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Community Newspaper Issue 43, August 2013
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'Aspiration' was the buzz word of the evening, at least for Public Transport Victoria as representatives Chris and Hugh used the word with admirable frequency in their presentation of PTV's plans for Wyndham's transport network and in particular focus on the night, the recently adjusted bus network.
The evening was hosted by the Wyndham Transport Advisory Committee, established by the Wyndham City Council to identify and advise on the ‘big picture’ perspective of getting around Wyndham, whether by public transport, vehicle, bikes or on foot.
Presenting on the night were Public Transport Victoria, Wyndham City Council, Westrans and Public Transport Users Association.
The plan PTV presented consisted of a two-tiered route system, with fast, direct routes on main roads, meeting with more infrequent, slower routes interconnecting our suburbs.
The plan also addressed some issues known to PTV. Employment areas in Laverton North are lacking; services that run every 40 minutes with no service on Sundays or public holidays; other routes, which
haven't allowed enough run time and more services required in the newer estates across Wyndham and Tarneit.
And here's where the proverbial bag of lollies was swiftly snatched away. After presenting 'the plan', Chris used ‘that’ word.
"These are our aspirations, dependant on the State budget for the Wyndham area," he said. "We need an injection of funding. We don't have that at present."
On the bright side, Hugh added in 2016, the Regional Rail link would provide two lines through Wyndham, taking the Geelong Train off the Werribee line.
"We can see Wyndham has a very good case for that funding,” he said.
Wyndham City Council’s message of the evening centered on community engagement. Whether you’d like to see a new bus shelter installed or have any issue you’d like to raise about living and getting around Wyndham, you can contact Council about it. There is tangible weight placed on communication from residents. Watch this space for more about
Issue 43, August 2013
Photo: Will S.
TRANSPORT FUTURE RELIES ON YOUR VOICE
FIND US ON FACEBOOK - Facebook.com/aroundpointcookcommunitynewspaper
continued page 3
Photo: Will S.
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ABN 78 809 543 573
Advertising: [email protected] Contributions: [email protected]
Will: 0449 834 359Louise: 0403 191 084
PUDDLING WITH THE PUBLISHER
EDITOR COLUMN
“A Week is a Long Time in Politics”Whoever coined this phrase had obviously been through a traumatic period similar to the recent one we have just travelled through in Australia.Facing demolition and, according to the polls, a landslide election, our Federal Government flew into action after a poker style move by our first lady Prime Minister, determined to establish her support or otherwise from Caucus, laid down a challenge to any opponent to “put up or shut up” in an attempt to halt press related rumors about her lack of support.Our Julia attached a condition to her challenge reported as “should there be a challenger the loser must leave politics and depart the scene”,
and unfortunately, in a close ballot the future of the government became more important than the individual in the opinion of a majority of Caucus. So our first Lady Prime Minister passes into Australian history.There is no doubt history will treat her kindly and, no doubt, those who brought her down, may not rate a mention. Ladies, the glass ceiling has been broken!
There has been a lot of action and negative sentiment with the recent changes to the local bus networks. A lot of people in the areas from Altona to Point Cook and Hoppers Crossing are upset. Some others are very happy about these changes, people who have not had enough services from the start. Why make changes at the cost of others locally?Public Transport Victoria have been meeting with residents at various local bus forums.The common lines delivered are of course, yes we "aspire to" do this that and the other thing. Every time I hear that honestly I just want to cringe.What we need to get from our current government is a statement along the lines of "this will be fixed by…" thus giving the community an end date to these concerns. I understand there is a large process to get things delivered, but when I hear dates like 2016… it is just not good enough.I have had a lot of people express interest in writing for the paper. It is so exciting to see such interest. If you attend an event, and would like to do a little write up on the event and send it in that would be great as well. I have found that some people are not too keen to take on a 'reporter' type role, so if you just want to send something in for consideration, that would be great.
