Star Weekly - Hobsons Bay Maribyrnong - 23rd November 2022

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Festive gifts

Gifts of any size or price will be accepted as part of the initiative.

Yarraville residents are encouraged to dig deep for disadvantaged children across the western suburbs this festive season. The Yarraville Traders Association is once again teaming up with the Les Twentyman Foundation to provide gifts to disadvantaged children as part of its giving tree initiative. Association president Chris Byrne said visitors or residents can donate to the initiative at the Yarraville Grill’d restaurant from Thursday, December 1. “A small gift can make Christmas a little bit better for kids in the community,“ he said. Mr Byrne said donations should be left unwrapped to reduce processing time. “It’s really a community initiative,” he said. “A lot of the traders will be donating gift vouchers.” Yarraville Village will also have a number of special visitors ahead of Christmas Day, including Santa Claus on Saturday, December 10 and Saturday, December 17 from 3pm to 4pm, the Pitchface choir on Saturday, December 17 from 4pm to 5pm and a skating elf and The Grinch on Friday, December 23 from 5pm to 6pm.

(Picture: Damjan Janevski) 308513_05

Division over sports plan By Matthew Sims Friends of McIvor Reserve spokesperson Miles Gilbert has expressed the Yarraville group’s disappointment in Maribyrnong council’s approval of a draft master plan for the reserve, which includes a new six-court indoor sports centre. The decision followed months of public consultation during which a number of community members expressed their opposition to the stadium due to its impact on green space and the existing dog park facilities. During its meeting on Tuesday, November 15, council passed a motion to note the significant community interest in the master plan for the Yarraville reserve, approve the release of the draft master plan for community comment and

request a further report on the final McIvor Reserve Master Plan in March 2023. A new six-court indoor sports centre and recreation and leisure facilities were among 31 proposed projects outlined in the approved McIvor Reserve Draft Master Plan. According to council’s 2018 Indoor Stadium Strategy, up to a dozen new indoor sports courts need to be built to meet growing demand across the municipality. Mr Gilbert said the approval of the draft plan was an “unfortunate and frustrating outcome” for parkland at the reserve. “It’s disappointing that the majority of our councillors who were present believe a plan that has caused such division in the community is worthy of delivering to the public for further consultation,” he said.

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“From the first round of public consultation, we have been concerned about the sincerity of the council’s engagement process with the community. “Going forward, we will look at alternative options and compromises that better fulfil the needs of all users at the park and we plan to contribute to the ongoing consultation with council.” Councillor Michael Clarke said the draft master plan and its recommended projects aimed to encourage more physical activity and social linkages, especially within the younger population. “Whether it’s part of an indoor game... or outdoor, we need more opportunity for community interaction,” he said. Cr Simon Crawford opposed the motion,

citing a preference to address the Indoor Sports Stadium Strategy before looking at the McIvor Reserve Master Plan. “I think we’re sort of putting the cart before the horse a little bit here,” he said. Maribyrnong mayor Sarah Carter said she would dispute Cr Crawford’s stance on the issue. “We have followed due process,” she said. Maribyrnong council is hosting five community engagement sessions at the McIvor Reserve hockey pavilion on Thursday, December 1 (5pm to 6pm and 6.15pm to 7.15pm) and Saturday, December 3 (10am to 11am, 11.15am to 12.15pm and 12.30pm to 1.30pm). Details: www.yourcityyourvoice.com.au/ mcivor

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Metro to the rescue

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A much-loved Yarravi has been rescued lle cat, Mooncake, by after wandering from Metro train workers his Mooncake was spotted home. injured near Seddon train station . A driver alerted authori sed officers who found Moonc ake and drove him to U-Vet Werribee Animal Hospital where he underwent emerge fractured skull and ncy surgery for a jaw. Mooncake lost an eye, but his owner says he is recovering and adapting well. Lesley Friend said thank Metro’s train she wanted to driver and authori sed officers for saving Moonc “We’re very thankfu ake. Mooncake back and l that we got that he’s alive and that he [the train driver] basically saved his life,” she said. “He’s a big part of our Metro’s Wayne Boyd family.” said the safety all public transpo rt users, including of cats, was a priority. “We saw that little immediate help and Mooncake needed didn’t waste any time,” he said. “I was really pleased when I heard that Mooncake had pulled through.”

(Joe Mastroianni)

New million doll ar suburbs

Goya Dmytryshchak

By Goya Dmytryshch ak

marking the highest growth rate since Altona and West 2010. July director Wayne Footscray have joined Sweeney said “it million dollar club, the “The value was due to $1.516 happen”. with the median million ($266,000 price cracking $1 million house hit a record of the national dwelling market “We’re talking inner high in January Mr Sweeney said over reserve). 2021, and The May median house. city, Altona by the continued to hit Altona and West bay value a fresh record high has and the generous allotments for Altona $1,022,585 (up from in Altona,” he said. Footscray’s proximity to the city each $983,599 12 months was month since. “West Footscray is were big drawcards. and $1,018,794 (up a different suburb ago) “The wealth effect Footscray central from $919,227) for of house value increas Topping the list in , where you’re gettingfrom Footscray, CoreLo West has likely Melbourne were Brighto es gic’s Million Dollar bigger been the with a May blocks as well. a key component n Markets consum report for June shows. median house value of elevated er confidence, “A of $3,316,986 lot of (up the prices from and Austra these days, unless “The current upswin economic recovery there’s $3,168,364 $2,785,108) and Deepdene at g in the Austra from strict social distanclia’s something substantial on it, housing market (up lian restrictions from it’s $3,804, all about the ing land. 921). through 2020.” Among newcomers extraordinary results, has produced some Altona and West ” the report states. “It’s all about the land were Mount Macedo to the millionaire’s club Footscray made the “In the 12 months value.” 40 million-dollar n at $1,319,881 (up Sweeney’s recent markets in metrop top $961,49 from 5), dwelling market values to May 2021, national Melbourne. sales Blairgo include 1/13 Essex wrie at $1,318,730 olitan Street, West increased 10.6 per (up from $915,370), Footscr cent, Sweeney Estate auction for $1,130, ay, which sold before $872,743), Somers at $1,270,800 (up from Agents William 000 and 206 Blyth St stown Altona, which Street, from $867,95 Andrews Beach at $1,185,135 (up this month sold at 2 and Balnarring at auction for from $1,172,911 (up $880,200).

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Altona Altona Sports Club 11 Altona Road Altona Altona RSL 31 Sargood Street Altona Kooringal Golf Club Wilga Avenue Altona Convenience store 41 Civic Parade Altona City of Hobsons Bay 115 Civic Parade Altona Chemcare Wellness Pharmacy 8 Harrington Square Altona Altona West Newsagency 12 Harrington Square Altona Borgs Cakes 20 Harrington Square Altona Sweeney Real Estate 54 Pier Street Altona Bendigo Bank 64 Pier Street Altona Altona IGA plus Liquor 103/110 Pier Street Altona Altona Newsagency 84-86 Pier Street Altona Chemist Discount Centre 88-90 Pier Street Altona Meadows Sweeney Real Estate - Altona Meadows Shop 10a, 1-23 Central Avenue (Cental Square Shopping Centre) Altona Meadows Central Lotto Shop 14, 1-23 Central Avenue (Cental Square Shopping Centre) Altona Meadows Altona Meadows Library and Learning Centre 2 Newham Way (Central square Shopping Centre) Altona North Sweeney Real Estate - Altona North 15 Borrack Square Altona North Westgate Health and Fitness Club Corner Grieve Parade & Dohertys Road Altona North Altona Fresh 62-76 Second Ave 9399 1390 Altona North Borrack Square Lotto & Gifts 32 Borrack Square Altona North The Circle Pharmacy 53 The Circle Altona North Hunter French Real Estate 21 Borrack Square Altona North Altona North Community Library Corner Millers Road & McArthurs Road Altona North Altona Gate Shopping Centre Lvl.2/ 124-134 Millers Road Altona North Altona East Newsagency 63 The Circle Braybrook Central West Plaza 65-67 Ashley Street Braybrook Braybrook Hotel 353 Ballarat Road Braybrook Braybrook Library 107-139 Churchill Avenue Deer Park Deer Park Newsagency 823 Ballarat Road Footscray Trimson & Partner Real Estate 169 Barkly Street

• Footscray French Baguette Cafe 181 Barkly Street • Footscray Whitten Oval 417 Barkly Street • Footscray Footscray Community Arts Centre 45 Moreland Street • Footscray James Barker House Aged Care 64 Buckley Street • Footscray Pheonix Youth Centre 72 Barkly Street • Footscray Burnham Real Estate - Footscray 273 Barkly Street • Footscray Jim Wong’s Restaurant 259-261 Barkly Street • Footscray Greg hocking Real Estate 145-147 Geelong Road • Footscray Footscray Hospital 160 Gordon Street • Footscray Caltex Petrol Station 62-68 Gordon Street • Footscray Foosctray Police Station 66 Hyde Street • Footscray Maribyrnong City Council 61 Napier Street (Cnr Napier & Hyde Streets) • Footscray Tatts Lotto 81 Nicholson Street • Footscray Wards Newsagency 100 Nicholson Street • Footscray Footscray Library 56 Paisley Street • Footscray Paisley Clinic Pharmacy 85 Paisley Street • Footscray Coles Footscray Albert Street (Footscray Plaza Shopping Centre) • Footscray West IGA West Footscray 511 Barkly Street • Footscray West Neighbourhood House Level 1,539 Barkly Street • Footscray West Compton Green Real Estate 1/240 Geelong Road • Footscray West Kingsville Newsagency 339 Somerville Road • Kingsville BP Petrol 88 Williamstown Road • Laverton Laverton Newsagency Shop 12-14 Aviation Road • Laverton Bendigo Bank Shop 3/28 Aviation Road • Laverton Laverton Community Hub 95-105 Railway Street • Maidstone MJs Café Unit 9/72 Hampstead Road • Maidstone Fix at Mick’s Motors Petrol Station 95 Rosamond Road • Maidstone Maidstone Milk Bar 154 Ballarat Road • Maribyrnong Maribyrnong Aquatic Centre 1 Aquatic Drive • Maribyrnong Maribyrnong Community Centre 9 Randall Street • Maribyrnong Supanews Lotto Shop 2138/120-200 Rosamond Road (Highpoint Shopping Centre) • Maribyrnong Gloria Jeans - Maribyrnong Shop 3/120-200 Rosamond Road (Highpoint Shopping Centre) • Maribyrnong Plush Think Sofas Shop 3 / 179 Rosamond Road, Highpoint Home Maker Centre • Maribyrnong Forty Winks Shop 4 / 179 Rosamond Road, Highpoint Home Maker Centre • Maribyrnong Focus On Furniture Shop 5 / 179

