Star Weekly - Hobsons Bay Maribyrnong - 14th February 2024

Established in 1875 as the

proudly serving Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay

14 FEBRUARY, 2024

SPOTSWOOD

NOW OPEN UNION QUARTER, 31-69 MCLISTER ST

Your new neighbourhood food store Discover a fresh new bakery, delicatessen, fresh fruit and veg department and more at our fresh new Woolworths Spotswood.

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e’re excited to announce the completion of our fresh new store. You’ll find our friendly team and a large fresh food department offering everything from Australian fruit and veg to The Odd Bunch range.

We have a great, convenient range that is easy toshop.

You’ll fall in love with our new deli, with cured meats sliced

to order. We’ve got everything you need for the perfect platter, plus a fantastic selection of Australian and imported cheeses.

Walk past our in-store bakery and explore the delicious range of bread, including crusty loaves, sliced white and wholemeal rolls. Our artisan-style breads are divine and are made with Australian wheat flour.

There’s so much to see and try at your new Woolworths, we suggest heading over to the seafood counter. Seafood is a big part of our fresh food offering and we have a range of great value, locally sourced favourites.

Just a small taste of what you’ll discover at our fresh new Woolworths Spotswood.

You’ll find us located at Union Quarter, 31-69 McLister St.

Download the Everyday Rewards app now.

Visit everydayrewards.com.au for more information.

100% Australian meat

Direct to boot service

All our fresh beef, lamb, pork and chicken is Australian grown.

Order online and have our personal shoppers bring your groceries direct to your boot. Plus, order before 1pm for pick up that afternoon.

Australia’s healthiest own brands five years in a row^ ^According to The George Institute for Global Health’s FoodSwitch: State of the Food Supply report (2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023).

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Make everyday count

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SPOTSWOOD

NOW OPEN

Being part of the local community is very important to us. If you’re a local business or group in the area, please feel free to use our community noticeboard for your next event or service messages.

See you soon !

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McLister St

Dan Murphys

Woolworths Spotswood

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You’ll find our number one focus is freshness, so you’ll find a market full of delicious Aussie fruit and veg, as well as food made fresh in store every day by our resident experts.

Nirali, Store Manager

Birmingham

Spotswood Station

To celebrate our fresh new store, we have a $15 coupon for you on the back page of this catalogue. So come in and say hello, we’re open from 7am to 11pm, 7 days a week.

Spotswood Primary School

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Our number one focus is freshness, so you’ll find a market full of delicious Australian fruit and veg, as well as food made fresh in store every day by our resident experts.

We understand life is busy in Spotswood. To help we have Direct to boot, where you can order online and pick up your order for free. One of our dedicated team members will even bring your shopping straight to your boot! Same day Direct to boot is available if you order before 1pm, or select a time to suit you.

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e’re excited to announce our fresh new store is complete and we look forward to meeting you, your family and friends.

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Want your $10 off faster?

Make every shop count and scan your Everyday Rewards Card.

Nirali Store Manager

$

15 Off

Direct to boot has arrived We pick, pack and pop your groceries in your boot. No need to leave your car. Try it today and enjoy $15 off your Direct to boot shop~ with code SPOTSWOOD

~Offer valid from 9/2/24 to 23/2/24 and can only be redeemed once on Direct to boot at Spotswood. Discount will be activated when voucher code SPOTSWOOD is applied at checkout and all other criteria is met. Min. spend of $150 in a single transaction applies. Available only at woolworths.com.au (excluding Everyday Market from Woolworths orders) to new Woolworths Online customers on their first shop and existing Woolworths Online customers on their next shop. Subject to available windows, order cut-off times and dates (as applicable). Reusable bag fees and exclusions apply. Visit woolworths.com.au for full T&Cs for shopping on Woolworths Online.

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Shop now at woolworths.com.au or download the Woolworths app.

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SPOTSWOOD

NOW OPEN From the farm to your table Your new local fresh fruit and vegetable market is here bringing you the best of the country.

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hen it comes to fresh, it doesn’t get any fresher than this. We take great pride in partnering with Australian farmers to bring you fruit and veg – fresh, crisp and full of flavour.

You might also notice that one of our sections has fruit and veg that looks a little bit different. We call this range The Odd Bunch. It’s made up of fresh produce that looks different, but is just as beautiful on the inside, healthy and nutritious and represents great value. Not only does it save you money but it helps our farmers sell more too. There’s nothing odd about that.

Ask any of our friendly experts what’s in season, or if you’d like your heavy fruit or veg cut and wrapped to size, just ask!

For our bread & pastry fans Our new bakery offers artisan-style bread and sweet treats every day of the week.

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shining star of our fresh new store, the bakery is your one-stop shop for gourmet loaves, pastries and party cakes. It’s pretty easy to find too, just follow that moreish smell of baked bread.

The team are not just baking the bread but offering to slice it too.

If you love a good loaf, you won’t be disappointed. We use only the finest ingredients in our in-store range with Australian wheat flour.

Our desserts make any day a celebration. There’s a cake for everyone, whether you have a soft spot for Traditional Carrot Cake, prefer Orange & Poppy Seed or want to go all out with our Indulgent Chocolate and Caramel Cake.

Discover our gourmet range Come in and check out our premium authentic range throughout the store. From beans, chutney, broth & stocks, to sauces, condiments and salts and seasonings, these products are proudly supplied by local Victoria producers including Yarra Valley Gourmet Foods, Rich Glen Yarrawonga and JimJam Foods near Beechworth.

You’ll also discover an extensive range of loose tomatoes and potatoes, as well as a variety of specialty cheese and parmesan wedges. And for chocolate lovers, we now offer a range of premium chocolate blocks and gift packs from the Ministry of Chocolate and Lindt.

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SPOTSWOOD

NOW OPEN UNION QUARTER, 31-69 MCLISTER ST

Deli delights I Drop by your new deli and enjoy a slice of the good life. nspired by a classic Italian delicatessen, our glass cabinets are brimming with cured meats, salami, salads and antipasti from local and international producers. All these delicacies are ready to serve but we can slice your meats just the way you like it – thick, thin or shaved. Please ask for a taste if you can’t decide, there’s plenty to try.

One of our deli favourites is the D’Orsogna sliced honey leg ham served off the Bone, made from Australian Jarrah Honey and Australian Pork. The D’Orsogna family has been crafting authentic and flavoursome smallgoods here in Australia for more than 67 years.

From a humble suburban butcher shop, D’Orsogna has been in partnership with Woolworths for more than 60 years and has grown into a well-loved national brand.

Our cheese section is also filled with goodies from small and large local makers, as well as international classics such as aged Italian pecorino, Swiss gruyère and rich, creamy French brie.

The olive section is worth exploring too, with plump Sicilians, rich Kalamatas and a wide variety of sliced, marinated and stuffed varieties ready to enjoy.

Your local fish market A Del

iscover an array of exceptional seafood on display. Just one of the great reasons to make our new fish market your local. If you need some advice, ask the team what they’ve been buying, and what they’re taking home for dinner.

An addition to our store is the Bag & Bake offering at the fish market counter. It’s easy to do, and

free. Simply select your favourite piece of fish and choose a sauce, such as Teriyaki & Ginger. A team member will seal the bag for you to take home and bake in your oven.

Need help? Our friendly team are on hand to help you choose the right fish for the dish.

•• •• Prosciutto is great in appetisers, served with melon and mozzarella or simply enjoyed on its own.

We supply Woolworths Spotswood with 100% Tasmanian salmon that’s certified sustainable by the Aquaculture Stewardship Council.

Tassal Salmon Supplying Woolworths since 2004

Say cheese There’s a lot to smile about with delectable cheeses to choose from.

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f you’re a cheese lover, you’ll feel like a kid in a candy store when you visit our new cheese destination. Hand-picked from around the globe, we’ve got a collection of different types to try. From local soft cheeses and truffle infused French Brie to beautifully aged Italian Parmigiano-Reggiano.

And the sky’s the limit when it comes to using your favourites. Crumble blue cheese over a pear salad, grate Parmesan on to pasta and risotto dishes, or try grilling a little Haloumi at your next BBQ.

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As with many good things in life, a sense of adventure is key, as you never know what new favourites you’ll discover. A good starting point is exploring cheese made from different types of milk. Cow’s milk tends to be the mildest in flavour – its creamy, sweet taste translates into a more subtle base flavour. Goat’s milk turns into a slightly more grassy, sweet and tangy cheese, whereas sheep’s milk has a milder grassy flavour with a tangier backbone and less buttery taste. And from there it’s time to start tasting from different regions around Australia, and then the world. Bon appétit!

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Established in 1875 as the

proudly serving Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay

14 FEBRUARY, 2024

A lot to love about Laverton

Laverton Festival Committee members, Wayne Fleming, Jane Flynn, Anne Randall, Shania (1), with Community Bank representatives, Gladys McKenzie and Brandon White. (Jacob Pattison) 386660_01

It is the Laverton community’s turn to experience a fun day out with the upcoming Laverton Festival.

Laverton Traders Association marketing manager Anne Randall has been with the festival since it began more than 20 years ago.

“It was a lot smaller when it first began, we started out hosting it on a piece of asphalt with nothing,” she said.

“Now we have an amazing stage and it is held in an inviting environment.”

More than 5000 people are expected to attend over the course of the day, which Ms Randall said requires a larger location.

The event will be held at Curlew Community Park for a day of live music, rides, food trucks and stalls.

“It is free to enter, however there will be a $15 kids package which includes all rides and activities,” she said.

In addition to the activities and rides, Ms Randall says parents and other adults will also be entertained with a line of local talents and performances.

The event will be held on Sunday, February 18.

Plea to axe big building

By Jennifer Pittorino

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Footscray locals are pleading with the state government to stop their neighbourhood from being taken over by a new multi-storey healthcare centre.

As previously reported by Star Weekly the planning permit for this nine-storey health centre was knocked back by Maribyrnong council at its November meeting. Despite this refusal, the final decision is with the state government given the large cost of the build.

Nearby home owner Anson Le said the proposed use of the land at 5-11 Geelong Road, Footscray, is not suitable for the development proposed by Erica Heathcare Partners.

“A small number of households, including myself, received a letter from Urban Planning

Collective informing us of the proposal and where we could submit feedback,” he said.

“The letter was delivered on January 24, informing everyone that a decision could be made by February 5 at the earliest. It only really gave us a few business days to digest the proposal, meaning we had less time to put forward our objections.”

With limited community consultation and a number of site concerns, Mr Le is adamant this is not the right location for a build of this size.

“It is going to be completely dominant in the skyline and is going to be directly overlooking every single direct neighbour’s backyard as it will be 40 metres high,” he said.

“The building is too big, it’s going to completely dwarf everything around this

neighbourhood which is predominantly made up of low rise residential homes.”

But, Mr Le says the main reason residents are against the development is due to the lack of engagement and discussion. He said the community had been completely ignored in the process and there had been no direct communication with the community.

Residents have created a Change.org petition against the development which has accumulated more than 180 e-signatures. They have also sent a number of objections through to the Department of Planning, as well as various correspondence with Footscray MP Katie Hall as well as councillors.

Maribyrnong council chief executive Celia Haddock said council did not support the proposal in November and that hasn’t changed.

“Council believes the development’s overall scale would overwhelm the residential area to the south and east of the proposed development,” she said. “Council has expressed a need for the state to engage meaningfully with council and residents regarding the proposal.”

A Department of Transport and Planning spokesperson said the plans for the proposed Footscray facility are still available online.

“No decision has been made and we welcome submissions from the community which will be considered as a part of the decision making process.“ A spokesperson for Erica Healthcare Partners said “We do not wish to comment as the matter is currently being considered via the planning process”.

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THE LITERALLY BREATHTAKING BIT

Hit the open road and into the loving embrace of Mother Nature.

Hike, climb, crawl (or drive, we won’t judge) your way to the top. The view will take your breath away in more ways than one.

Get lost in breathtaking places like Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park.

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VISITVICTORIA.COM

2 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 14 February, 2024

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Techno Park continues to unfold

By Jennifer Pittorino For Williamstown’s Techno Park residents, it seems like every day brings a new challenge.

