Around Point Cook 21

Issue 21

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www.aroundpointcook.comIssue 21, October 2011

POINT COOK RESIDENTS FIGHT FOR BETTER INFRASTRUCTURE

Point Cook residents and local families are outraged about a State Government push to handover 443 hectares of Melbourne’s ‘green wedge’ in Point Cook to housing developers.

More housing development in Point Cook is going to lead to a greater demand on the local infrastructure. Local residents have joined forces to send a message that they want the infrastructure to keep up with current needs before more housing is developed.

Recently, the State Government’s Growth Areas Authority recommended that houses be built on ‘green wedge’ land bordering Point Cook Road, Aviation Road and Hacketts Road.

Shadow Minister for Planning, Brian Tee met with the residents at the rally.

Mr Tee said people living in Point Cook have paid for the lifestyle and health benefits of living near open land that includes wetlands and they want this preserved for their families.

“They know that once the “green wedge” is gone it is gone forever.

“With up to 3000 new houses, the community is rightly concerned about more congestion on roads and the ability of schools and community facilities to cope with this influx,” Mr Tee said.

Page 1

The Around Point Cook Community Newspaper is distributed in Point Cook.

continued page 3

I’ve been involved in a most interesting project initiated by Michael Daley from Hobsons Bay Council for the construction of ‘Raised Garden Beds’ intended to be supplied hopefully without charge to clients who receive Home Care or Meals on Wheels from Council.Part of a ‘Nutrition and Health’ program the aim is to grow vegetables so fresh they almost walk from the ‘Raised Garden Bed’ outside the kitchen door to the pot with a little help from the resident, who, in a lot of cases, can no longer reach the ground or dig.It is hoped to be a no/low cost project using recycled materials such as the wooden non returnable pallets used throughout Australia for the delivery of paper to commercial printers and non returnable fruit containers, all of which are being dumped at the moment. The Hobsons Bay Mens Shed is developing the pilot kits ready for the Williamstown Rotary group to install on site.

The beds bring the level of soil to just under a meter from the ground and the basic unit is roughly a meter square. The design allows for an extension of the units if a larger bed is required.If you would like to help, please phone a local printer and ask if we may pick up their redundant pallets.Until next month,

Bill McPherson

Issue 21Page 2

EDITORS COLUMN Update on the local residents meeting in Alamanda

PUDDLING WITH THE PUBLISHER

With this lovely weather our lawns are going wild, the insects are increasing but we are getting some lovely outdoors time. It has been excellent to see the outdoor areas at the Point Cook Town Centre come to life creating a very enjoyable vibe. It has been lovely not having to don the jumper 24/7 too. A big thank you to those who have sent through contributions this month. Especially Lisa, who represented the paper at the Point Cook Residents meeting.Have a fantastic month. I hope you enjoy this issue.

Regards,Daniel

Volunteer EditorAround Point Cook

The Point Cook Action Group / Residents’ Association held a meeting at the Alamanda Café on Monday 12th September. Approximately 50 people came along to discuss some pressing local issues.

Local Councillors were in attendance. Residents suggested to the group that they need to implement a structure and a strategy in order to be heard by the local council and suggested that the group be incorporated.

Several issues were discussed at the meeting such as; parking around schools, child care, neighbourhood watch, swimming pool campaign, broadband, public transport and post office facilities, to name a few.

It was resolved at the meeting to develop action plans for the future.

If you want to get involved, join the Point Cook Residents Facebook page, or contact Claire via email on: [email protected]

Thanks to Lisa Clements for attending the meeting on behalf of the paper.

A simple way to recycle and renew

Issue 21 Page 3

The Member for Altona, Jill Hennessy, said Point Cook residents were worried about the impact of further population on already stressed local services and infrastructure.

“Mr Guy needs to come down to Point Cook and talk to residents about what they want for their community instead of telling them what he wants.

“Local services and roads are already under pressure from growth and now Mr Guy wants more families to move to Point Cook without any plan to make sure there are enough schools and other vital community services,” Ms Hennessy said.

There will be another opportunity early in October to make a stand. An evening community event will be held in Alamanda to allow for working families and residents to have their say on this issue. The Shadow Minister for Planning will be there along with Jill Hennessy MP. For further information keep an eye on the www.facebook.com/JillHennessyMP page.

If you would like to get involved, contact Jill Hennessy’s Electorate Office on 9395 0221.

from front page

I’ve been involved in a most interesting project initiated by Michael Daley from Hobsons Bay Council for the construction of ‘Raised Garden Beds’ intended to be supplied hopefully without charge to clients who receive Home Care or Meals on Wheels from Council.Part of a ‘Nutrition and Health’ program the aim is to grow vegetables so fresh they almost walk from the ‘Raised Garden Bed’ outside the kitchen door to the pot with a little help from the resident, who, in a lot of cases, can no longer reach the ground or dig.It is hoped to be a no/low cost project using recycled materials such as the wooden non returnable pallets used throughout Australia for the delivery of paper to commercial printers and non returnable fruit containers, all of which are being dumped at the moment. The Hobsons Bay Mens Shed is developing the pilot kits ready for the Williamstown Rotary group to install on site.

The beds bring the level of soil to just under a meter from the ground and the basic unit is roughly a meter square. The design allows for an extension of the units if a larger bed is required.If you would like to help, please phone a local printer and ask if we may pick up their redundant pallets.Until next month,

Bill McPherson

Issue 21Page 2

EDITORS COLUMN Update on the local residents meeting in Alamanda

PUDDLING WITH THE PUBLISHER

With this lovely weather our lawns are going wild, the insects are increasing but we are getting some lovely outdoors time. It has been excellent to see the outdoor areas at the Point Cook Town Centre come to life creating a very enjoyable vibe. It has been lovely not having to don the jumper 24/7 too. A big thank you to those who have sent through contributions this month. Especially Lisa, who represented the paper at the Point Cook Residents meeting.Have a fantastic month. I hope you enjoy this issue.

Regards,Daniel

Volunteer EditorAround Point Cook

The Point Cook Action Group / Residents’ Association held a meeting at the Alamanda Café on Monday 12th September. Approximately 50 people came along to discuss some pressing local issues.

Local Councillors were in attendance. Residents suggested to the group that they need to implement a structure and a strategy in order to be heard by the local council and suggested that the group be incorporated.

Several issues were discussed at the meeting such as; parking around schools, child care, neighbourhood watch, swimming pool campaign, broadband, public transport and post office facilities, to name a few.

It was resolved at the meeting to develop action plans for the future.

If you want to get involved, join the Point Cook Residents Facebook page, or contact Claire via email on: [email protected]

Thanks to Lisa Clements for attending the meeting on behalf of the paper.

A simple way to recycle and renew

Issue 21 Page 3

The Member for Altona, Jill Hennessy, said Point Cook residents were worried about the impact of further population on already stressed local services and infrastructure.

“Mr Guy needs to come down to Point Cook and talk to residents about what they want for their community instead of telling them what he wants.

“Local services and roads are already under pressure from growth and now Mr Guy wants more families to move to Point Cook without any plan to make sure there are enough schools and other vital community services,” Ms Hennessy said.

There will be another opportunity early in October to make a stand. An evening community event will be held in Alamanda to allow for working families and residents to have their say on this issue. The Shadow Minister for Planning will be there along with Jill Hennessy MP. For further information keep an eye on the www.facebook.com/JillHennessyMP page.

If you would like to get involved, contact Jill Hennessy’s Electorate Office on 9395 0221.

from front page

Page 5

THE HON JULIA GILLARD MP Prime Minister , Member for Lalor

Bank of Melbourne Point Cook is now open

The public debate on the Government’s plan to put a price on carbon pollution has been rigorous. Unfortunately, however, Tony Abbott and his colleagues have not always been honest.

Under the Government’s plan for a Clean Energy Future, households will receive assistance to help families balance their budgets. This assistance will come through a combination of extra payments and tax cuts.

When the carbon price starts in July next year, the Government will provide assistance to Australian households to help meet the expected average price increases to things like food and electricity as a result of putting a price on carbon pollution.

It is expected that the carbon price will add 0.7% to the Consumer Price Index. That is less than a cent for every dollar spent. The impact of the GST on the CPI was 2.5%.

A family with two children with a total annual income of $85,000 is expected to face average price increases of $570 per year due to the carbon price. They will receive assistance of

around $948 per year through tax cuts and increased Family assistance payments. In other words, they will be $378 per year better off.

Single rate pensioners will get a pension increase of $338 per year, and on average will be $134 better off after carbon price impacts. Pensioner couples will get $510 per year extra and will be $226 better off compared to average carbon price impacts.

The Government’s household assistance package is permanent and ongoing and will be indexed to the CPI. The Government will ensure the ongoing adequacy of Household Assistance.

The Government’s Clean Energy Future package is about protecting our economy, creating jobs and protecting the environment for our children and grandchildren.

Climate change is real and my Government is getting on with the job of providing proper assistance to households as we move to a clean energy future.

NATIONAL HEALTH REFORM FINALISED

For all your personal and business banking, visit the newly opened Bank of Melbourne branch located in the Point Cook Town Centre.

Our new branch features the latest technology, including a coin deposit machine, to help with bulk coin deposits, and a new ATM, which incorporates technology to make cheque deposits faster and easier.

