1

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

Continued page 3

ISSUE 54, SEPTEMBER 2012

Fancy some animal friendly elephant hunting?

This is a brilliant initiative and something worth seeing either yourself or with the kids.

Fifty life-size statues of Mali, the first Melbourne zoo born elephant have been placed all over Melbourne’s CBD in celebration of the zoo’s 150th anniversary.

Artists from across the nation have brought the parade of pachyderms to life and Mali herself has painted one. Did you know the zoo has an art program just for elephants – it helps them keep stimulated.

After the exhibition the fab fifty will return to the zoo and will be on display throughout the month of October to celebrate the zoo’s birthday.

Following that they’ll be auctioned off raising funds for animal conservation.

While the exhibition has seen more than a few animal friendly elephant hunters trampling through the CBD wilderness, a sister project has fifty-five seventy centimeter ‘mini-Mali’ sculptures scattered across Victorian schools.

COMEJOIN THEPARADE

Issue 542

Welcome to Issue 54.

It’s great to hear Jill Brookes of WestSide Stories is continuing to improve. Jill has always been an advocate for exercising both sides of the brain and I’m sure this is partly the reason for her surviving such an horrific ordeal on July 20.

If you know anything or saw anything which might give a clue to her assault on that day, please contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Our latest update is that while Jill cannot yet speak, she is having good cognitive thought. Keep getting stronger Jill. We are thinking of you xxx

Thankfully the result of a close knit community of Harrington Square, Jill got medical attention fairly quickly.

It’s more important than ever that we’re support our local traders and lobby for better security in our shipping strips so that we can continue to do what we do so well. Connect with each other.

Enjoy Issue 54 - it’s a community conversation, why not join in?

Petronella Boonen

RAMBLING WITH THE EDITOR

PUDDLING WITH THE PUBLISHER‘After the Winter comes the Spring – and the garden will bloom again’.This quote was from the great Peter Sellers in one of my favorite films which has a great story line about the Hollywood view of America and which can reminds us of something I believe can happen to us in some small way throughout our lives.This month, for all of us, Spring has come again. The daffodils have grown on time, my fruit trees are ablaze with blossom, the roses are bursting with new growth ready for Melbourne Cup time and the Sun has come south to warm us again.At Hobsons Bay Mens Shed plans are advancing for an official launch of their home in the Hobsons Bay Community Workshop in Queen St. Altona which they share with Hobsons Bay and Williasmstown local theatre groups. Rumor has it the workshop will be officially opened by local well known identity Tim Mathieson, a

Patron of the Australian Mens Shed Association at a date to be fixed in November.Williams Landing railway station continues to grow and the new car park is eagerly awaited. VicRail is planning initially for 500 cars and has land available to cope with up to 1200 if residents use the train to travel so I guess that might be a good choice to ease the traffic on the freeway.

Issue 54 3

from page 1

TO ADVERTISE IN AROUND ALTONA

COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

Contact

WillM: 0449 834 359

E: will@aroundaltona.com.au

These will join the larger herd during October.

The Zoo’s 150 birthday celebrations include a Wild Picnic, ‘Carnival of the Animals’ performance and a Comedy Debate at Fed Square.

For more information check out www.zoo.org.au/150

Petronella Boonen

Issue 544

When You Think You`re Not Enough….

I came across the other day, a normal day, someone who tried to end their life. Time becomes suspended, actions slow, moments become focused, sound more concentrated and life balances on the intensity of choice. His choice was to die. He was inconsolable in his failure to succeed. The foresight of his journeys` end calculated but not timed just right. His life had become four words…I want to die; repeated as if these words were all that he had left to say. He was tired.

Over one million people die by suicide every year. One million people every year are not heard in their desperate attempt to escape their deep feelings of hopelessness. What may begin as a bad day slowly augments into a bad week, a bad month, continuing on until all those heavy fragments of negativity overload the individual’s capacity to see beyond, outside and through the darkness.

Why is self love marginalised, ridiculed, labelled as selfish? Kindness toward self and the interaction of kindness with others through the expression of sympathy and empathy, compassion, caring and respect, love and passion is unconditional and can be given without constraint. Love is limitless and there is an infinite supply. So why are so many bereft of any?

Did this man wake in the morning, eat breakfast, watch the news, check his email, call a friend……or was he out of milk or bread, the TV wouldn`t work and the phone rang unanswered? Did his thoughts slide back to past experiences, feelings and emotions and did the layers of pain and hurt finally become too much? What was the exact moment that he decided that there was nothing to live for….that nothing had flavour, that there was no colour, no beauty, no connection, no love…..that the only choice he had was to die….

