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Flood of memories Maribyrnong was one of the hardest hit suburbs during the devastating 2022 floods. Among those who witnessed their homes being inundated by flood waters, were Maribyrnong resident Paul Lau and his daughter Stephanie Wonglau. Twelve months on, the family is still struggling to get back on its feet. Jennifer Pittorino speaks to Mr Lau and others who are still rebuilding their lives 12 months on. ■ Special coverage: Pages 5-8
Paul Lau and Stephanie Wonglau. (Jacob Pattison) 365577_06
‘Another kick in the guts’ By Jennifer Pittorino Hobsons Bay council is sticking by its decision to evict the residents of Williamstown’s Techno Park despite a petition with 20,000 signatures asking that residents be allowed to stay. Six months have passed since Techno Park residents were delivered eviction notices in their mailboxes on May 18, stating they were living illegally in an industrial zone and need to find alternative accommodation. On Wednesday, October 11, Hobsons Bay council responded to a petition from Techno
Park residents, voting in favour of eviction as recommended by council officers. The petition urging Hobsons Bay council to stop the mass eviction of the more than 100 residents who are living on Industrial 1 zoned land, has now amassed more than 20,000 signatures. The petition was intended to be heard at Tuesday’s council meeting, when mid-way through the meeting the gallery full of Techno Park residents was notified the discussion involving Techno Park and the petition would be held ‘in-camera’ behind closed doors. The decision to make the discussion private
was made, “following correspondence received on October 9, from a lawyer representing some Techno Park stakeholders advising that legal proceedings would shortly be lodged,” council said in a media statement. “The recommendations contained in the published council agenda were adopted, along with two additional recommendations relating to communicating the decision quickly.” The council officer recommendations state that council cannot withdraw the May letter, as council is obligated to execute its responsibilities under the Planning and Environment Act 1987,
and the site is not suitable for residential use. In the same recommendation, council said it will support the establishment of a Techno Park Housing Solutions group. Council said this group will bring together local service providers, key state government agencies, Williamstown MP Melissa Horne, Techno Park stakeholders, council, and others as needed. “To work to identify opportunities and develop alternative safe and secure housing solutions for people currently living in Techno Park,” it said. ■ Turn to page 2
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Cricket opportunities hit for six By Jennifer Pittorino In a bid to level the playing field for young talent, the Altona Sports Club has launched a fully funded junior cricket sports program, providing underprivileged children from the western suburbs with a unique opportunity. The club said it had responded to the financial barriers faced by many families following the challenges posed by the pandemic. “This initiative ensures that no child, regardless of their socio-economic or cultural
background, misses out on the chance to reap the benefits of participating in sport,” it said. Altona Sports Club general manager Gavin Comport said the club is proud to introduce this initiative. “Sport is a universal right and not a privilege. Our goal is to ensure that every child, irrespective of their background, gets a fair chance,” said Mr Comport. “Our program has already enabled 50 children, 30 per cent of whom are junior girls, to embrace the game of cricket, perhaps for the first time in their lives.
Participants will be provided with a personal kit and uniform, as well as the chance to be mentored by ex-professional cricketers. Community Clubs Victoria (CCV) chief executive Andrew Lloyd said the Altona Sports Club’s implementation of the fully funded junior cricket program demonstrated the values that CCV strives to encompass. “Every child deserves an opportunity, and background should never be a limiting factor”, said Mr Lloyd. “The Altona Sports Club’s forward-thinking
initiative stands as a testament to this belief.” The club is proud to have recently received the Cricket Victoria Junior Initiative of the Year award. The club said after a 25-year hiatus in junior cricket, this marks as a significant achievement in the Club’s history. With aspirations to bring 150 junior players under this program’s wing by next year, the Altona Sports Club is dedicated to ensuring as many children as possible from the Altona community are participating in team sport.
‘Another kick in the guts’ ■ From page 1
OzChild is hosting an Open Day on Saturday, October 21. (Jacob Pattison) 365947_02
Fostering change for needy children Leading foster care agency OzChild invites all families, singles, and couples to Yarraville on Saturday, October 21 for its information open day. OzChild is dedicated to improving the lives of vulnerable children by delivering quality services to families to lives of at-risk children, young people and families in the west. The open day will provide opportunities for attendees to speak with foster carers to understand the process of becoming a foster carer. In addition to bringing the community together for learning, children will be able to enjoy the arts and crafts corner, a petting zoo
and a sausage sizzle. OzChild chief executive chief executive Dr Lisa J. Griffiths said the open day will be a wonderful opportunity for people to talk with their staff and meet carers to hear first hand about their experiences and learn what being a foster carer is all about. “Right now, across western Melbourne there are many children in desperate need of a permanent place to call home,” said Ms Griffiths. “Way too many kids are growing up away from family, residing in group homes with other children they don’t know, and of varying ages, supervised by youth workers rather than
having the attention of parental figures. “Without the stability of a family home many become disconnected from school and the community leading to a lifetime of disadvantage. “I encourage anyone wanting to make a difference in your local community to attend our Yarraville open day, with so many kids in need carers are in high demand.” The event will begin at 10am until 2pm at 6 Campbell Street, Yarraville. Details: ozchild.org.au.
Hobsons Bay Mayor Tony Briffa said council understands why some of the owners and tenants of Techno Park have exercised their right to take legal action against council. “Unfortunately, this meant that council’s discussion about the petition needed to be confidential to protect everyone’s legal rights,” said Cr Briffa. “I’m pleased the report remained publicly available and that I can now let people know about council’s decision. “I look forward to all parties genuinely working together in the Techno Park Housing Solutions Group to help people live in appropriate, safe and secure housing.” Techno Park resident John O’Hagan said the events at the council meeting and the days following were “another kick in the guts” for him and his family. “The so-called ‘Techno Park Housing Solutions Group’ the council claims to be setting up is just a re-branding of their existing plan to force people from their homes,” said Mr O’Hagan. “They are completely ignoring residents’ pleas to work with them to find solutions that allow people to stay in their homes, and rigging the game by ruling out any such solutions in advance. “They hide behind phoney legal reasons, pretending they can’t answer questions or debate Techno Park publicly, but are somehow able to issue a press release dressing up the mass eviction as some kind of public service.”
Jennifer Pittorino
Team award after dramatic pool rescue A team of well-trained lifeguards and staff members at Victoria University of Sport have been recognised with an Everyday Lifesaver award for their quick-thinking actions which saved a man’s life. The team banded together to save a non-responsive patron on April 3, 2022. Anish Sathyan, who had no history of medical conditions and no warning leading up to the incident, suffered a cardiac arrest while swimming laps in the Victorian University Aquatic Centre. Life Saving Victoria said Mr Sathyan had only been in the pool a couple of minutes when the incident occurred.
When another swimmer noticed the man in distress, he tried to assist. When a lifeguard saw Mr Sathyan was in trouble other staff responded by clearing the area of other patrons and calling emergency services. Mr Sathyan was pulled out of the pool on a spinal board and was unresponsive. The lifeguard and management staff checked his breathing and commenced CPR and defibrillation until he started breathing again and emergency services arrived to transport him to hospital. The team was given the award which recognises outstanding bystander rescues undertaken in a safe manner that don’t put
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the rescuer at risk. The award is given by the Play It Safe By The Water (PISBTW) committee to people who have used their lifesaving and water safety skills to perform a significant rescue. Victoria University sport facilities manager Rohenna Young said the team’s collaboration and efficiency was an integral part of making this a non- fatal incident. “The team response was incredible, it really shows the importance of the whole team of lifeguards and staff, and what a difference working together makes in an emergency situation.”
From left, Taylah Daffy, Ian Pearce, Luke McCartney, Jeff Schwarz, Mimi Craig, Patrick Tam and Logan Paterson. (Supplied)
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Spotswood heritage protected By Jennifer Pittorino Hobsons Bay council voted to adopt a controversial Spotswood Heritage Amendment which will protect sites of heritage significance in the suburb. At a meeting on Tuesday, October 11, councillors adopted the amendment which will make changes to heritage overlays supported by an independent planning panel. Councillor Daria Kellander was the only councillor who voted against the amendment, on the basis that she has spent a lot of time speaking with members of the community who are unhappy with the heritage overlay.
“We should fully support protecting examples of places that have outstanding architectural and historical merit,” said Cr Kellander. “But these more recent overlays add further financial burden to both the homeowner and the home buyer and deny our community with choice to adapt to current needs, like the original owners had. All during a cost of living and housing affordability crisis.” As reported by Star Weekly, earlier this year many Spotswood residents were upset with the prospect of a heritage overlay being imposed over their homes, fearing this would impact property values and limit what work
they could do to their own home. Councillor Peter Hemphill was one of five councillors to support the admendment saying he is “very supportive of heritage.” Cr Hemphill like Cr Kellander said members of the community have been voicing their concerns, one of which was the effect on property values. “One point raised was what impact this would have on property values, I’ll make a simple point,” he said. “We have heritage overlays in Williamstown and Newport, and property value is something which hasn’t stopped them from decreasing, they continue to rise.
“If you’re in one of these heritage areas, you would have to abide by the rules that would be now set.” Councillor Pamela Sutton-Leguad said anyone who has purchased a house in a heritage overlay area knows what they’re buying and it is not a surprise. “There have been several opportunities for the community to look at the documents, come along to consultation sessions and give their feedback,” she said. “This is one of the areas where we’ve spent a lot of time talking to the community.If we don’t protect what’s left of our heritage, then it will just disappear.”
Maribyrnong girls can Maribyrnong council’s Girls Can program encouraged women to get active in October. The inclusive program encouraged all those who identify as women from all cultural backgrounds and abilities to get active via a program of activities like roller derby, kanga training and Bollywood dancing, as well as yoga, HIIT class and pilates. Active Maribyrnong partnered with VicHealth to celebrate the This Girl Can campaign across Maribyrnong. In addition, council’s Spring into Summer Series will also return from Monday, October 30, until December 3. Open to everyone, the free five-week series covers all levels of fitness and age groups. Council said it is designed to not only encourage residents to get outdoors in local open spaces, but also showcase a range of the facilities and activities on offer across the city.
Registrations opened on Monday, October 16, for the Spring into Summer series. Mayor Sarah Carter said, “As we activate Maribyrnong and bring back our much-loved Spring into Summer Series, we are also pleased to be a part of the new This Girl Can campaign which comes to our city for the first time this October”. “Collectively, these programs will enable all of us to add some extra movement into our day with a diverse range of activities on offer.”
Jess, Scharlaine, Nehad, Mayor Sarah Carter, Maria and Abigael. (Jacob Pattison) 363545_01
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From left, deputy vice-chancellor external relations and partnerships Wade Noonan, Professor Alex Parker, Aymaan, Ihaab, Benjamin, WB community foundation and government relations general manager Kashif Bouns, Qudsiyya, and chief student officer Michelle Gillespie. (Supplied)
A healthy partnership By Jennifer Pittorino At least 600 secondary school students a year will benefit from a new partnership between Victoria University (VU) and the Western Bulldogs Community Foundation (WB Community Foundation). The new initiative called ‘The WB Community Foundation School Workshops, with VU as the Presenting Partner’, will deliver workshops focused on mental health and resilience. Other workshops will focus on leadership skills development, education pathways, employment pathways, social responsibility, gender equity and goal setting. Each school will select the number of co-designed sessions and topics best suited to the needs of the students, which are then
presented by experienced professionals from WB Community Foundation and VU. VU vice-chancellor Professor Adam Shoemaker said he was proud to confirm the partnership. “Beyond our deep, shared history of delivering accessible programs tailored to the needs of the west, we have a united vision for the future, one that is committed to addressing inequity in all its forms,” he said. WB Community Foundation community and government relations general manager Kashif Bouns, said the partnership could not have arrived at a better time. “At the WB Community Foundation, we take pride in delivering evidence-based programs co- designed in consultation with our community,” he said. “This has been made possible through our
long- standing partnership with VU. “It’s truly wonderful to deepen this collaboration, creating more opportunities for young people in Melbourne’s west through customised school workshops.” VU and WB Community Foundation have previously collaborated on a number of projects which have been tailored for the west. Some include research into the WB Community Foundation initiatives, the Sons of the West and Daughters of the West, as well as the WB Community Foundation CALDplay program. There will also be exciting new opportunities for VU students to ‘learn in the workplace,’ with a number of work integrated learning (WIL) placements to enhance opportunities for students working in social work, community services and youth work.
Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) has a free service for everyone who grows vegetables at home called GardenSafe. GardenSafe is a soil screening service that evaluates garden soil and sends you a report on soil condition and whether there are any contaminants present. EPA Victoria chief environmental scientist professor Mark Patrick Taylor said the service is especially important in areas affected by the 2022/23 floods, for residents whose property has been affected by flood sediment or runoff, and for the scientific research the program supports. Participants can send in three soil samples with the only cost being postage, and EPA scientists will assess them for trace elements and soil quality indicators including composition, nutrients and organic carbon. GardenSafe will send you a report on your garden soil, and advice as to what to do next. The report will be a guide to the quality of your soil and how to get the best out of your garden, and the data will help EPA to understand the state of soil in residential gardens across Victoria, especially in flood affected areas. GardenSafe is on the EPA website epa.vic.gov.au and it is open to any residential gardener in Victoria.
