Around Altona 80

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Distributed throughout Altona with distribution points in Altona North, Seaholme, Altona Meadows and Williamstown

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ISSUE 80, FEBRUARY 2015

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

BOUGAINVILLEABOUGAINVILLEA SPECTABILIS

INTO THE WOODS

PAGE 7 PAGE 14 PAGE 16

MYSTERY AT ALTONA HOMESTEAD MUSEUM

On the 22 December I attended the Altona Life Savers Sunday Morning NIPPERS Session. It was a beautiful day, sunny blue sky and Altona Beach looked an absolute treat. There were approximately 150 of the 260 enrolled “ nippers” on the beach for their regular weekly Life saving sessions. If all this wasn’t impressive enough, there were nearly as many parents there too, watching their kids train. Congratulations too, to their Clubs president Steven Schofi eld who, on the day had everyone’s attention as he went through the morning’s program, with safety obviously a high priority. It was a special day for me too, as I was there representing the Altona Sports Club who have been a GOLD sponsor of the Altona Life Savers for many years, and we were taking a picture for our own Club’s Community Notice Board.Altona Life Saving Club has a very long and proud heritage in Altona, check out the pictures hanging in their Clubrooms, due in no small part to “The Beach” being a signifi cant part of Altona’s Charm. In my memory this has always been the case and I suspect always will be.

We’ve had Shark Sightings, with bathers being told to get out of the water. We’ve had Surfers, yes in the 60’s local surfers would ride the waves on the Eastern side of the Pier. During this time the Life Savers have been there looking after us. I remember attending dances in their original Club Rooms in the 60’s and I’m sure many of those surfers were there too. I remember their kiosk in front of the rooms with the BIG PETERS Ice Cream sign. Times change, the beach has changed, for the better, and the Life Savers have moved into a better building with their pavilion across the road, on the beach. The Beach is synonymous with Altona and so are the Life Savers in their Red and Gold caps. For me Altona will always be one of the better places on Port Phillip Bay and we need our Life Savers to be there with us. We should all be grateful for these volunteers who train to be Life savers and give of their time to protect the community. Look at the picture, I think you’ll agree we are in safe hands, now and in the future!

John Dawson

NIPPERS ON SAND

Issue 802

RAMBLING WITH THE EDITOR

PUDDLING WITH THE PUBLISHER

Recently our paper carried an advertisement for ‘Jack’s Book of Poems’ being Volume 1 containing 270 of our resident Poet, Jack Nystrom, covering part of more than 1000 poems that Jack has written over the last few years.Within a couple of days of publication of the advertisement our Editor received an email from Owen Hyde at the Laverton and Altona Historical Society inviting Jack and his book to be part of a Book Sale by Local area Authors for the Australia Day Festivities at Logan Reserve in Altona, an event usually attended by thousands, depending on the weather.

Without doubt some of Jack’s books will be sold.

More important it’s hard to trace the origin of where a sale

actually comes from and this time Owen Hyde referred to the item he read in the paper and offered the opportunity to be presented on the day.

If you were around on Australia Day maybe you saw Jack signing his book for in the Homestead Museum in the Logan Reserve thanks to Owen Hyde, the Historical Society, and the Local Paper.

So ask yourself the question, Does Local Marketing work? and yes, you can still have the book.

Bill McPherson

[email protected]

My choice of subject today is to explain why I work on this paper.

I met Bill (our publisher) some eight years ago now and he was clearly a man of vision. He wanted to establish a community paper. I had at the time, very particular feelings (not very positive) about the quality of (mainstream) so-called community papers during that time period. We often got ridiculous stories totally unrelated to our community locations and written by people in Tullamarine or who knows where else? They were not very locally focused.

I was taken by the thought of assisting in building a paper that was very locally focused and enjoyable to read. A paper that was not full of negative stories page after page. I provided information about how Bill could use technology to get our fi rst community newspaper up and running. In his determination to see the paper started, he was often using sticky tape to place stories on white paper, that would then be photocopied to make a Master, which he would then use to print from on a Risograph, resulting in something of the poorest visual quality imaginable. But hey it looked local! I stepped in and showed him the joys of computers… More fool me. I do not regret it.My support has been varied over the years, ranging from activities such as designing the layout, graphic design, writing articles, photography, advertising and a good amount of editing.

Whilst the historical issues of Around Altona, stand testimony to our somewhat rough start, our most recent issues of Around Hoppers Crossing and Around Point Cook are testimony to just how far we have progressed in providing something enjoyable, local and relevant in our local communities.

