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Help for the frontline By Alesha Capone

Michelle Edwards, with two of her children, Ella and Klayton, in the background.

Mrs Edwards said the Point Cook Buy Nothing Facebook group “came to the rescue” and donated items for the pamper packs when

(Damjan Janevski) 264259_01

she ran out. “I know people are over the pandemic, but we just need people to be kind to healthcare

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workers and to each other too,” she said. Details: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ adoptaHCWVictoria

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Truganina resident Michelle Edwards is urging the community to show support and understanding for healthcare workers, as COVID-19 puts increasing pressure on all those employed in the field. Mrs Edwards, a patient services assistant at a large Melbourne hospital, said that there are many “forgotten healthcare workers” in Victoria who are doing it tough. Mrs Edwards said that due to COVID, most hospitals were understaffed at the moment, despite increasing workloads. “For healthcare workers, there are no replacements,” she said. “So many people are burnt out. “So many healthcare workers are working so many days and long shifts.” Mrs Edwards said hospital workers had to remain professional and calm “even if you have just been abused in the emergency department or seen someone die”. “People need to understand the pressure everyone is under,” she said. Mrs Edwards, who is on stress leave, said many in her position felt they were letting their colleagues down if they did take time off work. While she is on leave, Mrs Edwards said she wanted to show appreciation for other workers in healthcare. She is a member of the Adopt a Healthcare Worker Victoria (AHWV) Facebook group, which has more than 23,500 members. The group was established in 2020 to help the state’s healthcare workers, with anything they need – such as food, childcare and cleaning. Members of the group can volunteer to help healthcare employees, while workers can also ask for assistance. Mrs Edwards and her five children – Lilly, Klayton, Ella, Alex and Jacob, who are aged between three and 14 years old – have been putting together 250 pamper packs for healthcare workers, containing items such as soap, candles and slippers. Two other AHVW members are helping Mrs Edwards to drop the packs off to midwives, mental health nurses, community workers, social workers, paramedics and other healthcare employees across Wyndham, Bacchus Marsh and St Albans.

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Hospital staff face COVID strain By Alesha Capone Werribee Mercy Hospital says that it is experiencing “increased pressure” as COVID-19 cases rise across the state. A Mercy Health spokesperson said on Monday that the Werribee hospital “is seeing increased demand in its emergency department (ED) as COVID-19 cases in the community rise”. “Given the high rate of COVID-19 in the Wyndham and broader community, we have a number of staff furloughed, which is placing additional strain on our staff,” the spokesperson said. “Like all Victorian hospitals, we are

experiencing increased pressure, however we are currently managing the COVID-19 demand in our hospital and maintaining services where possible.” As of Monday, 17 active COVID-19 cases were linked to a cluster at the Werribee Mercy’s Emergency Department. This figure stood at 29 active cases on Thursday, January 13. The Mercy Health spokesperson said that Werribee Mercy Hospital was not a COVID-19 testing site, and that community members needing a test should attend a public testing site or use a rapid antigen test (RAT). MyClinic Werribee GP, Dr Joe Garra, said

many medical practices were low on staff at the moment, due to workers needing to isolate or being diagnosed with COVID. Dr Garra said the “the biggest issue” facing medical clinics was people contacting them and asking what to do in regards to taking a RAT. “The government is not giving much practical advice to people,” he said. Dr Garra said authorities needed to provide clearer guidelines on how to use RATs; how to interpret RAT results; and what to do if someone tested positive to a RAT. “RATs are good to confirm you gave got COVID, but they are not great at telling you that you don’t have it – if you test negative, you

could still have COVID,” he said. Meanwhile, on Monday, the state government announced a $1.2 million program to help people from multicultural backgrounds access COVID-19 vaccinations. In total, eight Victorian community organisations, including the Junubi Wyndham Community Support Group, will deliver tailored support to engage people online and at shopping centres, and coordinate pop-up vaccination hubs. The Junubi group, which assists South Sudanese youth and families, is based at the Wyndham Community and Education Centre.

Full of Grace in the air Tarneit’s Grace Bowater describes the opportunity to perform her aerial silks act with the Circus Royale as “like a dream come true”. Miss Bowater, 20, is an instructor at the Circus Fit Studio in Hoppers Crossing. She is proficient in both aerial silks and aerial trapeze. Miss Bowater said that before Circus Royale arrived in Truganina for a series of shows earlier this month, they asked her studio if they had anyone who could join them as a performer while they were in town. “I was selected and I was ecstatic,” Miss Bowater said. “It’s been an amazing opportunity to get to work with Circus Royale, everyone there has been so nice and welcoming.” Miss Bowater said the way she first became

involved in aerial silks and trapeze was “a funny story”. “My mum bought my first trapeze lesson as a joke because I was scared of heights,” Miss Bowater said. “But I fell in love with it.” Aged about 14, she joined the Circus Fit Studio as a student and has not looked back since. Miss Bowater is also in her third year of university, studying to become a paramedic, in addition working as an instructor at Circus Fit Studio. “I love kids and just the feeling of seeing a young person not being able to do anything, to being able to do something and be confident and smile, is the best feeling in the world.” Circus Royale performances will be held weekdays (except Mondays) at the corner Palmers and Leakes roads, Truganina, until January 30.

Grace Bowater, performing her aerial silks act at Circus Royale.

(Supplied/Circus Royale)

Summer construction in Melbourne’s west 11 January - 28 February 2022

This summer, crews will be working hard to widen the West Gate Freeway from 8 to 12 lanes. There will be 24/7 lane and ramp closures on the Freeway and at the M80 and Williamstown Road interchanges to get the job done. Plan your travel in advance – major delays are expected. Date Locations 11 Jan – M80 Ring Road (Altona-bound) ramp to Princes Freeway (Geelong-bound) 28 Feb West Gate Freeway outbound exit ramp to M80 Ring Road (Greensborough-bound) Williamstown Road inbound entry ramp West Gate Freeway inbound lane closure (above Williamstown Road) 11 Jan – Williamstown Road in both directions under the West Gate Freeway 14 Feb Williamstown Road inbound exit ramp

If you’re planning to travel through these areas make sure you plan your trip in advance and seek alternative routes. Major delays are expected.

Find a detailed list of disruptions at bigbuild.vic.gov.au Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne

Wednesday, 19 January, 2022 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY 3

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New family centre Wyndham council has awarded a $6.73 million contract to build the future Manor Lakes North Integrated Family Centre in Malt Drive. Devco Project & Construction Management has been chosen for the project. Construction is due to start this month and finish by January, 2023.

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School project An $11.23 million upgrade of Doherty’s Creek P-9 College in Truganina has been completed. Tarneit MP Sarah Connolly said the project, funded by the state government, has resulted in new sports courts and learning facilities built at the school.

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EdConnect Australia volunteer Patricia Pallot. (Supplied)

Connecting with pupils Patricia Pallot has been helping school pupils to develop resilience and find friendships during the COVID-19 pandemic. Ms Pallot started volunteering with the charity EdConnect Australia in 2020. Volunteers from EdConnect Australia assist students in need and in the classroom with subjects such as numeracy, reading and science. Last year Ms Pallot mentored a small group of primary-aged Truganina P-9 College pupils. “On a particular week, the students described how concerned they were about COVID-19 and how they had experienced the loss of family members and felt stressed at home,” she said. Ms Pallot said she involved the pupils in games such as snakes and ladders, while talking about each other’s cultures and how they were coping at home and at school.

4 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 19 January, 2022

“The following week I learnt that these students who previously were ‘not friends on the playground’ began to play together and look out for one another,” Ms Pallot said. EdConnect Australia’s western region liaison officer, Rhonda Velkovski, said the organisation’s “amazing volunteers” made a big difference in students’ lives. “We recruit, screen and train skilled volunteers to provide life-changing mentoring or learning support to students in local schools who might struggle to realise their potential, in school and life,” Ms Velkovski said. EdConnect Australia is looking for new volunteers to help out at Wyndham schools this year. Details: www.edconnectaustralia.org.au, edconnect@edconnect.org.au or 1800 668 550.

Energy Safe Victoria (ESV) is calling on Victorians to ensure they keep drones and cranes clear of powerlines. ESV is investigating an incident which occurred on January 5 at Brimbank Park, which resulted in two men aged in their forties being taken to hospital after they were injured while allegedly trying to retrieve a drone stuck in powerlines. Under the Electricity Safety Act, Victorians cannot fly drones weighing less than two kilograms within three metres of powerlines.

FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Wyndham Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

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New gaming venue is approved By Alesha Capone

failed to make a decision on the planning application within a prescribed timeframe. However, the council later declared it would have refused to grant the permit for reasons including that “the proposed gaming is contrary to the existing gaming local planning policy”. The matter was heard by VCAT senior member Rachel Naylor and member Joel Templar on November 8, 9, 11, 12 and 15, who released their decision approving the proposal on January 6. Apart from the 170 gaming machines, the Tarneit venue will include a bistro, sports bar, cafe, three function rooms, office/meeting

A proposal to build a licensed venue with business, dining and entertainment facilities in Tarneit, including 70 gaming machines, has been approved by the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT). Developer Willoby Investment Nominees (WNI) is hoping to build the $12 million two-storey complex, to be managed by Werribee Football Club, at 620 Leakes Road, Tarneit (which is also known as 115 Woods Road, Truganina). Tribunal documents show that WNI took the case to VCAT after Wyndham council

rooms and 187 car spaces. The venue will cater to a maximum of 600 patrons at any one time and operate between 8am- 2am seven days a week. The bistro will have 200 seats and a children’s play area, while the sports bar will be able to host 76 patrons plus an additional 16 people pm within an external deck area. The cafe will have 30 seats. Outside of the perimeter of the site, it is proposed to remove native vegetation in order to construct shared public pathways near Skeleton Creek to the east and a wetland reserve to the north. In a written summary of the VCAT decision,

Ms Naylor and Mr Templer stated that construction of the licensed venue would be “an acceptable outcome” under the Truganina Precinct Structure Plan and Leakes Road Urban Design Framework. A written summary of their decision read: “The location of and the premises of the proposed electronic gaming machines is appropriate.” The document stated that the location of the venue would not “create an unacceptable risk of creating or exacerbating problem gambling”.

Hot summer of tennis People of all ages are being invited to participate in the Wyndham Summer of Tennis community sessions. Wyndham council has partnered with the dnta tennis academy, Origin Tennis and Smash Tennis to offer the program, which includes free tennis sessions for children and adults. The sessions will cater to players for all abilities, including those who have never picked up a tennis racquet before. Tennis lessons are being held at the Saltwater Reserve Tennis Centre in Point Cook until Friday, January 28. The sessions, for children aged between five and 16 years old, will run daily between 9am and noon. Dane Nebel from dnta said the school holiday program has been incredibly popular. “It’s been overwhelming with the response

and to see the number of people enrolling,” Mr Nebel said. Kids’ tennis sessions will also be held at the Galvin Park Tennis Courts, 95 Shaws Road, Werribee on Friday, January 21 from 9-10.15am (ages four to 10 years old) and 10.15-11.45am (ages 11 to 17 years old). Participants are advised to bring a water bottle and to wear hats, sunscreen and appropriate clothing to prevent sunburn. Attendees will be asked to check in with a staff member on arrival for contact tracing purposes, scan a QR code and show evidence of their COVID-19 vaccination status (depending on their age). Attendees must also comply with all state government COVID-19 restrictions. To book in for the school holiday program, email Mr Nebel at dnta@live.com.au or call 0416 180 989.

Young tennis players Shireen, 10, and Shreevidya, 14, with assistant coach Dejan Trajlov.

(Damjan

Janevski). 264453_02

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Homes planned close to Wyndham City Stadium A new estate with 2300 residential lots will be built in Tarneit close to the Wyndham City Stadium, a Melbourne-based property developer announced last week. SIG Group has acquired a 162-hectare site near the future Sayers Road stadium. The statement from SIG Group said the estate would be located “a stone’s throw” from the $150 million Wyndham City Stadium, which will become home to the A-League soccer team Western United. SIG Group director Hugh Lu said the future estate’s western edge was bordered by the Werribee River. “Future residents will have access to state-of-the-art amenities, right on their doorstep, while immersing themselves in

nature via purpose-built wetlands and river frontages,” he said. “The future Sayers Road train station means residents will be highly connected to Melbourne’s CBD, while being walking distance to the major activity centre of the Wyndham City Stadium.” Last year, SIG Group acquired a 56-hectare site on Derrimut Road in Tarneit. An estate named Harlow, consisting of about 600 lots, will be constructed at the location. Over 12-hectares of the Harlow land has been retained by Al-Taqwa College to develop a new school campus. The master-planned community will also feature more than 10 hectares of open

space including a sports reserve, waterways, wetlands and a park. A government primary school is being planned for the site, too. “Tarneit is a rapidly expanding suburb, with the population forecast to grow exponentially over the next 20 years, these two sites collectively will cater to this population boom,” Mr Lu said. The Wyndham City Stadium, which is being built in partnership with Wyndham council and The Western Melbourne Group, will have 15,000 seats. The project includes a convention and business centre, shops, restaurants, education campuses, car parking, hotels, health facilities, a sports science centre and a 5000-seat elite training facility.

The futute estate will be located with the Oakbank Precinct Structure Plan area. (Supplied/ SIG Group).

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Melbourne Storm players will head to Werribee on Friday for a special open training session. Storm members and fans living in the area will be able to attend Victoria University’s Wyndham Sporting Complex in Hoppers Lane, to see their team preparing for the start of the NRL season. The open session follows on from a similar successful event held in Hume just before the Christmas-New Year break. Storm will also hold a training session at Casey Fields next month to complete their trip around Melbourne’s outer suburbs, which is where support for rugby league is among the strongest in the state. Gates for the free Werribee session will open at 2pm, with training set to kick off from 2.30pm. Following training, players will participate in interviews, followed by a free NRL Victoria junior clinic for children. Food trucks and team mascot Storm Man will be feature at the event. Details: https://www.melbournestorm. com.au/

Business support Wyndham council has provided $201,000 in funding to 25 small local businesses to foster entrepreneurship and innovation within the community. Allocated under the council’s 2021-22 budget, the grants of $2000, $5000 and $10,000 have been given to selected applicants who have their principal place of business within Wyndham. To be eligible for funding, applicants were required to demonstrate they are run by sole proprietorships or partnerships without employees, or that they employ five people or less. This is the second year of the council’s business funding program, which received a total of 69 applications. Examples of the types of initiatives funded by the program include business training and skills development which focus on accelerating business start-up initiation, business growth or diversification; innovative product and service research; and the development of new technologies. Businesses awarded grants under the latest round of the program include a home-made food production business located in Williams Landing, a Point Cook handmade market and a Truganina electrical contractor. Details: https://www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/

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Parking petition gains support By Alesha Capone Wyndham council has received a petition requesting that a section of the Woodville Shopping Centre carpark be reserved for a nearby special school and other visitors to use free-of-charge. The council will respond to the petition, which contains 198 signatures, at a public meeting to be held in February. The petition was started by Barrie Hope, a supervisor at the Warringa Park School crossing, last year. Mr Hope said that school staff and parents have used a section of the shopping centre car park for decades without any issues.

However he said that during 2021, the body corporate which owns the carpark barricaded entry to the site with temporary fencing and signs – which have since been removed – threatening to tow away vehicles not belonging to shopping centre customers. School staff were informed they could park at the site if they paid $8 per day. Mr Hope said school staff usually parked on the far left side of the carpark, leaving the area close to the shops free for truck deliveries, shoppers and visitors to an adjacent park. The petition is asking for Wyndham council to intervene to keep this particular section of the carpark free for the school and

customers to use, including if a development is proposed for the site. The petition reads: “The owners of the land have made free parking available for the school use for over 30 years and the teachers and staff have reciprocated by supporting the shops over the years. “The carpark owners now demand unacceptable parking fees from all-day parking school staff. “If the school cannot use the car park, they will be forced to park on the surrounding streets creating parking problems for residents and more traffic congestion in the area. “The parents of disabled children need a safe area to drop off their children and

the car park is perfectly positioned for that purpose.” The petition also states that any development proposal submitted to the council, which would lead to construction of buildings on the site, “should be carefully examined for the impact it may have on traffic flow in the area”. “We the community believe a car park is only logical and community acceptable purpose for the land and seek council intervention to secure written agreement to maintain the status quo,” the document states. Some of the Woodville traders last year had the petition in their stores for customers to sign.