West wagon carries on From humble beginnings in 2013, West Welcome Wagon (WWW) will mark its 10 year anniversary this month. The organisation now supports over 2,700 clients from 42 different countries, and has distributed more than 12,000 material goods and assistance this year alone. West Welcome Wagon chair Chris Scerri has been part of the organisation for seven years. He said the 10 year milestone is an opportunity to recognise those who established the organisation, and those who have helped it flourish and grow ‘beyond all expectations’. “I joined [WWW] in 2016, initially through a donation to the organisation followed by a desire to help people seeking asylum and refugees settle into their homes in the western suburbs of Melbourne,” he said. Over the years, Mr Scerri said WWW has been able to establish a warehouse that has enabled the organisation to store more donations, and efficiently support more
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people in the west. “One constant has been the support of our western suburbs community and fantastic support from a core group of committed volunteers,” said Mr Scerri. To celebrate the occasion, WWW is looking for support from the local community to help raise critical funds needed to keep the wheels of the organisation turning. West Welcome Wagon’s 10th anniversary fundraising event will take place at the Seaview in Williamstown on Thursday, October 26, from 6-9pm. Tickets are $100. Mr Scerri said the night will feature a silent auction, merchandise to purchase, and donations will be accepted throughout the evening. “Invitation is open to all who would like to celebrate our past successes and contribute to our future sustainability,” he said. Details: https://shorturl.at/akHX0 Hannah Hammoud
Colette McInerney, Jude Twyman, Patrick Massaguoi and Chris Scerri at the West Welcome Wagon warehouse. (Damjan Janevski) 350127_01
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2022 FLOODS ONE YEAR ON
Flood drama ignites past trauma By Cassandra Morgan and Callum Godde, AAP Residents of an Avondale Heights retirement village fear their homes are worthless after mismanaged floods forced them out of their community and left them traumatised. Rivervue Retirement Village resident Stanislaw Korkliniewski became emotional on Thursday October 12 while reflecting on fleeing war-torn Germany as a child with his parents, with nothing but a suitcase and wooden storage box. He and his family lived in overcrowded displaced person camps - a trauma that came back to him on October 14, 2022 when the sense of relief he initially felt moving into Rivervue was replaced with panic. “The day the floods came rushing at around 9am, there was no warning whatsoever,“ Mr Korkliniewski told a parliamentary inquiry examining the 2022 disaster. “Our haven was gone in an instant and we were left homeless ... once again, with nothing but a suitcase over my head, my wife beside me, uncertain of the outcome.“ Mr Korkliniewski, who gave evidence at the inquiry alongside fellow Rivervue resident Colin Waters, said the community was later shocked to find out Rivervue’s owner and manager Tigcorp did not have the insurance to move all residents into temporary accommodation. The company paid for emergency accommodation for 37 residents for two and a half weeks, but retirees otherwise had to pay for it themselves or move into the government-owned Mickleham quarantine facility. Mr Korkliniewski couldn’t face that prospect and ended up forking out about $9000 for accommodation over the coming
Rivervue Retirement Village was inundated in the October 2022 flood. (Supplied)
months, while he and Mr Waters feared their homes were worthless after the floods. Melbourne Water’s flood modelling completely underestimated the risk to Rivervue, a failure the agency has acknowledged. About 70 Rivervue residents were forced out of their homes when 47 properties at the village were inundated. Tigcorp finance general manager Darren Lewis later told the inquiry the company felt severely let down after the villas flooded, given it bought the site in 2010 with a planning
permit and endorsed plans already in place. The company relied on Melbourne Water’s modelling and relayed information about flooding to residents based on that, Mr Lewis said. He did not rule out legal action against Melbourne Water and said Tigcorp was keeping an open mind. “We’re as equally aggrieved (as residents) because from our point of view, we’ve done nothing wrong,“ Mr Lewis said. Tigcorp was planning further development at Rivervue but six metres above
the flood level. The inquiry was told outdated modelling was behind the slow escalation of flood warnings along Maribyrnong River before hundreds of homes were inundated. Maribyrnong Community Recovery Committee chair Madeleine Serle said about 1500 residents in 600 homes were affected and about 80 homes were condemned. “At this point in time, we’re at about 50 per cent occupancy,“ Ms Serle said. “The remaining 50 per cent, like myself, are basically camping in unrestored homes as we negotiate insurance, delays and (other issues). “We are hiding in plain sight.“ Victorian State Emergency Service chief operations officer Tim Wiebusch earlier explained to the inquiry how authorities were caught off-guard by the severity of flooding along the river. Warnings for moderate flooding were sent out from October 12 before door-knocking of about 115 at-risk homes began, based on the scenarios provided by the Bureau of Meteorology and Melbourne Water. “What then ensued on that Thursday night and into the early hours of Friday obviously was quite a significant rainfall event, with just on 100mm to 130mm across the catchment,“ Mr Wiebusch told the inquiry. Warnings were escalated on Friday morning as the projected river peak was revised to 3.2m, prompting police and SES to doorknock another 200 homes from about 3am. The Maribyrnong River eventually peaked at 4.216m. Mr Wiebusch said the warnings were based on the best modelling and forecasting at the time. Melbourne Water is working with Rivervue on a site-specific flood management plan.
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2022 FLOODS ONE YEAR ON STARWEEKLY.COM.AU
Nightmare still on Clyde Street By Jennifer Pittorino Maribyrnong resident Paul Lau said the events of October 14, 2022 still remain vivid in his mind, images he describes as a “horror movie”. “We are still struggling with this traumatic event. We had never experienced anything like this before,” Paul said, almost one year on from the day his home flooded. “Every time we see rain it brings up trauma and anxiety.” Paul and his wife Jackie Wong migrated from Vietnam in 1985 and, until last year, they have lived in the same home on Clyde Street since 1990. Their daughter Stephanie Wonglau said the last year had been challenging for them all, the hardest part of which has been watching her parents lose so much. “Their home is symbolic of so much, being former refugees from Vietnam, this experience has been quite traumatising and triggering their lived experiences of displacement,” said Stephanie. “People have lost everything, my parents have lost everything. “My parents have lost a significant majority of their possessions that they’ve accrued over 30 years. They have lived in that home for so many years, and in a day it was all gone.” In the early hours of that October day, Paul recalls he and his wife were awoken by the SES moments before water infiltrated their home. “I rushed to remove my cars and what I
Paul Lau with his daughter Stephanie Wonglau.(Jacob Pattison)365577_09
could to high ground and by the time I ran home the water was starting to come in.” Paul describes the following events as shocking. “The water started coming up from the floorboards. I watched my TV get submerged and couldn’t do anything.” Paul said he and his wife frantically attempted to save their belongings for as long as they could as the water rose around them,
exhausting them to collapse. For the past year, Paul and his wife have been living in temporary accommodation, a rental property which Stephanie found for them. “That has been reimbursed by insurance but not without challenge,” she said. For most affected families, dealing with insurance has been one of the biggest challenges, something Paul describes as extremely stressful.
A year of reflection after floods loss By .Jennifer Pittorino It took the Footscray Rugby Union club less than one year to have their club and pavilion rebuilt after the October 2022 floods “destroyed” everything. “We had no warning prior to the flood happening, we heard through the community that the club had flooded,” said president Charlie Sale. “We pretty much lost everything, from the kitchen contents all the way through to the memorabilia that dates back to 1948 when the club was established. “That included photos of veterans from World War 2, all our equipment and uniforms, so we had to start fresh again.” Charlie said although the flood was devastating, it gave the club a chance to reflect. “As sad as the flooding was, it was also a blessing because it gave us an opportunity to step back and start again.” The new Henry Turner South Pavilion opened for use on July 23, built on the southern perimeter of the reserve further away from the river to reduce any impacts from potential future flooding. Jointly funded by the state government and Maribyrnong council, the $8 million project will service not only Charlie’s club but the Western Crusaders Gridiron Club and Footscray Cricket Club also. “The new club rooms have given us facilities where we can have hot showers and utilise the kitchen to cook for our community which has been really great for us.” The new pavilion includes four large change rooms, umpire change spaces, a commercial kitchen, a large multipurpose social room, meeting space, enhanced spectator seating, and public toilets. The previous clubs had been theirs since the 1980’s, located close to Maribyrnong River, which Charlie said was situated in a “flooding zone”. For this reason the club received no insurance help to replace everything that was lost. “We had no help from anyone, we have basically been on our own.” Charlie said the club was able to purchase equipment and uniforms for both junior and senior teams, furniture, and all
Footscray Rugby Union Club President Charlie Sale. (Jacob Pattison)365519_11
appliancesthemselves with hard work by overcoming challenges and obstacles. “My wife and I , as well as the committee members, brainstormed on how to make the club a family club again. “With the help of some sponsors and community members we were able to get
6 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 18 October, 2023
everything back up and running again.” Charlie feels the club has come full circle winning the grand final this year, giving the club its first premiership since the 1930’s. “To see all three senior teams in the top four for the first time, was a great achievement.”
“We don’t have the experience to deal with the insurance claim process, no one ever explained anything us including the whole process,” he said. “It is traumatic enough to deal with the flood, to go through the insurance claim process is another thing. “It has been a year and we don’t know when we will be back.” A year on and Stephanie said her parents still need help to get back on their feet. “They need insurance, council and governments to understand that they have been significantly displaced,“ she said. “This has had wide reaching impacts on their well being, physical and mental health. “What we need is change. A genuine, concerted effort to manage a long standing climate issue to make sure that this doesn’t happen again.” Although this has been an incredibly tough year for Paul and his wife, he said he owes so much to his community. “I would like to say a big thank you to the people on Flood Warriors Facebook Group, I am really grateful for their help,“ he said multiple times. “I am indebted to them, and I wish I could do anything to repay them. I would love to meet these people and If I had a chance thank them in person. “My wife and I would be nowhere without our daughter, she has helped us more than we can thank her for.”
Fill out the flood survey In the early hours of Friday October 14, 2022, the Maribyrnong River burst its banks and caused widespread devastation. More than 500 homes and businesses in Maribyrnong, in the federal electorate of Fraser, were flooded. Nearly 12 months on, the trauma for many people remains. Fraser MP Dr Daniel Mulino said the aftermath of the Maribyrnong River flood have continued to have a huge impact on the lives of many thousands of Australians. “My staff are still advocating for residents who have outstanding claims with their insurance companies,“ he said. “Meanwhile, they are also trying to rebuild their lives, which is difficult when claims haven’t been settled.” Dr Mulino said that this was one reason the inquiry recently announced by the federal the government was so important. The House Standing Committee on Economics, which Dr Mulino chairs, will investigate insurers’ responses to the major flood events in 2022. To kick off the inquiry, an online survey has been launched to hear from people who were affected by the floods. “It is really important that people participate in the survey. “I urge people to complete the survey because it is important that committee members have a really good understanding of people’s experiences with their insurance companies. “Their evidence will inform our discussions and questions throughout the inquiry and help guide our recommendations.” Details: https://www.aph.gov.au/ floodinsurance
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2022 FLOODS ONE YEAR ON
Family still homeless a year on By Jennifer Pittorino One year ago on October 14, 2022 Alison Baumgart and her family were not prepared to evacuate their home of eight years, but were faced with no choice when the Maribyrnong River flooded their quiet street. Only after Alison noticed the build up of water and sewage down her street did she and her partner Shannon decide to pack up their three young children and flee. “We asked the SES team if we needed to worry, they said no,” Alison said, reflecting on the past year. “We were informed it would be minor to moderate flooding, and there was no need for concern. “We were still loading up the kids and some valuables when the water started coming up over the tyres.” Alison, Shannon and their kids, aged two, four and seven at the time, have been living in a rental for the past year like many of the other hundreds of flood victims. Her concern now is what will happen after the one year insurance cover for a rental expires. “I have challenged the insurance and asked them to extend the policy because of the delays, I am yet to hear back. So I am not sure where we are going to stay. “My kids ask where we are going to live? Is this where we are going to live forever? When will we be moving? and I just don’t know.” In the midst of her regular routine of school drop offs, work and extracurricular activities, Alison said the past year had been long and hard. “The kids are extremely unsettled. As we speak right now it’s still 12 months on and still absolutely nothing’s been done.
Alison Baumgart in the shell of her home. (Damjan Janevski) 365284_02
“Insurance has been disgusting, there is no better word for it other than disgusting. “They are not interested, we are just another file they will get to.” One thing Alison said she is looking forward to is flood mitigation for the Maribyrnong area.
“It’s definitely something that we need to promote and get through. We can’t keep on having so many homes affected by floods that are ultimately caused by the authorities from their lack of planning and authorising things that probably shouldn’t have been authorised.” Alison said there is no other option but for
Community stands strong together The Maribyrnong Community Recovery Committee recently announced a new initiative for flood affected residents. The committee intends to help individuals involved in the emergency flood response to apply for scholarships through the Emergency Services Foundation. The ESF scholarship program provides opportunities for both paid staff and volunteer members of the Victorian Emergency Services to undertake a study tour that will lead to improvements in Victoria’s emergency management sector. Maribyrnong Community Recovery Committee chair Madeleine Serle said she will also continue to push for an all agency review of the floods. Ms Serle appeared before the Legislative Council’s Environment and Planning Committee Enquiry into the 2022 Flood Event in Victoria. She said it was a “privilege to put forward the views and experiences of the flooded residents in Maribyrnong”. “I wanted to convey the continuing community distress but also our reasonable expectations for change,” she said. “As residents on our own recovery journey, we know we must build resiliency for future flood events. Australia spends a fortune on disasters, but 97 per cent on recovery and 3 per cent on prevention. This is insane and we have to change to spend more on prevention.” Ms Serle said she is committed to bringing residents, community groups and government together for better flood preparedness. “Living here beside Mirrangbamurn, the Maribyrnong River, we have a reasonable right to better government policy and action for our flood resilience,” she said. “I was encouraged by the thoughtful attention and questions I faced. Like thousands of other flooded Victorians, I am putting my
Maribyrnong Community Recovery Committee chair Madeleine Serle. (Damjan Janevski) 353131_02
trust in diligent work by the committee to reveal hard truths and gain valuable insights into the flood event. “I look forward to strong recommendations for change that will enable my own community
in Maribyrnong , and Victoria in general , to improve flood resilience”. h t t p s : // e s f . c o m . a u / o u r - r e s e a r c h / esf-scholarships/ - Jennifer Pittorino
it to be fixed. “I am looking forward to the insurance inquiry as I know there are alot of people who have had a lot of hardship with insurance. “I hope it will be resolved and pushed forward in the right direction as soon as possible.”
Council stands by residents As Maribyrnong reflects on the first anniversary of the Maribyrnong floods, council said it recognises what a challenging time it has been for the community and continues to be for many residents, 12 months on. More than 500 properties were impacted when the Maribyrnong River breached its banks in October 2022. Hundreds of residents were displaced, with many still unable to return to their homes and others managing ongoing challenges with insurance and repairs. In acknowledging the immediate response from the community, Mayor Sarah Carter said she is also conscious there is still work to be done. “A year ago our community experienced a devastating blow with hundreds of residents’ lives turned upside down in a matter of hours,” she said. “The rallying grass-root response by our community at the time was phenomenal and there have since been colossal and ongoing efforts to aid in the recovery, but we still have a long way to go. “We stand with our residents and all those who were affected by the flood and understand that the one-year mark, compounds the trauma experienced by many. “We continue to be here for those still struggling to make a safe return to their homes and are working with all levels of our community and government to do all that we can to ensure new safeguards are in place to mitigate against any future flooding of the Maribyrnong River.”