Last week, the ABC published internal Hobsons Bay council documents sourced through a Freedom of information (FOI) request, which revealed details of a campaign to evict residents from their homes.

For almost one year, residents have been involved in an ongoing battle with council.

Last May, council wrote to Lara Week and dozens of her neighbours in the Williamstown estate ordering them to move out.

Techno Park Drive sits opposite a row of fuel storage tanks in a fuel refinery owned by Mobil.

Among the documents obtained by the ABC, a planned eviction campaign titled

‘Operation Pegasus’ suggested Mobil asked the council to resolve the zoning issue as early as 2018, which Ms Week said contradicts the council’s public claims .

“You see them referring to us as Operation Pegasus, council’s code name for their eviction of families, pensioners and other low income residents from our homes,” she said.

“The information in their internal documents completely contradicts what they’ve been saying to the public.

“Council said they were obliged to act urgently to remove people from their homes.

But in 2022 they say they know of at least 40 of the units being residential, and that people have been living there for more than 15 years and are entitled to existing use rights to remain.”

Council documents from 2022 indicate that

Mobil asked council to enforce the planning scheme four years prior, when the refinery was still in operation.

“It appears that back then council respected our existing use rights to stay in our homes.

Why now are they trying to force a mass eviction?“ Ms Week said.

In what Ms Week described as a “disturbing read”, the documents also revealed council began planning the evictions at least six months before it ordered the residents immediate eviction.

Ms Week understands there are three ways these residents can remain in their homes.

One is for council to adopt a planning scheme amendment that would make residential use of homes in Techno Park valid.

“If our councillors want to stop this eviction,

they can. They could vote for an overlay that would keep the zone industrial, and the homes residential. That is what councillors in the City of Yarra did in 2015,” she said.

“Or the planning minister could intervene and introduce a planning amendment herself.

“Or we could be forced to fight council in VCAT. If that has to happen, it will cost hundreds of thousands of dollars to ratepayers, and cost residents years of our lives.

“But our community is staying in our homes.”

A state government spokesperson said, “The council has not submitted a planning scheme amendment to rezone the land to the Department of Transport and Planning. Any submission would be assessed on its merits.“ Hobsons Bay council was approached for comment.

Student tech trio are Young Citizens of the Year Three young high achievers have been named as this year’s Young Citizens of the Year for Hobsons Bay. Friends Ada Goldenberg, Emmaline Soliman and Emily Vella are all thrilled to share the honour for their achievements in the last year.

As previously reported by Star Weekly, the 10-year-olds developed an idea for an app that tells people which public litter bin to use for rubbish.

This will be the second time the trio is recognised for their innovative skills, after previously winning a United Nations award through the Tech Girls Foundation in September.

Although one of the girls has now moved schools from St Mary’s in Williamstown, Emmaline’s mum Merna Soliman is confident the girls will continue their friendship and creative partnership.

“The girls are very excited and super proud.

They can’t wait to explore what options they have,” she said.

The app encourages users to take a photo of their litter to find out which of the coloured bins it should go in and then receive reward points which can be redeemed through local businesses.

On a high from the win, Ms Soliman said the girls are excited to continue pursuing the app and exploring where it can go.

“They are so passionate about it and can’t wait to collaborate with council on an on-going basis,” she said.

Ada (10), Emmaline (10) and Emily (10) are Hobsons Bay councils Young Citizen of the Year. (Jacob Pattison)386175_03

Dreaming big, the group is hopeful that this app will make a real difference in Hobsons Bay and eventually stand as a blueprint for other councils to replicate across the country.

In other news the girls are looking to start their own business , making moves by attending information sessions on entrepreneurship and young girls in business.

“It is really lovely seeing the three of them together because they feed of each other, they are all very passionate.”

Critical Mass cyclists ride in to protest for safer roads It has been a bumpy year for cyclists and pedestrians in the Footscray area, which is the reason behind a Critical Mass protest.

Community group Bike West is running the mass and organiser Pierre Vairo said the event is to protest and highlight some of the serious safety issues for cycling in the west.

He said they have two paths that people can use to access the city.

Mr Vairo said one is Footscray Road which is deemed the “safe road”, although cyclist Angus Collins was killed here when he was hit by a truck in early 2023.

The second is Dynon Road, which they consider “far less safe.”

“It has weaving intersections and generally a lot of trucks, it is horrible,” he said.

Cyclists will be using the mass to air their frustration over the conditions cyclists have faced in the past year, due to the construction of the West Gate Tunnel.

BikeWest members will be joined by residents of the Joseph Road apartment precinct (JRP) who have been campaigning for footpaths, pedestrian crossings and amenity improvements.

A happy moment from last years Critical Mass. (Supplied)

BikeWest said JRP residents have witnessed a number of bike-car collisions at Joseph Road, as well as the death of Frances Jeyann Ramirez, who was hit by two cars as she tried to cross an intersection in December.

“To deal with the tunnel work, the Footscray Road path has been closed on and off this year

and it’s currently closed indefinitely,” he said.

The path was closed in September for works as part of the Westgate Tunnel Project, before reopening in October.

It was then closed again on November 3, due to the Maritime Union’s industrial action against DP World, with the two parties since

reaching an agreement at the Fair Work Commission which should lead to the path being reopened.

Mr Vairo hopes this protest will encourage the reopening as soon as possible.

“We are hoping this action has been resolved and we really want to encourage the Department of Transport to hurry that along,” he said.

“The other issue we would like to highlight is the 600 metres of missing bike lanes from the middle of Hopkins Street to central Footscray.”

The ride will take place on Friday, February 23, beginning at the state library for departure at 5.30am, to finish up in Footscray for speeches and refreshments.

A Department of Transport and Planning spokesperson said that the department regularly reviews its network, including its cycling corridors, to identify potential improvements.

“We welcome feedback and will work with the community on how we can further improve safety on our roads.“ Jennifer Pittorino

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Dust-up over soil-washing facility

By Hannah Hammoud and Jennifer Pittorino A petition from members of a local air quality advocacy group has been drawn to the attention of the state government, calling for an order to prevent a Brooklyn waste management company from building a soil-washing facility.

Bearing 206 signatures, Williamstown MP Melissa Horne presented the petition, which includes a demand for the state government to ensure the EPA takes immediate action to prevent the soil-washing facility being established, “and move any other dust producing activity to areas where air pollution impacts will be minimised“.

The Inner West Air Quality Community

Reference Group said the Brooklyn and West Sunshine communities “vigorously oppose” the development of the proposal in the interests of the health, safety and liveability of its residents.

Last year, waste management company ResourceCo said in a letter sent to residents that it is seeking to submit a Development Licence Application for the addition of a soil-washing facility within the existing site at 125 Bunting Road, Brooklyn. ResourceCo intends to receive 200 tonnes of material per hour from 6am to 6pm through Monday to Friday, with an annual limit of 500,000 tonnes per year.

The company said material that arrives at site will be stored in designated areas within existing sheds to await processing.

The Inner West Air Quality Community

Reference Group was established by the state government in 2018, with representatives from the community, local councils and community groups, to investigate and better understand local air pollution issues, concerns, and sources across Melbourne’s inner west, including Brimbank, Hobsons Bay and Maribyrnong local government areas.

The petitioners believe the facility will add to the already “high burden“ of pollution in Brooklyn. Reference group member Geoffrey Mitchelmore said Brooklyn residents have been subjected to air pollution over the past 30 years.

“They’re talking about 220 trucks coming in and out of Brooklyn a day,” he said. “... So much for reducing the trucks in the west.”

Mr Mitchelmore said the proposed

soil-washing facility is unsuitable for Brooklyn - an area that is “already heavily polluted” by dust and transportation. “We are hoping that the [state] government will step in and move their operations somewhere else,” he said.

“We’ve been fighting this for 20 years, and now it’s getting worse, it doesn’t make any sense.”

ResourceCo said it is currently working with the Brooklyn community as part of a “proactive engagement process.”

“We’re committed to understanding the priorities of the local community as we implement site improvements in line with our industry leading resource recovery operations,” it said.

Minister Horne and the EPA were both contacted for comment.

Community funding open

Margaret Neyland is celebrated her 90th birthday surrounded by family. (Damjan Janevski) 387675_03

Ninety golden years for Margaret Not many people have lived in Altona longer than Margaret Neyland, who celebrates her 90th birthday this week.

Born on February 15 1934, Margaret grew up in Altona, a community which her son Bruce Neyland says loves and respects her.

“She loves Altona. She often talks about old memories of what happened a long time ago,” he said.

When looking back on these memories, Margaret finds she has roots in philanthropy, community activism and more, experiencing many adventures in her 90 years.

It was 1955 when Margaret married the love of her life, Keith Neyland.

The pair met through work, and later

ventured into their own business founding Kiema Press Printing.

Working in local newspaper printing her whole working life, Margaret explored other avenues as a founding member of the Altona Sport Club, a worldwide traveller and a champion bowles player.

“Mum worked hard in the factory, but with all the hard work they were able to retire in their early 50’s and spend their time travelling around Australia and the world,” said Bruce.

Margaret recalled her favourite trips were to Western Australia with her whole family, enjoying the landscapes and activities.

As a mother of three, grandmother of

eight, and great-grandmother of fifteen, Mrs Margaret said she is always busy with family.

“They are all so good and they all love me, I especially have a lot of fun with my great grandchildren, we play games and stuff like that.”

These days Margaret enjoys knitting quilts and baby blankets, but she enjoys bowling above anything else.

“I love bowling on a Saturday and Tuesday if I am needed as a member of the sports club.”

Margaret celebrated her birthday on Sunday, February 11, at Altona Sport Club surrounded by friends and family.

The latest round of applications are open for the state government’s West Gate Neighbourhood Fund.

Funding is available for not-for-profit community organisations with initiatives that help support their local communities.

The state government said this round of funding will have two components, grants and partnerships.

Grants will provide funding for one off activities or events, whereas partnership funding will support infrastructure projects that provide a significant and lasting outcome.

Partnerships and grants are available for initiatives in the Hobsons Bay and Maribyrnong council areas to support communities most impacted during construction of the West Gate Tunnel Project.

Projects should be ready to get started now and need to be completed by June 2025.Applications for the fund are open now and will close on Monday, March 18.

Williamstown MP Melissa Horne said it’s exciting to see the local community transforming with the help of the fund.

“The next round will lead to many more improvements and opportunities for Williamstown,“ she said.

“The latest round of partnerships and grants will mean that more local sports clubs and community groups will have access to the facilities and equipment they need to create happy, healthy, and active communities.”

Details: westgatetunnelproject.vic.gov. au/neighbourhoodfund.

Jennifer Pittorino

Footballers pull on their boots to help the food insecure Two of the AFL’s biggest clubs Richmond and Collingwood will go head to head in the upcoming AAMI Community Series Match, with all funds raised to go to Foodbank.

The clubs will play for the inaugural Charity Shield at Ikon Park on Tuesday, February 27, to help Foodbank feed 57,000 Victorians daily.

Foodbank Victoria chief executive Dave McNamara said that families sacrificed food to keep a roof over their heads.

“We feed 57,000 Victorians in need every single day,” he said.

“That’s more than a packed Marvel Stadium.

We see people from all walks of life and pretty much every one of them has a footy team they love.

“Every dollar donated is two meals created.

It’s that simple.“ Both clubs intend to make the Charity Shield an annual pre-season game, with funds going each year towards those that need it most.

Richmond chief executive Brendon Gale said many people across the community are doing it tough.

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“Something as simple as putting food on the table is challenging,” he said.

“Collectively Richmond, Collingwood, and our members and supporters can make a significant difference to this, and we intend to do that by packing out Ikon Park later this month.”

Proving that footy fans can do more than support their clubs, Collingwood chief executive Craig Kelly said this match will make a significant difference to the lives of those in need.

“We know that for many people it is a daily struggle to put food on the table but from this match, we look to raise important funds for those in need of food relief and hope that this initiative will make a significant difference to the lives of many.”

