1

Letterboxed to homes in Altona and Seaholme, with new distribution points in Altona North, Altona Meadows and Williamstown

LIKE Around Altona on Facebook! Stay informed and view the paper online faster: www.facebook.com/AroundAltona

FREE

ISSUE 71, APRIL 2014

PLEASE DO NOT DISCARD - Give this paper to a friend or neighbour to read.

HOBSONS BAY MEN SHED GEN Y SUPPORT GROUP

OUR HOME IN WATERCOLOUR

ARTABILITY ART SHOW - 10 YEAR ANNIVERSARY

PAGE 3 PAGE 7 PAGE 10

NEXT STOP STATE ELECTION

The Altona Loop forum held on 20th March recapped on the continued frustration felt by commuters and it was the fi rst time that three political parties were represented. But then, it is an election year.Hobsons Bay Mayor Cr. Sandra Wilson said access to transport has one of the highest levels of importance to the Hobsons Bay community. “I can say we told you so,” Cr Wilson said about Metro’s decision to separate the Altona Loop from the Werribee line in 2011. “We knew it would be detrimental to the community [leading to a] thirty percent decrease in patronage. We’ve been dubbed as losers.”Jennifer Williams of the Altona Loop Group said it was disappointing that Public Transport Victoria did not turn up for the forum. “They are supposed to be responsible for customer feedback,” she said“Nothing has improved since the service was changed in 2011.”Ms Williams said it is a misconception that the group is

looking for duplication of tracks into the city when their aim is only for partial duplication necessary.CEO of Metro Mr Andrew Lezalla distributed some stat sheets to half of the group. He described the performance shortfall as ‘almost insignifi cant’ causing quite a few disgruntled comments from the audience. Mr Lezalla said the Regional Rail Link project was progressing well. He said the service would remove VLine trains from the current Werribee line and in doing so, commuters would no longer be required to change trains at Newport to get into the city.During question time he added Newport’s ‘old and tired’ signalling system had been replaced but the new system is fragile and needs more work. Melbourne University’s Dr John Stone said anger about our current transport situation should be taken up not with Andrew Lezalla but his employers, the State Government. “Metro shouldn’t be allowed to have KPIs that allow bypasses,” he said. “Transport planners in the government are saying we need road work and there is nothing we can do with public

Continue page 6...

Metro CEO Andrew Lezalla addresses the forum

Issue 712

RAMBLING WITH THE EDITOR

PUDDLING WITH THE PUBLISHERHere we are, a little more than a quarter of the way through 2014, with Easter holidays approaching rapidly and the economy is starting to rev up.

Even SPC, last month’s disaster, has, with the help of Woolies and Coke, found out one of my childhood favorite sayings, “I have had many troubles, most of which have never happened.” This is really true.

Due mainly to the enormous publicity from our media following the PM’s refusal to help the private company’ no doubt due to an expected avalanche of demands, the public rallied and suddenly SPC’s sales rose by some 60%, making the company become profi table instead of a dead loss for: the area, the staff, the contractors, the growers, the suppliers, even the local tourism industry, and perhaps the local council.

There’s a lesson here somewhere – I wonder what it is – perhaps you can tell me – is it patience, maybe a refusal to give up when you’re near the bottom.

I can’t leave you without reporting that the local Hobsons Bay Men’s Shed Gen Y Support Group has grown little legs and even small wings and is ready to fl y. Having received a loan of a 3D Printer from a supporter classes to help the unemployed youngsters get a job will be able to start in May. Want to know more about this disaster to our young people aged between 14 and 30 years old and what the community can do about it?

Email Gordon at Lescinsky1@fastmail.com.au and get the drum from him.

Bill McPhersonbillmcpherson@optusnet.co.au

What a great month for events and articles. It has been fi lled with festivity. Events such as Moomba, Weerama, Point Cook Air Show, Art Shows and much much more… In that mix my favorite was most certainly the Point Cook Air Show. Now there is going to be other articles about this so my contribution is very quick and short. What an unexpected outstanding event. Being a long time fan of the Avalon Air Show I had never seen the Point Cook version. What an event! Very successful and well attended and huge. Pictures tell a thousand words, so I will let them do the talking, but the most interesting part of the show for me was hearing an interview with the test pilot for the Joint Strike Fighters that Australia will be purchasing. He talked of computer game technology, a helmet that does everything for you, computers that identify things you need to see, that think for you. He talked of seeing in every

direction at once, through the aircraft, under his seat. I am glad these things are going to be part of our military. Having said that, one phrase in his interview frightened me and it was this component that made me remember how many times computers break down. He said “the computer chooses what is important,” does that worry anybody else?

