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Community Newspaper Issue 48, January 2014
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Issue 48, January 2014
continued page 3
The Around Point Cook Community Newspaper is distributed in Point Cook
Please redistribute rather than discard this paper - give it to your friends, family or neighbours!
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16 22 28 page ROTARY CLUB OF
LAVERTON POINT COOK
3D PRINTING – A PIECE OF CAKE
2013 COMMUNITY BANK® GRANT PROJECTS
page page
It is something I say a lot, but Wyndham is just bursting with opportunities for adventure!
If you are ever stuck for something to do, check out the Experience Wyndham section of the Wyndham city website.
2014 is already looking the goods, with January, February and March already having notable festivities.
Australia Day celebrations have relocated to the VU Athletics track on Hoppers Lane.
Live entertainment, fireworks and a carnival-like atmosphere will be ready to greet families, looking to celebrate this great nation in style.
February 2nd sees the Werribee Park transformed into a backdrop for some of Australia’s finest cheese and cider artisans. Fromaig a Trois is a festival
TAKE A LOOK AROUNDby Melissa Longo
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ABN 78 809 543 573
Advertising: [email protected] Contributions: [email protected]
Will: 0449 834 359Louise: 0403 191 084
PUDDLING WITH THE PUBLISHER
FROM THE EDITORWell it is incredible how quickly time does fly when your having fun. By the time you read this it will be January already and the year will have started. There will have been some excellent fireworks on New Years Eve and hopefully everyone is ready to take on the 2014 year.
And quoting some great lyrics from Nina Simone, “It’s a new dawn, it’s a new day, it’s a new life for me…… and I’m fee-eelin’ gooood.” Insert horns here.
If you are keen to get involved in this local paper we are looking for people who like to go to local events and who would be willing to take a few pics and write
up something for the paper each month. Nothing beats the words of a local writer who has a passion for their local community. That is the sort of thing we want, local people talking to local people about local events.
We try and get as much advertising as we can to keep the paper running, we then offer free print to local not for profits to market their events or community groups.
I am very excited about what this year may bring.
Warm RegardsDaniel Allen
Happy New Year to all who take part in our community conversation and more so to those of you that contribute articles, comments, to the inbox, and the in brief page.
Regular readers will know that you can always get a copy of the paper on the Internet and we also have a mailing list that sends a copy to you on or to your overseas or other friends on the first of the month – the address is always in the paper.
Rupert Murdoch tells us the future of printed newspapers is ending and only digital copy will remain – however Warren Buffet, the worlds’ richest man, doesn’t agree with Rupert and is currently buying community newspapers as he sees them as a rising investment - so I’m with Warren!
If you’ve read my articles concerning support for the Gen Y generation and the attempt to reduce their official unemployment rate of 25.5% and rising, the group is currently opening a Web site at www.gen-y-group.com where you can learn of the group’s efforts to help and perhaps you can assist in reducing this national disaster confronting all members of the community.
What’s this national disaster?
Does it take much to imagine if one quarter of youngsters in, say 5 years from now are still unemployed and not being trained, maybe even 10 or even 15 years still without a job – it’s easy for me as I know several 20 year olds and even a 30 year old who has never had more than a casual few hour’s work since leaving school.
So who is going to pay taxes, GST, buy a home and contribute to the national pool that covers all the services we need to keep our living standard where it is? – Not the 25.5% without a job are they – can you help the gen-Y-group solve this community problem in 2014?
I guess if it’s not fixed it will just be a burden for the other 75% who do have a job – I’m sure they won’t enjoy it!
Bill McPherson
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Advertise with Around Point Cook/Altona community newspapers
Contact
WillM: 0449 834 359
LouiseM: 0403 191 084
PUT THE BUZZZBACK INTO YOUR BIZ!
looking to tantalise your taste buds.
With live music and the gorgeousness of our historical surroundings.
This day looks set to become a permanent fixture on the Wyndham events calendar.
March has a couple of reasons to get excited. Friday 14th sees the Shadowfax Winery play host to the Worlds Longest Lunch.
Running in conjunction with Melbourne’s Food and Wine Festival, this fantastic event combines jazz music and five courses of deliciousness, perfectly matched with Shadowfax wines, of course.
With only 110 seats available, be sure to book your tickets fast.
Live on the Lawn is gathering traction, with a lineup sure to please music lovers everywhere.
Bernard Fanning and Pete Murray top the bill, so mark down the 16th of March, because supporting
Aussie music, as well as our local events is so important!
For further information on any of these fantastic upcoming Wyndham attractions go to http://www.experiencewyndham.com.au.
Melissa Longo
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In the December, 2013 issue of “Around Point Cook”, we published under the title, “The Thoughts of an Old Man in a Local Nursing Home”, a beautiful poem which we erroneously ascribed to an Anonymous poet.
At least two of our readers had seen this poem before under a different title and took the trouble to research its provenance and authorship.
The poem was in fact written by a Scottish lady named Phyllis Mabel McCormack who passed away in 1994 at age 80.
Originally titled “Look Closer Nurse”, she wrote it in the early 1960’s for publication in the Sunnyside Chronicle, which was produced by the staff of the Sunnyside Royal Hospital, Dundee, Scotland, for circulation within the hospital. Ms McCormack, an employee of the hospital, submitted it anonymously as she felt it could be taken as critical of her colleagues.
A copy of the magazine was loaned to an old lady who was a patient at another hospital located at Ashludie near Dundee. Before returning the magazine, the old lady copied the poem out in her own handwriting, giving it the title, “Crabbit Old Woman”.
“Crabbit” is a Scots word meaning “bad-tempered” or “grumpy”. She kept her copy in her bedside cabinet.
When she died and the staff collected her belongings,
they found what she had copied and wrongly assumed that she was the author of Ms McCormack’s poem.
It was submitted to the Sunday Post, a Dundee newspaper. They published it ascribing the authorship as Anonymous.
The publishers quickly published a correction, but to no avail. And so the legend of its anonymity began and persists to this day.
The poem appeared, without attribution, in a magazine the Nursing Mirror, in 1972. Ms McCormack explained in a letter to this journal how she came to write this poem for her hospital newsletter.
This story was corroborated by an article in the Daily Mail on 12 March, 1998, where Phyllis McCormack’s son wrote that his mother composed it in the 1960’s, and submitted it anonymously with the title, “Look Closer Nurse”, to the Sunnyside hospital magazine.