Around Point Cook is on Facebook Facebook.com/aroundpointcookcommunitynewspaperHave a great month.Regards, Daniel Allen
* * *Melbourne, as the UNESCO ‘City of Literature’ is proud of its writers, readers and thinkers. Beginning in the last week of August, the Melbourne Writers’ Festival features forums and events at various venues. Details for the festival are available online at www.mwf.com.au. Grab a pen, a computer or your favourite electronic gadget to start getting into writing spirit this month.We welcome all articles, local related content preferred. It could be of any topic; your day-to-day stories such as your favourite piece of cooking or sports. It could be your urban to suburban move recently; interesting ideas to enhance community spirit; ways of improving local community, education or transport services. We would like to hear your voices. Email us your interesting and creative piece of writing this month.
CheersJasmine
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Advertise with Around Point Cook/Altona community newspapers
Contact
WillM: 0449 834 359
LouiseM: 0403 191 084
PUT THE BUZZZBACK INTO YOUR BIZ!
that next month but in the meantime, check out Wyndham City’s website http://www.wyndham.vic.gov.au and see how you can get involved in some of the decisions being made.
Richard Frost of Westrans made an interesting point about bus timetables. Apart from four key stops on each bus line, the times presented on your local bus stop are an estimate only. Buses travel at the mercy of traffic and its various levels of congestion and drivers do the best they can to get us to our connecting services.
Graffiti and damage to seats and windows on our buses takes a bus off the road for up to three days, putting pressure on the system.
Public Transport Users Association (PTUA)’s Kate Jones said it’s up to communities to get active to secure funding.
“It is political”, Kate said. “As citizens, we need to engage our politicians.”
PTUA are hosting a community forum looking at public transport in Melbourne’s west.
It will be held on Thursday 8 August 6.30pm at Newport Bowls Club, 4 Market St Newport.
During the panel discussion, questions were raised in relation to PTV’s recent changes to the bus network, where bus routes 413 and 416 were replaced with five routes 493, 494, 495, 496 and 497 to help cater for the growing Truganina and Point Cook areas.
Bus routes 414 and 446 were also rerouted, with buses no longer travelling to Aircraft station.
An interesting development raised on the evening was the discovery that the ‘consultation process and data collection’ resulting in the current changes to the bus network were undertaken a few years ago by a different department.
It was discussed that changes have left some residents isolated and have had a negative impact for some business, in particular the Aviation Road Shopping Centre.
PTV did concede they are aware of some issues following the changes but could not give a timeframe on how or whether these issues would be resolved.
- Petronella Boonen
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Hundreds of local residents attended last month’s successful Bus Forum held at the Sanctuary Lakes Golf Course. The forum heard a range stories about how recent cuts and changes to local bus services have affected many people, from students to seniors and everyone in between, and a number of local businesses.While the Minster for Public Transport did not attend the evening, representatives of Public Transport Victoria were present to listen to the concerns of residents and their ideas about how to improve local bus services, and expand them into new areas.It is clear that the State Government through Public Transport Victoria should undertake a proper Bus Review for both Hobsons Bay and Wyndham, engaging in wide-spread community consultation to ensure that bus services cater to the needs of local people, taking them where they need to go.The campaign to Save Our Buses continues. To join the campaign or keep informed, please visit www.jillhennessy.com.au
Regards, Jill Hennessy MP
Member for Altona District
SAVE OUR BUSES CAMPAIGN UPDATE
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A practical plan of ferry service from Melbourne’s West to city has been unveiled. This is following the plans announced by Planning Minister Matthew Guy of the amendment of the Wyndham Harbour development to expand to house almost 1400 residents.“Wyndham Harbour is fabulous because it opens up the western side of Port Philip Bay in a way that has not been done before – it actually provides waterfront accommodation to people want to live in Melbourne’s western suburbs,” Matthew Guy said. The service, which will start in Werribee South, will stop in Point Cook and Williamstown, before it makes its way to Docklands. The landing site at Docklands would be near the ANZ or NAB buildings. More than 170,000 vehicles travel over the West Gate Bridge each day. A feasibility study into the ferry service, released earlier this year, found almost a third of workers in Point Cook, and about a quarter in Altona and Williamstown travelled to work in the CBD.“That’s why the ferry service will be so important for people who are living in that southern Werribee precinct,” Mr. Guy said. “It will be operative within two years .”When running, it is expected to take under an hour for a ferry to travel from Werrribee South to Docklands. Each ferry would be able to carry hundreds of passengers and
would need to meet strict timetables to travel around ships in the Port. One of the residents of Wyndham has shown his concern that ferry would need to run off the MYKI ticketing system as commuters were likely to have to catch public transport to get around the city once in there.The ferry service will be expected to completely change the dynamics of Melbourne’s West with possible tourism potential.