I was a happy boy surrounded by fi ghters, cars, military aviation support equipment, radars, and everything else imaginable that interests people that go to these shows. People just like me.

Enjoy the photos.Regards

Daniel Allen

Issue 71 3

TO ADVERTISE IN AROUND ALTONA

COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERContact

Will - M: 0449 834 359 E: will@aroundaltona.com.au

Daniel - M: 0408 659 940 E: aroundsell@gmail.com

The Hobsons Bay Men Shed Gen Y Support Group is off to a great start with Julian Lescinsky of Altona making three records.

The fi rst being the No.1 Gen Y to join the HBMS Gen Y Support Group Fun Creation Workshop (an experiment to create employment for the Millennium Generation / Gen Y) aged between 14 and 30 years, to be trained for employment in an area where they already have expertise and whereby the business skill set of the retired generation can be transferred to them in a reasonable time.

The second one becoming the fi rst 16-year-old full member of the HBMS and the third being the son part of the fi rst father and son team at the shed.

The unemployment statistic of the group of 14 to 19 as at 30th June 2013 has grown to 25.5% rising from 23% in 2012, and is still rising.

What sort of training that could suit this group is planned?

As this generation received Laptop computer trading at and now having grown a smartphone in their hand, they

are generally computer literate.

It is the intention of the tutors to train them to become expert in the world of 3D printing and Internet marketing strategies.

To this end Around Altona has been able to arrange a loan of such a machine which will cause quite a deal of excitement for those who have not seen this magical machine at work.

The project launch is planned for the last week of April and is by invitation. If you would like to attend ring Bill McPherson on 8307 8872 or email him at: billmcpherson@optusnet.com.au

If you are a Gen Y and the project interest you it is free of charge and commences in May from 4.30 to 7.30 – one Friday a month is compulsory – phone or email for an interview, there are only 20 places available.

Bill McPherson

HOBSONS BAY MEN SHED GEN Y SUPPORT GROUP

Julian Lescinsky, the fi rst Trainee at the Hobsons Bay Mens Shed Gen Y Support Group, receiving his new Personal Business training

account with the courtesy of the Bendigo Bank Branch at Altona.

Issue 714

Issue 71 5

Issue 716

transport. That’s not true.“We need a plan that will be paid for with the East West Link funding.” The East West Link tollway is set to cost $8 billion.Dr Tony Morton of the Transport Users Association said politicians are the ones who create the policy and funding environment to make public transport happen. “Superfi cially our system is the same as other cities,” he said. “Networks don’t differ much except they’ve been looked after during the past fi fty years.”He said if we had state-of-the-art signalling and train control systems, Melbourne could have our trains running every ten minutes. Dr Morton also added it would be a relatively inexpensive project to duplicate the Altona Loop track. “No change in the world has happened without active, skilful, persistent community input,” Dr Stone added.State Liberal Member for Western Metropolitan Region Mr Andrew Elsbury said he understood the gripes about the Altona Loop. “I catch trains,” he said. “The Werribee Line is running to capacity.”Mr Elsbury added the result of the Regional Rail Link would mean every two VLine trains removed would allow room for three Metro trains. Works on signalling and sleeper replacement are underway. Upgrades to the Frankston line would also benefi t the Werribee line. He acknowledged the major issues with signalling and hoped to convey this to the Minister. State Member for Altona District, Jill Hennessy said the feedback from the community continues to tell the same story of poor connections, disruption and confusion bewildering, frustrating and rage-inducing commuters.

Ms Hennessy said focus has been given to the Melbourne Metro works, which would essentially double the size of the City Loop. Duplication of the Altona Loop has been scheduled for 20 years from now. With growth in the West continues at an astronomical pace and demand steps up, removing VLine trains from the equation was only part of the solution.“The Regional Rail is the fi rst opportunity to ensure improvement,” Ms Hennessy said. “We do not want Altona Loop bypassed any more.”Colleen Hartland, Greens MP for the Western Suburbs said Altona is home to the most dissatisfi ed commuters on the whole metropolitan network. The cost of a feasibility study for partial duplication of the line is $36,000 with the estimated cost of this duplication being between $10-12 billion. Having delivered numerous petitions, postcards and messages to Parliament on behalf of the community since 2011, Ms Hartland commended the community for its persistence.“I’ll continue to tell our politicians the West deserves the best,” Ms Harltand said to resounding applause.The trip home was an exercise of action speaking louder than words as I happened to be travelling in the same direction as State MP Andrew Elsbury. Our Werribee bound train was cancelled and the overhead announcement told us to catch a city bound train to Newport, then catch the next Werribee train from there. Our train took some time to get to Newport - in fact we suspected the train heading back to Werribee passed us shortly before our arrival. We then caught the next Werribee train only to fi nd it stopped at Altona anyway. Our trip from Altona to Werribee was an hour long journey.

