PUZZLES No. 018

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

3 2 8

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

4 1 8

QUICK CROSSWORD ACROSS

DOWN

Swamp (7) Slid; dashed (7) Tribes (5) South American (9) Wrath (3) Connect; associate (11) Struggles; filters (7) Dried or cleaned without wiping (6) Scottish delicacy (6) School (7) Bug poison (11) Common pet (3) Emitting (9) Expel; escape (5) Accounts (7) Feather cleaners (7)

1 5 9 10 11 12 13 15 18 20 22 24 25 26 27 28

No. 018

Strangest; craziest (8) Exchange (5) Descending with rope (9) Argues (7) Boxed; fought (7) Oily fruit (5) East Asian nationality (9) Tangoed (e.g.) (6) Epic; instrumental (9) Those with faith (9) Grows in the womb (8) Alcohols (7) Winced (7) Reflector (6) Seat (5) Greek island (5)

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 14 16 17 19 20 21 23 24

DECODER

No. 018

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

2 1 3 hard

2 9

1 7 1 3

10 11 12 13

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

O B 20

20 words: Very good

2 3 5 4 6 7 9 8 1

9 7 1 8 2 5 6 4 3

7 4 3 9 5 8 2 1 6

5 LETTERS ABLER

MUCUS NAPPY OCEAN ONSET OUTER PAUSE PRESS RAISE REARS RESTS REUSE SECTS SEEDS SHADE SHRED SLEDS STEAM STERN TEPEE THETA THOUS TIARA

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

Which children’s picture book by Raymond Briggs was first published in 1978?

How many times has Australia qualified for the FIFA World Cup finals?

NOTE: more than one solution may be possible

Arrival and The Visitors are albums by which pop group?

Who said 'World War IV will be fought with sticks and stones'?

Which 2018 sci-fi horror film stars Robert Pattinson and Juliette Binoche (pictured)?

Who has won the Artist of the Year category the most times at the American Music Awards?

No. 018

B A S E A L I D K I N G

A V E

1 6 8 2 4 9 3 5 7

3 5 7 1 8 6 4 2 9

8 2 7 1 4 9 5 3 6

9 3 6 5 2 7 4 1 8

7 9 2 4 5 8 3 6 1

1 5 4 6 3 2 8 9 7

3 6 8 7 9 1 2 4 5

2 8 1 9 7 4 6 5 3

5 4 3 2 1 6 7 8 9

6 7 9 3 8 5 1 2 4

1 2 4 5 7 3 8 9 6

4 9 2 1 6 5 3 8 7

6 5 1 3 8 7 4 2 9

3 8 7 2 9 4 5 6 1

2 3 9 4 5 1 6 7 8

7 4 5 8 2 6 9 1 3

8 1 6 7 3 9 2 4 5

22 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 3 March, 2021

4 LETTERS BANI BARS EMIR ERAS GORE HYMN MAST MESS MIRE MOBS PLAN TERM THUS WATT

No. 018

TOPIC TRACE TREAT UNDER WANDS 6 LETTERS FOSTER OODLES SENILE THRILL

GIRAFFE LINEAGE MISSILE REACHES 8 LETTERS BARRENER OFFICIAL REGULATE SCENARIO

7 LETTERS CLEARER ENLIVEN

05-03-21

E V U E

9 7 3 6 4 8 1 5 2

R E S

4 9 2 5 7 3 1 6 8

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

actuary, canary, cant, carat, cart, carta, cast, causa, cray, crust, crusty, curt, curtsy, cyan, cyst, racy, sacra, SANCTUARY, saucy, scan, scant, scanty, scar, scary, scat, scut, truancy

8 2 9 6 1 4 7 3 5

ABUSE AGENT APART ATLAS AURAS CEASE CHINS CREST DREAM EAGER EATEN EDICT ERECT EVADE FLORA GARBO HATES HAULS HEATH INERT LOPES LUNCH

QUICK QUIZ

4 1 5 8 6 3 9 7 2

6 8 4 3 9 1 5 7 2

Today’s Aim: 13 words: Good

3 LETTERS ACE APE ATE BED CPA FIB FOE HEN ICE INN MES NEE ODE ORE PAR RED REV RUB SAC SAD SEA UGH USE VCR

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”.

Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

9-LETTER WORD

27 words: Excellent

hard

medium

N V I MCQK Z D TWP L

4 5

easy

7 4 3 4 6 5 6 6 8

5x5

X J S E G F H R U A Y OB

5 6

WORDFIT

How many sides does the Australian 50-cent coin have?