The poem was also published, without title or attribution, in Chris Searle’s poetry anthology, Elders (Reality Press, 1973).Subsequently, a wealth of urban legend has sprung up surrounding this excellent poem. For the most part, it is attributed to a senile old woman in a Dundee nursing home, or sometimes an Irish nursing home.
Chris Searle himself was quoted in 1998 as saying, of the poem’s authorship, “I don’t think we’ll ever know. I accepted it as authentic”; in other words the work of an old and infirm woman.
The poem has appeared in Texas, USA with the title, “Thoughts of an Old Man”, and in Melbourne, Australia, titled “Grumpy Old Man”.
Let us hope that our acknowledgement of Phyllis McCormack to poetry will finally do justice to this lady’s memory.
Should you have missed the poem you will find it on the Web in our previous issue. It is well worth reading – that’s why we published it!
Bill McPherson
THOUGHTS OF AN OLD MAN
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Sitting at home, staring out of the window and oh so bored because you have one or more mobility ailments that make walking a real problem?
Almost everyone has been independent all their lives and they are not about to ask for help now. Well, that’s very, very wrong and that can be changed with just a simple phone call!
Senior or disabled members of our community should have every chance to enjoy life to the full in every way and in many cases it is just the purchase of the right Mobility Scooter that solves the problem.
A new Shoprider may be all that is needed to give the support and confidence needed to get out and about. Get back out into the community and spend many more years in independence and out of that retirement home.
For more information see Scooter videos on our website www.mobilityonline.com.au or phone 03 9742 6254.
RETIREMENTAT HOME
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2013 was a busy year for everyone at Altona City Theatre. Last years production season saw dedicated cast and crew produce a total of four shows, including the theatres popular annual pantomime, ensuring there was something to cater for everyone’s interests.
The 2013 season may have just ended but there’s no rest for the theatres committee with the production season for 2014 already decided upon and rehearsals already in full swing.
The theatre was delighted to announce that the pantomime for this year will be Cinderella, a classic fairytale with an edgy twist that is sure to be a hit with children and adults alike. Cinderella producer Mark Crick is eager to get started after producing the theatres pantomime Jack and the Beanstalk for the first time last year.
“It’s great to be involved from the word go, from seeing a show start as an idea and then watching everything come to life on stage is a really rewarding experience, I cannot wait to get started” said Crick.
Also on the cards for 2014 is Oliver! based on the original novel by Charles Dickens, as well as the hit musical Fame which is set to grace the stage later in the year.
“I look forward to working with the many new faces that have joined us already this year. Everyone working on and off stage behind the scenes brings something unique to the theatre so I am eager to see what our talented cast and crew can do” said Crick.
Altona City Theatre is always on the lookout for volunteers to assist with everything from costume making and set building to working backstage. If you have a creative flair or want to perform on stage you can contact Altona City Theatre via their website listed below. For tickets and booking information visit www.altonacitytheatre.com.au or like Altona City Theatre on Facebook for updates and information on upcoming shows.
By Melissa Haber.
LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION!
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According to Wikipedia, a New Year’s resolution “is a promise that you make to yourself to start doing something good or stop doing something bad on the first day of the year.” We make these promises to ourselves year in and year out, (usually in an alcohol-induced haze); the champagne bubble bursts and all that remains is a hangover and a distinct sense of disappointment.
So how do we make these resolutions stick?
Be realistic for a start. The bigger the promise is, the bigger the let down, when you do not manage to follow through. Lists are always helpful to me.
Write down your successes for 2013 and then write down your failings. With any luck your first list is longer than the latter. Irrespective of the year that was, you will know simply by looking at both lists, where your life needs the most work.
People usually concern themselves with health and rightly so – the healthier you are, the more resolutions you are likely to make as the years roll by. Quit smoking, eat less McDonalds, take up jogging – these are all worthy pursuits. The problem is staying on this new healthier path.
Do not let yourself be an all or nothing kind of person. If you feel like January might outlast your resolution, don’t give up – just start again. Bad habits are hard to break and new ones are even harder to form. Persistence is useful, but forgiving yourself for not always staying on track, is just as effective.
Personally, I am planning on focusing on a different kind of health in 2014 – mental health. Stress is such a problem in our society. Everybody is trying to cram so much in to everyday and the overload is killer.
As much as I want to believe that I am Superwoman, every once and awhile I crash and am forced to admit, that I cannot do it all. It is OK to ask for help and even better to offer it to someone in need.
I am not a wealthy person, but there are many with far less than I. My mantra for the New Year will be Appreciate the Little Things. I am going to buy a stranger a cup of coffee, read at least one book a month and say ‘Yes” as often as I can.
Life is so short and everyday we are faced with challenges and opportunities – you rarely have one without the other, but that is all right.
Be safe this New Year’s Eve. Make sure you are with the people you love. Above all, spend 2014 doing what makes you happy – chances are that if you are happy, the people around you will be too.
Surely that is a resolution worth keeping.
Melissa Longo
2014 – RESOLVE TO BE HAPPY!
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Do you know your Brie from your Camembert? Do you enjoy a tipple of fresh, sparkling cider? Wyndham City has the event for you and it’s only 30 minutes from the heart of Melbourne.
An exciting new Wyndham City event - Fromage a Trois – Cheese, Cider and You, is a showcase of Australian specialty cheese and cider and will be held in the grounds of spectacular Werribee Park on Sunday 2 February, 2014.
Wyndham City’s Events Manager Emily Keogh said it is a perfect opportunity to bring a picnic blanket, a few friends and enjoy a lazy afternoon discovering and sampling the very best in artisan produce.
“At Fromage A Trois, you will have the opportunity to taste, purchase and experience some of Australia’s finest specialist cheeses, ciders, boutique beers, gourmet cuisine and premium wines,” Ms Keogh said.
“Some of Australia’s premier cheese and cider producers will be there, so you can meet the maker and savour the best this country has to offer. Those
who want to extend their experience can attend a workshop where they’ll be able to learn about the ancient crafts of cheese and cider making.”
“Acclaimed author, cider-maker and wine critic, Max Allen, will host masterclasses on perfect pairings for cheese and cider while Matt Harrop, from Werribee South’s Shadowfax Winery, will battle Max in the ultimate question – What’s better with Cheese - Cider or Wine?”