Petronella Boonen

From page 1...

Issue 71 7

for all enquiries contact sharon connor 00419 545 626 or visit our website

ppilates studio - group classes - private sessions

pilates classes run 6 days a week!!

mmassage therapy - remedial massage - pregnancy massage - hot stone massage

and more…

llevel 1, shop 4 edwards arcade, altona 3018 book your massage or pilates session online

wwww.nuenergybodytherapy.com.au

Bruce Hargrave’s exhibition, All About Altona is a watercoloured celebration of the place we call home. If I could fi ll a coffee table book of all the great things about Altona, this exhibition would be it; the curiosity of school children on the beach, Market Day, long coastal stretches to wind down, to meditate, to play cricket and hip spots to fi nd good coffee. There’s even a painting of Louis Joel Arts and Community Centre.

We had the privilege to meet Bruce and his wife Suzie during our visit.

“The exhibition has attracted attention from not just from art interested people,” Suzie said. “People who haven’t been in a gallery before. Some people are coming in saying, ‘I know that place!’ It’s a delight.”

“The daughter of a visitor wanted to bring in some of her paintings ‘to show the artist’. She could see her own place in the pictures.

“Placed in a frame, [these images of home] suddenly become important.”

One gentleman approached Bruce to ask why the butterfl y he’d painted wasn’t an Altona Skipper butterfl y.

“When I told him I didn’t know there was an Altona butterfl y, he left and returned with a library book from across the road.”

During our chat, a teacher comes in to thank Bruce for the penny-farthing ride. I glance outside and realise the old style bike isn’t just decoration. You may remember Bruce’s previous exhibition at Louis Joel, Pics ‘n Spokes, where his love of all things bicycle shone through against a backdrop of the Hobsons Bay coast.

Bruce also plays guitar and the harmonica and writes poetry and songs. During our visit, he sang a few of his songs.

“I always write a New Year’s song,” he said.

As we left, Bruce followed us out playing ‘Danny Boy’ on the harmonica, much to the delight of our editor Dan. Bruce and Suzie Hargrave are from Mentone and came across Altona after a trip to Bruce’s bayside studio. Like many of us who weren’t born here, they immediately fell in love with the area and now it’s a fondness that is tangible in this exhibition. You can see more of Bruce’s work at his website, www.brucehargrave.com

If you could pinpoint ten spaces in Altona that mean something to you, what would they be?

Petronella Boonen

OUR HOME IN WATERCOLOUR

Issue 718

With 100 years of military aviation on display, it was not surprising that there was so much to see and do at The Centenary of Military Aviation 2014 Air Show on March 1st and 2nd. People came out in huge numbers to catch a glimpse of history, and to sneak a peak at the future of our proud Air force. Billed as a once in a lifetime event, it certainly lived up to expectations. With over three hours of continuous fl ying, the need to look up was matched only by the desire to block your ears. The power of the Super Hornets was impressive and left little doubt as to their capabilities. The sheer size of the C17 could not be fully appreciated, without taking a

step inside – the word ‘HUGE’ simply would not do it justice. And the historical BoxKite was out for all to admire, and marvel at the progressive advancements our Air force has made in the past century. Not to be forgotten, the Air force dogs were happy to put on a show. They wowed the crowd with their agility, aggression and obedience and were out to prove that the Air force does a lot more than just put planes up in the sky.A fantastic event was

put on with military precision, as you would expect. Completely worth the wait!

Melissa Longo

100 YEARS - WORTH THE WAIT

Issue 71 9

Garry Coleman has been offering family wellness based chiropractic care to the people of Point Cook and surrounds for the past fi ve years. Prior to this he was the principle chiropractor in his practice, Coleman Chiropractic, in the Gippsland township of Traralgon. After practising for nearly 30 years in the country the lure of two grandchildren brought he and wife Di to Point Cook where daughter Emmy and her husband Archie had settled in 2005.

Di also has a long history in chiropractic as she began working as a Chiropractic Assistant in 1975 and has been actively involved in the profession and the family practice ever since.

Emmy has also worked in the family practice back in Traralgon and also here in Point Cook. She has obviously grown up in the healthy chiropractic lifestyle as her children are now doing. Her husband, Melbourne Victory star Archie Thompson uses chiropractic care to tune his

body and maximise his physical performance as an elite athlete.