Jasmine Hill
FERRY SERVICE IN TWO YEARS?!
Photo: Will S.
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Dear Editor,
I'm extremely disappointed at the amount of graffiti repeatedly happening around the town! It is everywhere and making our town look disgusting! The walls down Palmers Rd are constantly being vandalised, and no sooner is it covered up, more graffiti reappears!
Who ever is responsible for removing or covering it have also made it look bad by simply slapping paint over it, at least cover a whole block rather than leaving brush marks in all directions.
If each time it is covered making a neat block and even using different colours each time would make it more difficult for the vandals to know which colour to use!
It would be great to see a regular police patrol or a council security patrol to try and catch these lowlifes in the act.
R Dobson
From the Inbox
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WOMEN’S URBAN SURVIVAL PROGRAM The Women’s Urban Survival Program is a free community program held across our Melbourne karate schools including ones located in Laverton and Tarneit. They are designed to teach awareness on how to avoid becoming a victim of urban crime. Participants will learn how to survive should they find themselves in a dangerous situation and how to avoid getting into these situations in the first place.
Participants will learn practical safety techniques for every day scenarios such as travelling on public transport, approaching their car in a car park and simply walking down the street. They will also be taught simple effective techniques to physically defend themselves should they need to. The program is free to females from aged 15 and upwards, although donations will be accepted on the day with the proceeds going to ‘White Ribbon’ – Australia’s Campaign to Stop Violence Against Women’. For more information about White Ribbon’s great cause visit their website at: www.whiteribbon.com.au
The venue will be as follows:Tarneit 10am to 5pm 17th AugustLaverton 10am to 5pm 24th August
The programs are facilitated by Sensei Paul Mitchell, who is 8th Dan and world chief instructor of Samurai Karate International. He is generously donating his time
and knowledge towards these programs for the women of Melbourne’s communities. We have the excellent support of Hobson’s Bay City Council, Brimbank City Council, the Laverton Community Hub, 3AW radio station, local small business’s along with the volunteers within our organization.
For information and bookings please contactGeorgia ThorntonPrograms booking officerWomen’s Urban Survival ProgramTel: 0488 882 752Website: www.shukokai.com.au
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MEN’S SHED
Hanging out at the Werribee Men’s Shed.
Hanging out at the Werribee Men’s Shed is great for meeting new friends and being creative.
Peter Vaux who is one of our regular members has a great talent for creating many marvelous creations to sell on market days to make a few quid for the shed.
Among these creations are these very impressive hanging bird decorations.
Many of the men here are amazingly talented and really enjoy spending the day chatting away while working in their projects. With different areas to work within there is something for everyone. Gardening, welding, bicycle refurbishment, carpentry, or just sitting around the able having a cuppa and a chat.
So if you are at a loose end and want to check us out, come down to 57a Kookaburra Ave Werribee on a Tuesday or Thursday between 9 am and 3 pm and join in.
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POINT COOK SCHOOLS AT BREAKING POINT
Point Cook is sitting on an education time bomb, according to Point Cook Action Group (PCAG) Board member, Alice Osborne.
With two young kids of her own, Alice, like many other Point Cook residents, is concerned about the lack of planning for senior schools and funding for further Prep-9 schools in Point Cook.
“Our primary schools are bursting at the seams” Ms Osborne said.
“But what happens when the preponderance of primary age children in Point Cook require Senior Education? Point Cook residents are already sending primary and secondary age kids to schools as far away as Melton, Bacchus Marsh and Geelong” she said.
The statistics from the 2011 Census clearly show the huge number of children under 15 years of age in Point Cook, yet the State Minister for Planning has
been quoted saying “the demographic of Point Cook doesn’t demand schools running from prep to Year 12. More high schools will happen when the demand comes.”
However, as there has been no planning or land set aside to build said high schools when they are required, there will not be any left after the little remaining open space has been developed into yet more housing.