BLACK & WHITEBy MyA ASHLEy

Issue 54 5

Human life is simultaneously a path toward and a constant distraction from the splendid truth that our lives are essentially all about love. So many lyrics, movies, poems, grand gestures and meaningful words trying to submit to love, it`s essence, it`s meaning. This wonderful, self doubting, nerve racking trip of a single human life is here to remind us of what is truly important. Those moments when we get caught up in the madness of this life, the traffic chaos, relationship break up, the loss of a job, hurt and anguish; we become stuck in our own B grade movie, knowing that we would much rather prefer the Grand Theatre to display who we truly are; to have a standing ovation and recognition of a job well done, to fulfil our mission; to breath, to immerse ourselves in, for and through the delicious, awesome, vibrating, lifelong work of love.

Love is essential for a rich, fulfilling, happy life. Lack of love in any degree can affect the way you see yourself and your world, it effects your perception of your life and can limit your ability to live life to the fullest. Which path you choose to take doesn`t really matter as long as you are deeply committed and follow it with the highest intention. Discovering your deepest essence can move you beyond self loathing; surrender you to your larger purpose. To love yourself to the deepest of your being, to know that you are all right and to deepen your relationship with yourself is to be patient toward all that is unsolved in your life.

* * *

Learn to love the questions themselves, until some distant day, without your knowing, you will have lived in to the answers.

― Rainer Maria Rilke.

Need help? In Australia, call

13 11 14 Lifeline Australia

“People are often unreasonable and self-centered. Forgive them anyway.If you are kind, people may accuse you of ulterior motives. Be kind anyway. If you are honest, people may cheat you. Be honest anyway.If you find happiness, people may be jealous. Be happy anyway.The good you do today may be forgotten tomorrow. Do good anyway.Give the world the best you have and it may never be enough. Give your best anyway. For you see, in the end, it is between you and God. It was never between you and them anyway.”

― Mother Teresa

Issue 546

“To the house of the sun the men traveled, one sighting the mark of the other, depression in snow and bent branch, grasses laid low among that which the wind has lifted and lain down again, dirt, leaves, snow, a hint of wildberry in the air and with it the feint scent of wood smoke.”

Fictionaut: How We Fight

Welcome to an exquisite display of floral beauty; Wildberry Flowers & Gifts, Altona. Three generations of women work, run, and ignite creativity, joy, celebration, love and remembrance through the display and articulation of their unique flower design. As you enter the store you are met with glorious colour and high end displays of bouquets and flowers. A vibrant collection of jewellery, home ware and gifts are available but it’s the warmth, big smiles and wonderful customer service that has created a loyal and ever growing customer base.

Anita Greenacre, 31, Mother in law, Jan Hurst, 55 and Grandmother, Bette Cromb, 87 work together to create a peaceful ambience that invites the customer to browse and purchase unique and detailed bouquets, flowers and gifts. Anita has been a florist for 11 years, previously working for Strathmore Flowers, Bountiful Gardens, designing and creating specialist poise boxes, small bouquets, elegant and contemporary flower designs that have featured in glossy magazines such as Modern Wedding. Anita is also a talented interior designer and is able to advise and work with your personal style in store or in your home. Anita`s creativity emerged at a young age where she explored photography and design, talent that has become the foundation for the perfectionism and attention to detail, style and design displayed today.

Jan and Bette have worked together for many years, previously owning and running a shop in Essendon called Wombat Cave. Bette`s main role is warm and attentive advice, while Jan, who describes herself as, “a bull at a gate”, energises and assists with flower choice, present selection and gift wrapping. All three women agree that everyone has equal input and that all pitch in on those special occasion days such as Valentine’s Day, Mothers Day and Christmas.

Wilberry`s origins began when Anita and Jan wanted to establish their own business so that their creativity could be unrestricted. Three times a week before dawn, Jan makes her way to the Footscray

WILDBERRyBy MyA ASHLEy

Issue 54 7

Flower markets to purchase fresh and unique flowers so that her customers receive the best of the season.

Each person offers their own unique talents, sharing their inspiration and creating a wonderful rapport with the local community while priding themselves on the quality of product and service offered. Weddings, functions, baby baskets and chocolate bouquets can all be made to order with those choosing flowers and or centrepieces for weddings and functions able to see a practical sample prior to the event. Gift ware includes Australian products for the Body and skin, Anna Chandler crockery, Candles, lamps and jewellery so that looking for that special gift becomes a delight and not a chore.

Wildberry now offers Flower classes where the amateur can learn the art of floristry. Classes are run every month and you are able to complete a bouquet in class and take it home! Beginner and advanced classes offered. Loyalty cards are also available when purchasing flowers.