Coleman Chiropractic is now moving premises. Largely due to the ongoing referrals from our happy clients, we have grown very quickly from our humble beginnings 12 months ago. To allow for future growth and development we are still going to be working as Coleman Chiropractic but within a building to be known as Breakthrough Health. We will be located at Unit 31/22-30 Wallace Avenue, Point Cook and the planned start date is Monday March 31st. So for any visits from March 31st this year, you will fi nd us at the above address. Our phone number will still be the same 0499 974 824 so if there are any concerns or confusion please don’t hesitate to give us a call. Come visit and allow us to welcome you into our new ‘home’.

COLEMAN CHIROPRACTIC IS ON THE MOVE

Issue 7110

ArtAbility® is the fl agship art show of the not for profi t organisation, Action on Disability Within Ethnic Communities INC (ADEC).ADEC who have an offi ce in Werribee, assist the community by empowering persons with a disability from ethnically diverse backgrounds. By way of example ADEC recently ran some local Digital Respite courses in Wyndham, teaching students how to use social media. This provided respite for carers, taught students some excellent skills, and opened up another avenue in which students may interact with the community around them.What is ArtAbility®

ADEC have run the ArtAbility® program for the past nine years, with the ArtAbility® art show being the culmination of a year of art workshops and ongoing work by our artists. The end of year exhibition takes place at Federation Square in the fi rst two weeks of December. Over 100 artists normally exhibit over 200 works. During the duration of the show, the work is viewed by some 40,000 members of the public. This is a very positive experience for the artists and it is often the fi rst time they have participated in a community activity where their disabilities play no part in their interactions.We are seeking immediate sponsorship from local organisations or businesses to start providing the local workshops. This can be any assistance you think you can manage, every little bit does contribute to art materials,

hanging costs, frames, tutors and the like. Your assistance will be noted at the end of year event.If you are interested in participating in our ArtAbility® program, please get in touch so we can have a discussion and start the process running. If you would like to know more about this program or you are interested in fi nding out more about ADEC, please visit: www.adec.org.au or www.artability.org.au

Daniel AllenDaniel@adec.org.au

(03) 9480 1666

ARTABILITY ART SHOW - 10 YEAR ANNIVERSARY

Issue 71 11

Welcome to our monthly instalment of the “Magpies Nest”.The Laverton Magpies are excited to announce the appointment of Chris “Diesel” Smith as our new Senior Coach for season 2014.“ Diesel is an ex North Melbourne player who will bring a wealth of knowledge and know how to the club this season.Numbers are on the rise and everyone is looking forward to the fi rst round on April 5 against Caroline Springs.Training has now reverted back to Tuesdays & Thursday at 6pm. New players are welcome to come down and join our family friendly club. If interested in signing up for this season please feel free to

contact any of the people below.

Chris “Diesel” Smith (Senior Coach) 0425 716778John Ballestrino (Reserve Coach) 0409 138921Scott Mizzi (President) 0401 403728 Jake Ballestrino (Our Aus Kick coordinator) 0413 767325.Trainers Required – If anyone is interested in joining us as a trainer please contact Scott Mizzi on: 0401 403728

The club is looking forward to great year ahead and we look forward to bringing you future updates in the coming months.

Regards John

MAGPIES NESTLAVERTON MAGPIES FOOTBALL CLUB

Issue 7112

Notices

HOBSONS BAY LIFEACTIVITIES CLUB

ADAVIC ANXIETY & DEPRESSION SUPPORT

GROUP

COMMUNITY CAFÉ

SEABROOK COMMUNITY CENTRE

BRIDAL EXPO

ADVERTISING SALESREPRESENTATIVE

REQUIRED

HOBSONS BAY (ALTONA)

GARDEN CLUB INC.

WRITING WORKSHOP:

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 yourchoice, with no obligation, before you decide.For more information and a copy of our Club

Newsletter please contact:Alicia: 9741-4313

Connect 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:

adavic@adavic.org.au | visit: www.adavic.org.au

The Laverton Community Cafe operates from The Altona Meadows Community Centre 28 Trafalgar Avenue, Altona

Meadows.Why not come along and enjoy a

nutritional 3 course meal and at the same time meet someone new in your

Community. Operates:Every Friday 12.00 -1.00pm $8.00

/$5.00(Conc.)Bookings by Thursday essential

9369 4866

2014 is almost here...Interested 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 meetingsSee more information at www.

seabrookcc.com.au or phone the centre on 9932 3010

The Rotary Club of Hoppers Crossing is holding a Bridal Expo on 4th May 2014 at the Wyndham Civic

Centre to raise funds for Rotary’s work in the community. This affords an excellent

opportunity for local businesses to showcase their services to brides and grooms and family of brides and grooms. The Rotary Club

would like to hear from specialists in accommodation, beauty spas,

DJs, bridal wear, stationery, make-up, fresh fl ower bouquets, wedding

cakes, wedding venues, cars, jewelry, candy buffet, travel agents and

entertainers.If you would like to have a stand at

the Bridal Expo, please contact Terri Beirne on mobile 0402 842 567 or

email rchcbridalexpo@iinet.net.au.Find us on Facebook at

https://www.facebook.com/RotaryClubHoppersCrossing or on

the internet at www.hopperscrossingrotary.org.au.