“While you’re enjoying some tasty delights, you’ll also be able to relax and soak up the sounds of some wonderful music that will be playing on the main stage throughout the afternoon – it’ll the perfect day out.”
General entry tickets are on sale now for $25 while masterclass tickets (including general entry) are $40. Tickets can be purchased at your nearest Ticketek outlet or by visiting www.ticketek.com.au
For more information on Fromage A Trois – Cheese, Cider and You phone Wyndham City’s Events Unit on 9742 0777 or visit www.fromageatrois.com.au
A VINTAGE CELEBRATION OF CHEESE AND CIDER
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Housing and Tenancy Stress in Wyndham
Housing and tenancy issues are of primary concern to Wyndham residents. Although Wyndham is considered to have affordable housing options and some of Melbourne’s lowest rents, Victoria Police are executing eviction warrants on approximately 22 rental properties every month in Wyndham. According to VCAT data, the number of eviction warrants executed in Wyndham has increased 40% from 2011, to more than 263 evictions during the financial year 2012/2013.
Some of the reasons behind the housing crisis include unemployment, family breakdown and changes to Centrelink payments. In fact, Lalor’s electorate showed the highest number of families on single-parent payments in Australia before the recent change that moved them to a Newstart Allowance once the youngest child turned eight. This meant their income dropped from $980 to $850 a fortnight. Some families stripped of up to $180 per fortnight are often unable to meet their needs and rental arrears are not as high a priority as food and utilities. In many cases, this is not a financial budgeting issue; it is inadequate income to cover basic costs such as accommodation, utilities and food. People are paying on average 65% of their income on private rent and in some cases, up to 80%.
Recent data from Community Legal Centres across the western suburbs have shown that the majority of clients they assisted in the financial year 2012/2013, most involved a dispute relating to bond claims by the landlord; applications for possession due to rent arrears; and repairs. The outreach solicitors (from Footscray Community Legal Centre) have also reported that the main issue the duty service at Werribee VCAT faces is the high rate of non-attendance.
There are legal and practical options available to a person suffering housing and tenancy stress. To obtain FREE legal advice, contact the Wyndham Legal Service on 97410198 to make an appointment.
Regards,ShornaWyndham Legal Service
FREE LEGAL ADVICE @ WYNDHAM LEGAL
SERVICE
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In the final weeks of 2013, the Abbott Government announced that they would abandon their guaranteed “unity ticket” with Labor on school funding.
Under the previous Labor Government, $14.65 billion in needs-based funding was to be provided to our schools over the next six years.
But, in spite of their pre-election promise, the Abbott Government has only committed to providing $2.8 billion in funding over 4 years. That’s a difference of nearly $12 billion.
Even more alarmingly, Mr Abbott has confirmed that Federal funding will be provided with ‘no strings attached’ for states and territories governments.
Under Labor, for every two dollars provided by the Federal Government, the state would need to chip in one.
This ensured a fair, balanced and sustainable approach to education funding, while at the same time boosting resources for our schools.
But under the Abbott Government’s plan, not only
will our schools be getting less in Federal funding, state and territory governments will be free to cut their own contributions.
They’re also refusing to clearly commit to targeting loadings in order to assist the students most in need.
Before the election, the Coalition’s pledged “you can vote Liberal or Labor and you’ll get exactly the same amount of funding for your school”.
That is now clearly a broken promise.
A broken promise to parents, to students and to our schools.
Throughout 2014 I’ll be fighting to ensure that the full six years of funding is provided to every local school as they were promised.
Joanne RyanMember for LalorPh. (03) 9742 [email protected]/36 Synnot St, Werribee 3030
ABBOTT GOVERNMENT BREAKS PROMISE ON SCHOOL FUNDING
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Hobsons Bay City Council Mayor Sandra Wilson has called for a broad range of support for Toyota to continue its manufacturing in Altona.
“Holden’s decision to cease manufacturing in Australia from 2017 will have ripple effects which will impact Toyota,” Cr Wilson said.
“There is a real need now for the Federal Government to deliver on the promise made by Prime Minister Tony Abbott yesterday,” Cr Wilson said.
The Prime Minister is quoted as saying: “I certainly want to try to ensure that we keep Toyota in this country, because Toyota, unlike Holden, have got higher volumes of higher exports.”
Cr Wilson said Toyota and its workforce here in Hobsons Bay need some certainty at this difficult time “Toyota is a key corporate citizen and employs around 2400 people, many of them local residents.
There is a need now for the Federal Government to articulate how it might use its car assistance plan to support Toyota’s ongoing operation in Altona.
“This Council is positive about and committed to the long-term economic success of Hobsons Bay and is developing an economic strategy in partnership with key stakeholders.”
“There are many opportunities for new investment, diversification and the creation of new jobs.”
“Our municipality’s economic success has been built on our manufacturing and industrial sectors.
They are an important part of our history and we’ll do everything we can to ensure they continue to play a role in our economic future,” Cr Wilson said.
THE LOSS OF HOLDEN
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Wyndham City is improving its environmental sustainability with the Civic Centre the first building in the country to be registered to achieve a Green Star – Performance rating from the Green Building Council of Australia.
The Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA) launched the Green Star – Performance rating tool in October last year to improve the efficiency and environmental sustainability of Australia’s existing buildings.
Wyndham Mayor, Cr Bob Fairclough said Wyndham City jumped at the opportunity to sign up to the pilot program.
“In order to achieve a Green Star – Performance rating, Wyndham City will be upgrading the Civic Centre’s energy and water efficiency and reviewing heating, cooling, lighting and waste management systems,” Cr Fairclough said.
“Wyndham City has implemented a range of sustainability measures across its existing buildings in recent years including energy and water efficiency upgrades and community e-waste recycling hubs.”
“As part of the Wyndham Environment and Sustainability Strategy, Wyndham City is aiming for a 40 per cent reduction in corporate greenhouse gas emissions by 2015 and a range of measures are being undertaken including an energy efficient upgrade to our street lights.”
“These measures highlight our commitment to reducing our environmental footprint and through our involvement with Green Star – Performance, we’ll be able to measure the environmental performance of the Civic Centre, identify pathways to improve the building over time and reduce its operational costs.”
