Star Weekly - Hobsons Bay Maribyrnong - 6th December 2023

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A lesson in payphone use Some handy tips: • Use Free Calls to Santa to show kids how a payphone works and remind them that they can use one when it’s needed.

• Fun fact: Every payphone has a unique number you can dial from your mobile.

This is a great way to show kids what an old-fashioned phone sound like.

How to call Santa: 1/ Head to any Telstra payphone around the country from November 15 to December 24.

2/ To find your nearest payphone, hit search on Google Maps – for example- Payphones Melbourne CBD and surrounds - Google My Maps 3/ Dial #HO HO HO (#464646) 4/ Make sure you’re ready with a few questions for Santa, and to tell him what’s at the top of your wish list.

A message from Santa and a lesson in life.

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Grandchildren nationwide can now connect directly to the North Pole with Telstra’s Free Calls to Santa until December 24, by dialling # HO HO HO (#464646) for free from any of Telstra’s 14,500 payphones across Australia to speak directly with Santa.

Telstra’s Free Calls to Santa hotline is an interactive activity that allows children to enjoy the magical experience of speaking directly with Santa about anything they want, from asking about the weather in the North Pole, to what the reindeer like to snack on before their big Christmas Eve adventure, and even share this year’s wish list.

For those looking to avoid shopping centre crowds with their grandchildren, dialling Santa from any payphone across the country offers an easy and cost-free alternative. Plus, taking kids to a payphone to call Santa is a great way to teach them how to use and locate their nearest payphone in case of an emergency.

Last year there were more than 11,000 calls made from Telstra payphones to the North Pole on Christmas Eve alone. This year Santa’s elves have also helped us liven up a special selection of payphones.

Here are some handy payphone tips this holiday season.

For kids, calling Santa also provides a fun and easy way to learn how to use and locate their nearest payphone in case of an emergency.

2W MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 6 December, 2023

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From Maribyrnong City Council

Enjoy the magic of Christmas across the municipality this December with a range of activities for the whole family!

Start your festive fun early at the Seddon Fun & Games Fair, enjoy a Christmas picnic at the Braybrook Community Hub and have fun with our AR activations in West Footscray and Yarraville.

Best of all, you can take a photo with Santa and get creative with the crafty activities at Santa’s Workshop in central Footscray from December 1-23.

Download the MARIality App wherever you see this sign to start having fun with our Augmented Reality experiences.

Scan the QR code for more details.

For more information visit maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/xmas

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Wednesday, 6 December, 2023 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 3W

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Christmas lunch for all

Hayden Burley, Sanda Fisher, ‘Santa’, Lindsay Paterson and Brenton Burley. (Damjan Janevski)

Three decades of music For 30 years the Yarraville City Band has provided the highlight of the festive season with its annual Carols in the Gardens.

Organiser David Palmer said this event has been celebrated and enjoyed by the community every year.

“It is one of the major events of the year, particularly at Christmas,” he said.

“I think this is such a special time when the whole community as diverse as we are, can come together to enjoy the spirit of Christmas.”

More than 7000 people are expected to turn up to the Yarraville Gardens on Saturday, December 16 to enjoy the many talents on display.

“We have a wonderful line up of performers and nationally acclaimed vocalists who will play, including multi-award winning performer Matthew Hetherington,“ he said.

“We also have Margaret Haggart, who has performed every year for the last 30 years, as an internationally respected soprano.“ Other performances include the Yarraville City Band, Western Brass and Hyde Street Youth Band.

“Of course Santa is also going to be there before we finish off the night with a spectacular fireworks display,“ Mr Palmer said.

“It’s just such a good family feel, it is such a wonderful evening which has become multi-generational.

“There are kids who used to come who are now adults and come with their own children, it has become a real community favourite event at Christmas time.”

Mr Palmer has happily taken over organising the once a year spectacular, which originated with his father Ron who started the event 30 years ago.

The Williamstown Community and Education Centre invites everyone to its annual Christmas lunch.

Chief executive Mark Brophy and the team are excited to announce this open invitation to the community, where visitors will also get a chance to see Santa and win door prizes on entry.

In addition to the lunch, there will be entertainment to enjoy throughout the event.

“Our EAL [English as an Additional Language] students will stun with Christmas carols and we will have a performance from Jodie Whitehurst’s drama class.“ Ms Whitehurst is an EAL teacher who has won an international award, she teaches English as well as acting, drama and singing, someone who Mr Brophy said is very popular with the students.

“She is unique and a specialist in the field,“ he said. “We are quite proud to have somebody who is a leader on that special approach to learning English.

“We will, of course, have all our decorations up so we are looking forward to inviting members of the community to come and see the centre, meet people and have fun.”

Mr Brophy said they are excited that the event will be catered, a first for the centre.

“We received funding from the Hobsons Bay Community Fund, so this year we are having the lunch catered,” he said.

Chief executive of Emily’s List Australia Pamela Anderson will also attend to donate food to the community pantry for its food swap.

“We usually get a good attendance, sometimes 60 people, so everyone is welcome,“ Mr Brophy said.

Mark Brophy, Bernadette Doolan, Pilar Devia, Natalia Zaraiska, Armindo De Oliveira and Tahlia Kotiau ahead of their annual community Christmas lunch. (Damjan Janevski) 375575_01

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Hitch a ride on the festive wagon and give generously In the spirit of giving, West Welcome Wagon (WWW) is inviting the community to join its Christmas Toy Drive, ensuring that the holidays are filled with joy for asylum seeker and refugee children.

The drive, running until Friday, December 15, focuses on providing brand new gifts for more than 1000 children across all age groups, from new-borns to 17-year-olds.

Amidst the challenges of navigating the cost of living and rental crises these families are facing, WWW aims to bring smiles to the faces of young ones this festive season.

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We’re running really low at the moment and we have definitely seen an increase in demand for our material - Colette McInerney aid

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Donations of new, unwrapped toys for all age groups (0-17) are welcome, with a special call for gifts tailored to teenage girls and boys.

West Welcome Wagon chief executive Colette McInerney said the gifts will be delivered to almost 400 households that the organisation supports.

“This is my first Christmas with WWW and I’ve come to learn that the public is so incredibly generous. We love the support from the west and we’re looking forward to that generosity with great appreciation,” she said.

To contribute to this initiative, community members are encouraged to reach out to donate@westwelcomewagon.org.au or make

The team at West Welcome Wagon are busy wrapping presents for their Christmas Toy Drive. Pictured above: Chief executive Colette McInerney, with volunteers Carly Raymond, Josette Varga and Karen George. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 375965

a drop off directly to the WWW warehouse located at Unit 6, 42-46 Vella Drive in Sunshine West.

Locals can also drop their unwrapped gifts off at Bendigo Bank in Seddon, Dr Daniel Mulino’s MP office in Sunshine, or at the Commonwealth Bank Sunshine branch.

WWW is also running a Christmas appeal for financial donations to help keep the organisation floating.

“We’re running really low at the moment and we have definitely seen an increase in demand for our material aid, and for basics such as our food packs. We are hoping for

some financial donations to help us purchase other items such as fans, kitchen items, vacuum cleaners and more,” she said.

Details: https://www.westwelcomewagon. org.au/

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Wednesday, 6 December, 2023 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 5W

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‘Tis the season for giving

Win a Christmas hamper The Newport Traders Association is giving away a Christmas hamper to one lucky winner, their way of wishing the community a Merry Christmas.

Trader president Gill Gannon said the initiative was intended to encourage the community to shop locally this festive season.

“This is a new initiative we are excited to do in the lead up to Christmas,” she said.

“It is not based around an event or particular location because of the way Newport is geographically separated. For this reason we have created the elf on the shelf hamper competition.”

For the next three weeks, four elves will magically move around Newport businesses.

To enter the competition, shoppers must the find the elves, snap a photo with it and share it on their Facebook or Instagram.

They must tag the business they are in

and add the hashtag #visitnewport3015, alternatively shoppers can send through the photo or email it to the traders.

“The elves will move between member retail and hospitality businesses, this way all of the businesses can participate,” Ms Gannon said “We wanted to do something that is all about the season, and we thought the elf is a fun way of celebrating the season whilst encouraging people to remember to shop local.”

Shoppers who are keen to enter can find the elves’ location on the Newport Traders social media.

The winning prize is a hamper, which Ms Gannon said has been generously donated by members of the traders association.

“We have donations from more than 20 participating businesses, including products and vouchers,” she said.

The winner will be drawn on December 23.

Barry Russell from Innerwest Vinyl, Kate Smith from Yarraville Blooms and Brett Adamson from Willis & Anderson Cafe. (Damjan Janevski) 376507_01

Along with these free events, a Les Twentyman Foundation ‘Giving Tree’ will be located in the foyer of Grill’d for those who want to give less advantaged young people a very Merry Christmas.

6W MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 6 December, 2023

and supporting ’at-risk’ youth to create a brighter future for themselves and their families. The foundation’s programs work with young people of all ages, helping them to get back on their feet and reconnect with their families, education and the community.

Raised in the western suburbs of Melbourne, Les has dedicated his life to helping young Australians find a positive future, offering support predominantly to young people and families within the western suburbs of Melbourne.

As the ‘Giving Tree’ initiative enters its third year, residents are encouraged to make this holiday season memorable not just for their loved ones but for the entire community by sharing the gift of giving and dropping off something special at the Les Twentyman ’Giving Tree’ at Grill’d.

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Newport traders Katrina Leibel, Gopi Govindasamy and Dianne Johnston. (Supplied)

As the holiday season ushers in the spirit of generosity, residents in Melbourne’s west have the opportunity to embrace the true gift of giving.

The Yarraville Traders Association has once again partnered with the Les Twentyman Foundation for the third annual ’Giving Tree’ initiative.

Now gracing the foyer of Grill’d at 18 Anderson Street, Yarraville, locals are invited to help spread the festive spirit by participating in the ‘Giving Tree initiative’.

The Les Twentyman Foundation supports hundreds of kids who face multiple stresses holding them back from living a life that every child deserves, including poverty, mental health, unemployment, racism, addiction, domestic violence and crime.

The foundation is dedicated to helping

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Western Metropolian MP Moira Deeming with Romil from SOLVE Altona and Ross from ADE Group.

Moria Deeming visits Danny at Ocean Breeze.

It’s a privilege to serve the people of the west : MP absolute privilege this year to meet many amazing people working and living out in the west – like the mums and dads who love their kids and just want them to be healthy, get a good education and make a life for themselves.

Like the amazing volunteers who selflessly run all our local sports clubs, just because they want to help kids develop their character and enjoy the thrill of the game. Like the multicultural communities who cherish Australian democracy and proudly throw their lot in with ours.

Thank you for standing with me and I

promise that I will keep standing up for you – the hard-working people of the west!

As the year draws to a close, however you and your family spend this time - Christmas parties, end-of-year parties, the Boxing Day Test, Boxing Day sales - I wish you and your family all the best. My office will be closed for the holiday break but please reach out in 2024 if I can be of assistance to you, your family, business, school, sporting club or community group.

Moira Deeming MP

Western Metropolitan MP Moira Deeming with Dorothy McDowel and the team at Snowballs Ice Creams and Lollies.

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Although my first year as an MP has been let’s just say, tumultuous - advocating for my constituents of Western Metropolitan has been an honour.

I’ve called for fair funding in the west for roads, schools and community health centres; for fair taxes and laws that protect workers, parents, women, and children; as well as for the government to be held to the same standards that ordinary people are when they go over budget, or break promises or fail to do their jobs.

As an MP, I value being able to connect with residents. It has been an

Wishing you and your family a blessed Christmas and a prosperous New Year.

Moira DEEMING MP MEMBER FOR WESTERN METROPOLITAN REGION

Standing for Freedom, Fair Laws & Family

Suite 1 & 2, Level 2, 13-15 Lake St Caroline Springs VIC 3023 Phone: (03) 8363 0288 Email: moira.deeming@parliament.vic.gov.au

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Colour flush The Footscray Primary School bathrooms have been given a makeover by local artist Lady Mohawk, as part of the $20 million rebuild of the school.