Branch Manager Sue Reynolds is pleased to be able to offer for personal and business customers a core range of banking products. From competitive home loans, which could see you own your home sooner, to savings and investment accounts to help you realise your financial goals. Plus you’ll have access to our specialist team of a lending manager,

relationship manager, financial planner, and insurance specialist.

The team at Bank of Melbourne Point Cook are happy to talk you through a range of banking options to find the one that best suits your circumstances.

So visit Bank of Melbourne Point Cook Town Centre, say hello to Sue and her team. If you have banking questions, they'd love to help.

Bank of Melbourne Point Cook

Coles Precinct

phone 8366 1500

Page 4 Issue 21 Issue 21

Page 5

THE HON JULIA GILLARD MP Prime Minister , Member for Lalor

Bank of Melbourne Point Cook is now open

The public debate on the Government’s plan to put a price on carbon pollution has been rigorous. Unfortunately, however, Tony Abbott and his colleagues have not always been honest.

Under the Government’s plan for a Clean Energy Future, households will receive assistance to help families balance their budgets. This assistance will come through a combination of extra payments and tax cuts.

When the carbon price starts in July next year, the Government will provide assistance to Australian households to help meet the expected average price increases to things like food and electricity as a result of putting a price on carbon pollution.

It is expected that the carbon price will add 0.7% to the Consumer Price Index. That is less than a cent for every dollar spent. The impact of the GST on the CPI was 2.5%.

A family with two children with a total annual income of $85,000 is expected to face average price increases of $570 per year due to the carbon price. They will receive assistance of

around $948 per year through tax cuts and increased Family assistance payments. In other words, they will be $378 per year better off.

Single rate pensioners will get a pension increase of $338 per year, and on average will be $134 better off after carbon price impacts. Pensioner couples will get $510 per year extra and will be $226 better off compared to average carbon price impacts.

The Government’s household assistance package is permanent and ongoing and will be indexed to the CPI. The Government will ensure the ongoing adequacy of Household Assistance.

The Government’s Clean Energy Future package is about protecting our economy, creating jobs and protecting the environment for our children and grandchildren.

Climate change is real and my Government is getting on with the job of providing proper assistance to households as we move to a clean energy future.

NATIONAL HEALTH REFORM FINALISED

For all your personal and business banking, visit the newly opened Bank of Melbourne branch located in the Point Cook Town Centre.

Our new branch features the latest technology, including a coin deposit machine, to help with bulk coin deposits, and a new ATM, which incorporates technology to make cheque deposits faster and easier.

Branch Manager Sue Reynolds is pleased to be able to offer for personal and business customers a core range of banking products. From competitive home loans, which could see you own your home sooner, to savings and investment accounts to help you realise your financial goals. Plus you’ll have access to our specialist team of a lending manager,

relationship manager, financial planner, and insurance specialist.

The team at Bank of Melbourne Point Cook are happy to talk you through a range of banking options to find the one that best suits your circumstances.

So visit Bank of Melbourne Point Cook Town Centre, say hello to Sue and her team. If you have banking questions, they'd love to help.

Bank of Melbourne Point Cook

Coles Precinct

phone 8366 1500


The Lake Eyre Yacht Club - “Ya gotta be jokin’ ... No we’re not”. The club was formed on 1st April, 2000. The club’s most recent sailing regatta was held this year from the 10th to 15th July, 2011. Earlier in March when the lake was filling with water, the South Australian Government were in discussions with the native title claimants of Lake Eyre who wanted to ban 'sailing' on the lake. The club’s regatta was conducted at Lake Killamperunna, Cooper Creek. Thirty four boats were registered as competing with eighty-six adults and seventeen children involved. At the presentation dinner long distance travel awards were made to sailors who came from West Australia, Queensland and Tasmania.

Any sailing trip on Lake Eyre requires a lot more preparation and planning. As lake water levels recede, sailors have to be prepared to carry their boat to a launching spot after walking over sand, then mudflats and through knee deep sludge to reach 60cm of water.

Catamarans are the popular choice of sail boat but canoes, kayaks, dinghies and other flat bottomed boats are best in varying depths of heavily salted water. Sailors are advised to take supplies of fresh water and a radio, and limit travel to 10 km hops. A hand held GPS is a very useful navigation device whether on the water or on land in this remote area.

Page 6

Recently I returned from a trip to the outback of South Australia. My goal was to fly over Lake Eyre and see the changing colors of the water levels in the lake. After heavy rains in Queensland during December and January, the lake has had its biggest influx of flood water since 2000 and 1989. Lake Eyre is fairly remote – vehicle access is by two 4WD routes via the Oodnadatta Track. A stretch of Lake Eyre South shoreline can be accessed from a road side stop on the Oodnadatta track about 90km west of Marree. Our travel group found you can walk for miles before reaching the lake shore. In August, the shore line was receding as the saltwater in the lake was evaporating, creating mirages on the horizon. I was expecting to find flocks of birds but it was at the junction of the Oodnadatta and Birdsville tracks that I discovered the Lake Eyre Yacht Club.

Try sailing on Lake Eyre Community Information meeting on Green Wedge Housing

Page 7

There will be a community information meeting on the 6th October, 7:30pm at Club Alamanda, Point Cook.

This meeting is in response to the Baillieu Government’s Growth Areas Authority recommendation that houses be built on ‘green wedge’ land in Point Cook. It is to follow up on the recent rally held in Point Cook about green wedge land being used for a housing development.

Jill Hennessy, Member for Altona said many members of the local community had the understanding that open space bounded by Point Cook Road, Hackett’s Road and Aviation Road would not, and could not, be built upon due to planning.

Point Cook residents are concerned about these recommendations and the pressure this will have on local infrastructure.

“With up to 3000 new houses proposed, the community is rightly concerned about more congestion on roads and the ability of schools and community facilities to cope with this influx”, Ms Hennessy said.

“Residents want an assurance that adequate services and infrastructure will be provided before considering further housing developments on green wedge land,” Ms Hennessy said.

Several speakers will be speaking, including opposition planning minister, Brian Tee MP.

Details of the meeting are:

7.30pm; Thursday 6th of October

Club Alamanda,

Corner of Alamanda Blvd & Paradise Pde, Point Cook.

Melways Map 207 H.8

For further information please call the Altona Electorate Office on (03) 9395 0221

The website for the LEYC

gives lots of information about

sailing on the lake. Go to www.

lakeeyreyc.com and for footage

of a catamaran sailing in the July

regatta go to www.youtube.com/

LakeEyre2011CooperCreekrace

Issue 21 Issue 21

The Lake Eyre Yacht Club - “Ya gotta be jokin’ ... No we’re not”. The club was formed on 1st April, 2000. The club’s most recent sailing regatta was held this year from the 10th to 15th July, 2011. Earlier in March when the lake was filling with water, the South Australian Government were in discussions with the native title claimants of Lake Eyre who wanted to ban 'sailing' on the lake. The club’s regatta was conducted at Lake Killamperunna, Cooper Creek. Thirty four boats were registered as competing with eighty-six adults and seventeen children involved. At the presentation dinner long distance travel awards were made to sailors who came from West Australia, Queensland and Tasmania.

Any sailing trip on Lake Eyre requires a lot more preparation and planning. As lake water levels recede, sailors have to be prepared to carry their boat to a launching spot after walking over sand, then mudflats and through knee deep sludge to reach 60cm of water.

Catamarans are the popular choice of sail boat but canoes, kayaks, dinghies and other flat bottomed boats are best in varying depths of heavily salted water. Sailors are advised to take supplies of fresh water and a radio, and limit travel to 10 km hops. A hand held GPS is a very useful navigation device whether on the water or on land in this remote area.

Page 6

Recently I returned from a trip to the outback of South Australia. My goal was to fly over Lake Eyre and see the changing colors of the water levels in the lake. After heavy rains in Queensland during December and January, the lake has had its biggest influx of flood water since 2000 and 1989. Lake Eyre is fairly remote – vehicle access is by two 4WD routes via the Oodnadatta Track. A stretch of Lake Eyre South shoreline can be accessed from a road side stop on the Oodnadatta track about 90km west of Marree. Our travel group found you can walk for miles before reaching the lake shore. In August, the shore line was receding as the saltwater in the lake was evaporating, creating mirages on the horizon. I was expecting to find flocks of birds but it was at the junction of the Oodnadatta and Birdsville tracks that I discovered the Lake Eyre Yacht Club.

Try sailing on Lake Eyre Community Information meeting on Green Wedge Housing

Page 7

There will be a community information meeting on the 6th October, 7:30pm at Club Alamanda, Point Cook.

This meeting is in response to the Baillieu Government’s Growth Areas Authority recommendation that houses be built on ‘green wedge’ land in Point Cook. It is to follow up on the recent rally held in Point Cook about green wedge land being used for a housing development.

Jill Hennessy, Member for Altona said many members of the local community had the understanding that open space bounded by Point Cook Road, Hackett’s Road and Aviation Road would not, and could not, be built upon due to planning.

Point Cook residents are concerned about these recommendations and the pressure this will have on local infrastructure.

“With up to 3000 new houses proposed, the community is rightly concerned about more congestion on roads and the ability of schools and community facilities to cope with this influx”, Ms Hennessy said.

“Residents want an assurance that adequate services and infrastructure will be provided before considering further housing developments on green wedge land,” Ms Hennessy said.

Several speakers will be speaking, including opposition planning minister, Brian Tee MP.