Wilberry will have its web page up and running shortly but for all enquiries and or class bookings, please call: ph: 9398 1955 of fax: 9398 1965. Email orders and inquiries also welcome; wildberry@people.net.au.

Wildberry is located at; 50 Blyth Street, Altona 3018. (Next to the commonwealth Bank)

Issue 548

A trip to Just Sweets on Upton Street is more of sugary journey into memory lane and our latest visit was no exception.

Standing before us was a plate of what can only be described as delectable packages of joy - long, crisp wafers encasing a thick creamy layer of raspberry marshmallow and bejewelled with a sprinkling of 100s and 1000s.

Mia took one bite of Just Sweets marshmallow sandwiches and her belly shouted, “There’s a party in the house!”

For the rest of us, Enzo and Maria have created a classic memory that instantly whisks you away to the 1950s and 60s when how to eat every morsel was as important decision as what to wear on Sunday. Do you twist off the top layer and attack each layer or just take one big bite?

Created onsite alongside other old time favourites such us their ever popular rocky road, Enzo says marshmallow lovers might like to try some new flavours such as coffee and chocolate.

As for Mia, the raspberry version was just fine and too big to eat in one sitting. Good thing mum was there to help.

By popular demand just sweets is now open on Saturday mornings from 8:30am to 1:30pm. If you have a party planned, this would be the ideal time to pick up your choice of a variety of helium balloons.

Just sweets are located on Upton st, next to Altona Primary School, pop in to meet Enzo and Maria if you haven’t already or day hello on their Facebook page, Just Sweets Altona.

DO yOU REMEMBER MARSHMALLOW SANDWICHES?

Issue 54 9

DID yOU KNOW yOU PROBABLy HAVE A CHOICE OF WHICH SUPERANNUATION FUND yOU USE?

Did you know you probably have a Choice of which Superannuation Fund you use? How often do you change jobs? How many Superannuation Funds do you have? Do you get a new Fund each time you start a new job? In many cases your superannuation account will be your largest asset after your home. So shouldn’t you de-cide where it is invested? You are able to choose which superannuation fund your compulsory superannuation guarantee payments are made into, and this is known as Super Choice.When was Super Choice introduced?Super Choice was introduced on 1 July 2005, and was expanded on 1 July 2006 to include employees working under State Awards.Who is covered by Super Choice?You can choose which superannuation fund you would like your contributions paid into if you are:• Employed under a federal award• Employed under a former state award, now known as a “notional agreement preserving state award”• Employed under another award or agreement that doesn’t require superannuation support, or• Not employed under any state award or industrial agreement (including contractors paid principally for their labour)Who is not covered by Super Choice?You may not be able to choose which superannuation fund you would like your contributions paid into if you are:• Paid superannuation under a state award or indus-trial agreement or under certain workplace agreements, including an Australian Workplace Agreement (AWA) and collective agreements (although choice can also be provided under these awards or agreements), or • In a particular type of defined benefit fund or you have already reached a certain level in a defined benefit fund.• Some federal and state public sector employees are also excluded from choice of superannuation.If you would like help determining if you are eligible for Super Choice please contact me.How do I let my employer know I have chosen a fund?You need to provide your employer with a completed “Standard Choice Form”. When you start work with a new employer they should provide you with this form if you are eligible for Super Choice. Once you have correctly completed and submitted the form your employer then has two months to start paying your contributions into your nominated fund. You are able to change your superannuation fund as often as you wish, however your employer is only legally required to accept one change every twelve months. So it is important that you get this decision right.What happens if you don’t choose a fund?

Your employer will have an “employer nominated fund” or “default fund”. If you do not nominate an alternative fund, then your contributions will be paid into this fund. The employer nominated fund must be a complying superannuation fund, and must also offer you a minimum level of insurance. Your employer is not necessarily able or qualified to select the best fund for you in your particular circumstances, and the obligation is not there for them to even have to try to do this. Why would you let someone else decide where 9% of your salary package gets paid to? I bet you choose which bank account your salary goes into, why should your superannuation be any different?Compulsory superannuation guarantee paymentsAs an eligible employee, you are also entitled to compulsory superannuation contributions from your employer. Currently, your employer is obligated to pay at least 9% of your ordinary earnings as superannuation guarantee contributions. From 1 July 2013, the minimum 9% superannuation guarantee rate will progressively increase to 12% by 1 July 2019.Under the current rules, an individual aged 70 and over is not entitled to superannuation guarantee contributions. In the May 2012 Federal Budget, it was announced that the superannuation guarantee age limit of 70 will be removed from 1 July 2013. This means that superannuation guarantee contributions will continue to be paid until you retire.Please contact Melinda Houghton at the office of Houghton Strategic Solutions on 9394 6344 if you would like to receive further information on strategies that may assist you to make the most of your superannuation options whilst maximising your overall financial position.Melinda Houghton Authorised Representative of Aon Hewitt Financial Advice LimitedAuthorised Representative No. 290343Aon Hewitt Financial Advice LimitedABN 13 091 225 642 AFSL No 239183