For more information phone Wyndham City’s Environment and Sustainability unit on 9742 0777 or visit www.wyndham.vic.gov.au
WYNDHAM PROVES IT’S EASY BEING GREEN
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We are all a year older in 2014 – New Year’s Celebrations come and go, some of us make resolutions, some of us resolve not to make any promises. Why not then, make your own personal wish list for 2014.
If you could choose what 2014 is to bring – opportunities to spend time with family and friends, a new job, a
fitter, stronger body, more chances to do the things you like doing – what would be your top 50?
Sometimes putting what you want down on paper (okay I’m still a paper girl – you might use your computer or smartphone), can be a springboard for planning what you need to do to get there.
Julia Cameron, author of The Artist’s Way’ and ‘Finding Water - The Art of Perseverance’ says writing a daily journal or ‘Morning Pages’ as she calls them, can assist in making your plans your reality.
Julia adds that knowing what you want allows you, “to improve these odds by taking small actions in our own behalf. This is the power of perseverance, what I call “laying track”… for example, in preparation for my French trip, I can “Work with French tapes one hour daily.” I can “Buy a small French-English dictionary.” I
can “Buy a guidebook to Paris.”
You can find out about the practice of morning pages by visiting Julia Cameron’s website at http://juliacameronlive.com/basic-tools/morning-pages
Perhaps there’s a habit you’ve wanted to break. Motivation to Move’s Scott Smith runs ‘The Daily Boost’ podcasts. One in particular, “How to break ALL your bad habits” (free on itunes), says the key lies in replacing an old habit you don’t want anymore with something you do want to do – another good reason to look at your top 50. A lot of podcasts are free or you get to sample a few from a set you pay for.
Audio books are now available from the local library and are great to listen to while standing on a crowded train, walking to the supermarket or even putting up the washing as I’ve discovered. More time for books was definitely on my list.
One good reason for having a wish list is that you can take an outside look at what is important to you. If your health is on that list, maybe it’s time to have a check up, take a class or change your weekend activity to include less electronic enjoyment and more active fun. It’s your wishes and you have as many as you choose to have.
Petronella Boonen
2014 WISH LIST
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Mohammed Shabbir Alam (Australia Day Ambassadorial Speaker)
ROTARY CLUB OF LAVERTON POINT COOK
The Rotary Club of Laverton Point Cook is delighted to announce that its Australia Day Ambassadorial Speaker this year will be Mohammed Shabbir Alam.
He is an inspirational speaker who migrated to Australia ten years ago and has been a shining example of someone who has given selfless devotion as a volunteer to the Australian community. His outstanding work with the Red Cross and State Emergency Services has resulted in him receiving a number of awards.
Don’t miss this opportunity to hear him speak at the annual Australia Day Event at Seabrook Primary School on the 26th of January 2014 commencing at 9am.
You will also be entertained by the Laverton Community Choir and a free community breakfast will be served (including a halal option).
Our Rotary club has had an exceptional year in support of youth development related projects and this culminated in a meeting in early December when many of the local youth we had assisted all came together to celebrate their achievements.
We also heard from outgoing student exchange student Mitch Atanasovski who the club has sponsored to go Brazil for a year and Valborg Vang from the Faroe Islands (Denmark) who the club is looking after this year.
Annual school scholarships of $500 each were presented to worthy students at eight local schools including Caranballac P9 College, Point Cook P9, Seabrook Primary, Westbourne Grammar, Laverton P12 and St Martin, Lumen Christi and Stella Maris Catholic Primary’s.
The Salvation Army toy appeal also received a major boost when both our Rotary club and the Altona Rotary club recently donated 100’s of toys to the Christmas Toy Appeal.
If you would like to make a difference to your community then please consider joining Rotary. Enquiries can be made via our website or facebook page at www.rotarylpc.org.au or facebook.com/RotaryLPC
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It’s very easy to head out of town for holiday get-togethers without realising there are some wonderful places to do just that right here on our doorstep.
Heathdale Glen Orden Wetlands Reserve is one of such places – space for young and forever-young walkers, bike riders, nature and fitness enthusiasts.
There are barbeques for the foodies and a choice of sheltered picnic areas, so that every family member is accommodated.
Equal access fitness stations are placed in a circuit around the reserve making your New Year’s resolution so much easier to accommodate.
The children’s playground has a fun spin on the ‘fitness’ feel of the area with some of our traditional favourites included to make it a ‘real’ kids’ park!
The reserve is home to various species of wildlife including the Purple Swamp Hen, the White faced Heron and the Spotted Marsh frog.
Wetlands play an important part in the well being of our suburbs as they are a water catchment area, providing a safe home for local and migratory species, which use the habitat for roosting and feeding their young.
For the rest of us, the Reserve is a great day out with something for everyone.
Adjacent is the Heathdale Glen Orden Football oval, you might also like to visit the Wyndham Park Community Centre and Werribee Mens Shed on the Reserve’s fringe, located at 55-57 Kookaburra Avenue, Werribee.
- Petronella Boonen
TOURIST AT HOME – HEATHDALE GLEN ORDEN WETLANDS RESERVE
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Required by Laverton Community CaféTo prepare meals every Wednesday for approx 5 hours.For more details please phone Ellen: 8368 0172Laverton Community Centre (Located in new Community Hub)95-105 Railway St, Laverton
Volunteer Cook
Volunteers for Emergency relief neededLaverton Community Centre need Volunteers forEmergency relief will be trained.
Must be able to use computer.Please contact. Ellen Volunteer
Coordinator PH: 8368 0172
Carer Support
Grow-Better Together Carers Group for friends and family of those affected by mental health issues. Free and confidential meetings held twice a month in Laverton.Details: 1800 558 268 or www.grow.net.au
Community Board
LAVERTON COMMUNITY CHOIR
The Laverton Community Choir invites you to attend a rehearsal as a guest
before you decide if you would like to join.
Experienced conductor, different and fun musical arrangements. No experience is
necessary just a love of singing. The choir rehearses every Thursday
7pm – 9pm at P-12 College, Bladin Street, Laverton.