Alice asks all Point Cook residents to visit the PCAG website pointcookactiongroup.org.au and read just how dire the education future for Point Cook is.
“Education, quite rightly, is a key community concern and the only way for Point Cook to get the Schools it needs is for the community to speak out and to tell those responsible that our situation is at breaking point, and better planning and funding allocation is desperately required in Point Cook.”
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IS THERE A BETTER WAY TO PREVENT TYPE 2 DIABETES IN MEN?
Type 2 diabetes is an increasingly common problem. When present it reduces the overall quality of life. The health care costs to treat people with diabetes are high.
Type 2 diabetes tends to run in families. The likelihood of developing the disease increases with age and is more common in men than women in Australia. Most importantly, we know that the onset of diabetes is strongly related to obesity particularly when the excess body fat is around the belly. Previous research based in Adelaide found that men at particular high risk for developing diabetes were aged 50 or more, had a waist circumference over 95cms and a low level of the main sex hormone, called testosterone.
There are a number of reasons why a low testosterone level in men might increase the risk of developing diabetes. Testosterone decreases fat mass, increases muscle mass, improves metabolism and perhaps arguable of most importance it may increase motivation to improve lifestyle.
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In a world first the T4DM study will investigate whether supplementing testosterone in men with low testosterone levels along with a dedicated weight loss program may prevent progression to diabetes.
Men aged 50 – 74 are being sought for this $4.8M groundbreaking study. Men can go to the online questionnaire at www.t4dm.org.au or call the study information line 1300 865 436 to determine their eligibility. If eligible they will be given a request form to have blood tests that will measure their testosterone and glucose levels. If these results show low testosterone and pre-diabetes they then will be invited to join the study. The T4DM study will involve 2 years of treatment (3 monthly injections) or placebo at a study centre plus free access to a weight loss program. The study centres are based at Monash Medical Centre & The Austin Hospitals.
For more information about the study and to participate, please visit the T4DM (Testosterone 4 the prevention of Diabetes Mellitus) study website: www.t4dm.org.au
The study is funded by the National Health & Medical Research Council (NHMRC)
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“THEY’VE TAKEN MY INDEPENDENCE AWAY”Let me introduce you to Rosemary. Rosemary is an elderly resident of Seabrook who attended last month’s public bus forum held by Altona Labour MP Jill Hennessy. Greatly affected by the changes made to the transportation system, Rosemary attended the forum to voice out her anger and to gain an understanding of why these changes occurred.
Rosemary moved from Albert Park in 1998 where public transport is as abundant as mothers pushing prams around in Point Cook Town Centre. She was unsure about moving to a new area, as she did not know how to get around. Her husband Sid assured her that in case he ever went before her, public transport systems were available for her use. Years went by and Sid passed away. Now alone, older and with increasing health conditions, Rosemary has to make weekly multiple trips to see her doctor, a journey that has been now made incredibly difficult.
Let me walk you through Rosemary’s journey. To access her local doctors she needs take to take a laborious 20 minute walk to the bus stop, a huge exercise for our elderly residents. Then she takes one bus to Sanctuary Lakes, another to Williams Landing and finally a bus to Point Cook to reach her destination. After a quick 15-minute appointment at the doctors this trip is repeated totalling up to 4 hours. An unnecessary long and tiresome outing compared to her previous trip of an hour on just one bus.
“They’ve take my independence away,” said Rosemary. The new bus services have streamlined their services with trains at William’s Landing Station “But we don’t all catch trains” Rosemary said in annoyance.
As Ms. Hennessy stated “The real problem with the bus service changes is that there have been some
winners and losers created.” The forum highlighted the poor community consultative process and as Ms. Hennessy stated “if you consult in the first place before you make the decisions… perhaps we avoid bad decision making...”
“We didn’t know anything about it, not a thing” Rosemary said. Rosemary stated that she did not even receive any warning about the changes in services until a week before “There were no signs up on the bus stops… no signs up anywhere” Rosemary declared.
Changes have disabled many residents access to local community services by long walks to bus stops and in some instances no access to their local shopping centre at all. “I can’t get up and decide I’ll go out today… it’s too much hassle to go anywhere, ” Rosemary said.