Issue 5410

Hello WendyFirst of all I must say that I admire your strength. You possess an amazing strength of character that combines emotional and physical strength with that of strong conviction. This strength is often tested. Projects or tasks often begin with strong intention but your reserves dwindle as you generally have no or limited support to endure or complete what you set out to do..Who said that you were not deserving of peace and tranquillity? Who gave you the contractual ultimatum of now or never? I believe your mother had the same tendency to feel unable to complete what she set out to do. It is as if, you start out with a team to build a castle and after a short time, there is only you there to finish it.The spirits have gentle messages for you. You are well loved by them. Have you felt a warm breeze on a cold

day, water running when no taps have been turned on, someone calling your name when there is no one around? These have all been messages from you, gentle messages to let you know that you are not alone. There is a lot of pink light around you, sending love and healing and your mother says not to give up. I feel you are still grieving from a loss of someone so special and this loss connects to a great loss you experienced around the age of 10 or 11.Those around you see you as tough, strong and in no need of assistance and you don`t like to ask! Your true friend who has beautiful shiny blond to light brown hair, and speaks with the earthy voice, offers you true friendship and support. She also gives you true advice and can lead you away from your dark thoughts.You are looking for someone to hold on to and sometimes, someone to hold you up. I feel that you have not given yourself enough time to settle in your new home and now that the dust has settled, you are fearful you are alone and may stay this way forever. This is not true. Love is on the horizon. An older man with a cheeky smile and sparkly blue eyes. He has a down to earth nature and is very practical with many trade skills. One of the jobs he held was a boiler maker. I feel is retired now, but earns income from helping his community doing odd jobs and trade repairs. I always see him in a blue checked shirt and shorts and I feel you will spend many hours sitting together on you balcony, talking and sharing a cold drink. Was it the right move to start again where you are, yes, in the long term, but now you are feeling left behind and at times forgotten. Give it more time and when you begin forming new relationships and attaching yourself to your new life you will begin to feel settled and at home. Please give yourself until March 2013 before you start making big decisions. You are tired at the moment and need to rest. Once you have attached yourself to your new home you will find work. The work will incorporate some kind of book work and you will be working for a small business in the office which may be attached to a home. The work will be part time which will allow you free time to pursue some fun activities.I see you becoming involved in a Community Centre or Community group where you share craft and cooking, garden and personal advice between a large and noisy group of women. Great connections come from these meetings and you will look forward to attending every week.Your finances have always been precarious as managing money does not come easily. Your financial mindset is limited by “comfortable” You are allowed to have abundance of finance to create the freedom to pursue all your passions, desires and financial wants and needs. See money as abundant, and it will roll in from many different avenues. Within three years you

Mya,

Things have turned around on me and are not as they should or can be. Could you give me an idea of what’s wrong?

Will I find stable employment?

Will my finances ever get to a comfortable level?

Will I move again? As always I have been meditating on my issues but have nothing come forward yet and I am losing faith in what can be.

Thank youWendy

SEPTEMBER READING

Issue 54 11

inherit a sum of money that you choose to spend on a wonderful and exciting cruise.I don`t feel you will move again for 5 years. Within 3 years you will be considering your options but it may take 5 years for you to put into action what you desire. You will not be moving back to Melbourne, but those whom you cherish most will move closer to you. So your move is to a larger Regional town, closer to a wonderful and dear friend and some family members. You are leading the way for many around you to follow their dreams and make the physical move to a more peaceful place to live.You asked me to help you understand, “what is wrong”. Nothing is wrong but your feelings of dissatisfaction are the signals that encourage your search for peace, it is a knowing that all is not how it should be, for you. Meditate with clear and accurate goals, breath in the love you have for yourself and the love given to you by your guides and spirits. What do you truly want that can meet your “shoulds” and “coulds”. Allow yourself to breath in your new life and take a moment to look around you for all the small but beautiful sights and sounds that now surround you. It is you that has instigated change for many people in your family. Be brave enough to acknowledge your strength, your wisdom and your pioneer spirit that over many years has bought kindness, love and support to many around you. Blessings.