Wednesday, 18 October, 2023 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 7
2022 FLOODS ONE YEAR ON STARWEEKLY.COM.AU
Inquiry hears of warning failure Outdated modelling was behind the slow escalation of flood warnings along Melbourne’s Maribyrnong River before hundreds of homes were inundated, a parliamentary inquiry into last year’s Victoria floods has been told. Victorian State Emergency Service chief officer of operations Tim Wiebusch explained on Thursday October 12 how authorities were caught off guard by the severity of flooding along the river in October 2022.Warnings for moderate flooding were sent out from October 12 before door-knocking of about 115 at-risk homes began, based on the scenarios provided
by the Bureau of Meteorology and Melbourne Water. “What then ensued on that Thursday night and into the early hours of Friday obviously was quite a significant rainfall event, with just on 100mm to 130mm across the catchment,” Mr Wiebusch told the inquiry. Warnings were escalated on Friday morning as the projected river peak was revised to 3.2m, prompting police and SES to doorknock another 200 homes from about 3am. Phone alerts were also issued as the forecast river peak continued to grow. The Maribyrnong
River eventually peaked at 4.216m. Mr Wiebusch, who led the state’s response to the devastating floods, said the warnings were based on the best modelling and forecasting at the time. “Because of the flows that were seen through the Keilor gauge, they’ve (Melbourne Water) now updated their rating tables,” he said. “And so we may have seen a different set of arrangements with warnings if you were to replay that event now, based on the fact that there’s more intelligence to inform future modelling.”
Mr Wiebusch pushed back on suggestions the SES should be stripped of its lead agency role for future floods. “If you look at the history of what we’ve been able to do since the 2010/11 floods ... and then what our people were able to affect during the (2022) floods - responding to over 20,000 requests for assistance, undertaking 15,000 flood rescues and working with such a wide section of our emergency services - ... we’ve demonstrated we can bring that together when it’s needed,” he said. -AAP
Rebuild help
Flood damaged street in Maribyrnong. (Joe Mastroianni). 304529_05
River is a lifeline for the ecosystem The Maribyrnong River and Waterways Association has issued a response to the recent findings from the Melbourne Water flood inquiry. Maribyrnong coordinator Dr Nicole Kowalczy said the organisation acknowledges the necessity of effective flood mitigation and management, in tandem with protections and actions that restore the river to full health. “The Maribyrnong River is not merely a body of water; it is a lifeline for our ecosystem, a sanctuary for biodiversity, and a source of immeasurable beauty and cultural significance,” said Ms Kowalczy. “In times when we tend to rely on dams and levees to shield us from floods, it is crucial to remember that these structures can sometimes provide a false sense of security. “Yes, dams and levees may reduce the frequency of floods, but they can exacerbate the consequences of large floods by encouraging urban expansion into floodplains.“ Ms Kowalczy said the ecological consequences of dams cannot be overlooked. “They can disrupt the river’s natural flow, harm aquatic habitats, and negatively impact the delicate balance of our ecosystem.” MRWA said it believes it is essential to explore alternatives that prioritise both flood mitigation, management, and environmental preservation. Nature-based solutions, such as wetland restoration, soil regeneration to increase the absorptive capacity of soils in the Maribyrnong catchment, and tighter planning controls, offer additional avenues to mitigate flood risks while nurturing the health of the Maribyrnong River. “The fundamentally overlooked value of rivers and their floodplains is the natural flood control they provide when left with some of their natural environment intact,” said Ms Kowalczy. “Given enough forest, wetlands, and floodplain, rivers have a remarkable capacity
The swollen Maribyrnong River. (Joe Mastroianni). 304529_14
Maribyrnong River at Footscray in 2022. (Joe Mastroianni). 304529_26
to absorb rainfall and runoff.“ MRWA urges all stakeholders to come together to explore solutions that work in tandem with the environment. Founded in 2022, the Maribyrnong River and Waterways Association (MRWA) is a values- driven community-based organisation that advocates for the health of rivers and creeks in the Maribyrnong catchment.
8 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 18 October, 2023
“We advocate for the river itself, for the communities that depend on it, and for the myriad of health and well-being benefits that come with our interaction with the waterways and surrounding parklands. “MRWA brings the needs of the river into the public domain, challenges the community and government to act and puts forward pathways for action.”
Maribyrnong will be one of many communities across Victoria left devastated by floods last spring to have better access to reliable tradies under a partnership between Master Builders Victoria (MBV) and the state government. The $2 million Connecting Communities to Builders program will see homeowners granted streamlined links to local plumbers, electricians and builders in a bid to speed up recovery efforts. It comes almost a year after rising flood waters swamped homes and businesses from Melbourne to the banks of the Murray River. Under the initiative, the state government has only enlisted accredited tradespeople registered with Master Builders Victoria and other associations. Master Builders Victoria will use its funding allocation to help residents access registered tradespeople in a more timely manner. People and Member Services Executive Director Giovanni Abelardo says the funding would ensure much-needed recovery work would be carried out efficiently. “We know the impact the floods had on thousands of people, many who were forced out of their homes or have had to contend with property damage and poor services ever since,” Mr Abelardo said. “This program is an important way for these communities to tap into the services on offer from the reliable and registered Master Builders Victoria members.” The damage from spring floods was widespread after river systems broke their banks and floodwaters inundated communities and townships. In all, 63 of the state’s 79 local government areas, were impacted. Funding has also been provided to the five most impacted councils including Maribyrnong, Campaspe, Greater Shepparton and Mitchell shire councils, and Mount Alexander councils. MBV said it will help provide council planning departments with extra capacity to deal with the increase in planning and building enquiries and permit applications. The Connecting Communities to Builders program will run until June 30, 2025 via the Department of Transport and Planning. Any homeowner impacted by the floods is eligible and can register and submit a request and will then be emailed a list of approved registered builders and tradespeople in their area willing and able to take on work. The applicant will then deal directly with the builder or tradesperson of their choosing.
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Williamstown MP Melissa Horne, Principal Julie Krause and Cr Diana Grima.
Principal Julie Krause with year-9 student Ava.
Julie Krause with year-6 student Emma.
(Damjan Janevski) 365789_04
(Damjan Janevski) 365789_01
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Altona College celebrates becoming a P-12 school By Jennifer Pittorino The Altona community celebrated the official opening of Altona College P-12 school on Friday, October 13. Principal Julie Krause said the school was thrilled to unveil the newly renovated and enhanced facilities, marking the completion of its transition to a full senior school. “This achievement marks a remarkable step forward in providing our students and staff with state-of-the-art learning spaces designed to foster innovation, creativity, and skill development across various disciplines,” she said.
Williamstown MP Melissa Horne was joined by Hobsons Bay councillor Diana Grima to officially open the new spaces, marking the end of the $3.55 million stage 2 capital works. This was the second stage of an investment of more than $7 million by the state government to support the expansion of the college from a P-9 school to a P-12 education precinct. “This upgrade included the construction of a new senior centre, complete with classrooms, an open-plan learning area, toilets, a kitchen, and staff workspaces,” said Ms Krause. “Additionally, we refurbished and
reorganised our science classrooms, prep and storage areas, and administration spaces.” In addition to the transformation of the science classrooms, art and woodworking rooms were also refurbished. “These facilities are now equipped with cutting-edge technology and modern resources, providing our budding scientists with the perfect environment to explore, experiment, and innovate,” she said. “Furthermore, the revitalised art and design spaces are a testament to our commitment to nurturing creativity and artistic expression. “The revamped woodwork spaces provide
our students with an opportunity to engage in hands-on learning, honing their craftsmanship and design skills.” Ms Krause said Altona is a community in the midst of transformation and growth. In the past six years, enrolments have more than doubled, from 279 in 2017 to 666 enrolled this year. “It is our duty to prepare our students to be active contributors to this changing landscape,” she said. “By providing these specialised spaces and opportunities, we are equipping our students with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in an evolving world.”
Co-education Enrolments Now Open for Year 7, 2026 and beyond Scan QR code to find out more The future belongs to the Curious www.aloysius.vic.edu.au 31 Curran Street, North Melbourne VIC 3051 P 03 9325 9200 12578321-AV42-23
Wednesday, 18 October, 2023 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 9
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Help when every minute counts As October continues to creep by, Zoe Moffatt talks to a cardiac arrest survivor and paramedics to learn how an app is saving lives and changing the way people respond.
O
n an overcast day in the Macedon Ranges, nine people gather outside the Gisborne Ambulance Branch. They were all brought together through an unlikely meeting involving a health scare, chance and an app called GoodSAM. The first time the cohort met was on a gloomy winter’s night on June 21. Damian Fewster had just suffered a cardiac arrest and nearby resident Helen Barker was the first to respond. “I was in my pajamas, I had just got into bed and [was] scrolling [on my phone] before going to bed,” Helen explains. “Then this noise went off. I hadn’t heard it before, it’s like a real loud siren.” Helen’s app GoodSAM had just gone off, alerting her that someone nearby had suffered a cardiac arrest and was in need of help. “It’s probably just 17 years of intensive care unit experience, I was just like ‘I have to go’. “In my pajamas, I grabbed my coat, grabbed my keys and I saw it was only around the corner. I guess it’s like an instinct to go and help.”
‘‘
I always feel that if you can make a difference in someone’s life [you should], maybe it’s the nurse in me or the innate [desire] to help - Helen Barker
’’
When Helen arrived she saw Damian with his two young kids. “When I got there and it was just two young boys and Damian, it took me back a bit, especially because they were frightened. I knew by looking at him and years of nursing that I just needed to start CPR. “I know that every minute counts. When looking at the kids, it sounds silly, but I was like ‘he can’t die on me’.” While Helen has had the app for years, the experience was one laced with chance and timing. “This is the first time [the app has] gone off. It won’t send you notifications if you haven’t updated it with your registration – I literally had only done it a couple of weeks before,” Helen said. This feeling of chance and opportunity was one shared by Damian, who was only staying in Gisborne for six months while the family home in Bullengarook was being renovated. “I was very lucky for Helen to be there. If that had happened at any other time, there would have been no one around,” Damian said. “My son Liam, 10, called my wife, Donna, and then she called the ambulance. It was only my two younger sons at home when it happened.” Damian is back at work now and said he is feeling good, but doesn’t remember the details of the night very well. “I went to the gym that afternoon and then I had chest pains when I got home, and then I basically just rolled over and that was it, I was out. “All these other guys sort of know what happened more than I do, I’m just being relayed stories. “It’s good to meet everyone, since it’s happened I haven’t tried to wipe it from my memory but I’ve just moved on with life. “I have young kids so there’s no time to really standstill and assess what’s happened.” Damian’s story is one synonymous to many people around the state, with about 20 Victorians suffering a cardiac arrest each day. However, only one in 10 survive. Last year there were more cardiac arrests
Damian Fewster and GoodSAM responder Helen Barker. (Pictures: Star Weekly)
Damian and his family meet paramedics Emily Wilson and Jack Sullivan, and GoodSAM responder Helen Barker.
than ever before in Victoria and paramedics responded to 7361 patients, which is a six per cent increase. GoodSAM has saved more than 55 lives, thanks to more than 12,000 GoodSAM responders across the state. For Damian, the GoodSAM app and Helen’s quick response made a big difference to his recovery and life. Paramedic Emily Wilson attended to Damian and said the app probably saved his life. “Having somebody there doing good CPR five or seven minutes before we got there meant that he had circulation happening in his body and he had oxygen going to his brain,” she said. “That’s really important.” Fellow paramedic Jack Sullivan agreed and said it makes an enormous difference to the survival chance.
10 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 18 October, 2023
“Increased survival from GoodSAM is huge,” he said. “Being first on the scene and able to establish CPR from the get go prior to our arrival is amazing.” For Helen downloading the app was a no-brainer and one way for her to make a difference. “I always feel that if you can make a difference in someone’s life [you should], maybe it’s the nurse in me or the innate [desire] to help,” she said. “I just know that a few minutes can make the difference between Damian now and having severe brain injury or death.” Anyone over 18 years old, who knows hands-only CPR can become a GoodSAM responder, and accepting an alert is voluntary. Details: www.ambulance.vic.gov.au/ shocktober
The life-saving app GoodSAM app.
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There are so many unsung heroes in our community that do incredible work who don’t get the recognition they deserve. I’ve been fortunate to meet people all over Hobsons Bay who dedicate so much of their time, energy, passion and expertise to helping others. It’s rare that we get to truly recognise these people and shine a light on the important contribution they make to our society. Nominating someone to be the Hobsons Bay Citizen of the Year or Young Citizen of the Year is a great opportunity to do just that. If you know someone who’s working to make a difference and drive positive change in our community, show them how much you value their work by nomiating them. You can nominate any Australian citizen who lives, works, volunteers or studies in Hobsons Bay. All the details about who you can nominate and how to do it are available at hobsonsbay. vic.gov.au/citizenawards. Tourism is a crucial part of our local economy, particularly in my ward, which includes the popular Williamstown precinct, where people come from all over Melbourne and beyond to visit. Making sure we are doing everything we can to attract people to all parts of Hobsons Bay is really important. Tourism generates $388 million annually and supports more than 2,400 local jobs in Hobsons Bay. Tourism is a competitive industry so we need to all be working together to generate the best ideas and get as many perspectives as possible on how we can improve our offering. We will soon be updating our tourism strategy and we’re inviting residents, businesses and visitors to give their thoughts on what we can do to attract more people to
Councillor Pamela Sutton-Legaud.
Hobsons Bay and what our tourism priorities should be. Also open for community feedback is the consultation for the Williamstown’s foreshore precinct. Draft plans for a redevelopment of the Williamstown Swimming and Life Saving Club, concept plans for the open spaces along the foreshore, and a planting plan for Rifle Range Reserve are available for residents to provide feedback on. You can have your say on both of these project at: participate.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au. Before I go, I want to mention two great programs for people of different ages. The popular Children’s Week is back on October 21-28. There is a packed line-up of events for children all over Hobsons Bay. This month is also Seniors Festival. All throughout October there are great workshops, events, information sessions and more for our older residents. There’s still time to make the most of it. Please check our website for details of events of these two wonderful programs.
Detectives are investigating following a suspected drive-by shooting in Altona North on Sunday, October 15. Police have been told a 50-year-old man was shot at outside his property on Fourth Avenue around 7.30pm. He self-presented at hospital later that evening and was treated for non-life threatening injuries. Investigators believe a burnt-out Mitsubishi Pajero located on Gill Street in Reservoir around 8.20pm Sunday night is likely linked to the incident. Investigators are keen to speak to anyone with any information on the incident, or who might have been in the area at the time and has further CCTV or dashcam footage. Details to: Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
Double stabbing Detectives are investigating after two men were stabbed in Footscray last week. It is believed the victims were having a conversation in a store on Paisley Street, about 4.45pm on Monday, October 9, when they were approached by an unknown man. Officers believe that the man produced a knife from his jacket and in an unprovoked attack stabbed both victims. It is believed that the man is in his twenties, is approximately 175cm tall with dark coloured hair and dreadlocks. FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Maribyrnong & Hobsons Bay Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly
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Wednesday, 18 October, 2023 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 11
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Knee and shin pain solutions
Common contributors to knee and shin pain include: 1. Overuse and Overexertion: Pushing the limits without adequate rest can strain joints, tissues and surrounding structures resulting in repetitive stress syndrome. 2. Muscle Imbalances: Weak or unbalanced muscles can disrupt kneecap alignment, increase stress and overload tissues, leading to pain.
