Star Weekly - Hobsons Bay Maribyrnong - 6th March 2024

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A range of two or three storey, 3 and 4 bedroom townhomes provide the conveniences of a modern townhome, whilst maintaining the individuality, privacy and scale of a traditional suburban house.

Farewell to a fruitful career

After 30 years of trading the Napoli family has decided to pack up the boxes and sell their iconic fruit shop.

For three decades this family owned business has welcomed Williamstown locals in and treated them like family, all while selling them fresh fruits and vegetables.

Incredibly, it all began with one man and his four sons who in turn found love and turned it into a family affair.

Read about their inter-generational business on Page 7.

Attacks scare residents

By Jennifer Pittorino

Residents in Newport are fearful over the safety of their cars and homes, following a series of repeated attacks.

Luke Westwick, along with his neighbours, want to know if the repeated attacks on their street are connected.

With his car stolen in November and another string of attacks in January, Mr Westwick and his neighbours are afraid and fed-up.

“On our street we have had car thefts and regular damage happening,” he said.

“We had about nine cars hit in one night, windows were smashed in and doors were jammed open.

“The residents are pretty upset about it and

we have been asking around if anyone knows about all the .... damage.”

Mr Westwick lives on a street with very high foot traffic and limited street lighting, something he hopes Hobsons Bay council can address.

“There are a few lights every couple hundred metres, there are lamps but they are not on every pole,” he said.

Nearby is the Australian Islamic Centre which Mr Westwick said attracts 5000 to 10,000 visitors a day.

“There is a park near the mosque which has lighting but as far as the street, where people come from the neighbourhood or people walk, it’s not lit up very well at all,” he said.

“We just want proactiveness from the

council. If this is happening regularly and the streets are really dark with people on the street till late and there is no adequate street lighting, then that’s an issue.”

In order to feel safer Mr Westwick would like more information on what the police are doing to investigate and apprehend any perpetrators.

“We want to know if it is a whole suburb thing or a few streets which are being targeted,” he said.

“It seems like it is an ongoing issue, this is happening quite regularly for any cars that are parked out on the street.

“There are definitely people regularly checking the cars.”

In response a Victoria Police spokesperson said Hobsons Bay Vehicle Crime Reduction

Teamdetectivesarresteda20-year-oldwoman for thefts from motor vehicles in Newport on 29 January. Approximately 12 cars were broken into on Woods Street, Blenheim Road, Basil Street, Mason Street, Thorpe Street and Maddox Road between 12am and 4am.

A 20-year-old Altona North woman was arrested on 1 March and interviewed. She was released pending summons and the investigation remains ongoing.

Anyone who witnessed the incident, has dashcam/CCTV footage or information can contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or make a report online at www. crimestoppersvic.com.au

Hobsons Bay council was also contacted for comment.

(L-R), Antonio Napoli, Frank Napoli, Vic Napoli, Joe Napoli and Ange Napoli. (Supplied)

A MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR

The City of Maribyrnong is truly a place for everyone – we are always celebrating the diversity of our community. Our annual Civic Awards event is one of my favourite events of the year – it recognises a remarkable group of people who actively work to improve the lives of people in our community. Congratulations to all recipients for their efforts in making our City a great place to live, work and visit.

As the local government body, Council strives to advocate on behalf of the community. I met with Katie Hall MP recently to discuss the needs for the Joseph Road Precinct, and I know many will be pleased to hear Joseph Road works will begin this month, weather dependent.

The stage one works will include a reconstruction of Joseph Road, between Hopkins Street and the Heavenly Queen Temple, and will deliver enhanced public amenities, street lighting, upgraded roads, bicycle connections, drainage systems, pedestrian footpaths, a new footpath bridge connection to Hopkins Street, and upgraded public spaces to enhance safety, accessibility, and urban design. We are also working with the Minister for Roads and Road Safety to advocate for a reduction of the current speed limit of 60km/h on Hopkins Street to 40km/h. You can stay up to date on the project at maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/josephroad

I recently toured the Civic Precinct and Community Hub with my fellow councillors and it is really starting to take shape. The site on which the precinct resides has a rich 80 plus year history – a heritage which we are working to respect, restore and celebrate. Preserving this history extends to conserving and restoring the Town Hall’s structure, internal framing and roof in line with Heritage Victoria’s guidance.

Since the demolition, crews have installed the foundation, structural walls, beams, columns, floors and arch windows of the building along with a 60,000 litre rain tank in line with Green Star initiatives, and heritage considerations. Once complete, the new two-storey building will feature workspaces and multi-use spaces to accommodate community activities.

With so much planned for 2024, I encourage you to stay connected. Council’s ‘Meet the Mayor’ sessions have started, and provide an opportunity for the community to say hello and speak with me on matters relating to our City. The next session will be held at Maribyrnong Library on 23 April at 11am – you will find details of future events on maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/ meetthemayor

Mayor Cr Cuc Lam

Find me on Facebook ‘Mayor, Cr Cuc Lam’

MARCH COUNCIL MEETINGS

Tue 19: 6.30pm Council

Tue 26: 6.30pm City Development Delegated Committee

These meetings will be held at the Braybrook Community Hub and livestreamed via Council’s YouTube channel. Community members can submit questions for public question time online on the day of the meeting. Visit maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/meetings or phone 9688 0200 for more information.

Maribyrnong City Council

OUT AND ABOUT

Councillors have been busy.

1. Mayor, Cr Cuc Lam joined by councillors and the 2024 Civic Award recipients.

2. Mayor, Cr Cuc Lam welcoming the Year of the Dragon at the Quang Minh Tet Festival.

3. Mayor, Cr Cuc Lam, and Katie Hall MP meeting to discuss the Joseph Road Precinct.

4. Mayor, Cr Cuc Lam with Deputy Mayor, Cr Michael Clarke, Cr Bernadette Thomas, Cr Simon

Crawford and CEO Celia Haddock, on a site tour of the Civic Precinct and Community Hub redevelopment.

5. Mayor, Cr Cuc Lam and Cr Bernadette Thomas celebrating the launch of the community composting hub at Yarraville Community Centre.

6. Mayor, Cr Cuc Lam joins the Maribyrnong Swifts for their Open Day at Johnson Reserve.

2024 CIVIC AWARD RECIPIENTS

Citizen of the Year: Martin Wurt

Volunteer of the Year: Helen Welch

Youth Leadership Award: Donna-Joe Newman and Farzad Ihaab Ahmad

Community Strengthening Award: Duke Street Community House

Active Maribyrnong Sporting Award: Richard Tonelli

Enterprise Maribyrnong New and Emerging Business Award: Sher & Séo

Enterprise Maribyrnong Contribution to Business Community Award: Princess on Skates

Arts Award: Jessie Deane and Anna Bourozikas

LGBTIQA+ Award: Dr Antje Theilhaber, Eleanor Clinic

Mayoral Awards: East African Womens Foundation, Quang Minh Buddhist Temple and Australia Light Foundation

To find out more about the recipients of the 2024 Civic Awards, visit: maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/civic-awards

Easy to understand information for new parents

By Cade Lucas

Being a first time parent can be difficult enough without the resources, advice and support services needed to navigate life with a newborn, being in a different language.

Despite Melbourne being one of the most multicultural cities on earth, the language barrier has long been a problem for new parents from non-English speaking backgrounds, especially in the western suburbs.

But a new program launched in Sunshine on Thursday is designed to change that.

Developed by Deakin University’s evidenced-based infant feeding, active

play and nutrition (INFANT) program in partnership with the state government, Western Health and local families, a suite of 72 new in-language resources designed specifically for culturally and linguistically diverse families are now available across Victoria.

Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas launched the program at the Alexandra Avenue Children’s Centre in Sunshine West and said all parents should have easy access to support and advice for their newborn.

“As a parent you want trusted information that’s easy to understand and the language you speak shouldn’t be a barrier,” Minister Thomas said.

Comprising of 48 videos and 24 written booklets, the new resources contain critical health information including infant feeding to active play and nutrition.

It is the first time this type of information has been made available in Punjabi, Hindi, Urdu, Arabic, Mandarin, and Vietnamese, which is a particularly common language in Sunshine, Brimbank and other parts of the west.

Thao Tran from the Vietnamese First Time Parents support group said the new resources will make a big difference to the local Vietnamese community.

“Sometimes if they could not connect with the language the parent would just give up

Time for a wee cleanup

By Jennifer Pittorino

One Hobsons Bay resident has described the Williamstown commercial business district as a “very sad area,” complete with empty shops and a overflow of dog pee.

“I have never in my life seen an area which hasbeenpissedonsomuch,”saidRayLindner.

“You can go to every shop front and every single one has been pissed on and it runs across the footpath.

“I am not against people having pets but it seems everyone wants to take their dogs shopping.”

In his efforts to get the street clean, Mr Lindner visited several shops along Ferguson Street,Williamstowntosignalettertocouncil asking that the strip be cleaned.

“I spoke to this shop owner the other day who has been there for three years now, he said he has never seen a street sweeper in those three years,” Mr Lindner said.

“Thisneedstobecleaned,everystreetcorner and every shop front is simply disgusting.”

One of the shops on Mr Lindner’s list was Ricardo’s Hairdressing.

For nearly 50 years owner Sam Pepe has traded in the same spot and has become increasinglydisappointedwiththecleanliness of the area.

“The footpath is filthy dirty. To be quite honestIcan’tbelievehowfilthyWilliamstown has become,” he said.

“The dogs just pee everywhere, we have to put vinegar outside to stop it.”

On many occasions, Mr Pepe and his team

have had to take cleaning matters into their own hands.

“Sometimes we have to weed ourselves, it is just terrible,” he said.

“The last three or four years it has gotten a lot worse, there used to be a lot of care but there isn’t now.”

Despite coming in on early mornings, Mr Pepe said he has never seen a street sweeper.

“I have come in early in the morning and I don’t see it, there is quite a neglect of it that’s for sure.”

A Hobsons Bay council spokesperson said, “Road sweepers are used around the Ferguson Street and Douglas Parade shops daily. Following a recent resident request for a bin cleaning, a pressure wash and deep clean was completed the next day. “

and not get the help they need,” she said.

“So this is a very great opportunity.”

Professor Kylie Hesketh from the Institute of Physical Activity at Deakin University, helped design the INFANT program 15 years ago and said making its nutritional and active play advice more widely available would benefit the broader community.

“We’ve got more than 15 years of evidence that show that families who take part in this program, have children who are eating more healthily, who are engaging in less screen time and that these benefits continue through the child’s life.”

Turning trash to treasure

Altona Gate Shopping Centre has launched a used toys donation program in partnership with Moose Toys and Circonomy, to help divert unused toys away from landfill.

The Bag It, Tag It and Drop It station will stay at the centre until the third week of March.

Here the community can donate their unwanted toys which will then be sorted through before being either re homed, repaired or recycled via charity partners.

Circonomy will sort the toys to understand which items may be suitable for donations, safely repaired or recycled, avoiding unnecessary materials ending up in landfill.

With hopes to raise awareness and educate the local community, Altona GateCentreManagerChrisHolmessaid this is a new way to discard unwanted toys and encourage families to bring in toys they may have outgrown, are no longer working, or would simply like to regift.

“The program demonstrates our commitment to sustainability and our place in the community,” he said.