COMMUNITY INFORMATION
CENTREINFORMATION ADVICE
AND REFERRAL SERVICE
MONDAY TO FRIDAY
10AM – 3PM
LEGAL SERVICE
THURSDAY FORTNIGHTLY
BY APPOINTMENT ONLY
PHONE NO: 9398 5207
JAMIESON WAY COMMUNITY CENTRE
Photography classes,
Sewing classes,
Karate, Bollytone, Playgroup, Scouts,
Cookie Kids 3+ Activity group, Tai Chi,
French/English conversation group, drawing classes,
Camera Club, Footy Tackers, Yoga, Learningland, Martial
Arts, Performing arts,
Kindy dance, card making workshops and more.
Contact 9395 3777 email: [email protected]
www.jamiesonwaycc.org.au
What’s on at the Centre
HOBSONS BAY LIFEACTIVITIES CLUB
If you're 50+ and enjoy Movies, Dining Out, BBQ's, Hikes etc
then we're just what you're looking for.
Meet new people, make new friends,
and join like minded people in a variety of
activities, both week days and weekends.
Try us out by attending a couple of functions
of your choice, with no obligation, before you decide.
For more information and a copy of our Club
Newsletter please contact:Alicia: 9741-4313 or Myra: 0432 258 804
Point Cook Playgroup
Point Cook Playgroup focuses on
teaching through play for 0 – 5yr olds in
a safe and friendly social environment.
We run from Jamieson Way community
Centre on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday
and Friday mornings. Limited places are
still available. For any enquiries please contact enrolments at:
T: 0417 348 336
Featherbrook Walking Group
Make new friends and improve your fitness by joining the Featherbrook Walking Group for a 45 minute stroll every Wednesday at 10am. Meet at
Featherbrook Community Centre, 33-35 Windorah Drive Point Cook. It’s free to join in and mums with prams are welcome. For more information call the
community centre on 8353 4000.
For more information phone Wyndham City’s Healthy Communities Team on 9742 0777, visit
www.wyndham.vic.gov.au or like our Healthy and Active in Wyndham page on Facebook.
ADAVIC ANXIETY & DEPRESSION
SUPPORT GROUPConnect with others in a safe environment to share experiences and coping strategies.Every Tuesday 7:30-9:30pm at the Louis Joel Arts & Community Centre, Sargood St, Altona.$5 Casuals / $3 MembersFor more info phone: (03) 9853-8089 | email: [email protected] | visit:www.adavic.org.au
Italian/EnglishTuition
call Louise on 0403 191 084
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Learn to Fly at Point Cook Flying Club
Phone 9395 1735www.pointcook.org
Help support you local community
group and join as a member at
www.pointcookactiongroup.org.au
Community Board
Coming Up at Seabrook Community CentreInterested in a new activity or group for yourself or your children?All programs and activities are now taking bookings for 2014 including jujitsu, dance, creative arts, pilates, yoga and mums and bubs exercise groups.The centre also hosts multiple sessions for the Seabrook Playgroup and weekly Weight Watchers meetings
See more information at www.seabrookcc.com.au or phone the centre on9932 3010Werribee and Districts Cancer Support GroupWe are a positive, uplifting, supportive group for all cancer patients, carers, family and friends. All welcome for a cuppa and chat on the 3rd Tuesday of every month at Wayaperri House, 106 Duncans Road, Werribee. Monthly meetings occasionally include guest speakers, or are held over dinner and creative and therapeutic activities can be arranged upon interest shown.Contact Steve Marburg (Convenor) on 0418 587 086 or by email on [email protected] or by post at PO Box 4405 Hoppers Crossing 3029or you can contact Koula on 9734 6498.
POINT COOK TOASTMASTERS CLUB
IMPROVE YOUR LEADERSHIP AND SPEAKING SKILLS
IN A MUTUALLY SUPPORTIVE AND FUN ENVIRONMENT
EVERY 1ST AND 3RD THURSDAY @ 7.30pm
PC LEARNING CENTRE, CHEETHAM STTel: 0409 383 257 (Judy) for more info
Point Cook Presbyterian Church
is moving
We were meeting at 5pm Sundays at the Point Cook RAAF Base Chapel.
As of Sunday the 20th of October 2013 the Church will be meeting in the Jamieson Way Community
Centre, 59 Jamieson Way, Point Cook.Worship services will be held at 10am except Community Market Sundays (6 times a year)
when the service will be held at 4.30pm.Check the website – pointcookpc.org.au
All Welcome.Contact: Rev. Peter Owen 9395 8281
Point Cook Walking
Group
Women and Men of all Ages Welcome.
• Discover Point Cook
• Meet New Friends
• Keep Fit and Healthy
• Friendly and Relaxed
Mon, Tues & Wed at 9.00am
Leaving from Point Cook Town Centre at the Dry
Cleaners- Coles Precinct.
Thurs & Fri at 9.00am
Leaving Jamieson Way Community Centre,
59 Jamieson Way, Point Cook.
ALTONA U3AWe area located at the Senior Citizens
Centre in Sargood Street, AltonaWe would be very happy to welcome
you as a new member.U3A means a Community of people sharing knowledge in the 3rd part of their lives.
It is for all active, retired people.Our activities are varied and new ideas are welcome – perhaps you have a skill to share
with? We also have social outings and are a happy, supportive group.
All for a low cost.The office is open Mon-Fri 10am - 12.30pm.
Ph: 9398 1346 or email [email protected].
Notice Board POets are Gathering
Poetry of all types –pure, applied, old, new, historic, good, all styles, whatever
• Cartoons • Photos • Ideas • Quotes
e: [email protected] Snail Mail (with stamped envelope
for reply please) to PO Box 164, Warrnambool, 3280
FOR SALE carpet tiles, 20sq meters
***Emmanuel College boys uniform
***corner spa indoor plus motor
$200 as new***
Mackillop girls uniform for sale size 10
call Louise on 0403 191 084
Mini Picasso Creative Arts school holiday
program is running from January 13th
and 20th in the cottage and includes clay
painting, stencil art, patchwork and action
paining. Full or half day sessions for ages 5 to
12. Phone Helen on 0415 039 791. Regular
programs back at the centre for 2014 include
jujitsu, yoga, hey dee ho, playgroups, pilates,
mums exercise and dance classes as well as
counselling and MCH services.
See www.seabrookcc.com.au for more
details over January.