Showcase puts dancers en pointe Two young Wyndham dancers are taking a star turn with the Western Ballet Project (WBP). The program, run by artistic director Sophie O’Donnell, holds regular classical workshops and two productions a year. The WBP hosts auditions for each production, with a maximum of 35 ballet students selected to participate in each show. The WBP’s latest show, Mary Stuart. The Escape from Loch Leven, premiered at the Altona Theatre at the weekend. In the lead-up to the concerts, cast members – including Point Cook’s Jemma Thompson and Werribee’s Alina Nadelyayeva, both 15 – were busy rehearsing in a Melton studio. Jemma said she has studied with Dancemax

Studios for 12 years and the WBP for three years. “I love multiple things about performing and rehearsing with the Western Ballet project,” she said. “Overall I think it is such a wonderful opportunity to be able to train and perform with the Western Ballet Project, and I love being a part of the company.” Alina, who has also been studying dance for 12 years, said she has appeared in three productions with the WBP. “Something I most enjoy about dancing is being able to tell a story through movement to an audience,” she said. “Being part of the Western Ballet Project I have been able to perform on stage in

different productions, telling different stories to an audience. “I encourage other young dancers to come and participate in the Western Ballet Project in future workshops, classes and auditions, as it is a wonderful opportunity for all.” Details: https://thewesternballetproject. com.au Alesha Capone

Dancers Alina and Jemma at a dress rehearsal last week. (Damjan Janevski). 264416

Wednesday, 19 January, 2022 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY 7

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Volunteering is fruitful By Alesha Capone Christine Mak has been recognised with a Lalor Hero Award for her role as a volunteer leader at Werribee Park Heritage Orchard (WPHO). Lalor MP Joanne Ryan recently presented Ms Mak with the award, which acknowledges residents and groups who “go above and beyond” to help the community. Ms Mak, who lives in West Footscray, said it was an honour to receive the award. “It is really a team effort at the orchard – I help to organise the activities, but it is the hard work and dedication of our members to make things happen at the orchard,” she said. A group of volunteers maintains the orchard, which dates back to the 1870s and features less-common species of fruit trees. The WPHO volunteers also research heritage trees and host school visits at the orchard. They run twice-yearly grafting and sales days, along with other fundraising activates, to raise money for their activities. Ms Mak said she began volunteering at the orchard after attending a Winter Grafting Day in 2016 and joined the WPHO committee in 2017. As well, she has served on the Grafting Day subcommittee, and as nursery co-ordinator and vice president. “The major focus of WPHO is to preserve heritage varieties of fruit trees and fruiting plants,” Ms Mak said. “This is the work that I enjoy most.” Her fellow WPHO volunteer John Marks said that during Ms Mak’s time at the orchard, she has upgraded many records, procedures and communication measures within the volunteer group. “She is the heart and soul of WPHO, a dedicated hard worker, popular and deserving

Werribee Park Heritage Orchard volunteer leader Christine Mak (left) has been presented with a Lalor Hero Award by MP Joanne Ryan (right). (Supplied/M Mally)

of the award,” Mr Marks said. Ms Mak described the heritage orchard as her “happy place”. “I often go to the orchard when I finish work on Saturday afternoon,” she added. “It is the best spot to relax and unwind. “I would like to invite everyone to visit

WPHO, to join us on Friday morning(s) for an orchard session or to explore Werribee Park at your leisure. ‘It is such a hidden gem in the city of Wyndham.” Details: https://werribeeparkheritageorchard. org.au/

Turf chief dies The Victorian Turf Cricket Association is mourning the shock death of president Steve McNamara. McNamara, who had been president of the association for nearly 10 years, died on Saturday. He had been an influential figure in the local cricket for a number of years. The VTCA division 2 competition is named after McNamara, along with that grade’s best and fairest award. Local cricket clubs took to social media paying tribute to McNamara, including Hoppers Crossing where he was previously club president. Hoppers Crossing president Jake Porter told Star Weekly that McNamara had played such an important role at the club for a long time. “He was president the last time that we won a first XI premiership,” he said. “He was a volunteer, a junior and senior coach and president for six years. Him and his entire family had an impact on the club. “It is a shock to lose him.” Porter said the club would wear black arms this weekend in honour of McNamara. He said that McNamara’s influence on cricket as a whole in Melbourne’s north-west can’t be underestimated. Sydenham-Hillside on its Facebook page said McNamara was an extremely dedicated and supportive cricket administrator and was particularly helpful to the club in its early years on turf. Sunshine United and Sunshine YCW are among the other clubs to pay tribute to McNamara. McNamara leaves behind his wife Josie and children John and Daniel.

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Rent slug for community groups Wyndham council is proposing to introduce rents of up to $421 a year for its facilities that some community groups currently use free-of-charge. The proposal is included in the council’s draft Lease and Licence Policy, which is available for public feedback until 11.59pm on January 31. Under the proposal, community tenants that are not charged rent, or pay rent below the proposed $421 per annum plus GST to occupy council premises, will be required to start paying to use these facilities. It is proposed that the $421 payment

will increase annually at a rate comparable to the consumer price index (CPI), depending on each group’s income and trading activities. The council is planning to introduce the charge over a three-year period. There will be no rent charged in the first year of the policy, a 50 per cent charge in the second year (proportioned to each lease or licenced area) and the full rental amount will be applied in the third year. The proposed rent will not apply to casual room hire, seasonal licence agreements that are covered by the Wyndham Sporting Facility User Guide, telecommunications

agreement, management service agreements, and groups which use facilities under the state’s Early Years Partnership Framework. A council report into the draft policy stated that the “much consideration was given to the question of rent for community tenants”. “The proposed rent of $421 amounts to a small contribution towards ongoing administration associated with each tenancy,” the document stated. The report noted that several community tenants of Wyndham council’s are already paying $421 per year in rent. The council last year sent letters its 12 community tenants that either “currently

pay little or no rent”, or that have no rental agreement in place. Out of the 12 tenant groups contacted, some provided written feedback to the council. “While many of the impacted community tenants accept the proposed rent, it is noted that the payment of any rent at all was an issue for some,” the council report stated. Some of the tenants requested the council provide them with additional services such as hard rubbish collection, if they are required to pay rent or a higher rent in the future. Details: theloop.wyndham.vic.gov.au/leaseand-license-policy

Students are On Track thanks to music program The ON TRACK music program for students aged 12 to 18 years old returns to Werribee this week. The initiative, which will run until Friday, January 21, is free for young people to participate in. Developed by the Mushroom Group and supported by the state government, the ON TRACK school holiday project brings in Australian hip hop artists to mentor students. Throughout the week, students receive DJ training and have the chance to write, rap and perform their own music. A day of dance and music celebration featuring AFROBEAT African Drumming and L2R Dance Crew will be held as well. In past years, ON TRACK has hosted

14 programs across Dandenong, Hoppers Crossing, Melton, St Albans, Braybrook and Tarneit, engaging with more than 250 students. ON TRACK lead DJ and creative workshop mentor, DJ Rojdar, said: “ON TRACK is an amazing music program that gives local students a real life insight into how the professionals work and create music, even using the same top of the range music gear.” ON TRACK will be held at the Werribee Football Club (in The Huddle Room), 150-226 Watton Street, Werribee. All participants are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and provide proof of vaccination. Registrations are essential. Details: www. ontrackmusic.com.au

Students Preet, Regina and Janet took part in a previous ON TRACK project in St Albans. (Joe Mastroianni). 203021

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Wednesday, 19 January, 2022 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY 9

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Fines or prison for illegal traps By Alesha Capone RSPCA Victoria is reminding the community that steel jaw animal traps, in which pet cats often become caught, are illegal. Using the leg-hold traps is against the law, no matter what types of animals people are trying to capture. Illegal animal traps are specifically designed to cause severe damage, with animals who get caught in them commonly experiencing ligament injuries, nerve damage and bone fractures. RSPCA Victoria Inspectorate team leader Belinda Dent said the traps were “inhumane”.

“Too many times we have seen beloved family pets suffer excruciating pain and distress, and it is not uncommon for these injuries to necessitate amputation of an entire limb,” Ms Dent said. “These serrated steel traps are illegal to use, set and sell, unless they are a permitted trap as prescribed under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Regulations 2019.” Anyone found guilty of using, setting or selling the traps can face a maximum penalty of $43,617.60 or up to two years’ imprisonment. During the past 12 months, the RSPCA has recorded 12 instances of illegal animal traps being found across the north and west.

Three of the traps were located in the Whittlesea municipality and two each in Wyndham, Melton and Hobsons Bay. One trap was found in Brimbank, one in Banyule and one in Darebin. During August last year, a domestic shorthair cat named Kale was found caught in an illegal trap near the intersection of Melton Avenue and Clayton Street, Sunshine North. The trap was set with a meat bone attached to it with wire. After being found by his owner, Kale required emergency veterinary treatment for his leg injuries. An RSPCA Victoria statement said that

Kale “suffered excruciating pain and suffering prior to being located”. RSPCA Victoria inspectors are still investigating the matter of whoever set up the trap. RSPCA Victoria is urging anyone with steel jaw traps to dismantle them as much as possible to render them inoperable, and then make arrangements to dispose of them. Anyone who has concerns about the welfare of an animal or has information relating to illegal traps can make a report to RSPCA Victoria’s inspectorate. Details: rspcavic.org/report or call 9224 2222.