“We’ve had a fantastic response to the program so far with 489 toys, weighing 123kg already donated, and I’m looking forward to seeing where we finish at the end of the program.”

This program is designed to help combat the 28.6 million toys thrown in landfill in Australia each year

A night of entertainment planned to celebrate a decade of WIT theatre

To celebrate local theatre company WIT’s 10 year anniversary, the team is throwing an extravagant cabaret fundraiser.

Artistic Director Lansy Feng said the team is celebrating 10 years of storytelling, the collaboration of hundreds of artists, the running of kids drama classes, managing festivals and workshops for artists.

“We think it is a big thing for independent theatre companies to survive that long, producing shows on a strict budget over the

years but we made it through,” she said.

“This is something we definitely want to celebrate and we are taking the 10 year mark as an opportunity to hold the cabaret fundraiser.”

With lots of raffle prizes donated from various organisations, Ms Feng said the night will be a lot of fun.

“We have hosted a fundraiser before and they went really well,” she said.

“We have great sponsors who donated

raffle prizes like the Sun Theatre who donated tickets which will be fun for the participants.”

Withtheeventhostedbyatheatrecompany, there will be no shortage of entertainment on the night.

“On the night we will have a variety of different acts, we will have stand up comedy, some songs, musical theatre, a circus, and sketches and little acts,” she said.

“We have a lot of performers coming to help us as well as a nice host.

“Finger food will be provided as well as drinks on sale to celebrate.”

The event will be held on Friday, March 8 at the Bluestone Church Arts Space.

Entry is by donation only which will go towards supporting artists, creating productions and the continuation of running thekidsdramaclassesandartistsdevelopment workshops in 2024.

Sam

A top advocate

Cr Michael Clarke

As a local government, we deliver a lot for our community, but there are some areas beyond our responsibility or budget.

This is where we can advocate on behalf of our community and seek support from other levels of government to get buy-in for improved infrastructure and services our community needs.

Thisbringsmetoour2024citizenoftheyear recipient, Martin Wurt, who was recognised for his dedication to removing trucks from our residential streets.

As president of a local group, Maribyrnong Truck Action Group (MTAG), Martin’s leadership has been instrumental in driving positive change.

Through a collaborative effort by council and MTAG, we’ve been able to change historical truck routes, implement a truck curfew and bans in the Footscray CBD, and reduce speed limits in our residential areas.

These changes have created a safer and healthier city.

Manyknowtheimportanceofroadsafetyin the busy inner-west, where tens of thousands of trucks pass through our municipality daily.

However, we need to advocate for a reduction of trucks on Williamstown Road.

Once complete, the West Gate Tunnel Project will be a real game changer in this space for the community.

Similarly,ourresidentshavebeenaskingfor action around road safety for the Joseph Road Precinct.

Council is working closely with the local community to deliver improvements for the precinct, and we are asking the state governmenttohelpusdoit.Weareadvocating for a reduction in the speed limit on Hopkins

Street from 60km/h to 40km/h to improve safety conditions for all road users.

We will also start the first stage of work on Joseph Road, between Hopkins Street and the Heavenly Queen Temple, this month, weather dependent.

You can stay up to date on the project at maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/josephroad

With a collaborative approach and joint funding, we can pool resources to achieve more for our community.

Briefs

Hit and run

Police are investigating a hit-run collision where a motorcyclist was struck by a car in Footscray on February 28. It is understood a silver sedan was driving erratically on Ballarat Road before it collided with a motorcyclist about 9.05pm. The rider, a 22-year-old woman, sustained injuries and was assessed by paramedics. She did not require hospital treatment. The silver sedan did not stop at the scene. Anyone with information can contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www. crimestoppersvic.com.au.

Williamstown fire

Fire Rescue Victoria crews responded to multiple calls for a house fire in Williamstown early Sunday morning. Crews found a 2-storey timber building 8 metre by 10m metre in the rear yard fully involved in fire which has spread to a shed in a neighbouring property about 4am. One male suffered burns to his back and arm and was treated by a doctor and nurse who lived nearby on scene until Ambulance Victoria arrived.

A community warning was issued due to the large amount of smoke in the area. The cause of the fire is not known.

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Cr Michael Clarke.

Police arrest bridge protesters

By Holly Hales and Kaitlyn Offer, AAP

Three people were arrested after a protest caused traffic chaos on a major Melbourne bridge.

Extinction Rebellion members parked a truckontheWestGateBridge,climbedontop of it and unfurled banners reading, “declare a climate emergency” and “climate breakdown has begun” about 7.45am on Tuesday.

Police used a cherry picker to make the arrests and lower the trio down safely at 9.45am after they refused to get off the truck.

It is expected each will be charged with public nuisance and obstructing a roadway.

No one was injured during the incident.

Roads in Yarraville, Footscray and West Melbourne were affected by the congestion.

Police say the group also lit a flare when on the truck.

In a livestream video posted to the group’s Facebook page, the three protesters called for government action on climate change.

“This is a climate and ecological emergency and our actions every day impact the habitability of our planet for ourselves and

Top win for ParKanDo

ParKanDo, a grassroots support group for people impacted by Parkinson’s, has won the grassroots volunteering award in the state governments 2023 Volunteering Awards.

On Tuesday, February 27, ParKanDo members Carmel Wall, Peter Wall, Mimi Morgan and Pam West accepted the award at a ceremony at Government House hosted by the Victoria Governor Margaret Gardner.

The state government said this award celebrates small community-led organisations that have played pivotal roles in providing essentiallocalservices,drivingpositivechange, and fostering social and community cohesion.

Co-founder Peter Wall said the group are feeling very humbled and very pleased.

“When you look at the calibre of the other finalists, they are all richly deserving of the award,” he said. “We were really happy that we were chosen, it is wonderful.”

Mr Wall said ParKanDo has emerged as a beaconofhopeandsupportforindividualsand

families affected by Parkinson’s in the west.

Founded in February 2020, ParKanDo offers a wide range of services to meet the needs of its participants.

These include emotional and social support programs, educational seminars and information-sharing sessions.

MrWallsaidthisawardhasgivenParKanDo the inspiration to keep going onto bigger and better things.

“Thebiggestthingisjustgettingthewordout and advocacy,” he said.

“It’s not just advocacy for ParKanDo, it’s advocacy for Fight Parkinson’s Victoria because Parkinson’s is now the fastest growing neurological condition in the world.

“There are a number of other worthy causes, but again we are trying to keep the name or the condition of Parkinson’s out there and spread the information about Parkinson’s and what’s availabletopeopleoncetheygetthediagnosis.”

Jennifer Pittorino

FREE HARD RUBBISH COLLECTION

for generations to come,” activist Violet CoCo said. “We’re extremely committed to non-violent direct action but we are committed to sounding the alarm on the climate and ecological emergency. We are askingthegovernmentandalllevelsofsociety to declare an ecological emergency and to act on that emergency as soon as possible.”

Extinction Rebellion describes itself as a non-partisan movement that uses non-violent action to demand governments take action on climate change.

Ms CoCo, 33, was previously jailed for

13 days after blocking a lane of the Sydney Harbour Bridge during morning peak hour in 2022. Ms Coco was joined on the West Gate Bridge by Brad Homewood and Joe Zammit, according to the group.

Extinction Rebellion said in a social media post the protest was designed to coincide with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations summit in Melbourne.

It wants Australia to declare a climate and ecological emergency at the conference and is calling on other ASEAN leaders to do the same.

A charity day on the green

Hobsons Bay Community Fund (HBCF) is holding its ninth annual charity golf day to raise funds to benefit the Hobsons Bay community.

HBCF chair Adrian Butera said funds raised from the event would directly benefit local community groups in Hobsons Bay.

“We’re thrilled to have one of the municipality’s top citizens speaking at our charity golf day,” he said.

“Itisarealopportunityforlocalcommunity leaders, recipients, friends and businesses to come together over the common interest of golf.”

Mr Butera said the day is a chance for HBCF to tell the community what the fund does while creating the opportunity to raise money, and of course play golf.

“They play 18 rounds of golf, with various awards given out on the day,” he said.

“It is fun and there is a lot of fellowship. It is really powerful for the opportunity to get to know each other over golf.”

Mr Butera said at the end of the day dinner is served and everyone is invited back next year.

“It’s a fun day out, with an important focus on looking after our health, and it’s for a great cause,” he said.

“Sincewestartedin2006,ourphilanthropic fund has grown our corpus to $1 million.

“Each year, we provide grants of around five per cent to grassroots groups and organisations.

“The fund has contributed over $500,000 to nearly 200 grassroots groups and clubs supporting the community of Hobsons Bay.”

The charity golf day will be held on Wednesday, March 20, at Kooringal Golf Club in Altona.

The event allows players of all abilities to participate in teams of four, registrations are open for single players or teams.

Details: https://events.humanitix.com/ hbcf2024

(L-R)Carmel Wall, Peter Wall, Honourable Margaret Gardner AC, Mimi Morgan, Pam West (below). (Supplied)

Renter pain felt in Maribyrnong

By Jennifer Pittorino

Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay renters are experiencing some of the worst rental pain in Victoria, according to new data from Suburbtrends.

SuburbtrendsreleasesamonthlyRentalPain Index (RPI) which scores suburb groups out of a hundred on rental pain, the score is derived from measuring rental prices, household incomes, vacancy rates and advertised rentals.

The suburb of Yarraville received the highest RPIof87whichisindicativeofa“severelytight rental market.” Anything over 75 is considered “extreme” rental pain.

Altona Meadows was the second worst among the municipalities displaying an RPI of 83, in comparison to Altona North, Altona, Footscray, Newport, and Braybrook who all hadscoresabove75.Maribyrnong’ssituationis also “critical” with an RPI of 81, while Seddon, Kingsville, West Footscray and Tottenham all haveRPIscoresof80,whileSeabrookdisplayed the least rental pain with a score of 54.

Suburbtrends founder Kent Lardner said this month’s RPI highlights a significant transformation in Melbourne’s rental market, where many renters are spending 30% or more of their household income on rent.

“This shift is particularly alarming

Fruits of their labour

Fifty-five years ago Italian migrant Antonio Napoli opened his fruit shop on Ferguson Street, Williamstown, beginning a long legacy of trading.

Years later, in 1994, Napoli’s Quality Fruit Market opened its new doors down the road, welcoming Williamstown residents to the new space.

Nowafteryearsofhardworkanddedication, co-owner Sharon Napoli said the family are ready to rest.

“It has been a true family business all these years, four brothers and their wives have all worked hard and been involved,” said Sharon with her sister-in-laws also helping in the background.

“All our children have come and learnt the ropes and done their bit working here and some still are.”

Joe and his wife Gina, Vic and his wife

Sharon, Frank and his wife Anna along with Ange have all enjoyed the years of trading, highlighting the many friends made along the way.

“Wehavemadealotoffriends,ourcustomers have become like an extended family,” Sharon said.

“Customershavehadkidsandthosechildren haveendedupworkingforusasaparttimejob.

“It’s a real community thing, we have employed a lot of the local children.”

AlthoughtheNapoli’saresadtosaygoodbye, they feel they have earned a hard earned rest.

“We are all overwhelmed and emotional , we are sad and happy,” Sharon said. “We are all just going to recuperate and take it from there.