To support the fundraising efforts, both clubs sought permission from the AFL to fully-ticket the match and requested an adjusted entry price for members. Club members and the general public will need to purchase a ticket and members must upgrade to a paid ticket.

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Lack of funding bites food relief

By Hannah Hammoud Across Australia queues for food relief continue to grow. The situation is no different in Braybrook at the Duke Street Community House (DSCH).

The DSCH has been a source of support for locals in Braybrook for a number of years. But with rising demand and dwindling resources, the future of its food relief service is under a cloud.

DSCH manager Emma Price said currently the food relief program operates without funding.

“Demand is currently in excess of what we can provide,” she said.

“During COVID-19 our food relief program expanded to a point where we realised we couldn’t house it in our small, little neighbourhood house. We had the very generous support of Central West Shopping Centre who offered us the space two years ago, at no cost. Now we’re coming up to three years that we’ve been delivering the program in Braybrook “In the last 12 months we have seen a massive increase in our weekly service, with a range of people connecting with our service, many who have never accessed food relief before. There are many people working and people who receive government benefits, but it’s not covering all their costs.”

Ms Price said as demand continues to climb, the future of the food relief program is becoming increasingly uncertain.

“Currently we fund it completely internally, we run at a loss - and it is a massive financial burden to our community house. We have lovely key partners and we previously had state government funding for the food relief program, but those funds ceased as of the end of last year,” she said.

Despite operating at a loss, the Duke Street Community House continues to deliver its food relief service. Pictured are volunteers Estevan and Jadwiga. (Damjan Janevski) 386360_01

A state government spokesperson said the DSCH receives funding through the state government’s Neighbourhood House Coordination Program. However Ms Price said the funding is used for the day to day operations of the organisation and its core services.

“DSCH receives minimal funding from the state government which does not cover the cost of the food relief program. We do not receive specific funding for the food relief program, and there is no room to cover the cost of the program within the funding we do receive,” Ms Price said.

“We recognise that the need for food relief in our community is so huge so we made the decision not to step out at the end of last year. It was an incredibly tough decision for an organisation our size to make, but an even tougher decision would be to leave 150 families without food to eat.”

The DSCH offers the food relief service with a postcode restriction, accessible to locals living in the 3020, 3019 and 3012 postcodes through a ‘market-style’ service.

“We are able to provide people with choice so that they’re not just getting a box, and it also helps reduce food waste as people can choose foods they like to eat and know how to cook with,” Ms Price said.

“At times food does run out, and at the moment we are able to meet the needs of everyone who comes in and nobody leaves empty handed. However, quite often people who might present to us don’t live in the area and so we make sure they don’t leave empty handed, but unfortunately they can’t come back.

“Long term it’s not a viable option for us to continue internally funding it, what that means is that we have to either reduce our service or ideally refer our families onto other local services, however most other services like us are also struggling to meet demand.”

Maribyrnong council chief executive Celia Haddock said council acknowledges that people in the community are dealing with cost of living pressures, leading to higher demand for food services.

“While Maribyrnong council does provide funding to Duke Street Community House, along with Brimbank council, and other neighbourhood houses within the municipality, the state government is best placed to provide ongoing funding for this program,” she said.

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Wednesday, 14 February, 2024 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 5

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Volunteer drive to help

By Jennifer Pittorino Learning to drive is a hard enough experience as it is, let alone not having access to a supervising driver or car.

For the past five years Tony Cutroni has dedicated his time and patience to teach as a volunteer mentor to learner drivers across Hobsons Bay. This is all done through the TAC L2P Program which Mr Cutroni discovered through the Laverton Community Hub. “It is a very good program and very enjoyable,” he said.

With a teaching background, Mr Cutroni is a man of patience and loves helping people.

“Years ago I was a teacher and then I was in public service in the training section where I was involved in teaching adults,” he said.

“I am also a qualified language teacher to migrants English as a second language.”

Most mentors teach one student at a time, except for Mr Cutroni who is currently dividing his time between two students.

Over the years Mr Cutroni has taught eight students, something he is very proud of.

“They have all been very good and all have different skills and abilities,” he said.

“As a mentor, you have to adjust his or her driving style according to the student.”

The structure of the teaching depends on how many hours the student has driven. Mr Cutroni said most of the time they have only logged five or ten hours.

“That means we need to get them up to 120 hours. I usually do two hours of driving with them a week.”

Mr Cutroni said he couldn’t recommend the program enough. If you enjoy driving and helping others this could be your calling.

The cars have been provided by both Hobsons Bay and Wyndham councils, so no

L2P volunteer mentor Tony Cutroni. (Jacob Pattison) 386851_02

personal cars are required.

TAC L2P project coordinator Naheed Akhtrar said the program is always looking for new mentors.

“This program is more or less about creating a bond and teaching them some other life skills other than just driving,” she said.

“We have mentors who are from all age groups and put in whatever hours they like.”

All interested applicants can apply through the VicRoads website.

Details: https://www.vicroads.vic.gov.au/ licences/your-ps/get-your-ps/preparingfor-your-licence-test/l2p-learner-drivermentor-program

Celebrate the Lunar New Year Hobsons Bay council is inviting Hobsons Bay residents to celebrate the Lunar New Year in Seabrook.

According to council, Seabrook will welcome the Lunar New Year with a free community event celebrating multiculturalism.

The event was an idea from the local Seabrook community through Council’s Pitch your Project program. It will be held at Homestead Run Reserve on Saturday, February 17, from 2pm to 6pm.

It will include traditional dance, music, magic, puppetry, and a mask-making workshop.

Council said residents can bring a picnic rug and settle in for a day of fun and entertainment.

Parking is limited, so people are encouraged to walk, cycle or use public transport to get to the event.

A Lunar New Year event will also be held in Williamstown at the Rotunda in Commonwealth Reserve from 11am to 2pm.

Local musician Qi Qi will be playing the guzheng, a traditional 21-stringed zither that releases a resonant melody.

Accompanied by Madison Lu performing a Chinese fan dance.

Hobsons Bay mayor Matt Tyler said, “We have an incredible, multicultural community in Hobsons Bay, and this event in Seabrook is going to be a great celebration of that.

“It’s all about bringing people together and celebrating the cultures that make Hobsons Bay such a great place to live, work and play.”

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6 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 14 February, 2024

‘Old Swampy’ also known as Ross Daniels. (Damjan Janevski) 386607_02

‘Old Swampy’ is back Local comedian Ross Daniels is bringing back his show for another stint, this time at the Melbourne Comedy Festival.

“My show ‘Offline’ is back by popular demand as my previous shows went very well,” he said.

“This time around I have streamlined it and updated the jokes to keep it fresh for 2024.”

Bouncing off the positive feedback from his previous shows, Daniels is bringing back the characters everyone knows and loves.

“Everyone enjoys the characters and that’s what they are expecting,” he said.

“But people said they also really liked the fact that I tied the show together with a thread and connected the story throughout , something that they weren’t expecting.”

The show will unfold as Daniels puts on a show of his best characters, only to be held back by an unseen force sabotaging the show.

Returning to the stage will be Old Swampy,

the diehard Doggies supporter and his son Terry who is a “chemically damaged showpony” and a “very popular character.”

They will be joined by the omniscient neighbour, who is based on Daniels’ own real life neighbour.

“He always seems to know everything that’s going on in the street and beyond,” said Daniels.

And finally, the team is complete with a repurposed character who is the dosed creator of viral videos.

“There will be other voices and characters mixed in the show along with myself, but those are the main acts,” he said.

“I am really looking forward to it and playing at the comedy festival because you tend to get a slightly different audience.“ The show will begin on Thursday, March 28, and run until Sunday, April 7, at Speakeasy Theatre.

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Final summer fun with council

By Cr Tony Briffa The last few weeks of summer are a great time to make the most of our beautiful weather and enjoy some great events in our community.

This Sunday, February 18, the Laverton Festival is on again at Curlew Community Park.

This is a fantastic event that really brings the local community together for a day of fun, low-cost family activities.

It’s so great to see this event grow each year.

It’s such an important way of making everyone feel welcome and part of the community.

There’s entertainment and activities, and you can also find out more about local sports and community groups that you might be interested in joining.

It’s a great celebration of multiculturalism, just as the two Lunar New Year events in Seabrook and Williamstown this Saturday are.

These are free events at Homestead Run Reserve and Commonwealth Reserve, including traditional dance, music and food.

Time is running out to be part of this year’s Pitch Your Project program, where you can pitch an idea to council for a project that will bring the community together.

A great example of this is the upcoming Rubbish Dating events, where people come together in a local reserve and go speed dating while helping clean up any rubbish they might find.

This was a successful idea pitched by a resident last year and helps bring together two important parts of what we do as a council

David Ettershank and Tony Briffa. (Supplied)

– create a community where people feel connected, and looking after our incredible and diverse local environment.

Pitch Your Project closes on February 29, so get your ideas in now.

In my ward, I’m excited to see the progress of the redevelopment of facilities at HC Kim Reserve, home of the Altona City Soccer Club.

The reconstruction of Pitch 1 is complete, as are irrigation upgrades on pitches 2 and 3.

The new pavilion is progressing well and will include six change rooms with amenities, umpires’ facilities, kitchen, social room and club storage.

The pavilion is due to be completed mid-year.

There are plenty of other great events on across Hobsons Bay, including the Birds of Altona Coastal Wetlands, featuring Kevin Wood, one of Australia’s foremost authorities on avifauna conservation in Port Phillip Bay. For details on all these events, visit the Hobsons Bay council website.

NEWS

Briefs Rubbish dating Hobsons Bay council is hosting a series of working bee sessions mixed with speed dating, beginning on Saturday, Feb 17. If you’re aged 25-40 years old wanting to participate in a fun, community matchmaking event that’s good for the environment, council encourages you to check out rubbish dating. Once you’ve been paired with everyone (six-minute pairings) for litter pick-up duties, you’ll have a chance to mingle on-site with a free coffee from the coffee cart. After the event, participants will be sent a form to see who you’d like to match with. Participants’ contact details will only be provided when there is a mutual match. There are two heterosexual sessions and two queer sessions. These events will be hosted by a professional speed dating facilitator. Head to the council website for times and locations.

Small business workshop Hobsons Bay council is hosting a small business workshop to help potential small businesses owners help find out about the essentials of starting a small business. The workshop will be held on Tuesday, February 20, from 10-1 , at the Civic Centre in Altona.

Bookings are essential and can be made through the council website.

FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Maribyrnong & Hobsons Bay Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Grant applications now open Join 120+ community projects funded so far The West Gate Neighbourhood Fund was established by the Victorian Government to support communities in the Hobsons Bay and Maribyrnong Council areas during the construction of the West Gate Tunnel Project.

The $10 million fund seeks to build capacity and connection within these communities. Applications are now open for the latest round of West Gate Neighbourhood Fund with grants up to $20,000 and partnerships over $50,000 that will deliver a lasting benefit to the community now available.

If you have an idea that brings people together, we want to hear from you.

Apply Now Applications close 3pm, 18 March 2024 For more information and/or to apply, visit westgatetunnelproject.vic.gov.au/ neighbourhoodfund 12667836-MP07-24

Wednesday, 14 February, 2024 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 7

NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

First nations head for WestCASA The Western Region Centre Against Sexual Assault (WestCASA) has a new chief executive, an important appointment for reasons beyond just the position itself.

Annette Vickery is the first Indigenous person to lead WestCASA or any other centre against sexual assault, the significance of which isn’t lost on her.

“It’s elevating First Nations women’s voices, particularly in an area where First Nations women over represented,” Ms Vickery said.

WestCASA is a community based not-for-profit sexual assault counselling service

that both supports victim-survivors and runs education and training programs aimed at preventing it.

The service operates right across the western suburbs, an area Ms Vickery knows well.

“I’ve lived here for 22 years now, which, in western metropolitan terms makes me a blow-in still,” laughed the Sunshine resident who also spent three years in Melton while studying psychology and working as a reconciliation officer.

She also spent 10 years as chairperson of the Western Aboriginal regional Aboriginal

Justice Advisory Committee.

“I’ve worked in Koori courts. I worked for Victoria Police as the Aboriginal advisory unit manager, and I was the deputy CEO of the Victorian Aboriginal legal service for six years.