You will already know if you are a fi t for this position, you will love sales (talking to people), you are a self starter (know what you are doing), you thrive on success (you

are good and you know it).Work local at times to suit you, it

does not get better that this.If you can sell yourself, you’ve got

the opportunity, just email your CV to will@aroundaltona.com.au

We invite you to join us. We meet on the third Monday of the month at 1pm. Located at the Youth Hall, corner of Civic Pde and Sugargum

Drive, Altona.We have great speakers, demonstrations and a trading table.

Enjoy a social afternoon tea with warm and friendly people. Any

inquires please ring Val on 9398 2002 or Bernice on 9314 2593

ALTONA NORTH COMBINED PROBUS

CLUB: Retired or semi-retired?

Interested in developing new friends, or interests. Join our

friendly group at the Community Hall, Cypress Av., Brooklyn

-10.00am on 3rd Wednesday of each month. Guest speakers, trips and other activities are

organised. Enquiries: Lois 9399 2554 or Pam 9314 4640

THE ALTONA FRUIT AND VEGIE SWAP Takes place on the second

Saturday of every month from 10:30am to 11:30am at the Rotunda in Logan Reserve

PierStreet, Altona.

Are you interested in writing about your own experiences

and memories? A writing workshop is held each

Wednesday at The Corner (Seniors Centre, Williamstown)

from 10 am to 12 midday, sponsored by Conversations for the Curious.

Cost is $5 per session. Contact Barry Mitchell

(mitchbj@westnet.com.au or 9397 7153)

for more information.

BIOGIGAre you interested in humanism; fl ora and fauna, natural food and

performing arts in a setting of education and entertainment. Enquiries: phone 9398 6043 or

email platypus111@bigpond.com

Issue 71 13

Altona Kids

Issue 7114

Altona Gardens

Buddleja davidii, a large deciduous bush from China and Japan, is the most popularly cultivated of its genus in Australia. Provided the gardener does not allow it to grow straggly, it is a pretty addition to a garden. The obvious bonus in growing this species is that its strong scent attracts butterfl ies.

One day, around twenty years ago, we noticed a small Buddleja davidii had self seeded in our back garden and, as I admire its elongated sprays of white, mauve or purple tubular fl owers, it was allowed to stay. I was interested to see what colour the fl owers would be, and was happy when they turned out to be a soft shade of mid-mauve, but Alex was disappointed the fl owers weren’t his preferred deep purple.

A few years ago, when I was invited to give a pencil drawing demonstration, I cut a piece to act as my model. However, it was not until I was invited to participate in an art exhibition

featuring weed species, that I discovered Buddleja davidii is regarded as an alien invader. Why? Admittedly our plant was a blow-in and we had, on two or three occasions over 40 plus years at our address, found other seedlings in our garden, so I couldn’t imagine why it was considered to be especially invasive. I read further and discovered it can grow almost anywhere, but it does prefer damp watercourses and creek lines where it quickly dominates and replaces native species.

I often see Australian Admirals and Australian Painted Ladies (the butterfl y in this painting) visiting our plant. The ubiquitous Cabbage White also visits, so it’s no wonder the common name is Butterfl y Bush.

Helene Wildhelene.wild@optusnet.com.au

BUTTERFLY BUSH (BUDDLEJA DAVIDII)

Issue 71 15

Last week I went along to the Altona Civic Obedience Dog Club (ACODC) expecting to fi nd half a dozen owners and their canines going through a ‘sit/stay’ routine in a corner of a park. Well, what a surprise!

I was greeted by the president, Bill Gilmour (a member for 37 years) and his wife and club secretary Allisa (a member for 26 years) of a well organised club that was established in 1968 no less! This friendly and enthusiastic couple proceeded to provide facts and fi gures about this canine club which is social as much as it is for instruction. Those fi rst ‘club rooms’ back then were a tent and then a caravan. Now there is are club rooms with an offi ce, spacious meeting room and kitchen facilities (free tea and coffee for members) built in 1984 with a third of the money to erect it being raised by club members.

Proudly displayed on every wall were photos of champion dogs produced by their owners and club instructors of which there are 14. The Chief Instructor, Joe Cimino, has been a member for 32 years now and put some of the 350 members of the club and their dogs through their paces whilst I was there. This length of association gives a pretty good indication of the passion these folk have for seeing owners get the best possible out of owning a dog. Apparently you CAN teach an old dog new tricks! As long as your dog is a minimum 18 weeks and up to date with vaccinations you are invited to come along to the fi rst step in the membership process which is an hour long

Induction taken by Bill and held the fi rst and third Sunday of each month.