“We want to thank everybody for all these years, we wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for the customers.”

Fresh finds at the market

The Maribyrnong community can continue to enjoytheYarravilleFarmersandCraftMarket with a new string of traders.

Market organiser Eileen Fiederling O’Callaghan said the market has operated in different locations in Yarraville for the past 10 years.

“We run the market on the third Saturday of each month at Beaton Reserve,” she said.

“I love the people, I really absolutely love them and I have had so many wonderful experiences.”

With 10 stallholders visitors can expect a variety of produce and goods when they shop at the market, one of which is mushroom farmer Andrew McDougal.

Mr McDougal is a new stallholder at the market who is excited to share his love for mushrooms.

“I have been looking for a community to join, I have been to this market a number of

considering Melbourne’s long-standing reputation for affordability relative to other capital cities,” he said.

“Which has been a major draw card for both residents and migrants over the last decade.”

Mr Lardner said this trend forewarns that a vast majority of Melbourne’s renters are on the brink of crossing this critical threshold within the year.

“The recent surge in RPI scores across Melbourne’s suburbs is a clear indicator of the growing pressure on renters. For years, Melbourne has been celebrated for its relative affordability, offering a compelling alternative to the soaring rental markets of other capitals.

“This trend reversal is a wake-up call, signalling the need for urgent measures to address rental affordability and supply issues.”

Mr Lardner said Melbourne’s appearance on its affordability may be no more.

“Melbourne’s appeal has been rooted in its ability to offer affordable living options comparedtootherAustraliancapitals,”hesaid.

“However, our analysis shows an unsettling trendtowardsthe30percentincomethreshold for renters, a benchmark of critical financial stress.Thisshiftchallengesthecity’sreputation and requires immediate attention from policymakers to ensure Melbourne remains an attractive and viable option for residents.”

times and like the way it was really local,” he said.

“It has been an interest of mine for quite a long time. It’s something that I have wanted to start selling because of the health benefits and also because they are delicious as well.”

A multi purpose veggie according to Mr McDougal, mushrooms are not only tasty but good for you.

“Besides the taste, the health benefits include being good for your immune system and are really good for your gut as well,” he said.

“The good thing about markets is they have been growing on a proper farm.”

Mr McDougal said he enjoys the support he gets at a community market.

“People support and are mindful of shopping locally and sustainably.”

Jennifer Pittorino

Jennifer Pittorino Vic, Sharon, Gina and Joe Napoli. (Jacob Pattison) 391428_01

Andrew McDougal. (Damjan Janevski) 388283_01

Visiting program drives change

The Office of the Public Advocate (OPA) released its community visitors annual report, reporting an overall increase in abuse, neglect andviolenceforthepeopletheyvisitincluding in Melbourne’s west.

The (OPA) is a human rights organisation which promotes the diversity and inclusion of all people. In 2022-2023, 384 OPA volunteer visitors and their 117 trainees conducted 3793 visits at 1270 Victorian facilities where people with disability and people with mental health issues receive support.

The report recorded 596 reports of abuse

in the most recent period, up from 458 in 2020-21.

One instance highlighted in the report was one supported living accommodation provider in the west metro area.

The report said this service provider took action to improve the lives of its residents by addressing the concerns raised by community visitors. Enhancements were then made to elevate the living standards for residents.

Thereportsaidthisincludedbothstructural and aesthetic concerns, including plastering cracks, repainting walls, and introducing

Workshops for writers

Writersbasedinthewestnowhavethesupport of a new non-profit organisation which will be hosting a monthly series of specialised writing events tailored for westies.

West Footscray Arts is based is based out of West Footscray’s The Chestnut Tree Bookshop, and run by local writers Donita Richards and Jess Lilley. With the help of bookshop owner Reem Sweid, both Ms Lilley and Ms Richards have created the organisation to bring together writers of the west.

“We are focusing on writers from all of the western suburbs, as members of the local community we have found the west has an amazing depth of talent,” Ms Lilley said.

“Often all of the writing events and and a lot of the focus is on the other side of town in the north.

“With the culture of the west there are different experiences and challenges which we wantedtocelebratewiththewritersonthisside of town.”

With the help of Maribyrnong council, Ms Lilley said both her and Ms Richards are able to combine both of their skills to create the workshops.

“We are passionate members of the community and want to see more of this stuff happening,” she said.

“Wewanttotaketheprofessionalskillswe’ve gained over our time and really celebrate our local community and just have a really kick ass event.” Ms Lilley said they have programmed the workshops with the lens of what it’s like living in the west.

“We have a conversation with a local author for her book launch, we have two amazing historians who look at the subversive, underground history of the west and a workshop with an amazing local screenwriter.”

The next event is the book launch which will be held on Saturday, March 16.

Details: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/o/ the-chestnut-tree-bookshop-39745040313

Calling volunteer mentor drivers

Are you fully licensed, interested in driving and looking to volunteer? Why not become a learner driver mentor. You’ll be matched with a local driver aged 16-21, and help them to become safe and confided drivers.

A full Victorian driver’s license and 1.5 hours a week is all that’s required. Learner vehicle is provided. Visit maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/L2P for more information and to register, or call 9091 4700

new furniture with a complete dining set that brings warmth and homeliness to shared spaces.Additionally,bothbathroomsreceived essentialrepairs,furtherensuringthecomfort and safety of residents.

The report said this initiative highlights the role Community Visitors play in advocating for improvements and upholding the rights and dignity of those in supported living.

“Their dedication not only brings to light the necessity for ongoing enhancements in residential services but also celebrates the achievements made possible through

collaborativeeffortsbetweenserviceproviders and the vigilant oversight of community visitors,” it said.

Combined Board and Public Advocate of Victoria chair Dr Colleen Pearce said “It’s a testament to what can be achieved when service providers and community visitors collaborate with a shared vision of respect and support. As this story unfolds, it serves as a testament to the positive impact that dedicated support and responsive service provision can have on the lives of individuals in our community.”

Artists trade to Tread Lightly

The Louis Joel Arts and Community Centre will soon host a market designed for local artists to buy, swap and sell materials.

The Creatives Treading Lightly Market will be held on Saturday, March 16, for a day of discussions, demonstrations and more.

Gallery and Exhibitions producer Madeline Frohlich said the market day was formulated out of a series of panel discussions where artists met to discuss how sustainability impacts their work.

One attraction of the day will be a gallery exhibition by local textile artist Connor Overdam-Shaw.

“Iamamultidisciplinaryqueervisualartist and writer, my passions which you will see at Louis Joel are around sustainability, fashion and gender,” they said.

“I will be there to talk about my work and answer questions about how I source recycled material and what I do with it afterwards.”

Mr Overdam-Shaw’s exhibition is called ‘Closet’, describing their narrative as a drag

performer.

“It is pretty much just my closet because I create all my work using recycled textiles and then I wear performance based outfits,” they said.

“Everything seen will be made of textiles that were sourced sustainably in some way, a lot of is actually just actual trash that has been salvaged.

“I’m big on saving materials from landfill, so it is a whole range of different things.”

Inadditiontotheauthortalkandexhibition, other activities will include demonstrations from artists Camille Perry, Ilona Herreiner, and Isboel Morphy-Walsh.

Louis Joel is currently recruiting for local artists and artisans who might be interested in being stallholders which will be selling, donating or swapping excess materials for the market portion of the event.

Details: events.humanitix.com/reanimaterecirculate-rejuvenate-sustainable-artmaterials-market

Ilona Herreiner, Connor Ovenden-Shaw. (Jacob Pattison) 389650_01

Donita Richards and Jess Lilley. (Damjan Janevski) 387364_04

Automotive ensures a top-notch service with attention to detail. For all your automotive needs in Williamstown North, Williamstown Automotive stands out as a reliable choice.

Indeed Convey Indeed Convey staff pride themselves on offering clients friendly and professional conveyancing services Victoria wide. With over 25 years’ experience in conveyancing, Indeed has all your residential and commercial property conveyancing needs covered, whether you are subdividing, developing or simply transferring a property.

gems. And if the arts scene is more your vibe, Louis Joel Arts Centre in Altona and the Substation in Newport always have fabulous exhibitions on. I’m always keen to hear what’s important to you and the improvements you’d like to see in our area, so please email me at melissa.horne@parliament.vic.gov.au

Lukumades

Established in 2013 and owned and managed by Mary Commisso, Indeed Convey boasts an experienced team of 11 conveyancing specialists who operate from three locations; the Albert Park head office, Williamstown and Yarraville. Indeed Convey takes a simplified approach to property conveyancing. The team’s focus is to deliver exceptional and tailored customer service, free of legal jargon – put simply, they will guide you through the conveyancing.

Dream Academy Dance

Dream Academy Dance (DA) and Refinery School of Music (RSM) are both conveniently located in the same venue in Williamstown North, offering an array of dance classes and music lessons to all ages and levels. Established in 1995, both schools specialise in their craft andpridethemselvesonqualityandaccredited teaching, offering highly experienced and established teachers within their field. Operating out of a professional studio facility, within a nurturing and safe environment. So, whether it be for fun, fitness or career, this is the time to make your dreams a reality, by contacting them now for your Free Trial Lessons on 1300 600 111.

Williamstown MP Melissa Horne

This time of year there’s so much to do in and around Williamstown, Altona, Altona North, Newport, Spotswood and Brooklyn. Whether it’s taking a walk on the new Altona Pier, taking a walk around Point Gellibrand or popping into some of our new great bars in Newport and Spotswood. There’s a couple of wonderful parks in Brooklyn that are hidden

At Lukumades™ we specialise in creating hand-crafted Greek doughnuts with a modern twist. Whether you like your doughnuts smothered with Nutella, sprinkled with crushed Oreos or drizzled with salted caramel sauce, we have a little something for everyone! We began our doughnut journey in 2016 out of a food truck that roamed the streets of Australia’s ‘foodie’ capital – Melbourne. We hit the ground running and given our immensepopularity,weventuredintoourvery first bricks and mortar store in just 9 months! ‘Excited’ doesn’t even come close to describing everyone’s reaction when Australia’s first store dedicated to Greek doughnuts was born! It has been one hell of a journey and we have thoroughly enjoyed teaching the people of the world about ‘Lukumades’. Given our huge success, naturally, franchising has been the next step!

Williamstown Specialist Centre Williamstown Specialist Centre is located in the lovely seaside suburb of Williamstown, which is approximately 10 kilometres south west of the Melbourne CBD. The centre is surrounded by free parking spaces both on the main and adjoining streets. All-day parking spots can sometimes be found on Lyon Street or Electra Streets. Specialists include Ear Nose and Throat, Cardiologist, Endocrinologist, General Paediatrician, Orthopaedic Surgeon, Respiratory Physician, Sleep Physician, Vascular Specialist and Endovascular Specialist, Urologist and Musculoskeletal Sports Podiatrist. If you are considering renting one of the centre’s spacious spaces, rooms are available on a sessional basis

Nelson Place, WIlliamstown.

Gem Pier, and Time Ball Tower, WIlliamstown.

Ferguson Street Pier, WIlliamstown.

Multicultural Dementia Care and Support Centres

Australian Multicultural Community Service (AMCS) has recently added Dementia Care andSupportCentrestoitsrangeofcommunity support initiatives, with no cost to attendees.