Mya Ashley

Issue 5412

Until Friday, 12th OctoberNominations are now open for the Hobsons Bay City Council Access for All Abilities Grants.The program aims to support the development of sustainable community-based sport and active recreationopportunities for people with a disability.Through the grants program, the Council can offer financial assistance for projects that encourage peoplewith a disability to participate in sport and active recreation. A total of $7,000 is available in the two roundsof the 2012-2013 grants program – this is the first round for the 2012-2013 financial year. Funding of up to$1,500 is available for individual projects.The Council’s Access for All Abilities Program is funded by the Council and Sport and Recreation Victoria.Grants are available to incorporated community-based sport and recreation clubs and non-profit groupsand organisations located in Hobsons Bay with current public liability insurance.The program supports new projects that will increase ongoing participation but does not cover capitalworks, facility maintenance or operational costs.To nominate for the grants program, complete a short Expression of Interest form. Organisations whoseprojects meet the grant criteria will be invited to submit a more detailed application. Detailed applications forRound One must be received by Friday, 12th October 2012. Expression of Interest forms may be lodged atany time.For more information on the Access for All Abilities Grants, and to request an application form, contact theAccess for All Abilities Officer on 9932 1000, email lorrell@hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au or visitwww.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au

Have fun and access information and advice on how to live a healthy life at the Spring into Life HealthExpo.From 9.00am to 1.00pm enjoy healthy food choices and dietary advice, health checks, fitness testing,including body fat, strength testing, abdominal strength and cardio step test, Zumba sessions, Junior TigerGolf at Altona Lakes Golf Course, healthy menu options at Aqua Splash Cafe, Carlile Swimming Schoolmascot, balloons and face painting.Between 10.00am and 11.00am get tips on your swimming stroke from Altona Swim Club and WesternAlligators (gold coin donation).Enjoy all day gold coin pool access and a giant pool inflatable from 1.00pm to 3.00pm.In addition to the expo, information, health checks and advice are also available at:• Altona Library, 123 Queen Street, Altona on Monday, 10th September from 9.30am to 12.00pm;• Williamstown Town Hall (coincides with Red Cross Blood Bank session), 104 Ferguson Street onWednesday, 12th September from 1.00pm to 6.00pm;• Altona Meadows Library and Learning Centre, Central Square Shopping Centre, off Merton Streeton Thursday, 13th September from 9.30am to 12.00pm.The Spring into Life Health Expo is an initiative of the 2012-2013 Mayoral Program and is supported byBayfit Leisure Centre.For more information, contact the Council on 9932 1000 or visit www.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au

ACCESS FOR ALL ABILITIES GRANTS

Would you like to meet other gardeners and like-minded people in your community? Connecting with other local gardeners is a great way of sharing skills, swapping produce and stories, and making new friends.Check out community groups involved in gardening on ourwebsite.

Hobsons Bay City Council has been notified of a number of instances of residents damaging or killing trees in local streets and parks.It is illegal for residents to prune or remove trees and vegetation from streets and parks.Residents caught damaging trees may be fined or prosecuted.Trees are important to our community. Trees soften harsh streetscapes, add to property values, improve air quality, provide shade in summer, encourage native birds and other wildlife and give a sense of place.In some instances residents require approval to remove trees on private property.If you have concerns with your naturestrip tree or trees in parks, contact the Council on 9932 1000.

Stock up on artisan bread, free range eggs and meats and fresh seasonal fruit and vegies s at the Altona Farmers Market this Saturday, from 9am – 1pm at Altona Primary School. Entry is via gold coin donation, with these proceeds going to the school. Contact Sandra Wilson on 0432161777 for more information or visit www.inseasonmarkets.com.au

NEWS FROM My SMART GARDEN

STOP KILLING TREES

ALTONA FARMERS MARKET

HOBSONS BAy CITy COUNCILSPRING INTO LIFE HEALTH ExPO

SATURDAy, 8TH SEPTEMBER FROM 9.00AM TO 3.00PM

BAyFIT LEISURE CENTRE, MASON STREET, ALTONA NORTH

Notices

Issue 54 13

Monopoly

Scrabble

Ludo

Snakes and ladders

Chess

Upwords

Guess who

Articulate

Payday

Pictionary

Trivial pursuit

Squatter

Risk

The mining game

Settlers of catan

Boggle

Yahtzee

Dungeons and dragons

Careers

Game of life

Battleships

Mousetrap

UNO spin

Backgammon

Games on

board

Altona Kids

Issue 5414

NoticesVOICE OF HOBSONS BAy yOUTH CALLS FOR PEACE

“I’m gonna lay down my burden down by the riverside to study war… no more”If you walked past Williamstown Hall on a wintery mid August Sunday you may have heard the massed choir of two hundred primary aged children introducing the seventh Hobsons Voice Concert – this year’s theme, ‘Peace and Unity’.While the audience joined in and sang along to ‘Down by the Riverside’ the children each made a food donation to a local food bank. Director Doug Heywood OAM gave credit to the students and teachers who had invested much of their own time into preparation and practice for the event to bring the community together in a common interest.Half way through, Westbourne Grammar’s Choir, gave the younger choristers a sound to aspire to.