3. Injuries and Degeneration: Accidents or wear and tear over time can cause injuries or degeneration, like arthritis, to joints and surrounding tissues, resulting in pain and impacting mobility. 4. Biomechanical and Anatomical Factors: Anatomical variations or biomechanical issues can affect how the body functions, contributing to pain in the knees and shins. But here’s the good news: these discomforts need not derail your active lifestyle. Dr. Dowie suggests practical strategies for managing these conditions: • Choose appropriate footwear tailored to your activity. • Gradually build up your exercise levels to prevent overloading tissues and structures, avoiding sudden increases in intensity or duration. • Consult a skilled Musculoskeletal Professional if your pain persists or worsens. They offer a thorough assessment, diagnosis, uncover underlying issues, causes and contributing factors and provide targeted treatment tailored to your specific needs. Your path to pain relief and improved mobility starts with understanding your shin and knee pain and addressing the root causes. For expert advice on foot and leg pain, consult with Dr Dowie at Foot and Leg Pain Clinics in Williamstown by calling 1300 328 300.
A leap forward in the field of podiatry In an era where convenience and specialised healthcare are becoming increasingly important, the founding of The Toe Truck represented a significant leap forward in the field of podiatry. Established with the vision of providing exceptional foot and lower limb care within the comforts of one’s home, The Toe Truck has consistently set itself apart by upholding a unique set of values, ethics, and unwavering commitment to its community. One of the distinguishing features of The Toe Truck is its unwavering dedication to the people it serves. The organisation is not merely focused on offering podiatry services; it seeks to create a lasting impression by going the extra mile. With an experienced team, the client’s satisfaction and well-being are placed at the heart of every service provided, both in clinical and home care settings. This commitment to exceptional service sets The Toe Truck apart from conventional podiatry providers. The essence of The Toe Truck’s mission is captured in its ‘Podiatry, but at home’ approach. The organisation understands that accessibility to healthcare can often be a challenge, and convenience is a
top priority. By offering state-of-the-art podiatry services that adhere to the latest research, products, and guidelines, The Toe Truck ensures that its clients receive the best care available, right in the comfort of their own homes. This approach caters to individuals who may find it difficult to travel to a clinic or prefer the convenience of receiving care at home. What truly sets The Toe Truck apart is its commitment to making clients feel genuinely cared for. The organisation is driven to enhance the overall well-being of the community they serve. This dedication is not merely a business strategy but a genuine reflection of the organisation’s values. Their dedication to bringing podiatry services to your doorstep with a commitment to client satisfaction is a testament to the positive impact that a patient-centered approach can have in healthcare. The Toe Truck is not just about feet; it’s about making a real difference in the lives of those it serves. To book - let us know your preferred day and time for us to visit either online or on the phone 8383 8686. info@thetoetruck. com.au or www.thetoetruck.com.au
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12 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 18 October, 2023
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Knee pain and shin splints often share the spotlight in discussions about exercise-related discomfort, however they affect a wide range of individuals of all ages and lifestyles. Recognising their prevalence and causes can empower you to tackle these common issues effectively. Dr Paul Dowie, one of Australia’s most experienced musculoskeletal podiatrists from Foot and Leg Pain Clinics, sheds light on these common concerns and potential solutions. “Knee pain knows no boundaries, impacting people of all ages and activity levels,“ notes Dr Dowie. “Whether it’s a sharp stab, a persistent ache, or discomfort that hinders your mobility, knee pain is a universal issue. Shin splints, on the other hand, primarily affect active individuals like runners, dancers, long-distance walkers, and high-impact sports enthusiasts”. According to Dr Dowie, understanding the common causes is crucial.
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Do I have to wear two hearing aids?: Experts explain Active Audiology’s experienced audiologists, Naomi Fuertes and Amanda Nguyen, have shared their expert insights on the common question of whether one should wear one or two hearing aids. When it comes to hearing health, it’s a common query - should one wear one or two hearing aids? To shed light on this important topic, we turn to the knowledge and expertise of Active Audiolog’s dedicated audiologists, Naomi Fuertes and Amanda Nguyen. According to Amanda Nguyen, “Hearing is a bilateral experience, and wearing two hearing aids can significantly enhance your quality of life. It allows you to maintain balance and preserve the brain’s natural ability to process sound effectively.” Wearing two hearing aids, as recommended by our audiologists, not only amplifies sound but also provides the brain with the opportunity to process auditory information from both ears. Naomi Fuertes explains, “When you use only one hearing aid, you may not be taking full advantage of your auditory system. It’s akin to having a single working eye when you have two perfectly healthy eyes – you’ll miss out on the complete picture.” Crucially, hearing is a complex process that relies on input from both ears to accurately locate sounds and understand speech in noisy environments. By stimulating both ears, you maintain a balanced and active aural pathway, leading to improved speech comprehension and sound localisation. If you’re facing the decision of whether to wear one or two hearing aids, remember that Active Audiology is here to help. The expert team offers no-obligation discussions about your hearing needs,
Audiologist Amanda Nguyen say that wearing two hearing aids can significantly enhance your quality of life.
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needs. Active Audiology is at 17 Harrington Square, Altona. Phone 1300 364 007. For more go to www.activeaudiology.com.au
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Wednesday, 18 October, 2023 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 13
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Clean up or pay up, says EPA A Tottenham company and its director and general manager will pay $23,000 in fines, costs and donations after failing to comply with an EPA order to clean up a pile of industrial waste that included dangerous chemicals. EPA Victoria charged Crossroads Logistics Pty Ltd, director Christian McDonald and general manager Arthur Sofos with contravening a notice to take clean up and ongoing measures, a breach of the Environment Protection Act 1970. The company ran a storage business for freight and other materials at Somerville
Road. They entered a plea of guilty. In February 2019, the company received large quantities of liquid and solid industrial waste which were stored at a rented site nearby. The stockpile included various types of industrial waste in intermediate bulk containers (IBCs), 200-litre chemical storage drums and bulker bags. Approximately 10 of the IBCs were labelled as containing ‘Class 8 - Corrosive’ dangerous goods. After several inspections, EPA issued a Clean Up Notice on January, 31, 2020 requiring
Crossroads Logistics to remove the stockpile for disposal at a licensed facility by February 28. Crossroads Logistics left the premises in late March 2020 but did not contribute to the clean-up, leaving the landowner to deal with the industrial waste. In the Sunshine Magistrates’ Court, Magistrate J D Williams fined the company $7,000 and ordered it to pay EPA’s court costs of $12,000, with no conviction recorded. Directors McDonald and Sofos were released on a 12-month Adjourned Undertaking, on the
conditions that each pays $2,000 to the Court Fund, be of good behaviour and undertake not to receive industrial waste personally or as an officer of a corporation. EPA Victoria acting chief executive Mark Rossiter says there is a clear message for potential offenders. “EPA regulatory notices are legal instruments that must be taken seriously,” he said. “They give a clear set of instructions and a deadline that gives enough time to comply. “Fail to comply and EPA can back them up with fines or prosecution in court.”
Trust twigs to a grand competiton
Williamstown local Ian Barclay, with Victorian Governor Professor Margaret Gardner (right), has been recognised for his volunteering efforts at the Council on the Ageing Awards (COTA). (Supplied)
Seniors advocate ‘chuffed’ at honour For 40 years Ian Barclay, 66, has lived in Williamstown and has been heavily involved in the community, a place he loves to call home. With an impressive resume dating back to the 1990s, it is safe to say that Ian has earned his Council on the Ageing Award (COTA) at the 2023 Victorian Senior of the Year Awards. On Wednesday, October 11, Ian joined 14 other senior Victorians at Government House who were recognised for their significant contributions to their local communities. Ian’s contribution to the community includes his work at the University of the Third Age
(U3A), Williamstown Swimming and Life Saving Club (WS&LSC), the Royal Yacht Club of Victoria (RYCV) and the Repair Cafe at the Louis Joel Arts and Community Centre. For more than 25 years, Ian has been volunteering at the lifesaving club. He first started helping out when his family became involved in nippers. Ian eventually started patrolling, something he has no plan to abandon any time soon. “I really enjoy it all, and I also love giving back to the community,” he said. “In a working career, you don’t have enough
time for those sorts of things, but when you take the work factor out of it, you can do so much more.” “I am very chuffed, I must admit. I am very humbled and definitely very honoured. “I suppose it’s a bit of recognition for some of the stuff that I’ve done which is always lovely , but also to recognise the people who I have worked with who have been fantastic. “This award reinforces what they’ve done as well, it’s definitely a two way award to my belief anyway.”
The National Trust of Australia (Victoria) has revealed the nine trees contending for the prestigious title of 2023 Victorian Tree of the Year. The shortlist for this award includes three finalists hailing from Melbourne and six from regional Victoria, one of which is located in Hobsons Bay. The Moreton Bay Fig is located in Logan Reserve on Queen St, Altona, with a large canopy spread of 28 metres. This Moreton Bay Fig is approximately 105 years old and stands next to Altona Homestead which is the oldest standing building in Altona. National Trust of Australia (Victoria) chief executive Simon Ambrose said the Victorian Tree of the Year contest aims to raise awareness of the conservation of the state’s natural heritage and highlight the many benefits trees provide to our culture and way of life. “The Victorian Tree of the Year is a fantastic opportunity for us to appreciate the natural wonders that surround us,” said Mr Ambrose. “These trees provide their local communities with serenity and respite and represent the diverse and awe-inspiring beauty of Victoria’s natural environment. “We encourage all Victorians to have their say in recognising these majestic members of our community.” Voting is open until midnight Sunday , October 29, and the winner will be announced on Tuesday, October 31. Details: nationaltrust.org.au/ treeoftheyear.
Hobsons Bay Citizen of the Year nominations open for young and old Nominations are now open for the 2024 Hobsons Bay Citizen of the Year and Young Citizen of the Year awards. Council said the awards shine a light on people in the community who are striving to make a difference and driving positive change. This could be through community service, sport, arts and culture, environment, health and wellbeing, business and economic development, and other areas that contribute to improving Hobsons Bay. The awards acknowledge the unsung heroes of the community who through their contributions make our state a better place. Nominees must be Australian citizens who live, work, volunteer or study in Hobsons Bay. While nominees for the Young Citizen
award must be 26 years or younger on 26 January 2024. Council said if you know someone who deserves to be recognised, nominate them for Citizen of the Year or Young Citizen of the Year online. Alternatively you pick up a hard-copy nomination form at the Hobsons Bay Civic Centre or your local library. You can only nominate someone else. Self-nominations will not be accepted. Nominations close on Sunday, November 12. Hobsons Bay mayor Tony Briffa said, “One of my highlights as mayor is being able to witness and celebrate the outstanding work of individuals in our community. “As well as showcasing the incredible
14 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 18 October, 2023
achievements and altruism of individuals, the awards are also a platform for the winners to raise awareness of their work in the community.” Naserah Khan, known as Nasz, was awarded 2023 Citizen of the Year for her years of dedication, passion and commitment working behind the scenes to improve Seabrook. “It’s been such a wonderful opportunity; I’ve enjoyed it very much and loved working with council staff,” she said. “I’ve been able to directly contribute to events including the Dawn service, coffee at Homestead and outdoor movies. It’s been a busy yet very fulfilling year.” Details: www.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/ citizenawards.
Kate De Marco and Tahlia Kotiau were Hobsons Bay’s 2022 Citizens of the Year. (Supplied)
FEATURING ... CARERS WEEK
Advertising feature
Verley and Bob MacGregor in their Mount Martha retirement unit.
Bob MacGregor (right) with Rex Roberts enjoying activities at Uniting AgeWell Andrew Kerr Care Day Centre in Mornington.
Even a brave Sea Wolf needs regular breaks! Caring and taking a break from caring, looks different to everyone. And time out for Verley MacGregor is running into the waves at a Mount Martha beach early each morning with a group of women friends all howling like wolves! Verley, who cares for her husband Bob, is a member of Sea Wolves – a group of up to 80 fun-loving women who do just that.
“It’s exhilarating!” she says. During National Carers Week (October 15-21), Uniting AgeWell is highlighting the range of supports it offers carers, like Verley, in what can be a difficult and exhausting journey. Knowing there is support every step of the way can bring carers a sense of relief and peace of mind. “Our families are scattered across the world, so when it comes to looking
after Bob, I’m it!” she laughs. “But of course I couldn’t do it without Uniting AgeWell in my corner. They’re great!” Bob, 83, has Alzheimer’s disease and receives services through his home care package with Uniting AgeWell. While he’s receiving personal care in the morning, Verley nips out for her swim, and when he attends the social connections program at Uniting
AgeWell Andrew Kerr Care Day Centre in Mornington twice a week, Verley has time to sort things out at home. When Verley was recovering from surgery, Bob was able to access longer stay respite at the Andrew Kerr Care residential care facility. No matter where you live in Melbourne, there is help at hand. See www.unitingagewell. org or call 1300 783 435.
Support for those who care for someone in the community Caring for a loved one can be challenging. Uniting AgeWell’s carer respite services give carers time to themselves, while supporting the person being cared for in a stimulating and caring setting. We provide a range of carer supports including: In-home respite Centre-based respite, including day outings Residential respite, when a longer break is needed To find out how we can support you and the person you care for, call the Uniting AgeWell team on 1300 783 435. www.unitingagewell.org/our-services/ respite-and-carer-support
Need a break from your caring role? We can help. 12641426-AI42-23
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Festivals galore in the west As we enter the last quarter of the year, the west of Melbourne is abuzz with festivals and Western Melbounrne Tourism has been curating a festival season hit-list. Western Melbourne Tourism executive officer Richard Ponsford said the coming shows and festivals feature big names and emerging performers alike. “There is a rich tapestry of activity always across the region with some many great venues, driven by our diverse arts community and multicultural population,” he said. “As we emerge out of the pandemic there is more and more happening. Melbourne’s west has an ever- expanding program of what’s on.