Within a short space of time, the feedback from carers and their loved one is extremely positive and more centres are opening on a demand-basis.

The aim of the centres is to recognise and assist both the carer and their loved one who has been diagnosed with dementia. Appreciating that the carer faces many practical and emotional challenges in their role, the centres assist by empowering carers through education and wellbeing sessions and enabling them to meet other carers and share experiences and ideas. They have the opportunity to meet in a friendly and safe environment and to receive mentoring support from experienced professionals.

The program enables people with dementia to engage in activities that are suited to their abilities in a welcoming group setting.

Christina and Chandra have been attending the program along with their carers, Cooper and Praveena. Together, they have formed a friendshipandareoftenchattingandlaughing during group activities and enjoying their free lunch! Sharing life stories and experienceshas brought a strong connection.

Carer feedback includes,”It’s a great place to meet other carers and share experiences. It’s a safe place where you can learn and laugh. I don’t feel alone anymore”.

The FREE Dementia Care and Support Centre program runs over five sessions.

For further information call AMCS (03) 9689 9170

Chandra attends the Dementia Care and Support Centre program.

Helping Francesca at home

Francesca Catroppa migrated from Italy 70 years ago and met her husband in Melbourne. Now widowed, she lives alone in her own home, with the support of a Home Care Package, provided by Australian Multicultural Community Services (AMCS).

At 93 years old, Francesca enjoys the company of other people and struggles to cope with social isolation. As part of her Care Plan goals, she wanted to find a regular activity that would meet her social needs.

AMCS is a not-for-profit organisation and has a strong focus on community engagement and social inclusiveness. AMCS organises her transport and support worker to access her social clubs once per month and

Home Care Support & Community Services

supports Francesca during the activity, as the group doesn’t provide this level of support to members through her Home Care Package funds.

Not stopping there, Francesca also wanted to find a music related activity, as she is talentedsingeranddancer.Previously,AMCS assisted Francesca with finding an Italian speaking association that organises monthly functions for its members, celebrating traditional Italian music and dance.

Francesca is absolutely delighted by her musical activity and now has the opportunity to sing and dance to the songs of her childhood, with the bonus of socialising with other Italian speaking people.

Our

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Francesca Catroppa.

Hearing into the future: innovations in hearing aids

In the rapidly evolving world of hearing aid technology, the future sounds incredibly promising, especially for those stepping into the realm of hearing aids for the first time and for those considering an upgrade.

Active Audiology, a leading name in hearing care solutions, is at the forefront of bringing these advanced technologies to users in Melbourne, promising not just enhanced hearing but an improved quality of life.

Recharge and go

Among the most notable developments is the move towards rechargeability. Gone are the days of fumbling with tiny batteries; today’s hearing aids come with rechargeable options that can last a full day on a single charge. This not only adds to the convenience but also significantly reduces the environmental impact associated with disposable batteries.

Bluetooth gives you clear sounds

Another ground-breaking feature is the integration of Bluetooth technology, allowing users to connect their hearing aids directly to smartphones, TVs, and other devices. This connectivity ensures users can enjoy clear sound directly in their ears without background noise interference, enhancing the listening experience during calls, while watching TV, or when listening to music.

Artificial intelligence

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is also making its way into hearing aids, with devices now able to learn and adapt to the listening preferences of the user. AI-driven hearing aids analyze the sounds around you, automatically adjusting settings to optimize hearing in various environments. This personalization means that whether you’re in a bustling café

or a quiet library, your hearing aid adjusts in real-time for the best auditory experience.

Almost invisible

For those intrigued by invisibility in design, thelatestmodelsaresleekerandmorediscreet than ever. Manufacturers have managed to pack all the new technology into devices so small they are virtually undetectable when worn.

Sound awareness

In addition to these innovations, spatial awareness technology has been introduced, helping users better understand where sounds are coming from, thus providing a more natural listening experience. This feature is particularly beneficial in social settings, making it easier to follow conversations.

Try and see what’s new

Active Audiology is excited to introduce these innovations to both new and experienced hearing aid users. To help you navigate the latestinhearingtechnology,ActiveAudiology is offering no obligation aid discussion appointments. This is a perfect opportunity to explore how the new features can meet your personal hearing needs and lifestyle.

As we look towards what’s new and what’s next in hearing aids, it’s clear that the focus is on creating a seamless, more natural listening experience for users. Active Audiology remains committed to ensuring that everyone has access to the best hearing care solutions, today and in the future.

For more information or to book your free aid discussion appointment, visit Active Audiology today. Make an appointment by calling 1300 364 007, www.activeaudiology. com.au. 17 Harrington Square, Altona.

Book an aid discussion with Audiologist Amanda at Active Audiology. Inset: The latest in hearing aids.

Looking after the wellbeing of women in the west

IPC Health wishes the women in our communities a wonderful International Women’s Day!

The theme this year is to inspire inclusion and as an organisation, we’re committed to maintaining a barrier-free and welcoming environment for all members of our diverse communities.

As your local community health care provider in the west, we offer a range of integrated services to improve and support your health and wellbeing.

Our binGO MOVE program was created by IPC Health allied health clinicians to get clients moving through gentle exercise with recognisable songs and actions while fostering social connectionsand inclusion among group members.

Participants loved the program so much they were turning up half an hour early and begging the facilitators for extra sessions!

Now running at both the Altona Meadows and Hoppers Crossing campuses, the binGO MOVE team enlisted volunteer Joanne from our volunteer program to help our allied health clinicians facilitate the free sessions.

“Now that I’m a health service volunteer, I feel like I’m actually making more of a difference to society, more of a contribution. I feel like I’m making a positive impact on other people’s lives which is something I really valueand I think it’s my life a lot more purpose. I love coming every week just to see the clients, the allied health team and other volunteers as well,” said binGO MOVE volunteer Joanne

With six campuses across Melbourne’s west, we work with you to identify your individual health and wellbeing goals.

Our extensive community partners ensure that you receive the right care tailored to your needs.

From mental health and aged care services to volunteering and GP clinics, we also provide outreach, support groups

and group classes. Visit our website at www.ipchealth.com. au for more information and get in touch

on 1300 472 432to see how we can move your health and wellbeing journey forward together.

binGO MOVE volunteer Joanne from the IPC Health volunteer program.

Successful women driving a successful business

Woman v Man….No is the policy at Burnham Real Estate. Give women the credit they deserve, that they are part of our team and culture because of their ability and individual personalities.

Burnham’s successful Sales and Property Management teams are powered by some of the best professionals in the industry, who just happen to be strong women.

Mother-daughter duo, Fil and Celeste Defina, are dominating the Footscray sales market as the top two female agents in the suburb.

Kate Ziolko, Burnham’s commercial property manager, finds her passion for the industry as a break away from the responsibilities of motherhood. Their all-female property management team, Khayla, Jade and Japneet, successfully manageahugerangeofresidentialproperties across Melbourne’s west.

Umin Xu, the friendly face at the front desk of their Barkly Street office, is the glue that binds them in to one sensational team of women.

These strong women, who contribute to Burnham’s success every day, are supported by their directors Warwick Burnham and Tony Gerace who say that they “strive to have the best people in the business and we are fortunate to have these wonderful leaders in their respective departments that should be seen as role models to younger women wanting to enter the fast paced world of real estate”.

Behind every successful woman is a group of other successful women who cheer them on and that is exemplified at Burnham Real Estate where successful women drive successful business.

LASTING,LIMITLESSANDLIKENONEOTHER

Restore,renovateor

•Cornerblockofapproximately571m2

•Threestreetfrontages

•Brightandairyliving roomwithfrontporchentryandoriginalopenhearthfireplace

•Separatedining roomwithkitchenaccess,woodpanellingandcork floors

•Kitchenfeaturingfree-standinggascooker,timberbenchtopsand originalcabinetryandporcelainsink

•Fourspaciousandlight-filledbedroomswithperiodfeatures

•Renovatedcentralbathroomwithseparatetoilet

AUCTION 09/03/24at11am

Contact: FilDefina0405164399

CelesteDefina0425810110

Inspect: ContactAgent

Price: $1,500,000-$1,600,000

FOOTSCRAY

53 VictoriaStreet

Isabel’s story of caring with the right support

Isabel’s life changed almost immediately with the birth of her second daughter, Elise. Healthcomplicationsmeantthathernewborn needed round-the-clock care and supervision, and home soon became the hospital.

For many months, taking care of their daughter’s additional needs took up to 20 hours a day for Isabel and her husband. Even the less demanding days had to be planned from start to finish. Juggling numerous health appointments whilst ensuring the children were fed, bathed, engaged outdoors and enjoying themselves left little time for a personal life.

“When you become a carer as well as a parent, it detracts from everyone else,” Isabel shared.

“You can’t spend as much time with your husband or your own parents or your other child; it’s very all- consuming. There’s not much room for the spontaneous. There’s just a lot of planning involved to get through our day”.

But gradually, things started to get better. Elise excelled in therapies and her curious personality began to shine through.

Isabelalsogainedaclearerunderstandingof her role as carer and started connecting with Carer Gateway and other community support programs. Carer Gateway provides essential support to carers, addressing the common issues of isolation, exhaustion and depression. Its free services, including counselling, emergency respite, and peer support, significantly provide relief and assistance to the carer improving their wellbeing.

For Isabel and her family, small milestones, like being able to make it down to the shops as a family, marked steady progress in Elise’s development.

And with Elise getting stronger, Isabel has got better at finding opportunities to take

little breaks, such as enjoying a quiet meal or catching a coffee with a friend.

“It’s taken a lot of work to kind of get her from where she was a few months ago to

where she is now. I want to keep doing that role up until she’s at the point where she can just go to playgroup or kinder or whatever, without an issue.

“It’s because I know I can give her the best chance at life by pouring in that time to her now and by pouring in that effort, it’s because I know her best.”

Women leading by example

International Women’s Day (IWD) has long been a day to celebrate the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women, while also marking a call to action for accelerating women’s equality. The theme for IWD 2024 is Inspire Inclusion, which two leading women in the west know all about as Jennifer Pittorino discovered.

As mum to two young girls, Macedon Ranges councillor Annette Death takes pride in being a role model for them and the next generation.

Annette was elected to Macedon Ranges Shire Council in 2020 following a desire to be a “voice for our local community”.

In 2022 she was elected mayor for the first time and was re-elected mayor in 2023.

“I really enjoy being an active member of the community and after talking with different people, I realised these were some real key issues that people were concerned about,” Annette said of her decision to devote herself to local government.

“So I wanted to run for council to be a voice for our local community.”

Her time in local government has allowed Annette to demonstrate that women can succeed in leadership positions.

“I am very fortunate to be in a leadership position as a female because I feel you can lead by example,” she said.

“Being a female, many of my female friends have learned so much about local government through that process, including my children.”

Not many children get to watch their mum at work, but Annette has found bringing her girls, aged seven and 10 to work, a positive experience each time.

“I do think they know a great deal about local government that many other children wouldn’t,” she said.

“They’ve been able to join me at council meetings and come out to events and see me in public speaking positions.

“It’s really motivated them and inspired them to be confident in public speaking and to think about important local issues.”

Finding balance in life can be hard enough as it is, something Annette has experienced being a mum and mayor.