For two years, I was the CEO of Thirrili which is a suicide prevention organisation,” Given her own background, Ms Vickery is understandably keen to work with the Indigenous communities in the west, along with the region’s vast multicultural population.

“The board has been really clear that they want to have confidence that we’re engaging

with every community sector, and making sure everyone knows that the two kinds of service we provide. We provide the reduction of trauma for people impacted by sexual violence.

And we do education and capability building in communities around around eliminating sexual violence.”

Ms Vickery said a particular focus of WestCASA’s education programs would be around consent saysing she is “very keen to get into high schools, sporting groups, any kind of young adult groupings, getting in there and talking about what affirmative consent is.”

Docherty’s doggy donation

Maribyrnong Mayor Cuc Lam with the locker. (Jacob Pattison) 387111_02

New library book locker installed Maribyrnong residents can now collect their library items from a new book locker located at Maribyrnong Aquatic Centre (MAC).

Items can be returned to the book locker or any of the five Maribyrnong library branches.

These are the Braybrook, Footscray Maribyrnong, West Footscray and Yarraville libraries.

The MAC book locker operates during the Maribyrnong Aquatic Centre’s opening hours.

The council said whether it’s early morning or late evening, members can collect or return

their items at a time that suits them best.

Maribyrnong mayor Cuc Lam said the book locker is a free and convenient solution for library members to retrieve their items even if they can’t make it to a library.

“We are thrilled to introduce this new service so that library members can collect their items while enjoying the facilities at Maribyrnong Aquatic Centre,” she said.

“Last year Maribyrnong libraries had more than 300,000 visits and members loaned over 520,000 items.

“The library at MAC book locker makes it easier for all members to access our terrific collection of books, DVDs and more.”

To celebrate the library at MAC, the council said early adopters will go in the running to win a wellbeing prize pack.

To become a member who uses the new locker, residents can visit a Maribyrnong library branch, or sign up online.

Details: https://www.maribyrnong.vic.gov. au/library/Branches/Maribyrnong-Library

Carlton footballer Sam Docherty has chosen Mackillop Family Services as a recipient of a large donation.

The Blues co-captain was the winner of the 2023 AFL Jim Stynes Community Leadership Award and he has donated $10,000 of his winnings to go to charity to the local Mackillop Family Services.

Docherty is an ambassador for Paws4Kids which is a program run through MacKillop Family Services.

The initiative continues to allow more vulnerable children to get back to the classroom through the support of therapy dogs.

Docherty’s donation will have a direct impact on the lives of children across the country.

MacKillop Family Services’ community engagement director Sam Patterson said they thoroughly appreciate the life changing donation.

“Sam is an ambassador for our Paw Pals program, which uses therapy dogs to help students stay connected to education, so they can continue learning and build the foundations to achieve the best outcomes in life,” Patterson said.

“With Sam Docherty’s support, MacKillop Family Services has been able to raise more than $1,500,000, which has enabled us to reconnect more than 800 children to their education with the support of therapy dogs. Sam’s support is changing these young kids’ lives.”

The not-for-profit organisation has facilities in Footscray, Maidstone, Broadmeadows and Melton, offering support for struggling families and children.

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Urgent care ambulance response times trending down

By Jennifer Pittorino The Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay municipalities have recorded improved ambulance response times for urgent care for a second consecutive quarter, according to the latest Ambulance Victoria (AV) response statistics.

Code one incidents, those which require urgent paramedic and hospital care and use lights and sirens, are aimed to be responded to within 15 minutes.

For those in Maribyrnong, the average response time for code one cases from October

to December, was 14 minutes and 16 seconds, a one minute and 51 second improvement on the 16 minutes and seven second average in the previous quarter.

The statistics show 70.8 per cent of responses were responded to within 15 minutes, improving on 63.2 per cent from July to September.

The average response time for patients requiring urgent care in Hobsons Bay from October to December, was 15 minutes and 17 seconds, with 63.2 per cent of call outs having a response of less than 15 minutes.

This is an improved response time of two

8 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 14 February, 2024

minutes and 23 seconds.

In comparison to the last quarter, which had an average response rate of 15 minutes and 46 seconds and only 53.5 per cent of cases responded to within 15 minutes a year earlier.

Ambulance Victoria metropolitan regional director Michael Georgiou said the latest data is pleasing, but further improvement is always welcome.

“While there is more work ahead of us, it is encouraging that our response to Code 1 emergencies improved a full minute and 46 seconds across Victoria compared to a year ago,’ he said.

“We are proud of the outstanding care our dedicated and hardworking paramedics and first responders deliver every day.

“Around Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay, we have been dynamically deploying additional crews at peak times to improve our response capability in areas where major infrastructure projects are underway.

“It is also great to see people in Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay embracing the Victorian Virtual Emergency Department (VVED) for non-urgent cases to avoid unnecessary trips to our emergency departments.”

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plea Retirement for Elizabeth Witness over thefts

By Jennifer Pittorino

For more than 33 years, Elizabeth Drozd has worked in community service and it’s only now she feels it is time for her to move on.

Ms Drozd, the chief executive of Australian Multicultural Community Services (AMCS) based in Maidstone, will retire in July.

“I feel like I have reached a stage in my life where I would like more time off than the usual four weeks of annual leave,” she said. “I am excited to explore other options in terms of lifestyle and interests.”

With an impressive resume, Ms Drozd found it difficult to pinpoint one highlight of her career.

Recalling memories of her time on Brimbank council and her long career at the AMCS, she has loved it all as a proud westie.

“I have always worked in the western region of Melbourne, which is also where I live in the city of Maribyrnong,” she said.

“For me there have been quite a few highlights, I could probably list 10 or 20 events.

“But what really comes to mind first and foremost is the practical assistance that I have provided directly to individuals, families, communities and organisations.”

Ms Drozd said she is also very proud and pleased with the employment opportunities that AMCS have offered to trans people of immigrant backgrounds.

For Ms Drozd this retirement is a bittersweet experience, although she is confident it is the right move.

“On one hand it was a very tough decision which I knew would come, I had decided I would do it this year,” she said.

“I will certainly miss the people I work with, we spend most of our daytime hours with colleagues and I love the multicultural

Elizabeth Drozd. (Supplied)

character of the workforce.

“However, everything in life changes, it was a big decision but I am very comfortable with it.”

With no hard and fast plans for her retirement , Ms Drozd said the next year will involve 12 months off.

“I don’t want to make any commitments but also take this time to look at what I want to do,” she said.

“The Japanese have a term Ikigai, which translates to something that gives a person a sense of purpose, a reason for living.”

Maribyrnong Crime Investigation Unit detectives are appealing for witnesses following two thefts and a burglary in the Carlton, Box Hill and Maribyrnong areas last year.

Investigators have been told a white Toyota Hiace was stolen from outside an address on Bouverie Street, Carlton, about 10.10pm on 23 April.

It is believed an unknown man attended a petrol station on Elgar Road, Box Hill in the stolen vehicle about 7.10am the next day.

Officers believe the man filled up the stolen Toyota van with $48 worth of petrol, before entering the store. He then selected numerous items, before driving off without attempting to pay.

As he was driving away, the store’s attendant chased after the vehicle but was unable to stop the thief.

The next day, on 25 April, the same man entered a shopping centre on Maribyrnong Road, where he stole an Optus Wi-Fi router and a large battery from a pop-up store.

The offender is perceived as being Caucasian in appearance, medium build, about 180cm tall, with black hair and in his late twenties.

He was wearing a T-shirt with a yellow circular emblem, blue jeans, black cap, black mask and had a black satchel.

Anyone who witnessed the incident or has information can contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at crimestoppersvic.com.au

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Standing for Freedom, Fair Laws & Family

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Wednesday, 14 February, 2024 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 11

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Speaking the language of love Red roses, dinner dates and fancy chocolate are on the cards for Australians across the country this week. Whether you celebrate Valentine’s Day or not, there’s always time to pause and hear the stories of couples young and old, as Zoe Moffatt discovers.

B

eneath the trickle of rain drops at the Lightscape show in the Royal Botanic Gardens, Hoppers Crossing resident Tom Mahfoud, 28, knelt down on one knee.

His chosen destination, a section in the light show called the chapel, was a big shutter light arrangement.

With clammy hands and a passerby poised with his phone to capture the moment, Tom popped the question to his partner of five years, Alexandra Murray, 26.

“I was absolutely nervous,” Tom said, reminiscing on the proposal. “She just made a few [comments, like] it’s so nice here, look how beautiful it is. Your heart’s in your throat at that point… I was a bit clammy.”

The resounding yes from Alexandra kicked off their engagement, and the beginning of their journey to getting married.

For Tom, he said the realisation that he wanted to marry Alexandra hit when they started to live together. This feeling grew as the years stretched on, and as their lives became entangled with two dogs.

“Everything kind of hit me in the fourth year, and I thought this is, you know, this is definitely forever,” he said.

“You can’t see life without them.”

For the couple, Valentine’s Day is one they look forward to and celebrate each year.

Amongst their busy schedules it’s an important reminder to come together.

‘‘

Find out what someone’s love language is. Finding that out pretty early on helps to build a really strong relationship - Tom Mahfoud

’’

“There’s a lot of times we don’t get to see each other for a whole heap after work,” he said.

“So these kinds of moments, birthdays, anniversaries and Valentine’s Day are a good way for us to put aside some time for each other and just kick your feet off, enjoy and relax.”

This year’s agenda includes a trip to a new Italian restaurant nearby, a walk on the new Altona Pier, some gelato and dipping their feet in the water, if Melbourne’s weather permits.

For anyone who doesn’t have a Valentine’s Day filled with pasta, ice cream and moonlight walks, Tom said his top dating tip is communication and to trust your gut.

“If you know things are right, generally it’ll be pretty obvious and [it’s important to keep] talking and understanding what the other side wants, loves and needs.

“Find out what someone’s love language is.

Finding that out pretty early on helps to build a really strong relationship and it’s definitely built our relationship pretty strong.”

Almost 100 kilometres away in Whittlesea, Norma and Ray Hislop sit down to chat about their 75 years of marriage.

The 96 and 98-year-olds don’t celebrate Valentine’s Day, but instead talk fondly about attending weekend dances and going to the pictures.

The world was a different place more than eight decades ago when they met, but in answering questions there are striking similarities between the two couples. “[It’s about] give and take, see the other person’s point of view, appreciate their value and don’t forget to tell them,” Ray said.

Meeting as young teenagers in the inner city suburb of Carlton, Norma was friends with Ray’s sister Betty, and was in church the first time she laid eyes on him.

“His sister was sitting there with me in this church and I saw him in the doorway,” Norma said.

It was this friendship with his sister that brought Norma to their house most Friday nights.

Main: Raymond and Norma Hislop have been married for 75 years. (Damjan Janevski) 386224_03 Left: Tom Mahfoud and his fiancé Alexandra Murray.

(Supplied) Right: Thanks A Bunch Florists Sophie Marasco and her daughter Vanessa. (Damjan Janevski) 387289_01

“A lot of people used to come, it was a lovely friendly night.

“There was no drink or anything like that.

[Someone was] playing a piano and someone singing, and then someone cooking crumpets in the kitchen.”

Norma said she lived around the corner from Ray’s house, near some mutual friends and they would walk her home each week.

“Just out of the blue one Friday, we’re getting ready to go and Ray said no, I’ll walk her home.

“I’d been thinking that this brother of Betty’s was quite nice looking and then I thought ‘oh how nice’.”

From this wholesome beginning Norma and Ray’s relationship developed throughout the years and the couple got engaged when Norma was 19 and Ray was 21.

“My girlfriend got engaged and I said, well, we want to get engaged [but] he wanted to wait,” Norma said.

After a two year engagement, the couple got married on January 16, 1949. Looking back on their 75 years of marriage, Norma said they are a very lucky couple.

“I mean, we are very lucky to be the age we are and look back on 75 years,” she said.

12 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 14 February, 2024

“When we look at all of the things we did, we are very very lucky to have these lovely children.