Also known as Sally Walshe, Lady Mohawk said she was excited to splash the bathrooms with colour when school principal Jen Briggs approached her with the idea.

“I really wanted to create a space where the youth felt safe and inspired to visit,” she said. “Toilets are not just for the obvious, they are also where children go to for a bit of respite from the sometimes hectic nature of being at school.”

Lady Mohawk said work combines images of bright coloured animals, coupled with inspirational and meaningful sentences.

Intentionally created for the children’s enjoyment, Lady Mohawk said she was pleased to hear the positive feedback coming from the students.

“One girl said she didn’t like going to the old bathrooms before but now she loves it, she feels like it’s bringing the jungle in and surrounding her with nature. Children are my favourite critics, they don’t sugar coat anything, so I’m happy.”

Artist Lady Mohawk with the new mural at Footscray Primary School. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 373748_13

Paintback plan canned

By Jennifer Pittorino

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A planning permit for a paint recovery facility in West Footscray has been knocked back by Maribyrnong council. As reported by Star Weekly, there has been community concern about the planning application for 2 and 40-44 Graingers Road for a Paintback facility, with 112 objections made to the council, including a petition with 310 signatures.

Wattyl Paints proposed the use of the land for a paint recovery facility which would involve the crushing of paint cans at the site.

In its meeting on Tuesday, November 28, councillors moved an alternate motion for refusal on the grounds that the proposal does

not provide a use which is reasonable within the nearby community.

The council’s city development delegated committee had recommended that a permit be granted subject to conditions.

Councillor Bernadette Thomas’ alternative motion highlighted a number of issues with the proposal that would it unreasonably affect the safety and amenity of adjacent or sensitive land users.

She said noted the proposal would result in adverse amenity impacts on nearby properties in terms of noise, odour and emissions and that proposal would result in excessive traffic and associated amenity impact on the impacts on nearby roads, She also said the proposal has

failed to adequately demonstrate how it would have no unreasonably impact on the quality of the surrounding area.

Cr Thomas said while she believes Paintback is a good program she does not believe the West Footscray site is the right location.

“We’ve got houses... which are 30 metres away, we’ve heard very clearly from the surrounding community that this is not the appropriate spot to put this program and I do agree with them,” she said.

Cr Thomas said approving a site like this would not improve council’s initiative when declaring a health emergency.

Councillor Michael Clarke seconded the motion on the basis that any spare land must

be utilised in the housing crisis.

He suggested that there are more suitable locations for facilities like Paintback in neighbouring municipalities.

“Further west we have a remarkable industrial precinct, out in North Altona-Laverton... which is absolutely ripe to accommodate industries such as Paintback.

“There is opportunity for growth, an opportunity which would be welcomed by Brimbank council, Wyndham City council and Hobsons Bay council.”

A Paintback spokesperson said they are obviously disappointed by the decision and will now regroup to determine where it heads from here.

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Citynews M A R I B Y R N O N G

A MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR

OUT AND ABOUT

The arrival of Summer has brought a rush of vibrant energy to our City with a calendar full to the brim of free festive activities this month.

There are Santa visits, entertainers, crafts, and even an Augmented Reality (AR) dance with Mr. and Mrs. Claus at Santa’s Workshop in Metro West, Footscray.

On 8 December, join the festivities at Braybrook Community Hub for a family-friendly picnic featuring Santa, a free sausage sizzle, Wild Action Zoo wildlife show, Western Bulldogs activities, and the enchanting Manny the Magician.

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Mark your calendar for the 30th anniversary of Yarraville Carols on 16 December at Yarraville Gardens hosted by the acclaimed Footscray-Yarraville City Band and the Rotary clubs of Yarraville and West Footscray.

Delve into the magic of AR experiences curated by Council for the third consecutive year. Embark on a search and find adventure for six cheeky AR elves in Yarraville or indulge in a gingerbread hunt in West Footscray.

Head to Footscray Night Market to enjoy a delicious array of world cuisines, and fun family entertainment and music on 8 and 15 December at Railway Reserve in Footscray.

As 2023 draws to a close, revel in our New Year’s Eve celebration at Footscray Park, headlined by the iconic Aussie band, Regurgitator, and featuring a spectacular fireworks display on the Eastern Lawn. The skies will light up at 9:30pm.

Free shuttle buses will operate between Footscray Train Station and Footscray Park (Eastern Lawn).

You will find more details on upcoming events and activities on Council’s website.

City of Maribyrnong Councillors have been busy.

Finally, I would like to extend warm wishes for a joyous and safe festive season and wish you all a wonderful time as you bid farewell to 2023.

2. Mayor, Cr Cuc Lam and Belle, Princess on Skates, celebrating the return of Footscray Night Market at Railway Reserve, Footscray.

1. Mayor, Cr Cuc Lam joined Santa, The Grinch and Banjo the Elf at the official opening of Santa’s Workshop at Metro West in Footscray.

3. Mayor, Cr Cuc Lam with the honourable Sung Hak (Kimbo) Kim from the Australian General Services and Kotra (South Korea) representatives at the unveiling of new signs for Australia Light Foundation’s head office in Tottenham.

Mayor Cr Cuc Lam

Find me on Facebook ‘Mayor, Cr Cuc Lam’

6.30pm Council 6.30pm City Development Delegated Committee

These meetings will be held at the Braybrook Community Hub and livestreamed via Council’s YouTube channel. Community members can submit questions for public question time online on the day of the meeting.

Visit maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/meetings or phone 9688 0200 for more information.

6. Mayor, Cr Cuc Lam and Cr Bernadette Thomas officially launching the annual Young Writers Festival at Footscray Library.

From Monday 25 December to Friday 5 January, kerbside bin collections will take place one day later than usual.

There will be also be no bin deliveries and repairs on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day. Hard waste collections will not take place from Monday 25 December to Monday 1 January, and collections from Tuesday 2 January will be limited. Normal collections will resume from Monday 8 January.

For more information, visit: maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/Residents/Bins-and-recycling

Maribyrnong City Council Postal Address: PO Box 58, West Footscray, VIC 3012

5. Cr Sarah Carter, Mayor Cr Cuc Lam and Deputy Mayor Cr Michael Clarke at the Mayoral Election.

WASTE SERVICES OVER THE HOLIDAY PERIOD

DECEMBER COUNCIL MEETINGS Tue 12: Wed 13:

4. Mayor, Cr Cuc Lam, CEO, Celia Haddock, and Director of Infrastructure, Patrick Jess receiving a sneak peek of the life-sized model of the Next-Gen G-class trams.

P: (03) 9688 0200 F: (03) 9687 7793 email@maribyrnong.vic.gov.au www.maribyrnong.vic.gov.au

NRS: 133 677 or 1300 555 727 www.relayservice.com.au

TIS: 131 450

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2 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 6 December, 2023

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Petition pleads for road safety

By Jennifer Pittorino An “urgent” appeal for community safety measures in the Joseph Road precinct in Footscray has been issued by residents following the recent death of a woman.

On November 25, Frances Jeyann Ramirez was hit by two cars as she crossed the intersection of Hopkins Street and Hallenstein Street.

A GoFundMe has been created to help return Ms Ramirez’s body to the Philippines.

So far more than $44,000 has been raised.

Local resident Samantha Meredith has created a petition calling for action to improve the safety of the precinct.

“It is extraordinarily sad to see there has been a fatality in the precinct, at the very

crossing which has various safety issues that we have been pushing council to rectify,” said Ms Meredith.

The change.org petition, which has amassed more than 200 signatures,calls on Maribyrnong council to “support the residents of the Joseph Road Precinct Footscray“.

The petition asks council to implement pedestrian crosswalks, safe pathways, and speed limit enforcement.

The petition reads,“The safety concern in the Joseph Road Precinct directly impacts the hundreds of residents living in the area, with the potential to affect even more individuals in the future“.

“Currently, the lack of safe crossings and pathways poses a tangible risk to pedestrians

navigating Whitehall Street, Hallenstein Street, Warde Street, Joseph Road, Neilson Place, Wightman Street, and Hopkins Street.

Currently there are unsafe road conditions and insufficient pedestrian infrastructure.

“Immediate action is crucial to prevent further incidents or additional fatalities and build a safer community for both current and future residents.”

For more than 18 months, Ms Meredith said she and other members of the Maribyrnong community have been trying to communicate with council with no luck.

“Council keeps telling us it is going to take a long time to fix, sometimes they don’t even reply to our messages,” she said.

“A lot of residents have been asking for crossings and safety measures, nothing at all

has happened.

“If those people saw the streets they would be horrified at the situation and how it’s getting busier and more dangerous.

“We just don’t want to see another fatality, we’d like some safety things put into place.”

Ms Meredith said she hopes the council will be “transparent“ during this time of community concern.

“If they’re not going to do all the roads, okay then be transparent and tell us what safety measures you are going to put in place.

“The basic infrastructure in our neighbourhood, expected to be completed one to two years ago, still remains incomplete.”

Maribyrnong council was asked for comment.

Affordable housing policy

Year 4 students, Marlee, Ayden, Laetitia and Deeksha. (Damjan Janevski) 376746_02

Merry makeover for Dinjerra PS Braybrook’s Dinjerra Primary School is hosting its last event of the year, in one final effort to raise the funds required for a school makeover.

The family fiesta community market will be held on Friday, December 8 and is chance for the school community to buy from local businesses and school stalls.

Classroom teacher and event coordinator Marta Rodrigues said the purpose behind the community market is to raise money for the school.

“This year our goal was to reach $20,000 to redo all of the student play areas and upgrade the equipment,” she said.

“Currently we have raised about $14,000, so we are using the family fiesta event to try and raise the rest of it to that contribution.”

The family fiesta will be held on school grounds from 4-7pm, featuring more than 26 stalls from local businesses.

“We also have some classes of 11-year-olds who are running their stalls, so we are really trying to cater for everybody,” she said.

“They have come up with ideas to generate the fundraising, so we created the stalls through schoolwork, and through the curriculum, the final product will be running the stall at the event.”

Some of the kids stalls will include a

massage and nail polish stall, a carnival game, and a Christmas gift themed stall.

“All of the money from the stalls will go back to the students of the school,” she said.

Ms Rodrigues said for entertainment there will be demonstrations from dance schools, singers and artists, a yoga workshop and teacher band.

“The idea is to bring the school community together and branch out to the wider community to bring everyone together and have a relaxing and fun time while trying to raise money for the kids in the school.”

Hobsons Bay council aims to increase the supply of affordable housing in the municipality as part of an updated Affordable Housing Policy.

At its most recent meeting, the council adopted the policy which replaces the previous policy which was created in 2016.

The council made a number of key commitments including seeking an affordable housing contribution when land is rezoned for residential use in Hobsons Bay and lowering the threshold from 20 dwellings to 10 when proposed residential developments include affordable housing.

Under the policy, council will also advocate for a new state wide planning provision that would require an affordable housing contribution for all residential rezonings and residential developments.

A new commitment was added to advocate for improved access to support services for at-risk residents, and appropriate renewal of public housing estates in Hobsons Bay. Hobsons Bay mayor Matt Tyler said this policy will guide council as it tries to meet that growing demand.

“We are in the midst of a housing crisis that is many decades in the making, with an urgent need for more affordable housing for people on very low, low and moderate incomes in Hobsons Bay,” he said.

“We need more than 1400 additional affordable homes to meet local need.”

Tom Boyd is fostering footy friendships across the western suburbs Former Western Bulldogs premiership player Tom Boyd is joining forces with community and gender equality organisations in the west to improve inclusivity, respect and safety at local community footy clubs.

Mr Boyd will be speaking at the workshops as part of the Champions of the West, a program funded by Sport and Recreation Victoria’s preventing violence through sports grants program.

Champions of the West engages local community football club leaders and players to increase understanding of the links between

gender inequality and gender-based violence.

The program includes gender equality advocates GenWest, Women’s Health Grampians, the Western Bulldogs Community Foundation and the Western Region Football League.

GenWest chief executive Dale Wakefield said GenWest’s family violence team supports tens of thousands of victim survivors every year.

The Footscray-based organisation is a family violence support service.