Feedback from readers indicates it has all been worth it.

I think you should support this effort. Local volunteer writers, focusing on local stories are needed. We also need advertisers. You can obtain pricing information by emailing: [email protected]

Have a great month.

Don’t forget the Annual Altona Beach Festival on the 22nd of February where at Apex Park the Hobsons Bay Mens Shed is again holding its popular gigantic Car and Bike show this time coupled with their Car Boot sale and Swap meet, One of the features this year on display is a fully restored from the ground Morris Minor recently fi nished by Shed Members. This is the model loved by thousands of proud owners and was particularly used by thousands of proud lady owners. Fortunately I lived through the era. Hope to see you there.

RegardsDaniel Allen

0408 659 940 or [email protected]

Issue 80 3

TO ADVERTISE IN AROUND ALTONA

COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERContact

Will - M: 0449 834 359 E: [email protected]

Daniel - M: 0408 659 940 E: [email protected]

Two residents have been recognised by Hobsons Bay City Council, for their outstanding contributions to Hobsons Bay.

The winners, selected by a panel including the 2014 Citizens and Young Citizen of the Year, were presented with their awards at the Australia Day Citizenship Ceremony.The 2015 Citizen of the Year Award was presented to Geoffrey William Mitchelmore OAM.

The Mayor of Hobsons Bay Councillor Colleen Gates said Mr Mitchelmore has spent most of his life advocating for worthy causes or helping people in the community.

“Geoff has been an active member of our community over nearly 50 years and has been heavily involved in arts and culture, community services and the local environment during this time,” said Cr Gates.

“He’s been involved with the Altona City Theatre for 20 years, has served as a member of the Altona North High School Council for 13 years, he has been the driving force behind Friends of Lower Kororoit Creek and in more recent years he’s been an active member of the Brooklyn Residents Action Group.

“The range of activities Geoff has been involved in over many years, shows his commitment, determination and passion for both the community and the natural environment.

“Geoff has had many awards and accolades over the years and it is a pleasure to recognise him as our Citizen of the Year for the service given to the Hobsons Bay community over nearly 50 years.

“Geoff is a truly worthy recipient and a true champion of our community.”

The 2015 Young Citizen of the Year Award was presented to Hue Man Dang. Hue Man attends Bayside P-12 College

and has already received several awards for her leadership and dedication to making a difference in our community.Cr Gates said Hue Man is an impressive young woman and a future leader, both in terms of her commitment to her studies and her willingness to be involved in community activities.

“At only 17 years of age, Hue has already received the Deakin University Aspiration Award, is a recipient of the Melbourne University Kwong Lee Dow Scholarship Program which acknowledges academic success and leadership and has also been successful in gaining a Western Chances Scholarship,” said Cr Gates.“She is an active member of her school’s Student Representative Council, has been proactive in the organisation of fundraisers, events and celebration and her strong sense of social justice has encouraged the introduction of community and international charities as the recipients of Student Representative Council’s fundraising.

“She is a leader of the future and is a credit to her family, her friends and Bayside College.

“The standout quality of Hue is her ability to at such a young age balance her studies and fi nd the time to involve herself so selfl essly to bettering our community.”

The Citizenship Ceremony followed a breakfast jointly hosted by the Altona Lions Club and Hobsons Bay City Council, and featured an address from Australia Day Ambassador songwriter Greg Champion.

“Congratulations to both our Citizen and Young Citizen of the Year. On behalf of the Councillors and the wider Hobsons Bay community, I say thank you for your service to our community,” said Cr Gates.

TOP HONOUR FOR OUR CITIZENS

Issue 804

John Alcock was born in Werribee in 1871, one of 9 children born to John and Susan Alcock. When he enlisted in 1915 he was working as a labourer, and at 43 years old, would have been one of the older recruits, at a time when the average age of new recruits was 29.

After receiving a few months training at Broadmeadows, John embarked aboard His Majesty’s Australian transport ship Anchises, and after a brief stop in Egypt, he joined the 21st battalion at Gallipoli. It was a relatively quiet time at Gallipoli when John arrived, with the battalion diary recording shelling and sniping on a daily basis, but few casualties. The most interesting thing recorded was that two messages written in Turkish were thrown from the Australian trenches into the Turkish trenches. Apart from demonstrating how close the trenches must have been, it starts one wondering what exactly the messages said.