Rosamond Road, Highpoint Home Maker Centre • Maribyrnong Adriatic Furniture Shop 6 / 179 Rosamond Road, Highpoint Home Maker Centre • Maribyrnong Snooze Shop 7 / 179 Rosamond Road, Highpoint Home Maker Centre • Maribyrnong Suave Furniture Shop 8/179 Rosamond Road, Highpoint Home Maker Centre • Maribyrnong Spotlight Shop 9-10 / 179 Rosamond Road, Highpoint Home Maker Centre • Maribyrnong Alex’s Furniture Shop 11 / 179 Rosamond Road, Highpoint Home Maker Centre • Maribyrnong Koala Living Shop 12 / 179 Rosamond Road, Highpoint Home Maker Centre • Maribyrnong Bev Marks Shop 13 / 179 Rosamond Road, Highpoint Home Maker Centre • Maribyrnong Bedshed Shop 14 / 179 Rosamond Road, Highpoint Home Maker Centre • Maribyrnong James Lane Shop 15 / 179 Rosamond Road, Highpoint Home Maker Centre • Maribyrnong Pet Barn Shop 16A / 179 Rosamond Road, Highpoint Home Maker Centre • Maribyrnong Barbecues Galore Shop 16A/B / 179 Rosamond Road, Highpoint Home Maker Centre • Maribyrnong Beds N Dreams Shop 16A/C / 179 Rosamond Road, Highpoint Home Maker Centre • Maribyrnong Carpet Call Shop 17 / 179 Rosamond Road, Highpoint Home Maker Centre • Newport Newport Newsagency 48 Challis Street • Newport The Substation 1 Market Street • Newport Newport Library 13 Mason Street • Newport Seagulls Nest Club 1 Mason Street • Newport IGA Newport Plus Liquor 2 Mason Street • Newport Cellarbrations 25 Mason Street • Newport Newport Community Centre 43 Mason Street • Newport Newport Newsagency 6 Hall Street • Newport Newport General Store 10 Hall Street • Seddon Ray White 156 Victoria Street • Seddon Seddon Newsagency Mar-00 Charles Street • Seddon ALFA Café 97 Victoria Street • Seddon The Happy Apple Supermarket 176-178 Victoria Street • Seddon The Vin Wine & Spirits 180 Victoria Street • South Kingsville Dukkah Restaurant 23 Vernon Street • Spotswood Spotswood Newsagency 81 Hudsons Road • Spotswood Scouns Pharmacy 17D Vernon Street • Tottenham Milk Bar - Tottenham Sara Grove • Tottenham Tottenham Central LPO and Newsagency 159 Sunshine Road • Williamstown Steam Packet Hotel 13 Cole Street • Williamstown RT Edgar Real Estate 94 Douglas Parade

• Williamstown Newsagency Riffle Range S/Centre Shop 8 , 71 -79 Kororoit Creek Road 9397 1822 • Williamstown Hazeldean Transition Care 211 Osborne Street • Williamstown Williamstown Hospital 77b Railway Crescent • Williamstown South Pacific health club The Strand & North Road • Williamstown Smooth Curves 2A Wellington Parade • Williamstown Coles Supermarket 29 Douglas Parade • Williamstown Williamstown News and Lotto 16 Douglas Parade • Williamstown Sweeney Real Estate Shop 1-3 Douglas Parade • Williamstown Crompton Green Real Estate 29 Ferguson Street • Williamstown Freechoice Williamstown Tobacco 31 Ferguson Street • Williamstown Williams Real Estate 75 Ferguson Street • Williamstown Get the News Unit 8/9 Kororoit Creek Road • Williamstown Porters Williamstown 49 Nelson Place • Williamstown Hobsons Bay Visitors Centre 1 Syme Street • Yarraville Woolworths Yarraville Metro 6 Anderson Street • Yarraville IGA Yarraville 12 Anderson Street • Yarraville Yarraville Newsagency 59 Anderson Street • Yarraville Coracle Cafe Restaurant 63 Anderson Street • Yarraville For The Health Of It Natural Health Products 73 Anderson Street • Yarraville Hocking Stuart Real Estate - Yarraville 33 Ballarat Street • Yarraville Coles Supermarket - Yarraville 1 High Street • YARRAVILLE - Sweeney Yarraville 346 Williamstown Road • Yarraville Antipasti Deli & Cafe Shop 3/1 High Street • Yarraville Rocco’s Delicatessent 122 Roberts Street • Yarraville Yarraville Club 135 Stephens Street • Yarraville Liquor Legends 6 Wembley Avenue • Yarraville Wembley Convenience Store 8 Wembley Avenue

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2 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 23 November, 2022

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Champion Rd consultation call By Matthew Sims Hobsons Bay council has expressed its disappointment with the lack of consultation around the proposed closure of the Champion Road level crossing in Newport. During its meeting on Tuesday, November 15, councillor Matt Tyler moved a motion to write to Transport Infrastructure Minister Jacinta Allan expressing its disappointment about the lack of consultation on the proposed closure of Champion Road, welcome the announcements of other level crossing removals and the proposed redevelopment

of the Spotswood station and seek an urgent meeting with the Level Crossing Removal Authority. As part of an announcement on October 26, Labor pledged to remove the remaining level crossings along the Werribee line, including Champion Road. Under the initial plans, Labor proposed building a grade-separated pedestrian crossing at Champion Road and diverting traffic to a proposed new rail bridge at the Maddox Road level crossing. Cr Tyler said the motion aimed to strike a balance between council’s stance on the

announcements. “I think our community is best served when we are able to engage with our state and federal government counterparts respectfully,“ he said. “It is disappointing … that council wasn’t consulted about the closure of Champion Road,” he said. Cr Tyler said he hoped there would be future conversations between the council and the state government. Cr Jonathon Marsden said it was “imperative” that the council meets with relevant state government representatives

concerning the Champion Road project. Cr Peter Hemphill said he believed closing Champion Road would put “unbelievable pressure” on Maddox Road and Mason Street. “I believe the government could put rail over or rail under at Champion Road, but probably doesn’t want to do it for cost reasons,” he said. Cr Pamela Sutton-Legaud said she supported the motion as it would encourage a more open discussion between the state government and council. “No matter which political party is in power, we need better consultation,” she said.

Labor pledges media support

Somers Parade Kindergarten children Hugo, Edward and Harry, committee president Anna Martin, Early Childhood Management Services area manager Sharon Jordan and staff member Anita May celebrated the Altona childcare centre receiving a $200,000 grant through the Building Blocks grants program. (Damjan Janevski) 308658_02

Building blocks for sensory play The Somers Parade Kindergarten community has celebrated a positive result at the end of a year’s worth of work to secure a $200,000 grant via the state government’s Building Blocks grants program. Early Childhood and Pre-Prep Minister Ingrid Stitt announced the grant recipients last month, with a number of centres across the state sharing in $14.7 million of funding. “We’re committed to delivering never before seen investment in early childhood services across our state, to help our kids and their families access better quality facilities, for the best start to life,“ she said. Somers Parade Kindergarten committee

member Kelly Mevel said the committee and staff members were finalising the designs for new nature-based sensory play facilities, including mud kitchens, harvest tables, native planting and nature pathways. “At the heart of it, we wish to create an inclusive outdoor space that delights the senses and kids can entertain their imagination,“ she said. “It’s like a dream come true. “It cements that we’re here to stay.“ Ms Mevel said the committee would aim to liaise with an Indigenous local to support the finalised designs for the upgrades. Early Childhood Management Services

[ECMS] early childhood education director Rebecca Hand said the grant was a testament to the work of the kindergarten committee over the past 12 months. “We’re delighted Somers Parade Kindergarten has received funding to boost the learning environment for children,“ she said. “It’s a great outcome for families and the community.“ Ms Mevel said next year would be the first time in which the kindergarten would offer two longer days across the four-year old program.

Regional newspapers will be strengthened by one guaranteed full-page of Victorian government advertising should Labor win the state election on November 26. A Labor statement described regional newspapers as the “lifeblood” of country communities, and if re-elected, the party would support outlets with the growing costs of paper and production. Premier Daniel Andrews said whether it’s a bushfire, flooding or a global pandemic, regional newspapers had time and time again stepped up and served their readers “in incredibly important ways”. “Labor is doing what matters – backing regional media outlets with guaranteed advertising revenue so they can keep supporting their local communities,” Mr Andrews said. Labor said the advertising guarantee build on the support the government had delivered for regional media during the pandemic. “Labor understands the importance of backing regional media outlets. That’s why we supported Australian Associated Press with a $2.7 million grant to support print and broadcast journalism in regional Victoria,” Labor said. “Throughout the pandemic, we invested more than $20 million to support regional media outlets through advertising, supporting jobs and protecting local news.” The Liberal Party was contacted for comment.

(iStock)

Matthew Sims

Female sports leaders collaborate to improve inclusion Victoria University [VU] has launched a new project in collaboration with Disability Sport and Recreation, which would involve six female facilitators assisting the development of state sport and active recreation organisations. Over the next nine months, the Community of Practice program would see 54 state sport and active recreation organisations and local governments participate in workshops, online sessions and location visits. The sessions would create new support networks, encourage professional development and allow for learnings gained

from sharing both positive and challenging experiences. VU Susan Alberti Women in Sport chair and project lead Professor Clare Hanlon said they were “incredibly lucky” to have the facilitators on board for the program. “This is a collaborative effort and a unique opportunity for state sport and recreation organisations to learn, reflect, gain confidence, implement, and embed practices based on the strong skill set of these women leaders,” she said. Team members facilitating the program would include Dr Kara Dadswell, Professor

Tracy Taylor, Dr Elliott Flowers (Victoria University) and James Marshall (Disability Sport and Recreation). Project manager and facilitator Elle Steele said it would be a privilege to work alongside the facilitators. “The lived experience, as well as industry knowledge that comes with this particular group is not something I have been part of or seen before, it’s a step in the right direction for true access and inclusion in the sports industry,” she said. Sport and Recreation Victoria policy and strategy manager Amy Moore said the

program would aim to increase collaboration and participation opportunities for people with a disability to take part in sport and active recreation activities. “This Community of Practice supports skill development, leadership and career outcomes for people with a disability and assists the sport and active recreation sector to be more accessible and inclusive,” she said. The program would be part of the state government’s $1.5 million Access for All Abilities program. Matthew Sims

Wednesday, 23 November, 2022 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 3

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Honoured to serve as mayor By Cr Antoinette (Tony) Briffa It’s an incredible honour to be elected mayor in the place you were born and raised and where the community means so much to you. This is my second term as mayor. It comes at a time when there’s so much to look forward to in Hobsons Bay following a couple of years in which we all had to deal with the challenges of a global pandemic. I’m excited about outlining my mayoral agenda over the next few weeks. It’s a chance to shine a light on some of the issues that mean so much to me and where I think we can make a positive difference in the community. As a council, we need to continue supporting our local businesses and community groups, and improving our environment, including our foreshore. The past couple of years have also emphasised the importance of making sure our most vulnerable residents and young families have access to our services. It’s crucial we keep everyone in our community connected. Social justice issues are important to me. As mayor, I’ll continue to advocate for LGBTIQ+, multicultural and multi-faith issues, gender equality and the fight against family violence. I am committed to championing council’s commitment to the prevention of violence against women through our advocacy and awareness raising. On this front, this Friday marks the start of 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based

VACANT BLOCK AND BROAD ACREAGE FIRE HAZARD INSPECTIONS COMMENCING SOON

Do you own a vacant block or broad acreage within Hobsons Bay? In preparedness for the summer season, Council will be undertaking inspections of vacant blocks and broad acreage properties between Monday 21 November and Monday 12 December 2022 to assess if the property is a fire risk/hazard.