“More than one woman a week has been killed as a result of family and gender-based

violence in Australia so far this year,” Ms Wakefield said.

“Gender inequality is the key driver of gender-based violence. It’s a serious public health issue.

“Programs like Champions of the West are crucial for preventing gender-based violence before it occurs.”

Mr Boyd said community sporting clubs are in many ways a cornerstone of communities.

He said they are uniquely placed to bring forth topics to focus on that will improve society.

“At the end of the day, we want our clubs to

be places that can unlock the potential of as many people as possible, and help them thrive,“ he said.

“These sessions are a great opportunity to bring people together to talk on things that are of grave importance, and bring it to the forefront of people’s minds leading into a great year of football.”

The sessions will be delivered in early 2024.

If you’re experiencing family violence and need support or want to know more about gender equality programs in the west, visit genwest.org.au.

Wednesday, 6 December, 2023 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 3

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Graduates ready to save lives Twenty new highly-skilled paramedics are ready to hit the road and start saving lives as part of the latest class of graduates to join the Ambulance Victoria workforce.

Ambulance Services Minister Mary-Anne Thomas attended the graduation ceremony at Ambulance Victoria’s new Capability Hub located at Victoria University’s Sunshine campus.

The hub is Australia’s first and only education and training hub for paramedicine.

In the latest class of graduates, 19 are now fully qualified Advanced Life Support (ALS) paramedics, having completed their university

studies and a year of supervised on-road placements – most graduate paramedics will be qualified in ALS, meaning they can provide sick and injured Victorians care, treatment and transport to hospital.

Another has completed further studies to become a Mobile Intensive Care Ambulance (MICA) paramedic allowing them to provide a higher level of care – performing more advanced medical procedures and making complex clinical decisions without medical consultation. This can include dealing with advanced airway management, complex head injuries, treating life-threatening chest

injuries and providing advanced care for cardiac conditions.

In total, 516 paramedics will be celebrating their graduation this year and next year, adding to the more than 1,300 paramedics who have joined the ranks since 2021.

Victoria’s paramedics have worked through unprecedented levels of demand, including 96,594 Code 1 cases alone in the July to September quarter of this year. Paramedics have also directed more than 40,000 triple-0 callers to the Victorian Virtual Emergency Department for more appropriate levels of care.

Ambulance Services Minister Mary-Anne Thomas said paramedics provide the highest quality of care and compassion in what can be people’s worst moments. “... it’s a pleasure to welcome these latest graduates to our paramedic workforce,” she said.

“We are seeing record levels of demand for ambulances in Victoria, which is why we are investing in our paramedic workforce, to ensure we can keep delivering the highest quality care for Victorians when and where they need it.”

Night market in December

Charlotte Gemmill aka ‘Eliott’. (Damjan Janevski) 376871_02

End of the line at Williamstown Always Live End of the Line will celebrate all things community with the next free, family-friendly festival on Saturday, December 9.

Supported by Metro Trains and Hobsons Bay council, the event will feature live performances from Alex Lahey, Eliott, Meghna and Philly and food and drinks will be provided by community vendors.

As the name suggests, the destination is at the end of the Williamstown train line at Commonwealth Reserve, Nelson Place, Williamstown.

Performing for the first time in the west, local artist Elliott said she is excited about her debut.

“This is my first festival of the season which is really nice, it is going to be a great lineup, a lovely day and plenty of good music and good vibes,” she said.

“I love this area so I am really keen to get the band together and drive over.”

Elliot’s band mates, drummer Soren and guitarist Johnson, will join her in performin indie, alternative pop music.

Elliot said she performed in Sydney several

months ago when someone from Always Live encouraged her to get involved.

“I am super excited to get on stage with so many other amazing acts.”

Metro executive director corporate affairs Clare Abbott said, “Travelling by train takes the stress out of travel. Sit back and relax and discover the fun that awaits you at the end of the line”.

The event is part of Always Live 2023, a 17-day state-wide celebration of contemporary live music supported by the state government through Visit Victoria.

The Footscray Night Market has returned to Railway Reserve this December, for three weeks of different themed evenings.

On Friday, December 1, Maribyrnong council kicked off the festivities with the Asian themed night.

Asian cuisine paired with cultural performances from lion dancing, Bollywood dancing, dynamic Japanese drumming performances and the Korean Dance Archery Crew kept visitors entertained throughout the night.

The next market will be held on Friday, December 8, Afro-Latin Night, a night which council describes as a chance to immerse yourself in beats, dance and flavours which will transport you into a world of lively energy and joyful vibes.

In addition to the food and music, there will be Interactive workshops for drumming and Afro-Latin dance.

Friday, December 15, will end the series of markets with a Christmas themed market to get locals into the festive spirit. Visitors will be able to see Princess on Skates, a Christmas circus show, Christmas food and more.

Each market night will also feature roving performers, free face painting, and a bouncy castle for the little ones, beginning at 5.00pm to 9.00pm.

Mayor Cuc Lam said, “The Footscray Night Market is not just an event, it is a community celebration bringing people together in the spirit of joy and connection.”

“As a cherished tradition in our summer line-up, the Footscray Night Market shines a spotlight on a diverse array of global cuisines every week while the live entertainment serves as a vibrant reflection of the rich melting pot of cultures that define the west.”

Sporting competition ‘fierce’ among new Australians The CALDplay Gala Day brought together 350 plus people of all ages from Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) backgrounds to compete in sporting competitions.

On Wednesday, November 22, The Western Bulldogs Community Foundation (WBCF) hosted the event in conjunction with WorkSafe Victoria and the MCC Foundation.

The competitions held across two locations in Footscray saw 200 primary, secondary and school staff from across the inner-west region of Melbourne at Henry Turner reserve, while 150 adults met at VU Sports Hall at Whitten Oval.

The WBCF partnered with Western United Football Club which coached and officiated a series of round-robin tournaments.

“I am very excited to be here to play football, I used to play a lot before I came to Australia, so it reminds me of home,” said Aisha, a participant in the junior tournament.

A WBCF spokesperson said the competition was fierce but fair across all levels throughout the day, especially in the inaugural walking-soccer tournament, allowing for the participation of people of all skill and fitness levels.

WBCF diversity and engagement

4 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 6 December, 2023

coordinator Quang Huynh said each school term, the CALDplay program teaches a different sport to recently arrived Australians.

“Sport is perfect for bridging gaps between language, culture and sporting codes,” Mr Huynh said.

“Building a life in a foreign culture is tough and potentially, isolating. By teaching new community members different sports, we equip them with a means of building connections in their local area.”

The senior tournament grand final ended with a nail-biting penalty shootout, with VU Nicholson crowned champions.

Winners from Victoria University. (Supplied)

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Council rejects fast track plan

By Jennifer Pittorino A planning permit for a nine storey health centre in Footscray has been knocked back by Maribyrnong council, after it was fast tracked by the state government.

Erica Heathcare Partners proposed to use land at 5-11 Geelong Road, Footscray for a multi storey healthcare centre, two levels of basement car parking and a new vehicle crossover.

At their meeting on Tuesday, November 28, councillors moved an alternate motion for refusal on the grounds that the building will not be suitable for the surrounding area.

Councillor Michael Clarke’s alternate motion highlighted a number of issues with the proposal, including the fact that the applicant had little communication with the council prior to the application.

In question time, Cr Clarke was shocked to learn that the applicant had only had one pre-planning discussion meeting with the applicant prior to submission.

“Are you telling this council that for a $164.5 million major development that we have only had one pre-planning discussion with the applicant prior to submission?” he confirmed with city development manager Ashley Minniti.

The applicant was able to go directly to the state government because of the cost of the development, which requires a minimum spend of $50 million.

“In terms of size, height and proportion, it is completely out of kilter with the surroundings,” Cr Clarke said “There has been ample opportunity to explore options here, but for some reason the applicant has thought better of that and decided to go directly to the state.”

Cr Clarke said while the municipality does need these types of services, the application goes against Maribyrnong’s values.

Councillor Simon Crawford said council is not surprised to see this development plan after the state government bypassed council in the planning process.

“We are going to continue to get developments which are completely incompatible with the communities where they’ve been proposed,” he said.

“If the applicant came to us we could have advised him very early on that this proposal was not going to work at this site, and they could have moved on and came up with a much more acceptable proposal, potentially elsewhere.”

Learning for working Laverton woman Tori Deluca has been enjoying her customised employment program at the Laverton Community Centre and is hoping it will land her a job in her dream field soon.

Living with a disability, Ms Deluca said she was devastated her local library, where she worked, shut down due to COVID. This had been her first job and she struggled to find a new one since, but remains optimistic with the new skills she learns everyday in the program.

The program is run by Ability Works Australia, which operates under a four-phase approach that unpacks the passions of people with disabilities and aims to match them with their dream employer.

“The course is all about finding what I’m passionate about and what I would like to do as a job,” she said.

“Then I can try to find places where I can work and have a job.”

Some of Ms Deluca’s passions include reading books, arts and crafts and crocheting.

“I would love to work in a library, whether it be a public library or school library,” she said.

“I liked working with the books and the kids there as well as helping people find the books that they were interested in.”

So far Ms Deluca said she has found this course to be beneficial and is excited to finish at the end of the year.

“I have become more confident talking to people that I don’t know, I wasn’t really talkative but now I think I have come out of my shell.”

Tori Deluca hopes to get a new job soon. (Damjan Janevski) 374191_05

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Seaworks morgue to be restored

By Jennifer Pittorino Seaworks Maritime Precinct has received a $150,000 grant to restore its old morgue which executive officer Glenn Jones hopes will encourage more visitors to the museum to enjoy Williamstown’s history.

Mr Jones said the 150-year-old morgue is in need of attention and repairs.

“We are going to get it as close as we can back to its original state to what it was when

it was moved here,” he said.

“There are original marks in the bluestone which were created by the men and prisoners who built it , we want to accentuate those things.

“We are also going to do some repairs and maintenance on the mortar, the door hangings and the roof to ensure there are no structural issues in the future.”

Mr Jones said he hopes the restoration will attract more attention to the site.

Currently it is opened once a year as part of

Open House Melbourne.

“Ghost tours are already run in there on Saturday nights but we want to open it up a lot more to our visitors to the Maritime museum,” he said.

“We are still looking at several options and potential ideas that we are playing around with.

“It is full of stories, it is a perfect little bluestone building and a lot of people are fascinated by it.”

Mr Jones and his team has been working

on getting a grant application for many years, leaving them eager to get started.

“We have attempted several grant applications with several bodies, we’ve been working on this for quite some time because it’s quite a significant building for Victoria.

“We just want to make sure it’s preserved properly, and as close as we can get it to its original state.”

Mr Jones said they hope the works will begin early next year to be complete by June.

Christmas spectacular

Language in Community Festival organisers Hoang Tran Nguyen, Jo Williams and Maribyrnong councillor Jorge Jorquera. (Damjan Janevski) 375650_01

Language festival finds Footscray For the first time ever, VietSpeak is bringing a Language in Community Festival to Footscray, for a day of multiculturalism education and fun.

Vietspeak director Hoang Tran Nguyen said the festival is about creating more opportunities to celebrate languages being spoken within communities in the west.

“We have recognised that in terms of a multicultural west, language isn’t really celebrated,” he said.

“It’s not centred or highlighted in the importance that it plays within multiculturalism, so that’s what this festival is trying to sort of highlight.”

Vietspeak is non-profit organisation based

in Maribyrnong, made up of a group of people who advocate for community-centred language education.

Mr Tran Nguyen said this festival will bring to life a showcase of cultural exchange, language diversity and community engagement.

“It will be a day of performances and activities dedicated to celebrating language diversity and supporting its continuity from generation to generation.”

The festival will feature a range of artists, as well as karaoke, kite and badge making workshops, stalls and other activities.

Some of the languages which will be sung and spoken include Vietnamese, Spanish, Greek, Nahuat, Hindi, Hazaragi and more.

“Our festival is a testament to our commitment to bridging cultures and empowering communities,” Mr Tran Nguyen said.

“We invite everyone to join us in celebrating the beauty of the Vietnamese language and culture.