In late December John took part in the famous evacuation of Gallipoli, along with the rest of the battalion, going fi rstly to the island of Mudros, and then on to Alexandria.

John arrived in France in late March 1916, and the following month the 21st battalion became the fi rst Australian battalion to commence active operations on the western front. On the 23rd of July the battalion took part in operations around Pozieres, fi rstly as a carrying party and then moving into front line trenches. The entry in the battalion war diary for the 29th July 1916 says- “Moved 2 companies to front trenches north of Pozieres, 1 company in trenches at Chalk pit, and 1 in trenches near regimental aid post. Enemy artillery very active.”

The enemy artillery mentioned above wounded John, infl icting shell wounds to his scalp, back and leg. He was evacuated to the 44th Casualty Clearing Station, where 11 days later he died of his wounds. He was buried in the Purchvillers Military cemetery.

It took 10 months for his meagre possessions to be returned to his

mother, including his damaged watch, a diary and his bible.

Greg Milne

FINDING OUR ANZACS - JOHN ALCOCK

Issue 80 5

Are you a textile artist? Are you creative with your crochet or knitting? Do you design and make your own clothing, whether new, recycled or re-vamped? Do you design and make jewellery, shoes, millinery, corsets and scarves? If so, It’s Art Wear It wants you.

Born in 2006 as an exhibition of wearable art and jewellery made by local artists and crafters, It’s Art Wear It has become a unique and popular fashion event on Altona’s Louis Joel Arts and Community Centre’s art calendar. The event is launched with a fashion parade and is followed by a week-long exhibition. With an ethos fi rmly anchored in celebrating difference and inclusion, the Fashion Parade has called upon the services of models from various walks of life, including models from the Fire Brigade, music-playing models and, last year, models from two local disability groups, David House and Mambourin Altona. The involvement of these models last year made for an emotional and fun-fi lled event that proudly shone the light on a segment of our community that is often ignored.

The 2015 event continues this tradition of difference and inclusion and will showcase models in their senior years. This year’s theme is ‘Winter Lights’. Organisers are calling for local artists, crafters, designers to exhibit their work in this inimitable show. The Exhibition will take place at the Louis Joel Centre (5 Sargood Street, Altona 3018) between 11 and 22 July, with the Fashion Parade kicking off the festivities on the evening of Friday 10 July. If you

would like to participate in this year’s event, contact the Centre by phone on (03) 9398 2511 (ask for Kim, Robert or Kerin) or by email ([email protected]) to receive an ‘expression of interest’ form. For further information and to see photos from previous shows, visit www.louisjlcc.com.au or fi nd us on Facebook.

Fabienne Chevalier

CALLING ALL ARTISTS, CRAFTERS AND DESIGNERS FOR A SHOW WITH A DIFFERENCE

Issue 806

Issue 80 7

Can you help to identify the mystery object in this picture? If so, the Altona Laverton Historical Society would like to hear from you.

This mystery object was found on the local property of members of the Historical Society. It is a metal stake, approximately 590mm long, with a space for something to be threaded through a hole at the top. The Society has no further information about the stake, which can be examined at the Altona Homestead Museum. The Society welcomes all suggestions on what it actually might be and what it might be used for. If you think you can help to identify this mystery stake or have any queries, visit the museum on Tuesdays 11am to 2pm, fi rst Sunday of the month 11am to 4pm, other weekends Saturdays 10am to 12 noon,

or contact the Society on 0447 840 895 or [email protected] museum is located at 128 Queen Street in Altona (opposite the Altona Library), in the original Laverton Homestead, the oldest homestead built on the foreshore of Port Phillip. The Society welcomes the involvement of the community who can view the collection, pass on stories, assist with the identifi cation of objects and research the history of our community.

For more information about the Altona Laverton Historical Society, the Museum and events such as Devonshire Teas in the Courtyard (with the next one scheduled on Sunday 1 March, 11am to 4pm), visit www.alhs.com.au.