“There are cons that come with being in a leadership position with young children is really the caring responsibility,” she said.

“And also finding the time for my partner, because being mayor many of the events and meetings take place out of hours.

“...So it’s quite a bit of time out of the house in the evenings and on weekends.”

Out of the house at night has come with freedom in other aspects of life. Annette now has flexibility during the day which she has embraced.

“I’ve been available for school drop off and pick up which has been really nice,” said Annette.

“Something I haven’t been able to do in other career roles.”

Annette said the team at Macedon Ranges acknowledge that IWD is an opportunity to raise awareness around gender issues and promote the work that women are doing globally.

“Inclusion is a really important part of the gendered conversation,” she said.

“Particularly around intersectionality and thinking about how we can get people from a variety of different backgrounds and for it and different females from different cultures involved in all elements of our society.”

Annette said she has been fortunate to have been surrounded by many women in leadership roles during her career.

“A highlight for me being mayor, are the other female leaders that I’ve been able to meet,” she said proudly.

“At Macedon Ranges three out of four of our executive leadership team are women and I’ve been empowered by that.”

Learning and growing from other women in leadership roles, Annette has learnt to be kind to herself in her journey.

“Be kind to yourself. If you’re passionate about what you’re doing, you will make a

‘‘ Being a female, many of my female friends have learned so much about local government through that process, including my children ’’

- Annette Death

difference,” she said.

“We can add layers of expectations when we’re in leadership roles around performing well.

“And then being a parent and being a partner it is really important that you acknowledge the great work that you’re doing because you can feel stretched across all those different roles.”

Passion for her community and helping women is something important to Melton resident and chief executive of Djirra, Antoinette Braybrook AM.

Renowned Aboriginal community controlled organisation Djirra delivers holistic and culturally safe family violence services to Aboriginal people who are experiencing family violence or have experienced it in the past.

“Djirra works with Aboriginal people across Victoria who are experiencing, or at risk of experiencing family violence, over 98 per cent are Aboriginal women and their children,” she said.

As an Aboriginal woman leading a specialist service, Antoinette is treating IWD as a time to reflect on the lack of inclusion of Aboriginal women.

“There’s a long history of Aboriginal women not being counted or included through International Women’s Day movements and events,” she said.

“For me, IWD provides an opportunity to bring voice, visibility and amplify our unique experiences when it comes to family

violence, incarceration and child removal.”

For more than two decades Antoinette has dedicated her time to Djirra, her true passion.

“I have been the chief executive for 21 years, this is my life,” she said.

“It’s not work as such. I always say Djirra is in my blood.”

The past year was a big one for Antoinette, with the launch of a new service in Melton, and the defeat of the Voice Referendum left her with a lot to reflect on.

“Since the failed referendum, I have decided that I’m not going to do things the same as I have done previously, this is a new way for me,” she said.

“I am going to focus on the six million people who voted yes for Aboriginal recognition and listening to us. I remain in the yes. Djirra remains in the yes.”

Looking forward, Antoinette has big plans for the future of Djirra and has faith that young women can follow in her footsteps.

“Through my career, I’ve had many incredible Aboriginal and non Aboriginal men and women support me in my journey to Djirra,” she said.

“One bit of advice is make sure you keep those people close to you, that you trust and who you know want to invest in you.

“Be strong in your culture and identity and never doubt that. Set some ambitious goals which will keep driving you forward.”

IWD will be celebrated at a wide range of locations across the west on Friday, March 8.

‘‘ IWD provides an opportunity to bring voice, visibility and amplify our unique experiences when it comes to family violence, incarceration and child removal ’’

- Antoinette Braybrook

Annette Death, and inset, with her daughters Alma and Valda.

Antoinette Braybrook AM.

An enchanted high tea in pink

More than 130 women gathered for an Enchanted High Tea on Sunday, March 3, to raise money for those suffering from breast cancer.

Organiser Liza Cagorski said the day was a success full of “elegance, charm, and a touch of magic.“

“The venue was transformed into a whimsical wonderland, adorned with beautiful pink decorations and delicate floral arrangements,“ she said.

“Our guests were treated to a delectable selection of teas, accompanied by an array of scrumptious pastries, finger sandwiches, and sweets.“

Ms Cagorski said the highlight were the activities and entertainment.

“Laughter, conversations, and new friendships were forged, making it a truly memorable experience.“

Liza: 0416 268 959

Super Rugby team holds training in Newport

New Zealand Rugby Union Champions The Crusaders trained at Power House Junior RugbyUnionClubgroundsinNewport,before playing a huge Super Rugby Pacific weekend.

Beginning on Friday through to Sunday, 12 teams from Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific played a weekend of matches at AAMI Park.

In an upset, the Crusaders lost 24-37 to the NSW Waratahs on Saturday night.

Power House Junior Rugby Club will also be hosting the Wellington Hurricanes, Auckland Blues, Western Force (Perth) and the ACT Brumbies.

President Jason Andrew said The Crusaders areconsistentlyrankedasoneofthebestsports teams across all codes in Australasia.

“They have a number of All Blacks in their midst,“ he said.

“We had nearly 150 professional athletes on our grounds in the last few days which was an amazing opportunity for our club.

“It is an inspiration for many boys and girls to be able to see these top international players in the western suburbs.

“Wearefortunatetohavetwofirstclassfields and club rooms at Blenheim Road, Newport where the teams will enjoy training.“

Christchurch Crusaders . (Ljubica Vrankovic)

Women from all walks of life attended.

More than 130 guests attended.

Jules Brooke and Suzy Accardi.

Intimo models.

Kosta Loe and Anita Pazeski.

Liza Cagorski hosted the event. (Supplied)

INTIX expands internationally

Afast-growingAustralianticketingtechnology solution for sports and events, based in Footscray is continuing to expand globally.

INTIX, which was founded by Footscray local Alex Grant, has just opened a new office in London as it continues its international expansion. INTIX provides white label ticketing and membership solutions for sporting organisations including the AFL, National Basketball League and NBL1, A-League,SuperNetballLeagueclubs,Squash Australia and Hockey ONE.

Chief executive Alex Grant said he is excited toseethecompanygrowundertheleadershipof INTIX general manager UK Damien Griffith.

“By opening our office in London, we will be able to support more companies with the best possible ticketing solution and fan experience for their events,” he said.

“We are confident that Damien’s leadership and expertise will be instrumental in further strengthening our position in the UK market and exceeding our customers expectations.

“I will be heading to the UK in April to meet

with current and future clients and ensure our new operations are set up to the high standard we hold ourselves to.”

Mr Grant said INTIX supports ticketing for all kinds of events but has found particular success in sporting events.

“Sporting events in particular have enjoyed switching over to INTIX as our automations significantly reduce administration time,” he said.

“Our integrations provide a better overall experience for them and their fans, and we

Diana needs help in her cancer fight

A local support worker and mentor needs the community’s help to battle her journey through cancer and recovery.

A Go Fund Me has been set up for Diana Connell who is battling cancer and unable to work her job at McAuley Community Services for Women in Footscray.

The Go Fund Me was created on behalf of theNew-Zealandbornwomanandhercousin Karina Small said the main motivation is to try and alleviate her financial stress.

“Diana is awaiting surgery to remove two cancerous tumours in her leg, the recovery process is expected to span four months given everything goes as planned,” she said.

“Diana’s move to Australia occurred during the time the federal government

changed the laws to make it very difficult for New Zealanders to become permanent residents or citizens or to access support services.

“Diana has made Australia her home for morethan20yearsandhascontinuedtowork and contribute to taxes and the community, but is now unable to access support services that she needs.”

So far more than $7000 has been raised of the $12,000 target, which Ms Small said would go towards a range of things.

“Now that she’s unable to work as she normally would, she just doesn’t have the funding there to assist with medical expenses,” she said

“She is struggling to cover rent, living

expenses, and essential medical costs, this will help keep a roof over her head and put food on the table.”

Ms Connell works as a lived experience consultant for McAuley with her role involving her drawing on her experience as a victim-survivor of family violence in order to assist in designing programs for women and children.

In addition, Ms Connell also helps to mentor other victim-survivors, who want to get involved in advisory and advocacy work and represents McAuley in its community education work and advocacy to the government.

Details: gofundme.com/f/ support-fordianas-medical-journey

are helping organisations drive more revenue through our innovative real-time marketing function.”

Mr Griffiths said he is also confident INTIX will be a game-changer for events in the UK.

“We empower events with the tools they need to improve efficiency, increase value for money,andbetterunderstandthefullcustomer experience and journey,” he said.

“Iamthrilledtobeappointedintheroleand am confident that INTIX will soon be just as well known in UK sport as it is in Australia.”

Have

a say on port area plan

The state government has released the Williamstown Local Port Area Plan, which will provide direction on the future of the precinct’s five piers and jetties.

As the relevant local port manager Parks Victoria led the project which was developed to understand the use and function of the port facilities.

Late last year, stakeholders and key users gave feedback on the current facilitiesandfutureactivitiesthey’dlike to see at Williamstown that informed the final plan.

The state government said proposed outcomes include the already funded vital repairs to Workshops Pier to improve commercial vessel berthing at Seaworks.

Aswellasadditionalimprovementsto harbour safety, access and function will be achieved through proposed plans to streamline future dredging in the precinct and upgrade Boyd Street Pier for berthing of commercial vessels and emergency response services.

Williamstown MP Melissa Horne said work on the Williamstown plan has been completed following extensive community feedback.

“Developing local port area plans for these popular waterside destinations helps safeguard maritime heritage, tourism potential, and direct future investment where it’s needed most,” she said.

“Consulting with community and stakeholders was essential so we could deliver a tailored local port area plan and ensure these valuable precincts serve our businesses and communities’ changing needs in the future.”

The Williamstown Local Port Area Plan can be viewed at www.engage.vic. gov.au

Diana Connell. (Supplied)

Over 50’s health centre now open in Hobsons Bay

Hobsons Bay’s over 50’s community will now have exclusive access to state-of-the-art fitness equipment and exercise physiologists after Avanti Health Centre (Avanti) officially opened its doors at 196 Hall Street, Spotswood.

Avanti CEO Darryl Grundy said this is the company’sfourthcentre,joiningcounterparts in Caloundra, Southport, and Townsville, in their bid to provide a customised health and fitness experience for those over 50.

“Less than 20 per cent of Australians aged over 50 meet the physical activity guidelines, and this is compounded by the social isolation affecting both physical and mental health,” said Mr Grundy.

“Hobsons Bay boasts a vibrant community, with more than 30 per cent of its residents aged 50 and over, so we felt it was the right location to establish this centre as a place wherethecommunitycanfeelsafe,supported, and comfortable whilst pursuing their health goals.

“Our extensive market research has found that many Australians over the age of 50 feel intimidated by commercial gyms, so we created a concept that offers a welcoming interior design, quality equipment and specialist support to encourage health and wellbeing.”

An exclusive part of Avanti’s service offering is its HUR fitness equipment, which Mr Grundy said is specifically designed for senior exercise, rehabilitation, and wellness.

“HUR equipment is safe and adjusts the weight and number of repetitions programmed for the user,” said Mr Grundy. Services are also supported by exercise physiologists and evidence-based programs.