Rosemary rang Public Transport Victoria to complain about the nonsensical services that have been implemented, only to be told it’s not their fault. PTV justified current changes by stating “there are always trade offs to make.” Rosemary stated, “They pass the buck.”
PTV informed the community not to expect “big changes” until the next budget allocation, however there could be possible extensions of current bus routes. Ms. Hennessy stated that she will continue to fight for services and urged residents to do the same.
Rosemary is just one of hundreds of local community members that have been affected by these changes. She refers to it as “the greatest mix up of all times.”
Join the ‘Save Our Buses Campaign’ and lobby for change for our community at www.jillhenessy.com.au.
- Candice Presnillo
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Garden page WHAT TO DO THIS MONTHSow all your seeds now to be in time to plant out for spring into the garden, and the best medium to use is seed raising mix with no added fertilizer or compost. There is no reason to feed if there are no roots, so don’t make the mistake of adding a fertilizer to your seed raising mix, feeding wont be required until the seeds have actually germinated. Use a shallow tray that holds up to 50mm in depth of soil to sow your seeds, then place the tray in a warm place covered over with plastic to create a mini hot house environment. The soil should be kept moist but not too wet at all times, and within a few weeks life should appear. Citrus TreesCheck your citrus trees for signs of Citrus Gall Wasp, affected trees will show irregular swelling along the branches caused by tiny wasps laying eggs into the branch that grow and develop over time. These insects live off the tree’s sap while growing inside the branch but don’t worry, it doesn’t directly affect the quality of the fruit although it does slow down the circulatory movement of the tree. There are no insecticides available that are effective enough to control this problem, so the best control is to cut away the affected branches then either burn them if your council allows you to or store them in large plastic bags for a long period of time until the branches have completely dried out which eventually destroys the insect. For this method to be effective, we’ll need to have a national citrus tree pruning day so that those who prune their tree are not infected by a neighbouring tree that hasn’t been pruned.
Fruit TreesWith spring only just around the corner, many fruit trees will be showing signs of bud swell by now, so to avoid insect and various diseases attacking your trees, apply a spray of bluestone copper oxychloride or similar over your fruit trees which will give them a coat of protection during their blooming season.Follow the instructions carefully on the packet or make your own, either way, never spray the trees when they are in full bloom, doing so will only cause the flowers to drop off and prevent any chance of pollination to occur.
Flowers.Prune back all untidy looking groundcovers and shrubs that were neglected during the early winter months. Remember that a good prune is always followed by good healthy growth, so to get your plants growing in the right direction start by pruning them back now. Remove any dead wood caused by insect or fungal attack by cutting back to healthy wood below the damaged area. Apply a dose of Seasol after pruning to help strengthen their roots and cell structure in time for healthy spring growth that’s only days away.
Maresi!
Vasili’s Garden and Café 21-25 Munro Street, Coburg VICPh: 1300 627 374E: [email protected]
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POINT COOK SENIORS GROUP
Meet every Friday even dates of the month, 10am - 11am
at the Coffee Club, Point Cook Town Centre
Contact Bev on 9395 1953
Jamieson Way Community Centre Self Defence Workshops for Women and Girls Contact the centre on 9395 3777 or email:
POINT COOK CHAT, COFFEE & CRAFT GROUPA social and interactive group of women who share craft skills, conversation and laughter.
Thursday 1:00-3:00pmContact Bev on 9395 1953
Community Board
LAVERTON COMMUNITY CHOIR
The Laverton Community Choir invites you to attend a rehearsal as a guest
before you decide if you would like to join.
Experienced conductor, different and fun musical arrangements. No experience is
necessary just a love of singing. The choir rehearses every Thursday
7pm – 9pm at P-12 College, Bladin Street, Laverton.
COMMUNITY INFORMATION
CENTREINFORMATION ADVICE
AND REFERRAL SERVICE
MONDAY TO FRIDAY
10AM – 3PM
LEGAL SERVICE
THURSDAY FORTNIGHTLY
BY APPOINTMENT ONLY
PHONE NO: 9398 5207
JAMIESON WAY COMMUNITY CENTRE
Photography classes,
Sewing classes,
Karate, Bollytone, Playgroup, Scouts,
Cookie Kids 3+ Activity group, Tai Chi,
French/English conversation group, drawing classes,
Camera Club, Footy Tackers, Yoga, Learningland, Martial
Arts, Performing arts,
Kindy dance, card making workshops and more.