Details of the meeting are:

7.30pm; Thursday 6th of October

Club Alamanda,

Corner of Alamanda Blvd & Paradise Pde, Point Cook.

Melways Map 207 H.8

For further information please call the Altona Electorate Office on (03) 9395 0221

The website for the LEYC

gives lots of information about

sailing on the lake. Go to www.

lakeeyreyc.com and for footage

of a catamaran sailing in the July

regatta go to www.youtube.com/

LakeEyre2011CooperCreekrace

Issue 21 Issue 21

Page 9

Kids Teaching Kids Conference

The second annual KTK conference at both campuses of Carranballac College Point Cook has now concluded, and it was a success yet again. This year ‘s event, organised by the Student Environment Council, was a true ‘conference’ style event and had opening addresses at both campuses, by members of the Kids Teaching Kids organisation, with sponsorship from Australia Post.

Student Environment Council News


At the official opening of the Kids Teaching Kids Week at Boardwalk Campus, Year 7 Brown student Taylor Carr welcomed Michelle Sanders of the ‘Kids Teaching Kids’ organization inviting her to open our KTK week. Michelle amused students when she asked them to call out loudly, “Kids Teaching Kids!” She was ably assisted in this by Orlando Dams from P/1 Jade and presented him with a new Australia Post sunhat. Shown here is Michelle with Orlando at the microphone while looking on is Taylor and College Director Mr. Peter Kearney.

Students were actively involved in a range of conference activities such a guest lectures and workshops, demonstrations and theatre performances.

City West Water provided engineers Katie Burns at Jamieson Way Campus and Alex Svasas at Boardwalk Campus, to speak to Years 7-9 on the provision of alternative water supplies for our school grounds. Their talks were aimed to show career options for male and female students, to promote science and to give an understanding of what is involved in the ‘new water’ which will be used at the campuses in the near future.

Some Year 5/6 students using a pH meter in water and soil quality testing.

How oil breaks surface tension and makes this cut out fish move forward.

Melbourne Water provided each campus with their interactive stormwater trailer and teacher, to show how much our communities rely on efficient water systems, for drinking, stormwater and sewerage, including natural drainage through wetlands, creek and river systems.

City West Water also sponsored Our Planet Enterprises to conduct a very amusing and educational theatre performance of “Cloudia Raindrop” for the Year 3/4s, based on the water cycle.

Years P/1/2 had a visit from Mary Boberic from RED (Recycling + Education can make a Difference), who will be engaged to introduce a scheme for recycling of flexible and rigid plastic in Term 3.

Our own Student Environment Councillors from Yr 5 & 6 wrote and played out a short skit based on the 3Rs, which they performed for the Yrs P/1 & 2, and it proved to be a very educational and funny piece of work.

Then all students took part in workshops in their own classrooms where they taught other students about facets of their science program, or activities based on water.The Kids Teaching Kids organisation, with backing from Australia Post, was very generous in their support of our conference.

The SEC wishes to thank all participants and supporters for helping make the conference a great success.

Page 28 Issue 21

Rotary Club of Laverton Point CookMembership has really taken off in recent months at the Rotary Club of Laverton Point Cook with membership up by 40% since May 2011.People from a variety of age groups, ethnic backgrounds and vocational backgrounds have been joining in response to the many benefits that come with Rotary membership. The club’s revamped program has proven to be a real winner

with a more flexible meeting program and more regular activities that provide its members and supporters with opportunities to find enjoyment and fulfilment in its various activities. These activities are helping ‘build a better local community’, which is the club theme for the year.Recent and planned activities in the Point Cook, include tree planting near Jamieson Community Centre, participation in the Point Cook Fiesta, toys purchased for Little Buddies Toy Library, participation in the Point Cook Senior College Careers night, scholarships for local schools and support for disadvantaged youth via the Les Twentyman 20th Man Fund.Rotary of today no longer has the stringent requirements of yester year and is far more accommodating to your family and work situation in our time poor modern world So if you would like to make new friends and find fulfilment in helping others then Rotary is for you. To find out more about us please go to our website at www.rotarylpc.org.au or contact Frank Spiteri m 0412361 144

Chris Egger

Page 9Issue 21

How oil breaks surface tension and makes this cut out fish move forward.

Melbourne Water provided each campus with their interactive stormwater trailer and teacher, to show how much our communities rely on efficient water systems, for drinking, stormwater and sewerage, including natural drainage through wetlands, creek and river systems.

City West Water also sponsored Our Planet Enterprises to conduct a very amusing and educational theatre performance of “Cloudia Raindrop” for the Year 3/4s, based on the water cycle.

Years P/1/2 had a visit from Mary Boberic from RED (Recycling + Education can make a Difference), who will be engaged to introduce a scheme for recycling of flexible and rigid plastic in Term 3.

Our own Student Environment Councillors from Yr 5 & 6 wrote and played out a short skit based on the 3Rs, which they performed for the Yrs P/1 & 2, and it proved to be a very educational and funny piece of work.

Then all students took part in workshops in their own classrooms where they taught other students about facets of their science program, or activities based on water.

The Kids Teaching Kids organisation, with backing from Australia Post, was very generous in their support of our conference.

The SEC wishes to thank all participants and supporters for helping make the conference a great success.

Page 10 Page 11

Curves Point Cook has pledged to lend its support to Cancer Council in an effort to raise funds for vital research and support programmes. Curves Point Cook will help raise money for the not-for-profit organisation through a series of events and initiatives throughout the month of October. Curves Point Cook clubs will also promote the benefits of prevention and early detection activities such as regular exercise, being breast aware, and for women 50-69, having a mammogram every two years.

The women’s-only fitness centre, located on Main Street will waive the service fee for new members during 1-31 October in return for a donation to Cancer Council Australia or another breast cancer organisation. Any money raised on behalf of Cancer Council will be used to fund vital breast cancer research, education and support services. For example, funds provide information booklets for breast cancer patients, along with training and resources to breast cancer support groups, and contribute towards clinical trials which test new ways to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer.

Linda, Manager of Curves Point Cook, said: "Fundraising for breast cancer charities is something which unites the Curves community globally and we’re delighted to be able to support Cancer Council, whose goals of supporting and strengthening women match Curves’ core values extremely well."

Curves Australia has been fundraising in Australia for breast cancer charities for the past five years and has so far collected in excess of one million dollars.

"With one in nine women at risk of developing breast cancer by the age of 85, Curves and its members cannot afford to ignore such a pertinent health matter," said Linda.

“We are committed to not only support research through funding, but also to increase awareness by encouraging our new and existing members to be breast aware and to lower their risk through exercise."

About Curves Curves is a facility especially designed for women featuring a complete 30-minute cardio and strength training program that has been proven to be clinically effective with a positive effect on body composition, metabolism, and resting heart rate. Curves appeals to women of all ages who want a fitness routine that differs from typical gyms, struggle with their weight and fitness and find attending traditional gyms very intimidating.

Curves Point Cook Waives Service Fee in Partnership with Cancer Council for Breast Cancer Awareness Month in OCTOBER

Issue 21 Issue 21

My StoryMy Name is Rose Leckie and I own and operate Victorian Babysitting Service. I have been working in childcare since 1986, with 15 years experience working in family day care co-ordinating units as a Fieldworker/Area Manager. I am a qualified Pre School Mothercraft Nurse, completing my Diploma of Community Service (Childcare) in 1997 as a mature aged student. I continue to babysit for the agency.

Our History Victorian Babysitting Service began its life in a small room of a family home in Newport, during the mid 1990s. Its founder, a man named James, was the primary carer for his children, whilst his wife was the family breadwinner.The business grew quickly, and in 1997, James employed an office manager to run the office during business hours, while he took any calls outside of office hours. In 1998, I applied to become a babysitter with the Agency, as at the time, my temporary part-time position was coming to an end. I began babysitting the day after my interview and was soon working consistently. In December 1999, the office manager resigned. James, knowing my work history, offered me the position of office manager, which I accepted. Six months later James advised me that he was selling the business. He asked me if I would consider buying it from him.

In May 2000, I became the second owner of Victorian Babysitting Service. The office moved from Newport to Hoppers Crossing and a new beginning! We moved to Altona during 2008 and returned to Hoppers Crossing in 2010.

I am proud that Victorian Babysitting Service has always been based in the Western Suburbs, while also providing the service to the Southern, Eastern and Northern suburbs.

Our SittersAll of the sitters registered with the agency have experience caring for children, have had a Police Check and Working with Children Check, have first aid training and have public liability insurance. All sitters are over 18 years old and up to 70 years plus.

Please visit our Website www.vicbab.com or give me a call on 03 9974 3995 or 0418 302 834.

Rose Leckie

2011 Finalist - Service Medium Category

Wyndham Business Awards

Page 10 Page 11

Curves Point Cook has pledged to lend its support to Cancer Council in an effort to raise funds for vital research and support programmes. Curves Point Cook will help raise money for the not-for-profit organisation through a series of events and initiatives throughout the month of October. Curves Point Cook clubs will also promote the benefits of prevention and early detection activities such as regular exercise, being breast aware, and for women 50-69, having a mammogram every two years.

The women’s-only fitness centre, located on Main Street will waive the service fee for new members during 1-31 October in return for a donation to Cancer Council Australia or another breast cancer organisation. Any money raised on behalf of Cancer Council will be used to fund vital breast cancer research, education and support services. For example, funds provide information booklets for breast cancer patients, along with training and resources to breast cancer support groups, and contribute towards clinical trials which test new ways to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer.