“Avanti’s exercise physiologists will conduct a health assessment for each member upon sign up and create a custom exercise routine

using the HUR equipment.”

Avanti Hobson Bay Centre Manager Bay Abbey said he’s looking forward to growing Avanti’s community at its Hobsons Bay location.

“Exercise is not just about physical fitness, it’s essential to healthy aging as it improves bone density, muscle strength and overall mobility, enabling people to lead a more active and fulfilling lifestyle,” said Mr Abbey.

“Avanti is as much of a place to exercise as it is a place to meet new people and feel

connected to a community of like-minded individuals.

“As we age, our inner circle changes and we often have to seek a sense of belonging elsewhere, which is what we hope to provide for members at our new Hobsons Bay location.”

Williamstown MP Melissa Horne said she was thrilled the area had been chosen as the location for Victoria’s first facility.

“I am thrilled for the opening of Victoria’s first over 50’s health centre in Hobsons Bay,”

she said.

“The initiative symbolises the dedication to prioritising the health and wellbeing of our citizens.

“Providing tailored care for these active citizens underscores our commitment to fostering a community where everyone, regardless of age, can thrive and lead healthy lives.”

Contact Avanti Health Centre Hobsons Bay to book an obligation free tour of the facility.

Williamstown MP Melissa Horne, Darryl Grundy and Sue-Ellen Toby.

MY PLACE

Maribyrnong citizen of the year and president of the The Maribyrnong Truck Action Group (MTAG) Martin Wurt, tells Jennifer Pittorino about his work in Maribyrnong and his connection to the west.

Tell us a bit about you and what you do?

After moving to Yarraville, I questioned the number of trucks on our streets and discovered a link between diesel exhaust and cancer. I figured I had two choices, move or getactive.Beingalreadyinlovewiththewest, I decided to get active. I’ve been involved in MTAG now for 18-plus years. Our aim is simple – less trucks on residential streets and reduced air and noise pollution.

Tell us about how you feel about being named citizen of the year?

It’s an honour, I never expected to be recognised for my advocacy efforts. The award is not just for me, it’s really for MTAG and all the amazing people who have given their time over the years. And what a battle, there’s over eight million truck movements each year in Maribyrnong.

What does this mean to you?

This award highlights the long fight to get trucks off our streets but also, it’s a chance to reflect on close to 19 years of campaigning and our achievements. These include truck curfews, moves to phase out the oldest most polluting trucks, major freight on rail projects and the promised West Gate Tunnel truck bans.

What’s your connection to Maribyrnong or Hobsons Bay?

I’ve lived in Yarraville for over 30 years, it’s my home. With my partner, we’ve raised a family here, it’s where so many of our best memories have been made, it’s where most of our friends live and where we feel most comfortable.

What do you like about where you live?

IloveYarraville’sproximitytothecity,thesense of community, the public transport, Yarraville village and I love the diversity of the west.

What, if anything, would you change about where you live?

You guessed it, getting trucks off our streets. The truck issue is one of the longest running examples of environmental injustice in our state. Maribyrnong has some of Victoria’s worst health stats for disease caused by pollution. Our adolescent asthma rates are 50%abovethestateaverage,thatmustchange.

We’re promised 24-7 truck bans on most of

Donations matched

Donations made to Big Group Hug will be matched on March 20 for Double Donation Day.

For one day only all donations made will be matched by a group of generous donors who share the group’s vision of working together to protect every young person from the adverse effects of disadvantage.

Big Group Hug provides essential items for struggling families such as clothing, formula, cots, prams, car seats and toiletries for newborns to children aged 16 years of age.

The demand for aid is ever-increasing.

In the 2023 financial year, Big Group Hug provided aid for 6002 children, representing a 41 per cent increase on the previous year. Hospitals have been requesting more material aid for newborns, resulting in the need for essential items like prams, car seats, bouncers,

highchairs, and safety gates at an all-time high.

Every dollar raised will help young people, newborns to 16-year-olds, who have fled domestic violence, are living in kinship care or out of home care, or whose family is struggling to provide the essentials they need to thrive.

Pressroom Philanthropy, Mortgage Choice Charity Foundation, The Growth Collective, SCRgroup and Eltham Rotary Club are among those who will match the donations.

“On Double Donation Day, we call on all supporterstogivegenerouslyandhelpusmake a difference in the lives of vulnerable children,“ Big Group Hug said.

“It’s a tough time for many right now, but every contribution, no matter how small, will go twice as far on March 20 and will make a big difference to children facing disadvantage.”

Details: www.charidy.com/biggrouphug.

our streets when the West Gate Tunnel opens, this will be a real game changer. However, the tunnel vent stacks are not getting filters. We may get the trucks off our streets but we are missing the opportunity to filter the pollution that will pour out of the stacks. This technology is readily available now.

Where is your favourite local place to spend time?

There’s too many to mention…Maribyrnong River, Willy beach, Yarraville Gardens, Cruikshank Park, Williamstown Botanical gardens…

Tell us something people would be surprised

to know about you.

I’m a photographer who has specialised in workingwithnon-governmentalorganisations. It’s been a privilege in my career to travel to many remote communities around the world and see the positive difference that aid makes.

Is there anything else you would like to say?

Williamstown Road is not getting a truck ban, it’s actually projected to get a doubling of trucks. It’s disappointing that a $10.5 billion project will actually make life worse for some. The west is such an amazing place to live, together we can make it even better.

Big Group Hug’s donations will be matched for a day. (Supplied)

Martin Wurt. (Jacob Pattison) 390871_06

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

Holy Family Parish

The Holy Family Parish in Maidstone is hosting an Alpha Night. Free meal and chance to chat. People from all backgrounds, faith, and walk of life are welcome. Every Wednesday from March 6-May 22, at 6.45-8.45pm, at Holy Family Parish Small Hall, 15 Lyons Street Maidstone.

■ Angelo Ramnac,0409 406 611 or aramnac@bigpond.com

Women Talk: 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 on Fridays between 10am-12pm.

■ 9391 8504, outlets@outletsco-op.com. au or at 43 Mason St, Newport.

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 this fun and welcoming group of singers. There are no auditions and 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 0418386147 or email 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-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, March 15. 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 (two 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 Thursdays until March 21, from 10-11am at the Maribyrnong Community Centre, 9 Randall Street, Maribyrnong. Cost is $10 a session and $6 for concession ■ 90324305 or maricomm@maribyrnong. vic.gov.au

Charity Golf Day

Hobsons Bay Community Fund will be holding their ninth Annual Charity Golf Day on Wednesday, March 20, hosted by Kooringal Golf Club. Sponsors, players and supporters are welcome to join the fun and support the Hobsons Bay community. https://events.humanitix.com/hbcf2024

Newport Jazz Festival

Running from May 3-5 this year’s festival will feature a stellar line-up of musicians in

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of science teacher Sharelle Brownbill, who has been given a $10,000 grant to further her STEM studies.

(Damjan Janevski) 391167_01

38 bands. Headliners include jazz legend Bob Sedergreen, dynamic traditional band Shiraz, the groovy Adam Rudegeair plus Newport’s own and Melbourne’s sweetheart vocalist Julie O’Hara.

■ www.melbournejazzjammers.com.au

Free parent support Hobsons Bay Council’s new support group, ’Tuning in to Teens’ is designed to help parents with a range of teenage topics. These include understanding your teen better, helping your teen to manage difficult emotions, helping to prevent behavioural issues in your teen and teach your teen how to deal with conflict more effectively. Tuning in to Teens is a free six-session parenting program designed for parents of teens. The second term will run on Mondays from 6.30-8.30pm, commencing May 20.

■ 9932 4000 or youth@hobsonsbay.vic. gov.au

Hobsons Bay City Band

Musicians welcome. Do you play any percussion, brass or woodwind instruments? The Hobsons Bay City Band is seeking musicians to join their community band. Please note that rehearsals are held under the directorship of Wayne Bowden every Monday evening from 7.30pm at the Newport Bowls Club, 4 Market Street, Newport. ■ hbcityband@gmail.com orwww.hbcb. org.au

Junior surf boat rowing

Wanting to hit the water and try rowing surf boats? The Williamstown Lifesaving Club is hosting come and try days for junior surf boats. Come and try this unique experience for juniors.

■ info@williamstownslsc.org.au

West Footscray Rotary

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

■ Mike 0417 622 372

Cherry Lake Market

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

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 their community.

■ www.rotarypointgellibrand.com.au, Pam, 0418 347 691, or rotarypointgellibrand@ gmail.com

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 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

Laverton Community Choir

Laverton Community Choir is searching for 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

Form Support

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

■ 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 –Williamstown

Regular meetings of Alcoholics Anonymous are held at St Andrew’s Church Hall, Williamstown, Wednesday at 7pm and Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Newport, Thursday 6.30pm and Saturday 8.30am. All welcome including friends and family of people with drinking problems.

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

To

QUICK

ACROSS

1, 19-down Author of Alice'sAdventuresin Wonderland (5,7)

4 Practical (9)

9 Controller of meeting (5)

10 Ship’s petty officer (9)

11 Birds of prey (6)

12 Severe or harmful (8)

14 Makes a good point (10)

15 – de toilette (3)

17 Extraterrestrial craft (1.1.1)

19 Black and white (10)

23 Period of instruction (8)

24 Protozoan (6)

26 Music-makers (9)

27 Soldier of Hebrew Bible (5)

28 Replicated (9)

29 Sham (5)

DECODER

DOWN

1 Cabinet (6)

2 Argue noisily and angrily (7)

3 Waitstaff (7)

4 Bars (4)

5 Extremely greedy (10)

6 Govern incompetently (7)

7 Acrobatic apparatus (7)

8 Interpret (8)

13 Group of owls (10)

16 Rump (8)

18 Perfect (7)

19 See 1-across

20 Member of ancient Germanic tribe (7)

21 Breastbone (7)

22 Somewhat (6)

25 Utilised (4)

WORDFIT

3 LETTERS

4

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

Today’s Aim:

19 words: Good 28 words: Very good 38 words: Excellent

5 LETTERS ACUTE AGREE AORTA ATONE AWAIT AWARE AZURE CARAT COMET DENIM DETER

No. 175

aims, farm, farms,

1 Who is the creator of comic strip CalvinandHobbes?

2 Myocardial infarction is the medical name for what bodily occurance?

3 Quentin Tarantino’s (pictured) 2021 debut fiction book is a novelisation of which of his films?

4 Belmopan is the capital city of which Central American country?

5 In which decade was the Rubik’s Cube invented?

6 Lion’s mane is one of the largest species of which marine animal?

7 The geometric shape torus can be colloquially described as what kind of shape?

8 The annual music festival Coachella is held in which US state?

9 What is the main flavour of the sweet spread kaya?

10 Novelist and poet James Joyce was born in which country?

No.

No. 175

No.

film, films, firm, firms, foam, foams, form, formal,

FORMALISM, forms, from, imam, immoral, loam, mail, mails, maim, maims, marl, marls, mars, milo, mimosa, moil, moils, molar, moral, moralism, rims, roam, roams, salmi, slam, slim, soma

Toyota coupe in race to catch up

By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring

It has taken more than a decade but the Toyota 86 has finally been given the boost it has deserved, with the third iteration joining the GR Supra and GR Yaris to benefit directly from Toyota’s multi-championship-winning involvement in international motorsport with Toyota Gazoo Racing.