Club meets are 46 weeks of the year on Sunday, Tuesday and Wednesday rain or hail, however if the ‘shine’ is more than 30C then club days are cancelled so as not to cause undue heat stress for the dogs. Depending on the individual time and effort dogs can progress from Beginners, then from Grade1- 6 which is heading to competition level. There are classes which offer such things as Agility, Rally-O and Flyball for those wanting to advance their dog handling skills and information about these are on the website.

What Bill and Allisa explained to me was they fi nd that most people simply want to train their dogs to be sociable and well-mannered. Bill said that he ‘trains’ the owner who is then in a better position to in turn train their dog. So even if you feel that your dog is a little too boisterous (to put it kindly) or maybe you’re tired of having your shoulder almost dislocated taking your dog out for a ‘drag’ rather than a walk you are encouraged to come along to the club.

Membership fees are a low $55 per fi nancial year for a single. Details on where to fi nd the club, or further information can be found on the ACODC website at altonadogobedience.org.au.

And one other thing: Don’t wear a white skirt! What was I thinking?!!

Deborah Drew

CLASSES FOR YOUR CANINE AND YOU

Issue 7116

Funding has been provided from the Hobsons Bay Community Grants Program for Year 10 students at Laverton College to take a course to learn to sail.The sailing program is being held at the Royal Yacht Club of Victoria in Williamstown.(RYCV)During the 6 week course in Term 1 students will be able to rig and de-rig their Pacer dinghies. Sail a short course

and bring their boats back to shore. The weather has been perfect for the capsize exercise and the man overboard recovery drill.

Sailing lessons are available to the public by contacting Ian Fox RYCV - training@rycv.asn.au or ph: 9397 1277. Just mention this article.

PIRATES APPRENTICES

Issue 71 17

Despite weather conditions being less than kind, 3500 people turned out to hear the sweet sounds of some of Australian music’s fi nest, at Wyndham City’s Live on the Lawn, on March 16th. Werribee Mansion was transformed into a giant picnic, with patrons encouraged to make themselves at home on the freshly mowed lawns. Passerine and Claire Bowditch got the crowd warmed up, before Josh Pyke, Pete Murray and Bernard Fanning took to the stage, encouraging audiences out of their deck chairs. Murray put on quite the show, singing a crowd-

pleasing set, tapping into a decades’ worth of hits. People rewarded him and his band with a standing ovation.

Fantastic food vendors provided a variety of tasty treats and The Park Hotel set up an onsite bar. Werribee Mansion always provides such a beautiful backdrop, rain, hail or shine. With last month’s Fromage a Trois, Wyndham really is staking its claim as the place to be for major events.

Melissa Longo

LIVE ON THE LAWN

Issue 7118

THE PLAYFUL AND VERSATILE DOG:

WHEATEN TERRIERPet Section

Like most terriers, the Wheaten terriers, or simply called as Wheatens, were originally bred as hunters. Therefore, their physique naturally evolved as strong and healthy. Their hunting instincts have made them agile and alert as most terriers are. However, this breed is more stable and steady as compared to most terriers as they were used as by Irish farmers as all-purpose dogs.

Among the activities that moulded their instincts and physical features were herding cattle and sheep, vermin

terminators, hunting both in water and on land, and serving as watch dogs that deterred trespassers.

The following are some of the basic facts about Wheatens:

Living Environment: Indoors (highly recommended); outdoors (fenced yard) Coat: single coat, medium length, silky and soft, wavy Colors: born to have black coats but at the age of two, their coats lighten to achieve the color of wheat grains.

Size: 17 - 20 inches (height) ; 30 - 45 pounds (weight)

Temperament: Naturally, they rarely bark especially when it is unnecessary to do so. They refl ect the moods of their household or those around them immediately. Their type requires a great deal of commitment and effort in training them so they should not be given to novice breeders and/or owners.

If trained properly, they are generally happy and friendly. They are also easy-going, confi dent, and deeply dedicated to their family’s security. They can get along well with older children and other animals that have been raised with them or are living within the same household.

Breeders should note some of the health issues such as fl ea allergies, Addison’s disease, heat stroke, PLN and PLE.

Care and Exercise: Wheatens require daily combing to prevent their wavy and thick coat from tangling.They should undergo trimming by professionals at least four times each year. Dry shampooing or even bathing should be done only when it is necessary. Eyes and ears should be checked and cleaned on a regular basis. They should be brought along with family activities such as play sessions, hiking, picnic, and even walking.