At the end of the performance, ‘Uncle Doug’ had a few words for parents, “Give your children a big hug and maybe a Freddo Frog!”

Petronella Boonen

Issue 54 15

Funding is urgently required to ensure the ongoing survival of the Link Centre in Laverton, Member for Altona Jill Hennessy said today.

“The Link Centre is an irreplaceable local education facility which provides specialised and a highly individualised curriculum for students who have fallen out of the mainstream education system,” Ms Hennessy said.

“While short term funding has been secured for the Link Centre allowing local students to see out this year, a long term solution is required to ensure the Centre can continue next year and beyond.

“I commend the Pratt Foundation for their long term support of this project,” Ms Hennessy said.

“I have written to the Minister for Education Martin Dixon about this urgent matter, and will raise this matter again in Parliament next week.

“I call on the Education Minister to ensure the ongoing survival of this important education facility in the West,” Ms Hennessy said.

A WORD FROM JILL HENNESSyyOUR LOCAL MP

GOVERNMENT MUST ENSURE LINK CENTRE’S SURVIVAL

UPDATE ON POINT COOK RELAy FOR LIFE There has been a good response in relation to team registrations for the inaugural Point Cook Relay For Life coming up on November 17 to 18.The Point Cook Relay For Life Committee is seeking community minded people to get involved with the preparation for this year’s November event.The volunteer organising Committee are astounded at the level of interest in this year’s event well before it has begun. The level of interest is exciting, but not surprising, given the level of support and commitment the Wyndham community have shown to the cause at the neighbouring Wyndham Relay For Life held earlier in the year in Werribee.Every hour, three Victorians hear the words “you have cancer”- that’s 78 people every day.Register a team, or support the event on the day by coming down and enjoying the event festivities and fighting back against cancer. The Point Cook Relay For Life will be held at the Featherbrook Oval, Whisper Blvd, Point Cook from 4pm on Saturday November 17 to 10am the following day.For information call 1300 656 585 or email: pointcook@relayforlife.org.auJill Hennessy has previously been the Patron for the Hobsons Bay Relay For Life which takes place in Altona. If you are interested in finding out more about the Hobsons Bay Relay For Life 2013, please email: hobsonsbay@relayforlife.org.au

VICTORIAN HEALTH PROMOTION FOUNDATION AWARDS 2012 ENTRIES OPEN

All Victorians are invited to nominate health promotion champions for the Victorian Health Promotion Foundation Awards.Building upon the VicHealth Awards in recognition of inspiring health promotion work throughout Victoria, applications for the awards are now open to the general public, as well as health, sports, education, not-for-profit organisations and governments.It is important that those in the local community who go the extra mile to promote health and encourage a healthier lifestyle are given the recognition they deserve.Nominations close Friday 14 September. Nominations can be submitted at: www.vichealth.vic.gov.au/awardsThe awards recognise the most outstanding research projects, individual champions, community programs and initiatives designed to improve the health of Victorians.E-mail awards@vichealth.vic.gov.au or call 03 9667 1323 for more information.

Until next monthRegardsJill Hennessy MPMember for Altona District

Issue 5416

Altona Gardens

be around 40 years ago that he planted an apple pip, and we watched with delight as it grew into a strong, healthy tree. When planting a pip, one can never be sure what the end result will be. If there are different varieties of apple in the area, it is highly likely the offspring will be the result of cross pollination. Malus ‘Wild Delight Pippin’ is unlike any other apple we have tasted, which is why we gave it this name. However, as we are not going into commercial apple production, we have not gone to the trouble and expense of having the name registered.

Helene Wild

In my previous essays, I have told you about a few plant species indigenous to Altona and surrounds; some Australian native species the City of Hobsons Bay has employed for street plantings, and a small selection of pretty exotic plants that I have seen flourishing in private gardens.

While I love painting flowers, I also enjoy painting fruits and vegetables from our home orchard or from the greengrocer’s shop. I appreciate the simple, uncomplicated shapes of, for example, apples, oranges, cherries and pumpkins (round), tamarillos and aubergines (oval), pears and figs (raindrop) and find them very satisfying models.

So, today, I am taking you into our backyard to inspect one of our fruit trees – our apple - Malus ‘Wild Delight Pippin’.