Call for blood donors An Australian Red Cross Lifeblood pop-up donor centre visited Tarneit for the first time last week. Residents were able to book in to donate at blood at the pop-up centre, which was based at the Dianella Community Centre from Monday through to Friday. Lifeblood spokesperson Erin Lagoudakis said the team enjoyed meeting local donors. The Lifeblood pop-centre will return to Tarneit again later this year from April 11 to 15, July 11 to 15 and October 10 to 14. “A blood donation is needed every 18 seconds and we need more donors now than ever before which is why our pop-up donor centre visits have been expanded to include Tarneit,” Ms Lagoudakis said. One-in-three Australians will need blood or a blood product in their lifetime, but only one in 30 citizens donates blood.

Donated blood goes to support cancer patients, those involved in road accidents, pregnant women, newborn babies and others. The Werribee Donor Centre is also seeking more volunteer blood donors. Lifeblood spokesperson Stephanie Reynolds said that platelets in donated blood only lasted for seven days. “It takes four blood donations to make just one bag of platelets, which plays a vital role in clotting and cancer treatment,” she said. “We need a constant, fresh supply across the holidays to meet the needs of patients.” To book in to make a blood donation at the pop-up donor centre in Tarneit or the Werribee Blood Donor Centre, visit lifeblood. com.au, call 13 14 95 or download the free Donate Blood app. Alesha Capone

Wyndham mayor Peter Maynard donated blood in Tarneit last week.

(Damjan Janevski). 264275

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Festival set to light up Werribee An immersive showcase named LIT will be held in Werribee later this year, to replace an annual cheese festival on the Wyndham events calendar. Wyndham council’s LIT spectacular will see Wyndham Park become “a glowing wonderland” each night from 8pm – 11pm, between February 25 and March 6. LIT will be staged in place of the Fromage a Trois cheese festival, which was previously held yearly at Werribee Park, before the COVID-19 pandemic. Council documents from last month stated that LIT would replace the cheese festival in 2022 “as cheesemongers and businesses have said they are not prepared to be involved (in Fromage A Trois)”. The cheese festival previously attracted thousands of visitors to Wyndham each time it was held.

Lost Dogs’ Disco by ENESS. (Supplied)

Mayor Peter Maynard said that the LIT program “would provide a magical experience for visitors of all ages”. “Wyndham Park will be transformed each night with trees drenched in colour, glowing native creatures and other illuminated works

that celebrate the natural beauty of this parkland setting,” Cr Maynard said. “We’re thrilled that visitors will also be among the first to experience a new work – Lost Dogs’ Disco, with its Victorian premiere from Melbourne-based art and technology

studio ENESS.” The colourful inflatable dogs, some of which stand up to 5.5 metres tall, will light up and greet people with a chorus of growls, barks and howls. Wyndham’s creative city portfolio holder, Cr Marcel Mahfoud, encouraged residents to experience the wonder of LIT during its 10-night season. “Visitors will be able to explore Lantasia by The Lanternist – a glowing trail of animal sculptures, leave a lasting impression on the GloWall and be part of the art with the Bridge of Dreams, where you can share your dreams via QR code and see them projected onto the bridge over the course of the evening,” Cr Mahfoud said No bookings will be required to attend LIT, which will be held at Wyndham Park (entry via Wedge Street Piazza, Werribee). Details: wyndham.vic.gov.au/LIT

Youth Cup sparks competitive fun Project and Youth Cup event. A Wyndham council spokesperson said 15 teams participated in the cup and 14 games of soccer were played. “There were lots of smiling faces, laughter and enjoyment,” the spokesperson said. “There were a range of food vans and activities on offer on the day which were very popular.” Some comments from the young participants included: “It was fun to play soccer and verse our friends.” “The six week course showed me how I can improve my fitness.” “The empowerment course helped me to

Edward, from Wyndham’s Youth Services team, at the Youth Cup. (Supplied/Wyndham council)

think about my mental health and ways to deal with problems.”

“We really enjoyed playing in the Youth Cup this year and look forward to the next one.”

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Wyndham council’s Youth Services team hosted a sports event on Friday, January 14 at Arndell Park. The Youth Cup was a culmination of a six-week program that involved young people aged between 12 and 25 years old, from different cultural backgrounds, taking part in a sports and fitness Youth Empowerment Project. Representatives from the Western United Football Club, the Huddle, Football Empowerment, Headspace, Centre of Multicultural Youth and Activate Youth worked with young people in the program. The Department of Family Fairness and Housing funded the Youth Empowerment

Wednesday, 19 January, 2022 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY 11

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Labor puts forward candidates By Alesha Capone Both new and familiar faces are among the Labor Party candidates pre-selected to stand in the seats of Point Cook, Tarneit and Werribee at this year’s state election. While veteran Werribee MP and Treasurer Tim Pallas looks set to re-contest his electorate at the polls on November 26, Altona MP Jill Hennessy last year announced that she would retire before the 2022 election. Tarneit MP Sarah Connolly, who was elected in 2018, has been preselected for the newly-created seat of Laverton.

In her stead, Australian Manufacturing Workers Union (AMWU) organiser Dylan Wight has been preselected for Tarneit. Mat Hilakari has been pre-selected for Point Cook, a new electorate created during the redistribution of electoral boundaries in 2021, which takes in parts of the Wyndham and Hobsons Bay municipalities. Mr Hilakari, who previously lived in Melbourne’s south-east with his family, last year said he was in the process of moving to the Point Cook electorate. Mr Hilakari said he has served as a board member for several disability advocacy organisations, a company

director, a researcher and writer. “I’m glad to be moving to an area so close to many of my family and friends, and with a growing vibrant multicultural community,” he said. “My first political involvement in the area was the 2010 Altona by-election to support Jill Hennessy. “It is an honour to be Labor’s candidate for Point Cook and I am committed to working every day to deliver for the community. “My priorities are to be an advocate for ongoing and secure jobs, great schools, quality health care and ongoing improvements to

infrastructure and transport.” Mr Wight said that before working for the AMWU, he worked a range of blue-collar jobs while putting himself through university and raising his two young sons. “In (my) seven years as a union official, I have campaigned unceasingly for manufacturing jobs in Melbourne’s west,” he said. Mr Wight said he planned to move to the Tarneit if he was elected. “It’s hard to describe how honoured I am to be given the opportunity to contest the electorate of Tarneit at the next election,” he said.

New foal joins zoo herd Werribee Open Range Zoo has welcomed the birth of its first male zebra in four years. Born on Sunday, January 9, colt Zintlanu (pronounced Zint-lan-oo) – meaning number five in the Xhosa language of South Africa – is the fifth baby for mother Zaide and father Melako. Zintlanu’s arrival follows the births of three other foals, who were born at the zoo during the past 12 months. Werribee Open Range Zoo savannah keeper Lance Weldhagen said it was an exciting to watch the foals interacting with one another. “Zintlanu has found his feet very quickly,” Mr Weldhagen said. “He has very long legs, is very strong and healthy, and is drinking from mum.” Zoos Victoria animal welfare and life sciences senior manager, Amanda Embury, said that hopefully Zintlanu would join the zoo’s breeding program to support his species.

Plains zebras are native to Africa and classified as near-threatened in the wild. Their population of 250,000 is in decline, with major threats including competing with agriculture, hunting, war and droughts caused by climate change. The zebras at Werribee Open Range Zoo form part of a regional breeding program to maintain a genetically diverse herd that can support conservation of wild zebra populations. Visitors to Werribee Open Range Zoo can see Zintlanu and the other zebra foals while on a bus tour, which runs throughout the day and is included in entry. Zoos Victoria members and zoo visitors must pre-book their tickets online at zoo.org.au All ticketholders 18 years and older are required to provide proof of their full COVID-19 vaccination and follow state government directions.

Zebra foal Zintlanu is the fifth baby for mother Zaide.

(Supplied/Zoos Victoria).

Print and Online Sales Executive Star Weekly Star Weekly seeks an enthusiastic sales executive to work across our print, digital, social and online platforms. Star Weekly is an independently owned company which prides itself on its long history of community experience but also its investment in the future. The successful applicant will need to possess good people skills to enable them to meet with local businesses to sell solutions through our advertising platforms to help promote their business. Sales skills/experience: • Ability to maintain existing professional relationships and to create new ones • Ability to meet defined sales and activity targets • Excellent listening skills • Accuracy and attention to detail • Effective time management to meet deadlines • Ability to operate in a team • Demonstrates initiative and flexibility • Effective oral and written communication

Have your say Melbourne Airport Rail will connect Melbourne Airport to the rail network for the ﬁrst time, getting people to where they need to go with easy transfers to metro and regional lines and trips into the heart of the city in around 30 minutes. Trains will run from a new station at the airport to Sunshine Station, then through the Metro Tunnel into the CBD before continuing on to the Cranbourne and Pakenham lines.