Linda, Manager of Curves Point Cook, said: "Fundraising for breast cancer charities is something which unites the Curves community globally and we’re delighted to be able to support Cancer Council, whose goals of supporting and strengthening women match Curves’ core values extremely well."

Curves Australia has been fundraising in Australia for breast cancer charities for the past five years and has so far collected in excess of one million dollars.

"With one in nine women at risk of developing breast cancer by the age of 85, Curves and its members cannot afford to ignore such a pertinent health matter," said Linda.

“We are committed to not only support research through funding, but also to increase awareness by encouraging our new and existing members to be breast aware and to lower their risk through exercise."

About Curves Curves is a facility especially designed for women featuring a complete 30-minute cardio and strength training program that has been proven to be clinically effective with a positive effect on body composition, metabolism, and resting heart rate. Curves appeals to women of all ages who want a fitness routine that differs from typical gyms, struggle with their weight and fitness and find attending traditional gyms very intimidating.

Curves Point Cook Waives Service Fee in Partnership with Cancer Council for Breast Cancer Awareness Month in OCTOBER

Issue 21 Issue 21

My StoryMy Name is Rose Leckie and I own and operate Victorian Babysitting Service. I have been working in childcare since 1986, with 15 years experience working in family day care co-ordinating units as a Fieldworker/Area Manager. I am a qualified Pre School Mothercraft Nurse, completing my Diploma of Community Service (Childcare) in 1997 as a mature aged student. I continue to babysit for the agency.

Our History Victorian Babysitting Service began its life in a small room of a family home in Newport, during the mid 1990s. Its founder, a man named James, was the primary carer for his children, whilst his wife was the family breadwinner.The business grew quickly, and in 1997, James employed an office manager to run the office during business hours, while he took any calls outside of office hours. In 1998, I applied to become a babysitter with the Agency, as at the time, my temporary part-time position was coming to an end. I began babysitting the day after my interview and was soon working consistently. In December 1999, the office manager resigned. James, knowing my work history, offered me the position of office manager, which I accepted. Six months later James advised me that he was selling the business. He asked me if I would consider buying it from him.

In May 2000, I became the second owner of Victorian Babysitting Service. The office moved from Newport to Hoppers Crossing and a new beginning! We moved to Altona during 2008 and returned to Hoppers Crossing in 2010.

I am proud that Victorian Babysitting Service has always been based in the Western Suburbs, while also providing the service to the Southern, Eastern and Northern suburbs.

Our SittersAll of the sitters registered with the agency have experience caring for children, have had a Police Check and Working with Children Check, have first aid training and have public liability insurance. All sitters are over 18 years old and up to 70 years plus.

Please visit our Website www.vicbab.com or give me a call on 03 9974 3995 or 0418 302 834.

Rose Leckie

2011 Finalist - Service Medium Category

Wyndham Business Awards

Page 12

Worm Farming Wyndham out of Waste provides Wyndham City residents the opportunity to learn about and embrace more sustainable waste management practices at home through worm farming. By participating in this program you will help to reduce your greenhouse gas emissions, gain high quality fertilisers for your garden, reduce the amount of waste in your garbage bin and save some money in the process!

What does participation involve?

Involvement in the program will cost participants $60 and includes the following:

· 1x Reln Can-O-Worms.· 1x Worm Starter Kit containing 1,000 compost worms.· Enrolment into a 1 hour Worm Farming Workshop which will cover set up, trouble shooting and other information relevant to worm farming.· Other materials to assist you in reducing your food waste to landfill.· Optional participation in an auditing process so we can assess the level of waste reduction which has occurred.

Participation will save you over 50% of the cost involved in buying and setting up a worm farm on your own.

If you would like to participate...

Please visit this link on the Wyndham City website: http://www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/residents/home/waste/wormfarming

*Places in the Project are limited and are only open to Wyndham City residents, one application per household.

Worm Farming Wyndham out of Waste – It’s Back!

Page 13Issue 21 Issue 21

Page 12

Worm Farming Wyndham out of Waste provides Wyndham City residents the opportunity to learn about and embrace more sustainable waste management practices at home through worm farming. By participating in this program you will help to reduce your greenhouse gas emissions, gain high quality fertilisers for your garden, reduce the amount of waste in your garbage bin and save some money in the process!

What does participation involve?

Involvement in the program will cost participants $60 and includes the following:

· 1x Reln Can-O-Worms.· 1x Worm Starter Kit containing 1,000 compost worms.· Enrolment into a 1 hour Worm Farming Workshop which will cover set up, trouble shooting and other information relevant to worm farming.· Other materials to assist you in reducing your food waste to landfill.· Optional participation in an auditing process so we can assess the level of waste reduction which has occurred.

Participation will save you over 50% of the cost involved in buying and setting up a worm farm on your own.

If you would like to participate...

Please visit this link on the Wyndham City website: http://www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/residents/home/waste/wormfarming

*Places in the Project are limited and are only open to Wyndham City residents, one application per household.

Worm Farming Wyndham out of Waste – It’s Back!


Page 14

GARAGE SALE INFO POINT COOK FIESTA REMINDERIf you have a garage sale next month, you could send Will an email to [email protected]@aroundpointcook.comand he’ll place your info in the next edition of Around Point Cook.

The service is free.

$15 will ensure your copy is in BOLD text to make it stand out

Community BoardCommunity BoardCommunity BoardCommunity BoardCommunity Board

Want to meet other Point Cook residents for fun and friendship?

Community Board

Page 14

Laverton Community

Festival 2011

Saturday 19th November

10-3pm, a great

family day out. Free

entertainment, rides

for the kids and an

appearance from Santa!

For more information

please phone: 9369 4866

Issue 21


Come along to Scottish

Country Dancing!All ages catered for – come as you are.

Cost: $3.00 per session.

Where: Jamieson Way Community Centre

When: Fridays @ 7.30 p.m.

(Don’t forget your two left feet!!)


Where: Jamieson Way Community Centre(Don’t forget your two left feet!!)

Come along to Dinners

For the 30-55 Age Group

They are held on the 4th Saturday of the month,

at different restaurants around Point Cook.

Next dinner is on Saturday

24th September, venue to be advised.

Contact Joan Grieve on 9394-7905

for more information.

Dinners are also held for people aged

Dinners are also held for people aged

55+ on the second Saturday of each month.

55+ on the second Saturday of each month.

Contact Eleanor on 9742-6276

Contact Eleanor on 9742-6276

for more information.

Point Cook Walking Group

Weekly on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 9am

Meet at the Point Cook Dry Cleaners. Enquiries: call Bev on 9395 1953.

Page 15

GARAGE SALE INFO POINT COOK FIESTA REMINDERPoint Cook Town Centre will once again host the Point Cook Fiesta.

This community event is run in conjunction with Wyndham City Council and Weerama, and is a celebration unique to Point Cook.

This year, the Fiesta will take place on Sunday October 16 from 11am until 5pm.

The committee is currently finalising the full suite of entertainment, activities and displays, and is pleased to confirm the following:

Ø A complete closure of Main and Murnong Street

Ø Two stages of live acts and performances

Ø Carnival rides and games Interactive exhibits and stalls

Ø Outdoor dining areas

Last year over 33,000 visitors passed through the Town Centre on Fiesta day.

Community Board

Facebook Accolades!Point Cook Football Club

Community BoardCommunity BoardCommunity BoardCommunity BoardCommunity Board

Issue 21

Point Cook Running GroupTuesdays 6:30pm

Meet outside Point Cook CLC. All levels are welcome with sessions led by Nick Harrison, 2004 Athens Marathon Olympic competitor.

Free Group

Meditation

Tuesdays 8pm - 9pm

Please call 0434 168 418

or 9395 9362 for more

information.

Page 16

Rabbit Care SheetDiet:While rabbits love fresh vegetables, milk thistle and premixed rabbit foods, these should not form the majority of their diet. Rabbits can develop poorly formed stools which may lead to other health problems. Foods like these also can result in obesity and in dental problems. They are best thought of as a treat and used to add variety to your rabbits diet. The bulk of a rabbit’s diet should be a quality hay such as oaten hay or pasture hay (not straw). Lucerne hay contains too much protein and energy and should be avoided. Some ‘treat foods’ like apple, carrot, freshly cut grass and premixed rabbit foods may also be offered daily in moderation. This generally means no more than half a cup total for an average sized rabbit. Rabbits should not be fed bread.

TeethRabbits teeth grow continuously throughout their life. On a good diet their teeth should wear down and not overgrow. Because over growth of teeth in captive rabbits is a common problem these should be checked regularly by you and your vet. If they become overgrown they can be trimmed back by your veterinarian. Never attempt this at home. A good way to help your rabbit keep its teeth at the right length is offer small segments of fruit tree branches for it to chew on – most rabbits love this tasty treat!

Vaccinations:While we cannot vaccinate against Myxomatosis in Australia we do have an effective vaccine for calicivirus which causes Rabbit Viral Haemorrhagic Disease. This can be spread from rabbit to rabbit or by biting insects. Vaccination is performed annually and should be started at 12 weeks old. Ask your vet for more details.

Nails:Nails should be trimmed as required. You can do this at home or bring your rabbit in to Pet Goods Direct ($5 per animal).