The Seaworks Workshops Pier would be re-opened if Labor wins the state election on Saturday, November 26. Williamstown MP Melissa Horne visited the pier on Wednesday, November 16 to announce a $6 million commitment towards repairing the pier. Ms Horne said the investment would return more activity to the precinct. “Supporting the restoration of this Williamstown landmark to a safe, accessible and modern pier will bring benefits for locals, visitors and tourism in the precinct,” she said.

Liberal education promise Hobsons Bay mayor Antoinette (Tony) Briffa. (Supplied)

Violence, which raises awareness about violence against women and its impact on physical, psychological, social wellbeing and economic security. Keep an eye out for further information about this important global campaign. Right now, we’re approaching the conclusion of the Victorian election campaign and we’ve had some strong commitments to our advocacy priorities from the major parties and a range of candidates. Whoever wins this Saturday, I look forward to working with them to bring these priorities to fruition. Of course, advocating for Hobsons Bay isn’t something we do only during elections. We must work continually with the other two levels of government on behalf of our community. I look forward to keeping you informed of our progress in all these areas and more over the next 12 months.

A new learning centre would be built at Queen of Peace Primary School in Altona Meadows if the Liberal-National coalition win the state election on Saturday, November 26. Liberal candidate for Point Cook Angela Newhouse visited the primary school on Friday, November 18 to announce a $2.85 million pledge towards the construction of the learning centre, which would include six dedicated learning spaces, an undercover breakout room and two quiet workspaces. Having been a teacher within the Point Cook electorate over the past four-and-a-half years, she said the addition to the school would create an “incredible teaching and learning environment”. FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Maribyrnong & Hobsons Bay Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

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For vacant blocks, we recommend you ensure your property meets the following criteria before the commencement of the inspection period commences: • Grass, weeds or undergrowth are under 10cm in height • Tree branches, leaves, green waste and/or rubbish are not on the property • Bushes/shrubs are not excessively overgrown • The property is free from combustible/flammable material (such as wood piles, dried grass, empty containers, and derelict vehicles)

Pier reopening commitment

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Champion for women By Goya Dmytryshchak A Williamstown woman who has received an Australia Day honour for significant service to women with ovarian cancer has recalled her own diagnosis, which brought heartbreak but also gratitude. Paula Benson, who formerly chaired Ovarian Cancer Australia, has been appointed a Member of the Order of Australia.

For properties over five acres, a fire break of 10 metres around the perimeter of the property is required. This includes the removal of all combustible/flammable material (such as wood piles, dried grass, empty containers, and derelict vehicles).

For more information on Council’s Fire Hazard Inspections please contact 1300 179 944.

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4 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 23 November, 2022

A Williamstown woman who has received an Australia Day honour for significant service to women with ovarian cancer has recalled her own diagnosis, which brought heartbreak but also gratitude. Paula Benson, who formerly chaired Ovarian Cancer Australia, has been appointed a Member of the Order of Australia. She was diagnosed with ovarian cancer at the age of 34 in 2003. “I know I am one of the very lucky ones because my GP did all the right things for me,” Ms Benson said. “When I went to her, I had this unexplained abdominal bloating, changes in my urinary and bowel habits and I felt really full after eating not very much.

‘‘

still so much more to do and we can’t rest until it’s done - Paula Benson

’’

“She sent me straight off that morning for a transvaginal ultrasound and she got me in to see a gynaecological oncologist that night and I had the surgery the next week. “No one thought that I would have ovarian cancer because I was young, I was 34 – largely, it’s women in their 50s, 60s, 70s who are diagnosed – and I have no history of ovarian or breast cancer in my family. “So, no one suspected that it could be ovarian cancer; they could see that I had a large cyst attached to one of my ovaries and that the ovary was damaged and that the cyst and the ovary would need to be removed. “When I woke up, my gyne-oncologist told me that she was very sorry but she’d found ovarian cancer and had to undertake a radical hysterectomy. “It was very shocking for a young woman to have that experience but I know my cancer was diagnosed early, it hadn’t spread and I know how lucky I am.” Ms Benson said she knew her story was not typical for most women with ovarian cancer, which prompted her to offer her services to Ovarian Cancer Australia in 2006. The same year, she and spouse Stephen Conroy, a former Labor senator, had baby girl 12459042-CG36-20

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Paula Benson. (Joe Mastroianni). 226296_02

Isabella with the help of a surrogate mother and a separate egg donor. “I do have a beautiful daughter,” Ms Benson said. “She’s 14 now. “I was very fortunate. One of my girlfriends donated eggs and another girlfriend carried her for me, so I’m very lucky to be a mum.” On learning of her Australia Day recognition, Ms Benson said she hoped it would raise more awareness of ovarian cancer. “When I first found out about it I felt quite

emotional really thinking about everything that we at Ovarian Cancer Australia have achieved over the past decade,” she said. “But I was just reflecting today, the same week that I found out about potentially receiving the award, I heard about another friend of mine who’s just been diagnosed with a gynecologic cancer and it was very grounding. “We’ve achieved so much, we’ve done so much and I’m so proud of that but there is still so much more to do and we can’t rest until it’s

done.” Ovarian Cancer Australia said under Ms Benson’s stewardship the organisation had achieved significant milestones, including developing and implementing Australia’s first national action plan for ovarian cancer research, securing $3 million federal funding for the Traceback ovarian cancer prevention program and the commitment of $20 million for ovarian cancer research from the federal government’s Medical Research Future Fund.

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VICTORIA VOTES

Labor tipped to hold west seat Labor MPs are expected to be returned in seats across the west, including in Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay electorates, according to a Monash University political expert. Dr Zareh Ghazarian said voters in the west are concerned about issues such as access to services, facilities and infrastructure amid rapid housing and population growth. He said they are also focussed on broader issues such as healthcare, education and transport service provision – all of which he said have dominated the election campaign

so far. Dr Ghazarian said while there is some anti-Labor sentiment in the community, he doesn’t believe there will be a big enough swing against Labor for the party to lose the election. “It still looks like this is Labor’s election to lose,” he said. Dr Ghazarian said the seat of Point Cook, formerly known as Altona, should be “easily retained” by Labor. “The margin is such that Labor should be able to hold on,” he said.

“If Labor starts losing seats like Point Cook, then it’s unlikely to win government because that should be a safe seat.” Dr Ghazarian said Footscray is also a “ultra safe seat” for Labor to retain, with a 28.7 per cent margin in favour of Labor. “For voters in an ultra safe seat, it probably wouldn’t be the case that they would have the major party leaders announce major announcements in their electorate,” he said. Dr Ghazarian said it was interesting the Liberals and Nationals weren’t using the pandemic as a talking point.

“That’s the great unknown in this election,” he said. “The extent to which people will be thinking about rewarding or punishing candidates based on their views of the pandemic management, and the handling of the pandemic.” Dr Ghazarian said after looking at the results of the federal election, where voters moved away from the major parties and towards minor parties and independent candidates, there could be a challenge to both the coalition’s and Labor’s primary votes.

Seven vie for election in Footscray

Fifteen candidates for Point Cook

The Footscray electorate has been held by Labor’s Katie Hall since 2018. The electorate takes in Footscray, West Footscray, Yarraville, Seddon, Kingsville, Maidstone and Maribyrnong. As a result of the 2020-21 redistribution of state electoral boundaries, the electorate lost 20,693 voters to the new Laverton electorate across Braybrook, Tottenham and parts of Brooklyn and gained 15,448 voters from the Williamstown electorate. Labor holds the seat with a 28.7 per cent margin. Six candidates have joined Ms Hall in nominating for election in Footscray. They are: Elena Pereyra (Greens), Shohre Mansouri Jajaee (Animal Justice Party), Russell Muir (Family First Victoria), Alan Williams (Labour DLP), Jorge Jorquera (Victorian Socialists), and Emete Joesika (Liberal).

The new seat of Point Cook will be contested by 15 candidates. The seat takes in Altona Meadows and Seabrook. The electorate was created following the 2020-21 redistribution of state electoral boundaries, as Seaholme and Altona were transferred to the Williamstown electorate and Laverton to the new seat of Laverton. As a result, 46,880 voters within the seat are within the former Altona electorate. Labor holds the seat with an estimated margin of 12.8 per cent. A total of 15 candidates are nominating for election in Point Cook. They are: Carolyn Cronkwright (Family First Victoria), Terri Beech (Animal Justice Party), Shamsher Khan (Greens), Larry Zhao (independent), Angela Newhouse (Liberal), Alex McAulay (Victorian Socialists), Lisa Jane Gatti (Transport Matters), Emma Law (Health Australia Party), Rakhi P. Chaudhary (New Democrats), Mathew Hilakari (Labor), Adrian Abdulovski (Freedom Party of Victoria), Shwetali Sawant (independent), Scott Grimley (Derryn Hinch’s Justice Party), Daniel Hamman (Labour DLP), and Joe Garra (independent).

The Point Cook electorate.

(Victorian Electoral Commission)

New seat of Laverton hotly contested

The Footscray electorate. (Victorian Electoral Commission)

The new seat of Laverton will be contested by 10 candidates. The seat takes in Laverton, Brooklyn, Tottenham and Braybrook and was created following the 2020-21 redistribution of state electoral boundaries. The electorate is made up of 2390 voters from the former Altona electorate and 20,693 voters from the Footscray electorate. The candidates are: Gurneet Soni (New Democrats), Braishna Durzada (Greens), David Fry (Family First Victoria), Rufo Paredes (independent), Michael Wirth (Labour DLP), Catherine Robertson (Victorian Socialists), Trent Raymond (Freedom Party of Victoria), Pouya Bagheri (Animal Justice Party), Sarah Connolly (Labor, currently Tarneit MP), and Raja Reddy (Liberal).

The Laverton electorate. (Victorian Electoral Commission)

Eight nominate for Williamstown

The Williamstown electorate. (Victorian Electoral Commission)

Dr Daniel Mulino MP Federal Member for Fraser has relocated to: Shop 1, 25-35 Clarke Street SUNSHINE VICTORIA 3020 Telephone: (03) 9070 1974 Email: Daniel.Mulino.MP@aph.gov.au

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The office for Dr Daniel Mulino MP

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The Williamstown electorate has been held by Labor’s Melissa Horne since 2018. The electorate takes in Williamstown, Williamstown North, Newport, Altona, Altona North, Seaholme, Brooklyn, Spotswood and South Kingsville. A 2020-21 boundary redistribution resulted in the electorate losing 15,448 voters to the Footscray electorate, including from Kingsville, Seddon and most of Yarraville and gaining 9775 voters from the former Altona electorate, including from Altona, Seaholme and part of Altona North. Labor has a 19.9 per cent margin. Seven candidates have joined Ms Horne in nominating for election in Williamstown. They are: Rochelle Fisher (Labour DLP), Daria Kellander (Liberal and Hobsons Bay councillor), Joshua Mosely (Family First Victoria), Alexander Ansalone (Freedom Party of Victoria), Julien Q. Macandili (Victorian Socialists), Suzette Rodoreda (Greens), and Patricia Mackevicius (Animal Justice Party).