“By bringing people together through the Vietnamese language, this event is set to create a bridge that transcends linguistic boundaries and fosters a deeper appreciation for the cultural mosaic that is Australia. “We can’t wait to see it come together.”

The festival will be held on Saturday, December 9, from 11am-3pm at Seelaf Square.

The West Footscray Neighbourhood House is excited to announce its first Christmas Spectacular event, and the last event of a big year.

Community programs officer Jodie Barrett said the whole community is invited to celebrate this Christmas with the West Footscray Neighbourhood House.

“We are going to have face painting, arts and crafts, Princess on Skates, a special visit from Santa who is coming along, the Victoria University loose parts and much more,” she said.

“We are expecting more than 80 people, families and friends to come join us, we just want to stress everyone is invited to come along and celebrate.”

The volunteers at the house have been working hard to make the event a reality, which Ms Barrett said will be a first for the group.

“This is going to be one of our biggest events yet, as this is the first time we are holding an event here at this neighbourhood house.”

“Our events are typically held at the Maidstone Neighbourhood house.

“We are so excited to celebrate with our community, made possible through the West Gate Neighbourhood Fund who are funding the event.”

The event will be held on Tuesday, December 12, from 11.30am-3.30pm at the West Footscray Neighbourhood House.

Scholarship opportunity opens for Maribyrnong women A new scholarship has been established to support women from the Maribyrnong community.

Women’s Environmental Leadership Australia (WELA) in partnership with Maribyrnong council have established the scholarship which will provide women with the opportunity to participate in the WELA National Leadership Program, the scholarship covers the full program cost and travel costs for one person.

WELA is a non-for-profit community of women who work to transform Australia’s response to the environmental and climate crisis.

Maribyrnong council said it recognises that addressing the climate emergency requires a collective, collaborative effort as a local and global community.

The scholarship will support the further development of leadership from within Maribyrnong’s community, building on the council’s Climate Emergency Community Advisory Group.

The group was founded in 2020, developing councils first ever Climate Emergency Strategy, using a deliberative democracy approach.

The council said the key objectives of the Climate Emergency Strategy include ceasing emissions of greenhouse gases by the council

6 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 6 December, 2023

and working with the Maribyrnong community to transition to zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2030.

Drawing down or removing existing and future greenhouse gas emissions from the atmosphere, and empowering and mobilising community action and building community resilience. The council said it will enable a better future for the planet, the city, the community and the children. Mayor Cuc Lam said the council recognises that addressing the climate emergency requires a collective and collaborative effort as a local and global community.

“By investing in the development of women

leaders, we are also aiming to create a more inclusive and equitable future for all,” she said.

“Through this scholarship, we are looking to support the further development of leadership from within Maribyrnong’s community, enabling a better future for our planet, our city, our community, and our children.

“Council is providing a member of our community the chance to participate in this well-established leadership course, and we are actively exploring additional programs and opportunities.”

Details: wela.org.au/programs/wela-nationalprogram/scholarships/

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Looking at next year’s budget

By Mayor Cuc Lam We recently had a conversation with our community to understand your priorities to help us prepare for the Annual Budget 2024/25.

While our Annual Budget ensures council delivers important services and facilities to the community in a financially-sustainable way to meet the needs of our residents, preparing it can be something of a balancing act.

We deliver more than 57 services to the community and maintain over $1 billion of assets.

As part of our budgeting process, we must consider all the demands for services and how they will be paid for, while meeting legal and policy requirements, along with ratepayer expectations.

As part of this initial engagement, the community was able to use a ‘fund it’ tool on the digital engagement platform Your City Your Voice which allowed users to allocate points to identify the five service areas most important to them.

Residents were also able to provide more detailed feedback by way of a formal feedback form.

From the 182 contributions we understand open space, sustainability and the environment, cycling and pedestrian infrastructure, city amenity and safety, and health, wellbeing and recreation were some of the most important services you want us to consider when allocating funding in the 2024/25 Budget.

Gathering your thoughts early in the budget

Briefs Fraudulent cash investigation Police are investigating a series of fraudulent cash withdrawals in Melbourne’s west, totalling more than $20,000. Police were told a woman attended a bank on Melton Highway, Taylors Lakes about 3.30pm on November 22. Investigators believe she produced fraudulent documents and identification to withdraw $2200 in cash. The woman attended the same bank about 9.30am on November 23 and withdrew $12,000.

Later in the afternoon, the woman attended a bank on Douglas Parade, Williamstown just after 4pm. She produced the documents again and withdrew $6,900. The woman withdrew a total of $21,100 over two days. The woman is described as Caucasian, medium build, with shoulder-length brown hair.

Details to: Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or at www.crimestoppersvic. com.au.

Solar panel workshop Hobsons Bay council is hosting a free webinar to teach attendees more about solar, and get information on installation rebates and incentives to help combat rising energy prices. The online webinar will run on Saturday, December 9, from 10am-11:30am.

Register at: https://bit.ly/3QUYajl Mayor Cuc Lam.

development process, means we can better reflect community needs in the final Budget, allowing us to achieve better outcomes for the community as a whole. This feedback will help inform the development of the Proposed Budget, which will be shared back with the community in April 2024 for comment.

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Heartwarming Christmas ideas for young and old Celebrating Christmas with grandchildren is a special and heartwarming experience for grandparents. It’s a time to create lasting memories, share traditions, and foster a strong bond between generations. Here are some special ways grandparents can celebrate Christmas with their grandchildren: Storytelling and Traditions: Share family stories and traditions with your grandchildren. Whether it’s recounting your own childhood Christmas memories, explaining the significance of family rituals, or passing down cherished customs, storytelling creates a sense of continuity and connection.

Baking and Cooking Together: Get into the kitchen and bake some holiday treats together. Whether it’s making cookies, gingerbread houses, or a special family recipe, the process of cooking together fosters collaboration, creativity, and the joy of sharing delicious treats.

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Grant for community bike hub

By Jennifer Pittorino The Community Bike Hub has received a $126,000 grant which will be used to upgrade its Moreland Street site through community events and activities.

General manager Silas Bennett said this grant will provide much needed funds via the grant which is from the West Gate Neighbourhood Fund.

He said the infrastructure plans for the retail site will involve expanding and outfitting an

area for community education.

“Receiving funds is usually quite a battle so this opportunity to build some infrastructure is quite exciting,” he said.

“Currently, we run education for the year 9 students at Footscray High School, but we want to be able to offer that to the wider community because there is a call out for it.

“With this funding we will be able to do that, as well as outfitting a portable trailer so we can do down to areas like the Maribyrnong trail and do some pop-up bike maintenance.”

Mr Bennett also hopes the grant will allow the bike hub to begin offering classes to help the community and encourage cycling.

“We have low rates of cycling in this municipality, so we have set targets with how many people we hope to have impacted within the first year,” he said.

“After that we will still have the trailer and the upgrades so we can continue to help out the community with the grant.”

Mr Bennett said the project will be delivered within the next 18 months but the benefits

will continue for long after.

This is the first time the Community Bike Hub has received a grant of this size which will finally allow them to build the infrastructure they have been hoping for.

“We received much smaller grants so this is a large one for us,” he said.

“Obviously the grant writing itself is a long process, but we are very excited to kind of see the first shovel hit the ground and be able to deliver it.”

Metro tunnel testing time

Gaye Pereira-Jackson with the new mural. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 373543_02

Colourful mural inspired by nature Six talented ladies from the Hobsons Bay Art Society have painted a mural at the newly renovated Seabrook Community Centre.

Hobsons Bay council bookings officer Paula Morgan reached out to the arts society to revamp the centre.

“Our community centre was given a face lift earlier this year, we wanted to do something to make it more comforting and inviting,” she said.

“We really wanted to make the place friendly with the murals, which is what they did.”

Artist Gaye Pereira-Jackson was allocated

the task and wanted to paint a scene which represented the Seabrook area.

“I thought that it would be nice to have the blue sky, water and red rocks, as well as some native plants and birds,” she said.

Five murals were painted across panels, four of which are part of a larger sequence.

“Because we decided on five murals I thought it would be nice to share the job with five other people,“ Pereira-Jackson said.

“So I asked around and came to find that there were these women who were very interested in painting, so I allocated each of

them a panel.”

The other five painters were Marie Long, Geraldine Phelan, Sonia Trainor, Sally Bilboa and Sue Groen.

Pereira-Jackson describes the sequence as being covered in Australian flora and fauna, all of which the panels are connected and linked together by branches of a tree.

She said the ladies worked collaboratively together every Wednesday for four sessions at the Louis Joel Arts and Community Centre to bring the murals to life.

Jennifer Pittorino

The Metro Tunnel project is entering a new phase of testing, with the tunnel’s systems being put through its paces.

The latest phase will test how the station, train and data systems work together and communicate with each other, including platform screen doors, high-capacity signalling, passenger information displays, communications, and fire response systems.

The project will connect the busy Sunbury line with stops in Sunshine and Footscray via the new tunnel, creating an end-to-end rail line from the north-west to the south-east, freeing up space in the City Loop to run more trains across the city and suburbs.

Repeated testing and continuous software updates have been used to finetune the exact stopping position of the trains as they line up with the stations’ Victorian-first platform screen doors.

Testing inside the new tunnels and stations will stretch into mid-2024, before trial operations start, running practice timetabled services with drivers and station staff in a dress rehearsal to ensure services will work for passengers.

Premier Jacinta Allan said the project is entering a ‘critical’ phase of testing.

“This will transform Melbourne’s train network, delivering more trains to and from the suburbs and slashing travel times by up to 50 minutes every day,” she said.

Outstanding early educator shines at national awards For nine years Sasha Hill-Head has loved her career working with children, now she has been recognised for her outstanding efforts.

The Yarraville local has won a national award for ‘Outstanding Practice’ in early learning at G8 Education’s The National Standout Education awards.

For two years Ms Hill-Head worked as an early childhood educator at the Learning Sanctuary in Yarraville, which she said she has loved every minute.

“I am feeling amazing, it is such an honour to win that award,” she said.

“It’s not only a reflection of myself and my practice but also my team which is amazing.

“It is really lovely to be recognised for

everything I am doing and learning.”

As cliched as Ms Hill-Head said it sounds, her favourite thing about her job is the children.

“I don’t think anyone who chooses to be an educator is in it for any other reason, other than the fact they really love being with children and learning from them everyday.”

Ms Hill-Head was among six educators and teachers recognised in the awards.

About Ms Hill-Head, the judging panel said, “Ms Hill-Head shows clear passion and dedication to her role, leading and mentoring her fellow peers to create rich experiences and environments for children to learn, develop and play.

12 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 6 December, 2023

“Ms Hill-Head supports her team in setting up engaging environments across the centre, showing clear pedagogical decision-making and understanding of all ages and development needs.”

Ms Hill-Head believes her success stems from her passion for education.

“I really enjoy the environment and creating warm and inviting and creative environments for the children,” she said.

“I also really enjoy documenting the learning and using my personal passion for creativity within that.”

The winners received a $1000 gift card and a $500 budget towards the professional development of their choice.

Sasha Hill-Head. (Supplied)

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

NEWS

Quake shaped career Ten-year-old Abdul Khan couldn’t have known while watching RAAF cargo planes deliver assistance to survivors of the 2005 Pakistan earthquake, that 15 years later he’d be doing the same thing.

Young Fight Lieutenant Khan and family were among those affected by the earthquake, which killed at least 80,000 people and displaced millions more when it hit the mountainous regions of northern Pakistan.

“Our houses were made of mud so when the water came through everything just collapsed and we had to start again,” remembered Flight Lieutenant Khan of when the earthquake hit.

Another of his memories is the international response to the disaster, including from Australians.

“I remember seeing then Prime Minister John

Howard on the news,“ he recalls. “I had no idea what he was saying but the Urdu translation told me about how people from all over the world had come to help our community.”

It was a formative experience for the engineer currently posted to Chief Information Officer Group at RAAF Base Williams in Laverton.

When his family later immigrated to Melbourne, Khan dreamt of joining the Air Force before he knew the English word for plane. However a high school teacher set him on a different course.