Desexing:Desexing rabbits helps decrease some unwanted behaviours and aggression, which can occur in both sexes. It is also a great idea for female rabbits because, if not speyed between 60 and 80% will develop uterine cancer.

Fleas: The cat and dog products ‘Advantage’ and ‘Revolution’ can both be used. See your vet for more information.

Point Cook PetsPoint Cook Pets Point Cook PetsPoint Cook Pets


Welcome to my first column with the ‘Around Point Cook Community Newspaper’! If I were to ‘tweet’ my bio in 140 characters it would look like:

Me = Social Media Mngr & Communications pro, Private & Public sector exp. Creative, fun, dynamic - fan of #Bazinga #LLAP @socialmediamons

How many people are using Social Media?

· Facebook: has more than 750 million users- 70% of users are located outside the USA.

· Twitter: a billion Tweets are sent every 5 days.

· YouTube: over 3 billion videos are viewed each day.

How does this translate into the real world?

· When singer Beyonce revealed her pregnancy at the MTV Video Music Awards recently 8,860 tweets were sent per second!

· Former PM Kevin Rudd has the highest number of ‘tweeps’ in Australia, closely followed by Shane Warne.

· The most popular Facebook page in the World? ‘Texas Hold’em Poker’! Lady Gaga is ranked 5th, Michael Jackson 7th and Justin Beiber 13th.

If you have a question you’d like covered in an upcoming column send me a tweet or message!

Nicole Matejic

Twitter: @socialmediamons

Facebook: Social Media Monster

@socialmediamons: your local social media conversation

Page 16

Rabbit Care SheetDiet:While rabbits love fresh vegetables, milk thistle and premixed rabbit foods, these should not form the majority of their diet. Rabbits can develop poorly formed stools which may lead to other health problems. Foods like these also can result in obesity and in dental problems. They are best thought of as a treat and used to add variety to your rabbits diet. The bulk of a rabbit’s diet should be a quality hay such as oaten hay or pasture hay (not straw). Lucerne hay contains too much protein and energy and should be avoided. Some ‘treat foods’ like apple, carrot, freshly cut grass and premixed rabbit foods may also be offered daily in moderation. This generally means no more than half a cup total for an average sized rabbit. Rabbits should not be fed bread.

TeethRabbits teeth grow continuously throughout their life. On a good diet their teeth should wear down and not overgrow. Because over growth of teeth in captive rabbits is a common problem these should be checked regularly by you and your vet. If they become overgrown they can be trimmed back by your veterinarian. Never attempt this at home. A good way to help your rabbit keep its teeth at the right length is offer small segments of fruit tree branches for it to chew on – most rabbits love this tasty treat!

Vaccinations:While we cannot vaccinate against Myxomatosis in Australia we do have an effective vaccine for calicivirus which causes Rabbit Viral Haemorrhagic Disease. This can be spread from rabbit to rabbit or by biting insects. Vaccination is performed annually and should be started at 12 weeks old. Ask your vet for more details.

Nails:Nails should be trimmed as required. You can do this at home or bring your rabbit in to Pet Goods Direct ($5 per animal).

Desexing:Desexing rabbits helps decrease some unwanted behaviours and aggression, which can occur in both sexes. It is also a great idea for female rabbits because, if not speyed between 60 and 80% will develop uterine cancer.

Fleas: The cat and dog products ‘Advantage’ and ‘Revolution’ can both be used. See your vet for more information.

Point Cook PetsPoint Cook Pets Point Cook PetsPoint Cook Pets


Welcome to my first column with the ‘Around Point Cook Community Newspaper’! If I were to ‘tweet’ my bio in 140 characters it would look like:

Me = Social Media Mngr & Communications pro, Private & Public sector exp. Creative, fun, dynamic - fan of #Bazinga #LLAP @socialmediamons

How many people are using Social Media?

· Facebook: has more than 750 million users- 70% of users are located outside the USA.

· Twitter: a billion Tweets are sent every 5 days.

· YouTube: over 3 billion videos are viewed each day.

How does this translate into the real world?

· When singer Beyonce revealed her pregnancy at the MTV Video Music Awards recently 8,860 tweets were sent per second!

· Former PM Kevin Rudd has the highest number of ‘tweeps’ in Australia, closely followed by Shane Warne.

· The most popular Facebook page in the World? ‘Texas Hold’em Poker’! Lady Gaga is ranked 5th, Michael Jackson 7th and Justin Beiber 13th.

If you have a question you’d like covered in an upcoming column send me a tweet or message!

Nicole Matejic

Twitter: @socialmediamons

Facebook: Social Media Monster

@socialmediamons: your local social media conversation

Page 19Page 18 Issue 21 Issue 21

As our population grows and global warming has settled in for what is predicted to be a lengthy stay, WaterWise has become the catch cry of the twenty-first century. Over the past decade or two, Australian gardeners have learned that we must carefully manage our precious water supplies. We can no longer afford to establish traditional water-hungry, damp-climate, northern European type gardens with their tender, thirsty plants and large areas of lawn. For this very reason, water efficient indigenous gardens are gaining in popularity. Gardeners are also turning to succulent species that originate in Mediterranean-type climates similar to ours. Climates that experience cool wet winters and drier summers. These areas include California, Argentina, South Africa and, of course, the Mediterranean coast. Generally

speaking, succulents are plants that store water in their leaves, stems and/or roots for use during drier times. While succulent plants can survive on far less water than plants from wetter areas, they are not "no-water" plants. Even the hardiest succulent may require supplementary irrigation during times of extended drought. Not all succulents will perform well in all areas; so it is worth doing some research to determine which ones should be suitable for your particular location. Some immigrant succulents have adapted to life in Australia just a little too well, so be careful which plants you import into your garden. These fleshy, colourful plants look wonderful in rockeries and garden beds, and they are also ideally suited to outdoor containers. Gardeners

S U C C U L E N T S

Point Cook Garden PagePoint Cook Garden Page Point Cook Garden PagePoint Cook Garden Pageare presented with an almost unlimited choice of growth forms, colours and textures. This tonal pencil drawing is of Echeveria Paul Bunyan, a man-made hybrid from my husband's ever expanding cactus and succulent collection. Almost all echeverias are perennial succulent plants with thick or fleshy leaves arranged in a rosette form. Some have squat, compact solitary rosettes, some rosettes develop into a clumping form with multiple smaller rosettes around the base, while others have more open rosettes on outstretched stems which may develop into small shrubs. Echeveria Paul Bunyan is a Dick Wright hybrid from 1960 (Echeveria gibbiflora ‘Carunculata’ x E. 'Edna Spencer'). Solitary plants grow to 250mm and soon develop a bare exposed stem, after which the plant's diameter often decreases. Propagation is from head cuts and a few forced offsets. I love the bumpy leaf surface.

Helene WildResident Artist Habitat Trust

Page 19Page 18 Issue 21 Issue 21

As our population grows and global warming has settled in for what is predicted to be a lengthy stay, WaterWise has become the catch cry of the twenty-first century. Over the past decade or two, Australian gardeners have learned that we must carefully manage our precious water supplies. We can no longer afford to establish traditional water-hungry, damp-climate, northern European type gardens with their tender, thirsty plants and large areas of lawn. For this very reason, water efficient indigenous gardens are gaining in popularity. Gardeners are also turning to succulent species that originate in Mediterranean-type climates similar to ours. Climates that experience cool wet winters and drier summers. These areas include California, Argentina, South Africa and, of course, the Mediterranean coast. Generally

speaking, succulents are plants that store water in their leaves, stems and/or roots for use during drier times. While succulent plants can survive on far less water than plants from wetter areas, they are not "no-water" plants. Even the hardiest succulent may require supplementary irrigation during times of extended drought. Not all succulents will perform well in all areas; so it is worth doing some research to determine which ones should be suitable for your particular location. Some immigrant succulents have adapted to life in Australia just a little too well, so be careful which plants you import into your garden. These fleshy, colourful plants look wonderful in rockeries and garden beds, and they are also ideally suited to outdoor containers. Gardeners

S U C C U L E N T S

Point Cook Garden PagePoint Cook Garden Page Point Cook Garden PagePoint Cook Garden Pageare presented with an almost unlimited choice of growth forms, colours and textures. This tonal pencil drawing is of Echeveria Paul Bunyan, a man-made hybrid from my husband's ever expanding cactus and succulent collection. Almost all echeverias are perennial succulent plants with thick or fleshy leaves arranged in a rosette form. Some have squat, compact solitary rosettes, some rosettes develop into a clumping form with multiple smaller rosettes around the base, while others have more open rosettes on outstretched stems which may develop into small shrubs. Echeveria Paul Bunyan is a Dick Wright hybrid from 1960 (Echeveria gibbiflora ‘Carunculata’ x E. 'Edna Spencer'). Solitary plants grow to 250mm and soon develop a bare exposed stem, after which the plant's diameter often decreases. Propagation is from head cuts and a few forced offsets. I love the bumpy leaf surface.

Helene WildResident Artist Habitat Trust

Page 21Page 20

I would like to congratulate those that made it out to Point Cook and rallied against the selling off of ‘green wedge’ land and loudly demanding better infrastructure for the West.

Local families are understandably outraged about a Baillieu Government push to handover 443 hectares of Melbourne’s ‘green wedge’ in Point Cook to housing developers.

In September, the Baillieu Government’s Growth Areas Authority recommended that houses be built on ‘green wedge’ land bordering Point Cook Road, Aviation Road and Hacketts Road.