We are working hard on the engagement of the west in the Melbourne major events calendar. For this month in October, the west has a strong ‘sub-programs’ as part of the Melbourne International Jazz festival (Jazz Westside) Melbourne Fringe (Fringe Westside) and the Always Live program later in November. “ In the coming days there’s still a chance to check out some Fringe Westside between October 19 and 22 including Puppet Mayhem at Williamstown Seaworks, The Astonishing Comet Box at Bluestone Church Arts Space in Footscray, or fly high above Footscray station with Swing. For lovers of beer, connoisseurs and casual enjoyers alike can head to the
Westie Beer Festie for tastings on October 21. On October 29 Jazz Westside returns to Maribyrnong with a take over of Footscray’s hidden civic square for an afternoon of incredibly diverse, hip-swinging rhythms and beats flowing out of Africa including NIASHA, Yusupha Ngum and The Affia Band and Sylent Nqo and The Experience. Moving into November, on the 2nd Werribee Racecourse has a Breakfast With the Stars, and the following Staurday is the Seaworks Food and Wine Festival. On November 11 Melton’s Djerriwarrh Festival kicks off, the huge program of family friendly events and activities will be headlined with massive music
acts including Regurgitator, Pseudo Echo, FOOLS, Jess Hitchcock and Lotte Gallagher. November 25 Footscray hosts a Diwali Festival of Lights event, and as November ends the Always Live festival kicks off, beginning with rap star ILLY performing at Plaza Tavern in Werribee. On December 2 the Jamaican Music and Food Festival hits Williamstown seaworks, with Soul Trains featuring Lee Fields & The Expressions on at Mama Chens in Footscray the next day. Williamstown will round out the Always Live Festival with End of The Line at Commonwealth Reserve featuring Alex Lahey, Alice Skye and Meghna & Philly. Details: www.melbourneswest.com.au
Children’s Week returns
Diana Paez and Juan Pablo Echenique. (Damjan Janevski) 366372_02
Latin American stories at The Sun Returning for the first time since COVID, Melbourne Filmoteca will be screening ’Nuestras Voces’, at The Sun Theatre in Yarraville. Filmoteca has been bringing Spanish and Latin American stories to Melbourne via film for over 20 years, now the Melbourne made documentary by Diana Paez is said to tell an inspiring story. “It’s a beautiful way of exploring Melbourne’s and Australia’s history through the eyes of Spanish speaking migrants,” said Diana. Nuestras Voces (Our Voices) tells stories of diaspora from Latin America, it tells the compelling stories of Spanish-speaking
migrants who arrived in Victoria between the 1960’s and 1980’s and their profound impact on the social and cultural tapestry of Australia. The event will also include a Q&A session with the film director and people featured in the film as well as a dance performance by official sponsor Son de Mexico Ballet Folklorico. Diana said having a live element to the event is what makes Filmoteca special. “We don’t not only bring films, because there’s festivals that do that already. “We always bring a cultural link to the event, sometimes we have music, dance, food, this time the ticket includes a drink on arrival and seeing the dance show.”
The event is not only for those who speak Spanish but for everyone, as Diana said most people can relate to migration. “Melbourne is a city made from migrants, and many people, even if they’re second, third or fourth generation, have these stories in their family histories. “There are similarities with Greeks, Italians, and Turkish communities, which are really, really big in Melbourne. “The beautiful thing is that people can see themselves in the feelings of the stories.“ The event will be held on Saturday, October 28 from 4:30pm.
Children’s Week returns to Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay with a full program and a wide range of activities. A week of free, educational events will be held for children under the age of 12 and their families, from Saturday 21 October to Sunday 29 October. Held in the last week of October every year, Children’s Week is a national celebration that recognises the talents, skills, achievements, and rights of children. This year’s theme celebrates the right of children to relax, play and take part in the activities they enjoy. Among this year’s schedule of events in Hobsons Bay is the opening of the STEAM Centre at Altona Meadows Library, an open day at Brooklyn Tennis Club and Altona Hockey Club, grandparents’ playgroup, fun for all ages at Hobsons Bay libraries and community centres such as baby time, story time, courtyard construction and comic club, musical adventures with Hey Dee Ho, a webinar for parents on raising an emotionally intelligent child, Marine Education with Seaweed Sally, Aboriginal Culture with Didgeridoo Australia, drop-in STEAM sessions at SciencePlay Kids, and mixed media art classes with Little Art Big Art. Activities in Maribyrnong include intergenerational play which brings different generations together to enjoy a petting zoo; and a Vietnamese bilingual storytime, celebrating diversity through captivating songs, stories and rhymes. There will also be classic games in a retro play session for a nostalgic experience. Details: www.maribyrnong.vic.gov. au/childrensweek hobsonsbay.v ic.gov.au / childrensweek
Designs set to make a splash at surf lifesaving club The Williamstown Swimming and Life Saving Club (S&LSC) will soon be receiving an upgrade to the facility with the concept designs launched on Wednesday, October 11. Hobsons Bay council and Williamstown MP Melissa Horne visited the club to commence community engagement on the upgrade to Williamstown’s 100- year-old clubhouse facility. Life Saving Victoria said the concept design had been developed in collaboration with key stakeholders, including the club, Life Saving Victoria, and other relevant authorities. During the consultation period, the community will have an opportunity to view
the concept designs on selected dates at the Williamstown clubhouse and Robertson Reserve Farmers Market, or online. After the community engagement period concludes on December 10, the next stage of design development will begin, with consideration of the community’s input. The Williamstown S&LSC redevelopment project is jointly funded by the state government, which pledged over $11.3 million in funding in 2021, and Hobsons Bay council which committed $3 million. Williamstown S&LSC president Claire Howell said the club anticipates that the new facility will be enjoyed by all.
16 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 18 October, 2023
“Williamstown S&LSC will ensure the community and visitors who use and enjoy our beach will experience a state-of-the-art facility for many years to come,” she said. “Our 1,500 members, from our frontline patrollers to the youngest nippers, will benefit from the revitalised clubhouse and foreshore precinct, while retaining the heritage of our proud club, allowing us to deliver essential lifesaving services for generations to come. “The club invites the public’s input and ideas regarding the project, as we want the new Williamstown S&LSC to be a place the whole community is proud to visit, and safely enjoy the beach and surrounding amenities.”
(L-R) Cr Jonathan Marsden, Willi Pres, Willi Treas, Williamstown MP Melissa Horne, Mayor Tony Briffa, Canvas Projects Nick Gamble, and Olivia Webb. (Supplied)
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Clean air grants open
Christopher Marshall on the job at Tee & Coffee, Seddon. (Damjan Janevski) 366237_01
Cookin’ job satisfaction By Liam McNally After more than a decade without work, Melton resident Christopher Marshall said he was nervous looking for a job. “I was nervous about how people would think of me, interviews were a little bit intimidating, if I would be good enough for the work I was going for, and whether or not someone would hire me,” he said. Mr Marshall, who has a learning disability, said he was spurred on by a drive to be more independent. “I wanted to save money for a car, for a home of my own one day and perhaps a holiday,” he said. “But I also wanted to have some
independence and freedom of my own, to get out more, and to build more on my life.” To help his employment journey Mr Marshall enlisted the help of employment services provider APM, who he said were amazing. “As soon as I came in and wanted to get work they wanted to help from the get go, they are a truly amazing group of people and the reason I have work right now,” he said. After upskilling with a Responsible Serving of Alcohol and barista course, Mr Marshall was set up with a kitchen hand position at Seddon business Tee & Coffee. Mr Marshall said he was over the moon when he found out he’d been hired. “I have dealt with a lot of setbacks in the
past, to a point where I just about gave up on myself, so to know that there was someone willing to say yes and hire me and give me a chance, I was at a loss for words,” he said. “It’s been incredible really. I’m learning new skills that I never thought I would learn and I have a wonderful boss that’s full of positivity and the team are really great to work with, there are great vibes where I am. “I’ve had some people say to me that I wouldn’t amount to much, and I wanted them to know that they are wrong, and that I did it. I got work, I am happy, I am loving where I work and I am proud of how far I’ve come. I can not wait to see how far my skills and my time at Tee & Coffee take me.”
The second round of the Air Quality Improvement Precincts grants, designed by the state government to help businesses in Melbourne’s inner west reduce air pollution, has been announced. The grant aims to reduce dust and smoke polluting the air by delivering grants of up to $100,000. Up to $1 million in grants will be allocated to businesses located or operating in the west. The establishment of Air Quality Improvement Precincts is part of the federal governments Clean Air for all Victorians, Victoria’s Air Quality Strategy, Victoria’s first overarching plan to address air pollution. Clean Air for all Victorians was released in 2022 and sets out the state governments approach to reducing air pollution. The second round of the grants build on the climate change agenda, as the state continues to transition towards renewable energy and zero emissions vehicles which will also contribute to improving air quality. Details: eventbrite.com.au/e/airq u a l i t y-i mpr ov e m e nt-pr e c i n c t s program-round-2-tickets-718339612117. For more information on the grants, including the precinct boundary and how to apply, visit sustainability.vic.gov. au/air-quality-improvement-precinctsgrant-program. Applications for the grants program close on Thursday, November 9.
Wheelathon a success The annual A-T Wheelathon marked a special occasion for founder and Williamstown local, Luke Ogden. Luke, 37, who was born with a rare condition called Ataxia-telangiectasia (AT), created the event in 2022 to shine a light on the disease. The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) participant said the event, which raises awareness and funds for the Brash A-T Foundation, was even bigger than the first. Held on Saturday, October 14, the event involved 120 ‘wheelies’, walkers and supporters who headed off from the Royal Yacht Club of Victoria along a 5 km course. The total amount raised was $27, 572. This included $1595 on the day through t-shirt sales alone, $925 from the sausage sizzle, and $300 from fines, which were handed out at $10 a time when a wheelie got out of their chair during the wheelathon. “The goal was to raise around $19,000 to
$20,000, so to raise near $28,000 was great,“ said Luke. “I bullied (jokingly) people into helping and supporting me, so that was great. We also had more people involved than last year which was awesome. “Thanks to everyone for the support and I’ll be reaching out again in future.“ AT is a rare, neurodegenerative, autosomal recessive disease which causes severe disability. While AT heavily impacts his mobility and speech, NDIS funding for home modifications, assistive technology, equipment and supports, ensures Luke enjoys a full life. Luke is one of only 50 confirmed cases in Australia. All money raised will go towards funding research into a cure for AT, supporting Australian families affected by it, and supporting clinical and medical trials.
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Champion for women By Goya Dmytryshchak
Champion for women
A Williamstown woman who has received an Australia Day honour for significant service to women with ovarian cancer has recalled her own diagnosis, which brought heartbreak but also gratitude. Paula Benson, who formerly chaired Ovarian Cancer Australia, has been appointed a Member of the Order of Australia. She was diagnosed with ovarian cancer at the age of 34 in 2003. “I know I am one of the very lucky ones because my GP did all the right things for me,” Ms Benson said. “When I went to her, I had this unexplained abdominal bloating, changes in my urinary and bowel habits and I felt really full after eating not very much.
By Goya Dmytryshchak
‘‘
still so much more to do and we can’t rest until it’s done - Paula Benson
A Williamstown woman who has received an Australia Day honour for significant service to women with ovarian cancer has recalled her own diagnosis, which brought heartbreak but also gratitude. Paula Benson, who formerly chaired Ovarian Cancer Australia, has been appointed a Member of the Order of Australia.
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Paula Benson. (Joe Mastroianni). 226296_02
Isabella with the help of a surrogate mother and a separate egg donor. “I do have a beautiful daughter,” Ms Benson said. “She’s 14 now. “I was very fortunate. One of my girlfriends donated eggs and another girlfriend carried her for me, so I’m very lucky to be a mum.” On learning of her Australia Day recognition, Ms Benson said she hoped it would raise more awareness of ovarian cancer. “When I first found out about it I felt quite
emotional really thinking about everything that we at Ovarian Cancer Australia have achieved over the past decade,” she said. “But I was just reflecting today, the same week that I found out about potentially receiving the award, I heard about another friend of mine who’s just been diagnosed with a gynecologic cancer and it was very grounding. “We’ve achieved so much, we’ve done so much and I’m so proud of that but there is still so much more to do and we can’t rest until it’s
done.” Ovarian Cancer Australia said under Ms Benson’s stewardship the organisation had achieved significant milestones, including developing and implementing Australia’s first national action plan for ovarian cancer research, securing $3 million federal funding for the Traceback ovarian cancer prevention program and the commitment of $20 million for ovarian cancer research from the federal government’s Medical Research Future Fund.
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“She sent me straight off that morning for a transvaginal ultrasound and she got me in to see a gynaecological oncologist that night and I had the surgery the next week. “No one thought that I would have ovarian cancer because I was young, I was 34 – largely, it’s women in their 50s, 60s, 70s who are diagnosed – and I have no history of ovarian or breast cancer in my family. “So, no one suspected that it could be ovarian cancer; they could see that I had a large cyst attached to one of my ovaries and that the ovary was damaged and that the cyst and the ovary would need to be removed. “When I woke up, my gyne-oncologist told me that she was very sorry but she’d found ovarian cancer and had to undertake a radical hysterectomy. “It was very shocking for a young woman to have that experience but I know my cancer was diagnosed early, it hadn’t spread and I know how lucky I am.” Ms Benson said she knew her story was not typical for most women with ovarian cancer, which prompted her to offer her services to Ovarian Cancer Australia in 2006. The same year, she and spouse Stephen Conroy, a former Labor senator, had baby girl
Scan this QR code to subscribe Luke Ogden raised $27, 572 for Ataxia-telangiectasia (AT) research. (Supplied)
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MY PLACE Author Vicki Milliken tells Jennifer Pittorino about her writing and her connection to Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay. a thoroughfare, is surrounded on three sides by water and boasts loads of open spaces, greenery, dog parks and bike paths. And I love our neighbours (we’re so lucky) and the fact that most people in Willy are willing to share a smile, a greeting or a quick conversation.
Can you tell us a bit about yourself? I’m Vicki, and I live in Williamstown. After 34 years of working in large corporate organisations nationally and internationally, I decided to change careers. Today, I’m a freelance writer and author. Tell us about your work in literature. I wouldn’t call it literature; I doubt it will be remembered with any lasting merit (chuckle). But I am incredibly proud of my two children’s books (Merck Gets a Friend, Jobs for Paws) which are both set in Williamstown, and my two historical romances (The Battle for Eliza, Kiss by Kiss) set in Melbourne in 1925. I also write feature articles and have had success in publishing with The Guardian and The Westsider newspapers.
What, if anything, would you change about where you live? If I could have one wish granted, it would be for the charm and village like feel to be returned to Williamstown. It is what attracted me to the suburb when I moved from Brisbane in 1994 but it’s been lost in recent years. Where is your favourite local place to spend time? Anywhere in Williamstown where I can see the water. And I enjoy hanging out at Provisions Cafe – they have the best sticky chai latte in Williamstown.
What is your favourite thing to write about? My current passion is writing about active, engaged, inspirational over 50-year-olds and helping to dispel the myth that the only thing worse than ageing is death. What’s your connection to Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay? I have connections to both. I moved to Williamstown in 1994 (although I’m still not considered a local). And I volunteer for various organisations across Hobsons Bay, including Louis Joel Arts and Community Centre in Altona, The Williamstown Lit Fest, Rotary Williamstown’s annual Charity Ride for Cancer and, until recently, The Williamstown Chamber of Commerce. I’m a member of the Hobsons Bay Homegrown Authors, a fantastic local initiative to recognise local authors and encourage aspiring local authors.