Wednesday, 23 November, 2022 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 5

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Ex-cops call for more support By Fatima Halloum After devoting 13 years of her life serving the public, Claire Walker’s career as a police officer was snapped short when the Wyndham resident retired due to ill-health in 2009. Ms Walker’s real name cannot be pubished, as many of the criminals she helped clear from the streets remain a threat to her and her children, even after being out of the job for more than a decade. The lack of support following the devastating loss of a job she had sacrificed her mental wellbeing and physical safety for made Ms Walker feel like she was just another number.

“It’s like I didn’t exist, I had absolutely nothing [when I left],” she said. Ms Walker was able to find solace in Police Veteran’s Victoria (PVV), an organisation with a focus on improving mental health amongst veterans, claiming to be the sole support group for Victoria Police Veterans and their families. “They give you support, they give you advice, they let you know what the process is, they’re there as a representative, and help with financial issues, addiction issues, domestic abuse, mental health issues,” she said. Ms Walker said she couldn’t stress “the importance of the work they do” and she truly believes “so many veterans wouldn’t be here”

without the support of the PVV. PVV says it received almost 300 referrals during the 2021-22 financial year, an increase of 500 per cent year over year. But chief executive David McGowan said the group, which relies mostly on donations from the public and corporations, doesn’t have the funding or resources for significant growth. “Police officers get stabbed, they get shot, they get run over, they are exposed to the worst of humanity,” he said. “They’re very private, they’ll just withdraw, that results in suicide, self harm, we have veterans living in the street, in their cars.” In a letter seen by Star Weekly, Police

Minister Anthony Carbines recognised the “vital work” undertaken by the PVV, but did not commit to funding the organisation. “The prevalence of mental health issues among our police force is highly concerning,” Mr Carbines wrote. “The Victorian government recognises it is critical that our police officers receive the support and resources they need, and this is something we are working to address.” Mr McGowan said without necessary investment, the lack of support could be detrimental. “We’re trying to pick them up … [but without funding] this will just continue to impact [them].”

Matildas players drop in The cream of the crop of Maribyrnong’s football talent met with some of Australia’s best players recently with the Matildas stopping in for a visit. Led by the Australia and Chelsea forward Sam Kerr, and other Matildas players, including Arsenal stars Steph Catley and Caitlin Foord, visited Elite Football Training Facilities on Sunday, November 13 to meet and greet a number of their biggest fans and also play a few games. Elite Football managing director Barbara Paz said a lot of work went into keeping the visit a secret. “Eventually, it became apparent what a big deal this was going to be and that the Matildas would be attending, so we worked hard to deliver what we had to, to make sure that we could make the event a success,” she said.

Ms Paz said it was an honour to host the Matildas. “Elite Football offers elite facilities, and we are regularly used by the likes of Melbourne Victory for training and events, so we are used to having some big names around the place,” she said. “Our whole team is just mad about the world game. “It’s the sport we grew up with and loved and we are just passionate about being able to provide this wonderful facility to the local community, as well as our own football programs for players of all ages and abilities.”

Matildas forward Sam Kerr was part of the visiting squad. (Supplied)

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Plan to merge six VU colleges Victoria University [VU] is putting forward plans to merge its six Melbourne-based higher education colleges into two new schools, with the executive reassuring students will not be affected by any changes. With campuses in Sunshine, Werribee, St Albans, Footscray and Melbourne’s CBD, a VU spokesperson said the changes aim to create more effective, efficient and sustainable Higher Education and Research and Impact portfolios. “We intend to reduce duplication, create consistency in the college leadership structure and enhance our professional services so they

can confidently support our higher education and research activities,” the spokesperson said. “The proposed changes will not impact students. “We want to offer more greater opportunity to students by encouraging interdisciplinary, industry-engaged teaching and research collaboration – something that will make VU a stronger university and enhance the student experience.” The proposed changes will create two new schools, being a College of Health, Sport and Built Environment, which would cover science, engineering, sport, exercise and

outdoor recreation and a College of Arts, Business, Law and Education, which would cover law and justice, the VU Business School, information technology, physical education and sports management. A Learning and Teaching Support Services unit will also aim to unite the functional areas of Connected Learning, the Polytechnic’s Course Development and Design unit and Employability and Student Success. In Research Services and the Office of Research Training Quality and Integrity, the university is also aiming to streamline services

and implement a new leadership structure. The VU spokesperson said the goal of the changes will be to align VU’s organisational structure to match with its ‘Start Well, Finish Brilliantly’ strategic plan. “This is a case of strategy first, structure second,” the spokesperson said. The institution’s 2021 annual report highlighted a underlying operating result of a $16.3 million deficit, compared to a $3.5 million deficit in 2020 (excluding capital grants, capital donations, loss on asset sales and investment income).

Book shares a love of music with young readers Newport author Margaret Dugdale has enjoyed sharing her love for classical music with children through her new book for young readers named ‘Hamish and the Double Bass’. She helped launch the second hardback edition at a special event at the Newport Community Hub on November 13, with young readers celebrating alongside renowned double bassist Hamish Gullick and Telstra ARIA Music Teacher Award winner Zoë Barry. “She got them up conducting,” Ms Dugdale said. “It was beautiful.” She said the book came out of her experience as a therapist specialising in mother and infant mental health. “It took a few years to write this book,” Ms Dugdale said. Incorporating whimsical rhymes, ‘Hamish and the Double Bass’ tells the story of a young

Newport author Margaret Dugdale is excited to release a new hardback edition of ‘Hamish and the Double Bass’. (Damjan Janevski) 308769_01

boy who loves going to concerts and stumbles across a double bass which is too big for him to play.

Ms Dugdale said she wanted the book to be a celebration about the power of music and friendship.

“There aren’t many books for children about classical music and the celebration of making music with friends,” she said. “I think it’s a joy you carry all the way through life. “The book also communicates that it takes time to learn an instrument.” Ms Dugdale said illustrator Becky Stout also helped bring the story and vibrant locations such as the Princes Bridge, the waterwall at the National Gallery of Victoria and the Sydney Opera House. “She is an extraordinary illustrator,” she said. Ms Dugdale said she was working on her second children’s book named ‘Oomsky and Yeyo’. Copies of ‘Hamish and the Double Bass’ will be available at local bookstores, such as The Sun Bookshop in Yarraville and The Chestnut Tree Bookshop in West Footscray. Details: www.storytellingbooks.com

Get $4,000 when you switch to us. The grass is greener at RAMS. Apply by 28/02/23. Settle by 31/05/23. Min loan amount $250k, Owner Occupier with Principal and Interest repayments and Investment Loans. T&Cs apply.

RAMS Home Loan Centre Melbourne Inner West Michael Huynh 8418 1138 | 238 Barkly Sreet, Footscray More Information: Credit criteria, fees and charges apply. RAMS home loans are not available for foreign borrowers residing outside Australia. Offer is current as at 1 November 2022 and may be varied or withdrawn at any time. For new refinance applications received between 1 November 2022 and 28 February 2023. Settle by 31 May 2023. Min Loan $250k per property refinanced. Limit of 1 $4,000 rebate per settled refinance application regardless of the number of loans involved. This offer is not available in conjunction with the New Purchase Buyer $1,000 Rebate. Excludes Owner Occupier Interest Only, Line of Credit Loans, residential lending originated under family or company trusts and switches and refinances of home loans within the Westpac Group (St.George, Westpac, Bank of Melbourne, BankSA). Split loans are counted as one settled home loan regardless of the number of splits. Rebate will be automatically deposited into the home loan account within 60 days after settlement. If the home loan has a fixed interest rate, the rebate will count towards the prepayment threshold. Tax consequences may arise from this promotion for investors and customers should seek independent advice on any taxation matters. RAMS Melbourne Inner West is owned and operated by FINANCEMATTERS2US Pty Ltd ACN 152 802 545 as trustee for The TM Huynh Family Trust ABN 12 437 717 615. RAMS Financial Group Pty Ltd ABN 30 105 207 538, AR 405465 Australian Credit Licence 388065. Credit Provider & issuer of RAMS Deposit Products: Westpac Banking Corporation ABN 33 007 457 141 AFSL and Australian credit licence 233714. 23062/1122 12570375-HC47-22

Wednesday, 23 November, 2022 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 7

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E.coli detected in water samples By Matthew Sims The Environmental Protection Authority [EPA] Victoria has detected levels of E. coli, an indicator for faecal contamination, in the Maribyrnong River exceeded health guidelines during recent testing. The most recent testing on Wednesday, November 9 recorded the highest concentration of E. coli at the Footscray Rowing Club testing location at 1600 MPN (most probable number) per 100 millilitres, while it is advised that levels must not exceed 550 MPN. Solomon’s Ford’s results were at 240, while

the results at Pipemakers Park was 960. E. Coli concentration in the Maribyrnong River peaked at 7300 MPN at the Pipemakers Park testing location on Saturday, October 22, with other locations also exceeding safe limits Sunday, October 23’s testing. EPA has prioritised testing these samples for E. coli bacteria and a range of trace elements, such as metals and metalloids, and contaminants, including organic chemicals such as pesticides, perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances [PFAS], and petroleum hydrocarbons. EPA chief environmental scientist Professor

Mark Taylor said people were advised to not swim or kayak in the Maribyrnong or eat fish from the waterway. “Bacteria levels subside quickly but our testing shows at some locations on the river, E.coli levels were many times above the guidelines, at least for a period of time,” he said. “Rains wash more contamination into the water which then subside, and we expect to see some wide variations. “So, our advice remains that all flood waters both during and after the event, need to be treated as though they are contaminated and

to avoid contact wherever possible.” The testing was part of a joint water testing program held with support from Natural Hazards Research Australian the Victorian State Emergency Services [VICSES]. Natural Hazards Research Australia chief executive Andrew Gissing said entering floodwater remained dangerous. “This research in partnership with EPA and VICSES is essential to understand the broader harms associated with floodwater,” he said. Details: www.epa.vic.gov.au/ for-community/flood-impacted-rivers

Game, set and match Williamstown resident Robert Fletcher has helped hundreds of other vision-impaired individuals realise their dreams of playing tennis. He received the award for the Community Sportsperson of the Year at this year’s Disability Sport and Recreation Awards on Tuesday, November 8. Mr Fletcher said he was “quite honoured” to be named among the award recipients. Having established a blind tennis program at the Williamstown Bayside Tennis Club and currently the third seed in the B2 category of blind tennis, he said he has been a latecomer to the blind community after being diagnosed with Leber’s disease in his early 40s. “I’ve got no central vision and only four per cent in my peripheral vision,” he said. Having competed across the country as well as in Singapore, Mr Fletcher has helped Vision Australia conduct research to improve lives

of people with low vision, has supported his fellow team members to travel to Singapore and has been active in educating the broader tennis community on inclusion. Mr Fletcher said the Williamstown Bayside club has continued to grow recently with the support of coach James Wong, with their come and try sessions held every Tuesday morning from 9am to noon. “We’re quite active,” he said. “We’ve got wonderful facilities in the western suburbs. “We’re always looking to start up new programs.” Mr Fletcher said anyone interested in playing blind tennis or any form of sport with a disability should know that they are welcome to come and try. “I think blindness is an invisible disability,” he said. “We don’t have crutches.” Details: www.facebook.com/ williamstownbaysidetennis

Robert Fletcher and his dog Hamish.