My husband is a great propagator of plants, and enjoys growing things from seed. It would have to

IN THE HOME ORCHARD

Issue 54 17

Community Board

Advertising Sales Representative RequiredWe are a local community newspaper group growing at a higher rate than first expected and now have a position available for an additional experienced Advertising Sales Representative.You will already know if you are a fit for this

position, you will love sales (talking to people), you area self starter (know what you are doing), you

thrive on success (you are good and you know it).Work local at times to suite you, it does not get better that thisCall me now to arrange an initial interview; if you can sell yourself, you’ve got the opportunity

Call 8307 8872

HeartLink Fundraiser

The Heart Link Network is proud to be organising a

Girls (and Guys) Night Out for “Girl’s Night In”

Fundraising Fun for the Cancer Council

HEARTS, HOPE AND HEALING

OCTOBER 5TH – 7PM at The Brook - Point Cook

COMEDIAN, MUSIC, GAMES, GIVEAWAYS

Support from and for Local Businesses

Please contact Kathy Bennett on

0412 654 376 for details

Or purchase tickets at

http://www.stickytickets.com.au/9143

COMMUNITY INFORMATION CENTRE

INFORMATION ADVICE

AND

REFERRAL SERVICE

MONDAY TO FRIDAY 10AM – 3PM

LEGAL SERVICE

THURSDAY FORTNIGHTLY

BY APPOINTMENT ONLY

PHONE NO: 9398 5207

HOBSONS BAY LIFE ACTIVITIES CLUBIf you're 50+ and enjoy Movies, Dining Out, BBQ's, Hikes etcthen we're just what you're looking for. Meet new people, make new friends,and join like minded people in a variety of activities, both week days and weekends.Try us out by attending a couple of functions of your choice, with no obligation, before you decide.

For more information and a copy of our Club Newsletter please contact:Alicia: 9741-4313 or Myra: 0432 258 804

Issue 5418

ALTONA LOOP GROUP – FIND US ON FACEBOOK3:08 Newport to Werribee about 9 mins late; driver just announced he’d been told to run direct to Newport, so those wanting Altona Loop stations would have to wait for the next train. The single track strikes again.- Daniel Bowen, Aug 4

Every time I use the train the injustice makes me angry. We used to have a direct train to the city- Give it back to us! Make public transport a convenient alternative to driving!Dalia Didzys, Aug 2

2 hours it took to from Altona to Flinders St today !!!! got on altona loop train at 9:32 and finaly arrived at flinders st at 11:31. Heard it was a broken down train at spotswood that was the problem but wasnt to sure about that. Also being stuck between stations did not help so myslef and the rest of the train just had to site there waiting. Terrible !!- Adam McKenzie, Aug 16

Sent via email today:

Dear Mr Lezala & Mr Gray,

At our community meeting on 17 May, you again heard of the ongoing concerns about Altona Loop train services and their negative impacts from a multitude of community members . As a result, there were some commitments made by Metro and PTV which are summarised below:

• Reduce waiting times at Newport from 7 minutes to 4 minutes• Minimise cancellation through the loop because of the 22 minute service frequency• Investigate and fix early train departures• Extract Altona Loop data from network performance data• Provide Altona Loop group with quarterly performance data• Improvements to Newport Station - ramps and cover

While we have seen the installation of ramps and cover at Newport station, we are yet to receive Altona Loop specific data, or hear any outcomes of enquiry into early train departures and cancellations through the Altona Loop.

Yesterday evening passengers who use the Altona Loop were (yet again) stranded at Newport while their train was diverted to Laverton (5.14 from Flinders Street), bypassing the Loop. This is not

an infrequent or isolated occurrence. It would appear that it is expedient for Metro to penalise Altona Loop commuters to meet its measurable performance targets.

Your feedback anxiously awaited.

RegardsSandra Wilson(on behalf of the Altona Loop Group)- Sandra Wilson, August 21

Sitting at Newport in freezing cold. Two Geelong trains, two express WERRIBEE trains and a Williamstown had all been past since I’ve been sitting here from 5:14pm. Nothing via the loop. This is ridiculous! And apparently I’ve still got 5 mins to wait. Brrrr!-Annalise Bishop, Aug 27

So after a desk thumping phone call demanding to speak with Andre Hernandez, I receive a return call about last Monday’s mess. I feel like I’m talking to an email.... same tired responses, lame corporate double speak.... and the 7.42 Laverton from Westona flies in at 7.39...- Stephen Colebrook, Aug 27

Every time I travel on the trains, something goes wrong so I’ve almost given up. That’s a great pity seeing I chose to live 2 doors from a station so I didn’t have to use my car. The only time the trip is more reliable is on the weekends, (if they’re running at all) when the train goes all the way into the city and through the city loop, without my having to change trains at Newport and change trains at Flinders St. One train instead of three is such a treat. Before May 8 last year that service was what we had for every train journey. Now we have 3 trains to do what one used to do. There is so much room for error and there are SO MANY ERRORS.- Maree Maxfield Kinniburgh, Aug 22

Issue 54 19

Welcome Monika and Craig from Bohemia Blend, the new café snuggly tucked into a wall at Altona Station. Open from 6am until about 11am - waiting at the station (and we all know what that is being on the Altona Loop) suddenly got a lot more pleasant!