It has some catching up to do.

Evolving from the original 86, launched in Australia in 2012 signalling Toyota’s renewed commitment to sports-car engineering –remembertheSupra,MR2andCelicaGT-Four - the classic front-engine/rear drive coupe has picked up the pace of the past 10 years.

The GR86, says Toyota, builds on this heritage with improved performance, dynamics, technology and styling, while retaining the affordability and usability of its predecessor. There’s no doubting the engineering advances over the original. The GR86autowillhit100km/hinbetween6.3and 6.8 secs, depending on the model, according to the maker.

However, there are some question marks against the pricing and comfort and convenience of the new car. The GR86 comes in two grades GT and GTS in manual and automatic versions. The new GR86 is priced at $43,240,pluson-roadcosts,fortheGTwiththe GTS (the test vehicle) costing $45,390, more than $8000 over the previous model (from $32,180).

As for comfort and convenience, getting in and out of the car can be fraught. Not only is the vehicle close to the ground, the two doors, on the wide side to allow entry to the back seats,havelimitedopeningintightspotsfound in modern public parking, requiring a degree of suppleness. On the plus side, there’s enough space to take four specialist wheels for a day at the track.

The GR86 is covered by Toyota Warranty Advantage, offering five-year unlimited

kilometre coverage extending to seven-years on engine and driveline, with capped-price servicing for the first five years or 75,000km and each 12-month/15,000m service costing $280.

Styling

On the outside, the GR86 retains the outgoing model’s sporty shape and proportions, while Toyota Gazoo Racing’s global motorsport input has added cooling and aerodynamic improvements with a 0.276 coefficient of drag.

Longer and lower than the previous 86, the new GR86 features a long bonnet, sloping rooflineandtaperedrearendwithaprominent lip spoiler, giving the vehicle a low, planted stance. GR badging front and rear.

The GTS has the advantage of intelligent adaptive LED headlights with auto-levelling and headlamp cleaner, LED daytime running lights and rear fog lights. Dual exhaust pipes and GR badging front and rear, plus 18-inch black alloy wheels with 215/40R18 tyres, complete the sporty look.

Interior

The new GR86 is offered in two trim levels, the GT featuring black fabric upholstery, while the GTS wears two-tone Ultrasuede and leather-accented upholstery in black/silver or black/red. While offering four sports-style deep-set seats, the coupe is strictly a 2+2, with rear leg room something of a myth, even with average-size adults in the front.

The 237 litres of luggage space is enough, Toyotaclaims,tocarrythefore-mentionedfour spare wheels for a day of circuit driving, when the rear seats are folded, or to take luggage for a weekend away.

Infotainment

All variants feature an upgraded 8-inch multimedia infotainment system with DAB+ digital radio and compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The screen is

Toyota GR86 GT Manual and Automatic: $43,240

Toyota GR86 GTS Manual and Automatic: $45,390

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

mated with a configurable 7-inch TFT colour LCD display with a Track Mode, designed with help from Toyota Gazoo Racing’s professional drivers, to provide real-time readouts for circuit driving.

The six-speaker audio system is boosted by Active Sound Control for quality sound reproduction, hence occupant enjoyment.

Engines/transmissions

Powering the GR86 is a new 2.4-litre horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine producing a maximum of 174 kW and 250 Nm, at least 22 kW and 38 Nm over the 2-litre motor it takes over from. Pairing with the unit are either a six-speed manual or six-speed torque-converter automatic, with the latter featuring paddle shifters and a range of drive modes to tailor performance to driver preferences.

Straight-line acceleration is also improved, with the GR86 automatic able to sprint from zero to 100km/h in 6.8 seconds.

Safety

Standard equipment across the range includes seven airbags, reversing camera with dynamic guidelines, ABS brakes, vehicle stability control, tyre pressure warning and front/rear seatbelt warnings.

Automatic models add more active safety equipment including pre-collision braking with pedestrian and daytime cyclist detection,

parking support brake with rear parking sensors, active cruise control, and lane departure alert. GTS grades further add rear cross traffic alert and blind spot monitor.

Driving The naturally aspirated boxer engine provides linear throttle response and the ability to rev effortlessly up scale, with technologies including optimised D4-S direct injection helpingtoprovidesignificantlymoretorquefor better mid-range response.

With pleasant memories of the original 86, frankly, I would have traded in the auto transmissionofthetestvehicleforthesix-speed manual any day. More fun.

Toyota advises premium unleaded fuel and claims a combined urban/highway consumption of 8.8 litres per 100 kilometres. The test car recorded 10.7 litres per 100 kilometres in city traffic and 4.9 litres per 100 kilometres on the motorway.

Multiple advances have been made under the skin, including revisions to the suspension and steering, with larger-diameter front brakes and chassis reinforcements that significantly improve torsional and lateral rigidity.

A focus on weight reduction and a lower centre of gravity result in sharper agility, handling and responsiveness. A limited-slip Torsen differential on the rear axle is designed to maximise handling.

Those wanting to take their GR86 to the trackcanalsochoosefromfivedifferentvehicle stability control settings ranging from full on to being completely switched off.

Summary

The GR(-ed) Toyota 86, from the beginning, presented a few challenges. For a start there was the wallet-stripping price increase, then the need for human contortions to get in and out of the extra-low slung seating and finally, a smooth, if uninspiring, automatic driving experience. However, it’s getting there.

After a decade, Toyota is finally a serious sports car contender with its GR86 sports coupe. (Supplied)

Aaron Millichip. 392482_04

Shijit Chandran Poovathingal. 386617_14

Jonathan Burton 386617_03

Simeon Tuilagi. 389832_03

Matthew Krul. 389832_07

Matthew Grose. 386617_08

Rasanjana Jayarathna.

Western Crusaders. 389832_01

Oliver Davidson. 392492_01

Dimantha Fernando. 392482_02

Newport Rams locked into finals

Newport Rams are now locked in for Baseball Victoria summer league men’s premier minor finals after defeating Melbourne on Sunday.

The home side got on the board early on Sunday, scoring a run in the first innings, but it was a high scoring fourth inning that really defined the game.

In the fourth, Melbourne added its first runs, scoring four. Yet, Newport were really able to put them to the sword scoring a big seven runs for the innings.

Melbourne scored another two runs in the sixth inning to bring them to within just two runs, however a victory sealing run in the eighth inning from Newport put the game to bed. With Newport winning 9-6.

The Rams faced Doncaster last night, after deadline, and will play Melbourne again on Saturday, this time away for the final match before finals.

In the premier league division, while Williamstown Wolves season is coming to an

end.

After finishing runners-up in division 2 last season the Wolves were promoted and then made the top half when the competition was split late last year.

On Sunday, the Wolves went down to Sandringham, 10-8.

After scoring the first run of the match in the first inning, Sandringham were able to take back the lead in the second, scoring four of their own.

In the fourth innings, Sandringham added another five runs, but the Wolves responded with four of their own.

Sandringham added another run in the fifth to put it five runs up.

Williamstown kept coming at the home side, scoring three six inning runs, however it was not enough to grab the lead.

The Wolves played Sunshine Eagles at home last night, after deadline, and will face Essendon again at home on Saturday to

conclude the season.

In the women’s premier first season, Footscrayfinisheditsseasonwithanotherloss going down 17-0 to Springvale.

Springvale got its runs off to a slow start scoring one run in both the first and third inning before really exploding in the fourth and fifth.

In the fourth dig Springvale added a huge 11 runs, and added another four in the fifth inning to give them an unassailable lead.

Footscray finished the season in last place, winning just one of its 16 matches.

Newport Rams finished their first season in the top flight in second place and had a bye in the final week as it gets ready for finals on the weekend.

In metro women’s north-west, Williamstown had a 2-2 draw with Preston. The Wolves finished in seventh spot.

Six in a row for Crusaders

By Tara Murray

The records continue to be broken by the Western Crusaders who on Saturday won a sixth straight Gridiron Victoria Vic Pro Bowl.

The dominant force in gridiron in Victoria, the Crusaders best was again on show on Saturday against the Predators in the final.

The Predators tried to dictate play early, but the Crusaders offensive strength shone through when they had the chance.

With a lead at the break, the Crusaders put their foot down in the second half to come away with a 50-16 and another Vic Bowl.

The Vic Bowl was the club’s ninth since 1999.

CrusadersTysonGarnhamsaideverysingle Vic Bowl is special and everyone is different. This season the Crusaders went through undefeated.

“It’s good and in our eyes it’s on to the next one,” he said. “It’s number seven for me, I was part of 2007 as well.

“There’s three or four of us who have been involved in all six in the run.”

Garnham said the match was challenging at the start with the Predators trying to control the play and take time off the clock.

It meant the Crusaders offensive spent plenty of time on the side lines unable to get on. But when they did they made an impact.

“When they did, the offence played really well and scored on pretty much every chance in the first half,” Garnham said.

“We had about 10 plays for three touchdowns. Let us get a lead heading into half time and they weren’t able to come back from there and the score became what it did.”

Garnham said they rotated the bench in the second half to try and get as many players on as they could in the championship game.

The Crusaders, who ran with two sides during the regular season, were limited to just 40 players on the game squad for Saturday, meaning some players missed out.

Garnham said every player that took to

the field was able to play their part and it was disappointing that the others who missed out didn’t get that opportunity.

Rowan Huggins was named the most valuable player of the match, with his performance including two touchdown catches.

The win was extra special with the club claiming its first Vic Bowl at home, hosting the game for the first time.

Garnham said they’re hoping it’s not the last time either having had the club rooms recently upgraded, meaning they are now up to standard.

“To have it on our home ground was really good,” he said. “The founder of the club was there and there were a lot of spectators and a lot of guys that came to watch, it was good.

“Hopefully we can have it here again next year, we all enjoyed it.”

The senior premiership was one of two for the Crusaders, with their under-14s also finishing the season undefeated.

It was a disappointing ending to the under-14s season, with their grand final opponent forfeiting, meaning they didn’t play in a grand final.

Garnham said it was disappointing for the boys season to finish like that and had they known it was going to happen, some of the players could have played in the under-17s preliminary final last week, which they lost.

Garnham said the club would look to go back to the drawing board for next season, as it tries to come home with three premierships with plenty of talent throughout the ranks.

“Every year we reset and get new people in and we have some retire,” he said. “We try to continue to build and get as many people in as we can.

“A lot will look to play state competition in between. Every year is different and we’re not sure what next year will look like.

“Hopefully we go again next year.”

David Tongue (Ljubica Vrankovic)

Western Crusaders title side (Supplied)

Simeon Tuilagi (Jacob Pattison)389832_17

Dakota Alcorace (Jacob Pattison)389832_02

Yarraville Club’s final round thriller

Lastseason’sVictorianTurfCricketAssociation senior division premiers, Yarraville Club, is ready to go again and will kick off its finals campaign against the team it just lost to in a thriller.

On Saturday, Yarraville Club faced Sydenham Hillside in a finals preview like no other,withthematchgoingdowntothesecond last ball of the match.

After batting first the Clubbers posted 9-192 from their 40 overs despite being at 2-8 early in the innings.

Batting at three Michael Hill continued his scintillatingformashemade81.Hillhasscored the most senior division runs this season with 557 at an average of 50.64.

