Issuu

Established in 1902 as the

proudly serving Wyndham

8 FEBRUARY, 2023

12496404-AV22-21

FREE DIGITAL EDITION

SIG N U P N O W!

Discover meditation Ananya Tomar’s ultimate goal as a meditation teacher is to create an uplifting atmosphere. Starting February 25, Ms Tomar will host free Raja yoga meditation sessions for Wyndham residents. Ms Tomar said her personal aim is that one person understands and starts practicing meditation. “Meditation is like a big discovery,” she said. “I was spending my life really exhausted by changing things outside, changing my health outside and my finances, and it was like a big reveal, all the change happened from within. “I train them to think positive, and think empowering first, while opening their eyes. It’s a very practical transformation that we teach.” Ms Tomar, who works in the environmental sciences and sustainability sector, says the Zoom classes are designed so that anyone can join, whether they’re at the office or at home with their kids shouting. “You can do this anywhere, any time, that’s the whole idea,” she said. “It’s not difficult, everyone can do it, doesn’t matter your background, Muslim, Jewish and Christians [join the classes].” The sessions will be held on Saturday and Sunday from 6.30-8pm. Details: pointcook@au.brahmakumaris.org Meditation teacher and practitioner Ananya Tomar.

(Damjan Janevski) 316777_05

Housing stress worsens who may have lost their husband and are suddenly having to survive on one income,“ he said. The western suburbs have an unmet housing need of 20,200, the estimated number of households that were not living in appropriate housing on census night in 2021, according to the University of New South Wales. The figure represents western suburbs residents who were either experiencing homelessness, living in severely overcrowded

Our aim is to take the stress and

homes, or spending over 30 per cent of their income on rent. Mr Liversage said many private rental tenants were also facing pressures by landlords wanting to sell. “If they’re not having to leave their property, tenants are regularly being hit with rent increases of up to $20 or $30 a week,“ he said. “The average weekly rent for a three-bedroom property in Wyndham is around $360, but there’s no way somebody on

Jobseeker or Youth Allowance can afford that, so they’ll often go into share accommodation, younger people will couch surf with friends or they’ll sleep rough. “An average family in this area will apply for between 30 to 50 properties and if you’re unemployed, on income support or if you have a big family, you’ll struggle to compete with the couple on a double income or the single person with a stable job. “It gets to the stage, where some people are so disheartened they start to disengage.“

confusion out of vehicle

S IR A P E R & S T N E ACCID EX

CESS REDUCTION UP TO $1000

PICK UP & DROP OFF SERVICE

AVAILABLE

V A C C R E P A IR E R

CALL US NOW 03 9394 1350 1/30 PETERPAUL WAY TRUGANINA www.collisionconcierge.com.au

12563854-DL34-22

A growing housing shortage is making it more challenging for Wyndham resident to find secure housing, according to a homelessness support worker. Uniting Vic.Tas homelessness senior manager western Adam Liversage said as rental prices continue to increase, housing is becoming out of reach for a growing number of people. “We’re seeing more older people, 65 and over, coming to us for housing assistance. It’s mainly singles, especially single women,

SECTION STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Now Open! + GP Veterinary Services + Emergency Care + Specialist Referrals + Teaching Hospital Book online for GP veterinary appointments or for emergency consults, please call. 03 8721 1414 250 Princes Hwy, Werribee VIC 3030

greencrossvets.com.au/vets/greencrossvethospital

Scan to learn more

Greencross provides embedded clinical teaching and placement opportunities for University of Melbourne Doctor of Veterinary Medicine students.

12586442-AV05-23

2 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 8 February, 2023

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

NEWS

Help plan for a new Woodville Wyndham council is seeking community input to help shape Woodville, Hoppers Crossing, into a 20-minute neighbourhood. Council said the Woodville neighbourhood activity centre is one of the oldest in Wyndham and consists of a shopping centre, two schools, open spaces, recreation facilities and a kindergarten. Wyndham mayor Susan McIntyre said the project will involve looking for ways to make Woodville a better place to live and work. “We will aim to offer high-quality public open spaces, provide services and

destinations that support locals, while also facilitating access to quality public transport that connects people to jobs and services,” she said. “That may be by improving the movement network, enhancing public spaces, or supporting the local economy.” “The plan will be developed based on community feedback so we encourage the community to participate.” The ideas shared with council will be used to create a place plan that aims to enhance Woodville as a neighbourhood that can provide for most daily needs within

20 minutes of home, with access to local transport options, shops, workplaces, and recreation. Wyndham’s city design portfolio holder, Cr Josh Gilligan, said it was important to keep updating neighbourhoods to make them relevant to the needs of the current community. “Woodville was designed along the principles of the late 1970s and 1980s,” Cr Gilligan said. “We’re looking to enhance Woodville utilising today’s more advanced understanding of place making and 20-minute neighbourhoods. “We’re also interested in understanding

the community’s support of housing and population densities that would increase the vibrancy of Woodville, support local businesses and provide the community with an increased range of housing choice.” Residents can find out more by visiting a drop-in session at Woodville Park Shopping Centre on Wednesday, February 15, from 3-5pm, or Saturday, February 18, from 10am-noon, or providing feedback on The Loop by March 5. Details: theloop.wyndham.vic.gov.au/helpwoodville-thrive

Bring a plate to share To welcome back old members and welcome new attendees, Eat My Garden and The Werribee River Association will host a free community barbecue, with live music and kid’s activities. Point Cook resident and Eat My Garden founder Miwako Okumura said the event is the first for the group since COVID restrictions lifted. “We started it several years ago and it started as a small event in the neighbourhood and we made a small garden in an open space with permission from council,” she said. “The purpose of this is to provide a venue to meet, and to develop friendship and it also provides ideas for sustainable living and an opportunity to learn about gardening from each other.”Ms Okumura says anyone can come and take some herbs or vegetables from the group’s garden, and encourages residents to attend the event. “We are having barbecue options for non vegetarian, vegetarians, and vegan people,”

she said. “People can bring something to share and we will be setting up a sharing table there. “I hope come and see what we’re doing so in the future we’d like to improve the space and hopefully add in more garden beds to share with the community.” The barbecue will be held at the Eat My Garden Community Garden, corner of Hollington Crescent and Dakota Place, Point Cook on Sunday, February 19, from 1pm. Details: jess.fairfax@werribeeriver.org.au

Event organisers Miwako Okumura (front), Sri Ram Kumar, Sudha Narayan, Esther Low and Mark Low. (Damjan Janevski) 317843_03

A smaller home, with a big heart. FROM

$345K GREAT PRICE!

News headline in here 30pt

Freecall: 1800 645 264

Apartment living in Point Cook. Call Michael to inspect the apartments, experience the welcoming community and discover all there is on offer. “Living in Point Cook Village was not something I had planned for myself, but it is the best move I have ever made.” Point Cook Resident

BY RCA VILLAGES

pointcookvillage.com.au 320 Point Cook Road, Point Cook

For more information about our range of retirement communities visit: rcavillages.com.au 12589012-MS06-23

Wednesday, 8 February, 2023 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY 3

NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

‘Exciting’ performances coming Wyndham council has announced the launch of the first three shows of this year’s Wyndham Cultural Centre program. Creative city portfolio holder, councillor Marcel Mahfoud, said the Cultural Centre program has something for everyone and has an exciting mix of performance, music and comedy. “Kicking off the 2023 Wyndham Cultural Centre program with the Air Force Big Band to coincide with the Australian International Air Show, also known as the Avalon Air Show will be a fabulous way to start the year,” he said.

“For musical enthusiasts that love a big ensemble, the Air Force Big Band, with guests US Air Force Pacific Band, will hit the spot. Playing two performances on Tuesday 28 February, this collective of talented musicians will have you moving and crooning along.” The Air Force Big Band is the Royal Australian Air Force’s 17-piece sing and jazz ensemble and has a strong military heritage from the ‘Swing’ era of the 1940s. “The entertaining Garry Starr Performs Everything on Saturday 11 March, at 7.30pm.

Audiences will be delighted as Garry takes them on a vivid journey from start to finish in this feel-good show,” Cr Mahfoud said. Developed as a comedic solo act, Garry Starr is the alter-ego of Australian and British actor and comedian Damien Warren-Smith. “To coincide with International Women’s Day on Saturday 25 March, the iconic show I am Woman will be a fabulous way to show your support and be taken on a historical journey. Through history, heart, and hilarity, this show brings incredible women - and their

music - out of the sidelines and into their rightful place in Aussie music history.” Cr Mahfoud said. Join award-winning cabaret powerhouses Amelia Ryan and Libby O’Donovan, in a celebration of songs and stories from 1960s Australia. “Come and experience one of these entertaining shows. Be sure to book your tickets to one of these amazing shows before they sell out,” he said. Details: www.wyncc.com.au/

Active open space boost

Hobsons Bay author Alison Stuart.

(Damjan Janevski) 315732_01

Bringing history to life one last time Western suburbs author Alison Stuart is returning to the fictional town of Maiden’s Creek for one last time. Her third book in the Maiden’s Creek series, titled ‘The Homecoming’, is now available in local bookstores, including Book and Paper in Williamstown. Based on the town of Walhalla and set in 1892, the book follows Charlie O’Reilly and her return to the town as acting matron of the local hospital. Stuart said her passion is writing historical fiction and incorporating romantic elements into the story.

“I believe the history is very important as part of the story,” she said. “I just think so much of the past dictates how we think today. “It puts us into context.” Stuart said the first book in the Maiden’s Creek series, titled ‘The Postmistress’, focuses on the smallpox epidemic, which echoed a number of the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. She said she approaches her characters by thinking about who would have been the key people within a small Australian town in the 1800s.

Stuart said ‘The Homecoming’ also features a murder mystery, inspired by her Harriet Gordon murder mystery series written under the pen name of A.M. Stuart. “I enjoy the puzzles of writing murder mysteries,” she said. Stuart said while she is bidding farewell to the Maiden’s Creek series, she is also planning for the next Harriet Gordon book to be the series’ last. “I’m looking forward to starting something new,” she said. Details: www.alisonstuart.com

Alcock Road Reserve has been transformed into an active open space following the completion of six new tennis courts, a sporting pavilion and upgraded cricket nets. Work is also complete on barbecue and picnic areas, landscaping and a car park as part of the next stage of the Truganina South-East Community Precinct Masterplan. Wyndham’s active city portfolio holder, councillor Peter Maynard, said he was thrilled with the progress made on the project to date. “Once complete, Alcock Road Reserve will provide Truganina families with access to sport and recreation facilities, meaning they can join a team, have a kick with friends, take their kids to the playground or go for a walk or run,” Cr Maynard said. “This reserve will be also able to host junior and senior levels of competition and training for local sporting associations, clubs and schools. “As the active city portfolio holder, I know how important it is for our residents to have these kinds of open spaces close to home, that’s why council is delivering this reserve at Truganina.” Wyndham council said it has also completed the construction of three soccer fields, which can also be used to create a cricket field, set to open to the public once the turf has been established early this year. The reserve sits adjacent to the newly-opened Koomail Tardy Community Centre, which provides kindergarten, maternal child health and a range of community programs, services and activities for Truganina residents. Details: https://digital.wyndham. vic.gov.au/capitalworks

More help for Wyndham residents to navigate aged care IPC Health will soon deliver an expanded service to help older people in Wyndham navigate the aged care system, thanks to receiving a tender through the North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network (NWMPHN) worth about $2.8 million. Service delivery is expected to have a limited start up in March and will be fully operational in April. IPC Health chief executive Jayne Nelson said the service will focus on connecting with people 65 years and older, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community members 50 years and older or those experiencing homelessness across the 4 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 8 February, 2023

western and outer western areas of Melbourne. “IPC Health, through providing a wide range of health and wellbeing services for 40-plus years and local community and health partnerships, is deeply embedded in western and outer western Melbourne and well known, non-stigmatising, trusted by and accessible to communities,” she said. “This funding will help us continue to assist older, diverse and vulnerable communities to navigate and access aged care. “We are looking forward to working with the North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network (NWMPHN) to

provide service navigation tailored to the needs of local populations in Brimbank, Maribyrnong, Hobsons Bay, Melton, Moorabool and Wyndham local government areas, including culturally and linguistically diverse communities, people with disability, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.” IPC Health will expand, deliver and maintain a partner network to provide face-to-face specialist and intensive assistance, through assertive outreach and engagement strategies, to support and assist people within our target populations

understand and access aged care services and connect with other relevant supports in the community, including My Aged Care. IPC Health is currently recruiting staff for this service. The new service follows on from recommendations from the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety, which called for a dedicated workforce to assist people who require intensive support to navigate and access aged care services and supports through the My Aged Care system. Matthew Sims

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

NEWS

Wyndham parks undergo refresh Five Wyndham parks have received a series of improvements, with Wyndham council announcing further upgrades to come. Wyndham council said it is making great progress on its $1.65 million parks asset renewal program, an annual program that transforms ageing parks into new and improved spaces that better meet the community’s needs. New playgrounds have been installed at Burgundy Drive Reserve in Wyndham Vale ,Nangiloc Crescent Reserve in Werribee and Featherbrook Kindergarten in Point Cook.

Additional playground elements and nature play have been included at Tarneit’s Bruny Drive Reserve, and a new playground and bike track can now be found at Bowery Court Reserve in Werribee. Work is also currently under way on playground upgrades at Aitken Avenue Reserve in Hoppers Crossing and at Iramoo, Vista Way and Alamanda kindergartens, with construction on all four projects expected to be complete in coming weeks. New playground equipment will be installed at Werribee’s Conquest Drive Reserve in

March, while Wyndham council is also currently engaging with the community on the design of an upgrade at Aquarius Drive Park in Truganina. Wyndham’s active city portfolio holder, councillor Peter Maynard, said the upgrades were tailored to each park to make them more accessible, safer, comfortable and welcoming to everyone. “We know our parks and open spaces play an important role in getting Wyndham families out of the house, enjoying nature and being active,” Cr Maynard said.