Fabienne Chevalier

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MYSTERY AT ALTONA HOMESTEAD MUSEUM

Issue 808

BIG HERO 6 Film ReviewBig Hero 6 is defi nitely a triumph for Disney on all fronts. In terms of animation, the latest installation in the Walt Disney Classics series is far from disappointing. Many of the elements in the fi lm, primarily the vibrant setting, and the anime-like features which are in accordance to its Marvel Comic book origins, are bound to captivate audiences of all ages. Similarly, the storyline is equally as impressive, as it takes viewers through a journey, beginning in the futuristic

city of San Fransokyo. Here, child prodigy 14- year-old Hiro Hamada is introduced as a boy with a brilliant talent in the fi eld of robotics. The fi lm predominately centers on how he copes with a devastating tragedy which brings his

life to a standstill. In one of Hiro’s darkest hours, Baymax, an utterly adorable, 10 ft-tall health robot, manages to infl ate – literally - into his life. This robot, which was designed with the purpose to heal, does just that, and is able to show Hiro how to laugh, live and love once again. Their friendship is bound to capture hearts, along with muster laughs as both characters grow and develop a signifi cant bond. Together, along with other fun, lovable characters, such as Go Go Tomago, Wasabi, Honey Lemon and Fred, they form a group of unlikely superheroes who are able to use their intellect and imaginations to create an avenue to help others and save their city in times of danger.

Throughout Baymax and Hiro’s journey, the fi lm explores how the imagination, teamed with technology, can create endless positive change. But beneath the shiny super-hero front, this is a fi lm which includes an uplifting message about generosity, compassion and helping those around us for the greater good of humanity. Unlike many animated fi lms, it often discusses diffi cult themes such as loss and grief, but also signifi cant positive ones, such as friendship and love, and these aspects give it a refreshing sense of reality which certainly makes it a memorable fi lm that will be cherished for years to come.

By Devika Nair

Issue 80 9

Attention Local Business Owners

Could you attract more business with a Mobile App?

The answer is most probably YES

So why aren’t you doing it?

We know, the answer is cost !!

What if there was a way to have an APP that allowed you to interact with your clients where we pickup all development costs, all the design costs and all the costs associated with getting the APP into production, would you be interested?

Well, that is actually what we can offer you

We are in the process of creating an APP to promote local businesses in Altona and we need a small number of businesses just like yours to join us and add their details to the business listing section and a special offer to the “Featured Business” section as part of the launching phase.

Once we have the initial group, Fred Gillen will create the APP and make it available on the APP store for FREE download.

If you would like to be one of the businesses featured in our new APP then call me straight away on (03) 8678 0657 and I will explain exactly how it works.

Look froward to chatting with you soon.

Fred GillenMore Marketing Ideas.

Attention Local Business Owners

Could you attract more business with a Mobile App?

The answer is most probably YES

So why aren’t you doing it?

We know, the answer is cost !!

What if there was a way to have an APP that allowed you to interact with your clients where we pickup all development costs, all the design costs and all the costs associated with getting the APP into production, would you be interested?

Well, that is actually what we can offer you

We are in the process of creating an APP to promote local businesses in Altona and we need a small number of businesses just like yours to join us and add their details to the business listing section and a special offer to the“Featured Business” section as part of the launching phase.

Once we have the initial group, Fred Gillen will create the APP and make it available on the APP store for FREE download.

If you would like to be one of the businesses featured in our new APP thencall me straight away on (03) 8678 0657 and I will explain exactly how it works.

Look froward to chatting with you soon.

Fred GillenMore Marketing Ideas.

Issue 8010

Shedding a few kilos and getting fi t are popular New Year’s resolutions, but along with improving your health why not resolve to boost your wealth in 2015? The best way to do that is to have a clear picture about what you want to achieve. Perhaps you want to buy a new car, save a deposit for your fi rst home, prepare for the birth of a child or go on an overseas adventure? Make sure your list contains some fun short-term goals as well as some that will set you up for the future.

Prioritise your goals

Whatever your goals, write them down in the order of priority and put a dollar fi gure on them. The more concrete you can make your goals the better. Then it is a matter of working out where you want to be by the end of the year.

Prepare a budget

More often than not, the difference between a goal and a pipedream is a budget. Start by adding up your annual income from work, investments and government allowances. Then deduct your annual expenses including mortgage or rent, insurances, transport, phone, utilities, clothes, entertainment, groceries and daily expenses. Any amount you are left with is the seed that will grow your future wealth. However, if you discover you are spending more than you earn then go through your budget item by item to see where you can cut back.

Plan to save

The old advice to ‘pay yourself fi rst’ is still the easiest way to discipline yourself to save. Set up a weekly or monthly direct debit to divert some of your salary into a savings account before you have a chance to spend it. Consider a high interest savings account for short-term savings or, if you have a home loan with a redraw facility, you could park the cash there and reduce your debt at the same time.