Shadow Minister for Planning, Brian Tee met angry residents from Point Cook and Werribee South who gathered to protest against the Point Cook rezoning and Planning Minister Matthew Guy’s troubled green wedge review.

Point Cook residents were worried about the impact of an influx of new residents on already stressed local services and infrastructure.

What we need desperately, before increasing the population with more housing, is improved local infrastructure.

Mr Guy needs to come down to Point Cook and talk to residents about what they want for their community instead of telling them what he wants.

On another note please be aware that Local History Grants are currently open.

*The Local History Grants Program provides grants of up to $12,000 to community organisations to support the cost of any project that preserves, records or publishes Victorian local history.

$350,000 is to be distributed to projects in the 2011-12 financial year so there is quite a bit of money up for grabs for organisations who have a long and proud history to preserve.

Applications for this grant are due to close on Friday 11 November 2011. I would encourage any local organisations who have an interest in applying for this grant to contact my office and I will do my best to supply a letter of support.

An information session will occur at: The Victorian Archives Centre99 Shiel St, North Melbourne10am on Wednesday 14 September 2011Bookings not necessaryFurther information is available at the following website:http://prov.vic.gov.au/community-programs/grants-awards/local-history-grants

I hope you have a fantastic month!

RegardsJill Hennessy MP

Member for Altona

A word from Jill Hennessy MP

Issue 21 Issue 21

Page 21Page 20

I would like to congratulate those that made it out to Point Cook and rallied against the selling off of ‘green wedge’ land and loudly demanding better infrastructure for the West.

Local families are understandably outraged about a Baillieu Government push to handover 443 hectares of Melbourne’s ‘green wedge’ in Point Cook to housing developers.

In September, the Baillieu Government’s Growth Areas Authority recommended that houses be built on ‘green wedge’ land bordering Point Cook Road, Aviation Road and Hacketts Road.

Shadow Minister for Planning, Brian Tee met angry residents from Point Cook and Werribee South who gathered to protest against the Point Cook rezoning and Planning Minister Matthew Guy’s troubled green wedge review.

Point Cook residents were worried about the impact of an influx of new residents on already stressed local services and infrastructure.

What we need desperately, before increasing the population with more housing, is improved local infrastructure.

Mr Guy needs to come down to Point Cook and talk to residents about what they want for their community instead of telling them what he wants.

On another note please be aware that Local History Grants are currently open.

*The Local History Grants Program provides grants of up to $12,000 to community organisations to support the cost of any project that preserves, records or publishes Victorian local history.

$350,000 is to be distributed to projects in the 2011-12 financial year so there is quite a bit of money up for grabs for organisations who have a long and proud history to preserve.

Applications for this grant are due to close on Friday 11 November 2011. I would encourage any local organisations who have an interest in applying for this grant to contact my office and I will do my best to supply a letter of support.

An information session will occur at: The Victorian Archives Centre99 Shiel St, North Melbourne10am on Wednesday 14 September 2011Bookings not necessaryFurther information is available at the following website:http://prov.vic.gov.au/community-programs/grants-awards/local-history-grants

I hope you have a fantastic month!

RegardsJill Hennessy MP

Member for Altona

A word from Jill Hennessy MP

Issue 21 Issue 21

Page 22

Laugh out loudLaugh out loud

Page 23


Issue 21 Issue 21

Too much analysis

Two psychiatrists were walking down a hall.

One turned to the other and said, "Hello."

The other one thought, "I wonder what he meant by that."

Silver anniversary During their silver anniversary, a wife reminded her husband: Do you remember when you proposed to me, I was so overwhelmed that I didn't talk for an hour?"

The hubby replied, "Yes, honey, that was the happiest hour of my life."

Job application A man went to apply for a job. After filling out all of his applications, he waited anxiously for the outcome. The employer read all his applications and said, "We have an opening for people like you."

"Oh, great," he said, "What is it?"

"It's called the door!"

Recently retired... Mom always wanted to learn to play the piano, so dad bought her a piano for her birthday. A few weeks later, I asked how she was doing with it. "Oh, we returned the piano." said My Dad, "I persuaded her to switch to a clarinet instead."

"How come?" I asked. "Because," he answered, "with a clarinet, she can't sing."

SHOPPING MATH

A man will pay $2 for a $1 item he needs.

A woman will pay $1 for a $2 item that she doesn't need.

ONE-LINERS

A flying particle will seek the nearest eye.* * *

A fool and his money are soon elected.* * *

All true wisdom is found on T-shirts.

Page 22


Page 23


Issue 21 Issue 21

Too much analysis

Two psychiatrists were walking down a hall.

One turned to the other and said, "Hello."

The other one thought, "I wonder what he meant by that."

Silver anniversary During their silver anniversary, a wife reminded her husband: Do you remember when you proposed to me, I was so overwhelmed that I didn't talk for an hour?"

The hubby replied, "Yes, honey, that was the happiest hour of my life."

Job application A man went to apply for a job. After filling out all of his applications, he waited anxiously for the outcome. The employer read all his applications and said, "We have an opening for people like you."

"Oh, great," he said, "What is it?"

"It's called the door!"

Recently retired... Mom always wanted to learn to play the piano, so dad bought her a piano for her birthday. A few weeks later, I asked how she was doing with it. "Oh, we returned the piano." said My Dad, "I persuaded her to switch to a clarinet instead."

"How come?" I asked. "Because," he answered, "with a clarinet, she can't sing."

SHOPPING MATH

A man will pay $2 for a $1 item he needs.

A woman will pay $1 for a $2 item that she doesn't need.

ONE-LINERS

A flying particle will seek the nearest eye.* * *

A fool and his money are soon elected.* * *

All true wisdom is found on T-shirts.

Page 25Page 24

When my wife and I moved to Point Cook four years ago, we took a few things for granted; coffee shops, restaurants and a local running club. Mind you, where we moved from did have an unfair head start, and Point Cook has been quickly catching up. When the new Town Centre was built we were able to tick off two out of three.

After much research on the online running forums we came to the realisation that if we wanted a group to run with in Point Cook we would have to start our own! So began the Point Cook Community Running Group; a bit of a mouthful,

but we wanted to emphasise that this was a group for anyone wanting to get out and simply run with other like minded people, that is, people who want to get fit and enjoy being outside and active.

Both of us have enjoyed the benefits of having a supportive running group to train with and always felt we would like to give back to running in some way. This seemed like a wonderful way for us to give back to the wider running community and also, we would benefit too, particularly Narin, my wife, who had decided that she would like to begin training for a marathon.

We began by putting up some notices around the Town Centre, and at the Point Cook Library, and also setting up a community page on Facebook back in March of this year. The group has steadily grown over the past six months, and the regular members have been seeing gains in both fitness, and in their enjoyment of running. It is always more fun to do it with a group!

The idea behind the group is that it is to support running, and as such, the group costs nothing to join, nor is there any kind of membership. It is just a group of people who run together. Each person has their own goals and their own reason to run.

Point Cook Community Running Group

Issue 21 Issue 21

Some are running to lose weight, others to get faster and some are running just because they enjoy it. We encourage runners of all abilities to join us, and the runs are designed to allow runners of any ability to be able to join in. No one should feel like they are not “fit” enough to join.We look forward to seeing some new faces…

Nick Harrison

The runs are organised by Nick Harrison. Nick ran in the Athens Olympics (2004), in the marathon. He is now (semi) retired, although still running quite a bit and really enjoying watching the community running group grow.

Training times

Tuesday: 6.30pm - Out the front of the Point Cook LibraryThursday: 6.30pm - Out the front of the Point Cook LibrarySaturday: 8.00am - The Waterstone Cafe, Sanctuary Lakes

Community Page:http://www.facebook.com/pages/Point-Cook-Community-Running-Group/105895096152150?sk=wall&filter=2

Page 25Page 24

When my wife and I moved to Point Cook four years ago, we took a few things for granted; coffee shops, restaurants and a local running club. Mind you, where we moved from did have an unfair head start, and Point Cook has been quickly catching up. When the new Town Centre was built we were able to tick off two out of three.

After much research on the online running forums we came to the realisation that if we wanted a group to run with in Point Cook we would have to start our own! So began the Point Cook Community Running Group; a bit of a mouthful,

but we wanted to emphasise that this was a group for anyone wanting to get out and simply run with other like minded people, that is, people who want to get fit and enjoy being outside and active.

Both of us have enjoyed the benefits of having a supportive running group to train with and always felt we would like to give back to running in some way. This seemed like a wonderful way for us to give back to the wider running community and also, we would benefit too, particularly Narin, my wife, who had decided that she would like to begin training for a marathon.

We began by putting up some notices around the Town Centre, and at the Point Cook Library, and also setting up a community page on Facebook back in March of this year. The group has steadily grown over the past six months, and the regular members have been seeing gains in both fitness, and in their enjoyment of running. It is always more fun to do it with a group!

The idea behind the group is that it is to support running, and as such, the group costs nothing to join, nor is there any kind of membership. It is just a group of people who run together. Each person has their own goals and their own reason to run.

Point Cook Community Running Group

Issue 21 Issue 21

Some are running to lose weight, others to get faster and some are running just because they enjoy it. We encourage runners of all abilities to join us, and the runs are designed to allow runners of any ability to be able to join in. No one should feel like they are not “fit” enough to join.We look forward to seeing some new faces…

Nick Harrison

The runs are organised by Nick Harrison. Nick ran in the Athens Olympics (2004), in the marathon. He is now (semi) retired, although still running quite a bit and really enjoying watching the community running group grow.