Contact 9395 3777 email: [email protected]
www.jamiesonwaycc.org.au
What’s on at the Centre
HOBSONS BAY LIFEACTIVITIES CLUB
If you're 50+ and enjoy Movies, Dining Out, BBQ's, Hikes etc
then we're just what you're looking for.
Meet new people, make new friends,
and join like minded people in a variety of
activities, both week days and weekends.
Try us out by attending a couple of functions
of your choice, with no obligation, before you decide.
For more information and a copy of our Club
Newsletter please contact:Alicia: 9741-4313 or Myra: 0432 258 804
Point Cook Tennis ClubPlay competition for the club. Get coaching at the club from world class experienced professionals.
Become a member. All welcome!
[email protected] www.pointcooktennisclub.org.au
Point Cook Playgroup
Point Cook Playgroup focuses on
teaching through play for 0 – 5yr olds in
a safe and friendly social environment.
We run from Jamieson Way community
Centre on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday
and Friday mornings. Limited places are
still available. For any enquiries please contact enrolments at:
T: 0417 348 336
SALSA DANCE CLASSES@ The Point Cook Community Learning Centre
Learn to dance Salsa, with easy broken down steps
By the end of the 1st class you will be able to Salsa!!
EVERY MONDAY
7PM – 8PM Salsa for Beginners
8PM – 9PM Salsa Intermediate
Learn in a friendly group and keep active!
No Partner required
For more information
Call 0430 355 888
ADAVIC ANXIETY & DEPRESSION
SUPPORT GROUPConnect with others in a safe environment to share experiences and coping strategies.Every Tuesday 7:30-9:30pm at the Louis Joel Arts & Community Centre, Sargood St, Altona.$5 Casuals / $3 MembersFor more info phone: (03) 9853-8089 | email: [email protected] | visit:www.adavic.org.au
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TAI CHI
FREE CLASSES
Jamieson Way
Community Centre
Every Thurs:
3.00-4.00pm
Learn to Fly at Point Cook Flying Club
Phone 9395 1735www.pointcook.org
Help support you local community
group and join as a member at
www.pointcookactiongroup.org.au
Community Board
What’s on at Seabrook Community Centre?TAX HELPIt’s Tax Time again and the ATO approved Tax help program
is operating at the centre every Wednesday for low income eligible people.Have your tax completed and submitted online with the help of our ATO trained volunteer.Call the centre on 9932 3010 for more details. PRESERVING WORKSHOPInterested in learning how to make your own jams and relishes?
Come to our Green renters workshop on Wednesday, 28th August at 1.00pmFREE including afternoon tea. Register now. Please see www.seabrookcc.com.au for more information on programs and services.
Werribee and Districts Cancer Support GroupWe are a positive, uplifting, supportive group for all cancer patients, carers, family and friends. All welcome for a cuppa and chat on the 3rd Tuesday of every month at Wayaperri House, 106 Duncans Road, Werribee. Monthly meetings occasionally include guest speakers, or are held over dinner and creative and therapeutic activities can be arranged upon interest shown.Contact Steve Marburg (Convenor) on 0418 587 086 or by email on [email protected] or by post at PO Box 4405 Hoppers Crossing 3029or you can contact Koula on 9734 6498.
Point Cook Walking
Group
Women and Men of all Ages Welcome.
• Discover Point Cook
• Meet New Friends
• Keep Fit and Healthy
• Friendly and Relaxed
Mon, Tues & Wed at 9.00am
Leaving from Point Cook Town Centre at the Dry
Cleaners- Coles Precinct.
Thurs & Fri at 9.00am
Leaving Jamieson Way Community Centre,
59 Jamieson Way, Point Cook.
ALTONA U3AWe area located at the Senior Citizens Centre in Sargood Street, Altona
We would be very happy to welcome you as a new member.U3A means a Community of people sharing
knowledge in the 3rd part of their lives. It is for all active, retired people.