Don’t forget retirement

When you’re planning how to get ahead this year, don’t forget the big picture. A small amount put aside each week could make a big difference to your retirement lifestyle if you start saving early. The longer you procrastinate, the more you will need to save later on. Consider making a voluntary non-concessional contribution to your superannuation or salary sacrifi ce pre-tax income to make a concessional contribution. Just be careful to stay within your age-based annual contribution limits

Go for growth

When you are saving for longer-term goals such as a child’s education or your retirement, you need to ensure that your savings are not eaten away by infl ation. That

means putting some of your money in growth assets such as shares and property which produce the best returns in the long run.

When you are saving for retirement, super is the most tax-effective investment vehicle. But just because super is a long-term investment doesn’t mean you can afford to set and forget.

Share your goals

Just as it’s often easier to achieve your fi tness goals with support from an exercise buddy or personal trainer, why not try growing your wealth with a little help from your friends.

Even the simple act of talking about your goals with a trusted friend or adviser makes success more likely.

Call Vostro Private Wealth on 9867 4345 if you would like to discuss the best way to achieve your New Year’s resolutions

General Advice Warning: This advice may not be suitable to you because it contains general advice that has not been tailored to your personal circumstances. Please seek personal fi nancial advice prior to acting on this information

RESOLUTIONS FOR A WEALTHY FUTURE

Issue 80 11

Issue 8012

Notices

ALTONA MEADOWS /LAVERTON UNITING

CHURCH

ADAVIC ANXIETY & DEPRESSION SUP-

PORT GROUP

ADVERTISING SALES

REPRESENTATIVE REQUIRED

COMMUNITY CAFÉ WEEKLY

HOBSONS BAY (ALTONA)

GARDEN CLUB INC.

You are welcome to join us any Sunday at 10am and some

Sundays at 5.30pm (Night Owl service).

We worship in a circle and have groups for children during

part of the service. Our Fijian congregation has amalgamated

with us this year.We also have Bible study groups,

discussion groups, kids club, playgroup, etc

Contact Rev. Susan Malthouse on 9369 0384

Enquiries concerning the use of our building to Lauris on

0409 354 932

61 CENTRAL AVENUE, ALTONA MEADOWS.

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 Members

For more info phone: (03) 9853-8089 | email: [email protected] |

visit: www.adavic.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 [email protected]

Laverton Community Centre (the Hub) 95-105Railway Ave

Laverton

Every Wednesday, 12noon-1pm Altona

Meadows Community Centre 28 Trafalgar Avenue, Altona

Meadows

Every Friday, 12noon-1pm 3 course meal, both days cost:

$8/$5 (conc)

Bookings essential by Monday/ Thursday Phone:8368 0177

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.

Issue 80 13

Altona Kids

Hi KidsLook at this fantastic artwork by some of the kids who attend classes at Sandra’s Art in Motion. Young artist s learn how to draw us-ing traditional techniques like shapes and tones. These mixed with imagination and getting messy makes for lot s of fun, Sandra reckons. The watercolour entitled, Waterfall, won the first Art in Motion people’s choice award at the Christmas Exhibition Party. Other great work exhibited in the 5-12 years category included an ink & wax by Ben and Amelie’s pastel of Bear. In the 3-5 years category, Blake’s acrylic & charcoal work was a standout piece. Although, it’s true to say all the work was equally excellent. PS: Keep an eye out for the March Kids Page as we’ll be calling all young writers for our first ever Young Writers Competition!

KJ RajahWATERFALL BY MADDISON, (10YRS)

CAT BY BLAKE, (4YRS)

BEAR BY AMELIE, (6YRS)

RUINS BY BEN, (11YRS)

Issue 8014

Altona Gardens

Bougainvillea, a genus of fl owering plants, is native to South America - from Brazil west to Peru and south to southern Argentina.

They are thorny, woody vines growing anywhere from one to twelve metres in height and scrambling over other plants with their hooked thorns that are tipped with a waxy black substance. Where rainfall occurs all year, bougainvilleas are evergreen, but they are deciduous if there is a pronounced dry season.

When I conjure up images of Bougainvillea, I immediately think of a brilliantly coloured bloom. However, the actual fl ower is small and generally white, but each cluster of three fl owers is surrounded by three to six brilliantly coloured bracts. These days, there are many Bougainvillea spectabilis cultivars on the market, with pink, magenta, purple, red, orange, white

or yellow bracts, and even some varieties whose bracts are in pastel ice-cream shades.