Seabrook Community
Centre School
Holiday Programs
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The Altona, Laverton/Altona Meadows and Point Cook Community Bank® branches Bendigo Bank recently announced the successful recipients of the 2013 Community Grants Program at the Laverton Community Hub.
Altona, Laverton/Altona Meadows and Point Cook Community Bank® branches have since its inception been committed and active supporters of the local community.
Community Bank® branches across Australia are unique in that a portion of their profits are returned to their local communities each year through grants, sponsorships and donations. This philosophy is something that the local staff and the Board are passionate about.
“Since opening the doors in 2000, our customers have helped us to return more than $2.7 million to support important community groups and projects’’
’’Operated by a local Board of Directors, a Community Bank® branch is unique, proudly returning a portion of profit to the local area each year through grants and sponsorships.’’
“We believe a bank’s role is to feed into prosperity, not off it,” he said.
“If we can help create a vibrant community, generate support for community business and foster strong and long lasting partnerships, we will grow our own business and promote a highly effective local economy.
This year, 25 local groups will share in over $60,000.00 which was made available to community organisations to develop and enhance the Altona, Laverton / Altona Meadows & Point Cook communities. It is the 8th year that the Community Bank® company has participated in the grants program.
These included local Seabrook Kindergarten with its Kids in the Kitchen project. Their grant will be used to create a ‘home corner’ in the kinder room. This room has 124 children, aged 3-5 years attending activity programs and kindergarten each week.
The home corner is an area where children can use their imagination, build their confidence, develop self-help skills and make sense of the world. Another local recipient was the Rainbow Club.
This group provides swimming instruction to children with special needs such as autism or other mental or physical impairments. This funding will assist the group to provide safety clothing to protect volunteers from injury in the pool.
This will be achieved by providing each with a brightly coloured safety vest (red for males and pink for females) with a symbol of a rainbow on the back.
2013 COMMUNITY BANK® GRANT PROJECTS
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The fusion of technology and art came to the community thanks to Cake Industries’ and the Big West Festival.
The instalment was held at Harrington Square Altona, one of many venues chosen for the biennial event.
The first thing we noticed as we approached were robots manning giant remote control cars, which were having a game of soccer in the car park. Visitors
were encouraged to have a go. Media artists Jesse Stevens, Dean Petersen and team presented me with a business card made with a rubber stamp, created on one of the working 3D printers on display.
“This is about people engagement,” Mr Stevens said. “Helping young people understand that technology can be creative. We utilise open design/source software.”
The 3D printers varied in construction from a $2,000 whizz bang machine to a $300 kit you can make up yourself. Difficulty level?
"It's like any skill,” says team member Sebastian, “As long as you know the rules and you have lots of time to work through it, you can do it."
We had two objects printed. A bust of PC editor Dan Allen and Bianca, our seven-year-old granddaughter.To create the 3D image, Dan and Bianca had to sit very still in a swivel chair and then rotate on the spot.
The scanner then scanned above their heads collecting the feature's position from the dots.
3D PRINTING – A PIECE OF CAKE
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"You can also print in colour but that's a more lengthy process," Sebastian added.
The result was two super, cool cake toppers! One was a little malformed on one side caused by someone wriggling on the swivel chair but Bianca’s image was pristine!
You can find some more information about Cake Industries and their current project Robot Road Trip via their website www.cake.net.au or facebook at www.facebook.com/pages/cake-industries.
This was the first time Big West held an event at Westona. The Aboriginal welcoming ceremony leader explained the leaf of Muryong represented a welcome to the land and its resources - the elders of the community keeping culture alive to nurture youth, who with that support become more resilient.
"You are walking through a physical merge of the old and the young," he said.
Year 11 Mount St Joseph's students entertained visitors with 99.9 mobile community radio program including interviews and comedic performances by local acting school Dramawerkz.
Petronella Boonen
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The CWA Altona Day Group would like to congratulate Austin on winning our first raffle. Austin’s sister, Sister Claire from Altona purchased 2 tickets from 2 different books. Sister Claire was told it was good luck to take a ticket from both books.
In doing so Sister Claire has given her brother Austin a lovely surprise.
The CWA Altona Day Group has held 3 stalls to help raise money to put back into the community. We started our group earlier this year. As a new group I would like to thank our member’s and volunteer’s for there time and donations of wool, beads and other materials which has helped us set up our new group in a very caring and supportive way.
We are looking forward to next year and are having more stalls and event’s to help us with our new projects. We meet at 10am every 3rd Wednesday in the month at Louis Joel Arts and Community Centre, in Sargood Street Altona. We look forward to next year and to welcoming any new members.
Thank you for your support.
The ladies of the CWA Altona Day Group.
COUNTRY WOMEN’S ASSOCIATION UPDATE
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“I am deeply concerned about the impact that the impending closure of Holden will have on the sustainability of Toyota to continue to manufacture vehicles at its Altona plant, and in turn the effect on the jobs of many workers who are employed in the supply of component parts to the local vehicle industry,” State Member for Altona District Jill Hennessy said today.
“The stress that it is putting on local workers and their families in these tough times must be overbearing”, she said
“It is tough times for these workers and their families as they come to grips with the very real possibility of lost incomes and jobs,” Ms Hennessy said.
“The worrying thing for the West is that we are home to many tradies and workers who rely on the auto and components industry for their livelihood.
“The Liberal Party have simply not done enough to support local jobs,” Ms Hennessy said.
“What these workers need is a government willing to assist with the creation of new jobs and protect those which already exist.
“The manufacturing industry is one of the most important employers of people in the western suburbs and it is way past time that Government ensured the longevity of our local jobs”’ she said.
HENNESSY - TIME TO SUPPORT LOCAL
MANUFACTURING WORKERS
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The genus Solanum contains such well-known economic plants as the potato, tomato, aubergine (eggplant), tobacco, and many more. Of the 117 species of Solanum that occur in Australia, 87 are endemic.
Solanum laciniatum, commonly called the Kangaroo Apple, occurs in New South Wales, Victoria, Tasmania, South Australia and also in New Zealand.
A large shrub, it produces two types of leaf - large lance-shaped or irregularly lobed juvenile leaves and smaller, generally entire, lanced-shaped adult leaves. Both types of leaf are a rich dark green on the upper surface, a lighter green on the under surface, and have conspicuous veins.
The five-petalled bluish purple flowers with bright yellow anthers appear spasmodically during spring and summer; in clusters of three to five in the leaf axils.