Tell us something people would be surprised to know about you. One of the reasons I moved from Brisbane was for Melbourne’s weather – the four seasons and the cool changes.
Vicki Milliken. (Jacob Pattison) 362698_01
I also met my husband at Pat McGuire’s Dance Studio in Yarraville (the Maribyrnong connection) and we married
in Williamstown. What do you like about where you live? I love that Williamstown is a destination not
Is there anything else you’d like to say? Building community is something I’m passionate about because it adds years to people’s lives. And the exciting part? Anyone can contribute, regardless of age, time, or finances. It’s as simple as picking up litter, sharing a smile with a stranger, supporting local business or volunteering time.
Order now on aussietoysonline.com.au 12642447-JC42-23
18 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 18 October, 2023
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COMMUNITY
COMMUNITY CALENDAR WANT YOUR EVENT LISTED? Community Calendar is made available free of charge to not-for-profit organisations to keep the public informed of special events and activities. Send item details to Star Weekly Community Calendar, Corner Thomsons Road and Keilor Park Drive, Keilor Park, 3042, or email to westeditorial@starweekly.com.au by 9am Wednesday the week prior to publication
Boxing Maribyrnong Boxing Club has reopened 11 months after the Maribyrnong floods of Oct 2022. New and former members of the Maribyrnong Community Youth Club Inc, are welcome to attend training sessions on Monday 6pm -8pm , Thursday 6.45 pm -7.45pm and Sunday 10am -11am. Traditional “method style boxing” taught. Boxing for fitness classes, beginners, youth and adults and also competition available. Club premises are located under the grandstand on Maribyrnong Reserve Corner Hortense Street and Middle road, Maribyrnong ■ Secretary : email nugara.david@hotmail. com or Mob 0413495836
Laverton Community Choir Laverton community choir is looking for people to join them as they start rehearsing Christmas carols, as well as other popular songs in their repertoire. No experience necessary and no auditions. Group meets on Thursday evenings during school term from 7-9 pm (including supper) at Laverton P12 College, Gate 1 / 91 Bladin Street, Laverton. ■ Sue 0418 386 147
This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of performers at the Bluestone Church Arts Space, with Angela Cooper at the front. (Damjan Janevski) 365578_01
Walking football (soccer) For ages 50 and over, walking football has participants in their 70s. Any fitness level – no running allowed. This is a social activity for fun and a bit of exercise, no experience necessary. Supported by Hobsons Bay Council and Football Victoria. This is a free activity each Wednesday lunchtime (12 till 1pm) indoors at the Sports Centre, Andrew Park Drive (Queens Road), Altona. ■ Mike 0423-291-708.
Education Centre has hands-on, face-to-face classes for you or a friend. Contact the centre today to find something for you! ■ 9391 8504, or outlets@outletsco-op. com.au
Carers’ walk and talk
Christchurch Newport Choir is looking for people who enjoy singing and like Christmas carols to join the choir as they prepare some songs for the coming Christmas season. No experience necessary. Rehearsals are on Thursday nights at 7pm, at Christchurch, 61 Mason St, Newport. ■ Contact: Voola 0414690448, vfh2055@ gmail.com
A collaboration between the state government, Interchange Outer East and Brotherhood of St Laurence (BSL), the Pathways for Carers program is launching a monthly walk in Footscray on the third Thursday of each month. The goal of each group is to provide carers with peer-based support, information, services and resources, opportunities to be active and connect with other carers, connect with nature and connect with their local community. ■ lauren.mcalpine@bsl.org.au or www. pathwaysforcarers.com.au
Book sale
Seeking stories
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, from 10am-1pm. ■ https://libraries.hobsonsbay.
Award-winning local author Dr Dominique Hes is writing a book on Newport Lakes, tracing its history, its impact and its contribution. The book will outline the story of its development, highlighting the role of consensus, courage, vision and working with nature to create a beautiful ecological and social place. Weaving in theories of biophilia, regenerative development and placemaking with local stories, it aims to provide inspiration for other communities looking at what they can do in their neighbourhoods. Locals are asked to come forward with any stories, photos, memories to be included in the book. ■ NPLbook22@gmail.com
CCN Choir
Altona Girl Guides Altona Girl Guides currently have vacancies for girls aged five-plus who would like to learn new skills, gain confidence,and expand their friendship circle while having fun. ■ hobsonsbay@guidesvic.org.au
English lessons Want to learn English in a fun and relaxed setting? Build your English, digital and employability skills with the Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP). Williamstown. Laverton Community Education Centre now offers free AMEP classes to eligible clients at Joan Kirner House in Williamstown. Classes are on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 9.30am-3pm. Childcare is available for children who are under school age. ■ 93692726.
Computers, crafts, conversation Whatever your learning interests and needs, Outlets Newport Community
Williamstown book sale Friends of Williamstown and Newport Libraries hold a book sale every second Saturday of each month 9.30am-12.30pm. The book sale is held in the friends’ room. Cash only sales. ■ libraries.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au
Walking group The Altona Meadows and Newport Heart Foundation Walking Group is a local community of men and women committed to walking and socialising together with a post-walk coffee and chat and enjoying
the natural beauty and birdlife that is to be found throughout Hobsons Bay together. Anyone is welcome to join the group on Mondays 10am at Altona Beach, Wednesdays 10am at Altona Meadows (Jolly Miller Cafe) or on Fridays 10am, at Newport Lakes. ■ Ian Watson, 0411 566 862 or https:// ow.ly/TQ3j50PP1Ap
Altona Day View Club The Altona Day View Club meets on the third Wednesday each Month at 11am, at the Altona RSL 31 Sargood StREET, Altona VIC. ■ Marion, 9394 6557
boasts more than 50 stalls showcasing everything from handmade craft, homegrown produce and food vendors. There will also be live music. From 10am4pm. ■ www.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/Community/ Whats-On/Williamstown-Craft-Market
Musicians Wanted Do you play woodwind, brass or percussion and are looking for a welcoming place to play enjoyable and challenging music? The Westgate Concert Band is seeking new members. Rehearsals are held Saturdays during school terms, 9am to noon at Braybrook College. ■ westgateconcertband@gmail.com
Woodcarving Workshop The woodcarving workshop meets on Tuesdays at 9:30-noon at Hobsons Bay Men’s Shed, 280 Queens Street, Altona. All levels of ability in this ancient, international craft are welcome, women included, starter tools and timber available. ■ jah2802rot@gmail.com
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.
Alcoholics Anonymous – Williamstown 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
Free English conversation class Is English your second language? Do you want to improve your English skills and meet new people? Practise English conversation in informal interactive group sessions. Light refreshments provided. Mondays during school terms, from 1pm-3pm, at the Altona Library. ■ Joe Pellone, 0431 915 970, or joepellone@gmail.com, or Jill Mackenzie, 0439 994 705, or jill.mackenzie111@ gmail.com
Free walking group A free walking group meets every Wednesday, during school terms, at 10.15am from Joan Kirner House, 14 Thompson Street, Williamstown. ■ Tahlia, 9397 6168
Free community morning tea A free community meeting tea occurs every Wednesday at 11am in Joan Kirner House foyer, 14 Thompson Street, Williamstown. ■ Tahlia, 9397 6168
Wednesday walking group The Williamstown Community Centre offers a regular Wednesday walking group that walks the local area, 10.15am-11am. New members are welcome. This activity is free and includes morning tea. ■ 9397 6168
Williamstown Craft Market Commonwealth Reserve comes alive on the third Sunday of the month for the Williamstown Craft Market. The market
Heritage walks Enjoy a leisurely one-and-a-half hour walk around historic Williamstown and nearby suburbs with guide John. Walks start at 9.20 am each Tuesday outside the Visitor Information Centre in Nelson Place. Each week is a different week and a printed sheet with the route and points of interest provided each week. Walks are leisurely and usually end at a cafe for a tea/coffee. ■ John, 0418 377 336
Wednesday, 18 October, 2023 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 19
PUZZLES To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.
easy
8 1 6 7 4 1 3 5 1 4 6 7 2 6 4 1
2 9 5 7 7
8 1 5
4
4 8 5 6 9 3
7
medium
7
5
3
8 4
6 8 2 3 2 5 2 9 9 1
9
QUICK CROSSWORD ACROSS
DOWN
Scanty (6) Large quantities or numbers of people (6) In the midst of (5) Urban dwelling (9) Assertion (9) Fat (5) Wired (6) Conjectural (4) Ridge of rock, sand or coral just above the surface of the sea (4) Dairy product (6) Collector’s book (5) Invigorating drug (9) Place in new arrangement (9) Live (5) 14-line poem (6) Grain (6)
1 3 9 11 12 13 14 15 19
20 24 25 27 28 29 30
No. 155
Photograph (8) Cute (8) Male name (7) Natives of Stockholm (6) Long seat (6) Labyrinth (4) Breed of dog (7) Inexperienced (coll) (5) Poor labourer of low social status (7) Calming (8) Abstaining from liquor (8) Regret (7) Place of residence (5) Seal’s tusked cousin (6) Get (6) Wild mountain goat (4)
1 2 4 5 6 7 8 10 16 17 18 19 21 22 23 26
DECODER
No. 155
5 3 2
4 6 8 4 3 8
2
6 hard
5
3 8
6
1
9
10 11 12 13
14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26
S 17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
C
ALOUD AORTA ASKED ATONE BORES BRATS BRAVO CARGO CARPS CARTS CODED CRUDE EDGED EDICT ESSAY FREER FURRY GEESE GONNA IDEAL MEETS
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
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13
8 1 6 5 9 7 4 3 2 7 4 5 2 1 3 8 6 9 9 3 2 6 4 8 1 5 7 5 2 1 4 6 9 3 7 8 3 8 4 7 5 2 9 1 6 6 7 9 3 8 1 5 2 4 2 6 8 9 3 5 7 4 1 4 9 3 1 7 6 2 8 5 1 5 7 8 2 4 6 9 3
7 1 9 2 5 4 3 6 8 3 6 5 8 7 9 2 1 4 4 8 2 3 6 1 5 7 9 6 7 4 1 8 2 9 5 3 8 5 3 6 9 7 4 2 1 2 9 1 4 3 5 6 8 7 5 3 7 9 1 6 8 4 2 9 2 6 7 4 8 1 3 5 1 4 8 5 2 3 7 9 6
5 4 7 9 3 8 2 1 6 3 6 2 1 5 4 7 9 8 1 9 8 2 6 7 5 4 3 7 2 5 8 9 6 1 3 4 4 8 3 7 1 2 9 6 5 6 1 9 3 4 5 8 2 7 9 7 1 4 8 3 6 5 2 2 3 6 5 7 9 4 8 1 8 5 4 6 2 1 3 7 9
9-LETTER WORD 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”.
P
Today’s Aim: 11 words: Good 16 words: Very good
L
N
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C A
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4 LETTERS DABS DEAD DIPS DISH DOGS DUES LYRE ODDS RODS SEEM SLED SWAM TOSS TSAR
SNAGS SPEED STEAM STYLE VENUE WASN’T WHENS
7 LETTERS DRAWERS ERECTED HALTERS SENSORY TRESTLE WHISPER
6 LETTERS CIRCLE CLIENT HEATED SCREEN
8 LETTERS CURTAINS SERVANTS SHRAPNEL TRINKETS
20-10-23
1
What term is more commonly used to refer to a socket wrench?
Insert the missing letters to make 10 words – five reading across the grid and five reading down.
2
Sophie Okonedo (pictured) played Tatiana Rusesabagina in which film?
NOTE: more than one solution may be possible
3
Is Lake Argyle a natural or artificial lake?
4
Who has appeared the greatest number of times in Time magazine’s annual list of most influential people in the world?
No. 155
I
N T
R O A S T A C U T E M E D I A
20 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 18 October, 2023
A
S
S
P
N O T
N
QUICK QUIZ
S
A
MESSY NEEDS OBOES OCTAL ODOUR OFFER OILED OTHER OZONE PAGAN REUSE ROUGE ROUND ROUTE RUING SAUNA SAVER SCENT SCRAM SIEVE SLEPT
calm, camp, cilia, cilium, claim, clam, clamp, clan, clap, clip, clump, cumin, iliac, laic, manic, mica, MUNICIPAL, panic, pica, uncap, uncial, unclip
D O
8
16
S
T T
A
7
15
M
6
No. 155
6 ( 1 6 2 5 <
5 LETTERS ALONE
A C
5
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Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com
R
4
22 words: Excellent
hard
5x5
3
14
medium
2
3 LETTERS ACT ADO AND ARE CAB CUE DOT EBB ERR EVE EWE GUN HOE IDS ILL INN IOU SAC SAP TNT TOT URN USE ZAC
VUHN B E K Y OX R L Z
easy
1
T J WM G P D I A F Q S C
7 5 4 9 1 8 3 7 2 9 6 9 4 7 1 6 9 8 6 2 9
WORDFIT
5
Who wrote the 1971 novel The Day of the Jackal?
6
Yerevan is the capital of which country?
7
Ashkenazi Jews are those descended from medieval Jewish communities in which country?
8
What are the four stages of a butterfly’s life cycle?
9
Which is the richer source of vitamin A: a) egg, b) mango or c) broccoli leaf?