Origin/History: From Ireland, Wheatens were brought to a number of countries in the year 1946. Slowly they gained popularity as pets and as entertainers. However, the extraordinary appeal of this breed to the Americans in particular would not be possible if Patrick Blake had not saved its lineage from extinction in1932. They were registered by the American Kennel Club in1973.

For breeders, why not appoint them as well as your pet especially when you are looking for a playful yet reliable companion and guard dog? To this effect, you can say that what you own is one heck of a dog — a dog that can work and play as well!

Anmonymouse

Issue 71 19

Weerama 2014 had it all - a fun-fi lled parade showcasing Wyndham’s many community groups and clubs, entertainment from local talent, loads of activities for every age and stage and stalls along Watton Street displaying everything from animal rescue to BMX bike riding.

It was brilliant for those of us who live here, but even more impressive for visitors getting a snapshot of the Wyndham community.

Margaret visiting from Narooma NSW was taken by the spirit of the area.

“This is great for newcomers to see what’s available in the community,” she said.

Mahamed and children Nesiu, Bilal and Nagti came here from Ethiopia in 2010. They came to Australia for its peaceful politics and a better life.

Ian and Marion of Mazza’s Fudge say they ordered the perfect weather of the day; a high priority given the couple moved here from New Zealand after the earthquakes shattered their hometown, Christchurch.

Amongst the stall holders were Nic and Amber of Animals on the Move who brought their ‘bush babies’ to visit. Among them was a tawny frogmouth, a wallaby and a Gang Gang cockatoo.There was plenty of conversation at this stall and Nic was pleased that our community seemed to know a lot about our local wildlife. How do you describe a wombat? It’s completely unique to Australia. Africa has some animals that look a bit similar. Getting up close to a baby croc, you can see it is a pre-historic reptile.

“Teaching people about what we have is really important,” Nic said.

“It’s good to see councils are starting to think again – we see more wildlife in our residential areas now because they have nowhere else to go.

“We can’t help that we have to expand but we have to look after the animals in our backyard.”

Overall, Weerama was as its name suggests, a great day ‘to play’.

Petronella Boonen

WEERAMA 2014 – A GREAT PLAY DATE

Issue 7120

In Brief

• HOBSONS BAY (ALTONA) GARDEN CLUB INC. – We invite you to join us.....

We meet on the third Monday of the month at 1pm. at the Youth Hall, corner of Civic Pde and Sugargum Drive, Altona.We have great speakers-- demonstrations-- a trading table--afternoon tea and enjoy a social afternoon.Any inquires ring Val 93982002 or Bernice 93142593 (no meeting in April as it falls on Easter Monday)

• WRITING WORKSHOP: – Are you interested in writing about your own experiences and memories? A writing workshop is held each Wednesday at The Corner (Seniors Centre, Williamstown) from 10 am to 12 midday, sponsored by Conversations for the Curious. Cost is $5 per session. Contact Barry Mitchell (mitchbj@westnet.com.au or 9397 7153) for more information.

• HOBSONS BAY ART SOCIETY INC

1) Get Arty (as part of AIPP) at Truganina Explosives Reserve, Queen Street, Altona (opposite Kooringal Golf Club) on 5th & 6th April from 10.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m. This will include, Art Demos, wire sculpting, silk painting and children’s activities. Sausage sizzle and more. Everyone welcome.

2) Autumn Exhibition (part of AIPP), 4th - 13th April, the theme “Dream Destinations” whereby members of the society depict and paint their favourite destination. The exhibition is being held at the Louis Joel Arts & Community Centre, 5 Sargood Street, Altona.

• DO YOU PLAY THE FLUTE? The Hobsons Bay City Band is seeking new members to the Band. Rehearsals are held every Monday evening 7.30pm at the Newport Lakes Primary School, Elizabeth Street, Newport. Melway Pg 55 J3. Contact Lesley on 0403 851 076 or email hbcb@bigpond.com or check URL www.hbcb.org.au Visitors and interested musicians any age most welcome..

Issue 71 21

Jokes

Quotes

As a new bride, Aunt Edna moved into the small home on her husband’s ranch near Snowfl ake. She put a shoe box on a shelf in her closet and asked her husband never to touch it. For 50 years Uncle Jack left the box alone, until Aunt Edna was old and dying. One day when he was putting their affairs in order, he found the box again and thought it might hold something important. Opening it, he found two doilies and $82,500 in cash. He took the box to her and asked about the contents. “My mother gave me that box the day we married,” she explained. “She told me to make a doily to help ease my frustrations every time I got mad at you.” Uncle Jack was very touched that in 50 years she’d only been mad at him twice. “What’s the $82,500 for?” he asked. “Oh, well that’s the money I’ve made selling the doilies.”