“He told me it would be hard to join the military as a Muslim and that put me off a career in defence,” Flight Lieutenant Khan said.

Instead, he enrolled in electrical engineering at RMIT, but seeing an air force ad during his second year rekindled his dream.

He enrolled in officer training school in Victoria where any fears about acceptance were soon put to rest.

“During the field exercise, while I slept a mate kindly prepared warm water for me as they knew I would need to wash before prayer,” Flight Lieutenant Khan said.

“This is when I knew joining defence was the right decision for me.”

Now he’s helping other Muslim Australians join defence, recently speaking at a recruitment event at the Melbourne Grand Mosque where he related his experiences.

“Seeing a Muslim speaking about defence creates a positive image,” he said. “I want to help the next generation and change perceptions of defence in the Muslim community and beyond.”

Air force officer, Pakistani immigrant and keen cricketer, Flight Lieutenant Abdul Khan, is based at RAAF. (CPL Jacob Joseph)

Festive drive collects food

The St Albans Lunar Festival, 2022. (Supplied)

Enjoy hot summer entertainment December is here and with it comes the holiday season and a plethora of activities and events for people to get involved in across Melbourne’s west this December and January.

Western Melbourne Tourism executive officer Richard Ponsford said as summer warms up, Melbourne’s west is coming to life with a fantastic array of events and experiences.

“There is a great energy across the west,” he said. “The region is set to offer a relaxed and enjoyable summer holiday season for everyone. Outdoor cinema, bars are buzzing or simply enjoy the beautiful twilight evenings along the rivers, or at the beach.

“The west really kicks into life in early 2024

with the Lunar New Year events, particularly the St Albans Lunar Year festival in early January.“ ALWAYS LIVE and Metro Trains kick off the action with End of The Line in Williamstown on December 9. The free family-friendly festival brings together the best local talent together with performances from Alex Lahey, Eliott, Meghna and Philly at Commonwealth Reserve.

Also on the 9th is Wyndham’s Carols

By Candlelight at the beautiful Werribee Mansion, and later on Christmas Eve is the Eynesbury December Christmas Market.

Footscray’s Night Market is on Fridays throughout December, and then you can

bring in the new year at Footscray Park with carnival rides and stellar performances including Regurgitator.

Moving into January, SO FRENCHY SO CHIC hits Werribee Park on the 14th. The event connects France to Australia through French contemporary music, gastronomy, fashion and lots of Champagne.

On January 21 Melbourne’s largest and longest-running Lunar New Year Festival, is back to usher in the Year of the Dragon. The St Albans Lunar Festival, which began in 1998, has grown into a vibrant celebration of cultural diversity, attracting over 80,000 guests and showcasing the rich multicultural tapestry of the St Albans community.

A festive food drive by the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre (ASRC) is set to make some people’s Christmas a bit cheerier.

The ASRC hosted the food drive on Sunday, December 3, to gather as many food donations as they can before the busy Christmas period.

Community food services operations coordinator Vincent Belmonte said the day was a huge success.

“It was so great, we had a really good response from the community,” he said.

Belmonte said the 35 volunteers working at the centre were visited by 100 car loads full of people as well as 45 people on foot.

“It was fantastic and very positive compared to last year, there were so many families who helped us.”

The team has not counted the final amount of donations, but they did receive a variety of donations from the list of 20 items they asked for.

“We received more than 1000 tins of tuna, 450 litres of milk and 150 kg of basmati rice, enough to definitely help us feed people for the next month.

“We know that January is usually really low in terms of donations so this will help us put out extra food at this time of year.”

Although the food drive is over for the year, Mr Belmonte hopes that those who are able will continue to donate over the next few months.

“People can check on our website to see which food we need, it would be great if people could keep donating.”

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Taking action for a safer future As this year’s 16 Days of Activism wraps up, Zoe Moffatt dives into the world of footy and the work being done in the outer north-west to improve gender equality and inclusivity.

O

n Friday, November 24, thousands of Victorians swarmed the steps of parliament house.

Bathed in sunshine, a sea of orange swelled for the annual Walk Against Family Violence, the kick start to the 16 Days of Activism campaign.

The marchers were united by disturbing Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) data that revealed more than one in four Australian women experienced partner violence or abuse.

The statistics released on November 22, found that one in six women experienced partner violence and partner economic abuse, while almost one in four experienced partner emotional abuse.

For filmmaker and Castlemaine footy player Mitch Nivalis, these figures aren’t a surprise.

“It’s far more widespread than I think most people realise,” Mitch said.

“I feel like potentially [those] statistics are underreported, because you know, those are the stats that have been reported and I think there’s far more challenging and horrible things going on behind closed doors.”

Data from Australia’s National Research Organisation for Women’s Safety found that most Australians do not believe violence against women is a problem in their communities.

The analysis found that while 91 per cent of Australians recognise violence against women as an issue at a national level, only 47 per cent admit it could be a problem in their own suburb or town.

These telling statistics highlight the need for further localised education, and for Mitch, this is the place where local footy clubs can step up and lead on inclusion and activism.

“Sporting clubs are connected in so many different ways to a large part of our community,” Mitch said.

“Most people will have kids that will be involved in sporting clubs, adults are involved in sporting clubs, and then all those networks, friends and family that those people are connected to.

“So if we’re having these kinds of conversations within sporting clubs, and we’re creating cultures in sporting clubs that are inclusive and equitable for everyone, then that automatically starts to seep out into the broader community and change happens quicker.”

Throughout the 16 Days of Activism, Mitch’s short film about the Mount Alexander Falcons was streamed at locations in Melbourne’s outer north-west.

The film, Equal the Contest, follows the formation in 2021 of the Castlemaine based football club for women and gender diverse people and their fight for inclusion in the AFL. Despite fulfilling all the necessary conditions to form a new club, the Falcons initially had their application rejected by AFL Central Victoria.

The club members then embarked on a campaign to gather support from the community to overturn the decision, challenging age-old sporting traditions and joining the wider movement for gender equality.

Speaking about gender equality in sport and rates of violence against women and children, Mitch said while things are changing, they need to happen faster.

“Sometimes I think we’re moving way too slow and sometimes I feel like we’ve got such momentum that things are changing quickly,” they said.

“When I was a kid there wasn’t even such a thing of girls playing soccer, and now we’ve just had the phenomenon of the Women’s World Cup. “That’s my lifetime, things are changing, but the rates of violence against women and children are still at epic proportions. In that sense, we’ve got so much work to do still.”

For growth areas in Melbourne’s outer north-west, like Melton and Wyndham, high levels of family violence is an ongoing issue.

Equal the Contest film creator and Falcons player Mitch Nivalis.

(Supplied)

‘‘

So if ... we’re creating cultures in sporting clubs that are inclusive and equitable for everyone, then that automatically starts to seep out into the broader community

’’

The walk kick started to the 16 Days of Activism campaign. (Respect Victoria)

- Mitch Nivalis

In 2020, the Melton LGA had the highest rate of family violence per 10,000 people in metropolitan Melbourne, and in 2020 Wyndham ranked fourth highest in Victoria for reported incidents of family violence.

Family violence support service GenWest is pushing change with a series of community footy club workshops on how clubs can be inclusive, the importance of gender equality and its link to preventing gender-based violence.

Former Western Bulldogs premiership player Tom Boyd will be speaking at the workshops as part of the Champions of the West program.

Tom said community sporting clubs are in many ways a cornerstone of communities.

“With that, they are uniquely placed to bring forth topics to focus on that will improve our society,” he said.

“At the end of the day, we want our clubs to be places that can unlock the potential of as many people as possible, and help them thrive.

“These sessions are a great opportunity to bring people together to talk on things that are of grave importance, and bring it to the forefront of people’s minds leading into a great

14 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 6 December, 2023

year of football.”

The program engages local community football club leaders and players to increase understanding of the links between gender inequality and gender-based violence.

The sessions will be delivered early next year, and clubs in the Western Region Football League and Sports Central can sign up for a free session during 16 Days of Activism.

Interested clubs should email GenWest for more information.

Respect Victoria chair Dr Kate Fitz-Gibbon said while family violence and violence against women is a national crisis, it is preventable.

“We are calling on all Australians to take action to prevent violence and to learn what drives it,” Dr Fitz-Gibbon said.

“Everyone has a role to play if we are ever going to see safe relationships, safe workplaces and a safe community for all women.

“Violence is happening in every town and suburb in the country, and we all have an opportunity to be part of the solution. We’re better than this, and we must all strive for a safer future for women and girls.”

Looking towards the future, Mitch said they

Former Western Bulldogs premiership player Tom Boyd will speak at Champions of the West program workshops. (Supplied)

are hopeful things will continue to change, but people need to continue pushing these important conversations.

“There’s so much happening and it’s a bit of a numbers game. We need more women and gender diverse people in key roles in organisations.

“We need more learning and education happening particularly for young boys in school. There’s so many conversations that we need to keep pushing forward and progressing in order to make that change.

“But I definitely feel hopeful, I think we’re moving in the right direction.”

Details: comms@genwest.org.au

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

COMMENT

Aromatic plants spark interest In a horticultural twist at Werribee Open Range Zoo, aromatic plants have become the catalysts for captivating sensory and cognitive challenges for the animals.

African and Australian natives, including giraffe, camels, wallabies and servals, are receiving a selection of herbaceous plants from zookeepers to spark their curiosity and an array of intriguing natural behaviours.

The design and establishment of a new purpose-built herb garden at the zoo, which has the capacity to grow up to 200 fragrant and scented plants, is providing a self-sustainable source of flora to engage with the animals’ sight, smell and touch.

Zoos Victoria animal behaviour specialist Sue Jaensch said zookeepers are witnessing a range of behaviours that are helping determine animal preferences.

“Fresh herbs have amazing fragrances and flavours,” she said. “But each individual animal and species response and preference can vary. Our goal is to provide experiences that are beneficial for each animal, so understanding individual preferences helps to inform how we can specially tailor these experiences.

“Just like in the wild, these experiences offer the animals at the zoo the opportunity to encounter a diverse range of herbs that they can choose to eat, anoint themselves with or simply enjoy the smell of.”

The camels and giraffes were given a herb pesto, a mix of intensely scented herbs that

Serval at Werribee Open Range Zoo rubs herself in catnip. (Zoo Victoria)

invoked two very different but equally curious behaviours.

One of the giraffes spent plenty of time investigating his herbs, approaching, leaning down, and balancing on three legs as he extended his tongue to taste. This was followed with copious amounts of chewing and tongue flicking.

Meantime, a taste from the camels was met with plenty of head shaking as their prehensile, flexible lips flung around.

A serval was provided with catnip, rolling around to douse itself in the mint-like pungent scent. The wallabies chose to consume their rosemary and mint. One of the rhinos chose not to engage with his assortment of fresh herbs.

Zoo horticulture manager Craig Shalders said the herb garden is planted with thoughtfully selected herbs to meet the animals’ specific needs and has been sustainably designed.

“Raised garden beds provide the prime advantage of harvesting,” he said. “We’re also utilising water from existing tanks as a water source, while a careful selection of plant species means we have availability all year.”

Ms Jaensch said planting herbs at home can have some great benefits.

“Planting umbels, a family of herbs including parsley, coriander and dill, is a fantastic way to encourage to attract pollinators and insects into your backyard.”

SUMMER 2023

Parents wake up

To sleep support Why Hamish Blake is

Our top dad

12654298-RR49-23

Wednesday, 6 December, 2023 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 15

COMMUNITY STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

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

Christmas On The Lawn Christchurch Newport is hosting its Christmas event for all to enjoy. Come along and soak up some Christmas cheer with live music, Christmas choir, barista coffee, fruit mince pies, gingerbread, sausage sizzle, kids crafts, on Saturday, 16 December, 9.30am-1pm, at Christ Church, 61 Mason St, Newport ■ steve@christchurchnewport.org.au

Carols By The Bay Altona Sports Club are Hosting Carols By The Bay on December 14, 2023 starting at 7pm. The free event will be headed up with the great Australian musician Mr Rick Charle along with the Glee West Choirand the Ringwood Pipe Band. There will also be a fireworks display at 9.30pm. 11 Altona Road, Altona.