The two hosts of SBS World News are Janice Petersen and who?

Which city of New South Wales derives its name from an Aboriginal word meaning 'clear waters'?

10 What Australian news, current affairs and satire TV series began airing on SBS Viceland in 2013? ANSWERS: 1. The Snowman 2. Five 3. ABBA 4. Albert Einstein 5. High Life 6. Taylor Swift 7. 12 8. Anton Enus 9. Queanbeyan 10. The Feed

SUDOKU

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ZZZ QHWZRUNFODVVL´HGV FRP DX

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G6133636AA-dc2Jul

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SPORTS QUIZ 1. Which Australian wheelchair tennis player recently won their seventh consecutive Australian Open wheelchair quad singles title? 2. Naomi Osaka, winner of the 2021 Australian Open women’s singles title, was born in which Japanese city? 3. Which NBA team did Australian basketballer Ryan Broekhoff play for from 2018 to 2020?

5. Which team won three consecutive AFL Premierships from 2001 to 2003?

10. Which team did the Melbourne Aces defeat to win their second straight ABL championship?

6. What are the names of the two Sydney-based Big Bash League cricket teams?

11. In what city will the 2021 NBA All-Star game take place? 12. In what year did the first MotoGP season take place?

7. The Hunter Mariners were a short-lived professional rugby league club based in which NSW city?

13. Which Australian batsman scored 45 in the recent first Twenty20 International match against New Zealand?

8. Which Super Netball team won premierships in 2011, 2015 and 2016?

4. In which country is Super Rugby team the Jaguares based?

Greg Norman

14. What form of martial arts will make its debut at the Tokyo Olympic Games? 15. What is the name of the Super Rugby team based in Perth?

9. Which WNBA team did Australian basketballer Michele Timms play for from 1997 to 2001?

16. What AFLW team plays their home games at RSEA Park? 17. What type of farm was the first ever golf course located on? 18. What Australian state is interested in bidding for the 2032 Summer Olympics? 19. In what city is the Supercars Championship event known as the Tasmanian SuperSprint held in?

Charles Leclerc

20. How many players are there in a baseball batting lineup?

26. How many times did golfer Greg Norman win the British Open Championship?

21. How many times did Australian basketball Lauren Jackson win the WNBA Most Valuable Player Award?

27. Which AFL footballer won the Brownlow Medal in 2018 then missed the entire 2019 season through injury?

22. In Super Rugby, the Blues are based in which New Zealand city?

28. Which cricketer was named player of the series in the 2020/21 Big Bash League competition?

23. Scuderia Ferrari racing driver Charles Leclerc races under which flag?

29. In which FIFA World Cup did the infamous vuvuzela make its presence felt?

24. In which major sporting competition is the Commissioner’s Trophy presented?

30. Which F1 champion did Chris Hemsworth portray in the 2013 film Rush?

25. Which EPL club did goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer play for from 1997 to 2008?

0503

1. Dylan Alcott. 2. Osaka. 3. Dallas Mavericks. 4. Argentina. 5. Brisbane Lions. 6. Sydney Sixers and Sydney Thunder. 7. Newcastle. 8. Queensland Firebirds. 9. Phoenix Mercury. 10. Perth Heat. 11. Atlanta 12. 1949 13. Mitchell Marsh 14. Karate 15. Western Force 16. St Kilda 17. Sheep farm 18. Queensland 19. Launceston 20. Nine 21. Three 22. Auckland 23. Monaco 24. Major League Baseball 25. Middlesbrough 26. Twice 27. Tom Mitchell 28. Josh Philippe 29. South Africa 2010 30. James Hunt

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PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE OPTUS MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION WITH 5G AT: 70 Greg Norman Drive, Point Cook VIC 3030 (RFNSA Site No. 3030016) 1.

The proposed facility consists of the addition of new 5G equipment and associated works as follows: x x x x x

x 2.

4 new panel antennas (0.82m long) at 19.4m in height 4 new panel antennas (1.9m long) at 18.5m in height 4 new panel antennas (0.64m long) at 18.4m in height 16 new remote radio units (RRUs) Ancillary equipment including but not limited to; new mounts, vertical tray to be double stacked, fibre and electrical cabling, 1 new GPS antenna, 1 new square mounting frame collar, removal of the existing collar mount steelwork Reconfiguration of existing equipment

Optus regards the proposed installation as a Lowimpact Facility under the 7HOHFRPPXQLFDWLRQV /RZ LPSDFW )DFLOLWLHV 'HWHUPLQDWLRQ (“The Determination”), based on the description above. In accordance with Section 7 of the C564:2020 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment Code, we invite you to provide feedback about the proposal. Further information and/or comments should be directed to Daniel Trees of Visionstream at daniel.trees@visionstream.com.au or Locked Bag 2015, South Brisbane QLD 4101 by 18 March 2021.

PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE OF ADOPTED LOCAL LAW WYNDHAM CITY COUNCIL Notice is given pursuant to Section 119(3) of the Local Government Act 1989 that, at its meeting on 2 February 2021, Wyndham City Council (Council) resolved to make the Governance Local Law 2021 (Local Law). The purpose of the Local Law is to: • regulate the use of the common seal; • make it an offence for a person to use the common seal without the authority of Council; • make it an offence for a person to record a meeting of Council or a Delegated Committee by audio or visual means without consent; • make it an offence for a person to engage in an act of disorder at a meeting of Council or a Delegated Committee; and • provide for the good governance of the municipal district. The Local Law: • revokes Council’s Governance Law 2013; • provides for the form and safekeeping of Council’s common seal, and who can use the common seal; • requires written consent to be obtained before a meeting can be recorded; • creates offences relating to use of the common seal, recording meetings and behaviour at meetings; and • provides for the administration and enforcement of the proposed Local Law. A copy of the Local Law may be obtained, during office hours at the Wyndham City Council Office: 45 Princes Highway, Werribee 3030 and is also available on Council’s website at https://www. wyndham.vic.gov.au/sites/default/files/2021-02/Governance%20 Rules.pdf Any person requiring further information concerning the adopted Local Law should in the first instance contact Council’s Customer Service Team on 1300 023 411. 12484800-DL10-21

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Aiming high There were plenty of rising stars on show when little athletes joined in the Western Region Little Athletics Track and Field Carnival at Newport. Photographer Damjan Janevski caught some of the action.

3 1

5 7

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1/ Ella, from the Werribee club, contests the under-15 long jump; 2/ Werribee’s Ava is focused in the under-11 javelin; 3/ Evie, of Bacchus Marsh, makes light work of the under-13 hurdles; 4/ Williamstown’s Riley lands the under-13 triple jump; 5/ Altona’s Jayden in the under-10 shot put; 6/ Xander, of Werribee takes on the under-16 hurdles; 7/ Taranveer, of Melton, throws strongly in the under-11 javelin; 8/ Werribee’s Katarina clears the bar in the under-11 high jump; 9/ Ava, of Werribee, in the under-11 javelin; 10/ Werribee’s Arshad gives it his all in the under-10 shot put; 11/ Brimbank’s Oscar in the under-14 discuss; 12/ Xavier, of Werribee, concentrates during the under-14 discus; 13/ Under-14 triple jump winner Jeeva, of Williamstown. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 229754 26 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 3 March, 2021

SPORT Young Seagulls ‘super strong and super fit’ It was a young and new-look Williamstown team that stepped out onto the field for the start of the Victorian Football League women’s season on Sunday. Just eight players from the 2019 squad have returned, with 32 new faces making up the rest of the team. For coach Penny Cula-Reid, getting out on the field has been a long time coming. The former Collingwood VFLW coach was appointed the Seagulls coach after the 2019 season, but due to COVID-19, the weekend was her first official game coaching the side. “Exciting is an understatement,” she said ahead of the first game. “It’s been 12 months plus in the making. It’s been a long time. Cula-Reid said they went through a recruitment process ahead of the season, focusing on local players in Melbourne’s west. She said they want to be a destination club

for players in the west who want to take their game to the next level. Erin Meade will captain the side and is joined by returning players Eliza Straford and Ruby Tripodi in the leadership group. Liz McGrath, Ashlea Melnikas, Scarlett Dunell, Tahlia Merrett and Lauren Suleiman have also returned. Cula-Reid said they had all come back to the club in really good shape. “Most of them were really fortunate to have had the opportunity to go to the Northern Territory to play football over COVID,” she said. “It is really good for us as a club to continue to build those relationships with external groups. And it’s good for them to get some footy under their belts … they’ve come back super strong and super fit.” Cula-Reid said they had some exciting prospects that had come to the club including