Make it down to Harrington Square for some perfect comfort food. Our recent visit found us picking up some ravioli at Borgs, delicious bread and cannoli from Eastern Dawn Bakery Cafe not to mention some mouth watering waffles from Waffee. Mmmm. The perfect Saturday morning!

BOHEMIA BLEND

MAKE IT DOWN TO

HARRINGTON SqUARE FOR...

Issue 5420

TO MARKET, TO MARKET … ALTONA FARMERS MARKET COMES TO TOWN

Artisan breads, free range meats and fresh seasonal fruit and veggies are now a regular part of the Altona Primary School (APS) timetable thanks to the launch of a new weekend farmers market.

The inaugural Altona Farmers Market will take place on Saturday 15th September from 9am to 1pm, and the third Saturday of following months.

Stalls can include artisan breads, wine, honey, cheeses, olive oil, jams and preserves, seasonal fruit and vegetables, herbs, nuts, free range meats, eggs, pasta, along with entertainment from APS students.

Market co-organiser Sally Leung said the push for a local farmers market had come from APS parents, many familiar with the success of a similar venture in neighbouring suburbs.

“The economic and social benefits of shopping locally and from someone genuinely involved in the growing process are well known,” Sally said.

“The Altona Farmers Market is an authentic market that will allow people to meet the producer or grower face-to-face and discover exactly where their food comes from.

“It will also provide the freshest produce at competitive prices, so it makes good financial sense as well as being a great morning out.

“Hosting the Altona Farmers Market is very exciting for both Altona Primary School and the local community, and we hope it will be a great success,” she said.

Sally said In Season Markets engage and co-ordinate stallholders, with Altona Primary School providing the venue.

“Altona Primary School will benefit through gate takings and fundraising events, such as a regular market sausage sizzle or other like themed stall,” Sally explained.

Issue 54 21

Tides

Sally Leung and Carol Preston join children from Altona Primary School to promote the market

“Shopping at the Altona Farmers Market is a terrific way to support the local community as all proceeds will go back to Altona Primary School,” she said.

In keeping in line with the farmers market philosophy, shoppers are encouraged to bring their own bags or shopping trolley to cut down on plastic bags. The Altona Farmers Market will be held rain or shine on the large oval of Altona Primary School. Entry is via the Blyth Street or Railway Street entrance at a cost of a gold coin.

Issue 5422

Laughing Out Loud

I changed my i Pod name to Titanic. It’s syncing now.

When chemists die, they barium.

Jokes about German sausage are the wurst .

A soldier who survived mustard gas and pepper spray is now a seasoned veteran.

I know a guy who’s addicted to brake fluid. But he says he can stop any time.

How does Moses make his tea? Hebrews it.

I stayed up all night to see where the sun went. Then it dawned on me.

This girl said she recognized me from the vegetarian club, but I’d never met herbivore.

I’m reading a book about anti-gravity and I can’t put it down.

I did a theatrical performance about puns. It was a play on words.

The report said I had type A blood, but it was a Type-O.

PMS jokes aren’t funny, period.

Why were the Indians here first? They had reservations.

Class trip to the Coca-Cola factory. I hope there’s no pop quiz .

Energizer bunny arrested . Battery charged.

Poet’s Corner

MY CATpoem by Jack Nystrom

One day I said to my fat tabby cat,Curled up contented at my feet,“Why don’t you go out and find a rat;“Catch yourself a fresh piece of meat?”

The response from the lazy old tabbyWas, “Why would I want to do that?”;And in a tone just a wee bit crabby,“I’m quite happy here on this mat.”

I explained, “’Cause that’s part of your nature;“A cat is a hunter gatherer !”She said, “You’ll feed me; of that I’m sure;“And rat-catching’s such a bother.”

“You’re getting far too fat !” was my retort;“The exercise will do you good;“And hunting is fun; it’s very good sport:“Rats are a cat’s natural food.”

“Oh !” said she, “I couldn’t kill a rodent;“My very best friend is a mouse;“And Mikey is such a cute little gent:“He lives right here in this house.”

“It’s your job !” I cried, “To kill filthy vermin;“Or are you just too damned tired ?”“Oh no” she purred, “I could never eat him:“Besides, just like you, I’ve retired.”

Issue 54 23

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Issue 5424

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