— Planning and environmental matters — Walking and cycling connections. Complete the survey Let us know what matters to you by completing the online survey at airportrail.vic.gov.au/survey or calling 1800 105 105.

Applicants will need their own reliable vehicle for which we will provide an allowance.

You can learn more about Melbourne Airport Rail by visiting airportrail.vic.gov.au.

The position is salaried, plus we offer an open ended commission scheme. Send your application letter and resume to: Mandy Clark Group Advertising Sales Manager mandy.clark@starnewsgroup.com.au

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So far this year we have sought community feedback to help us shape the project scope and how we manage potential construction impacts.

We are now seeking feedback on:

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14 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 19 January, 2022

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MY PLACE Scott Johnston was named Point Cook Football Club’s 2021 Best Clubperson of the Year. He chats with Alesha Capone. How did you first become involved with the club? I first became involved in the club when my son was aged nine, he is now 21 years old. During his second season, his coach at the time wanted to coach his younger son – who was playing for a different team – so I stepped in. I coached Zach all the way to the under-16s. When he went into the under-17s and senior footy, I stood back and let the experts takeover. He played with the reserves last season. Myself, I finished playing footy too early. It’s something that I always wanted to get involved with, coaching kids. I served as the under-16 girls’ coach last year, and I will be doing so again this year, alongside senior men’s captain Nick Buykx. It sounds like your family is pretty involved in football. My father Graeme was a club legend down at West Newport Football Club. He coached a couple of junior teams, while me and my brother played there, I think when I was knee-high to a grasshopper. I remember my junior football coach, Stan, even to the girls I coach nowadays I say some of the things that he said to me. He certainly gave me a lot of fond memories and had a big impact on my life. Just the impression that he left on me, it gives me that fuzzy feeling that I could have that impact on some other younger players. I don’t know if I am having that impact, you’d have to ask the girls. What do you enjoy most about being

involved with the Point Cook Football Club? I like seeing Zack and his friends develop from the start of the season to the end. It’s a good sense of achievement at the end of it all. How did you feel to receive the Best Clubperson of the Year award? It’s actually, truthfully, made me feel a bit uncomfortable about it all. There maybe were a few others who deserved it before me, there are a lot of people around the club who do a great job. I am just a coach. What’s your approach as a coach? There have been seasons where I have coached more than one team. If other teams need help, I just help out when I can. I think you have to go down there and be yourself and the kids will have fun, they will see through you if you pretend to be someone else. Make it fun for the kids, that’s the main thing – win, lose or draw, make it fun for them and they will come back.

Scott Johnston (left) pictured with fellow Point Cook Football Club volunteer Ash May. (Supplied/ Steve Morrison).

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Catch Sunset Safari spectacular It’s a rare opportunity to be able to travel to Africa to witness first-hand its most spectacular wildlife basking in the glow of summer’s sunset. But for residents of Melbourne’s west, this unique experience is all being made possible just around the corner from home. Commencing this January, Werribee Open Range Zoo’s quintessential after-hours wildlife experience, Sunset Safari, is providing visitors with an enchanting and immersive safari adventure to remember, and will run for 10 weeks until March 13. Visitors can experience the zoo’s glorious savannah during a personalised safari bus tour as the sunset illuminates the open range, and explore the walking trails to witness some of the world’s most iconic animals including rhinoceros, giraffes, zebras, ostriches, lions and hippopotamus. During the unforgettable evening, visitors will learn from zoo guides about efforts to fight wildlife extinction, and meet and talk to zoo staff as they journey through the walking trails. The tour also includes interactive and authentic performances of drums, song and dance to the rhythm and soul of Africa, and comes with a range of food and beverage options – including bistro dining, canapes, cocktails and an African village braai. Werribee Open Range Zoo director Glen

A giraffe on the savannah at Werribee Open Range Zoo.

Holland said Sunset Safari is an authentic African-inspired experience that people can encounter just minutes from home. “Sunset Safari allows visitors to experience the essence of Africa, and there’s no plane ticket required,” Mr Holland said. “Its the perfect setting for people to connect with nature and wildlife as the sun sets on the picturesque Savannah. “Through the stories your zoo guide shares, you will learn about the plight of species the wild and how you can join us on our journey to secure a future rich in wildlife.” Sunset Safari is held from 5.30pm to 9pm each Saturday and Sunday from January 8 to March 13.

(Supplied/Zoos Victoria)

Entry to the special after-hours event costs $59 for adults and $29 for children. Food and drink packages are sold separately and can be pre-booked or purchased on the night. Sunset Safari helps Zoos Victoria support international partners including the Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre, which specialise in wildlife conservation and research, animal rescues and community outreach programs. Zoos Victoria members and Werribee Open Range Zoo visitors are reminded that all tickets must be pre-booked online at zoo.org.au and all ticketholders 18 years and over are required to provide proof of full vaccination and follow Victorian

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16 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 19 January, 2022

Sunset Safari at Werribee Open Range Zoo. (Supplied/Zoos Victoria)

government directions at www.coronavirus. vic.gov.au To book or for more information visit www. zoo.org.au/sunsetsafari

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BEHIND THE NEWS

Aiden, 10, enjoys Funfields. 264213

Splashing through the holidays W

ith the temperatures rising last week, people of all ages decided to hit the water to try and cool down. Early in the week, many people headed to Altona beach, making the most of the open space. Others headed to pools like Sunshine Leisure Centre, Melton Waves and the Sunbury Aquatic and Leisure Centre outdoor pool. The pools had plenty of activities for children, and parents could either join in or watch from the sidelines. The pools were also popular places for teenagers to catch up with their mates. Others took their love for the water a bit further and headed to Funfields Themepark in Whittlesea for a day out. As well as all the slides and water fun, families could enjoy the Mystic Kingdom, thrill rides, go-karts and mini golf. Star Weekly photographer Damjan Janevski headed out to capture some of the fun.

Altona Beach.

264022

Siblings Sophie,7, and Austin, 3,enjoy Altona beach.

Siblings Akem and Abraham at Melton Waves.

Cartel, Colton, Jacinta and Cordel have some fun at Melton Waves.

Anna and daughter Addie at Sunshine.

264439

264380

Thrill seekers making the most of the rides at Funfields. 264213

Loretta and three-year-old Henrietta at Sunshine. 264439

Ten-year-old Tilly at the Sunbury Aquatic and Leisure Centre. 264222

Six-year-old Jesse at Sunbury Aquatic and Leisure Centre. 264222 Wednesday, 19 January, 2022 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY 17

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

Art show The Little River Art Exhibition 2022 will be held on Saturday, January 29 ,from 10am-4pm and Sunday, January 30, from 10am-2pm at the Mechanics Hall, Rothwell Road, Little River. ■ makarakasch@gmail.com

Quilt-In Wyndham Patchworkers is holding its 25th anniversary Quilt-In on February 12 at St James the Apostle Catholic Church Hall, 336 Derrimut Road, Hoppers Crossing from 10am to 3.30pm, with Veronique Diligent as guest speaker. The day will include a raffle, door prizes, show and tell and four local traders. Due to COVID-19 requirements there will be no door sales, so all attendees must pre-book via www. trybooking.com. Tickets: $15 including morning/afternoon tea. BYO lunch. Proof of vaccination status or medical exemption required. ■ Donna Morris, 0417 268 887

Education volunteers EdConnect Australia is on the search for Wyndham residents to mentor and volunteer with students for the 2022 school year. The charity places volunteers in local schools to help improve the lives of vulnerable young people and equip them with life skills. Whether you are recently retired or studying at university, EdConnect Australia offers training and support to its volunteers. Potential volunteers can apply online. ■ www.edconnectaustralia.org.au/ volunteer/ or 1800 668 550

AL-ANON meets AL-ANON provides support for families and loved ones living with alcoholics and problem drinkers. The group meets Mondays at St Thomas Anglican Church foyer, 117 Synnot Street, Werribee, from 7.30pm, and on Tuesdays at the St Mary’s Tennis Club rooms, 204 Grimshaw Street, Greensborough.