(Joe Mastroianni) 307606_02

Changed traffic conditions on the West Gate Freeway outbound From December 2022

Changes to how you get to Grieve Parade We’re rebuilding the West Gate Freeway to increase capacity, and building an entrance to a new tunnel to take trucks off local roads and provide an alternative to the West Gate Bridge. From December, there will be changes on the West Gate Freeway to get to Grieve Parade.

What to expect On the West Gate Freeway (pictured right): Drivers travelling towards Brooklyn or Altona will need to decide at the West Gate Bridge to exit at Grieve Parade or Millers Road and move into the left lanes. As you approach Williamstown Road after going over the bridge, two of the four lanes will veer left, and will re-join after Grieve Parade. To exit at either Grieve Parade or Millers Road, stay in the two left lanes. Remember: • All lanes continue to the M80 Ring Road and the Princes Freeway. • While you’re on the road, look out for road signs. If you miss the Millers Road and Grieve Parade exit, please avoid making unsafe last-minute lane changes. You can get back to Grieve Parade by exiting at Kororoit Creek Road.

Keep in mind there are other disruptions during this time. Find a detailed list at bigbuild.vic.gov.au Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne

8 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 23 November, 2022

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Hobsons Bay Men’s Shed woodcarving group members John Hinks, Bernadette Brogan, Bob Sutcliffe and Paul Grant showing off some of their creations. (Picturs: Joe Mastroianni). 308188

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from softer woods such as jelutong and more exotic woods such as Huon pine. “You’re only limited by people’s imaginations,” he said. “There’s a great deal of satisfaction in creating something.” Women are welcome, but all participants must be members of the Hobsons Bay Men’s Shed. To donate any unused tools or to express your interest in joining the group, contact Mr Hinks via jah2802rot@gmail.com.

We specialize in Period Home renovations and extensions and Townhouse Developments We can offer Design and Construct of building drawings after Town Planning Permit has been Approved adding significantly to Value Management. We can recommend and work with Designers to obtain Town Planning Drawings and assist with Value Cost Management during the Town Planning design phase.

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From a recreation of the mask of Tutankhamun to a meerkat, members of the Hobsons Bay Men’s Shed have been busy bringing blocks of wood to life. Meeting every Tuesday from 9.30am to noon at 280 Queen Street in Altona, a group of about 10 keen woodcarvers have been learning how to use their tools to carve out a range of creations. Participant John Hinks said the group works with a range of different types of wood,

Shop 1, 139 R ailway Place, Williamstown I 9397 5147 I buck nerbuilt.com.au Wednesday, 23 November, 2022 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 9

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A business baked to perfection Katelyn Matheson is a young entrepreneur who is showing the world that you can have your cake and eat it too as Narelle Coulter discovered.

K

atelyn Matheson’s cupcake empire is built on copious amounts of sugar, butter and flour mixed with generous dollops of passion and love. At just 24, Kate oversees a rapidly expanding business, which employs 30 people including her mum and brother. The hub of Cake Creations by Kate is a manufacturing warehouse in Werribee from which Kate’s team of equally passionate bakers and support staff churn out up to 30,000 cupcakes a week, as well as macarons, speciality cakes and cookies. Kate’s cupcakes are enjoyed in some of Melbourne’s most prestigious boardrooms including ANZ, Crown, Myer, NAB, Telstra and Optus. In September Cake Creations by Kate was crowned the Wyndham Business of the Year. Not bad for a business that started in 2016 with a stall at the Flemington Craft Market selling cakes Kate baked in her mum’s Point Cook kitchen. “It has been an amazing journey. I love that (with baking) you start with almost nothing and turn it into something that is magical and amazing and unique to you,” Kate explained. Kate learnt her early baking skills from her Grandma Joan. Her grandparents had a farm at Little River and Kate loved collecting the fresh eggs for her grandmother’s special sponge cakes. Grandma Joan would separate out the egg whites and beat them until they were light and fluffy. After adding aerated flour and sugar and gently folding the mixture (over mixing can be fatal to a sponge) and baking in a moderate oven, the resulting cakes would often be donated to bake sales in support of local charities and community groups. “I was cooking with her probably from when I was seven or eighy and I then really grew a passion for baking in my early teenage years,” explained Kate, whose first part-time job was in a cake decorating supply store. At school Kate knew creativity was her strong point. She excelled at food technology and her supportive teacher encouraged her to pursue baking as a career. In 2016 after finishing high school, Kate enrolled in a certificate IV in patisserie at William Angliss. Six months into the course, she was running to catch a tram to get to an exam when she injured her ankle. To make money while she convalesced, Kate decided to bake cupcakes following grandma Joan’s recipe to sell at markets. “I remember saving up to buy a gazebo and I had to find $100 to pay for the stall, which was a lot of money to me then. I made 200 cupcakes and sold them all that day. “At that time cupcakes were very niche. A lot of people were doing big cupcakes or desserts. I started making mini ones which was what set me apart.” What also set Kate’s cupcakes apart were the imaginative fillings she concocted - salted caramel, lemon, cookies and cream, Snickers, white chocolate raspberry, jam donut, triple chocolate and Mars Bar. The filling flavours proved so popular, Kate’s eight flavour creations are still used in Cake Creations’ original range today. After a year of selling cupcakes at markets, Kate decided to take the next step and book a pop-up stall at Craigieburn Central shopping centre after seeing a Facebook advertisement. “I thought I would give it a shot. It was a Thursday and mum was at work so I packed up on my own and drove to Craigieburn, from Point Cook. I was so busy I sold 400 cupcakes in the first hour and a half. “After that experience I thought shopping

Above: Kate with mum Elizabeth and brothers Callum and Lachlan outside the Cake Creations store in Point Cook. Below: Kate with Jonanthan Santi from Williams Landing after accepting the Business of the Year accolade; A sample of Kate’s delicious creations.

Young entrepreneur Katelyn Matheson. Inset: Kate with her beloved Grandma Joan. (Pictures: Supplied)

‘‘

I love that you start with almost nothing and turn it into something that is magical and amazing and unique to you - Kate Matheson

’’

centres are the way to go. They are air conditioned and I didn’t need a gazebo. It was clear to me that that was the way forward and it opened up a world of opportunities. Before long I had shopping centres calling me because they saw how successful I was. It was very overwhelming but I started to realise had something very successful.” Kate was still living at home with her mum, Elizabeth, in Point Cook. The lounge room was converted into a production kitchen and Elizabeth became Cake Creations’ first employee. Without an industrial oven, Kate was limited to baking 48 cupcakes a time. It would take her 10 hours to bake and decorate enough stock for a pop-up stall. Customers would also line-up outside the family’s Point Cook house on weekends to buy her creations. When a second pop-up in the Point Cook Shopping Centre “went wild” Kate knew her product was literally selling like hot-cakes. “The community in Point Cook really got behind us as a small business. Suddenly, Stockland was chasing me to open a (permanent) shop.” Kate said the negotiations over the lease for the store were “scary” for an 18-year-old with no previous experience. And nor were banks willing to lend money to a teenager with a crazy cupcake dream. Despite the challenges, Kate saved enough money and opened her first permanent store in 2017 just after her 19th birthday. “It was definitely very scary and I had a lot of sleepless nights as I didn’t know if people would buy from us long term. At that point we were making up to 5000 cupcakes a week from

10 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 23 November, 2022

mum’s kitchen so I knew it could be done, that it was a calculated risk. I knew we had the right product. “In the lead up to opening we had to move everything from mum’s kitchen. I didn’t sleep for two days, but when we opened the doors at 9am there were people everywhere. Customers came to support me and we haven’t looked back since.” When the store first opened Kate was baking and serving herself until she knew the business was on a sound financial foot and she was able to start hiring staff. By 2020, Cake Creations was “growing really fast” and Kate was taking orders from big corporate clients on a regular basis. Then COVID-19 hit. Undeterred, Kate and her team were able to adapt and diversify throughout 2020 to transform the business amid the chaos of snap lockdowns, some of which lasted months. “We changed a lot of products to dessert packs which could be shared with family and funny gift packs people were able to send to family and friends. The cakes said ‘I miss you’ or ‘Sending love and sugar’ or ‘COVID sucks’. They took off on social media and business skyrocketed. “We went from having no orders in the system, to 700 deliveries a day in Melbourne. We had no infrastructure for deliveries and no route planning software. We had to purchase vans and hire more delivery staff.” Deciding to take another “calculated risk”, Kate purchased a commercial property in Werribee in 2020 to create more kitchen space to handle large corporate orders and the burgeoning delivery business. The Werribee factory finally opened March 2022. Since then the business has grown by another 5 baking teams as well as an additional administration team member. Kate is immensely proud of the job opportunities her business has created and she is also conscious of giving back. Inspired by grandma Joan, Cake Creations regularly donates sweet treats to nursing homes and also charities which feed the homeless. The business

also raises money for breast cancer research. As her business grows, Kate is conscious of making sure she spends as much time as possible in the kitchen. “I put myself mainly in the kitchen and outsource things I don’t like doing like managing the business. I enjoy baking and managing the kitchen teams every day and making sure the quality is up to my standards.” Kate is also in charge of innovation and new ideas. Reminiscent of the injured ankle that prompted the idea of selling cupcakes at markets, it was car accident that got Kate thinking up her latest business venture cupcake vending machines. “I had a dream where I saw the exact machine we have now. I woke up and it felt so real.” Kate knew dispensing cupcakes from vending machines would allow her to reach new markets and fuel a growth plan to be in a “new suburb every week if we want”. The vending machine proposal spent a year in development as the machine needed to smoothly deliver product to consumers without damaging the cakes. The first vending machine, installed at Caroline Springs Shopping Centre, was “a wild success”. A larger roll-out of vending machines is anticipated next year in Melbourne and in some regional locations such as Geelong. Kate’s advice for other young entrepreneurs with a great business idea is to do lots of research and “keep trying, even if you don’t succeed the first time”. “Passion, hard work and sacrifice will get you to where you want to go.” Grandma Joan didn’t live long enough to taste the sweet flavour of Kate’s success. However, her grandfather Ivan, who died in February, regularly reminded Kate of how proud grandma Joan would have been. “He was my biggest supporter. He would wear his Cake Creations T-shirt and tell me he was trying get me (new) business,” said Kate. “He was very proud and would tell me ‘Grandma would love what you are doing’.”

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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

Christmas fair Friday, December 2, 3.30pm to 7pm and Saturday, December 3, 9am to 2pm. Gold coin donation. Door prizes, sales of home-made novelty gifts, plants, Christmas treats, toys, cards and handcrafts. Hot food, cold drinks, tea and coffee available. St. Stephens Uniting Church, 179 Melbourne Road, Williamstown.