Our family is so supportive and they are happily married with their wives and husbands.”

Clocking up a total of five children, 11 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.

Norma and Ray’s life wasn’t without times of struggle.

Their fourth child died at 11 months and in their early years together Ray spent a few years in the Air Force where they correspond via letters.

“I think we never we never aspired beyond our means,” Ray said.

“And the early days we worked together to just bring up a family and we were quite happy to plod along.

“I had a fairly steady job and Norma was a great housewife and anything she took on she did it properly. She didn’t muck around.”

Moving about 20 kilometres south west of Whittlesea, Epping florist Sophie Marasco who owns and operates Thanks A Bunch Florist with her daughter is getting ready for one of their busiest days in the year, along with Mother’s Day. “I’ve always loved gardens and flowers and

putting flowers together, I love the creative side,” she said. “Valentine’s Day is easier because you know it’s predominantly red roses.

“I don’t think I’m one of the bigger [florists] and I’ve ordered about 2000 red roses, but we’ve got flowers and presents coming as well.”

Sophie said there was a long line last year and extra hands on deck to spread the Valentine’s Day love.

“There normally is about four to five of us and then we have four to five delivery drivers [for the day]. It’s a mother and daughter duo otherwise.

“Last year we ran out of flowers, it was past 6pm and there was a guy who [got the last] single flower [from the fridge].

“He said if I don’t go home with something I’m going to be in the dog house.”

With about 365 days until the next Valentine’s Day rolls around, Hobsons Bay council is offering to help all the single residents out there.

There’s no doubt we’ve all been on a few rubbish dates but council is looking to flip the switch and is offering speed dating coupled with clean-up events throughout February.

Who can say no to multitasking.

Details: https://shorturl.at/imnv5

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

NEWS

The Sons of the West turn 10 The Western Bulldogs Community Foundation has celebrated 10 years of its leading Sons of the West (SOTW) health and wellbeing program and its now taking registrations for 2024.

SOTW is a free 10-week program facilitated by the foundation in partnership with local councils and community health services across Victoria.

The program is aimed at men aged 18 and above, and strives to empower men to make their health and wellbeing a priority by giving them the tools and knowledge.

To celebrate the decade long milestone,

Western Bulldogs Community Foundation hosted a celebration on Wednesday, February 7, at at Whitten Oval.

The day was filled with questions and commentary from AFL players, activities throughout the day which included participants and players talking and exercising in the gym.

Since its inception, over 5000 men have been inspired and educated, with the program delivered across 27 suburbs in the West including Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay. Bulldogs chief executive Ameet Bains said

program has significant benefits for physical health, mental health and a real sense of connection and belonging to those who participate.

“In 2014, alarming stats revealed that men in the west of Melbourne had some of the poorest levels of health across Victoria. This footy club prides itself on being representative of its community, and so through the Community Foundation, it established Sons of the West.“ Brett Patriekos said participating in SOTW was one of the best decisions he’s ever made.

“I really enjoyed the program – what it

taught us around being men in today’s society and the role that we play was a key take away,” he said.

“The exercise routines were great … and just the comradery, and learning more about community really made it a great program” Bulldogs player Buku Khamis said being involved in the program has in turn had a positive impact on his footy.

“I’ve learnt how important it is to open up about your mental health – we all suffer at times, especially as men. Overall, it’s a great way to interact as well.”

Support for youth sport At its annual awards night the Sunshine Western Region Sports Club announced a $20,000 initiative for young athletes in Melbourne’s west.

All 10 of its monthly Don Deeble winners were awarded a $2000 travel voucher thanks to the Deer Park Club’s support of the SWRSC. The money will cover the cost when the athlete is travelling overseas or interstate for their sporting commitments, each year.

The Yarraville Club Cricket Club had been the major sponsor of the Don Deeble Award for nearly 20 years, which has allowed the club to donate more than $20,000 a year to its athletes.

SWRSC president Barry Watson said the vouchers line up with the club’s mission statement, which is ‘to recognise and financially assist young people in the western suburbs with their chosen sport.’

“Some of our monthly Don Deeble winners are travelling to Thailand, China, USA, Bosnia

and England to compete in tournaments,“ he said.

“Their parents are working hard to cover those costs.”

Deer Park Club vice president Steve Davey said on behalf of the club they were delighted to provide this support.

“We are so proud to be associated with such talented young individuals and right at this time we are in a position as a club to support them,” he said.

The additional support from the Deer Park Club takes the annual sponsorship for the sport club’s athletes to more than $50,000.

The sports club meets on the last Wednesday each month at the Medway Golf Club for a dinner to recognise that month’s award recipient.

Jacob Cassar won the overall Deeble award for 2023.

Limited vacancies 0-2 years Free funded kindergarten for 3 and 4 year olds 2024 kingsville@communitychildren.com.au https://www.communitychildren.com.au/register/register-kingsville/

Community Children - Kingsville 82-96 New Street, South Kingsville VIC 3015

(03) 9088 7099 12657001-AI03-24

Wednesday, 14 February, 2024 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 13

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Eagles fly in to train Members of the South Korean professional baseball team the Hanwa Eagles have made themselves at home in Altona as part of their spring training pre-season program.

For three weeks, the Hanwa Eagles will be training at the Melbourne Ballpark in Altona Meadows, before finishing off their stint away from home against the Australian baseball team.

It will be the first time the national men’s team has played in Melbourne since 2017 .

Melbourne Aces general manager Justin Huber said it has been amazing watching the

South Koreans going through their paces.

“It reminds me of when I was a part of the MLB in my playing days. The professionalism of the Hanwa Eagles in everything they do is military like,“ he said.

“Nothing is left to chance. It will be a fantastic opportunity for the baseball fans of Melbourne to see them in action when they take on the Australian team made up of Big-League players and guys who are playing well in the minors.”

Tickets are still available for the two games which will be played on February 17 and 18.

Professional Korean Baseball players from the Hanwha Eagles of the Korean Baseball Organisation make themselves at home in Altona. (Pictures: Jacob Pattison) 387680

Toddlers get jamming for fun Toddler Jam is back at Footscray Community Arts, a class and performance space for families and little ones aged 1-5.

The weekly class is presented by local resident and teacher Sarah Ward, who said Toddler Jam is one big party.

“It is a rock ‘n’ roll party for toddlers where they play with rhythm, movement, song and

dance,“ she said.

“A space to make friends and interact, learn some words in Auslan and time for group relaxation.”

In this class toddlers and preschoolers are invited to join in the fun, singing, dancing, and expressing themselves through play.

Addy, 18 months old, was one of the youngest participants. (Damjan Janevski) 385300_06

Teacher Sarah Ward leads the jam. 385300_04

Sunday (2) was among the youngsters having fun. 385300

Stirling (3) reaches high with Sarah Ward.

385300

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14 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 14 February, 2024

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SECTION

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Close to vibrant shopping strips, schools, transport facilities, and with spectacular views over Flemington racecourse – it’s a great buy with your name waiting to claim it. Common areas include, pool, gym, bbq areas, function areas, games room, and spectacular views across Melbourne.

Terms 10% deposit on signing, balance 30 days.

Auction: Saturday 2nd March at 11am Price:

Contact agent

Inspect: Saturday 12:30pm to 1:00pm Contact: Terry Cooper 0411 852 508 Footscray 9689 6011 1

1

1

WANTED – houses for sale Contact John Verduci or Terry Cooper.

With over 80 years of combined real estate experience, you need sound and expert advice when it comes to selling your most valuable asset.

Te Experienced in selling all types of property, John has a thorough understanding of client’s needs and specialises in new developments and construction.

He is also involved in property development and construction and is able to provide valuable advice to clients in the same industry.

An expert in sales and fully licensed since 2002, John gives nothing less than 100%, whether it is a small one-bedroom flat in Sunshine or a three-storey office building in Footscray.

Cross cultural links are vital for business in such an ethnically diverse area. John believes the values he has from his Italian background are similar to those of many other cultures. From them he understands the need for confidentiality, respect and trust as the basis for business and friendships.

Results and experience aren’t only measured in dollars, but it’s hard to go past the $130million worth of property John has brought to the business since starting his career back in 1991.

With over fifty years in the real estate game, Terry Cooper’s level of knowledge and experience is almost unmatched in Melbourne. A lifelong “people person”, Terry has the gift of the gab and considers it an honour to meet and assist people from all backgrounds and walks of life.

As much as he loves a good chat, Terry is also an excellent listener, something he says is indispensable when it comes to looking after clients. “You can’t sell people’s property if you don’t listen,” says Terry, and his clients come to him knowing that he’s going to keep their needs and wants front of mind.

His local knowledge is another distinct advantage. Terry has worked in Footscray for his entire career, bar two years, so it’s safe to say he knows the area like the back of his hand. No matter how long he’s been doing it, Terry is always stri ving to do better in his work — to net a bigger sale, exceed customer service expectations and make the buying and selling experience a pleasure for all involved.

25 145-147 GEELONG ROAD FOOTSCRAY 9689 6011

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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

Everyday English language course For women of all ages and backgrounds with English as a second language. Practice speaking English in different situations, and make new friends! Fridays 10am-12pm.

■ 9391 8504, email outlets@outletsco-op. com.au or visit us at 43 Mason Street, Newport.

Farmers and Craft Market A community farmers and craft market is held at Beaton Reserve on the 3rd Saturday of each month. The next market date is February 17. A gold coin is collected on entry.

■ Eileen, 0412 910 496

Laverton Community Choir The choir is currently welcoming new members – especially male voices. If you love singing and would like to be part of a choir – come along and try out your vocal cords with our fun and welcoming group of singers. There are no auditionsand you don’t need to be able to read music. The group meets on Thursday evenings during school terms at Laverton P12 College, 91 Bladin Street, Laverton from 7-9pm.

■ Sue, 0418 386 147 or lavertoncommunitychoir@gmail.com

Dementia Alliance Forum The Hobsons Bay Dementia Soaring Falcons Alliance is hosting its first free Dementia-Friendly Forum. Attendees can come to increase understanding and inclusion, learn about dementia, gain practical tips, speak to those with experience and build a plan to make things better. It will be held on Friday, March 15 from 10am to 12pm at the Civic Centre Altona, followed by a free morning tea.

■ 0432 161 777

Golf Day The Young Achievers Foundation Inc are hosting a golf day at the Sanctuary Lakes Golf Club on Friday 15 March, 2024.

You can book as an individual player and the Foundation will put you in a team of 4, or gather your friends to make your own 4-ball. The day will finish with dinner, entertainment, auctions and raffles. The cost is $150 per person and golf carts may be available for an additional $50 (2 golfers per cart).

■ Sam: 0438 423 425 or yaf3030@gmail.com

Kangatraining Kangatraining workouts include both cardiovascular endurance/flexibility and muscular capacity/strength training.

Babies are worn on mums during the class designed for mums to meet mums. Run weekly on Thursday’s until March 21, from 10-11am at the Maribyrnong Community Centre 9 Randall St Maribyrnong.

Cost: $10/ session; $6 concession ■ 90324305 or maricomm@maribyrnong.vic.gov.au

Classic Car and Bike Show Lots of exciting things are happening at our 11th Annual Classic Car and Bike Show, scheduled to be held on February 25 Apex Park, Altona. There will be the usual collection of Wonderful Cars and Bikes, there is Coffee, Drinks, Sausage Sizzle plus the Cheer ‘Toastie’ van. There will also be Face Painting as well as two bands providing non-stop music throughout the day. There will also be several Trade Stands of various interests ■ Lou Artz, 0417 531 670

Open Water Challenge The biggest and most anticipated Williamstown Open Water Challenge, WOW 2024, is on March 3. There are a number

This week’s photographer’s choice is Street dance crew Kihmo Quintela and Giuliano Hammal. (Damjan Janevski) 386998_01

of different swims from 1.2 kilometres up to 10 kilometres. The Williamstown Living Saving Club has been hosting the event for the past 31 years and it’s a favouriteof the Great Ocean Swim Series in Victoria.

Diabetes support group

their community.

The Westgate Diabetes Support Group meets on the first Tuesday of every month at the Altona Bowling Club at 10am.