Our activities are varied and new ideas are welcome – perhaps you have a skill to share
with? We also have social outings and are a happy, supportive group.All for a low cost.The office is open Mon-Fri 10am - 12.30pm. Ph: 9398 1346 or email [email protected].
Walk This Way
Wyndham City Council have
a great listing for walking
groups across Wyndham.
Check out their website for
more information. Visit www.
experiencewyndham.com.au/
leisure__recreation
POINT COOK TOASTMASTERS CLUB
IMPROVE YOUR LEADERSHIP AND SPEAKING SKILLS
IN A MUTUALLY SUPPORTIVE AND FUN ENVIRONMENT
EVERY 1ST AND 3RD THURSDAY @ 7.30pm
PC LEARNING CENTRE, CHEETHAM STTel: 0409 383 257 (Judy) for more info
The Presbyterian Church of Australia has recently established
a new church at Point Cook.Point Cook Presbyterian Church
It currently meets at the Point Cook RAAF base, in the ‘Holy Trinity Chapel’5pm Sundays Melways 198 J2
Ph 9395 8281www.pointcookpc.org.au
(See our website for details on how to pass through the gate)
Minister: Rev. Peter OwenHe commenced his ministry here in January 2013.
All welcome
Notice Board POets are Gathering
Poetry of all types –pure, applied, old, new, historic, good, all styles, whatever
• Cartoons • Photos • Ideas • Quotes
e: [email protected] Snail Mail (with stamped envelope
for reply please) to PO Box 164, Warrnambool, 3280
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At this time of year, enjoying the delights of winter is all about cosy fires, warm hats, snuggling up in bed at night and keeping warm. While staying ‘toasty’ is the name-of-the-game, spiralling energy costs do make you think twice before firing up the gas or electric heater. So in addition to the usual suggestions, here are some warming ways that don’t break the bank.
● Keep up social interaction.
In their report titled “Cold and lonely” Chen-Bo Zhong and Geoffrey Leonardelli of the University of Toronto, found that going into hibernation mode during winter months is not good for your mental or physical state. It can lead to feelings of social exclusion, which in turn make you feel colder.
TIP: To keep the cold at bay, boost your mood. Get out and about. Spend time with people. Interact with others. “Turn up” your warmth factor.
● Fill your thoughts with sunshine.
Many people go to work and return home in darkness. Less hours of daylight and lower temperatures may lead to what experts call ‘‘winter depression’’. However, there is a way to beat
gloomy, wintery-type thoughts. A song from the musical “Hair”, proposes a simple way to do this. It says, “Let the sunshine in”.
Letting in’ sunny, cheery thoughts is an action that doesn’t rely on blue skies. It’s possible to activate warm and happy thinking all year round. The
WARM UP YOUR THINKING. IT’S GOOD FOR YOUR HEALTH.
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benefits of doing this are illustrated in the true story of a small bird that was mistakenly shut inside a linen cupboard. Although a bird doesn’t usually sing when it’s dark, this one did. As a result, it was found and set free.
TIP: Whenever you feel trapped by the winter blues , let the sunshine of cheerfulness free you from melancholy emotions. Let rays of heart-warming, positive thoughts glow in your thinking. Bathe your mind in their heat-generating light.
● Stay positive. Expect to be healthy and well.
Nothing gives you the shivers more than thinking that you might become ill. That’s why when cold and rainy weather arrives, so too can the fear of catching a seasonal sickness. One way to antidote this unhealthy mental state, is to warm up your thinking with health-sustaining, positive ideas .
According to the staff of the Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, “Researchers continue to explore the effects of positive thinking and optimism on health. Health benefits that positive thinking may provide include: Increased life span, lower rates of depression, lower levels of distress, greater resistance to the common cold.”
Tip: Think about enacting a wellness-plan to keep
your thinking healthy and warm-as-toast during the winter season. Be confident of maintaining good health. Keep the fear of seasonal sickness out of thought. Don’t anticipate illness during colder months. Consider including spiritual ideas to help bolster your mental stance. Meditation or prayer, coupled with a positive state of mind, have been proven to help people keep well all year round.
● Kindle an inner glow.