Jamaican Music & Food Festival On Saturday, December 10, Jamaican music and food fans will get to experience one day of reggae, dub, rocksteady and dancehall music. Sound-tracked by the very best DJs, artists and live music the country has to offer, the Jamaican Music & Food Festival has become a benchmark for performance inspired by and straight out of Jamaica. Come together to experience one glorious summertime day of reggae, dub, rocksteady and dancehall music. Seaworks Maritime Precinct, 82 Nelson Place, Williamstown from 11am. ■ www.jmff.com.au

World Championship The Royal Yacht Club of Victoria is hosting the International Cadet Class 2022 World Championship incorporating the International Cadet Class 2022 Australian Championship and International Cadet Class World Championship. The International Cadet Class is the only World Sailing doublehanded junior class boat catering for the ages of 7-17. It is currently sailed in 19 countries across four continents. As well as an action-packed sailing schedule, there will be a strong social program including activities, food and drinks and live music. The event runs between December 19 and January 2, between 10am and 5pm. ■ rycv.com.au

Footscray Night Market The Footscray Night Market is set to return this December taking place on three Friday evenings in the historic gardens of Railway Reserve in Footscray. Each Friday night will offer a different cuisine from around the world matched with a full line-up of entertainment showcasing each culture. Applications are now open for local food traders who are interested to trade at the Footscray Night Market. 5pm to 9pm on Friday, December 2, 9 and 16. ■ www.foodietrails.com.au/events/ footscray-night-market-2022

Edible gardens Take a peek inside some of Hobsons Bay’s most bountiful food gardens at My Smart Garden’s Edible Garden Open Days. Meet local gardening legends Adeline and Peter and get pointers on using seaweed in the garden, composting, poultry, natural pest control and design for small spaces. Peter’s garden will be open in Seaholme from 2.30pm to 3.30pm on Sunday, November 27. Adeline’s garden will be open in Altona from 4pm to 5pm on Sunday, November 27. ■ mysmartgarden.org.au

Christmas picnic The Braybrook Community Hub is hosting a fun family evening at Aeroplane Park in Braybrook. There will be lots of free activities including face painting, pony rides, a magician, a free coffee van, local artisan market stalls, art activities, a visit from Santa Claus, refreshments and a sausage sizzle. All are welcome. Bring your family and friends, a rug and picnic basket, full of your favourite goodies and have a fabulous evening. 6pm to 8pm on Friday, December 9. Braybrook Community Hub, 107-139 Churchill Ave, Braybrook.

Photographer’s choice picture is of Xavier, 16, and Cooper, 17, ahead of the Braybrook BMX Festival. (Damjan Janevski) 307885_01

■ www.maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/Events/ Braybrook-Christmas-picnic-in-the-park or 9188 5800

vintage@esc.net.au or Joe Pellone on 0431 915 970 or joepellone@gmail.com

AeroSpeakers Toastmasters Club Motoring group November is a busy month for the Hobsons Bay Men’s Shed Motoring Group. On Saturday, November 26, the group will have a static display at the Geelong Revival Festival. ■ HBMS.MotoringEvents@gmail.com or 0417 531 670

Movie screening Braybrook Community Centre is hosting a free film screening of Hidden Figures, a movie about a team of female mathematicians who served a vital role in NASA during the early years of the USA’s space program. The event is part of Maribyrnong council’s annual 16 Days of Activism against Gender Based Violence campaign, which is an international campaign dedicated to eliminating gender-based violence running from November 25 to December 10. It is used to raise awareness, undertake advocacy and take action to end violence against women. 12.30pm to 2.30pm, Thursday, December 6. Braybrook Community Hub, 107-139 Churchill Ave, Braybrook. ■ www.maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/Events/ Hidden-Figures-Film-Screening or 9188 5800

Introduction to computer classes The Williamstown Community and Education Centre is offering free enrolment for the rest of the year for Beginners Computer classes. Classes are on most days of the week, mornings or afternoon, at either Joan Kirner House Williamstown or Altona North Library. ■ Lynne, 9397 6168

Free English conversation Is English your second language? Do you want to improve your English language skills? Practice speaking English with friendly volunteer tutors in informal and interactive group sessions. Light refreshments provided. Weekly each Monday during school terms from 1pm to 3pm at Altona Library. ■ Jill Mackenzie on 0439 994 705 or

Would you like to develop confidence in communicating, competence with language and clarity in writing? AeroSpeakers Toastmasters Club would like to invite any and all residents to join them on the first and third Thursday of every month to help develop public speaking, communication and leadership skills. The group meets at the Laverton Community Hub, 95-105 Railway Avenue, Laverton from 7.00-9.30pm. ■ Helen Fairlie, 0474 498 052

Art workshops The Louis Joel Arts & Community Centre presents MonArt. Workshops for people of all abilities facilitated by community art specialist Amanda Neville. Mondays 10am to 11.30am. $5 casual fee each week. ■ admin@ljac.com.au or 9398 2511

West Footscray Rotary The Rotary Club of West Footscray meets at the Medway Golf Club in Maidstone for lunch, fellowship and guest speakers each Wednesday from 12.30pm until 2pm. New members and visitors welcome. ■ David, 0416 497 398

Walking group The Altona Meadows & Newport Heart Foundation Walking Group is a local community of men and women committed to walking and socialising together for about 60 minutes. It meets Wednesdays at 10am at the Jolly Miller Cafe in Altona Meadows or Fridays at 10am at the Newport Lakes Reserve. Members are required to register with the Heart Foundation in order to join. ■ Ian Watson, 0411 566 862 or www. hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/Community/ Whats-On/Altona-Meadows-and-NewportHeart-Foundation-Walking-Groups

bric-a-brac, handcrafts, hot jam donuts, tools, clothing and much more. There is live music every month from the Cherry Lake Cultural Series, showcasing local musicians from across Hobsons Bay. From 9am to 1pm. Cherry Lake, Millers Road, Altona. ■ www.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/Community/ Whats-On/Altona Lions Club Cherry Lake Market, or, cherrylakemarket@gmail.com

Cobber Club Cobber Club provides exercises suitable for seniors, including chair exercises. The club meets on Mondays at 10am at Oz Tenpin at 2 Linmax Court, Point Cook on the first Monday of each month, Altona RSL at 63 Sargood Street, Altona on the second and fourth Mondays and at the Altona Badminton Centre at 271 Mason Street in Altona North.

Williamstown book sale Friends of Williamstown Library holds a book sale every second Saturday of each month, 10am-12.30 pm. The book sale is held at Williamstown library in the Friends room, which can be accessed through the front desk. The event is cash only. ■ libraries.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au

Drop in chess, cards and Scrabble If you love playing chess, cards or a game of Scrabble in an informal and fun setting, visit Braybrook Community Centre on Tuesdays, from noon-2.30pm.

Woodcarving workshop Aimed at all levels of ability in the ancient and international craft of woodcarving. Women are welcome. Bring your own tools and projects if possible. Or do you have Grandpa’s old gouges to donate? On Tuesdays, 9.30am to noon, at 280 Queen Street, Altona. ■ jah2802rot@gmail.com

Alcoholics Anonymous Cherry Lake Market Altona Lions Club Cherry Lake Market is held on the first Sunday of the month. Set between Millers Road and the stunning Cherry Lake in Altona, this market has something for everyone. The market hosts more than 60 stalls selling plants,

Regular meetings of Alcoholics Anonymous are held at St Andrew’s Church Hall, Williamstown, Wednesday at 7pm and Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Newport, Thursday 6.30pm and Saturday 8.30am. ■ 1300 22 22 22, or www.aatimes.org.au

Wednesday, 23 November, 2022 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 11

PUZZLES 10

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In what year was the video game Dark Souls released: 2007, 2009 or 2011?

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Which of the following is not a brass instrument: cor anglais/ English horn, flugelhorn or cornet?

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Which African country has the largest population?

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SUDOKU

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

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Wednesday, 23 November, 2022 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 13

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Existing Lattice Tower, Freight Terminal, Dynon Road, Footscray NSW 3011 Optus Vodafone Ref: M1280, www.rfnsa.com.au/3011002 1. The proposed facility consists of the addition of new 5G equipment and associated works as follows: r Recovery of three (3) existing 4G panel antennas (2.53m long) r Installation of nine (9) new 5G panel antennas (between 0.59 and 0.79m long) r Installation of six (6) combined 4G and 5G panel antennas (2.68m long) r Provision for six (6) future panel antennas (between 0.6m and 1.5m long) r New ancillary equipment including remote radio units, cabling and antenna mounts r Reconfiguration of existing equipment on the facility and within the shelter r The existing lattice tower is 35 metres high, and the antennas will be mounted between centreline heights of 29 metres and 35 metres 2. Optus and Vodafone regard the proposed installation as a low-impact facility in accordance with the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 2018 (Amendment No.1, 2021) based on the description above. 3. Notification is being undertaken in accordance with Section 7 of Industry Code C564:2020 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment. 4. Members of the public may obtain further information on the proposed work, and we invite you to provide written comments about the proposal. Further information and/or comments should be directed to Optus’ representative c/- Elliot Nelson, Catalyst ONE Pty Ltd; phone: 02 4022 9533; email: consultation@catalystone.com.au and post: PO Box 1119, Crows Nest NSW 1585 by 8 December 2022.

ADVERTISERS PLEASE NOTE Anyone advertising a puppy, dog, kitten or cat in Victoria for sale or re-homing will need a source number from the Pet Exchange Register and a microchip identification number. It is now an offence to advertise unless the source number and microchip identification number is included in the advertisement or notice. For further information, call 136 186 or visit animalwelfare.vic.gov.au

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Outlander plugs into the future By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring For those who think the switch from ’dirty’ fossil fuels to ’clean’ electric power is too severe. Flat battery; no go; range anxiety? Happily, there is a halfway house - hybrid power. Petrol / electric hybrid vehicles have been around for years - think Toyota Prius and Honda Insight - the former still on the streets, leading the way, especially in the fleet world such as that of taxis. In these vehicles an internal combustion engine is used to charge a battery, which feeds an electric motor, partially powering the car. Still a source of pollution. What if the engine could be by-passed and the battery charged externally? Enter the plug-in hybrid electric vehicle, in which petrol and battery power are used in tandem to drive the vehicle at optimum reduced emissions until the battery is out of juice and internal combustion automatically takes over completely. Range relief! The first sports utility vehicle to take advantage of the combined powertrain, the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, which made its way Down Under a decade ago, has sold more than 300,000 units, making it the most popular plug-in in the world. The latest generation comes in four variants - ES five-seater, aspire five-seat, Exceed 5+2 seater and Exceed Tourer 5+2-seater. Prices start at $54,590 and top out at $68,490, plus on-road costs. On test was the Outlander PHEV Aspire 5 seat at $60,990.

Styling Compared with the outgoing model, the new Outlander is longer, wider, taller, heavier and boasts a longer wheelbase. Muscular flared fenders match its broad shoulders. Sharp daytime running lights cap off an LED headlamp cluster designed to provide greater visibility over long distances, while extended horizontal rear LED lights with T-shaped ends highlight the Outlander PHEV’s distinctive shoulders. Machined 20-inch alloy wheels bolster the Aspire’s impressive stance.