Diabetes support group The Westgate diabetes support group meets on the first Tuesday of every month at the Altona Bowling Club at 10am. ■ Elaine, 0415 030 996

Dylan Alcott was the star of the show at the Hume Tennis and Community Centre last week. (Damjan Janevski) 264602_01

Working Women

Musicians welcome

Are you a woman aged 50+ in Wyndham and looking for work? Wyndham Jobs Victoria advocates are inviting you to hear from the Council of the Aged Victoria team about the Women Working Together program, which is designed to support women aged 50+ in their training and employment pathway. As part of a Wyndham council initiative, the free online session will be held from 11am – noon on Tuesday, January 25. After the session you can book an appointment with a Wyndham job advocate for additional personalised advice and referral to help with your job search. ■ https://events.humanitix.com/working-inwyndham-series-suitable-for-women-aged50plus

Do you play trumpet, flute or lower brass instruments? The Hobsons Bay City Band is seeking musicians to join its community band. Rehearsals are held Mondays from 7.30pm at the Newport Lakes Primary School, Elizabeth Street, Newport. Visitors and interested musicians any age most welcome. ■ Roger Lewis, hbcityband@gmail.com, or www.hbcb.org.au

Tutoring program Youth Services and Equal Ed are providing free online tutoring classes for young people aged 12 to 18 years old. The Academic Homework Support Program will run online on Wednesdays 4-5pm, from the second week of each school term in 2022. All sessions are supervised by Wyndham council Youth Services staff. ■ https://youthwyndham.com/pgm-reg or Danielle Diez, 8375 2346 18 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 19 January, 2022

suburbs with guide John. Walks start at 9.20am each Tuesday outside the Visitor Information Centre in Nelson Place. ■ John, 0418 377 336

Zonta club meets Family fun day The Altona North Bowls Club will be holding a family fun day on January 26. From noon, there will be live music, activities for children, sausage sizzle, refreshments and barefoot bowls. Gold coin donation for entry.

Rotary club Rotary Club of Point Gellibrand meets at Customs House Hotel, 161 Nelson Place, Williamstown, on the first and third Tuesday of the month from 6pm for a 6.30pm dinner meeting. Visitors welcome. ■ Pam, 0418 347 691 or rotarypointgellibrand@gmail.com

Combined Probus The Altona North Combined Probus club meets on the fourth Wednesday of each month at Altona Sports Club. Includes a speaker, organised trips and outings, and a friendly atmosphere. ■ Lesley, 0414 481 442

Singing group Mouth organ band The Yarraville Mouth Organ Band meets Friday evenings at 203 Williamstown Road, Yarraville. Great music, friendly atmosphere. New members, players or beginners welcome. ■ Heather, 9399 2190

Heritage walks Enjoy a leisurely two-hour walk around historic Williamstown and nearby

sharing tips, learning skills and catching up over a cuppa. ■ 9747 8576

Join the Melton South Community Singers at the Melton South Community Centre on the first and third Tuesday of each month. ■ Sue, 0400 082 413

Melton South Knit & Natter All welcome to join this social crafting group, running at the Melton South Community Centre each Monday from 10am-noon. Bring along any knitting or crochet projects and work on them while

The Zonta Club of Melton meets on the first Monday of each month at Melton Country Club, Reserve Road, Melton. ■ Suzanne, 0417 512 420

Mahjong group Interested in learning to play Mahjong? U3A Melton has a group who play on Tuesdays at 10am. ■ u3amelton.com or 0419 563 016

Melton Men’s Probus Club The Melton Men’s Probus Club meets on the first Tuesday of each month at the Melton Dart Club, 63a Reserve Road, from 9.45am. New members and visitors are most welcome. ■ 9746 0271

Rose Carers Of Maddingley Park Meets Wednesdays from 10am-noon at Maddingley Park, corner of Grant and Taverner streets, Bacchus Marsh, to maintain two beautiful rose gardens. New volunteers are always welcome – with or without experience. ■ Elaine Greenhall, 0418 171 119 or 0400 052 857

PUZZLES No. 064

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

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

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

4 8 5

medium

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

QUICK CROSSWORD

Appear sporadically (4,3,2) Not edited (5) Healed (5) Keepsake (7) Most pleasant (6) Messages sent on holiday (9) Bit by bit (9) Appraised (8) Reprieve (7) Unauthorised disclosure (7) Support (4,2) From Dublin (5) Estimate (5)

4 5 6 7 8 14

ACROSS Swiss currency (5) Clergyman (9) Breastbone (7) Made of fine clay (7) African country (7) News (7) Made dapper (7,2) Not bad (4) Admirers (4) Things that hinder (9) Jogging (7) Bravery (7) Hobby (7) Puts more bullets in (7) Mental disorder (9) Give way; surrender (5)

1 4 9 10 11 12 13 15 17 19 22 25 26 27 28 29

No. 064

15 16 18 20 21 23 24

DOWN Place protected by natural features (8) Vindicator (7) Binding agreements (9)

1 2 3

DECODER

No. 064

hard

2 2 6

8 9 9

10 11 12 13

G O 19

ACTOR ADAPT AGILE ALOOF ANGER APRIL ARENA ARISE AWAIT BASES CEASE DRAMA DREAD EASED EERIE ENDER ENDOW ENEMA GLOAT GRADE GRASS

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

Today’s Aim: 9 words: Good 13 words: Very good

7 3 5 9 8 1 6 4 2

8 5 7 1 2 9 6 3 4

2 1 4 6 8 3 5 9 7

6 3 9 4 5 7 2 1 8

9 6 3 2 4 1 8 7 5

4 LETTERS AWES BEAN COAT ERAS GEAR HAUL LYRE OKED PEAT POST SAGE SAKI TAGS TIDY

Insert the missing letters to make 10 words – five reading across the grid and five reading down. NOTE: more than one solution may be possible

N T E R E

O O S

1 3 9 7 2 6 8 5 4

5 9 6 3 7 2 4 8 1

4 7 2 8 1 6 3 5 9

3 8 1 5 9 4 7 6 2

8 5 6 4 9 1 2 7 3

3 2 1 8 6 4 7 9 5

5 6 8 9 1 7 3 4 2

No. 064

A B I D E M O D E S P R I N T

1 2 5 7 6 8 9 4 3

HOOFS LEAST LOCAL MANIA MEALY MERGE MYTHS NAEVE ODDLY OUNCE OUTDO PIANO PRESS PSALM ROUGH SAFES SATAN SAUTE SCALE SEDAN SEMEN

SENDS SHAFT STARS STUCK TOOTH ULTRA WEEPS

7 LETTERS INSPECT MAGENTA OATMEAL RAPTURE ROLLING SEASICK

6 LETTERS ORGASM SLOGAN THROAT TREATS

8 LETTERS CARDIGAN EMPHATIC FIREARMS SEMESTER

21-01-22

QUICK QUIZ

Jack in the Pulpit, Devils and Angels and Cuckoo-Pint are all common names for what?

Of what is the Big Mac Index an informal measure?

What seafood sauce, named after an expensive cognac, was created in the 1980s in Hong Kong?

Frank was the 2003 debut album of which English singer?

What was the first commercially successful video game?

Which former Australian cricketer played Ivan Milat in the 2003 film Fat Pizza?

What narrow strait connects the Black Sea with the Sea of Marmara?

Who created the sculpture Puppy (pictured), which was installed outside the Guggenheim Museum in Spain?

The talented Madame de Pompadour was the mistress of which French king?

No. 064

acid, acing, ADVANCING, again, aida, angina, avian, avid, caning, canna, caving, dancing, diva, divan, gain, naiad, vain, viand

7 4 8 9 3 5 1 2 6

2 7 4 3 8 5 9 6 1

5 LETTERS ABOUT

9-LETTER WORD

18 words: Excellent

6 9 2 3 5 4 7 8 1

8 1 4 6 2 7 3 9 5

1 4 8 2 3 6 5 7 9

9 5 6 4 7 8 2 1 3

3 2 7 1 9 5 8 6 4

2 6 9 7 1 3 4 5 8

5 7 1 8 4 2 9 3 6

4 8 3 5 6 9 1 2 7

4 9 7 5 3 2 6 1 8

6 8 3 1 5 9 4 2 7

9 4 5 2 7 8 1 3 6

7 1 2 6 4 3 5 8 9

Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

medium

easy

hard

3 9

3 LETTERS AGO AND BOA CIA ERR EWE FOG GAG GEE GIN GOP ITS LAY LEV LIE NOD OAR ODE OIL OLD OWL ROD RUE SAD

E A Z R K I MC J B F V D

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

5x5

7 2

5 7 1 3

S Q T HN Y L UWP X GO

6 7 8 4

WORDFIT

10 What five events are included in an outdoor Pentathlon? ANSWERS: 1. Arum maculatum, a common European plant species 2. Purchasing power parity (PPP) between two currencies 3. Amy Winehouse 4. Merv Hughes 5. Jeff Koons 6. Louis XV 7. XO sauce 8. Pong 9. The Bosporus 10. Long jump, javelin, 200 metres, discus, 1500 metres

SUDOKU

Wednesday, 19 January, 2022 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY 19

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services s of specialised property Very diverse in all aspect ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀

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Fletcher’s Carpet Steam Cleaning

3 Standard Rooms for $99 inc GST We also clean: Upholstery and Tile and Grout

Aggregate Coloured concrete Plain concrete Wash/seal old

drive ways Bobcat and dingo hire

P & A GATT P/L EXPERT CONCRETE WORK � Exposed aggregate, slate, stencil, colour & plain concrete � Exposed aggregate pressure washing, concrete cutting & re-sealing

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816 479

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8348 5441

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12402755-RA44-18

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12427253-FA39-19

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9309 0700 - 0411 174 000 MEMBER OF MASTER BUILDERS ASSOCIATION

STONE BENCHTOPS Overlay Over Your Existing Benchtops With Stone. Change The Look Of Your Kitchen In A Day! Call for a free quote 0425 825 504 www.dsstonebenchtops.com.au

Reg No 8659

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GET IN QUICK BRAYBROOK 30 Howden Cres, Saturday 22nd January, 7am-2pm, rain or shine. Household furniture, planters, shed tools and equipment.