The egg-shaped berries that are initially green then yellow and, finally, a bright yellow-orange are poisonous when under-ripe, but edible when perfectly ripe.
Indigenous to our area, a self-seeded plant appeared in our garden. As I had been wanting to paint this species for some time, I encouraged Alex to leave it where it was ... for the time being at least. From memory, the bush was in our garden for thee or four years, but it became scraggly and badly in need of a prune. Never trust a man with secateurs - I guess Alex attacked it a little too vigorously, because it never recovered. However, as these are short-lived bushes with a life expectancy of around five or six years, it would probably have died of old age within the next year or two.
“Wild Lime”, a book by Juleigh Robins, has a comprehensive page on how best to prepare Bush Tomatoes, another common name for Kangaroo Apples.
Helene Wild
SOLANUM LACINIATUM – KANGAROO APPLE
Garden page
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Spontaneous Appeal for single, young ‘No Advantage’ Asylum Seekers.
Dear Bill
As you know, since August - when Federal Government policies on asylum seekers became much more stringent than ever before - the HBRN has been trying to assist ‘No Advantage’ asylum seekers (the ones who are not allowed to undertake paid work) in 2 ways: we help them find low-cost rental accommodation, and we then equip their flats, units, houses, to a basic level, with furniture and equipment donated by the local community.
Just yesterday, we were alerted to the existence of a desperately poor SUB-group of the ‘no advantage’ lot.
These are the 18-22 year olds - almost all men - who have no family support. People who are working with these young single men tell us that they are much worse off than are families. Now, suddenly without notice or publicity THE GOVERNMENT HAS JUST CUT THEIR ALLOWANCE FROM THE $440 OR SO THEY WERE GETTING EACH FORTNIGHT - TO $368.00. Out of this amount, they must pay for food, transport, telephone (their life-line), energy; and they must repay the Federal Government for the loan of their first month’s rent in advance, and their rental bond, and they are not allowed to work.
This is appallingly harsh. They were finding it hard enough to survive before the latest cut; now, many of them are just not able to manage. They are not eligible for many of the supplements and extra support that families receive - and they really do need a helping hand.
For those of us working in the community with this group of asylum seekers, the growing incidence of mental stress and depression is palpable.
HBRN have agreed to make up individual Christmas hampers for the young men in this group. We would like to include food that they cannot usually afford: coffee, chocolates, tinned plum pudding, good quality dried fruits etc. as well as some personal items that young men might appreciate: shaving gear, toothbrushes and toothpaste, toilet soap (essentials for us, luxuries for them).
Many thanks for reading this,
IF YOU WISH TO ASSIST PLEASE CONTACT: Ann Morrow & Dorothy Page, Convenors of HBRN P: 9397 6401
EDITOR: This arrived after our previous deadline for the Christmas issue. We have however chosen to publish this now anyway should you wish to get involved and help them in a financial or volunteer capacity throughout 2014.
LETTER TO THE PUBLISHER: HOBSONS BAY REFUGEE NETWORK (HBRN)
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New Year resolutions! They’re what you promise yourself to do during the year to improve your life.
And while we all want to do that, such resolutions also have a bonus. They’re good for your health. Having said that, let’s be honest, healthy or not, how likely are we to keep those good intentions going right through 2014?
Could it be that our glowing resolve to live a happy, healthy life fades because we think it requires an “all or nothing” approach. If so, take heart. Leslie Spry, M.D. believes there’s another way for sticking to our plans for self-improvement and achieving better health.
According to Spry, “When it comes to establishing a healthy lifestyle, small changes can make a big difference.”
Spry could just be right. Making small changes to the way we think, could prevent our New Year resolutions from being washed away by the incoming tide of life.
That’s why resolutions based on the idea of “more” and “less”, could add up to rock-solid success.
Resolution: I will have more gratitude, less grumbling.
The problem with complaining about one’s affairs is that it often obscures the good that’s close at hand.
This echoes the now familiar proverb “Can’t see the forest for the trees”, included in John Heywood’s collection back in 1546.
A common expression, it describes someone who is too involved in the details of a problem to look at the situation as a whole.
During a phone conversation, a friend of mine broke into tears. “I just feel so poor”, she lamented.
In helping to lift her spirits, I asked if she and her kids currently had a roof over their heads, beds to sleep in, clothes to put on, some food for dinner, and at least one coin left in her shopping purse?
When she answered yes to each question, I gently said, “Then you’re actually more rich, and less poor.”
I heard in her voice a small change of thought when she responded with, “Then I need more gratitude for the good I have, and to do less complaining.”
TIP:
• Be more prepared to make a small change in thought.
• Complain less. Look at your whole life, not just an
NEW YEAR RESOLUTIONS! THEY’RE GOOD FOR YOUR HEALTH.
unhappy bit of it.
• Be more grateful for the good already received. Such gratitude is good for your health.
• Take advantage of the blessings you have at hand, and “thus be fitted to receive more.” (Mary Baker Eddy, Science and Health p. 3)
Resolution: I will be more positive, less negative.
It’s easy to slip into a state of thinking that constantly sees the “glass half empty” as the saying goes.
You know the kind of thing, “I won’t be able to buy what I need. I’m worried I won’t be able to make ends meet”.
With a small change in attitude, it’s possible to have less negative expectations and more beneficial, happiness-bringing ones.
When my mother needed an item for the house, herself or the family, instead of being sick with worry about her limited resources, she’d leave home with the positive expectation that her shopping needs would be met.
Many times, although she had little money in her purse, no credit card at her disposal, and no internet to help her locate the best deals, she’d find the exact right thing at the price she could afford.
TIP:
• Be more optimistic, confident that your needs will be met.
• Be heartened by this ancient wisdom: “Certainly, goodness and mercy will stay close to me all the days of my life”.
• Encourage yourself to have more peace of mind, less worry.
New Year resolutions for happier, healthier living can be made - and kept.
With small changes in the way we think, every excellent intention and aspiration to live a better, health-filled life can be achieved.
Point Cook resident Beverly Goldsmith, is a health blogger who is also a practitioner and teacher of Christian Science healing. www.spiritualityandhealthconnect.com
Twitter: @GoldsmithBev
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Now that summer is finally here, there’s no better way to cool down than at the Werribee Outdoor Olympic Pool in Werribee.