Interior The cabin presented a relaxed, quiet, even when the petrol motor was in action, the only intrusion was road noise on non-too-smooth bitumen or concrete. The seats, however, were on the firm side. Leg and shoulder space was generous, thanks to the absence of a third row of seating, which also contributed to plenty of room in the boot - 485 litres with seat backs up and up to 1478 litres with second row backs folded. Loading was made easy by a power liftback and flat removable floor, under which was located various tools and charging leads, but no spare tyre, full size or otherwise. Thereby hangs a tale (see Driving section below).

Infotainment All plug-in Outlanders feature a 9-inch touchscreen displaying menu and maps clearly and moving between modes is simple, while the Aspire grade has a 12.3-inch digital information set-up showing powertrain info and speed, plus other configurable info.

Engines / transmissions All grades are powered by an upgraded 2.4 litre four-cylinder engine, combined with a pair of electric motors on front and rear axles, delivering 185 kW and 450 Nm to all four wheels.

Safety The Outlander PHEV shares the five-star ANCAP safety grade won by its petrol-only sibling earlier this year. Active safety includes autonomous emergency braking (forward and reverse), lane departure warning, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, traffic sign recognition, adaptive cruise control, rear cross-traffic alert and surround view camera. Passive safety is covered by eight airbags,

The latest generation Mitsubishi Outlander plug-in hybrid SUV continues its standing at the top of the segment. (Pictures: Supplied)

including in the front centre position. With the lack of engine noise the car lets out a muffled bell ringing sound to alert unwary pedestrians.

Driving You meet a better class of cabbie at public charging stations; I’m talking about the Uber driver ’of a certain age’ and his Tesla Model 3. With a lazy half hour to spare during a busy schedule we chatted while the test Outlander PHEV was on fast charge. Forty minutes later, the Outlander battery 80 per cent juiced (70-odd kilometres range on the clock), with $4.09 paid, we parted ways. During a spread of driving tasks, the test car came up on average with energy consumption of just over 20.0 kWh per 100 kilometres, against a maker’s claim of 19.2 kWh / 100km. The petrol engine chips in only if you load up the acceleration or the vehicle tops 135 km/h. It also helps charge the battery, as does braking through kinetic energy conversion. Mitsubishi claims, on dual fuel, the PHEV uses 1.5 litres per 100 kilometres. With the battery flat, the engine automatically

16 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 23 November, 2022

AT A GLANCE MODEL RANGE Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV ES 5 seat: $54,590 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV Aspire 5 seat: $60,990 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV Exceed 5+2 seat: $65,990 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV Exceed Tourer 5+2 seat: $68,490

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

shoulders the load, recording on test, fuel consumption of around 5 litres per 100 kilometres. The system’s performance can be tracked visually through an animated diagram on the instrument panel. Home charging from a 240V outlet, the maker claims 9.5 hours from zero to 100 per cent, or 6.5 hours from a domestic wall box. Alternatively, charging to 80 per cent can be done from the on-board generator in

one-and-a-half hours. Driving to conditions are catered for by up to seven modes - I stuck mostly to Normal during the test - available through a wheel on the centre console, while four power modes - Normal, EV, Save and Charge - can be accessed by means of an adjacent button. Also close by is a button that calls into action regenerative braking strong enough to allow one-pedal driving, good enough to bring the car almost to a complete stop. Six softer stages of braking can be operated using steering wheel-mounted shift paddles. A head-up display on the windscreen covers speed and legal speed limits. Tow rating is 1600 kg braked and 750 kg unbraked.

Summary Despite the initial cost of ownership, with petrol prices rapidly heading north, any vehicle that eases the wallet wound is worth looking into. The Outlander Aspire plug-in hybrid covers all petrol / electric bases without the anxiety of its meagre 80-plus kilometre limited EV range. The industry-leading warranty is the icing on the cake.

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VU Western Spurs join the WRFL in season ‘23 The VU Western Spurs will call the Western Region Football League home from next season. The Spurs, who have been playing in the Northern Football League since the introduction of location-based competitions, feel the time is right to move their matches closer to home. The Spurs won three premierships while they played in the NFL and had been one of the competition’s most successful clubs. The Spurs fielded one side in the NFL’s top division finishing sixth. They’ve previously had multiple sides, along with a masters side. Spurs president Ash Block said the club was excited about this next chapter in their club’s history. The club, which was formerly based in St Albans, has called Footscray home for a number of years. “This (move) comes as the club’s best interest to further succeed, to develop, to maintain players, volunteers and staff and to recruit new Spurs for the future,” Block said. “We are extremely grateful for our time

VU Western Spurs

(supplied)

with the NFNL where premierships were won, players drafted to the AFLW, our coaches stepping into the next level, our staff representing the NFNL rep league, and players and coaches winning individual awards.” Next season will be a big season for the club, as it marks its 30th anniversary. New WRFL chief executive Ritchie Hinton

said they were thrilled to have the Spurs joining the competition. “They spoke to the other clubs during the process and spoke about how strong the league is now,” he said. “For them now it makes more sense to play in the WRFL. They see themselves as a western suburbs team and for women’s sport in general it’s a good news story.

“We’re pleased that a new club, a high profile club in the women’s space, is interested in being involved with us.” Hinton said the connection between the Spurs and Victoria University was another connection shared with the league. VU sponsors the league including being the naming partner for the women’s competitions. “VU is a great partner of ours and sponsors the league,” he said. “It creates those relationships and helps further establish VU in the community and in the cohesion in the west.” Hinton said the growth of female participation in the league was something that he wanted to continue to see grow, He said both female football and netball both are major parts of the competition going forward. “In an ideal world we have summer netballers, being winter footballers,” he said. “If we can continue to have the dual sport model it benefits both sports.” Tara Murray

Rising stars join Vixens

Jessica McDonald evades a tackle.

(Joe Mastroianni). 309000_06

United’s winning debut By Tara Murray Western United made a winning start to life in the A-League Women’s competition, knocking off reigning premiers Melbourne Victory in a round one upset. United fans packed City Vista Reserve in Caroline Springs on Saturday afternoon, as they got their first look at the United side. Fans would have been happy with what they saw, with United coming away with a 1-0 win after Jess McDonald scored in the second half. United coach Mark Torcaso said they were thrilled to finally get out on the park. The lead up to the match wasn’t without drama, with a couple of players in doubt pre-game as they waited for clearances to come through. “It was really good,” he said. “It was great to have all the people here supporting, we probably would have had a few more if the weather was better. “It’s a statement, but again it’s the first game, just take each game and week at a time.” While the rain held off throughout the

game, the wind made conditions difficult as it favoured one end. Torcaso said the wind meant the match was made even and the side which adjusted better would be the one to come away with the win. “I thought we did extremely well in the first half going into the wind and the girls had a lot of faith,” he said. “In the second half… I think it was then just a matter of us scoring, we probably should have had another one or two in the end.” Both sides had their chances in the first half but neither were able to convert. McDonald scored in the 54th minute after a free kick got the ball into the box and McDonald bounced after another shot was smothered first. Torcaso said the attack linked up really well in their first official hit out. “Hannah [Keane], Jess, even Kahli [Johnson] they’ve been fantastic and the depth that we’ve got, depth in our squad. “Aleks Sinclair was able to come on and have an impact as well.” One of the biggest cheers of the day was for

Sinclair when she came on in the second half. After a successful National Premier League career, Sinclair made her A-League debut at the age of 34. For Torcaso, who has been her NPLW coach at Calder United, it was pretty special. “I probably had a little bit of a tear when she come over and hugged me and said we’re here,” he said. “It’s an amazing opportunity for Aleks. It’s just great for Aleks and it’s also good, she’s a western girl and a local girl.” Sinclair was one of a number of players who stepped up from NPLW level and looked right at home. Torcaso said it was exciting to see them show that they can play at this level. Matildas’ star Chloe Logarzo Come off of the bench for United having joined the program late due to Matildas commitments, had an instant impact as did American Sydney Cummings, who controlled the back half. United will be on the road this week, facing the Wellington Phoenix on Saturday.

A couple of City West Falcons rising stars and a Maribyrnong Sports Academy gun have been named in the Melbourne Vixens Academy for next year. The Falcons announced that 13 athletes had been invited to be part of the Vixens academy, which gives them the opportunity to be immersed in the Vixens high performance training environment. The Academy enables players in the Victorian netball pathway to experience what it takes to become an elite netballer, with sessions focusing on individual skill development, creating connections with the Vixens group and exposure to the culture of the Vixens. Charli Nicol and Mikaela Minns, who played key roles in the City West Falcons under-19 premiership have been named in the academy. Minns, who is from the Altona Netball Association, was named in the under-17 state team earlier this year, while Nicol was named in the under-19 state team. Point Cook’s Charlotte Morey, who goes to school at the Maribyrnong Sports Academy, is also in the squad. Academy members will have access to Vixens players both on and off court, and the brains trust of the club including head coach Simone McKinnis and assistant coach Di Honey. Susan Meaney will continue to spearhead the Academy in 2023 as head coach, with the Melbourne Vixens 2022 specialist coach eager to impart on the next crop of potential Vixens. “It’s a privilege to be involved in the Vixens Academy program, to have the opportunity to work with our up-and-coming talent so they can be exposed to a Vixens high performance training environment,” she said. “You’ve got the likes of head coach Simone McKinnis and assistant coach Di Honey who have such a wealth of experience together and success with their athletes, combined with Vixens players coming in and taking some of the sessions. “They’re learning from them first-hand, not only their on-court experience but how to carry themselves as high performance athletes, how to manage themselves as athletes and people. It’s an incredible opportunity for these young athletes.” Tara Murray

Wednesday, 23 November, 2022 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 17

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Altona aiming to click and find wininng form Altona knows it has to lift its game in the Bowls Victoria weekend pennant premier division. The A’s started the season with two good wins, but have dropped their next two games to fall back at the pack. Coach and premier player Dane McKinnon said it had been a real mixed start for the side. “We had a good start with two wins and then a wash out,” he said. “The washout game was against Melbourne which has won the last two years. It was one that we were looking forward to. “We had those two good wins away from home, but the last two weeks we’ve been a little bit disappointing. “We would have liked to be 3-1 or 4-0 at this time of the season.” McKinnon said this season was shaping up to be a close one, with teams needing to be on their best to ensure they come away with the points. He said there had been some results early

that not many people would have predicted. “A lot of sides are capable of winning on their day,” he said. “The two teams that have come up from division one are both tricky, especially on their home decks. “We played Richmond Union and it was hard conditions, they were better than what we were. “Fitzroy beat Deer Park and on paper I don’t think anyone thought they had a chance. “You can’t take anyone lightly.” McKinnon said they were hoping the next couple of weeks to get more of an idea who their best side is. He said they had recruited a number of players this season across the club, which had resulted in the club going from five to seven teams. “We’ve got a bit more depth which is good,” he said. “We’ve got a few new players playing in the first team.