■ Elaine, 0415 030 996

■ www.rotarypointgellibrand.com.au,

West Footscray Rotary AeroSpeakers Toastmasters Club

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 every day of the week. Choice of morning or afternoons.

At Altona North and 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

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

■ Lesley, 0414 481 442

Friendship group Altona Day Voice Interest and Education of Women [VIEW] Club meets at 11am on the third Wednesday of the month at Altona RSL. ■ Janet, 9394 6522 or 0412 010 176

16 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 14 February, 2024

Pam, 0418 347 691, or rotarypointgellibrand@gmail.com

Would you like to develop confidence in communicating, competence with language and clarity in writing? AeroSpeakers Toastmasters Club would like to invite any and all residents to join them on the first and third Thursday of every month to help develop public speaking, communication and leadership skills. The group meets at the Laverton Community Hub, 95-105 Railway Avenue, Laverton from 7-9.30pm.

■ Vimi Gaoneadry, 0411 530 944

The Rotary Club of West Footscray meets at the Medway Golf Club in Maidstone for lunch, fellowship and guest speakers each Wednesday from 12.30-2pm.

■ Mike, 0417 622 372

Altona Day View Club The Altona Day View Club meets on the third Wednesday each Month at 11am, at the Altona RSL 31 Sargood Street, Altona.

■ Marion, 9394 6557

Woodcarving workshop The Louis Joel Arts and Community Centre presents MonArt, workshops for people of all abilities facilitated by community art specialist Amanda Neville, Mondays 10-11.30am. Cost is $5 casual fee.

■ admin@ljac.com.au, or 9398 2511

The woodcarving workshop meets on Tuesdays at 9.30am-noon at Hobsons Bay Men’s Shed, 280 Queens Street, Altona. All levels of ability in this ancient, international craft are welcome, women included, starter tools and timber available.

■ jah2802rot@gmail.com

Cherry Lake Market

Laverton Community Choir

Set between Millers Road and the stunning Cherry Lake in Altona, this market has something for everyone. The market hosts more than 60 stalls, selling plants, bric-a-brac, handcrafts, hot jam donuts, tools, clothing and much more. There is live music every month from the Cherry Lake Cultural Series, showcasing local musicians from across Hobsons Bay. From 9am-1pm on the first Sunday of every month.

■ www.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/Community/ Whats-On/Altona or cherrylakemarket@ gmail.com

Laverton Community Choir will recommence on Thursday, February 1 for the year. New members who would enjoy singing in a friendly group are welcome. No experience necessary and no auditions. The choir meets on Thursday evenings during school term from 7-9pm at Laverton P12 College (enter via gate 1,) 91 Bladin Street, Laverton.

■ Sue, 0418 386 147

Art workshops

Musicians welcome Do you play trumpet, flute or lower brass instruments? The Hobsons Bay City Band is seeking musicians to join its community band. Rehearsals are held under the directorship of Wayne Bowden OAM every Monday evening from 7.30pm at the Newport Bowls Club, 4 Market Street, Newport.

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

Form Support New and free at Williamstown Community and Education Centre. Need help filling in forms? Passport applications, Centrelink forms, housing assistance, medical, service provision, etc.

■ Lara, 9397 6168

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

Alcoholics Anonymous Point Gellibrand Rotary Club Rotary Club of Point Gellibrand meets at Customs House Hotel, 161 Nelson Place, Williamstown, on the first and third Tuesday of the month from 6pm for a dinner meeting. The club has some great speakers and needs new, energetic, enthusiastic members who want to make a difference in

Regular meetings of Alcoholics Anonymous are held at St Andrew’s Church Hall, Williamstown, Wednesday at 7pm and Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Newport, Thursday 6.30pm and Saturday 8.30am.

All welcome including friends and family of people with drinking problems.

■ 1300 22 22 22, or www.aatimes.org.au

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

3

1 4 6 1

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

4 7 3 5

6 7

6 9 3

1 9 2 4

ACROSS

DOWN

Chic (6) Structure in C programming language (6) Cad (5) Accept reluctantly (9) Russian guitar-like instrument (9) Gods (5) Middle (6) Scheme (4) Pig meat (4) Uniform (6) Beautiful maiden in Muslim paradise (5) Putting others need above their own (9) Heights (9) Seabird excrement (5) Guarantee (6) Rests (6)

1 4 10 11 12 13 14 15 19 20 24 25 27 28 29 30

No. 172

Sexual abstinence (8) Nose like a beak (8) Relating to the stars (7) Coaching (7) Result (6) Blood-sucking African fly (6) Hire-car (4) Even-tempered (7) Reasons (7) Inscribe to (8) Tropical storms (8) Hint (7) Against the law (7) Group of words (6) Fancy hotel rooms (6) Waistband (4)

1 2 3 5 6 7 8 9 16 17 18 19 21 22 23 26

DECODER

No. 172

4 2 1 7

9

2

QUICK CROSSWORD

6 8

1 8

7

8

5 9 4 hard

9 8

1 6 7 8 4 1 8

9

8 7 2

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10 11 12 13

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

F V T P ZW DM L H X K F B 23

24

25

26

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

Today’s Aim: 14 words: Good 21 words: Very good

T

P

I

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

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

A

No. 172 Insert the missing letters to make 10 words – five reading across the grid and five reading down.

E E P

O R N E

B

S P A T S W I D O W A L O N E

P

' , 7 + ( 5 ( '

AFOOT ALIEN ALONE ANGEL ATLAS AVAIL CARAT CARGO CHEAP CITED COLON CORDS DEALT DEEDS EDGER EERIE EGGED ICONS IMPLY LAGER LEERY LODGE

4 LETTERS AGES ALLY CASE CASK DEEP IDLE MESH PARE POOR RUSE SLEW STEP TOUR YENS 5 LETTERS ADAGE ADORE

QUICK QUIZ

MANOR NAIVE OCEAN PALED PEEVE POETS PROSE PURRS RAISE RESTS ROGUE ROUGE ROUSE SAUTE SLEET SLIDE SMALL STEEP STONY STREW SWAPS TACOS

1

Which prime minister committed Australia to the Vietnam War?

2

Is a rhea a bird, a flower or a type of scarf?

3

Amy Poehler (pictured) starred as mid-level, small town bureaucrat Leslie Knope in which US sitcom?

4

Which Australian-British author created the character Mary Poppins?

5

Is croup typically experienced by children or the elderly?

6

Referring to the explosive, TNT is an abbreviation of what?

NOTE: more than one solution may be possible

T

N

L

No. 172

TAPES TEETH TENET TERSE

SOLDIER TEAPOTS TOILETS

6 LETTERS EASELS RASCAL SEDATE SENATE

8 LETTERS DESOLATE DISPLACE DITHERED ENDORSED

7 LETTERS DOLLIES GENTILE RAUCOUS

16-02-24

S

E

Y

C

alacrity, apical, atypic, atypical, capita, capital, carat, carl, carp, carpal, cart, city, clap, clarity, clay, clip, crypt, lacy, laic, lyric, pact, PARALYTIC, pica, piracy, racial, racy, rapacity, talc, typical

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

O

3 LETTERS ALE ASH ASK ATE EAT EGO EVE GEL HIM ILL IRE LIE MRS ORE OUR OVA SAT SEA SEE SUE UFO VAT WED YES

1

S O

E

22

S

21

A

O

A

R

Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

A

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”.

29 words: Excellent

hard

I

20

medium

S

19

9-LETTER WORD

easy

5x5

18

1 4

3

17

9

16

3 2

15

A GU J R IOQN S E Y C

4

2

14

7 9 9 8 2

B

WORDFIT

7

Who played Sheldon Cooper on The Big Bang Theory?

8

In the board game Risk, which continent is worth the most?

9

The classic children’s character Paddington Bear was said to be a migrant from what country?

10 What is put inside a chicken breast to create the dish chicken kiev?

ANSWERS: 1. Robert Menzies 2. A bird 3. Parks and Recreation 4. P. L. Travers 5. Children 6. Trinitrotoluene 7. Jim Parsons 8. Asia 9. Peru 10. Garlic and butter

No. 172

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SUDOKU

Wednesday, 14 February, 2024 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 17

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SPORTS QUIZ 1. Jakara Anthony won a gold medal for which sport at the 2022 Olympic Winter Games?

2. Which three players have defeated Daniil Medvedev in an Australian Open final?

3. In February, which stadium will host the first WWE event in Australia since 2018?

11. A napkin used by which soccer superstar will be auctioned off in March?

4. Battledore was an early forerunner of which modern game?

12. Matildas coach Tony Gustavsson is from which country?

5. Sydney Swans coach John Longmire played for which VFL/AFL club from 1988-99?

13. Which cricketer won the 2024 Allan Border Medal?

Tony Gustavsson

6. Is a cricket ball or baseball larger?

14. And which cricketer the 2024 Belinda Clark Medal?

7. British athlete Sky Brown is the youngest professional in the world in which sport?

15. In what year was the NRL’s Dally M Medal first awarded?

20.How many times has an Asian country hosted the Summer Olympic Games?

16. The Iron Claw is a 2023 biographical movie about a family involved in which sport?

21. In what year did the Australian Baseball League begin?

17. In what year did Mike Tyson have his last professional fight?

22.Which former WWE wrestler had their acting debut in the movie The Marine?

8. A badminton player must be the first to score how many points, with a two-point lead, in order to win?

9. The 2005 film The Greatest Game Ever Played centres on which sport?

10. Which AFLW club does Darcy Vescio play for?

Mike Tyson

18. Jürgen Klopp is the outgoing manager of which English Premier league club?

23.Tennis player Dylan Alcott recently appeared on which Stan TV show?

19. How many teams will compete for the 2024 Formula One World Championship?

24.Who is the current coach of the GWS Giants AFL team?

25.The term ‘deke’ is most commonly used in which sport?

26.And what does it mean?

27. How many NBL championships does Melbourne United have?

28.MLB team the Tampa Bay Rays were previously known as what?

29. How many years are there in between each Ashes series?

30.Former footballer Dani Laidley played for which two AFL clubs?

1602

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The Camry Hybrid is a class act

By Chris Riley Before discussing the Camry Hybrid, it should be pointed out that you can’t actually buy one right now.

With a two-year waiting list due to production delays, Toyota Australia has been forced to “pause“ orders for Camry hybrid variants due to extraordinary demand.

A new ninth generation Camry was unveiled in the United States in November, so it will be interesting to see how Toyota plays this one.

At some point it will have to switch from production of the current model to the new one.

Toyota reveals 90 per cent of Camry sales are now the hybrid. This may result in a different specification and/or different price point at the time of delivery.

Styling Sitting long and low, the current model was face-lifted in early 2021, at which point the hybrid became an option for all four grades.

The face-lifted model features stronger front-end styling and enhanced safety features, including Toyota Connected Services.

Externally, the entry-level Ascent has undergone an extensive transformation at the front end with redesigned bumper and upper and lower grille that features distinctive horizontal bars that offer a more refined aesthetic.

Ascent Sport, SX and SL grades received wide flared side fins and a lower spoiler that stretches the width of the car, giving it a wide planted stance while the honeycomb grille mesh adds to its sporty flair.

New design wheels ranging from 17- to 19-inch in size were also introduced, SX featuring a black sports finish Prices for Camry kick off at $30,990 for the 2.5-litre petrol Ascent. The Ascent Hybrid is $2500 more at $33,490. Ascent Sport Hybrid is $36,290, SX Hybrid is $39,190 and SL Hybrid is $46,990 – all before on-road costs.

Eight bold colours are available, while premium paint adds $575.

Our test vehicle was the well-equipped, top of the line SX finished in blue mica metallic, which at $46,990 represents excellent value for money.

Entry level Ascent comes with alloy wheels, cloth trim and manual air conditioning, LED lights, with keyless smart entry and start plus two-zone climate control for hybrid models.

Ascent Sport gains satellite navigation, while the sporty SX scores sports front seats, 19-inch alloys, sports suspension, paddle shifters and leather-accented trim.

SL features heated and cooled front seats, power adjustment for the driver and front passenger seat, with memory and power lumbar adjustment for the driver, electric boot opening, auto-dimming rear-view mirror and a panoramic sunroof.