Training times

Tuesday: 6.30pm - Out the front of the Point Cook LibraryThursday: 6.30pm - Out the front of the Point Cook LibrarySaturday: 8.00am - The Waterstone Cafe, Sanctuary Lakes

Community Page:http://www.facebook.com/pages/Point-Cook-Community-Running-Group/105895096152150?sk=wall&filter=2

Page 27Page 26

Shed Talk

Welcome again to another enthralling instal-ment of Shed Talk, from the Hobsons Bay Mens Shed here at lovely Altona. There has been a veritable plethora of activities going on down here... in much simpler terms, a lot!

We are about to enter another phase of our partnership with Hobsons Bay City Council, with the introduction of two fantastic new programs, funded by council and administered and run by The Mens Shed!

The first of these programs take the form of a nutrition-based raised garden bed project, using recycled materials to create a cube shaped vegetable garden in homes of elderly members of the community. Designed to be easy to potter around with, I'm sure will prove to be an invaluable asset to those who have one! Initially aimed at fifty residences and partnered also with Williamstown Rotary Club, who are providing the labour to assemble the kits on site.

The second and also very exciting project is the “Home/ Handy hints program”. This came about after a forum with senior Laverton residents, particularly women, who indicated a need to learn how to use handtools and engage in their own handy type work at home. Many are pensioners who cannot afford the services of handymen to hang pictures, change tap washers or tighten the handles on things. Our aim is to teach as many who wish to learn, how to do these things and others, for themselves.

Issue 21 Issue 21

Beginning on Wed 19th of October through to 9th November from 1pm tp 3pm, costs $5.00 per session and light lunch is provided generously by HBCC! Great value, great opportunity! Call the mens Shed for bookings on 93982383.

The engineering shop is nearly operational. Not far to go now! A few bits and pieces of OH&S documentation and procedures and off it goes! We had a fascinating presentation yesterday on metal bending and flatbar creations, put on by a tool company. For further info, contact the shed.

All other programs are going strong. The disability groups and the aged care activity groups are just a joy to be involved with.

Its an amazing thing to see what happens when groups of men get together to help each other. At this point I would like to acknowledge the personal efforts of a young man called Raj. Struck down by a debilitating brain infection and confined to a wheelchair, missing a large chunk of his skull and only just beginning to get out of his chair. Well here is news, after 6 weeks of attending our activity program and being constantly encouraged and pushed, helped and goaded kindly, Raj finally stood unaided on his own two feet and walked with assistance for 5 metres!! What an incredible achievement Raj, and thanks to the extra help he is getting from Jason and the other staff at the care facility he resides in. Alas, however it does raise another point about having relatively young people confined to aged care facilities due to lack of other adequate services. Best I not get started on that one!! But again, all this reminds me exactly why we at the Hobsons Bay Mens Shed are here doing what we do – because essentially as men in our community, we have an obligation to help ourselves and each other, especially those who are frail, unwell or infirm, and aid our communities at large over our own egos and desires.

Timber workshop is now open three days a week, trainset interest group is rolling along, musical instrument makers are pottering on in creative bliss, and we are expanding our engagement with the Hobsons Bay community through our service provision and programs.

Only one more thing to report on, the Australian Mens Shed conference in Qld recently I attended. I am pleased to report that we at HBMS really are heading in the right direction. The culture of heads down and get on with it is really beginning to show remarkable results, and we are leading amongst Mens Sheds in many ways. Our level of engagement with many cross sections of the community is at a stand out level, given the minimal resources we

operate on.

Ok, there endeth todays rant from my office! I hope I am getting a clear message across about what goes on down here and why. Until next time, may your lives be filled with love, laughter and satisfaction born through generosity of spirit

Yours in serviceDaniel Kuiper

CoordinatorHobsons Bay

Mens Shed

Page 27Page 26

Shed Talk

Welcome again to another enthralling instal-ment of Shed Talk, from the Hobsons Bay Mens Shed here at lovely Altona. There has been a veritable plethora of activities going on down here... in much simpler terms, a lot!

We are about to enter another phase of our partnership with Hobsons Bay City Council, with the introduction of two fantastic new programs, funded by council and administered and run by The Mens Shed!

The first of these programs take the form of a nutrition-based raised garden bed project, using recycled materials to create a cube shaped vegetable garden in homes of elderly members of the community. Designed to be easy to potter around with, I'm sure will prove to be an invaluable asset to those who have one! Initially aimed at fifty residences and partnered also with Williamstown Rotary Club, who are providing the labour to assemble the kits on site.

The second and also very exciting project is the “Home/ Handy hints program”. This came about after a forum with senior Laverton residents, particularly women, who indicated a need to learn how to use handtools and engage in their own handy type work at home. Many are pensioners who cannot afford the services of handymen to hang pictures, change tap washers or tighten the handles on things. Our aim is to teach as many who wish to learn, how to do these things and others, for themselves.

Issue 21 Issue 21

Beginning on Wed 19th of October through to 9th November from 1pm tp 3pm, costs $5.00 per session and light lunch is provided generously by HBCC! Great value, great opportunity! Call the mens Shed for bookings on 93982383.

The engineering shop is nearly operational. Not far to go now! A few bits and pieces of OH&S documentation and procedures and off it goes! We had a fascinating presentation yesterday on metal bending and flatbar creations, put on by a tool company. For further info, contact the shed.

All other programs are going strong. The disability groups and the aged care activity groups are just a joy to be involved with.

Its an amazing thing to see what happens when groups of men get together to help each other. At this point I would like to acknowledge the personal efforts of a young man called Raj. Struck down by a debilitating brain infection and confined to a wheelchair, missing a large chunk of his skull and only just beginning to get out of his chair. Well here is news, after 6 weeks of attending our activity program and being constantly encouraged and pushed, helped and goaded kindly, Raj finally stood unaided on his own two feet and walked with assistance for 5 metres!! What an incredible achievement Raj, and thanks to the extra help he is getting from Jason and the other staff at the care facility he resides in. Alas, however it does raise another point about having relatively young people confined to aged care facilities due to lack of other adequate services. Best I not get started on that one!! But again, all this reminds me exactly why we at the Hobsons Bay Mens Shed are here doing what we do – because essentially as men in our community, we have an obligation to help ourselves and each other, especially those who are frail, unwell or infirm, and aid our communities at large over our own egos and desires.

Timber workshop is now open three days a week, trainset interest group is rolling along, musical instrument makers are pottering on in creative bliss, and we are expanding our engagement with the Hobsons Bay community through our service provision and programs.

Only one more thing to report on, the Australian Mens Shed conference in Qld recently I attended. I am pleased to report that we at HBMS really are heading in the right direction. The culture of heads down and get on with it is really beginning to show remarkable results, and we are leading amongst Mens Sheds in many ways. Our level of engagement with many cross sections of the community is at a stand out level, given the minimal resources we

operate on.

Ok, there endeth todays rant from my office! I hope I am getting a clear message across about what goes on down here and why. Until next time, may your lives be filled with love, laughter and satisfaction born through generosity of spirit

Yours in serviceDaniel Kuiper

CoordinatorHobsons Bay

Mens Shed

Page 28 Page 29Issue 21 Issue 21



Chris Egger

FAMOUS

QUOTES A diplomat is a man who

always remembers a woman's birthday but never remembers her age.

[Robert Frost ]

* * *

A man growing old becomes a child again.[Sophocles ]

* * *

A man paints with his brains and not with his hands.

[Michelangelo ]

* * *

Beauty is a fragile gift.[Ovid]

A budget tells us what we can't afford, but it doesn't keep us from buying it.

[William Feather]

* * *

"Cannibals" prefer those who have no spines.

[Stanislaw Lem]

* * *

Dream in a pragmatic way![Aldous Huxley]

* * *

A mistake is always forgivable, rarely excusable and always unacceptable.

[Robert Fripp]

Page 28 Page 29Issue 21 Issue 21



Chris Egger

FAMOUS

QUOTES A diplomat is a man who

always remembers a woman's birthday but never remembers her age.

[Robert Frost ]

* * *

A man growing old becomes a child again.[Sophocles ]

* * *

A man paints with his brains and not with his hands.

[Michelangelo ]

* * *

Beauty is a fragile gift.[Ovid]

A budget tells us what we can't afford, but it doesn't keep us from buying it.

[William Feather]

* * *

"Cannibals" prefer those who have no spines.

[Stanislaw Lem]

* * *

Dream in a pragmatic way![Aldous Huxley]

* * *

A mistake is always forgivable, rarely excusable and always unacceptable.

[Robert Fripp]

Belgian Beef Stew

Makes: 7

Ingredients

* 455 g bacon, diced* 15 g butter* 20 small boiling onions, peeled* 3 cloves garlic, minced* 905 g lean beef chuck, trimmed and cut into 1 inch cubes* 15 g all-purpose flour* 10 g salt* 1 g ground black pepper* 450 g dark beer* 0.5 bunch fresh parsley, chopped* 1 lemon, juiced and zested* 6 g grated lemon zest

Method:

1. Blanch the bacon for 1 minute in boiling water. Drain.

2. Place bacon and butter or margarine in a large covered pot or Dutch oven. Cook over medium heat until bacon is browned. Add onions; cook until golden. Add garlic, and cook for 1 or 2 minutes; take care not to burn the garlic. Remove bacon mixture from pot, and set aside.