“The reserves selected for upgrades in this year’s program were constructed a number of years ago and needed a spruce up to improve the condition, accessibility and functionality for the community. “These important works will breathe new life into 11 of our local parks, creating beautiful open spaces that the whole family can enjoy, close to home.” Details: https://digital.wyndham.vic.gov.au/ capitalworks

Colourful celebration The Holi Festival of Colours will be brighter and bigger than ever when it returns to Penrose Promenade Park in Tarneit. Event organiser Pradeep Tiwari said this is the fifth year the festival will be held, all people are welcome to attend and enjoy colour throwing, rides, market stalls Bollywood dance performers and multicultural performances. “We have a mixture of paid and free activities,” Mr Tiwari said. “We want to make sure the community enjoys it, they come out every year and grow it, they teach others, and we bring other cultures in to celebrate with us, that’s been my motive.” Mr Tiwari said when he initially began organising the festivals, free events had been unheard of, and the organisers were committed to ensuring all families with different income levels would be able to participate.

“If you’re [going to] charge $10 a ride, and a family comes in with four kids, that’s $40 even before they’ve had a meal,” he said. “We trying to make it fair for everyone and affordable, so anyone can come in and have a good time.” The event will be held on Saturday, February 18, from noon-9pm. A fireworks display will take place at 9pm. Free parking will be provided and while entry is free, bookings are necessary. Details: https://bit.ly/3X0H9W8

Asha, 3, Tanisha, 2, Pushkal,10, Srividhya Ashok, and Jatin, 8, preparing for the upcoming festival. (Damjan Janevski) 316798_05

One Day Only this coming Wednesday 11am to 3pm – Werribee RSL (15th February 2023) Phone: 0481 290 411

12587750-MS06-23

Wednesday, 8 February, 2023 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY 5

NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU Briefs

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Ruff day Police dog Hunter and his handler have assisted in the arrest of a motorcyclist, after he ran from police in Werribee. As police tried to intercept the rider in Pigeon Street, the rider allegedly sped off, it is alleged the rider attemped to mount a gutter into the reserve before he fell off the bike and ran. Hunter and his handler assisted in the search and found the rider hiding in bushes in the front yard of a home in Hakea Court. A 43-year-old man was arrested.

PHONE \ 03 8318 5777 LOCATION \ Corner Thomsons Road and Keilor Park Drive, Keilor Park, 3042 DISTRIBUTION \ 1300 656 678 distribution@fermax.com.au

ADVERTISING GENERAL SALES INQUIRIES westads@starweekly.com.au CLASSIFIEDS \ 1300 666 808 EMAIL \ sales@networkclassifieds.com.au

Man arrested GENERAL REAL ESTATE INQUIRIES reads@starweekly.com.au

EDITORIAL

Councillor Robert Szatkowski.

GENERAL EDITORIAL INQUIRIES westeditorial@starweekly.com.au

Campaign to bin butts

COMMUNITY CALENDAR ENTRIES communitycalendar@starweekly.com.au

Published by MMP Star Pty Ltd ACN 168 220 399 Head Office Corner Thomsons Road and Keilor Park Drive, Keilor Park, 3042 Publisher/Managing Director, Paul Thomas All material is copyright to MMP Star Pty Ltd. Responsibility for election comment is accepted by Paul Thomas. All significant errors will be corrected as quickly as possible. Distribution numbers, areas and coverage are estimates only. For our terms and conditions please visit starweekly.com.au

(Damjan Janevski) 318095_02

Wyndham smokers are being urged to ‘Ditch the Flick’ in a new campaign to bin cigarette butts in an effort to prevent them from ending up as litter on the ground or entering waterways waterways. Wyndham council said a new campaign is already being promoted at Station Place in Werribee and new cigarette butt bins have been installed at cigarette butt hotspots with clear directional signage. Wyndham climate futures and environment portfolio holder, councillor Robert Szatkowski, said the initiative was just one of many that council had put in place to encourage residents not to litter or dump rubbish. “We all have a responsibility to keep our city clean and tidy and I encourage all our residents and visitors to help keep our city

clean by using bins instead of littering,” Cr Szatkowski said. Wyndham council say they are the first local government in Melbourne to start implementing the ‘Ditch the Flick’ campaign in response to the previous research. A four year collaboration with eight other councils involved the installation of drain traps to identify what was being washed into the stormwater system and Port Phillip Bay. Cigarette butts were identified as the number one littered item entering the waterways. Wyndham mayor Susan McIntyre said she was proud to see Wyndham take the lead to keep our waterways and neighbourhoods clean. “We take pride in keeping our city tidy and contributing to looking after our environment,” she said.

Police arrested a man following an affray at a property on Davis Road, Tarneit, on January 28. A 33-year-old Melton man was arrested and interviewed before being released pending further inquiries. Police are continuing their investigation and urge anyone with mobile phone vision of the incident to contact Crime Stoppers.

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

Tyre & Auto Service • BRIDGESTONE • FIRESTONE • SUPERCAT • POTENZA • TURANZA • ECOPIA • DUELER • DAYTON

DEALER LOGBOOK SERVICE Minor Dealership Logbook Service

From only $229.00. Includes: Replacement of engine oil filter and semi synthetic engine oil up to 7 litres Inspect and top up fluid levels • Check headlamp and light operation Inspect drive belts and cooling system, hoses etc • Remove wheels and inspect brake and suspension components • Stamp warranty booklet if applicable. $229.00 - Suits most Japanese vehicles $269.00 - Vehicles requiring full synthetic engine oils, Ie, Fiesta, Mondeo and some late model Japanese vehicles $349.00 - European Vehicles - Some earlier models Diesel Service Most Japanese 4WD & Commercial Vans $449.00 - European - Mid luxury/prestige vehicles. Note: Some 4WD, luxury, prestige and sports models vehicles may incur an extra cost Price on application.

PROFESSIONAL VEHICLE SERVICING & REPAIRS, WITH HONESTY & INTEGRITY

• Fixed Price Servicing • Mechanical Repairs • Brakes • Clutch Repairs • Fleet Maintenance • Automatic Transmission

MONTHS INTEREST

FREE *

No Deposit No Interest No repayments for 6 months

• Wheel Balancing • Wheel Alignments • Batteries • Licensed Vehicle Tester • RWC LVT License no: EX 6187

We use and recommend Valvoline Motor Oils & Ryco Filters

*Conditions Apply

HOPPERS CROSSING

ST ALBANS

3/308–322 Old Geelong Rd 9369 0500

29 St Albans Rd 9364 3244

‘Offers apply on purchases made in participating stores between 01/02/2023 and 28/02/2023. Terms and conditions apply. Tyre images are for illustration purposes only. See bridgestone.com.au for details. 6 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 8 February, 2023

12581808-AI06-23

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Blood-y good donation By Fatima Halloum When Graham Becker donated blood for the 300th time, he was challenged by a nurse to keep going. The Western Suburbs resident was told he has “great veins” and should easily be able to reach 1000. “I said, ‘alright, I’ll see what I can do’,” he said. In late January, Mr Becker made a “milestone donation” and donated for the 600th time. “I’m in my 42nd year of donating, I have helped save 1800 lives so far,” he said. Mr Becker began donating in the 1980s and is adamant the process is not as painful as some believe. “When I first got my drivers licence I ticked the box to become an organ donor, and I figured I’m donating my organs, what else can I donate?,” he said. “I gave blood for the first seventeen years and because I’ve got such good veins, the nurses switched me over to platelet. You got to see the patients in the oncology first hand so that was a bit of motivation to keep going, and then they switched me over to plasma. “Now I give blood, plasma, platelet, and I’m on the bone marrow registry as well Mr Becker says he classes his actions as “community service” but says the heartfelt thanks he receives in return is welcome. “I’ve had certain times when the blood bank would issue out a video, letting you know your blood might have gone to this patient, like a 16-year-old leukaemia from Queensland,” “You’re a part of that girl surviving. “I’m just doing my bit for the community.” Mr Becker shares his contributions on social media, and hopes other people can be inspired to donate too.

“I always say on my posts, roll up your sleeves, come on down and join,” he said. “Everyone is precious.”

Graham Becker has donated blood 600 times.

NEWS

More plastic storage sites The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has uncovered four additional warehouses in the north-west stockpiling soft plastics. The new sites identified in the north-west include a warehouse in Truganina storing 80 tonnes of soft plastic. The EPA said officers have already issued an improvement notice on the new Truganina site, demanding better emergency access and a reduction in the stockpile. The discovery is part of the EPA’s investigation into the REDcycle program which to date has uncovered 14 sites. EPA chief executive Lee Miezis said the discovery of the new sites showed EPA’s determination to prevent risk in the community and environment from pollution and waste. ‘’Our officers are determined to keep the community and environment safe. We are following up all new leads to find these sites,” he said. “If not stored safely, soft plastics can pose a fire risk. Businesses need to manage this risk using controls such as built-in fire suppression systems, storage size limits and minimum separation distances between stockpiles.” EPA’s earlier investigations located warehouses in West Footscray, Truganina, Williamstown North, Campbellfield, Tullamarine, Dandenong South, West Wodonga, Craigieburn, and two in Tottenham.

(Damjan Janevski) 317914_01

CHERRY CREEK YOUTH JUSTICE PRECINCT

CAREER PATHWAYS THAT LEAD TO A SAFER COMMUNITY Create change from the inside out Working in Youth Justice allows you to make a positive impact on the lives of young people in custody. And with full training, good pay and a supportive team around you, it could change your life too.

RECRUITING NOW

FSA/DJCS0001-06

Find out more at justice.vic.gov.au/youthjusticecareers

12573019-JC42-22

Wednesday, 8 February, 2023 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY 7

NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Green cover hits a national low Wyndham has the lowest recorded level of green cover in the country with a low 5.4 per cent, according to a recent study. Compiled by Greener Spaces, Better Places, the report defines green cover as the amount of trees, typically over three metres, and shrubs, typically under three metres. The study found that over the next decade, Wyndham will face ‘high’ challenges to maintain or grow green cover. Werribee River Association’s John Forrester said the municipality needed more trees “all

over the place”. “What we really need are better green spaces with trees on them,” Mr Forrester said. “Of the existing parks, the existing waterways in particular, and all the existing lawn and grass reserves need to be treed up. “We need lovely trees that put shade out over pathways, that stop blowing litter into our water way.” According to the report, the large areas of grassland and agricultural land in Wyndham can limit opportunities for urban greening.

Other factors can also influence tree coverage, including places with limited rainfall, cities with higher population growth, high bush-fire risk areas, and places with lower levels of community disadvantage tend can have more resources to fund green cover projects. The report suggested that living in a place with green cover can make people happier, smarter, more productive and sleep better. “Human beings need them as well because our houses heat up, and common design

practices that allow houses to be built with dark roofs, we’re just punishing ourselves in summer with the heat that’s absorbed into our buildings,” Mr Forrester said. A study conducted by The University of New South Wales found green space reduces risk of cardiovascular disease through the promotion of physical activity, reducing stress, and air pollution. Melton had the second lowest level of green cover, followed by Maribyrnong, Hobsons Bay and Hume.

Rotary’s charity reach Werribee Rotary Club has completed a classroom equipment project at the Bahay Ni San Jose Orphanage in the Philippines. An eight-classroom building at the orphanage, completed in 2022, is for children from kindergarten to grade 6 and was built entirely by companies donating materials and labour and with money donated by friends and supporters. Werribee Rotary Club assisted with purchasing essential classroom equipment by providing $15,000 for the project, raising $10,000 and obtaining a $5000 Rotary Foundation Overseas Grant. Cub president Ian Hovey said the project was made in collaboration with Cabanatuan City Rotary Club. “The friendship between our two clubs has been cemented formally, by us joining together as sister clubs. In the future our two clubs may have an opportunity to work together on another project in the Philippines.” The children housed at the orphanage come

from troubled homes, have been abandoned or have mild physical, mental or hearing disabilities. The orphanage is home to 52 children up to the age of 13 years. Details: www.werribeerotary.org.au

Cabanatuan Rotary’s Rik Vilda and Werribee Rotary Ian Hovey. (Michael Redding)

Plan ahead for summer works From Wednesday 11 January to Monday 27 February 2023

This summer, crews are completing a series of works across the West Gate Tunnel Project that affects how you’ll move to and from the city. There are 24/7 lane, road and ramp closures in place across the network. These works are part of delivering a vital alternative to the West Gate Bridge.

Locations • Footscray Road (continues to June) • West Gate Freeway lanes • Williamstown Road outbound entry ramp • Williamstown Road interchange • Hyde Street, Douglas Parade and Simcock Avenue

We understand that these closures are disruptive and thank you for your ongoing patience as we work as quickly and safely as possible to get the job done. Major delays are expected—please plan ahead. Please note there may be other works happening across the network during this time. Visit bigbuild.vic.gov.au for more information. Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne 12581457-DL02-23

8 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 8 February, 2023

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

NEWS

We’re building big near you and there will be transport disruptions (Damjan Janevski) 318080_02

Station offers diverse picture A new collection of portraits are hoped to enhance the entrance at Werribee’s Station Place. Wyndham council announced the three category winners of the Way Out West 2022 competition will be featured at the station entrance. “The Way Out West Station Place Photography Installation showcases a collection of six photographs featuring portraits of local people from Wyndham and is a wonderful celebration of diversity,” Wyndham’s creative city portfolio holder, councillor Marcel Mahfoud, said. “This series of portraits by young photographers from the community represents the many rich, diverse cultural backgrounds of Wyndham’s people, with photos selected from the 2022 Way Out

West Youth Photography competition held in 2022.” Way Out West is an annual photography competition and traveling exhibition hosted by council, that is open to local young people who live, work, study or spend time in Wyndham. Council said these photographs are of people from the community, and were chosen to reflect the life and surroundings of Wyndham’s young people through the lenses of their own cameras. “Installed in the entrance at Werribee’s Station Place, it creates a stunning visual backdrop and will be on display until the end of 2023,” Cr Marfoud said. These photographic works are by Ipsa Chatterjee, Jade Jones, Lucinda Tabart, Mikhaell, Naomi Kiyaga, and Simone Sardana.