■ (03) 9398 2283.

Musicians welcome Hobsons Bay City Band is seeking musicians to join the community band.

Rehearsals are held under the directorship of Wayne Bowden OAM every Monday evening from 7.30pm at the Newport Lakes Primary School, Elizabeth Street, Newport.

Visitors and interested musicians any age most welcome.

■ Hannah Prouse at hbcityband@gmail.com or www.hbcb.org.au

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Norm Morris in a B24 Liberator bomber restoration hanger in Werribee. (Damjan Janevski) 375758_01

Free WONDER-full Nature Walks for 55s+ Join Dr Liz Cyarto for Forest Therapy walks. Have fun, reduce your stress and boost your vitality. Guided walks offered at Williamstown Botanic Gardens on December 10. Limited spots. Registration is open for spring and summer.

■ thehealthysenior@gmail.com

Boxing Maribyrnong Boxing Club has reopened.

New and former members of the Maribyrnong Community Youth Club are welcome to attend training sessions on Monday 6pm-8pm, Thursday 6.45-7.45pm and Sunday, 10-11am. Boxing for fitness classes, beginners, youth, adults and also competition available. The club premises are located under the Grandstand on Maribyrnong Reserve, on the corner of Hortense Street and Middle Road, Maribyrnong ■ nugara.david@hotmail.com or 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. The group meets on Thursday evenings during school term from 7-9 pm at Laverton P12 College, Gate 1-91 Bladin Street, Laverton.

■ Sue 0418 386 147

Walking Football (soccer) This is a social activity for fun and a bit of exercise, no experience necessary for people aged 50 and older. Any fitness level is welcome with no running allowed.

This is a social activity for fun and a bit of exercise, no experience necessary.. This is a free activity is each Wednesday between noon-1pm indoors at the Sports Centre, Andrew Park Drive, Altona.

■ Mike 0423-291-708.

Hatha yoga online Practice yoga in the comfort of your own home with Sue via Zoom. A general Hatha Yoga style practice suitable for all levels, concluding with deep relaxation between 6-7pm weekly on Mondays until December 4. Cost is $60 per a 10 week term or $6

per session.

Small steps walking group Are you looking for a fun and social way to stay active? Join the Braybrook Community Hub walking group. Get some fresh air, make new friends and enjoy the benefits of walking. Or come for social connections, bikkies and a cuppa every Wednesday between 10.30 -11.30am.

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.

Craft Looking for a group that can help inspire, teach and support you in your craft endeavours? Bring along whatever you are working on and enjoy a morning with like-minded people at the Braybrook Community Hub, between 10am-noon weekly on Thursdays until December 7.

Cost is $30 and $15 for concession.

Whatever your learning interests and needs, Outlets Newport Community 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

Meditation for stress management

Carers’ walk and talk

Meditate under the guidance of an experienced teacher through visualisation, breath and movement. A form of mindful planning combining the psychological process of visualising, preparing for the future, and assigning action steps including milestones and to review your progress will be held at the Braybrook Community Hub between 10-11am on Fridays. This class will also be live streamed for you to join from home. Cost is $60 per a 10 week term or $6 per session.

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

Computers, crafts, conversation

Book sale Friends of Altona Library hold a monthly book sale on the first Tuesday, Friday and Saturday of each month at the rear of Altona Library 123 Queen Street Altona. access via Coles car park, from 10am-1pm.

■ https://libraries.hobsonsbay.

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

16 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 6 December, 2023

Seeking stories 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

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

Computer classes for beginners Computer classes are run on a wide range of times and days, at both Altona North Community Centre, and Joan Kirner House in Williamstown.

■ Lynne, 9397 6168

Palliative volunteers needed Mercy Palliative Care is looking for volunteers to visit palliative care patients in their homes to offer social support.

■ 9313 5700 or MPCVolunteerCoordinators@mercy.com.au

Willin Wimmin choir Williamstown-based women’s community choir Willin Wimmin is currently welcoming new members. The group meets each Wednesday evening in school terms in the Church of Christ hall at the corner of John Street and Douglas Parade, Williamstown from 7.30pm-9.30pm. There are no auditions and you don’t need to be able to read music.

■ willin.wimmin@gmail.com

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

1

6

8 5 2

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

8

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

QUICK CROSSWORD

Present to someone new (9) Meet requirements (7) Land measure (imp) (4) Independent official who investigates citizens’ complaints (9) Wandering from place to place (7) Destructive insects (7) Surgery chamber (7) Break into pieces (7) Motor (6) Untruths (4) Subject (5)

7 8 9 15

ACROSS Church officer (6) Wages (8) Poem (5) Criticism (7) Impeached US president (5) Teachers (9) Darling (8) Excellent (6) Astronomical cloud (6) Female server (8) With healing properties (9) In addition (5) Launched weapon (7) Luxury (5) Box (8) Finish (6)

1 4 10 11 12 13 14 16 17 19 23 25 27 28 29 30

No. 162

17 18 20 21 22 24 26

DOWN Vast Sudanese grasslands (7) Copy (5) South-West Pacific region (7) Metal body protection (6) Mean (7)

1 2 3 5 6

DECODER

No. 162

hard

21

22

23

24

25

26

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once.

No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural words ending in “s”.

O

Today’s Aim: 19 words: Good 29 words: Very good

U

E

A

B

H T

S

bash, bath, bathe, bathes, bathos, baths, BOATHOUSE, booth, bosh, both, bush, ethos, haste, hate, hates, haute, heat, heats, hoes, hoot, hoots, hose, host, house, HOUSEBOAT, oath, shea, shoat, shoe, shoo, shoot, shot, shout, shut, sooth, soothe, south, those, thou, thus

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

No. 162

6 7 $ 0 3

ALTER ALTOS APART ARENA AROSE ATONE CANAL CRANE CRATE DOILY EATEN EDGES FRETS GENIE HALER ISSUE LODGE MANIA NESTS OASES OVERS PARSE PEDAL

4 LETTERS APED EELS EVIL EYES HIRE HOUR PAID POND RANT RENT SARI SEWS SPAS TOES TUNE 5 LETTERS ABATE ACORN ALARM

LLAMAS PREFAB TOMCAT

PEEPS PURER RADIO RASPS REAPS RENEW SCARF SEATS SELLS SHAFT SLEDS SLEET SNIDE SNOOP STAMP TABOO THERE TWIRL USUAL VIRAL

TATTOOED TRESTLES

7 LETTERS ABSTAIN COOPING DESPAIR OUTSIDE RUNNIER SECULAR

11 LETTERS NECESSITATE PESTILENCES

8 LETTERS INTERNET SHRAPNEL

6 LETTERS ELECTS

08-12-23

No. 162 Insert the missing letters to make 10 words – five reading across the grid and five reading down.

NOTE: more than one solution may be possible

O N G S O R N E

B

T A F F A D L E B O U T

S L A

S

B

9-LETTER WORD

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QUICK QUIZ

1

A person suffering from friggatriskaidekaphobia is afraid of what?

2

Which award-winning singer was born Natalie McIntyre?

3

In the Star Wars universe, what ‘forest moon’ is home to the Ewoks?

4

Vesak is a holy day observed in which religion?

5

The Round House in Western Australia was originally built for what purpose?

6

Lead singer of Foo Fighters, Dave Grohl (pictured), was once the drummer for which iconic ‘90s band?

7

What is the name of the largest island of Fiji?

8

In which month of 1666 did the Great Fire of London occur?

9

Which great classical composer died of a suspected stroke in 1750 in Leipzig, Germany?

10 Sadie Madison and Sunny Madeline are the children of which US actor and comedian?

ANSWERS: 1. Friday the 13th 2. Macy Gray 3. Endor 4. Buddhism 5. A prison 6. Nirvana 7. Viti Levu 8. September 9. Johann Sebastian Bach 10. Adam Sandler

No. 162

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SUDOKU

Wednesday, 6 December, 2023 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 17

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18 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 6 December, 2023

SPORTS QUIZ 4. Which NFL team won the 2016 Super Bowl?

1. The father of which NBA star has landed a fulltime coaching job at the Illawarra Hawks?

5. Five low-ranking tennis players have been banned by the ITA for committing what offence?

2. Nick Kyrgios called which tennis star ‘superhuman’ after winning the ATP Finals for the seventh time?

6. Who is highest-paid female athlete in the world?

3. At their recent show in Perth, Coldplay made a heartfelt tribute to which late sports star?

7. Which WBBL player hit a six with a broken bat in a recent match at North Sydney Oval?

8. How many times has Stephanie Gilmore won the Women’s WSL World Tour Championship?

9. Mckenna Grace played the younger version of which figure skater in a 2017 film?

10. How many times have the Socceroos placed in the top four at a FIFA World Cup? 11. Which two countries are co-hosting the 2024 Men’s T20 World Cup? 12. How many Australians have won the Tour de France?

Becky Lynch

13. Who was captain of the Australian men’s ODI cricket team before Pat Cummins?

Stephanie Gilmore

14. Chicago has how many MLB teams?

15. And what are their names?

16. Who scored the only goal in Australia’s game against Denmark in the group stage of 2022’s FIFA World Cup? 17. How many players are in a curling team?

28. Which team did Brisbane Blaze defeat to win the final of the 2023 Women’s Hockey One competition?

23. Shamera Sterling, winner of the 2023 Super Netball player of the year award, plays for which Super Netball club?

18. Which team won the Stanley Cup in 2022?

19. WWE wrestler Becky Lynch is married to which fellow wrestler?

29. Monique Conti, winner of the 2023 AFLW best and fairest award, plays for which club?

24. Which Perth-born Australian golf professional won the 2023 Australian PGA Championship?

20. In what year did the Carlton Football Club last win an AFL premiership?

30. The 2023 film Next Goal Wins is based on a documentary focused on which national soccer team?

25. Which two teams qualified to play off in the 2023 AFLW Grand Final?

21. Courtney Bruce, winner of the 2023 Liz Ellis Diamond award, plays for which Super Netball club?

26. The 2023 LA Bowl college football game is sponsored by which former NFL star?

22. Which national men’'s tennis team defeated Australia in the final of the 2023 Davis Cup?

27. Which team did Brisbane Blaze defeat to win the final of the 2023 Men’s Hockey One competition?

0812

1. Jayson Tatum 2. Novak Djokovic 3. Shane Warne 4. The Broncos 5. Match-fixing 6. Serena Williams 7. Grace Harris 8. Eight 9. Tonya Harding 10. None 11. West Indies and America 12. One (Cadel Evans) 13. Aaron Finch 14. Two 15. The Cubs and the White Sox 16. Mathew Leckie 17. Four 18. Colorado Avalanche 19. Seth Rollins 20. 1995 21. West Coast Fever 22. Italy 23. Adelaide Thunderbirds 24. Min Woo Lee 25. Brisbane Lion and North Melbourne 26. Rob Gronkowski 27. NSW Pride 28. Canberra Chill 29. Richmond 30. American Samoa

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MOTOR STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

X-Trail roots in ‘enemy territory’

By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring In one of the most competitive segments of the automobile industry one company has called on rivals for one of its most important products. Nissan has put together its fourth generation X-Trail with parts from the Mitsubishi Outlander on a Nissan-Renault Alliance CMC-F platform.

Weighing in with six petrol-powered variants in front or all-wheel drive – there are two e-Power hybrid electric vehicles on the horizon – the bitser takes on the task of making up ground on well-established rivals such as Toyota RAV4, Mazda CX-5, Kia Sportage, Hyundai Tucson.

The new X-Trail comes with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine in front-wheel drive, or optional Intelligent 4x4, with all four grades – ST, ST-L, Ti and Ti-L, with a mix of five or seven seats – fitted with an Xtronic Continuously Variable Transmission.

Well-equipped from the entry-level ST front-wheel drive at $36,750, plus on-road costs, to the range-leading Ti-L AWD, $52,990, on test was the ST-L AWD 7 seat priced at $46,290.

All X-Trails are covered by Nissan’s five-year unlimited kilometre warranty and roadside assistance over the same period. Service packages are available.