10 What derogatory term is used to refer to the alien population in the film District 9? ANSWERS: 1. Ratchet 2. Hotel Rwanda 3. Artificial 4. Oprah Winfrey 5. Frederick Forsyth 6. Armenia 7. Germany 8. Egg, larva, pupa, adult 9. c) broccoli leaf 10. Prawns
No. 155
& $ 5 7 6 2 & 7 $ / 6 , ( 9 ( ) 8 5 5 < & 2 ' ( ' $ / 2 1 ( 5 2 8 7 ( ) 5 ( ( 5 5 8 , 1 * * 8 1 0 ( ( 7 6 ( : ( & 8 ( % 5 $ 7 6 + ( $ 7 ( ' 2 ' ' 6 & $ % , / / , 1 1 2 % 2 ( 6 1 ( ( ' 6 ' $ % 6 7 5 , 1 . ( 7 6 ' , 3 6 7 2 7 6 ( 1 6 2 5 < + $ / 7 ( 5 6 ( 9 ( ' ( $ ' 6 + 5 $ 3 1 ( / 5 2 ' 6 & 5 8 ' ( * ( ( 6 ( $ & 7 ( 5 5 8 6 ( & , 5 & / ( 6 $ 9 ( 5 ' 2 * 6 , ' 6 : $ 6 1 7 ' 2 7 $ ' 2 5 ( 8 6 ( : + ( 1 6 2 = 2 1 ( $ 2 5 7 $ 6 $ 8 1 $ 3 $ * $ 1 0 ( 6 6 < 6 & 5 $ 0 6 / ( 3 7
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Wednesday, 18 October, 2023 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 21
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0488 816 557
AMAZING GARDEN SERVICES Specialist in • Lawn mowing • Edging Pruning / Hedge Trimming • Regular Maintenance • Rubbish Removals • Tree Lopping • Gutter Cleaning
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Contact Adam 0422 250 675
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AA CABINETS Specializing in: • Kitchens • Wardrobes • Vanities • Custom Built Storage Space For a free quote please contact Andy 0408 081 888 Showroom: 45 Knight Ave, Sunshine North Email: aacabinets@outlook.com.au
Call Sam 0450 820 170 - 7 days
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Call Chris 9399 8104 or 0419 329 550
seaview
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0439 858 298
SMALL SMALL CONCRETING CONCRETING JOBS JOBS "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
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Services • Repairs • Maintenance Over 30 years experience, All types of Air Con, Evap Cooler & Gas Heating System AU31693
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V Bricklayers
All Foliage/Rubbish Removed
Ecrom Maintenance
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
12586003-MS03-23
Reshaped Grubbed out.
Call John 0433 911 967 or 9395 5019
12416265-CG17-19
Trees Pruned
� Carpentry � Doors � Painting � Wallpapering � Tiling � Flat Pack Assembly � All Odd Jobs No job too small - Free Quotes
Kitchens & Bathroom Renovations
ANY TREES LOPPED
JOHN’S HANDYMAN SERVICES
· 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.
8348 5441
V Handy Persons 12420493-CG25-19
Office 3 / 250 Barkly St Footscray VIC 3011 www.kipmcgrath.com.au/footscray
Top Quality Guaranteed EST. 2008
• Domestic • Commercial • Interior • Exterior • New Homes • Renovation • Plaster Repairs • Roof Painting Call for a Free Quote
0416 561 594 0403 610 782 www.saidaspaintingau.com
Find it in the
General section of Network Classifieds.
12593192-AI10-23
12573255-HC42-22
Deadline for all classifications is 2:30pm Tuesday.
• 40 Years Family FR Owned & Operated QUO EE TES • 25 Year Warranty • Senior/Pensioner Discount #1 in ALTONA
Gates & Pergolas Lou 0412 339 445 Tony 0431 339 739
12402755-RA44-18
V Fencing & Gates
12589846-AA07-23
Kip McGrath Education Centres Footscray • Call Oskar on 9687 1799
Upgrade • Rangehoods • Lighting • Security Systems • Split Systems • Data Cabling
Ph: 9360 0466 * DOMESTIC * INDUSTRIAL * COMMERCIAL
12631170-ET35-23
• Power Point 5 OAKDENE GROVE LAVERTON • Switches • Switchboard VIC 3028
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Lic. No. 28635
MIRMIC PLUMBING 12530339-JW02-22
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Call Mick 0417 352 040
TING S PAINnte SAIDA’alit y Guara ed Top Qu EST. 2008
r mmercial • Interio n tio • Domestic • CoHo va no Re • mes w • Exterior • Nepa Painting of Ro • irs Re r • Plaste 1 594
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Fill your position online
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PH: 9360 5357 Mobile: 0412 378 193 G6795050AA-dc29Apr 1132314-LB19-14
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12447332-NG17-20
12449427-FA21-20
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Brimbank & North West Star Weekly
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Contact Bluey today! 0448 444 233 12426454-DJ37-19
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ADVERTISERS, in this section are qualified practitioners and offer nonsexual services. V Adult Services AMBER 22yo. Just arrived. New in town. Excellent service. Hot and sexy. Avail. now. 0478 770 536.
DAWSONS
ALL SUBURBS ★ RAISING ★ LEVELLING ★ UNDERPINNING ★ RESTUMPING WITH CONCRETE OR REDGUM STUMPS ★ COUNCIL PERMIT ★ ALL WORK GUARANTEED Registered Building Practitioner
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Rainbow Club
• LARGE TREE SPECIALISTS • HEDGE TRIMMING EXPERTS • STUMP GRINDING • MULCH AVAILABLE • CONSULTING ARBORIST • No Fuss • No Mess • No Stress
☎ 9720 5111 ANY TREES LOPPED Trees Pruned Reshaped Grubbed out. All Foliage/Rubbish Removed Fully Insured $10m Pensioner Discount
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DISCRIMINATION IN ADVERTISING IS UNLAWFUL
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
12423634-SN31-19
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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.
Professional Services
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Buy, Rent & Sell in our
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MYOB Experience Preferred. Accounts processing, chasing money and filing. All training is provided. Please post or email your current CV to: Absolute Rubber Pty Ltd, 46-52 Hume Road, Laverton North 3026 or email: cynthiat@absoluterubber.com.au
LMCT 10268W
7 days a week service Call Gus for a free quotation on
Buy & Sell in our
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0435 904 818
$
29 .00
• 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. • The publisher reserves the right to decline any booking for the purpose of ongoing gain.
Wyndham Star Weekly 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. 12593578-AV11-23
Wednesday, 18 October, 2023 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 23
MOTORING STARWEEKLY.COM.AU
Alfa Romeo Tonale Ti road test By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring Right now, this is your cheapest ticket into the glamorous, alluring world of the Italian marque Alfa Romeo. The Tonale is a small SUV that is available at the moment only as a fuel-saving hybrid, which could be a real bonus depending on your perspective. Some drivers may hunger for something a bit spicier, say the larger more powerful 2.0-litre turbo from Stelvio. Named after a mountain pass in Northern Italy, Tonale sits on the same platform as the Jeep Compass and is a little brother to the mid-sized Stelvio, but still seats five like Stelvio. It’s also available as a more expensive plug-in hybrid, while a re-badged, re-styled version is sold as the Dodge Hornet in the United States. Styling Tonale is available in three grades: Ti, Veloce and Plug-In Hybrid Q4. Prices start from $49,900 for Ti, $56,400 for Veloce and $77,500 for Plug-In Hybrid Q4 - all prices before on-road costs. Metallic paint is $1600 and our test vehicle, the entry Ti, was fitted with the $4500 Lusso options pack includes perforated leather trim, a heated steering wheel, heated and cooled front seats, power adjust driver and passenger front seats with driver memory and 14-speaker Harman Kardon audio. Standard kit includes 18-inch alloys, keyless entry and go, anodised brake calipers, auto high beam, electric park brake, auto dimming mirror, auto lights and wipers and front and rear park sensors. You also get a body-coloured rear spoiler and door handles, gloss black painted body kit with satin chrome inserts, black painted power-fold heated exterior mirrors with Italian flag, and automatic full LED matrix headlights with adaptive driving beam and dynamic turn indicator. Inside there’s dual zone climate air with rear air vents, carbon cloth and leatherette seats with ‘Electro’ welded Alfa logo and Biscotto stitching, manual adjust front seats with power lumbar for driver, leather steering wheel with start button, soft-touch dashboard finisher with beige stitching and 3D insert, 60:40 split rear seats with ski-pass, black headliner, front and rear floor mats and aluminium pedals. Colours available in Alfa White, Alfa Red, Alfa Black, Vesuvio Grey Metallic, Misano Blue Metallic and Montreal Green Tri-Coat (Veloce only). Tonale is covered by a five-year unlimited kilometre warranty, with five-year roadside assistance. Service intervals are 12 months or 15,000km. Infotainment An all-new infotainment system, with a 12.3-inch instrument cluster and 10.25-inch touchscreen navigation system, with AM/FM/ DAB+ digital radio, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and six-speaker audio. There’s also wireless phone charging and front and rear USB A/C ports and 12-volt outlets in the front and cargo area. With the My Alfa Connect app users can remotely access their vehicle using their mobile phone using services such as vehicle finder and remote operations. Engines/transmissions A 1.5-litre four-cylinder, petrol engine coupled with a 15kW electric motor produces 118kW of power at 5750 rpm and 240Nm of torque at 1500 rpm. Power is transmitted to the front wheels through a seven-speed dual clutch transmission. Safety Five-star safety includes six airbags, a rear-view camera and autonomous emergency braking (AEB) with vulnerable road users. There’s also adaptive cruise control with stop and go, forward collision warning, lane support system (lane departure warning + lane keep assist), driver drowsy detection, traffic sign recognition with intelligent speed
Tonale - you can’t beat that million-dollar style.
Tonale - you can’t beat that million-dollar style.
assist and tyre pressure monitoring. Driving Tonale sits 4528mm long and weighs 1491kg, with a braked towing capacity of 1500kg. The dash from 0-100km/h takes 8.8 seconds and it has a top speed of 212km/h. With a 55-litre tank, it takes premium 95 unleaded with fuel consumption a claimed 5.6L/100km. Energy is recovered during periods of decelerating and braking, which is stored in the 0.8kWh battery for later use. It can operate on electric power alone at speeds of up to 15km/h, which means silent starts and happy neighbours. The fully independent suspension features McPherson struts and ‘unique’ sway bars at either end, while the 18-inch wheels are shod with chunky Continental 235/50 series rubber. Koni supplies frequency selective dampers that adjust the level of hydraulic damping based on the road surface, improving handling but retaining a comfortable ride. A space saver spare is provided. Matrix LED headlights are able to shut down individual LEDs, keeping high beam active but preventing on-coming traffic from being dazzled, in a kind of halo effect. Unique brake-by-wire technology delivers strong, aggressive braking. The 48-volt mild hybrid delivers respectable performance and fuel economy, but we expected a little more excitement. It is after all an Alfa and that’s why people buy them the last time we checked. The hybrid is happy to comply, with a rasp
24 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 18 October, 2023
when you punch the throttle, but ultimately lacks torque when it comes to firing out of corners. And then there’s an all too familiar ‘jerky’ twin clutch tranny and surprising lack of gear change paddles, which is not exactly encouraging. It smacks of cost cutting and together with the price, suggests the premium brand is looking to pick up a bit of mainstream action. The more expensive Veloce gets paddles, while the plug-in scores a conventional six-speed auto. Switching to dynamic mode is transformative and the engine tries hard with a little help from its electric friend, but it really needs some more get up and go. On a more positive note, ride and handling are excellent, especially the ride quality which sets a new benchmark for the brand. The car corners flat with plenty of grip from the Continentals, on well-formed bitumen at least. Dirt is another story. The brake-by-wire stoppers are similarly impressive, biting hard and fast. But the steering is odd. It’s sharp and responsive and provides good feedback, but is very light and doesn’t seem to weight-up even in Dynamic mode. Of note our test vehicle had a rattle from the instrument cluster which is sure to drive someone crazy trying to figure out where it is coming from. Sometime later the dash began flashing a warning.
Lane Assist was not available - clean windscreen! Is that all it takes? The instrument cluster itself is fully digitised, but offers just the one theme that is designed around analogue-style gauges, with a central information area that can be scrolled, but working out how to do this is a challenge. Physical buttons are provided for the aircon and a roller-style volume control for audio in the centre console. While Android Auto is conveniently wireless, actually connecting to it with our phone was also problematic. The phone told us to follow prompts from the car touchscreen, but there were none and it took a couple of minutes to find Android Auto buried in the menu system. When it did finally hook up, it worked fine. We were getting 6.8L/100km after 360km of mixed driving. Summing Up The Alfa Tonale Ti is a likeable car offered at an attractive price. While there’s no mistaking it for an Alfa, close your eyes and it doesn’t feel like an Alfa. The drive experience is not engaging and we wonder how many corners Alfa cut to get the car down to the price. More power, paddle shifts and the Lusso pack should all be part of the deal – or you could spend $6500 more for the Veloce. Effectively, however, adding the Lusso pack is the only way to get power-adjust seats with either grade.
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United lose season opener Western United suffered defeat in its first match of the 2023/24 A-League Women season, falling 2-0 to Perth Glory on Saturday night. After spurning a couple of chances in the first half, United was punished by Susan Phonsongkham’s opener soon after the restart. As United continued to push for an equaliser, Perth sprung a counter attack and Grace Jale doubled the lead with just over 10 minutes remaining to all but secure the win for the hosts. Mark Torcaso’s first starting 11 of the season featured 10 players from last season’s side with Grace Maher slotting in at the back to make her debut for the Club. Would-be debutants in Keiwa Hieda and Kiara De Domizio lay in waiting on the bench, while Alyssa Dall’Oste made the first start of her professional career in goal. Chloe Logarzo missed due to personal reasons and will return in round two against Melbourne Victory. As the game kicked off It was at high energy as United immediately got on the front and won a corner in the opening seconds before Perth forced a turnover in United’s box and nearly created a chance on goal. The first shot on target came from the hosts after Maher’s delicately lifted ball from a free-kick invited Emma Robers to leap, but her header looped comfortably into Morgan Aquino’s arms. Perth enjoyed a period of dominance early on but United’s threat going forward remained superior with Hannah Keane coming close, forcing a good save after pinching the ball in the box. Adriana Taranto had perhaps the closest chance in the game’s opening quarter when she rippled the side netting with a sweeping effort before she came even closer just before the half hour mark.
United’s Hannah Keane (AAP Image/Richard Wainwright)
Vlajnic whipped a superb cross into the box and Taranto took up a perfect position in between two Perth defenders, but Aquino was equal to her powerful header to push it around the post. Despite having the better of the chances overall, United was unable to take advantage and break the deadlock in the first period, leaving work to be done in the second half. After the break United’s inability to convert in the first half proved pivotal as Perth came roaring out of the interval to snatch the lead
within five minutes of the restart. It was a turnover from United that sent Perth on their way and when the ball made its way to Phonsongkham on the edge of the area, the Thai-born attacker bent a shot into the back of the net with Perth’s first shot on target of the contest. Torcaso turned to the bench to hand De Domizio a professional debut and one of her first contributions helped to win a free kick on the right wing. Vlajnic saw an opportunity to swing the
dead ball towards goal and couldn’t believe she hadn’t scored when her effort crashed onto the crossbar before falling right on the goal line and being whisked away by Perth’s scrambling defence. A series of corners failed to produce a Western United equaliser and the left the door open for Perth to kill the game off with a second. That’s exactly what they did with 10 minutes remaining as Jale was played through on goal before rifling a strike into the roof of the net.
SPORTS QUIZ 1. F1 athlete Carlos Sainz is known for singing which song post-race, for which fans have also declared his nickname? 2. How old was Jess Fox when she won her first medal at the Olympics? 3. The Geelong Cats play at which stadium, commonly known as ‘the cattery’?