VU Spurs Northern Football League division 1 premiership players Aleisha Casley, Tori Snelleksz, Amy Wheelhan and Elise Muller. Claire Ryan and Lisa Loughnane are two of the club’s Irish recruits, while Allana Dickie is from Western Australia. After a couple of pre-season hit-outs, Cula-Reid said she was happy with the team but admits they have a few things to iron out. “Our average age is 23,” she said. “It’s just about building connections and a strong solid foundation, not just for this year but working towards the seasons to come. “We want to get them playing the Williamstown way and get involved in Williamstown and the Hobsons Bay community.” The played Darebin Falcons on Sunday. Visit www.starweekly.com.au for results. Tara Murray

Williamstown VFLW captain Erin Meade and coach Penny Cula-Reid. (AFL Photos)

Hourigan makes history By Tara Murray History was made on Saturday when Jessica Hourigan walked out onto the field for East Sunbury’s Gisborne and District Cricket Association McIntyre Cup match against Diggers Rest Bulla. The 17-year-old, who has played with the Thunder since she was 10, became the first female to be part of the club’s top side. GDCA president Rob McIntyre said he believed she was also the first female in the competition to be selected in the top grade. Speaking before the match, Hourigan said she was honoured to be the first girl to have the opportunity. The Thunder, in their first season in the top division, sits sixth with two rounds remaining. “I’m nervous but excited,” Hourigan said. “I was meant to captain the thirds this week, but they were short in the ones and dad [Mark Hourigan] was playing up, so they decided that I would play ones too. “I was a bit shocked, I don’t think I would play ones.” She described the chance to share the moment with her dad as special. The pair have played several games together in the lower grades, but Hourigan said this is “even better”. Mark, a former coach at the club, has been playing in the lower grades in recent seasons. “I think it’s something that he wanted, to play in the first XI with his daughter,” she said. “He is really keen for it.” Hourigan said she expected stepping up into the top grade would be a challenge, but at the same time a lot of fun. It would be a chance to test her skills at a higher level, where she expected the ball to be hit harder and the catches harder to take. “I’ve spent most of the season in the twos this season, after captaining the thirds last season,” she said. “They pushed me up to the twos to help them out a bit and I love it up there. “The change of quality from the thirds, where there are a lot of little kids and their dads … It’s more competitive and I’m a competitive type of person, I love it.” Hourigan, who has previously played premier cricket second XI, has focused on playing with the Thunder the past couple of seasons to be closer to home as her brother Brody battled cancer. Brody died late last year. Hourigan said she would consider playing at Carlton next season or staying with East Sunbury, depending on what pans out with university. Whether she steps up to the next level, the Thunder will also be close to her heart.

West Footscray new coach Ian Fox. (Supplied)

Fox locked in for Roosters

Top: Jessica Hourigan is congratulated on her selection by GDCA president Rob McIntyre. Above: Jessica Hourigan with the East Sunbury and Diggers Rest Bulla teams before the match. (Pictures: Supplied)

“You get used to being around the boys, it’s good form, I’m not going to lie. “I love it.” Hourigan’s top grade debute was made even more special, when she was thrown the ball when Thunder opening bowler Shubham

Kapadia got injured. She finished with the figures 1-27 off 4.4 overs, bowling Ryan Peters. The Thunder had a big win to rise to fifth on the ladder and all but secure a spot in the top division for next season.

West Footscray has moved quickly to appoint a new coach for the Western Region Football League division 2. The Roosters announced on Thursday that Ian Fox would replace Shane Lucas who stood down the previous week. Lucas had been senior coach since 2016. Under his helm the side finished outside the finals in 2019. Fox, a premiership-winning reserves coach at Altona in 2018, has been senior team assistant coach at Altona and more recently at Braybrook. He has also coached at junior level for a number of years. The club said that Fox brings a deep love of footy and a long history of leadership with a strong focus on player development and pathways. “His resume is adorned with finals results, revealing Ian’s drive for excellence, underpinned by the preparation, research and strategy of his coaching approach,” a Facebook post said. “The West Footscray Football Club are particularly keen to leverage Ian’s experience to strengthen the talent and depth of the senior playing group for years to come. “We look forward to seeing his strong leadership in action, as he guides our senior Roosters, and the wider club, into a new era of success.” Fox said it was both exciting and a privilege to be given the opportunity to help grow and develop the historic club. “I’m looking forward to the 2021 season to consolidate and build on the past five years,” he said. “There will be many challenges, but as a team – players, coaches, support staff and all associated with the West Footscray Football Club – we look forward to not only meeting those challenges, but exceeding them.” Tara Murray 27 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 3 March, 2021

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