There’s also adaptive cruise control, auto high beam, LED daytime lights, auto lights and wipers, and front and rear parking sensors.

A redesigned centre console incorporates a larger standalone 9.0-inch touchscreen that now sits higher above the air vents for easier access and better visibility.

SL adds head-up display which projects information on the lower area of the windscreen.

Camry is covered by the five-year warranty, with capped-price servicing for the first five years/75,000km with each 12-month/15,000km service costing $220.

Infotainment All models feature the latest generation multimedia system with AM/FM and DAB+ radio, Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay (wireless) and Android Auto (wired) compatibility and myToyota apps including Waze and Stitcher (IOS) and WebEx (Android).

Ascent Sport adds satellite navigation with enhanced voice recognition with the SL model delivering superb sound reproduction through a nine-speaker premium JBL audio system.

AT A GLANCE MODEL RANGE Camry Ascent: $34,320 Camry Ascent Hybrid: $36,820 Camry Ascent Sport Hybrid: $39,620 Camry SX Hybrid: $43,020 Camry SL Hybrid: $50,320 SPECIFICATIONS Toyota Camry SL 2.5-litre hybrid petrol-electric four-door sedan

Access to Toyota Connected Services is complimentary for three years.

There are two USB-C charge ports in the rear and a USB-A port in the front console as well as a 12V/120W power accessory socket.

Engines / transmissions The 160kW 2.5-litre hybrid powertrain is now offered across the range and accounts for 90 per cent of sales.

The hybrid system employs a 2.5-litre four-cylinder Atkinson cycle petrol engine that works in seamless combination with a pair of electric motor generators.

Torque is rated as 221Nm which is oddly slightly less than the figure provided for the petrol engine on its own.

Petrol Ascent has a conventional eight-speed conventional auto, while the hybrid is equipped with a CVT-style continuously variable automatic.

Safety Camry receives a five-star safety rating but that rating which dates back to 2017 is due to expire in December this year.

Dual frontal, side chest, side head-protecting (curtain) and driver knee airbags are standard.

Autonomous emergency braking (AEB) with pedestrian and daylight cyclist detection and a lane keep assist (LKA) system with lane departure warning (LDW), plus Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert are also standard.

The Toyota Safety Sense suite of safety systems has been enhanced with the addition of road sign assist, emergency steering assist, lane trace assist and intersection turn assist on every model.

Connected services can automatically call a 24/7 Toyota Emergency Call Centre and relay the location of the vehicle in the event of a collision that requires intervention, or if an airbag deploys.

The driver is also able to request emergency assistance via an SOS button on the overhead console and if the vehicle is reported stolen.

It can assist authorities to help track the vehicle’s location via the Stolen Vehicle Tracking (SVT) service.

20 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 14 February, 2024

Driving The combination of the petrol engine and two motor generators delivers seamless, linear power delivery through an electronic continuously variable transmission.

There are Eco, Normal and Sport modes, while manual sequential shifting is provided via the shift lever or through paddle shifters on the premium SL and sports SX models.

The hybrid system requires no user intervention.

It works just like a conventional car and does not require charging from a power outlet compared with an EV or plug-in hybrid.

It is a self-charging system that draws power from the brakes, when the car is travelling downhill or in stop-start city driving.

It’s a well-proven system that delivers significantly less fuel consumption.

With a 50-litre fuel tank, fuel use for the SL is a claimed 4.5L/100km and it takes premium 95 unleaded, but is E10 compatible.

We were punching out a consistent 5.2L/100km on a 2100km return trip between Sydney and Brisbane.

To put this in perspective the petrol model uses 6.8L/100km -- which is also a very good figure.

Interestingly, our SL rides on 18-inch wheels, while the sporty SX gets larger 19s. This is because the ride is fairly firm to start with, so the 18-inch wheels are likely to produce a plusher ride in the luxury model. You could always option it with 19s if this is an issue.

Entry Ascent is the only grade that comes with a full-size spare wheel. The others get a space saver (but more boot space as a result).

As has long been the case with Toyota hybrids, push the start button and nothing appears to happen.

The petrol engine remains dormant but the dash comes to life indicating the system is ready.

The engine kicks in once speed exceeds 20km/h, even when EV mode is evoked.

The system switches automatically between hybrid and electric mode as driving conditions demand.

Scrolling through the driver information display shows the direction of energy. That

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

is when the electric motor and/or the petrol engine is operating, and when power is being fed to the front wheels and battery.

Out on the highway Camry hybrid is almost silent, with the dash showing an EV symbol occasionally as it seamlessly cuts in and out, supporting or being charged by the petrol engine.

Most of the background noise comes from the 235/45 profile Bridgestone Turanza tyres, which says something about the refinement of the hybrid package.

Alas you can’t get a V6 anymore and to be frank we miss the punch of a six, but you’re not buying the Hybrid for its performance -- you’re buying it for economy.

Sport mode helps . . . a little.

Camry is generally an easy relaxing car to drive, with light steering and surprisingly little tug from the lane assist system, but plenty of annoying chimes.

It goes where you point it and stops, rather abruptly in fact if you hit the brakes too firmly.

The ride can be harsh at times depending on the road surface, but it’s not a deal breaker.

Although if you frequent Sydney’s Parramatta Road you might think otherwise.

Adaptive cruise control works well and generally retains the desired speed, but was troubled by a series of small up-and-down hills.

It accelerated to accommodate the rise, but failed to adjust quickly enough on the descent, exceeding the set speed by several kilometres per hour.

The SatNav can also be slow to respond.

The boot is large and deep with a 524-litre capacity in the hybrid.

Summing up The fact there is a two-year waiting list and that Toyota had been forced to cancel further orders for Camry Hybrid speaks bucket loads.

Despite the demise of the Falcon and Commodore, it proves there’s still room for traditional family sedans, and it shows this must be a good one.

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

SPORT

Brookers building ahead of Good Friday opener After a tough introduction to the Western Region Football League division 2 last season, Braybrook says lessons have been learnt as it looks to pass the wooden spoon on.

Coach Geoff Maddern said it’s been a strong off-season at the club, with plenty of players coming on board, and a step up from the crop that has hung around.

“It’s going really well, we started nice and early and we’ve had great attendances all the way through so we’ve been really happy with that,” he said.

“What I’ve been really excited about is the intensity and effort put in by the fellas from last year in the leadership group, that’s been incredible.

“The new guys to the footy club have been terrific too. Ricky Cameron has been on the track every night and has been fantastic.

Matty and Justin Condo catch the eye, it’s been terrific.”

Cameron and the Condo brothers are three of 13 players that have been announced as new Brookers for 2024.

Last year the club won just one game, but

Braybrook. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 353178_18

with all division 3 clubs joining the Brookers next season, it is set to be an interesting season ahead.

“It’s a strange one isn’t it,” Maddern said.

“I don’t think anyone saw it panning out the way that it actually did until right at the last minute.

“I think everyone is going into division 2

this year with their eyes wide open that there’s a couple of sides at the top that are going to be very hard to beat. We expect great competitive footy right across the board.

“It helps for our guys to have been up at that level and had a bit of a go against the really accomplished sides and taught us a bit of a lesson for a lot of last year and lessons learnt.

Wizards get a vital win

Briefs VSDCA Spotswood is through to the final of the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association T20 competition. The Woodsmen faced Mt Waverley in a semi final last Tuesday night, with the Woodsmen hitting the winning runs in the final over. Mt Waverley made 8-130 from its 20 overs, with the Woodsmen finishing 4-131 in reply.

Jarrod Martignago top scored with 60. The Woodsmen were due to play Ivanhoe in the grand final on Tuesday night, after deadline.

By Tara Murray The Druids got a vital win in the race to avoid relegation in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association senior division.

After falling to bottom after the last round with Craigieburn getting an outright win, the pressure was back on the Wizards to get at least one win in the run home.

It took just the first of the last three matches to move back off the bottom, with victory against Sunshine United on weekend.

Co-coach Andrew Brennan said it was a vital win for the side.

“It was a fantastic win for the club, it was one that we needed,” he said. “It’s very tight towards the bottom of the adder.

“We need another win or two to make sure that we avoid relegation.”

The Wizards batted first on a good pitch and managed to make 9-258 from their 80 overs.

Jarrod Parsons top scored with 50, while Charith Mendis and Asela Aluthge also made half centuries.

Brennan said the form of Parsons had been a big positive this season.

“On top of his excellent season with the ball, he made 60 for us on the weekend after making 46 the week before,” he said.

“He’s a three dimensional cricketer. He can bowl in the first 10 overs and then in the 70th over to finish the game off for us.

“He’s still in his early 20s and still has a lot of cricket ahead of him.”

Brennan said they thought that total was about par on the ground The Wizards got on top early on, before the Tigers tail wagged. Eventually the Wizards bowled them out for 203.

Mendis was the pick of the bowlers, taking his first five wicket haul for the club, finishing with 6-74.

Brennan said there were a few nervous moments.

‘They are a very competitive side,” he said.

“It got nervous towards the end of the game, they didn’t throw in the towel.

“There were a few thoughts that they were getting too close for comfort but we were able to take a couple of wickets.”

The Druids are now on 18 points equal with Sunshine United and two points clear of Craigieburn which has slipped to last again.

The Wizards face Westmeadows and Keilor in the final two rounds.

Brennan said they were hoping to get wins in both games to secure their future in the top grade.

He said while it hadn’t been the season they were after there had been some positives.

“Hopefully we can adapt our footy a little bit to play at that level and be more competitive with the top teams and be really competitive with the sides through the middle there as well.”

While the Brookers can expect to be a more competitive outfit this season, Maddern said he won’t be placing any expectations on his group.

“With the way things have been set up we don’t sort of put numbers on things,” he said.

“The goal last year was to survive. We were looking at improvement and survival last year and we’re looking to establish Braybrook as a relevant footy club at this level. That’s probably the number one thing, rather than saying this many wins and this many losses.

“We’ll wait and see how things pan out, because we’ve recruited but I reckon every club around us will have been doing the same and I think it’s going to be a very different looking competition.”

Braybrook will kick off its and the division’s season with a blockbuster against Laverton on Good Friday, March 29.

VTCA Yarraville Club’s Victorian Turf Cricket Association T20 campaign is over.

The Clubbers faced Grand United in a knockout final last Tuesday night. The Clubbers made 7-135 from their overs with Michael Hill top scoring with 46.

The Gorillas hit the winning runs with 11 balls remaining, finishing 8-137.

Mitch Johnstone took three wickets.

Matildas Western United’s Chloe Logarzo is back in the Matildas squad for the upcoming Olympic qualifiers against Uzbekistan. It represents a return to Matildas’ camp for the first time since November 2022 and is just reward for Logarzo following the journey that she has been on the last 18 months.

After a cruel spell of injuries saw her miss out on last year’s FIFA Women’s World Cup, Logarzo has returned to top form. Through 14 appearances this A-League women season, Western United’s co-captain has been one of the best players in the competition, scoring five goals and providing two assists.

Australia Cup Williamstown is through to the round of the Australia Cup after a big win on Friday night against Lara United.

Williamstown led 1-0 at half time before kicking away in the second half to win 4-1. Altona North had a 3-1 win against Melbourne City, while Maidstone United meanwhile forfeited its match, giving Epsom a 3-0 win.

Lachlan Anderson (Ljubica Vrankovic)

“We’re sitting lower than last year,” he said. “ We’ve had a couple of 17, 18-year-olds in Sam Hall and Lachlan Anderson get their start in the first XI. “Hopefully they’ll play for us for a long time.”

In other matches, Yarraville Club moved into the top four with a win against Aberfeldie.

The Clubbers made 329 on day one of the match between third and fourth with Chinthaka Jayasinghe top scoring with 122.

The Clubbers then bowled Aberfeldie out for 151. Searching for an outright victory they sent Aberfeldie back in.

Aberfeldie was 2-73 when stumps were called.

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Important games on the horizon for Angliss Footscray Angliss still has plenty of work to do if it wants to play finals in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association Evans-Clark Shield season.