4. In which city was the first Winter Olympics held? 5. For the first time in history, which two Italian cities will host the 2026 Winter Olympics? 6. Which tennis star called her coach’s departure ‘immoral’ following his decision to train Naomi Osaka mid-contract? 7. For the first time, what day will next year’s Australian Open start on? 8. Who won 2022 AFLW best and fairest? 9. Which Aussie tennis player was disqualified at the Shanghai Masters tournament for hitting an umpire with the ball? 10. Who is the only AFL coach to have never played a game of AFL/VFL? 11. Who did Australia lose to in their opening match of the 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup?
David Beckham
Simone Biles
14. Taylor Adams and Brodie Grundy have joined which AFL side for the 2024 season? 15. How long was the doping suspension served by Australian swimmer Shayna Jack? 16. How many games did the Wallabies win at the 2023 Rugby World Cup? 17. And who will host the 2027 edition of the Rugby World Cup? 18. Who won Collingwood’s Best and Fairest Award for the 2023 season? 19. Who won Penrith’s Player of the Year Award for the 2023 season? 20. Which NBL team plays some home games at the State Basketball Centre? 21. Kenya’s Kelvin Kiptum broke the marathon world record competing in which US city? 22. How many balls did it take Jake Fraser-McGurk to make the fastest ever one-day century in a 50-over cricket match?
23. Damian Lillard plays for which NBA team? 24. How many club best and fairest has Clayton Oliver won for the Melbourne Football Club? 25. Husband and wife Adam Elliott and Millie Boyle both play for which NRL club?
28. How many times has American artistic gymnast Simone Biles been crowned all-around world champion? 29. David Beckham played five games during his senior EPL career on loan to which soccer club? 30. Dick Butkus played for which NFL team?
26. Lacrosse, squash, baseball, softball, flag football and which other sport have been proposed for inclusion at the 2028 Olympics? 27. Australian professional baseballer Curtis Mead plays for which MLB team?
1. Smooth Operator 2. 18 years old (London 2012) 3. GMHBA Stadium 4. Chamonix, France (1924) 5. Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo 6. Zheng Qinwen 7. Sunday 8. Emily Bates 9. Marc Polmans 10. Chris Fagan (Brisbane Lions) 11. India 12. Shane van Gisbergen 13. West Indies 14. Sydney 15. 24 months 16. Two 17. Australia 18. Josh Daicos 19. Isaah Yeo 20. South East Melbourne Phoenix 21. Chicago 22. 29 23. Milwaukee Bucks 24. Four 25. Sydney Roosters 26. Cricket 27. Tampa Bay Rays 28. Six 29. Preston North End 30. Chicago Bears
2010
12. Richie Stanaway and which other driver won the 2023 Bathurst 1000?
13. Hayley Matthews is a star batter for which cricket team?
Wednesday, 18 October, 2023 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 25
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Bulldogs lose three to injuries in loss to Crows The Western Bulldogs slow AFLW start continued on Friday night against Adelaide at Norwood Oval. The Bulldogs are yet to register a win from their first seven matches of the season, this is the first time they have started a season 0-7 since the scrapping of the conference system in 2020, while the Crows remain undefeated with just three rounds left. The Dogs were on the back foot from the outset, losing 9.5 (59)-2.5 (17). Alice Edmonds (25 hitouts) starred in the ruck for the forlorn Bulldogs alongside Naomi Ferres (six intercept possessions), while the usually prolific Ellie Blackburn overcame a rare slow start to collect a game-high 13 contested possessions. With the Bulldogs losing gun forwards Deanna Berry (leg) and Celine Moody (shoulder) to season-ending injuries earlier in the week, the visitors were further hit when young midfielder Keeley Coyne went
down with a knee injury five minutes into the opening quarter. Less than two minutes later, fellow teammate Kirsten McLeod was taken out of the game with a concussion. Sarah Hartwig kicked a major to keep the visitors alive but Adelaide picked apart the rattled Bulldogs to gain a four-point lead before quarter-time. And just when life couldn’t get worse, the Bulldogs lost Dominique Carruthers in a courageous marking contest against Eloise Jones in the second term. “I was extremely proud of them,” Bulldogs’ coach Chris Grant said. To have three players down at the start of the second quarter… to keep them to 59 (points) was enormous, top team playing a bottom team who’s lost three players in perfect conditions you probably think they are kicking 90 odd. “I’ve been proud of them a lot but probably
never as proud as what I am tonight. With just three rounds to go in the home and away season, Grant said there is still a lot to play for. “We still want to win, we’re still aiming to win games,” he said. “As I said to the coaches, this is where we need to earn our money, this is when coaching needs to comes to the fore. “You really need to coach as best as you can, I think our assistant coaches have been sensational.” While it has been a “tricky” season to navigate, amid losses and injuries, Grant said the mentality of his group has been fantastic. “Most of the credit goes to the players, they are just a really connected, resilient group,” he said. “I give 90 per cent of the credit for how they are mentally to the actual playing group themselves.”
Bulldogs’ captain Ellie Blackburn (AAP Image/James Ross)
Turf cricket season begins
Williamstown celebrating goals on and off the pitch. (Joe Mastroianni) 271085_07
Experience at the helm By Harper Sercombe Williamstown has announced Steve Iosifidis as its coach for the FV state league 3 north-west season. Iosifidis comes with a wealth of experience with over 20 years around senior soccer. He predominantly played in the Victorian Premier League and National Soccer League level with Heidelberg United, Essendon Royals, Kingston City and Melbourne Knights. However, potentially his most notable achievements came during his six-year spell at South Melbourne, claiming back-to-back NSL championships under Ange Postecoglou. Following his playing days Iosifidis quickly transitioned into coaching with success with the Caulfield Cobras and Hoppers Crossing to championship winning seasons in 2013 and 2015, as well as Altona Magic in 2018 in an assistant role which resulted in their return to National Premier League 1. Football director Jason Drozdek said he couldn’t be happier with the appointment. “It’s a pretty big coup for our club to bring in someone of Steve’s pedigree and his experience,” Drozdek said.
“He’s also a local which very much aligns with our club, we’re very much a community club, we do want to try and professionalise ourselves a little bit but we also want to maintain our community and family values. “So Steve really ticks all of those boxes.” Iosifidis replaces former coach Dushan Nikolic who had to give up the role due to personal reasons. “Our preference was for Dush to continue, but due to family and work commitments, it made that almost impossible for him,” Drozdek said. “It was very much an amicable split.” Nikolic was able to take the squad to third last season, just a point of promotion, something that Iosifidis is hoping to build on. “We had a very good season,” Drozdek said. “We’ve got a pretty strong squad, and we’ve also got quite a few young boys coming in. “Our reserve team has won the championship two years on the bounce and they’re a very young team. “What we want to do next year will encompass the same core group of players and then we might need to top up here and there. “But there won’t be wholesale changes, we’re not looking for Steve to bring in too many
26 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 18 October, 2023
players.” The club has been in the top four of state 3, since the 2019 season, without managing to get promoted, however, with the club settled on and off the field, Drozdek said the club is ready to take the leap. “It (promotion) has been the club’s objective for the last four or five years,” he said. “It’s just taking that next step, but I think we’re in a much better place now. “With the completion of our new facilities, a much more comprehensive junior structure, we’re ready to take that next step and hopefully that translates to our senior team next year.” The junior structure at the club has seen massive growth and improvement as of late, and is something that Drozdek thinks will continue to keep growing. “It’s been huge,” he said. “We’re back up to pre Covid levels of about 550 players total, club wide. “We want to be the club for Williamstown… we want to represent the local community and the surrounding suburbs. “That’s reflected in our membership numbers and that growth will continue next year, we’re already looking at a minimum of 10 to 15 per cent growth again.”
The Victorian Turf Cricket Association kicked off over the weekend with the first day of the two day clashes taking place. In the senior division Yarraville Club was sent in to bat by Sunshine United and got off to a shaky start. The Clubbers found themselves at 6-64, with Nandhalal Subramaniyam Sangaran and Mathieson King at the crease. These two were able to give their side a target to bowl at, putting on an 110 run stand before King fell for 53. Nathan Johnson then came to the crease, scoring 29 in a cameo off 28 balls. However the star of the show was Sangaran with his 103 not out. United will chase 236 for victory. In division 2, Williamstown CYMS were also sent in to bat on Saturday afternoon against Tullamarine. The CY’s opening stand lasted just 10 balls before Angus Groen was run out for two. Bill Millar (41), Ben Johnson (36) and Nicholas Mullaly (35) top scored for the CYs. Tullamarine are chasing 193 to win. In division 3, Williamstown Imperials were also sent in to bat by Point Cook. Again the bowling side was able to take both opening batsmen for not many. Coming in at 3-40, skipper Andrew Hendry was able to steady the ship, making a handy half century off 79 balls. The tail order wasn’t able to contribute in any significant way to the score, losing the last five wickets for just 42 runs. Point Cook were set 174 for victory, and will start next week at 2-46.
Yarraville’s James Damjanovski (Joe Mastroianni) 309726_01
SPORT One of the AFLW’s most exciting prospects It’s been a challenging year for the Western Jets’ Kristie-Lee Weston-Turner, however things are looking promising in the lead up to the AFLW draft. The midfielder who can double as a key forward is an extremely exciting prospect, with undoubtable athleticism and talent. The year 11 student said she is enjoying this exciting time in her life and trying her best to embrace what is being thrown at her. “I’m very nervous but I’m also very excited,” she said. “I’ve just been trying to take it all in and take a deep breath and actually enjoy what’s happening because it’s a once in a lifetime opportunity.” Weston-Turner unfortunately suffered a broken wrist after just two games of the Talent League season which saw her miss the next 12 weeks of footy.
“At that time I felt really stressed because I wasn’t sure what would happen because clubs hadn’t seen much of my footy,” she said. “They would go off last year a little bit but over summer I really improved on everything that I wanted to and I was really keen. “I felt super fit going into the season and then to have that happen kind of felt like a knife in the back. “But I was just going to focus on what I can do, and that was running, what I can’t do is play footy but I can still sit on the sidelines, I can learn from my games, I can do vision with my coaches. “I didn’t want to let my negative energy impact the team… I always wanted to stay in a happy mood and I think that definitely helped.” Weston-Turner didn’t miss a beat upon her return to the field, kicking two goals and
having 19 touches on her Jets return and then kicking 1.4 for Vic Metro as well as being named amongst the best players. Being a professional footballer has always been the dream for Weston-Turner, from playing juniors in a team full of boys, believing she would grow up to play in the men’s competition, to women’s pathways opening up and her taking full advantage of them. “To be in a professional environment where I get to live out my dream, and eventually and hopefully work full-time just doing it, being a professional athlete would mean the absolute world to me,” she said. “Living out my childhood dream, which my family and friends are all so supportive of and just want the best for me.” Kristie-Lee Weston-Turner (Graham Denholm, AFL
Harper Sercombe
Photos)
Baskaran is a rising star
Logan Morris (Morgan Hancock/AFL Photos)
Draft ‘means everything’ By Harper Sercombe Five weeks is a long time in football but for one young gun the next 30 days couldn’t move quicker. With the AFL draft scheduled for November 20, it’s an interesting time in the life of the Western Jets’ Logan Morris, as each day passes, nerves and excitement builds. “I’m feeling pretty confident,” Morris said. “Getting a bit nervous now that it’s getting a bit closer but I’m trying to take it week by week and trying to do other things to distract me and not think about the draft too much.” The Werribee District’s product is a 191 centimetre hybrid player who has proved himself at both ends of the ground, showcasing his range of talents and work ethic. Morris enjoyed a dominant year for the Jets booting 30 goals from his 10 outings for the club. The 18-year-old also applied his craft for Vic Metro, including a four goal haul against Western Australia, and slotted two in his Victorian Football League debut for Werribee. “I feel like I’ve had a pretty good year, off the
back of a massive preseason,” he said. “Trying to set myself up to have a big year and try to play consistent footy. “Setting myself up and going out week by week and just focusing on training, having a big week on the track and then trying to back that up on the weekend.” Playing across a variety of teams throughout the season has helped Morris enhance his football by picking up bits and pieces from across the board. “Training at the highest level and being surrounded with elite players and players that I look up to and try and base my game off, you learn so much,” he said. “And get better as an athlete and as a person, being around an elite environment.” An AFL player that Morris looks up to and said he bases his game around is Collingwood’s premiership key forward, Brody Mihocek. “We’re similar heights and his ability to get up the ground and his work rate, ability to hit the scoreboard and take contested marks,” Morris said. “[Contested marking] is definitely one of my strengths and I try to use that the best I can in games and ability to hit the scoreboard
is probably my other strength.” To further encompass all of what Mihocek does, Morris said he is still working on his fitness, although it’s an area he has seen improvements in. “Definitely trying to build my tank,” he said. “Especially if I do get onto an [AFL] list, that’s probably the main thing that I need to get better at, just to cover the ground a bit more, get to more contests. “That’s the one thing I’m working on this pre-season, just to get as fit as I can leading into next year.” It truly would be a dream come true for Morris if he were to find his way into an AFL club next month. “It would mean everything,” he said. “I’ve been working to this for my whole life, and it’s something I’ve dreamt of since I was a young kid. “To make my family proud and myself as well, just for the hard work I’ve put in and to get the reward for it, I’d be grateful for that and I can’t wait to see what my future holds.”
Former Western Jets’ talent now Hawthorn midfielder Charlotte Baskaran has been recognised as a round six AFLW rising star nominee following a strong outing against St Kilda. In just her 16th game at the highest level, the 18-year-old put in an impressive performance in Moorabbin with 14 disposals, including 11 contested possessions, along with a game-high 12 tackles. Baskaran has shown gradual improvement across her six games this season, averaging 13 disposals, 5.8 contested possessions and 4.3 tackles per outing. Since being drafted by the Hawks with pick nine last year, the Aberfeldie product has played every possible game for the brown and gold, along with balancing her year 12 studies last season. Baskaran joins fellow midfielder Jasmine Fleming as Hawthorn’s second rising star nomination in 2023. Hawthorn general manager of football operations Max Bailey congratulated Baskaran on her recognition. “It’s fantastic to see Charlotte get rewarded for the work she’s done,” Bailey said. “The nomination is a reflection of the hours she’s put in and as the youngest Hawk on our list, we’re excited to see her development continue. “She is the sort of player who is willing to take on any challenge in front of her, which was highlighted by her ability to balance her Year 12 studies just last season. “Charlotte has really leveraged off the senior players around her which we hope will lead to a long and bright future in brown and gold.” Essendon’s Amber Clarke was also nominated for her two goals and 16 disposals in the Bombers’ 10-point win against Geelong.
Wednesday, 18 October, 2023 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 27
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