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24/7 SERVICE Lic. No. 28635

3. The proposed infrastructure will comply with the ACMA EME regulatory arrangements. An EME Report and further information can be obtained from www.rfnsa.com.au site number 3029046. 4. In accordance with Section 6 of 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: Kasia Kucypera - CPS Technology & Infrastructure, (02) 9300 1700, submissionsNSW@cpstech.com.au by 5pm on Thursday 10 February 2022. 12531676-NG03-22

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Swa13128xbe

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1. Optus and Vodafone propose to install a new telecommunications facility at 477 Dohertys Road, Truganina VIC 3029. The proposal includes the installation of six (6) 4G and ﬁfteen (15) 5G panel antennas mounted on the existing headframe atop the existing 30m monopole, the installation of one (1) 6-bay outdoor equipment cabinet (OTC), and the installation of ancillary equipment, such as radio remote units, cable trays and cable ladders, cabling, electrical, to ensure the proper functioning of the of the facility.

Driver/Labourer Full time position available for a hardworking, reliable person. Job involves setup of marquees, loading trucks, deliveries and working with small machinery. Driver's licence and good customer service skills required. Truck and forklift licences would be an advantage. Contact: TRACY KYNETON HIRE 5422 2311

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Lic 35031

Ph: 9360 0466

$100/ 30mins

48 Davies Avenue, Sunshine North 9364 0770 SWA6566B

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12474997-DL50-20

12417998-SN21-19

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SUNBURY Agricultural Society 2022 Annual General Meeting. The 2022 Annual General Meeting of the Sunbury Agricultural Society will be held on Wednesday, 2nd February, at 8.00 pm at the Sunbury Football Social Club, Riddell Road, Sunbury. New members for our Committee are always more than welcome. If you would be interested in joining our group and assisting with the organisation of the annual Sunbury Show which is held in October each year, or would just like to attend our AGM. Enquires to Anne phone 0412 002 266 sunburyshow.org.au

MAIDSTONE. 3 bedroom house close to transport and Highpoint Shopping Centre. $395.00 per week plus bond. Available now. Phone: 0401 295 631.

12400545-LB38-19

12367852-ACM41-17

For free quote call Mob: 0423 595 388 Email: sales@lnkitchens.com.au Showroom: 24 Berkshire Rd, North Sunshine

12362716-ACM35-17

Specialise in: - Kitchens, vanities, laundries, wardrobes, storages Glass: Splashback, shower screen, mirrors, glass.

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��

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Motoring V Wanted To Buy CARS wanted. Cash Paid. Buying all years and models. Call 0455 776 443 Lmct 11618

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Wednesday, 19 January, 2022 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY 21

MOTOR STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

MX-30 Electric . . . too much money for too little range?

Mazda charges up for the future By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring We were supposed to get the Mazda MX-30 Electric a few weeks ago, but someone forgot to charge it. The plan was to drive from Sydney’s Alexandria to Cameron Park near Newcastle, a distance of about 160km. The MX-30 has a claimed fully-charged range of 224km, so it was eminently doable – or so we thought. Just in case, we had identified the location of some fast, commercial DC chargers along the route. Priced from $65,490, Mazda MX-30 Electric is the latest in a growing selection of electric vehicles (EVs) now available in Australia – and Mazda’s first fully-fledged electric offering. Mazda also offers a petrol-electric hybrid version of the car and apart from a small badge, they could be twins. The $33,990-plus MX-30 M Hybrid is powered by a 2.0-litre petrol engine, together with a 24-volt battery with integrated starter generator. It’s good for 6.4 litres per 100 kilometres and a theoretical range of 797km. Both versions feature an almost identical list of inclusions, with single zone climate air, combo cloth and artificial leather upholstery, 10-way power adjust driver’s seat with memory, heated front seats and a heated steering wheel. The list also includes 18-inch alloys, head-up window display, adaptive cruise control, auto high beam, 360-degree monitor, front and rear parking sensors, powered glass sunroof, plus 12-speaker Bose audio with satellite navigation, DAB+ digital radio, plus Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Key safety features include 10 airbags, Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) with pedestrian and cyclist detection, Smart Brake Support including Turn Across Traffic function and Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Stop & Go function. What you don’t get is a power tailgate or wireless phone charging, nor is there a spare tyre – just a puncture kit. Service intervals are 12 months or 15,000km and it comes with a 5-year unlimited kilometre warranty along with 5-year roadside assistance. The battery is covered by an 8-year/160,000km warranty. Finance with guaranteed buyback is offered and you can pay for servicing in advance which is $1273 for five years. The drivetrain generates 107kW of power and 271Nm of torque, with drive to the front wheels via a single-speed reduction gear style transmission. It has a smallish 35.5kWh battery and consumes 18.5kWh/100km which in part explains the car’s meagre range, although Mazda describes 224km as the “perfect” figure for urban commutes over the course of a typical week. It is however quick to point out that range figures are for comparison purposes and may 22 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 19 January, 2022

not always reflect real life driving results. Factors include the starting charge of the battery, accessories fitted (post registration), variations in weather, driving styles, vehicle load and use of features such as air conditioning or heated seats. Because the electric motor makes little or no noise, the audio system generates a comforting, turbine-like sound that rises and falls with the accelerator. Unlike earlier EVs, the charge port is located at the rear like petrol models and supports both Type 2 AC and Combo 2 DC charging connections. It’s supplied with a portable charger that can be plugged into a standard 240V, 10A household outlet and takes about 9 hours to deliver 20-80 per cent charge (as in not fully charged). Stepping up to a 6.6kWh AC wallbox or public charger, the same 20-80 per cent takes about three hours. With a commercial 50kWh DC charger, the time reduces to as little as 36 minutes. The thing is that continual use of fast chargers is likely to reduce the operational life of the batteries. So, Catch-22. DAY 1: At pick up the car showed 98 per cent charge and a maximum range of 183km, nowhere near the promised 224km -- and perilously close to the 160km planned. I might add, the trip back from Cameron Park to the Blue Mountains is 190km and could have been a major drama. In hindsight, we were lucky the booking fell through. By the time we got our electric wunderkind home, we had travelled 85.5km. The battery had 52 per cent remaining and a range of 96km. It had been a long day so we decided to put off charging until the following evening. The small boot by the way accommodates a large suitcase, but little else. We were forced to put the rest of our luggage on the back seat. That’s when we discovered the Freestyle or “suicide” doors, resurrected from the RX-8 sports car. FYI. Guys, they didn’t work then – and, guess what? – they still don’t. Rear legroom is extremely limited and once you’re in the closeted back, the doors cannot be

opened until the front doors have first been opened. In other words, you’re stuck. So don’t expect your next Uber to turn up in an MX-30 – hybrid or electric. DAY 2: By the end of the second day the MX-30 had travelled a total of 115km. The battery was sitting on 32 per cent and range showed just 57km. My wife who had been driving the car reported trouble starting, not once -- but about one in every three starts. She also had trouble getting it into reverse at one point. Connected the car to the charger in the evening in readiness for the next three days of travel to and from work. It’s a round trip of about 40-45km – exactly what the MX-30 is designed to do, we’re told. DAY 3: All charged up and nowhere to go. Alas, my wife called in sick and the MX-30 spent the day sitting there. If we had to go out, we took our own car because the Mazda was parked in. To explain, charging an electric car, at our place at least, involves moving cars around, so the EV has access to the garage and a power point. An extension lead will not work -believe me, I’ve tried. Because charge cables are only three or four metres long, you often need to reverse in too. It’s ironic because EVs are touted as the perfect choice for city dwellers, most of whom don’t have access to off-street parking. The whole charging scenario turns the purchase of an EV into something of a lifestyle choice. You spend your time worrying about how much charge the car has left and when and where you’ll have the opportunity to charge it again. DAY 4: Back to work. The MX clocked up another 41km, bringing the accumulated distance travelled to 156km. After a couple of days charging, it started the day with a full charge and a range of 181km (still no sign of the promised 224km). By the end of the day, we had 150km and 80 per cent left.