Styling Nissan says the new CMF-C platform, from its alliance with Renault, allows for 27 per cent greater torsional stiffness than before, while the use of ultra high-tensile steel in the body has almost doubled over the old car.

Weight savings have been found by using composite material for the rear tailgate, and aluminium for the front and rear doors, front fenders, and bonnet.

The test car paint job turned out to be something of a work of art, the basic white with black highlights really holding the redesigned rear together, giving the vehicle a unique, sharper look than before.

The signature V-Motion grille and double-decker headlamps add to the Nissan(ness) of the MY23 model, while two-tone body colours – white and black here – make their Nissan debut. The ST-L rolls on 18-inch alloy wheels.

Interior A spacious cabin is versatile, with sliding second row seats to allow for passable access to the optional third row, maximising seating for up to seven. Rear doors open wide, allowing ease of loading.

Despite retaining the same 2705mm wheelbase as the previous X-Trail, there’s more space in the second row, with generous leg and knee room. There’s no skimping on headroom. The big let-down, however, is the lack of legroom in a third row only suitable to take children.

Synthetic leather seats, heated at the front, include power-adjustable driver’s seat.

There’s dual-zone climate control, 360-degree parking camera view, auto-dimming rear-view mirror and leather-accented steering wheel.

Inside, the vehicle is dominated by black surrounds.

However, brown inserts scattered around the cabin, plus white contrasting stitching surprisingly give the gloom a lift.

Storage includes generous cup holders up front, room for big bottles in the doors and a huge central bin. Under the console is another large tray.

The boot floor is split into two removable panels that lift and slot in vertically to separate and hide items. It also includes limited under-floor storage for slimmer items. The X-Trail has a temporary spare wheel.

Infotainment The ST-L is fitted with an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, and AM, FM and DAB+ digital radio.

The new Nissan X-Trail puts on a face to challenge any of its mid-size SUV opponents. (Pictures: Supplied)

There’s a USB-A and C port up front – two more USB ports (one USB-C and one USB-A) in the back – and a wireless charger.

One blessing is the air-conditioning controls are left out of the touchscreen, instead in the form of a row of dials and buttons that are easy to use when driving. The driver also can take advantage of an instrument display consisting of twin analogue dials flanking a 7-inch screen with important info such as speed, fuel economy, safety systems and tyre pressures.

Engines/transmissions Launching on a brand-new platform, the new X-Trail is offered with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine – the same unit as in the Outlander – producing 135 kW of power and 244 Nm of torque.

In front-wheel drive or optional Intelligent 4x4, all grades are fitted with an Xtronic Continuously Variable Transmission.

Maximum braked towing capacity has been increased to 2000kg.

Safety Advanced safety tech earned the X-Trail a five-star ANCAP rating in 2022. On hand is lane keeping assist, lane centring assist, adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, traffic sign recognition, driver attention alert, front

20 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 6 December, 2023

AT A GLANCE MODEL RANGE ST 2WD $36,750 ST AWD 7 seat $37,790 ST-L 2WD $43,190 ST-L AWD 7 seat $46,290 Ti AWD $49,990 Ti AWD ePower hybrid $54,190 Ti-L AWD $52,990 Ti-L AWD ePower hybrid $57,190 SPECIFICATIONS Nissan X-Trail ST-L AWD 2.5L 4-cylinder petrol, CVT automatic, AWD SUV

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

and rear parking sensors, a 360-degree vehicle view and door exit warning.

Forward autonomous emergency braking, with pedestrian and cyclist detection, while low-speed reverse AEB is handy when parking, the latter producing a shock to the driver’s system when first introduced to it in the test vehicle without forewarning.

Driving Performance has seen the benefit of extensive engineering work, with the ST-L skipping along nicely on the bitumen. An upgraded (9 kW / 18 Nm) 135 kW/244 Nm 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine delivers more pep with little noise, vibration and harshness making their way into the cabin.

Fuel consumption on test rose as high as 11.5 litres per 100 kilometres in town traffic, while the best recorded was 5.2 litres per 100 kilometres on a motorway run, averaging within the 7.8 combined urban/highway consumption claimed by Nissan.

Following a full overhaul of chassis and suspension tuning, the new X-Trail has improved on-road ride and handling considerably. With the new Intelligent 4x4 system designed to react quicker than before, power off road is seamlessly transferred from front to rear wheels to help with stability and traction.

As well as hill descent control, the X-Trail ST-L offers five drive and terrain modes – Auto, Eco, Sport, Snow and Off-Road – accessed by a rotator on the centre console.

Summary It’s anyone’s guess how the Nissan will compete on the congested mid-size SUV sales trail. The well-specced ST-L could hold the key.

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

SPORT

Seagull Marty Hore returns to Demons’ list Following an extremely successful Victorian Football League season at Williamstown, Marty Hore is back in the AFL. Melbourne welcomed back the defender with Hore re-joining the club ahead of the 2024 season.

Hore, who was part of the Demons’ list between 2019 and 2021, earned another opportunity via the pre-season supplemental selection period on Monday, following two impressive years in the VFL. He played for North Melbourne’s VFL side in 2022 and the Seagulls for this past season, his efforts earning him back-to-back selection in the VFL team of the year.

Hore also claimed the Seagulls’ best and fairest award in September after averaging 23 disposals and 10 marks across 19 matches.

“Williamstown was a great football club for me,”Hore said. “I had a really enjoyable time there and I think that showed in my

footy, I had a lot of fun and I can’t thank the Williamstown footy club enough.

“I had some back luck when I was here for a couple of years and didn’t play. It’s been important to stay on the park for me and I did that at North Melbourne VFL and then last season at Williamstown.

“I was able to put some good form footy in and stay fit which was the main thing.

“It’s hard working full-time and then trying to play footy with recovery and family time and everything, I think I’ve got the balance pretty good.”

At 190 centimetres tall, Hore is set to add to the Demons’ defensive stocks, alongside some of the competition’s best defenders such as Steven May and Jake Lever.

Hore was first selected by Melbourne with pick 56 in the 2018 national draft, making his AFL debut the following year.

The 27-year-old went on to play 14 senior

games before a knee injury saw him sidelined for the 2021 campaign, and subsequently delisted at season’s end.

“It’s bloody exciting, it’s a great opportunity to come back,” he said.

“It’s a funny one really, I didn’t think I’d come back to the Dees, when I got that phone call I couldn’t believe it to be honest.

“I couldn’t be happier to come back, see familiar faces, I’m still good mates with a lot of the boys so it’s been an easy transition so far.

“I want to keep developing my game, I think I’ve got a lot of improvement left in me at 27, plenty of good footy ahead of me.

“I’m looking forward to it, it’s going to be an exciting pre-season and hopefully I can get a look in early in the season.”

Marty Hore (Jacob Pattison)338076_08

Yarraville Footscray losses thriller

Mon Conti.

(Michael Willson/ AFL Photos)

Conti claims top honour Former Calder Cannons’ gun Monique Conti, who grew up in Keilor and Maidstone, stormed to her first AFLW best and fairest, winning the league’s highest honour with two rounds to spare.

On Monday night, Conti polled 20 of a possible 24 votes across the first eight rounds of the season to take an assailable lead.

She received three votes in each of the Tigers’ five wins against Brisbane, Greater Western Sydney, Carlton, Hawthorn, and Collingwood. She was also judged best afield in the round five loss to Fremantle.

Conti, who juggles football with her basketball commitments with Women’s National Basketball League team the Melbourne Boomers, put an exclamation mark on her win by earning a maximum three votes in round 10.

The Tigers star was last year’s runner-up to Brisbane’s Ally Anderson.

The Maribyrnong Sports Academy graduate was originally drafted to the Western Bulldogs with pick four of the 2017 draft, before joining Richmond for its inaugural season in the competition in 2020.

The 23-year-old adds to her already

extensive resume which includes five All-Australian selections, a premiership in which she was best on ground, Season 7’s AFL Players Association most valuable player award and five club best and fairests.

Conti played in all 10 matches this season, averaging 28.5 disposals, 7.3 clearances, 418 metres gained, 5.8 tackles, and 3.5 score involvements per game.

The dynamic midfielder, known for her blitzing and evasive speed, also led the league for clearances this season, was fourth in the AFLW for disposals and fifth for metres-gained.

When asked when she thought the award was hers, Conti said with a laugh “(the) last round.“ “I don’t know. I just had a pretty good game last round,“ she said.

“We had an amazing win, I was so happy to finish on that.

“I think leading into that (final vote count), it was like ’okay, this is actually real.’“ She finished seven votes ahead of Sydney’s Chloe Molloy, North Melbourne’s Ashleigh Riddell, Gold Coast’s Claudia Whitford and Geelong’s Amy McDonald.

Conti credited her teammates and the people around her for the win.

“We have been challenged a lot this year, but I have got great coaches and great teammates as well,” she said.

“Honestly, you cannot be where you are without your teammates, I think we’ve got a great coach in Ryan Ferguson and great assistants and I have got a great team around me.

“Some good people around me really helps.”

The dual sport athlete said being able to play both footy and basketball keeps her motivated and helps her forge a path for the next generation of female athletes.

“One thing that really keeps me going is knowing that myself and every AFLW player and every WNBL player, we are all role models for young female athletes, and even just young athletes coming through.

“What keeps me going is knowing that I can help create a path for young girls that are being told to choose between one sport or another.”

Conti has now polled 79 votes from her 61 games at AFLW level, highlighting her consistently brilliant level of performance since entering the competition.

Yarraville Footscray fell agonisingly short of its second win of the Bowls Victoria weekend pennant premier division season on Saturday.

In a weekend where many matches was called off, the bottom of the table clash with MCC went ahead and it was a match that went down to the wire.

MCC managed to get home, winning 86 (14)-82 (4).

Craig Mills and Brendan Umbers were the winning skips for Yarraville Footscray while Brett Mahoney and Wayne Roberts both suffered losses, with all rinks close.

Yarraville Footscray remains in seventh spot, 10 points ahead of MCC which got its first win of the season.

Finals seems like a long shot already, with the side 39 points outside the top four at the half way mark.

Altona slipped a spot on the table despite not bowling a bowl.

Altona’s match with ladder leaders Deer Park was abandoned due to heavy rain falling on Saturday and in the lead up to the game.

Bundoora, which got a win against Clayton, jumped Altona into fifth spot.

Altona now sits eight points behind Clayton and five behind Bundoora at the halfway mark of the season.

Altona has the chance this week to go above Bundoora with the two sides facing each other.

Yarraville Footscray will take on Moonee Valley.

The weather played havoc across the competition with many matches not getting underway.

All matches in division 1, section 1, which includes Yarraville Footscray and Altona’s second sides, were called off.

In division 3, section 1, Altona Sports and Williamstown’s matches were washed out, as was Altona 3’s.

Yarraville Footscray 3 managed to get on and took out the points against Palm Lake, 91 (17)-55 (1).

The result moves Yarraville Footscray to the top of the table ahead of Williamstown and Altona.

Tara Murray

Wednesday, 6 December, 2023 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 21

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Seagulls secure goal kicking star in McLaughlin Williamstown has added to its busy off-season with the club pulling off one of the Victorian Football League’s marquee signings.

The Seagulls have secured the services of last season’s VFL leading goal kicker Brodie McLaughlin for 2024.

The 26-year-old booted 55 goals in 20 matches for the premiership winning Suns this year, while also earning his maiden selection in the VFL team of the year.

Seagulls’ director of coaching Jeff Andrews said the signing was an important one for the club.

“He’s obviously one of the best players in the comp, leading goal kicker and he’s probably very stiff to not be on an AFL list,” he said.

“His services were really hotly contested but we are wrapped that he chose Williamstown.

“We’ve lost Joel Ottavi who was a good contested marker and he kicked close to 30 goals for the year so to be able to replace

the goals with a few extra was really important.

“They’re very different types of players but that firepower to be able to capitalise on the good work we do up the field is something that we’ve been looking for so that should help improve us.”

McLaughlin adds to the long list of strong talent the Seagulls have acquired to this point of the offseason, joining Riley Collier-Dawkins, Riley Stoddart, Luke Parks and Joshua Browne at the club.