3. Add beef to the fat left in the pot, and brown on all sides. When meat is browned, return bacon mixture to the pot. Stir in flour, salt, and pepper. Add enough beer to just barely cover the meat. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to simmer, and cover. Cook for 1 1/2 to 2 hours.

4. Remove pot from heat, and stir in parsley, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Serve hot.

Point Cook RecipesPoint Cook Recipes

Page 31

A recipe with beerFun QuotesFun Quotes

Page 30

Here are the three quotes for this issue can you guess who made them? You'll find the answers on page 32.

“What has God wrought?”QUOTE 1

“He is the most perfect writer of my generation. He

writes the best sentences word for word, rhythm

upon rhythm. I would not have changed two words in

Breakfast At Tiffany’s.”

QUOTE 2

“I want to die at a

hundred years old with

an American flag on

my back and the star

of Texas on my helmet,

after screaming down

an Alpine descent on a

bicycle at 75 miles per

hour”.

QUOTE 3

Issue 21 Issue 21

Belgian Beef Stew

Makes: 7

Ingredients

* 455 g bacon, diced* 15 g butter* 20 small boiling onions, peeled* 3 cloves garlic, minced* 905 g lean beef chuck, trimmed and cut into 1 inch cubes* 15 g all-purpose flour* 10 g salt* 1 g ground black pepper* 450 g dark beer* 0.5 bunch fresh parsley, chopped* 1 lemon, juiced and zested* 6 g grated lemon zest

Method:

1. Blanch the bacon for 1 minute in boiling water. Drain.

2. Place bacon and butter or margarine in a large covered pot or Dutch oven. Cook over medium heat until bacon is browned. Add onions; cook until golden. Add garlic, and cook for 1 or 2 minutes; take care not to burn the garlic. Remove bacon mixture from pot, and set aside.

3. Add beef to the fat left in the pot, and brown on all sides. When meat is browned, return bacon mixture to the pot. Stir in flour, salt, and pepper. Add enough beer to just barely cover the meat. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to simmer, and cover. Cook for 1 1/2 to 2 hours.

4. Remove pot from heat, and stir in parsley, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Serve hot.

Point Cook RecipesPoint Cook Recipes

Page 31

A recipe with beerFun QuotesFun Quotes

Page 30

Here are the three quotes for this issue can you guess who made them? You'll find the answers on page 32.

“What has God wrought?”QUOTE 1

“He is the most perfect writer of my generation. He

writes the best sentences word for word, rhythm

upon rhythm. I would not have changed two words in

Breakfast At Tiffany’s.”

QUOTE 2

“I want to die at a

hundred years old with

an American flag on

my back and the star

of Texas on my helmet,

after screaming down

an Alpine descent on a

bicycle at 75 miles per

hour”.

QUOTE 3

Issue 21 Issue 21

Page 32

FUN

FACTS The diamond is the hardest natural

substance found on the earth.

* * *

Breath, by Samuel Beckett, was first performed in April, 1970. The play lasts thirty

seconds, has no actors, and no dialogue.

* * *

Orville Wright, who with his brother Wilbur invented the airplane, was himself badly

injured in an airplane crash.

* * *

Pentheraphobia is a fear of a mother-in-law.

* * *

In Ancient Egypt, cats were often buried with their masters, or in a special

cemetery for cats .

* * *

Anteaters prefer termites to ants.

* * *

The lifespan of a human hair is 3 to 7 years on average.

* * *

The brain uses over a quarter of the oxygen used by the human body.

* * *

Your nose and ears continue growing throughout your entire life.

* * *

Paul Cezanne was 56 years old when he had his first solo exhibition.

Page 33

From the age of thirty, humans gradually begin to shrink in size.

* * *

Henri Matisse's Le Bateau hung in New York's Museum of Modern Art for 47 days

in 1961 before someone noticed it was upside down.

* * *

Historians report that the Roman Emperor Gaius (Caligula) (AD 37-41) was so proud of his horse that he gave him a place as a

senate consul before he died.

* * *

There are more plastic flamingoes in the US than real ones.

* * *

Issue 21 Issue 21

Answer Quote One: Samuel Morse - in his first telegraph message. Answer Quote Two: This is what Norman Mailer wrote about Truman Capote’s novel Breakfast At Tiffany’s. Answer Quote Three: Lance Armstrong – It’s Not About The Bike, from the opening paragraph of his autobiography.

Page 32

FUN

FACTS The diamond is the hardest natural

substance found on the earth.

* * *

Breath, by Samuel Beckett, was first performed in April, 1970. The play lasts thirty

seconds, has no actors, and no dialogue.

* * *

Orville Wright, who with his brother Wilbur invented the airplane, was himself badly

injured in an airplane crash.

* * *

Pentheraphobia is a fear of a mother-in-law.

* * *

In Ancient Egypt, cats were often buried with their masters, or in a special

cemetery for cats .

* * *

Anteaters prefer termites to ants.

* * *

The lifespan of a human hair is 3 to 7 years on average.

* * *

The brain uses over a quarter of the oxygen used by the human body.

* * *

Your nose and ears continue growing throughout your entire life.

* * *

Paul Cezanne was 56 years old when he had his first solo exhibition.

Page 33

From the age of thirty, humans gradually begin to shrink in size.

* * *

Henri Matisse's Le Bateau hung in New York's Museum of Modern Art for 47 days

in 1961 before someone noticed it was upside down.

* * *

Historians report that the Roman Emperor Gaius (Caligula) (AD 37-41) was so proud of his horse that he gave him a place as a

senate consul before he died.

* * *

There are more plastic flamingoes in the US than real ones.

* * *

Issue 21 Issue 21

Answer Quote One: Samuel Morse - in his first telegraph message. Answer Quote Two: This is what Norman Mailer wrote about Truman Capote’s novel Breakfast At Tiffany’s. Answer Quote Three: Lance Armstrong – It’s Not About The Bike, from the opening paragraph of his autobiography.

Page 34

AUSTRALIA***Australia is a fair country,Placed by God in the southern seas;With raw and terrible beauty,It has so many sights that please.

As it is rich in Nature's bounty,Sunshine, surf and just enough snow,It's often called "the lucky country":Its culture includes the "fair go".

Its vastness was almost untouched,Its inhabitants numbered few,Until "discovered" by the Dutch:The intrepid Jansz and his crew. (1)

Until the coming of White Men,Oz enjoyed what's called "the Dream Time":Things that our ancestors did back thenCan only be described as a crime.

Up until seventeen eighty-eight,Folk lived here on what Nature provided.'Twas on a fateful January dateThat their unhappy future was decided.

But what happened here was not unique;It's occurred throughout human history:The strong have always displaced the weakIn their hunger for new territory.

We saw this in the last century:The poisonous politics of raceProduced catastrophic miseryIn a war waged for living space. (2)

But we Aussies must try to atone,In line with our ideas of justice,For all the wrongs that have been done:Those things that we know were not nice.

We can look to a bright future,Built by folk come from near and far,Enriching us with their culture,Fleeing the ravages of war.

In Oz a man is judged by his worth:His character and his talents;Not by circumstance of birth,Nor by Old World rights of descent.

So let's join hands in harmony,Regardless of creed, colour or race,And build here a just society:And we shall succeed by God's grace.

And we shall be a republicUnder our flag, the Southern Cross, (3)Where we'll give privilege the flick:Here Jack is as good as his boss.

Jack Nystrom,Altona Meadows, Victoria,

Australia Day,Tusday, 26 January, 2010

NO

TES:

(1) S

ee m

y po

em, "

Expl

orer

s";

(2) L

eben

srau

m (

Livi

ng S

pace

) was

the

prin

cipa

l war

aim

of H

itler

's T

hird

Rei

ch in

its

war

of a

ggre

ssio

n, 1

939

- 45.

Thi

s w

as

the

terr

itory

(in

Pola

nd a

nd R

ussi

a) w

hich

they

bel

ieve

d w

as n

eces

sary

for

the

natu

ral d

evel

opm

ent o

f the

Ger

man

nati

on;

(3) S

ee m

y po

em, "

The

Sout

hern

Cro

ss".

Issue 21

Page 35

Point Cook KidsPoint Cook Kids Point Cook KidsPoint Cook Kids Point Cook KidsPoint Cook Kids Point Cook KidsPoint Cook Kids

Calling on Point Cook Schools and Parents to share photos, art, stories, writing for this page.Email your contributions to [email protected] or post to the PO Box 1145 Altona Meadows 3028

www.aroundpointcook.com Please email contributions to [email protected]

ABN: 43 604 804 338ABN: 43 604 804 338 AdvAdvertising enquiries:PO Box 1145 Altona Meadows 3028 Will: 0449 834 359Publisher - Bill: (03) 8307 8872Publisher - Bill: (03) 8307 8872 Louise: 0403 191 084

RATHER THAN THROW THIS PAPER OUT WHY NOT RECYCLE TO A FRIEND FOR READINGRATHER THAN THROW THIS PAPER OUT WHY NOT RECYCLE TO A FRIEND FOR READING

Happy Birthday Anita !!

2 giant Matherick Brownies with cream, covered in gnash!!!

Decorated by a talented 11 YO

Issue 21

Please redistribute rather than discard.

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