My wife likes the fact the head-up window display shows school zones as well as the speed limit. I’d like it too - if it was visible to my polarised sunglasses. DAY 5: Travelled 41km. The car showed 106km to go with the battery at 56 per cent, and an accumulated distance of 197km. I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention the funky cork finish of the centre console. While it might be eco-friendly, in an Ikea sort of way, I have some concerns about how well it will wear over time? I can imagine kids and/or pets picking at it which would be the beginning of the end once its integrity is compromised. DAY 6: Just 12km to the shops and back. A range of 94km left and 51 per cent battery remaining. Accumulated distance 209km. DAY 7: Busy day. A total of 82km travelled and it was touch and go in the end. In the evening, we had a family dinner planned and in hindsight the car really should have been charged, but sometimes one needs to push the envelope. Travelling there was no problem. In fact, we actually picked up a couple of kilometres on the downhill run thanks to regenerative braking. But by the time we got home, it had just 12km and 8 per cent charge left. DAY 8: Fully charged, the MX-30 is ready to go back to Mazda. Batteries add a substantial amount of weight to the car. But they are mounted low in the chassis which means a low centre of gravity and improved handling. The Hybrid G20e Evolve that we drove before the full EV weighs 1481kg. In comparison, MX-30 Electric tips the scales at 1654kg -- a whopping 173kg more. Handing back the keys, we had travelled 398.6km and had charged the car twice over the week. In comparison, the hybrid was using 7.2L/100km after a little over 400km – and we didn’t have to fill it once. SUMMARY In the year just gone, it seemed like everyone wanted to know if the time was right to buy an electric car. The interest is there, but the confidence is not – at least not yet. There are two major factors to consider when buying an EV: price and range. Range first and foremost, because that’s the thing people worry about most. And price, because the more you’re prepared to pay, the further an EV will go – Tesla is a good example. The Mazda MX-30 E35 Astina pure electric is close to $70K by the time you put it on the road. That’s a lot of folding money for a car that can’t get from Sydney to Newcastle on a single charge, don’t you think?

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

SPORT

COVID-19 stops United in its tracks Western United’s motto of being prepared to adapt has been tested in a big way the past month. After flying in the first part of the A-League season, United’s last three games have been postponed following a number of COVID-19 cases at the club. United’s football general manager Mal Impiombato said a large majority of the club, both players and staff, have had to isolate as either a positive case or household contact. “First and foremost we’ve looked after the player, football is second,” he said. “We’ve had things in place since the pre-season and we knew at some point they were likely to kick into play. “We expected to have players missing from time to time. The majority of the group has had it or been a household contact. “Everyone has been affected in some way.” Impiombato said at one point training came to a complete halt for three days as they tried to

mitigate the spread. He said once someone was in isolation, it was then about working out what was best for them. “The most important thing is to look after the players,” he said. “The doctor gave them support and they were given anything they needed to get through that period. “Once they have limited symptoms for two or three days, we would work with them on an individual program so they have the ability to remain in reasonable fitness. “Everything depends on the player.” United is not alone in the A-League, with a number of matches across the competition postponed due to cases. Other major sporting competitions, including the BBL, NBL AND WNBL have all postponed games too. Impiombato said with all clubs being impacted in some way, ladder positions and finals could be determined on which team

handles the situation better. “Every club is impacted, we are not different,” he said. “We will not use it as an excuse. It’s not ideal and something we will have to continue to manage throughout the season. “Hopefully we will be back for our next game against Newcastle Jets on January 19.” Impiombato said having got early points on the board had proved vital with the uncertainty occurring in the league. Heading in the weekend’s matches, United was third on the ladder. Both United’s losses have come against Melbourne Victory. “Points on the board early is good as we don’t know what will be thrown at us this year. “There’s scope to move and our big motto is be prepared to adapt. The team that does that the best could find themselves on top.” Impiombato said a big group of players had returned to training in recent days and were

Western United has been hit hard by COVID-19. (Supplied)

preparing themselves for this week’s match. They will face a heavy schedule in the coming weeks as they look to make up the three matches that were postponed. “There will be some mid-week games and we will work with the APL [Australian Professional Leagues] and see what it looks like. “The overseas transfer window is open soon and we’ll see what opportunities there are to bolster are squad and add numbers.” Tara Murray

American import signs for Wyndham

(Supplied/Werribee Football Club)

Werribee talent boost By Alesha Capone Three former AFL players have signed on with Werribee Football Club. Charlie Ham, Ollie Hanrahan and Kye Declase commenced training last week. Hanrahan played 29 games across his five seasons with Hawthorn, while Ham began last year with the Geelong Falcons before joining North Melbourne in the mid-season draft. A familiar face to fans, Declase is returning for his fifth season at Werribee, after being picked by Melbourne in the mid-season draft. Hanrahan, who scored 18 goals during his time at the Hawks, is set to join Werribee’s midfield. The 23-year-old said taking to Werribee head coach Mick Barlow had convinced him to head west for the 2022 season. Hanrahan said his first week of training at Werribee has been different to five years at Hawthorn. “In a purely AFL environment, it’s different to the VFL environment in terms of culture,” he said. “(At the VFL) it’s a lot more laidback and

you can learn to have fun again and love the game again. “However, it’s the same in terms of wanting to get better, improve and win the premiership.” Hanrahan described Werribee as “a very good club”. “It’s known as being very tough, and tough in attacking,” he said. “When I have played them before they have been hard to beat, I am glad to be on the other side of that now,” Hanrahan said he and his Werribee team members were “very determined” to win the premiership in 2022. “Hopefully to try to get the premiership would be very nice, trying to improve my game as much as I can, teach the other players some of the things I learned in Hawthorn and helping out some of the younger players too,” he said. Declase, who first joined Werribee in 2018, said training at an AFL level last year “has put me in good stead to play good VFL footy and perform at my best”. Declase said although a few clubs tried to

poach him for 2022, “it was pretty clear-cut to me that I’d be going back to Werribee to play there, because it’s a great club”. “I love playing with my mates,” he said. Declase said that every year in the VFL, there were teams who made the finals but never quite made it to ultimate victory. “Werribee is that club, obviously we want to win some silverware (this season),” he said. Aside from winning a premiership with Werribee this season, Declase said he would be trying to get back onto the AFL list in the mid-year draft. In addition to the three-times weekly training sessions at Werribee, he has been getting up at 5am to go swimming and complete extra sessions before work, so that he will be ready if he does get a call from the AFL. Ham, who played in a round 11 matchup against Werribee in 2021, said he hoped to have a big impact in his first full VFL season. “I’m excited for next year and just want to continue to use my strengths which is my running and kicking, and see where things can go from there,” he said.

Werribee Football Club Monday 28th February 2022 6.00pm at Werribee Football Club AGENDA 1. Confirmation of 2020 AGM minutes 2. Financial statements for year ended October 31, 2021 3. Presentation of 2021 Annual Report 4. Election of Directors 5. General business *All nominations shall be in writing; signed by the candidate; signed by two club members (full member, life member); and delivered to the CEO by no later than Monday, 14th February 2022. Nomination forms are available by contacting the WFC office on (03) 9741 6688. Proxy voting is also available by sending a written nomination to the club by no later than Monday, 21st February 2022.

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

12531493-BL03-22

Ollie Hanrahan.

Wyndham Basketball Association (WBA) has announced the signing of American player Gianna “GiGi” Smith for the 2022 season. Smith will join the association’s championship women’s team after she arrives in Australia next month. A native of Virginia, Smith competed in the Colonial Athletic Association (CAA) with the University of North Carolina–Wilmington. A third-team All-Colonial Athletic Association selection who started 25 out of 30 games, she led her team with 14.3 points per game and 5.5 rebounds per game. Smith said she was “pumped” to join the WBA. “Talking to the head coach made me feel comfortable, made me feel like family, made me feel like it was home I’m so excited to be around everyone, I can’t wait to get there,” she said. In addition to playing for the WBA, Smith will act as a coach during the association basketball’s programs and camps during this year. Last month, the WBA announced its men’s championship program has signed New Yorker Kavione Green, from Bloomfield University, as its first import for the 2022 season.

Wednesday, 19 January, 2022 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY 23

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