The facility, which is managed by Belgravia Leisure for Wyndham City features:
• An eight lane 50m heated pool with ramp access for people with disabilities.• A family friendly heated leisure pool, incorporating beach entry, water play features, shade shelters and a learn to swim area.• Additional shade and landscape areas designed for families and friends to enjoy the pool surrounds.• Outdoor BBQ which is available for group bookings or casual use.• Change room facilities including family and disabled change rooms.• Kiosk.The Pool’s extended summer hours have now started, giving you even more time to take to the water and escape the heat. Memberships and multi-visit passes are available while the Wyndham Leisure and Events Centre undergoes redevelopment.
Iramoo Ward Councillor Peter Gibbons said the Pool offers the perfect place to cool off on a hot day or bring the family for a picnic over summer.
“The Pool is a great place for a serious swim or a social splash and with extended operating hours until the end of April, you have even more time to enjoy its facilities,” Cr Gibbons said.
“As well as providing great facilities for swimming, there’s also plenty of other ways to stay entertained at the pool. Barbecue facilities and landscaped areas make it a great place for lunch or to relax in the shade with an ice cream.”
“The Outdoor Pool forms part of Wyndham City’s wide range of recreational infrastructure, which includes parks and reserves, sporting facilities and bicycle and walking paths and trails.”
“The 2013/2014 capital works budget includes plans to improve and expand these facilities, including the $45.4 million redevelopment of the Wyndham Leisure and Events Centre which is now well underway and will include a host of new features including more pools, waterslides and an expanded gym area.”
“During Summer, the Pool will also host a range of activities including a free Community Open Day on Friday, 10th January, 2014, and SuperSplash parties. The Pool also runs a Learn to Swim program for all ages, infants to adults.”
For more information on the pool, phone 9741 3218 or visit www.experiencewyndham.vic.gov.au
BEAT THE HEAT AT THE POOL
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The Archie Thompson School of Soccer (ATSOS) in Altona is fast approaching and Archie cannot wait. “We’re right in the middle of a really exciting A-League season, and our Altona camp in late January is the perfect time for boys and girls to get a head-start on their pre-season
training and hit the ground running,” says Thompson. Whilst based on an elite camp model, the ATSOS program aims to provide boys and girls, of all ability levels, a chance to meet some stars of the game and develop their skills in a friendly environment.Having launched in September 2013, the ATSOS 3 day camp program has been developed by Melbourne Victory and Socceroo star Archie Thompson in conjunction with experienced coaches. The program blends the vital elements of the FFA Curriculum with Archie’s desire to have fun and enjoy himself whilst out on the pitch. “I’m so excited about the program. I have often been approached to be part of holiday and after school soccer programs but never found the one that really fitted the way I thought it could be done. For me it has to be more than a few drills,” says Thompson. “We have a terrific structure that progresses from simple drills to complex game based situations. The game in Australia is getting bigger and better. I really wanted to put something together that was a terrific experience for the kids involved.”
In January 2014, ATSOS comes to Altona when it kicks off at Emmanuel College, St. Paul’s Campus from Tuesday January 21st to Thursday January 23rd. Archie would love to see all of the people from around Altona, Point Cook and Hoppers Crossing get along to his camp. Finish off your school holidays with an unforgettable experience! Be sure to check out the new ATSOS website and keep up to date with everything ATSOS at www.schoolofsoccer.com.au. Register now before it’s too late!Like us on Facebook! www.facebook.com/AT.School.of.Soccer. Follow us on Twitter! https://twitter.com/ATSOS_Australia
PUT A KICK IN YOUR HOLIDAY ‘TALE’!
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Laugh Out Loud
1. Johnny 's mother had three children. The first child was named April The second child was named May. What was the third child 's name?Answer: Johnny of course
2. There is a clerk at the butcher shop, he is five feet ten inches tall, and he wears size 13 sneakers. What does he weigh?Answer: Meat.
3. Before Mt. Everest was discovered, what was the highest mountain in the world?Answer: Mt. Everest; it just wasn 't discovered yet.
...You're not very good at this, are you?
4. How much dirt is there in a hole that measures two feet by three feet by four feet?Answer: There is no dirt in a hole.
5. What word in the English Language is always spelled incorrectly?Answer: Incorrectly
6. Billy was born on December 28th, yet his birthday is always in the summer. How is this possible?
Answer: Billy lives in the Southern Hemisphere
7. In California , you cannot take a picture of a man with a wooden leg. Why not?Answer: You can 't take pictures with a wooden leg. You need a camera to take pictures.
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ALBATROSS
The albatross, tireless wanderer,Has a wingspan of up to twelve feet;Greater than any feathered creature;At sustained flight, he’d be hard to beat.
His habitat is the southern seas;Soaring aloft no effort for him;But he can land on water with great ease;Equipped with webbed feet, he’s able to swim.
The whirr of chainsaws in the forestDoes not bother the albatross;The sea and sky are his address;For those doomed trees, he don’t give a toss.
Only birds of the passerine kindRegret the destruction of trees;Cut them all down; he would not mind;They can do with them what they please.
Ocean and sky satisfy his need,Being almost always on the wing;Coming to land once a year to breed;A treeless island for that just the thing.
Fishing is his living and sport;And he’s on the go both day and night;He’ll eat all the fish that he has caught,But not at table: he dines in flight.
Birds are exploited for food and fun;Many millions each year are trapped or shot;But this bird has no fear of the gun,Or ending up in a cooking pot.
Should you shoot one, your luck will turn bad,As the Ancient Mariner found to his costIn Coleridge’s Rime, a tale so sad,Of a matelot whose soul was thus lost.
Jack Nystrom,Thursday, 17 January, 2013
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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
Things That Make Me Smileby Bianca (aged 7)
PotatoesToysBathsCuddlesPoolCakeSchoolBooksMoviesBowlingSwimming ComputersSlideshowstaking photosGamescheesehamrunningdodge ballpoison ballscarecrow tiggymusicmaking thingsvanilla icecreamfamilyfriendsbedbikescooterdrawingplaygroundbeachsplashingsandcastlesfishdolphinsdogscatsmagiccard gamesbaked beanseggsbacon
Point Cook Kids
36 Please redistribute rather than discard.