“We’ve named three marquee players again this year. We’ve only had one of them at most in our games so far. “We need to get everyone gelling and working together and work out what our best 16 looks like.” McKinnon said they were hoping to have at least two of the three marquee players, David Ferguson, Ben Twist and Nick Cahill, in the lead up to the Christmas break. He said having them on board strengthens the side up and they were happy to have them back on board against his year. The A’s didn’t play on the weekend, with a competition wide bye due to the Victorian Open. McKinnon said like usual the aim was to make finals this season. “We’ll look to qualify for finals and see what happens.” Tara Murray Nathan Wilson (Damjan Janevski)

Challenge for Bulldogs By Tara Murray Footscray is starting to find some form in the Victorian Premier Cricket competition, claiming victory against the Camberwell Magpies on Saturday. The Bulldogs sit 2-2 after the first four rounds with coach Dale McDonald saying they were starting to put together some good cricket. “It has been a slower start than we would have liked,” he said. “It’s been unsettling for everyone. “We’re starting to find some good form and we have some challenging teams coming up which should be a good challenge.” On Saturday, the Bulldogs accounted for the Magpies at Camberwell. With the threat of rain hanging over the game, the match wasn’t played in easy conditions. McDonald said they were made to work hard for the win. “It was a nice win in hard fought conditions,” he said. “The wicket wasn’t great without being too critical. “It wasn’t ideal conditions.” The Magpies were bowled out for 152 in the 42nd over. Max Birthisel took 4-27 for the Bulldogs. While the run chase wasn’t a massive one, it was something McDonald said they weren’t taking lightly. “I had no doubt that we would make the runs,” he said. “It was a lot harder than what the boys would have normally had to do, We got there really well in the end. “Ryan Stingel came in on debut and got 35 and another four or five guys contributed.” The Bulldogs finished 4-152 from 41 overs with Stingel top scoring. McDonald said it was a good opportunity for Stingel, who crossed from Essendon in the off season, with Dylan Brasher out injured. “It came on the back of some good foundations in the seconds in the opening rounds,” he said. “With Dylan out injured, Ryan did his chances no harm.” McDonald said they were hopeful that Brasher would return this week. He missed the match with Camberwell with a bulging disc in his back after pulling up sore on Friday. While Brasher missed Saturday, the other Dylan, Dylan Kight is starting to find some form after returning the previous week. “He’s had a shoulder injury,” he said. “It’s still impacting him a little bit but he has come back in and showed his class. “He made 30 not out on the weekend

Dylan Kight. (Mark Wilson)

and was outstanding.” The Bulldogs this week face Melbourne University at home, the first of three home matches in a row. There were mixed results across the board for the Bulldogs on Saturday. Their second XI won with a couple of players pushing their cases for a first XI spot. “They’re going really well,” he said. “Josh

18 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 23 November, 2022

Pace has started off really well. He has come from Keilor and is doing really well and got under-17 Victorian selection along with a couple of other boys. “It’s not surprising that he is one to watch in the future. James Doherty made another 60 odd and is pushing for a middle order spot or a spot in the T20s which are coming up.” The third and fourth XI both suffered losses.

WRFL appeals loss of clubs New Western Region Football League chief executive Ritchie Hinton said Deer Park and St Albans are still considered important parts of the league despite their wishes to move competitions. Last week, the league announced it was appealing against AFL Victoria’s decision to allow St Albans and Deer Park to move to the Essendon District Football League. “Following on from previous updates regarding the objection of Deer Park and St Albans’ application to transfer to the Essendon District Football League, the WRFL board has opted to exercise its right to go through the AFL Victoria appeals process after both objections to transfer were dismissed,” the league said in a statement. “The appeal will be heard by an AFL Victoria Appeals Panel at a yet to be determined date.” Earlier this month, AFL Victoria dismissed the Western Region Football League’s objection to Deer Park and St Albans leaving the competition and joining the EDFL. As reported by Star Weekly, the two clubs had applied to join the EDFL for 2023, which was supported by the EDFL board. The WRFL decided to exercise its right to go through the AFL Victoria objection process. AFL Victoria said the panel was satisfied that the Deer Park and St Albans football club moves were consistent with the considerations of the club transfer process, being the geographic nature of the leagues, league viability, community development and future growth of the leagues concerned. Hinton said they would love both clubs to stay in the WRFL. “We view those teams as an important parts of the WRFL,” he said. “We felt like we owe it to the clubs and ourselves to take every opportunity we can to restate our position. “We think they are obviously WRFL clubs and the future is with us. We’re following the process laid out for us and hopefully get the outcome it deserves.” New Deer Park coach Heath Scotland said the club wanted to challenge themselves in a new competition, while St Albans vice-president Bekim Muhtari said it was a new beginning for the club.

Winning start to the Bulldogs’ division 2 season Footscray United has continued the momentum into this Victorian Turf Cricket Association division 2 season. After winning the division 3 title last season, the Bulldogs have won all three of their matches this season in the higher division. Captain-coach Shafraz Mohamed said he wasn’t surprised at all to see the side start the way they have. “The boys have continued the streak from last season,” he said. “Especially with the addition of Darren Ganga, it helps everyone else take their games to the next level. “We were confident in our team. We had a team last year that was capable in the division above. “The longer we played together the better we played with each other and strengthened our team.” Mohamed said the addition of Ganga, a

Shivnarine Chanderpaul came and watched Footscray United. (Supplied)

former West Indies international star, had been massive on and off the field. While his experience has been invaluable on field, former West Indies team mate Shivnarine Chanderpaul had come to watch the side. “The way he approached the game, he bats five balls ahead which is what they do in test

cricket,” he said. “It’s good to pick his brain the way he approached the game and he mentors me as a game. Chanderpaul has been and watched. It pumps the boys up and they want to play their A-game.” Mohamed said the key for the side so far had been that while there had been no standard out performances, that everyone was playing the role needed off them. He said they had a simple game plan and it seemed to work. “Our top order has not found form yet,” he said. “We have three or four heavy hitting batsmen which we want to bat for 20 to 30 balls, for four to five overs and everyone bats around them and gets a total. “With our bowling attack we’re confident. We bowl a lot of spin and we have all the different varieties we need in our bowling attack.

“We bowl to a plan and think we can defend any score.” On Saturday, the Bulldogs accounted for the Altona Roosters. Footscray United were bowled out for 174 in the final over. Chathura Milan top scored with 61. The Roosters were bowled out for 109, with Lahiru Kumara taking three wickets. The Bulldogs are the only undefeated team after three rounds. Mohamed is confident that they can keep going. “If we can avoid injuries and everyone stays fit, we’re confident we can go all the way.” In other results, West Newport lost to St Andrews Pascoe Vale, while Newport-Digman was too strong for Kingsville and Williamstown CYMS lost to Royal Park-Brunswick. Tara Murray

Sports shorts VTCA Yarraville Club made it two in row in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association senior division on Saturday against St Albans. The Clubbers made 8-186 with Trent Lawford top scoring with 48. They then restricted the Saints to 8-149 from their 50 overs, sharing the wickets around. The Druids got their first win of the season, beating Deer Park. The Druids made 7-183 before bowling Deer Park out for 77.

VTCA Women’s cricketers in the Victorian Turf and North West Metropolitan cricket associations were left on the sidelines. Both competitions were meant to be in action on Sunday, but heavy rain overnight meant grounds were left waterlogged and there was no choice but to call off matches. Some sides, including Williamstown CYMS and Altona Roosters are yet to play at all this VTCA season, while two rounds of the NWMCA have been played.

AFLW Academy Spotswood’s Taylor Tatterson.

(Joe Mastroianni). 308995

Woodsmen defy the wet By Tara Murray Spotswood was the big winner as rain affected a big weekend of play in the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association east-west. Just four teams managed to get results from both one-day matches on the weekend, with the Woodsmen claiming two victories to take them to the top of the table. Woodsmen coach Dan Schuppan said while they’re in a good position so far, they weren’t getting ahead of themselves. “It was a great weekend for us to get two wins,” he said. “From my memory, last season at about the same stage we had a double header and we lost on the Saturday and then won on the Sunday. “It was good to get on Saturday and Sunday and come away with the wins. It puts us on top of the ladder, but we were second at Christmas last year and fell away. We’re taking it one week at a time.” The Woodsmen faced Taylors Lakes on Saturday, followed by Melton the following day. While both sides struggled last season, Schuppan said both had improved massively

and couldn’t be taken easily. He said with the wet weather around, it was a case of winning ugly and that was exactly what they did. On Saturday, the Woodsmen made 8-169 from their overs. Schuppan said they left a few runs out there. “We were on and off a bit,” he said. “We got off to a great opening partnership and then Taylor Tatterson and Jakson Knight showed their class with a valuable partnership. “We fell away a little bit after looking at 200. We were wanting 180 minimum and we didn’t get that so we were disappointed to get 170.” Knight top scored with 47. The Lions started well and at 1-67 were on track in the run chase. A couple of quick wickets, including the run out of Sri Lankan international Oshada Fernando turned the game back in the favour of the Woodsmen. The Lions were bowled out for 133. “We were able to get a couple of new guys to the crease,” Schuppan said. “We were able to get quick key wickets which was the difference.” Despite more rain about on Sunday and

many other matches called off, Schuppan said they were always confident of getting the game in against Melton. The Lions were bowled out for 108, before the Woodsmen finished 6-111. Schuppan said it was a game that showed how far they had grown since last season. “I wouldn’t say it was convincing with Melton getting a few quick wickets in our innings,” he said. “We speak about growth all the time. Mac Short missed a couple of games with an ankle injury. He scored 26 not out, which might not seem much, but it was a real tick for us and we’re heading in the right direction.” The Woodsmen this week face a star-studded Endeavour Hills side. Schuppan said they were keen to test themselves against a side which has three former test players. “I’m nearly 37 and really looking forward to the challenge of being able to play against these guys,” he said. “Jackson Wadden is 17 and one of the brightest talents in the competition and gets to test himself out against these sorts of players. It’s really exciting.”

Western Jets duo Kiera Whiley and Kristie-Lee Weston-Turner have been named in the AFLW Academy for next year. The AFL and AFLW academy squads each feature 30 players and include a selection of the most talented 17-year-old footballers across the country. The players selected will be eligible in the 2023 drafts. Players will participate in high performance and personal development programs throughout the 2023 season. Whiley, comes from Caroline Springs and Weston-Turner, won the Western Region Football League under-18 best and fairest, playing with Spotswood.

Baseball Newport Rams suffered a close loss in the Baseball Victoria summer league division 2 on Saturday. The Rams, who were sitting on top of the table entering the round, lost to Port Melbourne, 1-0. Williamstown Wolves match with Fitzroy ended in a 0-0 draw after the wet weather meant the game couldn’t go ahead. FOR MORE SPORT, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Maribyrnong & Hobsons Bay Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Wednesday, 23 November, 2022 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 19

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12578729-AV47-22

No one’s better in the bedroom™

Hoppers Crossing

Waurn Ponds

Highpoint Homemaker City Shop 14, 179 Rosamond Rd, Maribyrnong | VIC | 3032

Harvey Norman Centre 201-219 Old Geelong Rd Hoppers Crossing | VIC | 3030

Highpoint Homemaker City Shop 2A, 213 Colac Rd, Waurn Ponds | VIC | 3216

P: 9317 3122

P: 9749 3299

P: 5241 7440

Sale prices available until 16th October 2022 or while stocks last.