Some years ago, when I was painting the images for my Favourite Flowers calendar, I was keen to include at least one purple fl ower. I had seen several Bougainvillea spectabilis plants in front gardens on my way to visit my parents and hoped, one day, to see an owner working in one of those gardens, in which case I would stop and request a small piece. Unfortunately, this never happened then, on the occasion I decided to take a different route home, I spotted the most spectacular purple Bougainvillea cascading luxuriantly over a back fence and trailing onto the verges of a railway line. I am sure the owner never noticed a small piece went missing.

Helene [email protected]

BOUGAINVILLEABOUGAINVILLEA SPECTABILIS

Issue 80 15

In Brief

• COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT CONSULTATION – Hobsons Bay City Council is reviewing the way it engages with the community.We want to make sure that you have the opportunity to have a say on the things that are important in a meaningful, effective and consistent way.Council is encouraging all residents to complete a short survey on how Council can improve engagement.The survey is available at http://participate.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/engagement or you can pick up a copy at the Hobsons Bay Civic Centre or any of the local library branches.The information from the survey will be used to support the development of the Community Engagement Framework which will include a policy, outlining Council’s commitment and principles as well as staff guidelines and toolkit to strengthen consistency, coordination and best practice in engagement.Once developed, the draft Community Engagement Policy will be placed on public exhibition giving the community and our stakeholders a further opportunity to provide feedback.For further information visit http://participate.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/engagement or contact the Strategy and Advocacy team on 9932 1000.Survey closes on Friday 20 February.

• LAVERTON COMMUNITY COURSES 2015 – The Laverton Community Centre and Neighbourhood House is runningSelf-Esteem and Assertion for Women Starting: 10thFeb : 10-12noonAnger Management for Men Starting: 12th Feb : 6.30pm-8.30pmThe centre is in The Hub 95-105 Railway Avenue.Bookings are essential. Call 8368 0177 or Email: [email protected]

Issue 8016

INTO THE WOODS

Let me just begin by saying, this movie is a musical. Do not labor under the illusion that there will only be a little singing – there is a lot of singing, all the time and that suits me just fi ne!

Director Rob Marshall wastes little time on spoken dialogue, instead cleverly weaving the fairytales we know and love together in a rich tapestry of comedy, drama and magic.

Cinderella, Jack and the Beanstalk, Little Red Riding Hood and Rapunzel come together, to help a childless baker and his wife to reverse a curse.

Anna Kendrick continues to dazzle, highlighting her versatility and pushing her vocals beyond Pitch Perfect and into the realms of Broadway.

In terms of vocal performances, there are no weak players here. Emily Blunt surprises and Meryl Streep redeems

herself from Mama Mia, with haunting vocals and a performance deserving of all the critical acclaim it has been receiving. Johnny Depp makes a fabulous cameo as the Big Bad Wolf, and Chris Pine does not disappoint as Prince Charming.

A visually spectacular fi lm, Into the Woods is entertaining throughout, but does take a rather dark turn in the fi nal act, providing an interesting

twist on the usual Disney version of a Happily Ever After.

Melissa Longo

Issue 80 17

Summer Sounds is in its 10th year and provides an afternoon of free quality entertainment at two outdoor seaside locations: Commonwealth Reserve, Williamstown and Logan Reserve, Altona. There is something for everyone whether you like alt country, blues, soul, r&b or folk. With all shows beginning at 2pm, each event is the perfect opportunity to enjoy the afternoon sun, kick back, and take in some easygoing, family-friendly entertainment. Bring a rug, picnic, deckchair, hat and sunscreen and enjoy some of Australia’s best music as if they were playing in your own backyard. There is parking available nearby and plenty of food outlets on Nelson Place where Commonwealth Reserve is located, and in Pier Street, Altona adjacent to Logan Reserve.

At leafy Logan Reserve, AltonaSaturday 7 February Kylie Auldist & the Glenroy AllstarsNikita AzzopardiPlus opener Saturday 21 February Ms MurphyChris WilsonAlyson Murray And right by the water at Commonwealth Reserve, WilliamstownSaturday 14 February Pierce BrothersGena Rose BruceRobbie Bundle

Saturday 28 February Liz Stringer bandSuzannah Espie & the Last WordMidnight Hunting Crew

SUMMER SOUNDS

Issue 8018

Things went canine-crazy on Saturday 10 January at Dog Grant Reserve – sorry, Doug Grant Reserve. It was a great start to the year with over 200 attendees (dogs included). The annual Dog’s Breakfast event is an opportunity for dog owners to get together and socialise, a chance for dogs to meet and greet some new buddies, but most importantly an awareness-raising event for the impact dogs can have on our local wildlife.