As part of Victoria’s Big Build, we’re building the Metro Tunnel and widening the West Gate Freeway. Train disruptions: Buses replace trains in both directions Williamstown Line

8.05pm 8 Feb to last train 9 Feb 8.30pm 10 Feb to last train 12 Feb

North Melbourne to Williamstown

Werribee Line

8pm to last train, 8 Feb and 12 Feb

North Melbourne to Werribee

8.30pm to last train, 9 Feb 8.30pm 10 Feb to 8pm 12 Feb

North Melbourne to Newport

Road disruptions: Closed roads, lanes and ramps West Gate Fwy

Until 5am 27 Feb

One outbound lane at Williamstown Rd

Williamstown Rd

Until 5am 27 Feb

Outbound entry ramp to the West Gate Fwy

Footscray Rd, West Melbourne

Until early Apr

Eastbound from Dock Link Rd to Appleton Dock Rd

Check before you travel at bigbuild.vic.gov.au

Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne

2216

Marcel Mahfoud at Station Place.

12581435-JC06-23

STUDY PHOTOGRAPHY OR PAINTING & DRAWING PHOTOGRAPHY + PAINTING & DRAWING COURSES ARE DELIVERED FROM THE CUA31120 CERTIFICATE III IN VISUAL ARTS

3 HOURS ONCE A WEEK STARTING LATE FEB AVAILABLE IN WERRIBEE @ OUR WEDGE ST CAMPUS SUITABLE FOR HOBBYIST OR PROFESSIONAL OUTCOMES GOVERNMENT FUNDING AVAILABLE FOR ELIGIBLE APPLICANTS

CONTACT: INFO@OXYGENCOLLEGE.COM.AU/1300195303

TOID 22407

12583365-DL03-23

Wednesday, 8 February, 2023 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY 9

NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Jordan, 5, Julian, 6, and Srinika, 5.

Shameel. 318081_03 (Damjan Janevski)

Srinika, 5, and Ashika, 5.

Preps enjoy first day of school A nervous excitement buzzed through various schools in the municipality on Friday, February 5, as Al-Taqwa College’s and Good News Lutheran College’s littlest pupils officially began their educational journeys.

Alisha, 4.

Siyanah. 318081_02 (Damjan Janevski)

Noah, Mohammed, Issa, Minnah and Falaq. 318081_05

(Damjan Janevski)

Nusaibah. 318081_04

(Damjan Janevski)

12587798-SN06-23

10 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 8 February, 2023

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

NEWS

Learning strategy input wanted Wyndham council is calling for the community’s thoughts and ideas to develop the next Learning Community Strategy that will lead the municipality’s learning goals from 2024-2029. The current Learning Community Strategy has seven areas of focus, including literacy, numeracy, digital skills, civics, employability and leadership, which subsequently guide the programs, activities and events that support learning in Wyndham. The community is invited to share their thoughts as to whether these focus areas

should continue to be included in the next strategy. Wyndham mayor Susan McIntyre said learning is fundamental to the wellbeing, prosperity and sense of belonging of all people. “We are continually learning across all stages in life from children in early learning centres to retirees taking a Tai Chi class – this keeps us vibrant, alive and connected as a community,” she said. “Wyndham city has established a strong foundation for lifelong learning within the

community since the creation of its first Learning Community Strategy in 2010, which has been continuously updated.” Wyndham’s learning city portfolio holder, councillor Jasmine Hill, said the Strategy has been used as the basis to advocate, facilitate, explore, initiate and deliver on learning goals for Wyndham. “During COVID ‘adaptability’ was key, as many programs that were delivered in person were switched to an online format,” she said. “We look forward to hearing from our community what other focus areas have helped

them as learners and recommendations to better meet their learning goals across all life stages.” Feedback is also sought to identify what the future priorities of learning should be in Wyndham City. For more information, to attend one of council’s consultations, and to take the survey visit The Loop by March 7. Details: https://theloop.wyndham.vic.gov. au/learning-communities-strategy

Trio’s weighty appeal Melissa Maxey didn’t expect to be able to deadlift 280 kilograms when she flew to the United States to compete in the Static Monsters World Championship Competition in October last year. “It was a surprise to me too,” she said. “But it was in the moment, the adrenaline.” The Werribee resident has since qualified for this year’s championship, and is hoping to crowdfund her way there. “We’re headed to the UK, for a worldwide strong man competition,” Ms Maxey said. The paediatric nurse turned powerlifter has so far secured eight world records and 26 Australian records, and is hoping to add to the wins this year. Also qualifying for the competition are Terence and Jess Xuereb, who can each deadlift 390kg and 220kg respectively. “The three of us qualified from Werribee and are hopefully heading over together,” Ms Maxey said.

The trio have set up a GoFundMe page in an effort to raise $10,000 to cover the costs of flights, accommodation and other expenses. “The support of the sport, and supporting us in the sport, and having the local community support us … is exciting, [makes us feel] proud, [and is] motivating,” she said. The Static Monsters world championships will be held from July 29-30. Details: https://bit.ly/3RDJe9h

Melissa Maxey, Terence, Jess Xuereb.

(Supplied)

EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY HELP SHAPE THE FUTURE OF WASTE IN WYNDHAM Wyndham City is seeking expressions of interest from local residents to fill seven voluntary positions on the Wyndham Refuse Disposal Facility and Waste Management Community Reference Group. This includes people from the community representing: Landowners adjacent to the RDF

•

A ratepayer association, advocacy or business group in Wyndham

•

A local environmental group

•

Other residents of Wyndham

As a member of the CRG, you will help shape the future of waste in Wyndham by providing invaluable community input into Council decision making about the current and future operation and environmental performance of the Wyndham Refuse Disposal Facility and waste collection services in Wyndham. The group currently meets six times a year at the Wyndham Civic Centre or online. Meetings are currently held on a Thursday from 4:30pm-7pm, with the first meeting in 2023 nominally on 16 March 2023. The future frequency and meeting day/ time will be discussed with the newly-formed group. Group membership is for a three-year term. For further information and to apply please visit www.wyndham.vic.gov.au Expressions of interest close at 5pm on Friday 10 February 2023. You may also be invited to attend a short informal interview.

From tap to toilet we’ve got you covered We make sure your water and wastewater services are reliable, affordable and secure for decades to come.

12587155-KG06-23

•

Every year we manage: litres of litres of billion litres of 6.3 billion recycled water 113 billion drinking water 108 wastewater

gww.com.au 12587835-MS04-23

For help in your language call TIS on 131 450 Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne Wednesday, 8 February, 2023 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY 11

COMMUNITY STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Reservoir shenanigans thrill Australia’s fastest Blown Alcohol Displacement (B.A.D.) racing boats descended on the Melton Reservoir over the weekend for a weekend of spectacular racing. Spectators could watch the action from the grandstands over February 3-5. Chris Pugsley took his boat, Shenanigans to the top sport for both the Jack Kavanagh Trophy and the Keith Harrison Unlimited, and Darryl Quinn took out the coveted Melton Gold Cup in his boat Bad Influence. Winners of the races will receive a trophy board and prize money of up to $6000. Melbourne Runabout and Speedboat Club vice commodore Chris Dynon said it was a “great weekend“. “A big thanks to Melton shire for all there ongoing support,“ he said.

Racers competed in circuits around the Melton Reservoir. (Jacob Pattison) 316628_01

Racers were competing for cash prizes of as much as $6000.

(Jacob Pattison)316628_11

The event was hosted by the Melbourne Runabout and Speedboat Club.

(Jacob Pattison) 316628_09

Urban grassfires can spread at 25km/h. Urban fringe grassﬁres move very quickly. You’ll want to leave, but don’t drive. The smoke is blinding and you can block roads for emergency vehicles. Grassﬁres aren’t known to spread into built-up areas, so just walk two streets back and check the VicEmergency app for warnings. If you already live more than two streets away, just stay safely inside.

Plan. Act. Survive. Go to emergency.vic.gov.au

Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne 12581219-JC06-22

12 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 8 February, 2023

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

The Melton Gold Cup is one of Australia’s biggest speed boat races. (Jacob Pattison)316628_13

Boats can reach speeds of over 200km/h

(Jacob Pattison)316628_04

COMMUNITY

A range of classes of boats competed in different races over the weekend. (Jacob Pattison)316628_06

The action went down over three days in the first weekend of February. (Jacob Pattison)316628_02

YOUR NEW CAREER ... starts here PRINT AND ONLINE SALES EXECUTIVE

REQUIRED

Star Weekly seeks an enthusiastic sales executive to work across our print, digital, social and online platforms. Star Weekly is an independently owned company which prides itself on its long history of community experience but also its investment in the future. The successful applicant will need to possess good people skills to enable them to meet with local businesses to sell solutions through our advertising platforms to help promote their business. Applicants will need their own reliable vehicle for which we will provide an allowance. The position is salaried, plus we offer an open ended commission scheme. Send your application letter and resume to: Advertising Sales Manager, Mandy Clark salescareers@starnewsgroup.com.au

12570945-JC40-22

Wednesday, 8 February, 2023 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY 13

COMMUNITY STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Jacob, 2, and Hayley.

Residents dressed in traditional clothing.

Malvina, Tsecoutanis, Tim Smiley and Ken Moss.

Liam, 6.

Lunar festival unites cultures Draped, colourful clothing pieces representing the various cultures that make up the municipality were on display at the Wyndham Multicultural Lunar Festival on Saturday, February 4. Attendees could grab a bite from the food trucks, participate in carnival games, or enjoy the immersive enriching performances displayed on stage.

Greta, 8, and Coby, 9.

Linda Lin, Fal and Tai.

Aarav, 7. 14 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 8 February, 2023

Florence Shinanduku, Onwareee and Carla.

(Pictures: Fatima Halloum)

Edgary, and Amelia, 5.

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

NEWS

Council is on track for net zero Wyndham council said it has saved more than half a million dollars in the 18 months since participating in the Victorian Energy Collaboration (VECO). The collaboration involved 51 Victorian councils which aimed to reduce energy bills and emissions by using renewable energy generated from wind farms in Victoria. Approximately 172,000 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions have been saved by councils in the first 12 months, which council said is equivalent to powering up to 35,000 homes or taking 66,000 cars off the road each year.

Wyndham mayor Susan McIntyre said the project supported council’s commitments under the Resilient Wyndham Strategy. “All the operations of Wyndham City that rely on electricity, are powered by 100 per cent renewable energy, including street lights, libraries, leisure centres and electric vehicles,” she said. “This is essential in achieving our goal of net zero council emissions by 2023.” Since entering into the VECO project, Wyndham council has saved on its electricity bills and reduced greenhouse gas emissions by

more than 15,000 tonnes. Council’s climate futures and environment portfolio holder, councillor Robert Szatkowski, said the project showed the value of collaboration in local government, given the financial and environmental savings of the project. “The renewable energy is being provided by two wind farms in Victoria — Dundonnell Wind Farm near Mortlake, which started exporting power to the grid in March 2020, and Murra Warra II Wind Farm near Horsham, which started exporting power in

February 2022,” he said. Council said the collective investment in Victorian renewables has delivered electricity that is 25 per cent cheaper over the first 12 months of the contract and the long-term contract with energy provider Red Energy will continue to protect councils from high wholesale prices in the coming years and help to increase the stability of the state’s energy system.

WYNovation impresses Business owners, entrepreneurs and innovators gathered at Encore Events Centre on Friday, February 3 to learn important skills from various experts. The WYNovation Summit event featured talks from Amanda Stevens, who spoke of the importance of future proofing your brand, Dr Louise Mahler who shared tips and tricks to help audience members overcome performance stress and emphasised the importance of open body language. Cancer researcher Tane Hunter and political economist and journalist Angus Hervey also provided professional insight and advice. Mayor Susan McIntyre wrote in a Facebook post that the event was informative and enjoyable, and she loved meeting local business owners. “The 2023 WYNovation Summit did not disappoint,” she said. “Exceptional keynote speakers … innovation displays and networking opportunities for our

local businesses. “Having a strong local economy is so crucial for our municipality.” The summit event kicked off the beginning of the annual WYNnovation festival, which seeks to provide the municipality’s business owners with an opportunity to learn from successful entrepreneurs, while also connecting with other businesses owners. Residents can also attend The Masterclass event on Thursday, February 16, to hear from coach Mark Dobson in his presentation titled ‘A Clear Execution Path For Scaling, Revenue and People Performance’. Details: https://bit.ly/3layfbt

Mayor Susan McIntyre and Imran Abul Kashem.

BACK IN STOCK - be quick!

Paddington Bear with boots, coat and suitcase Large plush toy 34cm

$89.

Paddington Bear with boots and jacket Medium plush toy 22cm

$39.00

All prices exclude delivery costs

Order now on aussietoysonline.com.au 12586305-FC03-23

Wednesday, 8 February, 2023 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY 15

BEHIND THE NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Walking the heritage high wire A group of West Footscray residents have questioned the value of Maribyrnong council placing interim heritage controls on their homes, despite many being unable to carry out basic repairs and having their market value slashed. Matthew Sims spoke with property owners about how a permanent heritage overlay would impact their dreams for the places they wish to call home.

est Footscray resident Arthur Richardson is a Vietnam War veteran who has been unable to work since 1996. Now, he said that due to Maribyrnong council’s planned amendment to implement an interim heritage overlay on his house, the projected market value of his Duke Street house according to a local real estate agent has dropped by up to $400,000 or about 18.4 per cent – from $1.85 to $1.9 million to $1.45 to $1.55 million. “Besides the mental fuss it’s caused, the financial loss is enormous,” Mr Richardson said. In September 2021, council endorsed the West Footscray Inter-war and Post-war Heritage Precinct Study 2021 for community consultation conducted across 1400 property owners in December 2021 and requested the planning minister provide authorisation to prepare and exhibit a planning scheme amendment to implement interim planning controls to protect the precincts in the study.

