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Issue 11, January 2014

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.

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PUT A KICK IN YOUR HOLIDAY ‘TALE’!

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2014 – RESOLVE TO BE HAPPY!by Melissa Longo

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PUDDLING WITH THE PUBLISHER

FROM THE EDITOR

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

Well 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

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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.

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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 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

TAKE A LOOK AROUND

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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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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Wyndham City will come to life for the 2014 Midsumma Festival with an exciting line-up of events to be held across the municipality.

The Midsumma Festival is Melbourne’s annual celebration of GLBTIQ (Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex, Queer) arts and culture with 70 events spread across venues throughout Melbourne from Sunday, 12th January to Sunday 2nd February, 2014.

Wyndham City’s celebrations will be held under the GOWEST banner, a Hobsons Bay City Council initiative which brings together local organisations and artists supporting and representing the GLBTIQ communities in the West.

Harrison Ward Councillor Glenn Goodfellow said Wyndham City is a proud supporter of the festival and encouraged residents to get involved and show their pride.

“The Midsumma Festival strengthens partnerships with other local councils, including Brimbank and Maribyrnong, and with community groups, organisations and artists celebrating gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, intersex and queer communities,” Cr Goodfellow said.

“Wyndham City promotes a range of GLBTIQ initiatives including International Day Against Homophobia, which is aimed at ending discrimination of people within these communities. We’re an inclusive City with a vibrant arts and cultural scene, so we’re delighted to support this year’s festival.”

Midsumma Festival events in Wyndham:

Rainbow Party

When: Friday, 17th January, 2014

Time: 7-10pm

Where: Youth Resource Centre, 86 Derrimut Rd, Hoppers Crossing

Cost: $5

Wear your brightest colours and get ready to dance. Featuring DJs, door prizes for best dressed and more. This is a drug and alcohol free event with full security and no pass-outs.

Wyndham Arvo Tea

When: Saturday 18th January, 2014

Time: 3-6pm

Where: Front Lawn at the Civic Centres, 45 Princes Highway, Werribee

Cost: Free

Share a cuppa rainbow style and celebrate Midsumma in Wyndham. Three hours of lawn lounging with inflatable art, yummy nibbles, music and socialising. Open to all ages.

REACH Art Exhibition

When: Wednesday 22nd January to 2nd March 2014 at

Time: Open daily

Where: Wyndham Art Gallery, 177 Watton Street, Werribee

Cost: Free

Clinton Nain’s work explores the impact of European settlement on the indigenous nations of Australia using video, textile, fashion design, installation, painting and performance.

For more information on Wyndham City’s Midsumma Festival events, bookings or enquiries phone Wyndham City on 9742 0777 or visit http://midsumma.org.au/program/gowest

SHOW YOUR PRIDE AT MIDSUMMA

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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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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 5800Joanne.Ryan.MP@aph.gov.au2/36 Synnot St, Werribee 3030

ABBOTT GOVERNMENT BREAKS PROMISE ON SCHOOL FUNDING

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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

helene.wild@optusnet.com.au

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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Wyndham City will help keep children entertained over the school holidays with a sensational line-up of programs and events at our Youth Resource Centre and the City’s four libraries.

The Youth Resource Centre is once again running its Holiday Action Program during the January school holidays, offering a wide range of excursions and activities for children aged 12 to 15.

Wyndham Library Service also has school holiday activities planned at all four branches including movie nights, Maori dancing, African drumming and Australian craft making sessions.

Chaffey Ward Councillor Michele Wharrie said the programs offered a great way to get the kids out of the house over the summer break.

“These programs offer a great way for our young residents to have some fun in a supervised and safe environment,” Cr Wharrie said.

“Young people make up more than a quarter of our population, making it vital for Wyndham City to provide them with a range of programs

and services. These programs are available for young people from primary school age, right through to high school and they cater for varied interests and abilities.”

“There’s no need to wait until January to get your children involved in the school holiday program. Wyndham Library Service recently launched its Summer Reading program, which offers prizes for those who read more than ten books over holidays.”

“School holiday programs are a great way for our young residents to familiarise themselves with our libraries and Youth Resource Centre.”

“They are an introduction to the facilities and programs on offer year round at these venues, including the band rehearsal room at the Youth Resource Centre and the Lego Club at our libraries. I encourage parents to book into these programs where necessary, especially for those at the Youth Resource Centre, which regularly sell out.”

For more information on the Holiday Action or Breakaway Disability Support Programs, contact the Youth Resource Centre on 8734 1355 or visit http://youth.wyndham.vic.gov.au

ESCAPE SCHOOL HOLIDAY BOREDOM

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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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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.

8. What was the President 's Name in 1975? Answer: Same as is it now - Barack Obama [ Oh, come on ]

9. If you were running a race, and you passed the person in 2nd place, what place would you be in now?

Answer: You would be in 2nd. Well, you passed

the person in second place, not first.

10. Which is correct to say, "The yolk of the egg are white" or "The yolk of the egg is white"?

Answer: Neither, the yolk of the egg is yellow [Duh]

11. If a farmer has 5 haystacks in one field and 4 haystacks in the other field, how many haystacks would he have if he combined them all in another field?

Answer: One. If he combines all of his haystacks, they all become one big one.

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AGONY AND ECSTASY

Writing poetry gives me pleasure,But also a little pain,Creating a literary "treasure"For virtually no financial gain.

I do most of it at night,Or in the wee hours of the morning;In my efforts to get it right,I have sighted many a dawning.

When I'm awakened by my Muse,Who delights in torturing me,Trying to sleep is no use;I just get me a cup of tea.

The art of writing good poetryIs getting rhyme and rhythm just right;Lots of poets throughout historyHave worked by candle light.

The right words can be hard to findTo create a metaphor or allegory:This can drive you out of your mind,Even with a large vocabulary.

It's easy if you're a genius:A cake walk or stroll in the park;Me, I know that I missed that bus,So I just agonise in the dark.

But it's great when it all comes out,And my poem's been signed and dated:I really want to scream and shout,Especially if my effort's appreciated.

Jack Nystrom, 20.12.2010.

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Things That Make Me Smileby Bianca (aged 7)

PotatoesToysBathsCuddlesPoolCakeSchoolBooksMoviesBowlingSwimming ComputersSlideshowstaking photosGamescheesehamrunningdodge ball poison ball scarecrow tiggy music making thingsvanilla icecreamfamilyfriendsbedbikescooterdrawingplaygroundbeachsplashingsandcastlesfishdolphinsdogscatsmagiccard gamesbaked beanseggsbacon

Hoppers Xing kids

Calling on Hoppers Crossing Schools and Parents to share photos, art, stories, writing for this page.Email your contributions to will@aroundpointcook.com or post to the PO Box 1145 Altona Meadows 3028

24 Please redistribute rather than discard.