“It’s only December, so it’s very early days, they’ve still got to play good footy, they’ve got to gel as a team so there’s plenty of water to go under the bridge,” Andrews said.

“But bringing in high quality, driven young men to play the best footy they can and get onto an AFL list.

“It’s been a recipe that’s worked well for us with Marty [Hore] and Oscar [McDonald] getting picked up over the last few weeks.”

To add to the crazy off-season at the club, former St Kilda player and American football punter for the Philadelphia Eagles in the NFL Aaron Sippos joined the club as an assistant coach before departing just days after to join Hawthorn as a development coach under Sam Mitchell.

“That’s the common theme in VFL footy, it’s a real pathway for staff as well as players and we’ve got to embrace that being a part of our role,” Andrews said.

“We were wrapped that Aaron chose to come on board with us but when he’s offered a full time job in footy, which is what he wanted to do, he could never knock that back.

“We were disappointed to be losing his services. We think he’d be a good coach, he’s got plenty to offer the players with the experiences he had at NFL level, but it’s just par for the course.

“It’s what we’re used to, you don’t hang on to good people for too long at VFL level.”

With pre-season up and running the Seagulls are hoping to go further than the semi-final departure they had this season, and early signs are pointing that way Andrews said..

“We’ve been back two weeks, the boys have come back in really good nick, that was something that we emphasised at the end of the season, that any improvement we make in 2024 is going to be from a really concerted effort from everybody,” Andrews said.

“We’re certainly advanced a long way from where we were this time last year with the retention of players and the ability to pick up where we left off.

“The IQ of the new guys that we brought in has meant we’ve been able to take steps forward, but it doesn’t mean anything at this time of year, but we’re happy with how it’s tracking.”

- Harper Sercombe

Sports shorts NPL The National Premier League men’s season will start on February 8 and the women’s season on March 15.

Season 2024 is set to launch with a bang, as South Melbourne host the Melbourne Knights on opening night.

Altona Magic kicks off its season on February 10 at home against Heidelberg United.

WRFL Josh Poulter is returning to Braybrook for next year’s Western Region Football League season. The half back played at Braybrook from 2016-2019 before spending time with Lalor in 2020 and 2021 and the past two seasons at Fitzroy. He joins Harley Cameron and Chase Wassell as new player signings. Cameron comes to the club from the Western Rams, while has been playing under-18s at Greenvale in the Essendon District Football League premier division competition. Both are expected to add to the Brookers forward line.

VTCA Mark Torcaso

Torcaso departs United Western United women’s coach Mark Torcaso has made the decision to leave the club effective immediately.

Torcaso made the decision to resign from his position in order to focus fully on his role as coach of the Philippines women’s national team.

This decision came in consultation with the Philippine Football Federation and with Western United, with the club saying it gives its full support to Torcaso in pursuing this international opportunity.

While he departs as head coach, Torcaso will remain connected to Western United in an advisory role, continuing to facilitate the club’s development pathway for talented players in the west.

Torcaso said it had been an honour to represent Western United as a head coach, affirming his anticipation at seeing the team continue to grow.

“The club has meant everything to me, the players, the staff and everyone involved in it.

To be part of this is something so special and unique,” he said.

“I cannot wait to continue watching this team evolve – this team has the capabilities to go all the way. My connection with the women’s team will remain, just in a different

way. I am looking forward to this and helping in whatever way I can.”

In light of these changes, United has appointed Kat Smith as the club’s new head coach.

One of the leading minds in Australian women’s football, Smith becomes United’s first ever female head coach and will continue the growth of the program which Torcaso started.

Smith guided Western Sydney Wanderers to their second-best ever points tally in the A-League last season and boasts a breadth of experience in the Australian national team set-up.

Smith has worked in assistant coach and analyst positions across youth and senior national teams, including a key analyst role during the recent FIFA Women’s World Cup. Returning to the A-League, Smith said she is ready to write the next chapter in Western United’s short history.

“This is a great opportunity. Building on the foundations and aiming for the next level is an exciting challenge,” she said.

“Our key focus will involve meticulous planning and preparation, effective communication and continuous improvement.

“Collectively, we will strive for excellence

22 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 6 December, 2023

and take a collaborative approach to achieving success. I acknowledge the challenge that the season brings and will endeavour to create a winning culture and an enjoyable environment for all involved.”

Football general manager Mal Impiombato added his delight at securing Smith to continue developing the future of United’s women’s program.

“We are thrilled to welcome Kat to our football club. Kat is an extremely talented coach with a wealth of knowledge and experience, and we are buoyant about the impact she will have at Western United,” he said.

“We welcome Kat to the club and look forward to seeing her continue to build on the foundations that have been set in our women’s department.”

Alongside Smith, Chelsea Noonan will continue in her role as assistant coach and extend her already outstanding work with the team.

Noonan has previously worked as an assistant coach with the Republic of Ireland under-17 women’s national team.

Smith was set take her first session as United coach on Monday as the team begins preparation for the round seven clash against Adelaide United.

St Andrew’s Footscray started its Victorian Turf Cricket Association T20 campaign with a loss against Sunshine Heights. Heights bowlers started well and were able to restrict St Andrew’s to just 100. Harsh Parmar took 2-15 off his four overs, while skipper Mohsin Abbas took 1-15.

Chasing 101, Heights got the winning runs in 11 overs, losing only two wickets, with an impressive opening partnership of 56 from Babur Nadeem and Abbas. It was one of only three matches to get action after heavy rain in the lead up to the matches.

Coates Talent League Western Jets Lucca Grego has been named in the Vic Metro boys summer hub training squad. The squad contains 24 players and will take one in two high performance training camps over the summer months to further assist players in their preparation for the 2024 Coates Talent League season. The girls squads are set to be announced this week.

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Newport Rams bounce back in baseball action Newport Rams overcome its round 10 woes trashing Port Melbourne 8-0 in the Baseball Victoria summer league premier division season on Sunday.

It was a nice way for the Rams to bounce back having lost on the previous Sunday, 10-0.

Speaking before Sunday’s match, Rams’ coach Sean Arnott said he is pleased with the way his side has kicked off the season.

“I’m very happy at this point if someone had said to me at the start of the season that we would be six (now seven) and four, with the squad we’ve got, I would’ve taken it, we’re a very young squad,” he said.

“We’ve had a few hiccups where the score doesn’t look very good on paper but we thought that might happen with the young group, but I’m pretty happy with where we are at that’s for sure.”

Up to the weekend Port Melbourne had been in a very similar situation as Newport, at five

wins and five losses. Before the match Arnott said it was going to be a defining match for the rest of the year.

“Port Melbourne are a good side, they’re not a side that we should take lightly, a couple of years ago they had their struggles but they picked up a really good import last year and he’s come back this year. So it’s a really good challenge for us,” he said.

While the young squad is exciting for the future it has presented its challenges throughout the first 11 matches of the summer. The Rams claimed the division 2 title last season.

“There have been some challenges with availability for the mid-week games but I look at it as an opportunity for our second stringers to get an opportunity and to see what they want to do when they get an opportunity,” Arnott said.

“It’s up to them if they want to make a position in the side their own or whether they’re happy to

have a game here and there and go back to the seconds.

“For the main part I think when the guys are presented with a chance to play in the firsts they try and grab it, and that’s really pleasing.

“I’m all for more games and less practice because the more exposure to playing baseball at a higher level the better.”

With just four matches to play before the Christmas break and the competition splits into two halves for the new year, Arnott’s goal for his side is simple.

“Our goal was to be a part of the top eight and I think we probably need to win two, maybe three of our last five games to secure a spot in the top eight,” he said.

“We’re not really concerned with the ladder position as long as it’s inside the top eight and then we can reassess at Christmas and hopefully make a run towards finals.”

David Asp (Damjan Janevski)

Western United go down again

Jackson Barrett, Shaun Campbell and Chris Muratore (Ljubica Vrankovic) 359359_84_ 2

Co-coaches for Magpies

By Harper Sercombe Parkside will have co-coaches as it returns to the Western Region Football League division 1 competition.

The reigning division 2 premiers have added Michael Licciardo as co-coach alongside Chris Muratore.

Licciardo is no stranger to Merv Hughes Oval having won a flag with the club in 2014.

The club said it wanted to provide more support for Muratore as he also juggles Victorian Football League and family commitments.

“It was about bringing someone with another set of skills and extra knowledge to the footy club,” Muratore said.

“It’s always hard to find someone you can trust and know of and ask a lot of as an assistant coach, so to bring in someone with his background and knowledge and knowing that we could share the title would obviously help us in division 1.

“It wasn’t a worry for myself to share a title or having a title, it was just worrying about what the first year back in division 1 for this footy club looks like and we just wanted to make sure that we get the best people in the best spots and have as many of them as we can and getting Michael who’s a really close mate of mine was just a really good fit.

“He knows what being a Parksider is all about, the history that it comes with and the big following that it does have, so that was really important.”

Muratore said he went pretty hard to get Licciardo across a couple of months ago saying he deserves an opportunity to be senior coach.

“This is his first time doing it and if I can help him out with a little bit of knowledge along the way, and we can bounce off each other, it’s going to make us better as a whole,” he said.

It’s not just the coaching that has changed in the off-season with the Magpies bringing in more than a dozen fresh faces to the club, headlined by star brother duo, Jack and Tom Condon from the Essendon District Football League premier division runners up, Strathmore.

“It’s been a huge off-season, we knew our list was really good in B-grade but we needed to make sure that we were going to be really good in A-grade,” Muratore said.

“We want to go up and be strong and still be really competitive, you see so many sides go up and then just be OK, we don’t want to go up and have a two or three win season, we want to be really successful and make sure the jump that we’ve been trying to have for 15 years is a good one.

“We’ve pretty much kept 90 per cent of the

whole list… a lot of the guys love being around the place, we’ve created a really good culture where I think we’ve only lost something like two players in two years to other football clubs.

“We’ve nailed the off-season, we’ve got four or five new coaches on board as well, it’s been really positive and successful, to know now that we can get to training and be happy with our list is a real positive.”

Tom Condon was the EDFL’s leading goal kicker last season, slotting 67 majors, including four in the grand final loss to Keilor.

“I went and watched the grand final against Keilor and I just thought I’ve got to put this guy in a Parkside jumper and do whatever I can to do it, and put our club back on the map with a quality person and player,” Muratore said.

“With Jack being a great leader down back we’ve sewed up both ends with two quality A-grade guys who have been around and played high standards of footy.”

The only question mark remaining is over the signature of the three time league best and fairest Shaun Campbell. While the premiership skipper is yet to put pen to paper, with a move to Queensland on the cards, Muratore is confident his star player will commit to the Magpies in the coming weeks.

Western United’s winless streak has continued this time going down to an in-form Wellington Phoenix outfit.

Attacking midfielder Ben Old helped steer Phoenix to the top of the A-League Men table with a late winner in a 1-0 victory in Ballarat.

Both sides struggled to break the deadlock deep into Saturday’s clash, Old settled the tie with a sweeping right-foot strike that flew past goalkeeper Thomas Heward-Belle in the 79th minute. However, it wasn’t without an extra layer of drama with the video assistant referee (VAR) needing to run its eye over the goal.

The goal was cleared for off side and the goal stood, giving United its fifth straight loss following its victory against Melbourne City in round one.

“It was a bit of a sucker-punch that the goal got allowed because it looked offside,” United coach John Aloisi said after the match.

“The camera angles aren’t that good here because of the way the stadium is and there’s not as many cameras as normal.

“You can’t change the decision, so there’s no use in me getting angry.

“You just have to get on with it and make sure that the players aren’t getting too down.”

Yet Phoenix may have been lucky to escape with a victory, as United had the upper hand in many of the major stats. United had an extra five shots on goal and three on target than their counterparts and had marginally more possession.

“Our general play and performances have been better than the oppositions in the last four games, but we’re coming away with zero points in those four games,” he said.

Western United will hope to get back on the winners list when they face the Central Coast Mariners on Friday night up north.

The women will return from international break and play Adelaide United on Saturday.

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