‘‘ ’’

They are ruling people’s lives - Arthur Richardson

The minister granted authorisation in November 2021, with interim controls then implemented on December 12, 2021. Under the interim heritage overlay controls, more than 900 affected property owners across eight precincts need a planning permit to demolish, alter or extend a building or construct a new building, with the intended aim to conserve and enhance the heritage value of the impacted properties. Maribyrnong council conducted public consultation of the permanent overlay from February 28 to April 7, 2022. After receiving 199 submission during this process, the council requested the planning minister to appoint an independent planning panel, with public hearings held in late November and December of last year. Mr Richardson said as Duke Street contained a mixture of inter-war, post-war austere and post war brick veneer houses, it should not be considered as part of any heritage overlay. “Our street should not be on it at all,” he said. “We are so far removed from the viewing public.” Mr Richardson said he was “disgusted” with the council’s decision and lack of proper consultation with the community. “They are ruling people’s lives.” Maribyrnong chief executive Celia Haddock said the controls are the result of 18 months of community engagement of the draft West Footscray Neighbourhood Plan, beginning in 2017. “A key theme that emerged in community feedback across this engagement focused on retention of existing neighbourhood character and the perceived lack of guidelines for heritage,” she said. “The interim overlay approved by the planning minister is designed to safeguard existing character while potential ongoing heritage protection is considered. “No decision on permanent heritage controls has been reached and the amendment is yet to be considered by council.” West Footscray resident Cameron Goodison said he and his wife bought their Wellington Street home with the hope to make it their dream home and add a third bedroom despite it having a number of issues, such as a leaky roof and floorboards in need of replacement or repair. “We are planning to have a family,” he said. Mr Goodison said he and his wife had been left “frustrated and angry” in the wake of 16 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 8 February, 2023

West Footscray residents have opposed Maribyrnong council’s decision to implement an interim heritage overlay on more than 900 properties across the suburb and push for a permanent heritage overlay. (Jacob Pattison) West Footscray resident Cameron Goodison and his wife bought their Wellington Street home shortly before the interim heritage overlay came into effect. (Damjan Janevski) 315719_04

The heritage overlay stretches across West Footscray, Footscray, Tottenham and Maidstone.

the decision to implement interim controls and push for a permanent heritage overlay with little to no direct consultation with homeowners. “We’ve contacted the councillors and had no response,” he said. “It would have been so easy to do consultation.” Mr Goodison and his wife have now had to move forward with renovation and extension plans six times more costly so as to not infringe with the heritage overlay controls, with any other work such as installing solar panels visible from the street or removing asbestos restricted. “To do any work, we need to get a planning permit,” he said. “I’m not sure it is all that safe.” Mr Goodison said he believed the majority of affected properties within the overlay were not of significant heritage value and required immediate repair work. “My personal opinion is they should have done a development overlay,” he said. “Almost none of these houses are intact. “To limit development on 20 per cent of the suburb is a crazy idea.” Maribyrnong council conducted a heritage review across 2000 and 2001 focusing on a number of properties and houses, but did not

A number of West Footscray residents have expressed their opposition to the heritage overlay, citing many impacted properties require repair work. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 315581

recommend any houses currently within the interim heritage overlay controls. Mr Goodison said with the influx of young families coming to the west on the back of large-scale projects such as the Metro Tunnel, the council should be looking at supporting development to support projected growth. “I think we’re sitting in one of the perfect spots for medium-density housing,” he said. Royal Historical Society of Victoria heritage committee deputy chair Ian Wight said the controls are still able to change further. “The community needs to understand that people have still had the full opportunity to object to the amendment and the council and the panel can recommend changes to the amendment in the light of these objections,” he said. “We have not yet heard from the panel and the council may make further changes before it goes to the minister for approval. “The interim control will lapse in favour of an amended permanent amendment.” Mr Wight said he believed the distribution of the heritage overlay in the amendment was “fairly selective”. “This is a difficult decision for councils,” he said. “This follows a standard procedure that has been applied in most municipalities across

Victoria to identify and document significant heritage places.” Mr Wight said his impression is that similar heritage overlays had delivered benefits to a number of areas, including heritage overlays in Brimbank and Wyndham. “Having had extensive experience assisting councils with heritage studies and implementation, I have found most residents in proposed heritage overlay areas have welcomed the introduction of the overlay for the benefits it brings,” he said. “There are now around 180,000 properties in Victoria covered by the heritage overlay, most of these in residential precincts.” The next step is for the independent planning panel to provide a report advising council and the planning minister, with the report expected early this year. Maribyrnong council must then consider the panel’s recommendations before deciding on the amendment and submit it to the planning minister for approval, with the whole process scheduled to conclude mid-2023. Details: www.maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/ amendmentc172 or www.change.org/p/ ma r iby r nong- c it y- c ou nc i l-v ic- delw p objection-to-proposed-heritage-overlays-inwest-footscray

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

NEWS

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

30 years ago

20 years ago

10 years ago

February 8, 1983 Punters had a free day at the races at Werribee last Thursday, following a sudden stopwork meeting of 90 turnstile and car park attendants, most of whom are pensioners.

February 10, 1993 Next time you sink your teeth into a McDonald’s burger, you will be chomping on lettuce from Werribee South.

February 12, 2003 The effect of the drought has hit locally with the announcement Southern Rural Water will suspend its extra water allocations to farmers in the Werribee district.

February 13, 2013 Pick and choose, buying fruit straight from the source

12544962-AV15-22

40 years ago

Wednesday, 8 February, 2023 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY 17

Property news

Brighten your world with viva magenta, the colour of ‘23 By Holly McGuinness This year’s hottest colour has been announced and could be a welcome addition to any home renovations, if you’re bold enough. Dubbed by the Pantone Colour Institute as an “unconventional shade for an unconventional time,” ‘viva magenta’ strongly walks the line between blue and red. After much consideration, the colour institute landed on viva magenta as it boasts a variety of layers, drawing inspiration from the natural world; it’s selection is intended to ignite a new passion in design. Pantone executive director Leatrice Eiseman said Viva Magenta is a red descendant that emanates what is real during our current age of technology, it helps us build an inner strength. “Rooted in the primordial, viva magenta reconnects us to original matter. Invoking the forces of nature,” she said. Recent interior design trends are being influenced by nature, so incorporating organic materials into home design is all the rage right now. According to Pantone these trends are influenced from years of lockdown which has created a shift in behaviour. Intertwining this year’s hottest shade in the home may seem a head scratching task, but Pantone suggests to “harness the full power” of this year’s colour, a velvet couch or feature wall will create an eye-catching ode for individuals and designers alike to make a hefty impact. For a less committal addition, a floral arrangement, striking abstract art piece or table settings make for a dramatic addition on a smaller, less committal scale. The colour of the year was announced late 2022, influencing or perhaps predicting fashion, beauty, home and living trends for the year to come. The colour’s organic origins are credited

A vibrant viva magenta feature wall will be a statement piece in your home, perfectly accompanied by natural elements.

Style with neutral tones to make this year’s colour really stand out.

to the Cochineal beetle, a South American parasite that’s been used as vibrant red dye for centuries. As one of the world’s most precious natural dyes, Ms Eiseman says it’s also of the strongest and brightest. Pantone vice president, Laurie Pressman said “It is a culmination of the macro-level colour trend forecasting and research that the global team involved with the Pantone Color Institute conducts year-round that informs this selection.” Use the colour of the year for a real statement that’ll have your visitors talking.

(Pictures: Shutterstock)

East Facing- Contemporary living! 5 Perlette Drive Point Cook Reliance Point Cook brings to you this stunning custom built 4-bedroom house situated on 544sqm block of land, walking distance to all the amenities, yet situated in a quiet location. This outstanding opportunity to secure a highly desirable property with elegant interior won’t last long. *Comprises of 4 Bedrooms in total plus study. Spacious main bedroom is large enough and features resort style accommodation including huge mirrored walk in robe plus luxurious en-suite bathroom with bathtub, dual vanity and over size shower. The study is located at the front of the house which can also be used as office while working from home. the other three bedrooms are spacious and comes with mirrored built in robes and shares the central bathroom complete with bathtub and separate toilet. *A choice of living areas includes formal lounge / home theatre with double doors plus open plan informal living and dining with timber bi fold doors preceding the covered alfresco area complete with BBQ unit and decking. *The sleek kitchen is the epitome of contemporary chic design and includes upgraded stainless steel appliances including coffee machine, stone finishes, walk in butler’s pantry plus ample work space and storage *Living areas open to the expansive decked alfresco area with built in BBQ facilities and overlooking the low maintenance back yard extending the entertaining options *Other Features include ducted heating and evaporative cooling plus split system air conditioner, double garage with internal access, 4.2kw solar power system, high ceilings, down lights, porcelain tiling, floor to ceiling tiling in wet areas, square set cornices, feature entry plus low maintenance gardens Approximate Distances:1 min (approx) walk to Hacketts Rise Park 3 mins (approx) walk to Upper point cook oval and cricket club 8 mins (approx) walk to shops, Point Cook P-9 School and Stella Maris School. This outstanding opportunity won’t last long. Contact Ravi Gupta on 0422 050 078 or Vee Sharma on 0426 736 078 to book an inspection before its gone.

Vee Sharma 0426 736 078 vee@reliancere.com.au

RELIANCE REAL ESTATE POINT COOK Address: Shop 2/238 Boardwalk Blvd Point Cook Vic 3030 | Telephone No: 03 9369 6399 18 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 8 February, 2023

12588699-JC06-23

Ravi Gupta 0422 050 078 ravi@reliancere.com.au

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

COMMUNITY

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

Friends of Presidents Park The Friends of Presidents Park meets from 10am to noon on the first Thursday of the month, to undertake Landcare activities along the Werribee River through the park and surrounding areas. With activities including planting, weeding, mulching and litter removal, the focus of the group is to restore the vegetation along the river, improve water quality and create habitat for wildlife. Along with the environmental benefits, the group also provides a chance for locals to connect with others in their community and enjoy being in the natural environment. No experience is required. Bring your own gloves and water. Morning tea provided. Meeting location: the carpark near the Shaws Road Bridge, Heaths Road, near the fenced dog park. ■ admin@werribeeriver.org.au

Hoppers Crossing Ladies Probus The friendly and vibrant group meet at Hotel 520 on the second Wednesday of each month from 10am. They have a guest speaker each month as well as social lunches, outings and theatre trips. ■ 0407 856 519

Seniors House of Fun The Grange Community Centre would like to invite the seniors of Wyndham to its weekly Seniors House of Fun. This is a free program running every Friday 11am-12.30pm, at The Grange Community Centre, 260-280 Hogans Road, Hoppers Crossing. ■ Vanessa, 8742 800, or enquires@grangecommunity.org.au

The Werribee RSL hosts Bingo every Monday, except public holidays. Eyes down from 12.30-2.30pm.

The Werribee Senior Citizens Club Inc meets at 80 Lonsdale Circuit, Hoppers Crossing. The group is open to all people 55-plus , and it runs on Wednesdays, 10am- noon. Entry: $2, includes morning tea. ■ 0403 041 499

encouraging residents to get a trivia team ready and help raise funds for much-needed medical equipment to support patient care in Wyndham. The event will take place from 7pm on Friday, February 24 at the Plaza Tavern, Hoppers Crossing. Early bird tickets $30 until Feburary 6, or sold out, then $35 individual ticketsm with table of eight or 10 options available. Tickets are limited. ■ https://bit.ly/3IRw3iW

Walking group

Western Budgerigar Club

Generations in Gaia is a monthly walk for young to old, exploring Wyndham’s open spaces and nature trails. Visiting a new site each month, the walks are especially tailored to little legs, delicate bodies and curious minds. ■ Jess, 0450 348 969.

The Western Suburbs Budgerigar Club meets at 7.30pm on the third Thursday of each month at Masonic Hall, 223 Watton Street, Werribee. Meet other members who are also passionate about breeding Budgerigars. ■ Don, 0414 975 862

Wyndham Rotary

Wyndham Ladies Probus

Wyndham Rotary is welcomes people interested in helping others in need within the community. To find out more, visit the Italian Sports Club on Wednesday nights at 6:30pm to join them for a meal, share ideas and work for a common cause. ■ Julie, 0406196630.

Are you recently retired or semi-retired? Looking for fun, fellowship and to increase your social networks. The Ladies Probus Club of Wyndham meets on the first Wednesday of each month at Hotel520, Sayers Road, Tarneit, and normally has an outing or event on the third Wednesday of each month. ■ Rosa Sanderson, 0410 303 046

Seniors club

U3A Werribee The group is a not-for-profit community organisation for semi-retired and retired Wyndham residents. They hold a variety of classes/activities specifically designed for Seniors, including, light physical and mental wellbeing sessions, arts, games and craft, and general classes such as current affairs, history and lunch groups. Most classes/activities are held at Wyndham Community Centres. ■ Rick, 0402 299 220.

Lions Club Lions Club of Werribee meets at the RSL Club 2a Synnot Street Werribee on the first and third Wednesday of the month 6.30pm for a 7pm dinner meeting. ■ Lou, 0409 331 271

Trivia night Wyndham Health Foundation is

9398 2511

Mouth organ band The Yarraville Mouth Organ Band meets Friday evenings at 203 Williamstown Road, Yarraville. Great music, friendly atmosphere. New members welcome. ■ Heather, 9399 2190, or ymob1933@yahoo.com.au

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

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 to 2.30pm.