In the chase the Storm was cruising at 1-135, theClubbersbegantogetintotheirworktaking 6-44.TheStormthenrequirednineoffthefinal over for victory with Scottish import Adrian Neill and Alexander Barlas at the crease.

Neill reverse swept the first ball of the final over for four, then inside edged the next one

for two, before rotating the strike giving Barlas the opportunity to strike the winning runs.

The Storm finished their innings on 7-193 with just one ball remaining.

Clubbers’ captain-coach Mitch Johnstone said it was a good game of cricket that felt like a final. The win means the Storm will host the semi final between the two teams this weekend.

“They’re a good side, they’re well rounded and are one of the more cohesive units in the competition,” he said.

“It was a good game of cricket, hard fought, finals like intensity.

“Same opposition, same venue this weekend. They’ve beaten us twice narrowly so it’s time we won the important one.”

Heading into finals Johnstone said his side is as good of a chance of taking out silverware asanyone.Theclubcameupagainstthefellow three finalists the last three rounds, beating Deer Park and Aberfeldie and going down

narrowly on Saturday.

The club has also just lost three games for the season, one by 10 runs and twice in the final over of the match.

“If someone offered me we’d win two of the last three games and just go down in the other, you’d take it,” he said.

“One thing that we’re really proud of is we’re really hard to beat, even if we don’t win.”

Heading into finals from the same position as they finished last year the Clubbers can definitely not be overlooked in this finals series. With their experience and time together only holding them in good stead for the weeks ahead Johnstone said.

“We think we’re the most united, aligned group compared to the other three teams in the four and we think that’ll serve us well come the pressure moments,” he said.

“A lot of our guys have played together for some time now so we know what’s expected of each other and there’s that trust in the contest as well, so, it’s exciting.”

Jarrod Martignago (Ljubica Vrankovic)

Woodsmen regain form

By Tara Murray

Spotswood produced the performance it was after heading into the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association north-west finals.

After being on top for much of the season, the Woodsmen had suffered a couple of losses late in the season to slip to third.

They found some form on Saturday against PlentyValleyinaone-dayertofinishtheseason in second spot.

Woodsmen coach Dan Schuppan said it’s always hard to stay switched on for the whole season.

“We haven’t been playing our best cricket and we’re the first to admit that,” he said. “It’s nice to put out a performance like that.

“The boys were brilliant, fielding was a massive part of that, it’s something we’ve struggled with from our standards.

“I can’t speak for everyone one, but it is hard to stay up for 100 per cent of the time. We want to peak at the right time for the year.”

Schuppan said the final game of the season was similar to last season when they played a

lowly ranked team that really pushed them.

HesaidwhilePlentyValleyhasstruggledthis season, they were wary of what they could do with some good players led by skipper Simon Black.

The Bats batted first and made 9-188 from their overs. Three Woodsmen took two wickets each.

They then chased down the total with ease, finishing 4-189 in 37.1 overs.

Jarrod Martignago top scored with 106 not out at the top of the order.

“It was nice to put out a good batting, bowlingandfieldingperformanceheadinginto next week,” Schuppan said.

Havinglockedinsecondspot,theWoodsmen face Werribee in the first week of finals.

The two teams have had some good battles the last couple of seasons, including the grand final last season.

“They beat us a couple of weeks ago,” Schuppan said. “We want to turn the tables.

“At this stage, we know that our cricket stacks up and is going to challenge anyone in the top six.

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WRFL

Glen Orden will not field a senior men’s team for the upcoming Western Region Football League season. The Hawks were unable to take the field in 2023 for the second time in six seasons and despite attempting to get one up and running for this season it has failed to do so. Instead the Hawks will attempt to field a ‘thirds’ side. The club announced Rod Williams as its coach for the next two seasons in February. An updated fixture is set to be released in the coming days.

Nike F.C Cup

The first two rounds of the 2024 Nike F.C Cup were released with 74 teams learning their fate. Round one will be played on the weekend of March 17 and round two is set to be played on the weekend of March 24. The entrants for round one women’s state league 3, 4 and 5 as well as regional and metropolitan clubs. In round one Yarraville Glory has a bye and Williamstown will play Mooroolbark. In round two, Yarraville Glory will play Aspendale, the Maribyrnong Swifts will play the Bayside Argonauts and Altona City will play Sunbury United.

Big V

“All six are capable to taking it out. There’s 16 teams and only six play finals, so they have to be above average to just play finals.

“Hopefully we can get over the line against Werribee.”

Joining the Woodsmen in finals is Altona which won in the final round to seal sixth spot.

A win in the final round against Williamstown would be enough for the A’s to seal a finals berth.

The A’s made 6-221 from their overs with skipper making 79 before being run out.

Jack Craig took three wickets for the Seagulls.

Cameron Daltera starred at the top of the order for the Seagulls but had little support as the side was restricted to 7-191.

Daltera made 84.

Tom McConville and Adam Yates took two wickets each for the A’s.

The A’s, who finished in sixth, face St Bernard’s in the first week of finals.

Yarraville finished its season with a loss to St Bernard’s.

The fixtures for the upcoming Big V season have been released, with the division 2 men’s competition kicking off on March 16. In round one, the Altona Gators men’s outfit facing Gippsland United on the 17th. In a change to the women’s competition both division 1 and 2 is combined this season. The Gators will start its season off against Blackburn Vikings on the 17th.

VFLW

Williamstown has announced that Eliza Stafford will captain its Victorian Football League women’s side this season. Stafford will be supported by vice-captain Emily Eaves and leadership group Maddie Edwards, Zoe Day, Brittney Gray and Megan Williamson.

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Allister Powell (Ljubica Vrankovic)

Altona City ready for new challenge

There’s a buzz around Altona City as it prepares for life in the Victorian Premier League 2 season.

After winning the state league 1 north-west title last season, Altona City will play in a VPL competition for the first time with the season kicking off this weekend.

Coach Michael Calandrella said the group was ready to get the season underway.

“We know it’s going to be tough stepping up,” he said. “It’s the first time the club has even been in this league.

“It’s good for the club and now the main priority is to remain in the league and consolidate our spot and make Altona City a permanent fixture in this league.”

Calandrella said there was a real buzz around the group and they were ready for the challenge ahead of them.

He said they had been able to keep a large

number of the championship squad heading into this year, which gives them a good starting point.

“We retained all the boys we wanted to retain,” he said. “We’ve managed to get a few good additions and we’re looking steady and we think that we will be competitive.”

Altona City’s first foray into the higher league, hasn’t been smooth with work occurring at its home ground, meaning its been unavailable for the team to train on.

It means the side has spent most of the pre-season away from home and it will continue early in the season.

“It has been quite difficult,” Calandrella said. “We can not wait to be at home and get a bit more stability.

“Majorityofthefirsthalfoftheseasonwe’re awayandthatpresentsachallenge.Thesecond half we have a good run of home games and

we’ll take that to our advantage.

“Wereallyneedtogetsomepointsalongthe way in the first half of the season.”

Altona City kicks off its season against Boroondara on Friday night.

Calandrella said it would be a good challenge for them.

“Judging by last year’s results, it will be a difficult task. We are definitely up for it and after a long pre-season the ways have been waiting for round one.”

Meanwhile, in the National Premier League competition, Altona Magic had a 3-2 loss to Dandenong Thunder.

The Magic led 2-1 at half time before two second half goals sealed the win for the Thunder. The Magic sits in 13th position after four rounds, but has played one less game.

Tara Murray

‘Gulls disappointing end

Williamstown finished a disappointing Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association north-west season with a loss.

The Seagulls have had an inconsistent season but still managed to head into the final round with an equal win-loss ratio, at seven apiece.

Club secretary Jordan Doyle said the club is disappointed it could not play finals.

“The club aims to make the finals and contend for a premiership every year, so to miss out is not where we want to be at all,” he said before the final round of the season.

“We had a couple of games not go our way which has hurt us, but we’ve put ourselves in this position and that’s the way it’s played out.

“We’veshownwhenwe’reatourbestwecan matchitwithanyonebutit’sbeenafrustrating season.”

Despite the season’s ‘frustrations’ there havebeenafewplayerswhohavebeenshining lightswithcoachSeanSturrocksittingsecond in the competition’s wicket tally, with 38 wickets at an average of 11.45.

“There’s been some great individual performances this season,” Doyle said.

“His second half of the year has been incredible.”

First-drop batsman Matt Dervan has also been a standout with 554 runs for the season at an average of 61.56.

“He made 102 on the weekend (round 14), he’s got four scores over 50 in a row now so they’ve definitely been the shining lights,” Doyle said.

To finish the season Williamstown played local rivals Altona, where the A’s needed to win to secure its spot in the finals. Speaking before the game Doyle said this wouldn’t provide any extra motivation for the Seagulls on Saturday.

TheA’smanagedtogetthejobdoneandlock in their finals spot, while piling on another loss for the Seagulls.

The A’s made 6-221 from their overs with skipper making 79 before being run out.

Jack Craig took three wickets for the Seagulls.

CYs sneak into div 2 finals

Despiteafinalroundloss Williamstown CYMS still did enough to make the Victorian Turf Cricket Association McNamara Shield finals.

Several scenarios were still in play heading into the final round. A win would be enough for the CYs to finish fourth.

A loss then they would have to rely on results to go their way.

Facing finals bound Grand United, the CYs bowlers were able to get the job done, bowling the Gorillas out for 118.

Opening bowler Jarion Hoyte took 5-18 off his seven overs to be the chief destroyer.

The CYs were soon in trouble at 2-7 and not long afterwards it was 5-29.

The wickets continued to fall and the CYs were in trouble at 7-41.

Thetailshowedsomeresistance,butit wasn’t enough with the side bowled out for 105.

Matthew Allsop top scored with 37 for the CYs.

With that result, the CYs were watching the Newport-Digman and Tullamarine game, and the Altona Roosters and Greenvale Kangaroos game.

Tullamarine beat Newport-Digman to end their finals hopes. The Demons made 152, with the Rams bowled out for 100 in reply.

Altona Roosters’ preparation for finals was a good one with a win against the Kangaroos, and also ending their finals hopes.

Daltera made 84.

Tom McConville and Adam Yates took two wickets each for the A’s.

In terms of the playing list for the Seagulls, Doyle said player retention is the club’s first priority. Then they will look to areas of their squad they want to strengthen.

“We want to lock away all of our existing squad which we’re working on at the moment, which we’ll have some announcements for soon,” he said.

“From there we’ll look to add to our squad aswell.We’vealsogotsomereallygoodyoung players coming through the second XI who have really blossomed since Christmas. So we think we’re going to be able to bat a bit deeper next year.

“We’d love to add to our group another batter and another bowler as well would be ideal, so we’ll see how that plays out over the next month or two.”

The Kangaroos made 136 with the Roosters getting the runs with nearly 12 overs and nine wickets in hand, finishing 1-140.

The Roosters face the CYs in the first week of finals, with the Gorillas host West Newport, which finished the regular season with a win against Sunbury, in the other semi final.

James

Altona City is hoping to build on last year.

(Jacob Pattison) 343154_04

Matthew Dervan (Jacob Pattison) 372633_05

Cameron Daltera starred at the top of the order for the Seagulls but had little support as the side was restricted to 7-191.