Angliss was back to its best on the weekend, crushing Laverton in a Saturday-Sunday clash, putting them just one spot out of the top four with two matches to play.

On Saturday, Angliss batted first, scoring an impressive 262 before being bowled out in the 70th over.

Jagger Skilbeck at five, who made 55, and Jason Wozniak at eight who finished on an unbeaten 51 were the Angliss best with the bat.

“The guys did really, really well,” president Michael Cox said.

“They put some decent runs on the board, so it was well batted, especially down the lower order. Jase Wozniak came in and scored some important runs and gave us enough runs to attack.”

Saturday ended as strong as it started for Angliss taking three late wickets, putting Laverton 3-10 overnight.

Laverton finished its first innings at 103, before being sent back in and making 6-185.

“It put us in a position of strong belief,” Cox said.

Daniel Janka (Ivan Kemp) 323440_09

“We obviously knew that it was going to be warm and difficult on the Sunday, so to give our guys the belief that we could finish it off and then possibly put ourselves into a position

for an outright win, I think was a really good mindset to have on the Saturday evening.

“It was a real grind on Sunday, Laverton dug in a little bit and it was difficult in those

conditions and all the guys bowled really well.

Sean Tyrrell held up an end with his spin which allowed us to attack from the other end.

“We had enough runs on the board to put them back in for an outright and again we took early wickets, get the breakthroughs but there were a couple of batters who really performed well for Laverton.

“It was a little bit disappointing and the guys were all keyed up to get the outright win and that would have put us in a really good position coming into the finals series but it was an important win nevertheless.”

The final two games of the regular season for Angliss come against the top two sides on the ladder, with first placed Gellibrand this weekend, followed by Moonee Valley.

If Angliss are any hope of making the final four, they need one win at a minimum.

“We know that we’ve got a couple of tough games coming up against really strong sides,” Cox said.

“We know that if we perform well, we can put ourselves in a really good position to make finals and if we actually make finals, we know that having beaten those sides we could make a dent in the finals. So a couple of big weeks for the lads coming up.”

Down day for Dogs’ batters

Joshua Hahnel (Jacob Pattison) 386771_05

Eagles’ mixed weekend

By Tara Murray A bit more belief and consistency are the keys for Yarraville to take the next step in the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association north-west.

The Eagles have had a mixed season this year, which was shown on the weekend, and sit in the middle of the table with two rounds remaining.

Eagles coach Jonah Koch said it had been an interesting season.

“We’re progressing OK,” he said. “I think it’s a bit of consistency and a bit of belief. We have beaten some good sides and lost to some sides we thought we could have played better against.

“We’re not that far away.”

The tail of the Eagles season was on show on the weekend, as they faced Altona and Taylors Lakes in back-to-back one-dayers.

On Saturday, Koch said it was a disappointing performance. The Eagles made 7-162 from their overs with Adam Williamson top scoring with 37.

“The batting left a little bit to be desired,”

Koch said. “We needed a few more blokes to stand up.

“That score felt defendable but we needed to execute with the ball and in the field. We needed to get everything right.”

The Eagles had the A’s in trouble at 3-8 before they steadied and went on to make 5-163.

Matthew (67) and James Grubb (53) were the keys to getting the A’s over the line.

Ashish Mathew took 3-25 for the Eagles.

It was a different story on Sunday, as the Eagles played some of their best cricket to beat Taylors Lakes.

The Eagles bowled the Lions out for 96 in just the 27th over.

Mathew was the star of the show, taking 6-28 off his nine overs. The Lions had little issues in the run chase, finishing 3-100 in reply.

“It’s amazing how quickly things change,” Koch said. “We needed to execute all our plans.

“We had good energy in the field and it was quite warm. There was a little bit of energy and everything went right, all the edges went to fielders.

22 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 14 February, 2024

“They have a really good bowling attack, but getting the runs was hassle free.”

The Eagles sit in 11th spot with two rounds remaining. They are still a mathematical chance of making finals, but everything would have to go their way.

“I think we would need a miracle,” Koch said. “We have Strathmore in ta two day game hopefully get that one and St Bernard’s at the end of the year who look like playing best cricket/ We want to finish the year strong and it’s a good building block into next season. We can still shape the ladder as we get to the end of the season.”

Altona also had a split weekend, losing to Kew on Sunday after making just 147.

Ladder leaders Spotswood beat Williamstown in a high scoring affair on Saturday before an upset loss to Ivanhoe on Sunday., Williamstown bounced back and kept its finals hopes alive with a win against Hoppers Crossing on Sunday.

A poor batting display has seen Footscray slip behind the pack in the race for Victorian Premier Cricket finals.

Having had some strong second half season form, the Bulldogs were hoping to continue that against Ringwood and cement a top eight spot heading into the final round.

Having restricted the Rams to 184 on day one of the match, the Bulldogs would have been confident in chasing that down.

They resumed at 2-17.

It would be a day to forget for the Bulldogs batters as the side was skittled for just 73 in 50.2 overs.

Mitchell Jamieson, in his first top grade match of the season, was the only batter to show resistance, finishing 31 not out.

The next highest scorer was Travis Dean with 11.

The Rams sent the Bulldogs straight back in as they searched for an outright win.

The Bulldogs were again in trouble early with Aiman Nadeem, Mitchell Jamieson, who had been promoted up the order and Dylan Brasher, were back in the sheds before the total hit 15.

Dylan Kight and Arjun Nair soon joined them with the side staring down being bowled out for 100 for the second time in a day.

The experienced Travis Dean and James Doherty steadied the ship, with the Bulldogs finishing 5-90.

Dean finished not out on 37, while Doherty was unbeaten on 29.

The loss leaves the Bulldogs sitting in 11th spot, six points outside the top eight.

The Bulldogs face Casey-South Melbourne in the final round of the season in a two-day clash. They will need results to go their way if they’re to play finals.

Meanwhile, the Bulldogs were beaten in the semi finals of the under-18 competition on Sunday by Melbourne.

The Bulldogs made 171 as they were bowled out in the 48th over. Melbourne made the runs with ease, finishing 3-172 in just 29.1 overs.

Altona Magic learns from first up NPL loss It wasa nervous start to the National Premier League for Altona Magic on Saturday night.

With a new coach and a new squad it was always going to take some time for the Magic to come together.

A slow start proved costly for the Magic against Heidelberg United. Heidelberg scored in the first half to set up a 1-0 half time lead.

The Magic had a couple of good chances in the second half, but wasn’t able to make the most of them, losing 1-0.

Magic coach Goran Lozanovski said they would take a lot out of the game.

“There were a lot of good learnings,” he said.

“More about ourselves then the opposition.

“I think we will definitely grow from this and get better each week.

“We need to get better collectively and individually.

Lozanovski said while they had shown some

good signs in the pre-season, he said the group appeared to be a bit jittery in the first half.

He said in the second half they had their chances to get back into the game on the scoreboard.

“We had a couple of good chances,” he said.

“There was one where their keeper dropped the ball under pressure and we should have tapped it in.

“There was one in the first half where Stephen Lawless should have scored and we had a couple of half chances.

“Had we scored I think it would have given us the confidence and we would have come away with it.”

Lozanovski said it will continue to take time for them to come together, but they need to ensure that they are picking up points along the way as well.

He said it was a matter of being smart with

how they face each opposition.

“The growth is delayed a couple of weeks but we are getting a bit more unity,” he said. “We will get there.

“There’s a lot of young boys and they will be better for it. They need to get that consistency across 90 minutes.”

The Magic this Friday face Dandenong City.

City, which was promoted in the off season, started the season with a 4-3 loss to Avondale.

Lozanovski said they can’t take them easy.

“They were another club that got promoted and have improved their squad as well,” he said.

“They have a bit more stability than we do.

“We will grow as we gel and there’s always opportunities. We have to be smart with how we tackle them, “Hopefully walk away with something out of this game, it’s important.”

Tara Murray

Altona Magic’s Nedim Skenderevic. (Ljubica Vrankovic)

Medwin return boost for Western United

Scott Edwards in the Altona Sports colours (Supplied)

Edwards enjoying play

By Tara Murray Netherlands captain Scott Edwards spends most of his time back in Australia involved in cricket, but it didn’t stop him taking on a role at Altona Sports.

Edwards, who is from Australia, joined the club at its junior development coach to help out the next generation of players.

Edwards said he was keen to get involved with Altona Sports and what they’re trying to do with their junior program.

“I’m loving it,” he said. “I had a mate that I’ve played a little bit of cricket with at my local club in the eastern suburbs and he was sort of keen to get me down to Altona Sports.

“I was keen to be involved in what is a pretty cool junior program, then being part of the seniors for the T20s it has been awesome as well.”

Edwards runs training with the under-11s and under-13s at training on Wednesday nights, while also running individual sessions when he can.

Many children wouldn’t have the chance to have this training if not from this program.

“It’s a big part of the reason why I wanted to be involved,” he said. “The system and junior program that Altona Sports has created

for kids that don’t necessarily get those opportunities or might not have the financial security to be involved in cricket which can be a bit of an experience sport. To be able to to give back is really cool.”

He said most of the players were aware of his standing in the cricket world, with many watching him at the World Cup and becoming Netherlands supporters.

As well as helping with Altona Sports junior program, Edwards played in three matches in Sports run in the North West Metropolitan Cricket Association T20 competition. which ended in the semi finals last week.

Edwards put on a show in the three matches, hitting 100, 82 and 121.

Edwards said it wasn’t always the plan for him to play.

“It’s a little bit scarce when I’m back and when I am, I like to play as many games as I can whether that is with mates or at my traditional club Richmond,” he said.

“It just worked out I could play some games with Altona, while I was back, worked out nicely “It was actually pretty cool most of the sides that we came up against were actually really excited about the opportunity to play against me I suppose, which I probably wasn’t

expecting, “They were great, our team has been great and it has been a great standard to, alongside of some of the guys with the club.

“I got a little bit lucky, I was dropped in two of the three games with a bit of a low score, and managed to get to a decent total after that.”

As well as combining playing Victorian Premier Cricket and T20 cricket since arriving back from the world cup, Edwards was called into the Melbourne Renegades squad for the final two BBL matches.

“It was great to be a part of the squad for the last couple of games of the season, hopefully get some opportunities going forward.

“It’s always been something that had as one of my goals to get some opportunities in Australian cricket, “I love everything that I do win the Dutch set up, it was pretty cool to get an opportunity in the Australian set up as well.’

Edwards short time home comes to an end as he heads over to Nepal for a tri-series. It will be good preparation for the T20 World Cup which the Netherlands have already qualified for.

“We always set high expectations for ourselves, have not been together pretty much as a group since the World Cup.”

Aimee Medwin will give Western United a significant boost for the remainder of the A-League women season after rejoining the club.

Medwin made an immediate impression in her nine appearances for Western United last season before her campaign was cruelly cut short by an ACL injury.

The 24-year-old has remained in connection with the club throughout her rehabilitation program and is now ready to step back into her number five jersey alongside her teammates.

Speaking ahead of her return to action after almost 12 months on the sidelines, Medwin said she is overjoyed to be officially back with the team and expressed her gratitude for the club’s support.

“Obviously it’s been a long time in the making, and it’s been really good to finally come back into the team. I’m really excited to be back,” she said.

“For me, it was really good to be in and around the group and still feel like I was part of the team. Obviously the support staff have been so amazing with me, helping me get back on the field. It’s been really nice to be around the group.

“I feel really good. Coming back I feel faster, I feel stronger, so that’s really good for me and I just want to continue that until I get back on the field.”

United’s general manager of football Mal Impiombato hailed Medwin’s return as an important one for the run-in towards the A-League finals.

“We are delighted to reintroduce Aimee as a part of our playing squad and we are all looking forward to seeing her return to the pitch,” he said.

“Playing an integral part of our inaugural season success, Aimee has shown incredible resilience through her rehabilitation with the support of our high-performance staff.

“Aimee’s addition will be a significant one for our team heading into the latter part of the season and we look forward to having her help our push for finals football.”

Medwin signed for Western United after round one last season and quickly became a regular fixture in the side.

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