Williamstown book sale AeroSpeakers Toastmasters Club 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 7-9.30pm. ■ Vimi, 0411530944

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-11.30am. $5 casual fee each week. ■ admin@ljac.com.au,or

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

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 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. All welcome including friends and family of people with drinking problems. ■ 1300 22 22 22, or www.aatimes.org.au

Altona book sale Friends of Altona Library hold a monthly book sale on the first Tuesday, Friday and Saturday of each month at the rear of Altona Library, 123 Queen Street, Altona, access via Coles carpark, 10am to 1pm. ■ libraries.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/ community/friends-of-the-libraries

Williamstown Craft Market Commonwealth Reserve comes alive on the third Sunday of the month for the Williamstown Craft Market. The market boasts more than 50 stalls showcasing everything from handmade craft, homegrown produce and food vendors. There will also be live music. From 10am to 4pm. ■ www.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/Community/ Whats-On/Williamstown-Craft-Market

Point Gellibrand Rotary Club Rotary Club of Point Gellibrand meets at Customs House Hotel, 161 Nelson Place, Williamstown, on the first and third Tuesday of the month from 6pm for a 6.30pm dinner meeting. The club has some great speakers and need new, energetic, enthusiastic members who want to make a difference in their community. ■ www.rotarypointgellibrand.com.au, Pam, 0418 347 691, or rotarypointgellibrand@gmail.com

Friendship group Altona Day Voice Interest and Education of Women [VIEW] Club meets at 11am on the third Wednesday of the month at Altona RSL. The club is always open to new members, and anyone interested is encouraged to get in touch today and see what it’s all about. ■ Janet, 9394 6522, or 0412 010 176 Wednesday, 8 February, 2023 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY 19

PUZZLES

6 3 5 2

No. 119

9 2 1 3 9 8 3 4 hard

10 11 12 13

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

Today’s Aim: 16 words: Good 24 words: Very good

8 2 6 7 4 9 3 5 1

1 8 5 9 2 3 4 7 6

3 2 6 7 4 5 8 1 9

7 9 4 8 1 6 3 5 2

9 1 2 3 5 7 6 4 8

5 LETTERS ACTED ADMIT ALIBI ALLAH ANGLE AORTA ASPEN BARON BESTS BLESS BLUES BOOMS BUTTE EASES ELOPE ENROL ERROR EVENT FORGE GEESE

5 3 1 6 7 2 9 8 4

9 7 1 3 8 5 4 6 2

5 4 3 1 6 2 8 7 9

4 1 5 6 2 8 9 3 7

2 8 9 5 7 3 6 1 4

3 6 7 4 9 1 2 8 5

7 3 2 9 5 6 1 4 8

1 9 4 8 3 7 5 2 6

6 5 8 2 1 4 7 9 3

5 2 1 4 6 7 3 9 8

8 5 6 7 4 9 1 3 2

9 3 7 5 1 2 4 8 6

4 1 2 8 3 6 7 5 9

1 7 4 6 5 8 9 2 3

2 8 9 1 7 3 5 6 4

3 6 5 9 2 4 8 1 7

NOTE: more than one solution may be possible

20 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 8 February, 2023

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

N A C T

7 9 3 2 8 5 6 4 1

C B

No. 119

S S

7 LETTERS ANAEMIA EMPOWER GIMMICK GRABBER NIPPLES PRESUME

SPERM SPREE STARE STRAW TALES TEARS UTTER WASTE WEAVE 6 LETTERS BASTED BEWARE ERASES NEARED

8 LETTERS ALARMIST SERENEST WARBLING WEARIEST

10-02-23

G I V E R A N O L E M A C E S

6 7 8 4 3 9 1 2 5

E B T

2 4 9 5 8 1 7 6 3

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

4 LETTERS CHEF DEER DISC MUMS NEST NETS OPUS SEEM SHES SIGN SPED SWAT TEAM TUNE

GREET HABIT ISLES LAMBS MENUS MOVIE NERVE NESTS OMEGA ORALS PAGED PALED PASTA PIANO RABBI ROUGE SAWED SEEDS SKATE SLEDS SLUTS

deeper, deer, deter, enter, entered, entree, erne, erred, peer, peered, pert, peter, petered, preen, preened, preteen, pretend, PRETENDER, reed, rend, render, rent, rented, renter, repent, repented, tender, tenderer, tern, tree, treed, trend

8 6 7 2 9 4 5 3 1

No. 119

( 5 5 2 5

V Y

Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

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

32 words: Excellent

hard

medium

easy

9-LETTER WORD

5x5

6 1 7 9 8 2

1 9 7 4

3 LETTERS ACE ADD ADS AMP ARC ATE AVO CAT DEN DIE EBB ERR EVE ICE LID LOT ONE OPT ORE PAP PEW SEE SPA TAG

F N X P S E C D T AWOQ

8 1 5

I U RMB G Z J K L H V Y

2 3 1 6 2 7

WORDFIT

QUICK QUIZ

What is the name used in industry for pure, crystalline glucose sugar?

Nephron is the basic structural and functional unit of which part of the human anatomy?

In what year did Home and Away debut on Australian television?

Lambaré, Luque and Limpio are major cities in which country?

Which star of American Graffiti said 'I’m like a fireman. When I go out on a call, I want to put out a big fire, I don’t want to put out a fire in a dumpster'?

Which Indonesian volcano erupted in 1883?

Lars Ulrich (pictured) is the drummer and co-founder of which US heavy metal band?

Wrigley Field is a baseball stadium located in which US city?

English cricketer Andrew Flintoff plays for which county cricket club in England?

10 A golden wedding celebrates which anniversary? ANSWERS: 1. Dextrose 2. Kidney 3. 1988 4. Paraguay 5. Harrison Ford 6. Krakatoa 7. Metallica 8. Chicago 9. Lancashire 10. 50 years

DECODER

5 2 8 * (

6 9 7

Knightly (9) Said no (7)

$ / / $ +

1 6

DOWN 1 2

% ( 6 7 6

2 4 9 5

/ $ 0 % 6

$ / , % ,

1 8

13 15 16 18 19 20 22 23

3 $ * ( '

medium

19 20 21 24

6 7 8

% 2 2 0 6 ( 1 5 2 / : ( $ 9 ( 3 $ / , ' ( 5 $ 6 ( 6 : ( 5 & + ( ) ( 5 $ 9 2 5 $ % % ( 5 5 % / , 1 * % 8 7 7 ( ' , ( ( 6 : $ 7 1 2 $ & ( 3 $ 6 7 $ 8 7 7 ( 5 6 ( ( ' 6

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

9 10 11 12 14 15 17

4 5

$ 6 3 ( 1 1 ( 5 9 ( * 5 ( ( 7 $ / ( 6 6 0 ( 1 8 6 3 ( 0 3 2 6 ( ( 0 ' ( , 6 7 * & . ( $ 0 : $ 7 8 1 ( $ ( 0 , $ ' 6 3 5 ( ' 6 3 , $ , 6 / ( 6 * ( ( 6 ( 1 ( 6 7 6

Auto (3) Change from one language into another (11) Raging fire (7) Settle (7) Aniseed liqueur (8) Mythical monster (6) Staff (3) In passionate manner (11) Exhibiting a desire to succeed (11) Name for the sun (3) Jewish religious text (6) Australian animal (8) Japanese technology company (7) Resident of Jerusalem or Tel Aviv (7) Dissipating into vapour (11) Restrained expression (3)

2 1 3 ( 7 6 7 6 3 $ ( ' 5 0 0 , 7 & $ 1 7 ( $ 2 5 5 ( ( '

easy

Capital of Italy’s Piedmont region (5) Highest point (10) Central African ethnic group (4) Positive declaration (9) Forbidden by law (7) Australian rugby league player and former Senator, – Lazarus (5) Lawsuit (10) Business leader (9) A jaundiced cast (9) Actor, – McCarthy (7) The sound brakes make (7) Heading (5) Prickly shrub (5) Fashion designer, – Jacobs (4)

ACROSS 1 3

No. 119

6 7 5 $ :

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

QUICK CROSSWORD

$ 2 5 7 $

No. 119

% / ( 6 6

SUDOKU

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

SECTION

Enjoy local

NEWS 12477071

-CG03-21

FEBRUARY

EVERY WEEK

10, 2021

\ STARW EEKLY.COM. AU

JAf £ fn¹Ǥ

Photos te your stor ll ies

This photo

Pick up your copy of Wyndham Star Weekly from any of the locations below. Or, subscribe to our FREE digital edition and have it sent to your device every week.

of Marbie,

taken in

a Hoppers

Crossing backyard, has

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

Council ‘soap op era’

By Alesha

been subm itted to the

competitio n. (Supplied)

Capone

Some Wyn “is behaving fire for theirdham councillors like a petul have Othe ant behaviour at a publi during a come under show rs likened the meet child”. c meet . “Someone ing to their Councillor ing last Tuesday. heated debate pass the favourite the acquisition of The deba like child s have been descr the site for governmen te erupt popcorn”. Szatk ren and ibed as beha ed when by viewe Education t school; and for couna future state being a ving moti owski attempted Cr Robe rs “petu splitt Mini on, put to split rt broadcast watching the meet lant child ” It also stated ster James Merl cil to write to Cr ing the motion five separ forward by Cr Josh a notice of live on Faceb ino. and raise ing as it Szatkowsk that coun ate support for d conc At one motions for ook. Gilligan, was i cil should the site The moti into councillor reiterate its dollars of dona has “received thou erns that forced to point mayor Adel s to vote on. that council shou to remain a site sand interject. Road, whic on concerned land e Hegedich Tarneit linke tions from the for a ld remain the over relian state mem s of h was earm The debat at was of d “concernedschool; ber of Cr Szatk to this motion”. a future nonarked for 203 Woods land ce of the priva the pronunciae deteriorated into constructi and gover te sector to about a matter owski stated the Trug deliv nmen bicke tion on anina Preci er ring over of a councillor acquire accusation of nct Struc t school under the to consider how schools in Wyndham Gilligan to public record. He donations are of ’s name, and As repor this may stages of the ”; and ted by Star ture Plan. “pronounc “I’m appa abusive language being then asked an relate the e my surna After Schools4W to any futur Weekly in Cr Victo comments lled by behaviour used. The moti me correctly”. yndh September e twice trying to say Cr Szatk Tribunal rian Civil and made by , Cr Gillig , undertake on also called am advocacy. has given viewer stated some peop , tone and owski’s surna Adm an inistr for inste to divide first name le tonight”, the coun a strategic ad addressed me the site intothe developer perm ative look at . cil to “Communi . one the him by his ission plann how it could planning revie 227 residentia As the deba Catholic like adults” ty are interested w Educ put te to ing l continued lots, after ation Offic in place in adults behav agreement wrote anoth controls , Cr Sahana stronger raised a point of e pulle for around to er, and that ing order Ram sites of “using Cr Gillig build a school there d out of an infranon-government one councillor abusive languaccusing Cr Gilligesh schools and designated cham structure. Sarah Connan’s motion called . an community ber”. age in the for olly to be Cr council asked to publiTarneit MP origi Gilligan descr The mayo ibed r said she nal notic cly support the chan was did He quest e of motion as “ridic ges to his you said, “but if there not hear exactly ioned Cr what was please refra Szatkowsk ulous”. in from usingany language, can i’s motives Coun it again for separ cillors voted on ate motions. Cr Szatk ”. owski’s five All were passe d.

NOW OP

12480371

-DL06-21

455 Balla

Shop T3A, Manor Lake Manor Lakes Cent ral E: lawule@g s (Next to Man or Lakes mail.com Medical P: 0433 Centre) 572 664

n Road,

EN YOUR FIN STORE FOERASIAN FOOD GROCERY ALL YOUR NE WE STOCK EDS. THAI, FILIP INO, BUR CHINESE AND

MESE, MANY MOR KOREAN, E!