Believe in yourself! Have faith in your abilities! Without a humble but reasonable confi dence in your own powers you cannot be successful or happy.

Norman Vincent Peale

I don’t believe you have to be better than everybody else. I believe you have to be better than you ever thought you could be.

Ken Venturi

You have to learn the rules of the game. And then you have to play better than anyone else.

Albert Einstein

Always continue the climb. It is possible for you to do whatever you choose, if you fi rst get to know who you are and are willing to work with a power that is greater than ourselves to do it.

Ella Wheeler Wilcox

I know where I’m going and I know the truth, and I don’t have to be what you want me to be. I’m free to be what I want.

Muhammad Ali

By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.

Benjamin Franklin

Two college basketball players were taking an important fi nal exam. If they failed, they would be on academic probation and not allowed to play in the big game the following week. The exam was fi ll-in-the-blank. The last question read, “Old MacDonald had a ________.” Bubba was stumped. He had no idea what to answer. But he knew he needed to get this one right to be sure he passed. Making sure the professor wasn’t watching, he tapped Tiny on the shoulder. “Pssst. Tiny. What’s the answer to the last question?” Tiny laughed. He looked around to make sure the professor hadn’t noticed then he turned to Bubba. “Bubba, you’re so stupid. Everyone knows Old MacDonald had a FARM.” “Oh yeah,” said Bubba. “I remember now.” He picked up his No. 2 pencil and started to write the answer in the blank. He stopped. Tapping Tiny’s shoulder again, he whispered, “Tiny, how do you spell farm?” “You are really dumb, Bubba. That’s so easy. Farm is spelled E-I-E-I-O.”

TWO DOILIES TAKING THE FINAL EXAM

Issue 7122

When I was a very young lad,

I knew nothing about the law;

So I’d sometimes do something bad;

Then my dad would give me “whatfor”.

Now it may seem to you absurd

That because it was chastisement,

I used to think “whatfor” was one word:

To me, a hiding was what it meant.

‘Twas later I learned that in fact

“What for?” is a phrase, a question:

Rather than being cruelly whacked,

It’s a key to knowledge expansion.

It was poet Rudyard Kipling

Who named the “six honest serving men”

Who could teach a man everything:

They are How, What, Why, Who, Where and When.

“What for?” is a way of saying “Why?”,

The most important of the Six.

I’ll keep asking that till I die,

Seeking answers life’s problems to fi x.

For all things there’s a reason:

That’s what science and history’s about.

The art of interrogation

Is the pathway to clearing up doubt.

Jack Nystrom, 19.3.2014

WHAT FOR

Issue 71 23

ALTONA BEACH PHOTOGRAPHY

Advertise your business here..call

Will on 0449 834 359

DO YOU SUFFER FROM REFLUX?IMMUNE SYSTEM NEED BOOSTING?

Mangosteen Juice can help you!

Ph: 8360 8434 or 0425 772 501www.mmxgo.com/r2c to view a video

www.unaferguson.mymangosteen.com

BLUE FIRE BELLYDANCEBeginner to

Intermediate Classes in Newport. Great for all age, size & fi tness levels.

Call Nicole on 0430 595 702www.bluefi rebellydance.com.au

C.F.S. PEST CONTROL C.F.S. PEST CONTROL

FOR ALL YOUR FOR ALL YOUR

PEST CONTROL NEEDS.PEST CONTROL NEEDS.

RESIDENTIAL, INDUSTRIAL, COMMERCIALPH: 1300 819 761

EMAIL: office@fumigationservices.com.au

Cartridge worldNEW AND REFILLED INK AND

LASER CARTRIDGESSHOP 11 HARRINGTON SQUARE, MAIDSTONE ST, ALTONA 3018

PH.9398 5200 FAX.9398 5211

Your stories and photos are what

keep the Around Altona conversation

going. Local club news is also

welcome.

Send your stories, articles and

letters to editor@aroundaltona.

com.au or drop them off at

the Louis Joel Arts and Community

Centre in Sargood Street.

ACCESS CONSCIOUSNESS The Bars™Relax Your Body, Soothe Your Mind

Renew Your VitalityThe Bars are a simple, effective, non-invasive energy process that may

assist you in many areas of your life including sleep, mind chatter, money, relationships, anxiety, stress and so much more!

Phone Lucy on 0428 559 675All of life comes to me with ease, joy and glory!TM

Services at Your Doorstep

BOBCAT and TIPPER HIRELimited access

Servicing the Western Suburbs

Call Vic on 0418 320 535

Issue 7124

0408 659 940 or aroundsell@gmail.com