Given the number of shares the photos got on Facebook, interest in the event was as high as ever.

Spreading the word about reptiles was the reptile bus, a huge success with kids as they were given the chance to get up close with lizards, turtles and snakes on display. This was followed by talks on dog-snake awareness from Altona Veterinary Clinic and a dog behaviouralist who gave tips on how to make sure your dog does not come into contact with a snake, and what to do if they do.

The Connies, a collective of tram conductors and nature lovers, also dropped by to help spread the message. Plus, Golo Maurer from Birdlife Australia presented on the importance of keeping dogs and birds separate. Doug Grant is an important stopping point for migratory birds during summer and a favourite residence for local wader birds. The sandbars, although a dog on-leash area, are frequently explored by wandering canines who can accidentally crush birds’ eggs and nests, or scare the shorebirds and cause them to abandon their nests.

All this talk about dogs is fairly timely as we’ll soon be launching the concept plan for a new fenced dog park, the fi rst of its kind in Hobsons Bay, alongside the Federation Trail, Brooklyn. The proposed area runs along the grass strip between Conifer and Cypress Avenues and will feature distinct zones to cater for the varied recreational

needs of dogs of all ages and breeds. The concept plan will be available for comment on Council’s website in February and a drop in session on site will enable you to chat to the designers and ask questions. It will be held in the middle of February, so keep checking the Council’s website for information. www.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/majorprojectsRoad tenders for the next package of road resurfacing works closed at the end of January and will be awarded shortly. The locations include Burns Road in Altona, Harvey Close in Altona Meadows, and Maddox Road between Loft Reserve and Wood Street. We’re also in conversation with VicRoads about what assessments need to be done before we can start the proposed car park upgrade at Apex Park. Expect an update on this project in the next couple of months.

Lastly, make the most of summer because it’s an eventful time in Hobsons Bay. Summer Sounds will present soul, R&B and blues underneath the Moreton Bays at Logan Reserve on 7 and 21 February. There’s also GOWEST events at a number of locations, and a number of workshops and talks as part of Sustainable February. All these events are listed on Council’s website – www.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au.

And if you feel Council’s not engaging effectively with the community fi ll out a short survey and tell us what we could be doing better - http://participate.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/engagement

Cherry Lake Ward Cr Sandra WilsonContact details: 0419 287 117 or [email protected]

Cherry Lake Ward Cr Jason PriceContact details: 0438 871 814 or [email protected].

HOBSONS BAY WARD CHATTER

Issue 80 19

Laugh Out Loud

FROM THE INBOX

LECTURE: An art of transmitting Information From the notes of the lecturer To the notes of students Without passing through the minds Of either

CONFERENCE: The confusion of one man Multiplied by the Number present

COMPROMISE: The art of dividing A cake in such a way that Everybody believes He got the biggest piece

TEARS: The hydraulic force by which Masculine will power is Defeated by feminine water-power!

CONFERENCE ROOM: A place where everybody talks, Nobody listens And everybody disagrees later on

ECSTASY: A feeling when you feel You are going to feel A feeling You have never felt before

CIGARETTE: A pinch of tobacco Rolled in paper With fi re at one end And a fool at the other!

MARRIAGE: It’s an agreement Wherein A man loses his bachelors degree And a woman gains her masters

CLASSIC: A book Which people praise, But never read

SMILE: A curve That can set A lot of things straight!

OFFICE: A place Where you can relax After your strenuous Home life

EXPERIENCE: The name Men give To their Mistakes

DIPLOMAT: A person Who tells you To go to hell In such a way That you actually look forward To the trip

MISER: A person Who lives poor So that He can die RICH!

BOSS: Someone Who is early When you are late And late When you are early

POLITICIAN: One who Shakes your hand Before elections And your Confi dence Later

DOCTOR: A person Who kills Your ills By pills, And kills you By his bills!

When I was young I decided I wanted to be a doctor so took the entrance exam to go to medical school.

One of the questions asked us to rearrange the letters NEPIS into the name of an important human body part, which is most useful

when erect.

Those who answered SPINE are doctors today.

The rest of us are sending jokes via email.

When I was young I

One of the questions askthe name of an importa

Tho

Issue 8020

I’d like to begin this month’s column by thanking the people of Altona district for re-electing me as your local member in the election of late last year. It continues to be a pleasure to serve you and I am humbled by your support.