• • •

•

• • • •

•

• • • •

•

• • • • •

Hoppers Crossing First Serve Tuck Shop 2/10 Dunlop Road Hoppers Crossing Hoppers Indoor Sportz Unit 13/ 55 Graham Court Hoppers Crossing Pacific Werribee Shopping Centre 250Heaths Road, Cnr Derrimut Road Hoppers Crossing Wyndham Library Level 1, MM11 Heaths Road, Cnr Derrimut Road Hoppers Crossing Werribee Plaza Tavern Heaths Road, Cnr Derrimut Road Hoppers Crossing Coles Supermarket 250 Heaths Road, Cnr Derrimut Road Hoppers Crossing APCO Service Station 178 Morris Road Hoppers Crossing Hoppers Crossing Shopping Centre24-48 Old Geelong Road Hoppers Crossing Woodville Park Shopping CentreShop 20/70 Warringa Drive Hoppers Crossing IGA Plus Liquor Shop 4, 2-6 Deloraine Drive Hoppers Crossing Aqua Pulse Café 82 Derrimut Road Hoppers Crossing Coles Express 260 Derrimut Road (Cnr Hogans Road) Hoppers Crossing The Grange Community Centre 260-280 Hogans Road Hoppers Crossing Hoppers Crossing Cricket Club Hogans Road - Hogans Road Reserve (Club House) Hoppers Crossing Super Lotto News agency Shop 8/166 Hogans Road (Hogans Corner Shopping Centre) Hoppers Crossing Woolworths Supermarket Hoppers Crossing (Hogans Corner) Corner Hogans Road & Derrimut Road Hoppers Crossing Tigers Club House 70 Old Geelong Road Hoppers Crossing Popeyes Kebabs 255 Old Geelong Road Keilor Park Star Weekly Office Unit 6/19 Thomson Road (Cnr Keilor Park Drive)

• •

•

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Laverton Ray White Real Estate 6/161 Railway Avenue Manor Lakes Manor Lakes News & Lotto Shop 14, 455 Ballan Road (Manor Lakes Central Shopping Centre) Manor Lakes Manor Lakes Shopping Centre 455 Ballan Road (Manor Lakes Central Shopping Centre) Point Cook Featherbrook Shopping Centre 238 Boardwalk Boulevard Point Cook Wyndham Library Service Unit 1-21 Cheetham Street Point Cook Point Cook Pharmacy Shop 1-11 Dunnings Road Point Cook Jamieson Way Community Centre 59 Jamieson Way Point Cook Direct Chemist Outlet Shop 13, 15 Kenswick Street Point Cook Stockland Point Cook Shopping Centre Murnong Street Point Cook Saltwater Community Centre 153 Saltwater Promenade Point Cook Saltwater Coast Sales Office 261 Saltwater Promenade Point Cook The Brooks 215S neydes Road Point Cook YPA Real Estate Shop 10/46-56 Tom Roberts Parade Point Cook Wyn City 36 Wallace Avenue Sanctuary Lakes Sanctuary Lakes Golf Club 70 Greg Norman Drive Sanctuary Lakes Sanctuary Lakes Resort 72 Greg Norman Drive Sanctuary Lakes Waterstone Café Sanctuary Lakes 72 Greg Norman Drive Sanctuary Lakes Sanctuary Lakes Real Estate 300 Point Cook Road Sanctuary Lakes Sanctuary Lakes Shopping Centre 300 Point Cook Road Tarneit Tarneit Central Shopping Centre 540 Derrimut Road Tarneit NewsXpress - Riverdale Village SC 200 Hummingbird Boulevard Tarneit Penrose Promenade Community Centre 83 Penrose Promenade Tarneit Brian Mark Real Estate Shop 18, 380 Sayers Road Tarneit Wyndham Village Shopping Centre 380 Sayers Road Tarneit Shell Service Station 380 Sayers Road (Wyndham Village

•

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Shopping Centre) Tarneit Barry Plant Real Estate Shop 9, 380 Sayers Road (Wyndham Village Shopping Centre) Tarneit Community Centre - Tarneit 150 Sunset Views Boulevard Tarneit Serranos Cafe 747 Tarneit Road ( Tarneit Gardens SC ) Truganina Koomail Tardy Community Centre 117 Alcock Road Truganina Palm Lakes Resort 7 Taronga Road Truganina Arndell Park Community Centre 29-49 Federation Boulevard Werribee Eagles Stadium Café 35 Ballan Road Werribee Ison Village 150-168 Bulban Road Werribee Casaccio Egg Farm 170-198 Bulban Road Werribee IGA Supermarket 92-94 Cottrell Street Werribee Mercy Place Wyndham 39 Deutgam Street Werribee Werribee Park Motor Inn 112-124Duncans Road Werribee Italian Sports Club 601 Heaths Road Werribee The Woman’s Hub 236 Hoppers Lane Werribee St Vincent’s Private Hospital 240 Hoppers Lane Werribee St Vincent’s Care Services Werribee 240 Hoppers Lane Werribee Wyndham City Council 45 Princes Highway Werribee Werribee Mercy Hospital Coffee Shop300Princes Highway Werribee SIMS IGAWerribee Village Cnr Shaws & Tarneit Rd Werribee Tatts Lotto16Station Place Werribee Westwoods First National1Synnot Street Werribee Werribee RSL2A Synnot Street (Kelly Park) Werribee Werribee Fersh Market2/57Synnot Street Werribee OBrien Real EstateShop 2/85Synnot Street Werribee Cellarbrations 52-54 Vincent Crescent

• • • • • • • • • • •

• • • •

•

• •

• • •

•

Werribee Professionals Triwest 6a Watton Street Werribee Bendigo Bank 42 Watton Street Werribee P. Di Natale Real Estate 44 Watton Street Werribee Coles Supermarket 143 Watton Street Werribee Wyndham Cultural Centre 177 Watton Street Werribee Hodges Werribee Level 1/1 Watton Street Werribee Raine and HorneShop 4, 1-13 Watton Street Werribee Barry Plant Real Estate 21 Watton Street Werribee YPA Real Estate 1 Werribee Street Werribee Wyndham Private Medical Centre 242 Hoppers Lane Werribee IPEP Clinic University Werribee Campsus Gate 1, Building 12 - 235 Hoppers Lane Werribee South Werribee South General Store 785 Duncans Road Werribee South Wyndham Cache (LT’s Egg Farm)1K Ave Werribee South Anglers Anchorage Take Away 67 O’Connors Road Williams Landing Williams Landing News, Lotto & Tobacco Shop T10, 100 Overton Road (Williams Landing Shopping Centre) Williams Landing Woolworths Supermarket 100 Overton Road (Williams Landing Shopping Centre) Wyndham Vale BP Service Station 210 Ballan Road Wyndham Vale Woolworths 205 Greens Road (Wyndham Vale Square Shopping Centre) Wyndham Vale IGA Wyndham Vale 50 Honour Avenue Wyndham Vale Iramoo Community Centre 84 Honour Avenue Wyndham Vale Manor Lakes Community Learning Centre 86 Manor Lakes Boulevard Wyndham Vale 7 Eleven Wyndham Vale Corner McGrath Road & Ballan Road

12579868-AV48-22

Pick up your FREE newspaper from these local outlets...

Scan this QR code to Subscribe for FREE now! Or visit: wyndham.starweekly.com.au/subscribe Wednesday, 8 February, 2023 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY 21

SECTION STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

networkclassifieds.com.au Trades & Services V Deadline

V Trades Business Profile

V Concrete Products & Services

V CONCRETING GTSpecialising in all types of concreting.

12589153-MS06-23

PTY LTD

Placing your classified advert is so easy...

Plain • Colour • Stencil • Slate Pattern • Exposed Aggregate • Driveways • Pathways • Garage Floors • Factory Floors • Car Parks • Driveway Pressure Cleaning FREE QUOTES. Call Matthew: 0413 789 755

Online: networkclassiﬁeds.com.au (24/7) Phone: 1300 666 808 (Open 8.30-5pm Mon-Fri) Email: sales@networkclassiﬁeds.com.au (include your name, address and phone number)

TRADES & SERVICES

(1.5% credit card processing fee applies. Cheques and money orders can be posted in or hand delivered to our local ofﬁce)

12435710-CG03-20

Speak to our classified team and find out how easy it is to advertise. Start building your brand today and be seen every week in Network Classifieds Trades and Services.

AS AP.E TI LI NG

V Air Conditioning

Services • Repairs • Maintenance Over 30 years experience, All types of Air Con, Evap Cooler & Gas Heating System AU31693 G6425413AA-dc5Nov

• Bathroom, Kitchen, Toilet Renovation • Small Extension • Carpentry / Plastering • 20yrs. Plus Building Experience ** call Hill now for a free quote **

Tel 0427 963 906

V Bathroom & Kitchens

Domestic installations and repairs Specialising in small jobs

rec: 15262

Phone George 0408 626 446

“We advertise in our local Star Weekly to let our customers know of the special deals we have going and to reach the broader community” - Aaron

V Fencing & Gates

We install All types of fences including Colorbond and paling fences. Removal of old fence if required

Call Chris on 0401 230 861

12587929-FC05-23

KS Heating & Cooling

Call 0430 332 368

LOCAL ELECTRICIAN

From plumbers to pest control, carpet cleaning to building services, dry cleaning to computer repairs, lawn mowing and more, Network Classifieds has been connecting local businesses with the local community with our Trades and Services each week.

Ask about our discounted ongoing advertising rates and how choosing more newspapers gives your advertising more impact and saves you money...

Deadline for all classifications is 1:00pm Tuesday.

V Electricians

12411120-MB07-19

VISA/MASTERCARD/EFTPOS

12357251-LB28-17

We accept payment by:

General Classiﬁeds

12420493-CG25-19

section of Network Classiﬁeds.

Kitchens & Bathroom Renovations

A1 Garden Maintenance & Rubbish Removals V Concrete Products & Services

Phone John: 0401 763 559

Froggys CONTRACTING

Very diverse in all aspects of specialised property services

12533274-HC09-22

V Builders & Building Services

"We do all the small jobs that the bigger companies don't have time for" Up to 60 square metres Shed floors, paths, driveways etc. Coloured, plain, slate and stencil. FREE MEASURE & QUOTE Workmanship guaranteed, with over 30 years experience

Phone Tony 0404 775 573

Celebrations

M & D MICALLEF

Andrew 0425 852 621 | Froggys.com.au | info@froggys.com.au

section of Network Classifieds.

CONCRETING

V Cabinet Makers

V Concrete Products & Services

Pergolas • Decks • Retaining Walls • Renovations • Landscaping

KITCHEN REVIVAL

P & A GATT P/L EXPERT CONCRETE WORK

Specialising in quality kitchen facelifts Re-laminating existing bench tops & doors New cabinets-Kitchen, Laundry, Bathroom

Call Chris 9399 8104 or 0419 329 550

Exposed aggregate, slate, stencil, colour & plain concrete Exposed aggregate pressure washing, concrete cutting & re-sealing

Philip - 9741 5708 or 0412 543 709 1152992-LB36-14

12584381-AV02-23

House slabs Aggregate Stencil Slate Coloured concrete

Martin 0418 171 280 or 9748 3196

Plain concrete Wash/seal old

drive ways Bobcat and dingo hire

Employment section of Network Classifieds.

฀ ฀

฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀

฀

Call Sam

฀

฀ ฀

฀

฀ ฀ ฀

฀

฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀

0450 820 170 - 7 days

LAWN MOWING SERVICES 12416265-CG17-19

Specialising in office cleaning, building, cleaning, window cleaning and vacate

12413659-LB12-19

SM & J Cleaning Service

www.topedgekitchens.com.au

SMALL SMALL CONCRETING CONCRETING JOBS JOBS

12335742-HM02-17

V Cleaning Services

12360798-DJ33-17

12588416-SN06-23

Showroom by appointment only Free Quotes & Mobile Ensuite Hire. terms & conditions apply Please note that we specialise in renovations - we do not do repairs or maintenance

8348 5441

V Garden Services

Altona, Laverton, Hoppers Crossing, Werribee. ฀ ฀

฀

฀ ฀ ฀ ฀

฀

฀ ฀

PENSIONER RATES

GEORGE FOX 0431 277 046

12422553-FA29-19

STEVE’S GARDENING • Lawn Mowing • Weeding • Rubbish Removal • Removing Trees • Gutter Cleaning • Spraying

Phone 0401 407 282

12497544-JW23-21

· Plumbing · Tiling · Electrical · Carpentry · Plastering · One stop shop - Kitchen, bathroom, laundries & renovation needs. · Complete service from start to finish, including kitchen 3D design. · Appliance packages available. · Bathroom tapware, accessories & tiles on display in our showroom.

AMAZING GARDEN SERVICES Specialist in • Lawn mowing • Edging Pruning / Hedge Trimming • Regular Maintenance • Rubbish Removals • Tree Lopping • Gutter Cleaning

Call Joe 0498 375 094 - 7 days

29 .00

Brimbank & North West Star Weekly

Melton & Moorabool Star Weekly

Sunbury & Macedon Ranges Star Weekly

Maribyrnong & Hobsons Bay Star Weekly

• All advertisements must be pre-paid. For $29.00 you get a 4 line, ONE ITEM ONLY advertisement, restricted to “For Sale” or “Motoring” items only for private advertisers, run initially for 13 weeks or until sold. Additional lines will be charged at $3 per line per publication. • After your advertisement has run for 13 weeks you must call us each fortnight to renew it for a further 2 week period AND reduce the price of your item by a minimum 5% for items in the “For Sale” section or 3% for items in the “Motoring” section. This process may continue until you have sold your item. If we do not hear from you we will assume you have sold your item and your advertisement will not appear. • The sale price must be included in the advertisement and the only alterations you may make are to the PRICE of your item. • Business advertisements, rental hire, pets & livestock and real estate are not included in the offer.

Wyndham Star Weekly

• The publisher reserves the right to decline any booking for the purpose of ongoing gain. Run my advert in:

Northern Star Weekly

2 papers - $7 extra 3 papers - $14 extra 4 papers - $21 extra 5 papers - $28 extra 6 papers - $35 extra

ADD A PHOTO FOR AN ADDITIONAL $8.00. 12588887-ET06-23

22 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 8 February, 2023

General Classifieds

฀

฀ ฀

฀

฀ ฀

฀

★ New & Existing ★

Homes

฀

MEMBER OF MASTER BUILDERS ASSOCIATION

฀ Reg No 8659

฀ ฀

NICK’S RE-BLOCKING SERVICE

ALL SUBURBS ★ RAISING ★ LEVELLING ★ UNDERPINNING ★ RESTUMPING WITH CONCRETE OR REDGUM STUMPS ★ COUNCIL PERMIT ★ ALL WORK GUARANTEED

FREE QUOTES

0421 421 640

FREE SMOKE ALARM

V Handy Persons

PH: 9360 5357 Mobile: 0412 378 193 Registered Building Practitioner

G6254323AA-dc28Aug

JOHN’S HANDYMAN SERVICES � Carpentry � Doors � Painting � Wallpapering � Tiling � Flat Pack Assembly � All Odd Jobs No job too small - Free Quotes

G6795050AA-dc29Apr 1132314-LB19-14

V Television/Video/Audio

Call John 0433 911 967 or 9395 5019

HIGHLY EXPERIENCED TECHNICIANS ANTENNA SERVICE ALL AREAS

0403 059 904

12560685-AV31-22

V Painters/Decorators

12469374-CG46-20

12416368-CG17-19

• Bathroom, Kitchen, Toilet Renovation • Small Extension • Carpentry / Plastering • 20yrs. Plus Building Experience ** call Hill now for a free quote **

0439 858 298 SAIDA’S PAINTING Top Quality Guaranteed EST. 2008

• Domestic • Commercial • Interior • Exterior • New Homes • Renovation • Plaster Repairs • Home Repairs

General Classifieds V Adult Services

V Garage Sales

Rainbow Club

0416 561 594 0403 610 782 www.saidaspaintingau.com

12561969-JC32-22

Call for a Free Quote

12567906-MS37-22

Tel 0427 963 906

Employment

$110/ 30mins Open 7 days

HOPPERS CROSSING Annual Garage Sale. 675 Sayers Rd. Sat 11th Feb. STRICTLY 8am - 4pm. 7 households worth.

V Plumbing

ADVERTISERS, in this section are qualified practitioners and offer nonsexual services. Find it in the

Real Estate

NEW NEW NEW 32 Dunlop Rd Hoppers Crossing

12553448-JC23-22

Swa13128xbe

MIRMIC PLUMBING

FREE Quotes

Call Mick 0417 352 040

12530339-JW02-22

Lic 35031

• General Plumbing & Maintenance • Spouting & Roofing • Hot & Cold Water Services • Gas work

0431 390 599

Professional Services

V Professional

V Self Employment Opportunities

3/381-385 Williamstown Road, Yarraville Contact: Darren 0419 328 365 MIDAS YARRAVILLE

V Positions Vacant

OPERATORS/ LABOURER /WEIGHBRIDGE OPERATOR Excavator Operator Loader Operator and Labourer required. Duties include greasing, maintenance and adhoc.

Distributors DO YOU NEED EXTRA $$$$'S MRA Distributors are seeking Individuals and families, Community Groups, Sporting Groups and Schools to participate in the distribution of Telephone Directories. There are many areas available and a great opportunity to earn some extra $$$$'s or to fundraise. Must have an ABN. Contact Kerri either by email : info@mrad.com.au or mob: 0429 214 229 and leave your name, contact number and area/s of interest.

Admin and adhoc duties, full time position, computer knowledge is essential. Saturdays required.

Contact Norm after 5pm for further details:

Contact: Kerri 0429 214 229

Motoring

0428 568 004

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

DISCRIMINATION IN ADVERTISING IS UNLAWFUL The Victorian Equal Opportunity Act 1995 makes it unlawful for an advertiser to show any intention to discriminate on the basis of sex, pregnancy, race, age, marital status, political or religious belief or physical features, disability, lawful sexual activity/sexual orientation, HIV/AIDS status or on the basis of being associated with a person with one of the above characteristics, unless covered by an exception under the Act. As Network Classifieds could be legally liable if an unlawful advertisement is printed, Network Classifieds will not accept advertisements that appear to break the law. For more information about discrimination in advertising, contact your legal advisers or the Equal Opportunity Commission.

General Classifieds section of Network Classifieds.

Motoring V Wrecking

V Wrecking

FREE CAR REMOVAL Pay up to $500 for most cars Dead or Alive LMCT 10268W

7 days a week service Call Gus for a free quotation on

FREE CAR REMOVAL Pay up to $600 for all complete cars dead or alive!

0422 108 512 Also Towing Service Available 12493026-AV19-21

LMCT 10268W

0435 904 818

V Pets & Services

12423634-SN31-19

12474997-DL50-20

section of Network Classiﬁeds.

Velvet House

section of Network Classiﬁeds.

NEW STAFF? www.networkclassiﬁeds.com.au

APPRENTICE MOTOR MECHANIC

Weighbridge Operator V Massage Therapists

48 Davies Avenue, Sunshine North 9364 0770 SWA6566B

section of Network Classifieds.

12587929-FC05-23

฀ ฀ ฀

ASAP.E TILING

Painting Services ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀

Celebrations

NEED

Fill your position online

V Apprenticeships /Traineeships

V Tiling

seaview

Find it in the

Employment

DIGITAL ANTENNAS AMPLIFIERS TV OUTLETS

0409 888 228

A TEACHER Available for tutoring. Mathematics, Science, Chemistry, Chinese and Japanese. Phone 0418 871 203

section of Network Classifieds.

SAME DAY SERVICE

• Garden Design & Construction • Instant & Synthetic Turf • Drainage Solutions • Excavation • Earthmoving • Trencher & Auger Attachments • Landscaping • Site Cuts/Cleans FREE QUOTES • Bobcat • Dingo • Excavator • Tipper Hire

MALTESE SHIH TZU puppies 2 male, 2 female. 9 weeks old for sale. Vaccinated and microchipped. 956000015860226 956000015866692 956000015863820 956000015864393 Source number EE207495 Call Andrew 0401 781 199

V Positions Vacant

General Notices

ANTENNA MAN

V Landscaping

V Tuition

THE PLUMBING COMPANY Ph: 9360 0466

EMERGENCY 24/7 SERVICE

• Blocked Drains • Drain Camera • Burst Pipes

• Hot Water Services • Roof Repairs • Gas Servicing

12499321-JW24-21

RJ GUTTERS ฀

V Pets & Services

V Reblocking/Underpinning 1232632-ACM26-16

12321532-HM36-16

V Guttering

Employment

12565959-HC35-22

Trades & Services

Lic. No. 28635

ADVERTISE with us and get better results CALL 1300 666 808 Wednesday, 8 February, 2023 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY 23

MOTOR STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Toyota Corolla hybrid hatch

Toyota Corolla Hybrid is stylish, affordable and has excellent fuel economy.

(Pictures: Supplied)

By Alistair Kennedy, Marque Motoring If ever there was a car that needed no introduction it’s the Toyota Corolla. First released in 1966 and arriving in Australia the following year, it is the all-time biggest-selling car worldwide, passing the 50-million mark in 2021. The current (12th generation) Corolla has been on sale here since 2019 with an upgrade for the 2023 model year providing the latest fifth-generation hybrid powertrain, the latest version of the Toyota Connected Services system as well as upgrades to the multimedia system. As before MY23 Corolla comes in three grades: Ascent Sport, SX and ZR, each with the choice of petrol-only or petrol/electric hybrid. Toyota is very serious about electrification and has put a lot of work into making all its vehicles low polluters. Since 2016 Corolla has come with the option of a petrol/electric hybrid and this week’s review is on the entry-level hybrid Ascent Sport hatch.

Styling With the growth in SUVs, designers of traditional sedans and hatchbacks have tended to lean towards lower, sleeker profiles as a point of different to the boxier SUV shapes. The Gen 12 Corolla is a good example. It’s longer, lower and wider than before with a more coupe-like silhouette which combine to give a much bolder stronger road presence. The front is quite low and the slim headlights are connected across the complete car and run well up into the sides of the bonnet. The lower grille is very large and makes a nice styling statement. Exterior changes for the upgraded model include new 16-inch wheels for Ascent Sport and SX grades, and a redesigned front grille for both hatch and sedan variants.

Interior The interior is neat and tidy with everything in the right place. Seats are wide, comfortable and supportive. Headroom is fine in the front seats but marginal for taller rear-seat passengers 24 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 8 February, 2023

AT A GLANCE MODEL RANGE Ascent Sport petrol hatch or sedan: $28,130 Ascent Sport hybrid hatch: $30,630 Ascent Sport hybrid sedan: $31,180 SX petrol hatch or sedan: $31,280 SX hybrid hatch or sedan: $33,780 ZR petrol hatch: $35,120

with narrow rear doors making entry difficult for larger occupants. There’s no sunroof option which would otherwise reduce space. There is reasonable width for three adults sitting in the rear seat although legroom is limited even in the longer-wheelbase sedan. At 217 litres with the rear seats in place boot space is quite poor. 60/40 Capacity with the rear seats folded has not been listed.

Engines / transmissions The upgraded hybrid system uses a newly-developed high-output motor generator, power control unit and downsized hybrid transaxle. These provide a 13kW increase in peak power to maximum combined petrol / hybrid output of 103kW with the 1.8-litre engine. Petrol hatch and sedan variants comes with the ongoing 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 126kW / 202Nm for the hatch and 126kW / 203Nm for the sedan. Both petrol and hybrid models are front-wheel drive through a CVT with 10-speed sequential shift mode.

Corolla Hybrid has a 72kW/142Nm 1.8-litre Atkinson Cycle and a 53kW/163Nm synchronous permanent magnet electric motor. They drive the front wheels by way of an e-CVT automatic.

Driving There’s height and reach steering wheel adjustment. The driver’s seat has eight-way power adjustment. The front seats are comfortable and provide good support in normal driving even without side bolsters. As with all Toyota hybrids, Corolla takes off silently under battery power before transitioning smoothly to the when needed. The same thing happens with the stop/start system in slow traffic. In gentle downhill cruising on the open road the battery will again take over. There’s excellent vision all round and sharp acceleration for safe urban manoeuvring. The steering responds promptly and gives excellent feedback through the wheel. Claimed fuel consumption for the Ascent Sport hybrid is listed at 4.2 litres per 100 kilometres. We averaged around 4.8 L/100 km

ZR petrol sedan: $36,620 ZR hybrid hatch: $37,620 ZR hybrid sedan: $39,120

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

during our week behind the wheel. Tyre noise is low at slow speeds on very smooth surfaces increasing quite a bit on rougher surfaces.

Summing up Toyota Corolla Hybrid offers excellent value with hatch prices ranging from $30,630 to $37,620. For these prices you get a great looking small car with a large range of both safety and convenience features. And one that’s now fun to drive. Toyota Corolla has been one of the world’s best-selling cars for many years, often the best seller. Having driven the latest model, now offered as a hybrid, it seems inevitable it will remain at the top of the list for years to come.

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

SPORT

New-look coaching set up for Werribee in 2023 It will be a different looking coaching box for Werribee in this year’s Victorian Football League season. Michael Barlow will coach the side for a third straight season, but he will be joined by some different faces. The club has brought in new defensive and midfield coaches for the upcoming campaign with Nick Daffy the one assistant returning from last year. Daffy will be Barlow’s right-hand man as the club’s senior assistant and will also make the move back to coaching forwards and ball movement. Taking over as midfield coach is Chris O’Keefe. A former VFL footballer, O’Keefe is no stranger to Melbourne’s west. He led Spotswood to a premiership in 2011 in the Western Region Football League and also had a stint at Albion.

More recently, O’Keefe spent the last four years coaching Caulfield in the Southern Football League where he also notched his 350th game at senior level. Simon Riddoch returns to the club for a second stint and will be the team defence and backline coach. Riddoch, an eight-time premiership defender in the Geelong Football League with North Shore, previously coached Lara and Grovedale and was a development coach at Werribee under John Lamont. Barlow and his assistants will be supported by four development coaches with Hamish MacInnes returning in the role of development manager. Two of the new development coaches in Tim Kelly (midfield) and Mario Mathuranayagam (backline) come in with familiarity having held match day roles with the club in recent seasons.

Meanwhile, Matt Dowling has been brought in to work alongside Daffy and the forwards. Heading up analysis yet again is Luke Rosenstengel with Wassim Rafihi, a development coach the past two years, and several interns assisting with analytics and statistics for individuals and the team. Barlow said he was really comfortable with the coaching group they’ve assembled. “We identified the need for a senior assistant and Daff is perfect for that role because of the connection he already has with the group and myself. “Simon and Chris have a good mix of experience as players and in coaching, and both have quickly gotten up to speed with what we are doing and how we want to play. “In terms of our development coaches we’re really happy to have these guys working closely with the senior coaches and assistants to develop our players.”

Michael Barlow

(Belinda Vitacca Photography)

Sports shorts WRFL Werribee Centrals have reappointed Glenn Ballard as the club’s Western Region Football League women’s coach. Ballard has coached the senior side for the past six years, helping the club’s female program grow. The club said on social media that Ballard’s experience will be beneficial and he is looking forward to being involved in each player’s football journey and seeing the improvement of all players.

A-League Western United academy goalkeeper Mayan Mayan has been called up to the South Sudan squad for the upcoming U20 African Cup of Nations in Egypt. Mayen will join the squad in camp ahead of the tournament’s commencement on February 19. Western United academy director Anthony Frost said the call-up to a major youth international tournament was a significant milestone and one that would boost both Mayen and the Academy in the future.

Bowls

Point Cook in action against Werribee Centrals

(Supplied)

Point Cook’s vital win By Tara Murray Point Cook got a vital win in the fight for a top two spot in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association division 3. Facing local rival Werribee Centrals, the match was one of three to go ahead despite heavy rain across the north-west on Saturday morning. Point Cook coach Carmine Conte said there was a little wet patch, but with both teams keen to get out there, play was only delayed by half an hour. Once out there, Point Cook continued on its good form. Centrals resumed at 1-44 in reply to Point Cook’s 6-305. Centrals were bowled out for 205 in the 56th over. Usman Ashraf played a lone hand for Centrals, making 86 off 103 balls. Harvinder Singh took four wickets for Point Cook. Centrals were sent back in and were 5-79 when the match ended. Kavin Kumar took three wickets for Point Cook.

Conte said while a couple of umpiring decisions didn’t got their way it was a pretty strong performance. “Obviously everyone contributed with the bat,” he said. ”We’re still playing with our batting line up, but we’re getting there. “We bowled okay. Kavin, another one of our juniors, picked up three quick wickets in the second innings. “He’s doing quite well.” With a couple of other important matches ending in draws on Saturday, things worked in the favour of Point Cook. The side moved into second spot and are only three points behind ladder leaders East Keilor. Conte said finishing in the top two and sealing a home final in the first week of finals was something they were aiming for. Point Cook faces fourth placed Williamstown Imperials this week. It will be a different looking side according to Conte. “This week we will probably have the youngest side that I’ve ever coached,” he said. “One of our main players got married

in India and a lot of his mates went over for the wedding, so we will have a lot of unavailability’s.” It was a busy weekend for Point Cook as it played a knockout match in the T20 competition, losing to Yarraville Club. Conte said they only had 10 players qualified for the match which made it a bit hard, but they were still able to take the game deep. He said six dropped catches cost them dearly. “We won’t pick up the bats at training on Tuesday night, it will just be fielding,” he joked. In other matches on the weekend, Bellbridge didn’t get on against Moonee Ponds in division 4. Moonee Ponds had made 192 on day one. In division 5, Sanctuary Lakes claimed an outright win against Barkly Street Uniting. Having made 276 on day one, the Sharks then bowled Barkly Street out for 92 and then 45 to claim the full 10 points. The Sharks now sit fourth on the ladder. Wyndhamvale lost to Donnybrook.