With the New Year often comes a renewed focus on health and wellbeing, an issue dear to my heart as I have the great honour of serving as the Minister for Health and Minister for Ambulance services in the newly elected Andrews Labor Government. Our immediate priorities in health have been to end the war on our paramedics by implementing a fair pay deal, and to make more data available to the public regarding ambulance and health services.

In other health related news, as a patron of Relay for Life Point Cook and Hobson’s Bay I was thrilled that the Point Cook Relay for Life hit a new fundraising record of $94,000 for the November relay last year, and I am looking forward to the Hobsons Bay Relay on 21 February, as well as the Point Cook Relay later this year in November. Relay for Life is a fantastic charity that has been raising money for the Cancer Council Australia since 1999. I encourage

everyone to get involved by organising or supporting a team. For more information head to www.relayforlife.org.au

Lastly, local sporting clubs will be interested to know that they can apply for grants of up to $3000 through VicHealth until the 13th of February. Active Club Grants provide groups with funds to buy essential sporting items and sports injury prevention and management equipment. I encourage local clubs to seriously consider applying for these grants, which are designed to increase physical activity and connections within our community. For further information or to apply online, visit www.vichealth.vic.gov.au/activeclub.

For any questions about these grants, state government matters or any local concerns or ideas about how we can improve our community or Victoria for the better please contact me. My email is [email protected] and phone is 9395 0221.

A WORD FROM JILL HENNESSY

Issue 80 21

Issue 8022

You can still Buy a Unique Gift

This package can be delivered

$24.95

Poet Laurette for Around Altona,Jack, has written over 1000 poems andhas selected 270 of his favourites forinclusion in this, full Colour cover, Volume 1 of a series planned to follow.

The package will contain instructions todownload an ebook version of thecomplete book, a gift card with yourmessage, plus a hard copy of the bookwill follow by post, direct from theprinter.

Order now by

Email :[email protected]

Phone : 1300 577 971

Mail : Self Publishing Books,Box 1145 Altona Meadows 3028

SHELLEY’S OZYMANDIAS

Who was this Ozymandias,Shelley’s poetic creation?All trace is long gone alasOf this king and of his nation.

He must have been a mighty king,Whose power was unbounded,Who wore jewelled crown and lots of bling,And ruled an empire he had founded.

To far fl ung lands did his power reach,An ever-advancing frontier,Over mountains, rivers, to ocean beach,Cowed by sword, mailed fi st and spear?

What was it that brought him down?Perhaps his own colossal hubris.Did the gods say, “Who is this clown?“We’ll fi x this fool; put an end to this!”

How did these deities destroyOne so full of pride and presumption?Did they tamper, tease, torture and toy,Before they tempted him to self-destruction?

Did they cause him to go mad,To bring about his fi nal ruin?His long fall from glory no doubt quite sad:The price that’s paid for prideful sin.

What ever may have been the case,As Percy Shelley would describe,Ozymandias’ long fall from grace,His tale untold by any scribe.

All that remains of his glory,A broken statue with boastful inscription.No ancient papyrus tells the storyOf his rise and ruination.

Jack Nystrom, 2.6.2013

Issue 80 23

ALTONA BEACH PHOTOGRAPHY

Advertise your business here..call

Will on 0449 834 359

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

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PEST CONTROL NEEDS.PEST CONTROL NEEDS.

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LASER CARTRIDGESSHOP 11 HARRINGTON SQUARE, MAIDSTONE ST, ALTONA 3018

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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.

Services at Your Doorstep

BOBCAT and TIPPER HIRELimited access

Servicing the Western Suburbs

Call Vic on 0418 320 535

NOORDENNE PLASTEROrnamental Cornices;

Suspended Ceilings and General Plastering

Free Quotes Call Vince on 0451 661 404

PILATES & BACK-FITNESSAre you a retiree/semi-retired?

Want to exercise smarter?Classes: Wednesdays 10.30-11.30am

Venue: Scout Hall, Civic Pde/Pier St, Altona (right of council offi ces)

$60.00 per 6-week session, $13.00 casual Call Monica: 0487 115 234

PILATES With a touch of Yoga & Medita on

Classes every Monday 9.30am ll 10.30am 7.45pm ll 8.45pm

Wednesday 7.30pm ll 8.30pm@ Altona Library, 123 Queen Street, Altona

$150.00 per term or $18.00 Casual class

Call 0432 841 628 for more details

“A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step” Lau Tzu

Issue 8024

Around Altona 80

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