Hoppers pushed Deer Park 2 all the way in Bowls Victorian weekend pennant, division 2, section 1. It was a battle between first and last, but it proved to a be a lot closer. Hoppers won two of the four rinks, but fell short 78 (14)-73 (4). Hoppers will finish the season in last spot and be relegated, with the side sitting 18 points behind second bottom Altona Sports. The final round of the regular season is this Saturday.

WRFL Local football clearances are open and some big names from the Western Region Football League are on the move. Hoppers Crossing’s Jack Dorgan is headed to Deer Park, Tarneit’s Brent Taylor is headed to the Riddell District Football League, Daniel Burton is headed to Point Cook and a clearance has been lodged for St Albans star Tim Jenkins to join Werribee Districts.

FOR MORE SPORT, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Wyndham Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly Wednesday, 8 February, 2023 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY 25

SPORT STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Western United fails to make most of chances Western United was unable to produce enough solid chances as it suffered just its second A-League Men’s loss in the last eight matches. Having put together some strong form in recent weeks as it tries to turn its season around, United faced a tough challenge against the Western Sydney Wanderers on Sunday. The Wanderers scored in the first half through Yeni Ngbakoto and that would be the difference with the Wanderers winning 1-0. It’s just the second match this season that United hasn’t scored. United coach John Aloisi said it’s always tough when you play away from home. He said in the end the Wanderers were the better side and that showed in the result. “You need a little bit going your way,” he said. “What didn’t go our way was the goal. Initially it was off side when they played the ball, [Nikolai] Topor-Stanley had to play at it

and they went and scored from it, “After that when we went to press in the first half, we weren’t pressing well and they were able to play through us at times and get down the other end pretty easily.” “We still got into the final third really easily, our quality let us down in that final third.” Aloisi said they had 12 corners to five which showed they were getting in the right positions and creating chances, but they didn’t play particularly well. He said that was a positive that they were still in the game despite not being anywhere near their best. Aloisi said the heat did have an impact on the side, with Josh Risdon having to leave the ground through heat exhaustion. He said a couple of other players also struggled with the heat. Despite the loss, United, which sits in 11th spot, remains only four points outside of the top six. Aloisi said he was unsure whether they

would add anyone to the list as the transfer window closes this week. United has lost three players in recent weeks, who have signed elsewhere in the competition. He said the side just needs to stay positive. “We know that the season can change quickly with a few wins,” he said. “Sydney FC has shown that we beat them a few weeks ago, now their season has completely changed.” United this week face Adelaide United back at home. Tara Murray

John Aloisi

(Supplied)

Centrals alive, Point Cook, Sharks out

Hannah Keane has been a star for United this season. (Joe Mastroianni) 309000_08

United’s ‘amazing’ start By Tara Murray Western United coach Mark Torcaso wants his playing group to continue to keep a level head as they get into the second half of the A-League Women’s season. Having exceeded all expectations in their debut season with nine wins from their first 10 matches, there’s plenty of excitement surrounding United. Torcaso wasn’t keen to set expectations heading into the season. He said the start they’ve had has been pretty incredible and he’s not setting any limits on what they can achieve. “It’s been pretty amazing to be honest,” he said. “I’m very proud of how fantastic the girls have been. “The whole squad and their application. The results are starting at training, but we can’t get ahead of ourselves. “We take each game and each week as it comes, it’s been so enjoyable.” While many people have been surprised how a large amount of the group had stepped up from the National Premier League Women’s competition, Torcaso is not one of them. Having coached a bulk of the group at Calder United, where they won several trophies, Torcaso expected good things from them. 26 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 8 February, 2023

“Those Calder girls who have come through with me, it has been amazing,” he said. “It’s an unbelievable feeling that these women each week keep going. “They’ve exceeded my expectations. I knew they would adapt to it and they stuck with and were patient, whether they’ve played five minutes or almost every game. “They’re good enough to play in this league.” Many of the players have spoken about the Calder United culture and the impact that has brought to the group. All the players are buying and the results are showing. On field, Hannah Keane has been the star, leading the golden boot award for the highest goal scorer. Having been cut by Melbourne City at the last minute a few years ago, she’s been keen to make her mark. “I knew Hannah had this quality,” Torcaso said. “I was surprised no one had picked her up and I had followed her progress since she was last in Australia. “I kept track of her and said if I ever get to an A-League club, I would contact her as I wanted her to play for me. “She has so much more to give, the surprises are still to come.” United’s early success has seen the club

continue to attract good players in the midseason transfer window, Alana Beard, another to play under Torcaso at Calder, joined the club bringing plenty of experience, as did Danielle Steer, who was playing overseas. Having lost Jessica McDonald back to America with her stint over, the arrivals came at the perfect time. Torcaso said the pair would be important in the run home. Another player Torcaso is hoping will play a big role in the run home is Matildas star Chloe Logarzo. “Chloe has a bit of a foot niggle so she had to pull out of the Matildas camp. Hopefully she can continue her progress so she can be available for the world cup. “Hopefully we’ll see her back on the field in the next few weeks.” As for the second half of the season, nothing changes for Torcaso and the playing group despite being the hunted. United was set to face Perth Glory on Saturday, after deadline. “We want to keep level headed, keep challenging, keep on being a nuisance to the opposition side,” he said. “I keep telling them to be annoying and focus on each week and each game.”

Werribee Centrals’ run in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association T20 competition is alive for another round. In the region 4 knockout group, the Centrals got the win against Gellibrand. Centrals made 6-109 from their overs with Ahmed Sohaib Khan top scoring with 42 at the top of the order. It was all single wicket takers for Gellibrand. Gellibrand started well in the run chase but quickly went from 0-35 to 7-76. Gellibrand would fall seven runs short, finishing 8-103. Usman Ashraf took 3-13 for Centrals. Centrals will face Maribyrnong Park St Marys in the next round, after Maribyrnong Park beat Sanctuary Lakes. Maribyrnong Park made 5-153 from its overs with all the top order making contributions. Jonathan Grant top scored with 34. Shivaay Shiv and James Doolan both took two wickets each for the Sharks. The Sharks started their innings well and were at 2-69. Three quick wickets put the Sharks on the back foot. The Sharks fell short, finishing 7-127. Point Cook faces Yarraville Club were due to play on Thursday, but was postponed to Sunday due to rain. Point Cook made 8-108, with the Clubbers making the runs with more than two overs remaining. The Clubbers finished 5-109. Meanwhile, Hoppers Crossing’s campaign is over in the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association T20 competition. After the match didn’t go ahead last week due to rain, the Cats headed to Preston to face Preston. Preston was sent in and made 6-182 from its overs. Skipper Michael Stretton top scored with 59. Jeremy Swan and Shijit Chandran took two wickets each for the Cats. The Cats got off to a solid start but lost four wickets to go from 1-87 to 5-92. The Cats lower order fought back, but it wasn’t enough, with the Cats finishing 9-152. Chandran top scored with 55 for the Cats. Endeavour Hills beat St Bernard’s OC in the other semi final played on Tuesday, to join Preston, Brighton and Spotswood in the final four.

Tarneit United joins state league

Werribee’s men’s team on their pre-season camp.

Tarneit United will have a state league side this season. (Supplied)

“They’ll want to play seniors in the next few years.” With the club fielding an under-17 team, Farah said most of the young players would still play in that side. He said some might get an opportunity in the reserves. The club was set to play a practice match on Saturday, while their first official match is in the first round of the Australia Cup this week. The club has been drawn to face Doreen United in the first round. There’s mixed emotions for Farah and the club ahead of the moment they’ve been waiting for, for so long. “We’re pretty excited, but also a bit nervous,”

he said. “It’s a big commitment. “Anything can happen with the magic of football. We want to get them out there. We don’t want to have a senior program for only one year, it’s about the future as well. “We can’t wait.” Farah said the club was still looking for volunteers along with coaches. He said the club was still growing. In other round one matches in the Australia Cup, West Point, which knocked off a state league 1 side on the way to the fourth round, will face the Waverley Wanderers. Wyndham will play the Glenroy Lions and the Truganina Hornets will play Boronia. Tara Murray

(Supplied)

Bitten by coaching bug By Tara Murray New Werribee men’s hockey coach Brendan Denning returned to coaching in a temporary role last season and soon found that the coaching bug had returned. So when Werribee found out he had the desire to coach at the highest level he could, things quickly fell into place. Denning said he was excited to get back into coaching on a full time basis with the Vic league 1 side. “I only got back into coaching last year after a long time,” he said. “I have three boys and none of them are big on hockey. “I was coaching them in their chosen sports, cricket and soccer. I ended up in a maternity role at Hawthorn last year, a premier league club, and had a really enjoyable year. “I got bitten by the bug and wanted to coach at the highest level possible.” Denning has plenty of coaching experience

The local derby between Hoppers Crossing and Werribee ended in a draw, but more could still come from the match in the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association east-west. Rain leading into day two of the match meant the game, like many others in the division, didn’t go ahead on Saturday. Teams in those matches shared the points and with a close competition, every point is vital. Star Weekly understands concerns have been raised about the wicket at Chirnside Park not being covered properly in the lead up to the match. Hoppers Crossing president Greg Mitchell said they were waiting to hear back from the association in relation to whether anything else will happen. “Until the association asks us to provide information, there’s not much other than that,” he said. “It’s out of our hands and the association will do their thing. “They’re our nearest rivals and the game at Hogans Reserve was able to be played. It’s a bit disappointing that there was no game played at Chirnside Park.” As of Monday morning the result in MyCricket was still unofficial. The Cats had made 5-315 on day one of the vital match. Both teams are fighting for finals spots. Despite the match not being played on the weekend, the Cats sit in third spot, one of five teams in the top six equal on points. The Tigers, who are one of those teams, sit in sixth spot. Endeavour Hills, which is in 10th, is just a game behind second place, showing how close the competition is. Mitchell said they were more worried about what they could control, which is their upcoming match with Spotswood, which sits atop the ladder. Elsewhere in the VSDCA on Saturday, just three matches went ahead in the east-west. Melton, Balwyn and Spotswood were the teams to come away with the six points. Tara Murray

both in Victoria and in Western Australia, where he is originally from. He’s been involved in coaching state teams and premier league sides in both states. Denning said his knowledge of Werribee isn’t great just yet, but knows it’s about to become his second home. “It’s a blank canvas for me,” he said. “I know some people who play at Werribee and there’s other people I’ve never seen before. “I see that as a positive for me. I get to know who they all are and see where it takes us. “I’m getting my head around everything, it’s been a bit of a change.” Denning said there had been some changes to the squad like there is every year. He said the departure of goalkeeper and Victorian under-18 goalkeeper Campbell Bowden was the biggest one. He has joined a premier league side with aspirations to play at a higher level. Denning said it is a little bit challenging

attracting players to Werribee. He said the club needs to find where it sits in the landscape. He said what they want to achieve this season will come later in the process, but said Werribee people are expecting to play finals. “We need to find our niche and where we want to be in the hockey landscape,” he said. “Do we want to be a premier league team, fantastic. Or do we want to be a Vic league side, that’s great. “We need to work together. The next 12 to 24 months will be really important with four teams dropping down from the premier league.” The Tigers spent the weekend away at a pre-season camp in Anglesea, giving the side the opportunity to bond and gel together. Speaking before the camp, Denning said he had been looking forward to the time away with the group.

Werribee Football Club Monday 27th February 2023 6.00pm at Werribee Football Club AGENDA 1. Confirmation of 2021 AGM minutes 2. Financial statements for year ended October 31, 2022 3. Presentation of 2022 Annual Report 4. Election of Directors 5. General business *All nominations shall be in writing; signed by the candidate; signed by two club members (full member, life member); and delivered to the CEO by no later than Monday, 13th February 2023. Nomination forms are available by contacting the WFC office on (03) 9741 6688. Proxy voting is also available by sending a written nomination to the club by no later than Monday, 20th February 2023. at the below address: WERRIBEE FOOTBALL CLUB PO BOX 2049, WERRIBEE VIC 3030

12586313-ET05-23

It’s been years in the making, but Tarneit United will finally have a FV state league’s men’s team this year. Having formed in 2014, the club has fielded sides in the lower metropolitan leagues along with having a junior program. Now with some extra players in their program, Tarneit has been successful in its application to have a side in the state league 5 west competition. Tarneit president Burhan Farah said they were excited to have finally reached this milestone in the club’s history. “It’s been a long time coming,” he said. “We’ve had metro sides the last few years, but now we’ve finally been accepted. “You need to have a lot of numbers to have both seniors and reserves and we’ve been able to build the numbers up.” Farah said the main reason for wanting to move into the state league competition was to provide a pathway for their juniors. He said down the track they wanted to have a women’s side as well. “We wanted to have something for the juniors,” he said. “Our 16 and 17-year-old kids, we’ve had to tell them to go to other places. Now we have a program for them. “Our under-16s won the north-west last season, they are doing really well.

Local rivalry ends in draw

Wednesday, 8 February, 2023 WYNDHAM STAR WEEKLY 27

PALE

HOPPERS CROSSING CARPET COURT 192 Old Geelong Rd, Hoppers Crossing VIC 3029 P 9749 3811

You must be a Qantas Frequent Flyer member to earn Qantas Points. Members will earn 1 Qantas Point per $1 spent on retail flooring and window furnishing products purchased from Hoppers Crossing Carpet Court or online. Full terms and conditions available at www.carpetcourt.com.au/qantas-frequent-flyer 12582414-ET06-23