Keeping mentally warm starts from the inside. Translated, this means that any spark of warmth should be ignited by the heart, as well as the mind.
TIP: Melt any icy stares or cold thoughts toward someone else. Radiate goodness through acts of kindness. Fan heartfelt feelings for others, until they warm the cockles of your heart.
Be friendly. Be neighbourly. Such expressions of humanity can not only help keep you warm in Winter, they can help others feel warmer too.
Point Cook resident Beverly Goldsmith, is a health blogger who is also a practitioner and teacher of Christian Science healing. www.spiritualityandhealthconnect.com
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THE POWER OF FOODColeman Chiropractic and Point Cook Chiropractic Health and Wellness are bringing Dr. Damian Kristof, health and wellness expert to the area on Wednesday 14th August. This is a rare opportunity for people in our community to hear Dr. Damian’s Power of Food presentation which is all about healthy and clean eating.
Dr. Damian has a vast knowledge of food and is a well known speaker both nationally and internationally.
This presentation will give people a better understanding about what foods will give them a healthier lifestyle and how one can make better choices with our daily food intake.
All profits from this event will be donated to the Australian Spinal Research Foundation.
For more information contact Coleman Chiropractic
on 0418 544 212 or email
The talk will take place at: Laverton Community Hub,
95-105 Railway Avenue,Laverton Vic, 3028
It is essential to book as tickets are selling fast.
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BE WELL LIVE WELL ARTICLE - THE POSITIVE HEALTH BENEFITS OF VOLUNTEERISM
It’s probably little shock to hear that that lending a hand makes us feel good - Everyone has the right to actively participate in and contribute to their community and we can all play an active part in it.
Studies suggest volunteering provides more than just emotional benefits; it can make us healthier and even tack on some extra years to our lives.
Volunteering can be a mental pick-me-up, likely benefits include: Increased personal satisfaction, making friends and meeting new people, learning new skills or maintaining existing ones, gaining work experience and employment opportunities and a greater sense of connection.
The term “Having skin in the Game” is often used for small business owners of their own enterprise.
When it comes to volunteering however – I reckon “Having soul in the game” is the key ingredient.
For example, someone once told me they enjoy being a volunteer fire-fighter for the physical task orientated
nature of the work calms them! How ironic! You see it may not be the most obvious reason.
A friend told me they film short duration interest stories to put on YouTube, because there’s a stack of really interesting local people out there, and getting closer in touch with the human condition calms them!
Do you see the pattern?
The Westside community (and indeed the world) is a much greater beneficiary of your volunteer pursuit if is something you feel passionate about or if you’re really fortunate just speaks to you on some higher level that can’t even be articulated in words.
By the way “Having Soul in the Game” is the title for the next article where I discuss getting in touch with your own life’s purpose.
Until then, be well live well.
John Powell - www.bewelllivewell.com.au
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WESTERN SUBURBS LYMPHOEDEMA SUPPORT GROUP
What is lymphoedema? Lymphoedema is a chronic swelling of a body part (usually limbs) caused by accumulation of fluid and protein in the tissue spaces arising from congenital malformation of the lymphatic system, or damage to lymphatic vessels and/or lymph nodes.
The Western Suburbs Lymphoedema Support Group meets on the first Monday of every month at ISIS Primary Care, 117 Warringa Crescent, Hoppers Crossing, from 10.30am to 12.00noon. At these friendly gatherings we provide support for each other in ways that help us cope with this chronic condition, which is, at times, extremely debilitating. We have 34 members, some are now in care, others have returned to work on completion of treatment for breast cancer. Those who cannot attend the meetings, enjoy receiving our monthly Newsletter, to keep up with happenings in the world of lymphoedema. It also gives them a continued feeling of belonging. Meeting attendance varies, but averages around fifteen ladies each month.
Wyndham Transport kindly provides a bus for two outings per year, one in April, the other September. Our bus normally leaves at 9.30am from the Events Centre in Derrimut Road, and returns around 3.00pm. However, as work is being carried out at the Events Centre, we may have to arrange another pick-up spot. Only cost involved is for morning tea, and a Seniors Lunch, which one of our committee members will have organised for us at a pleasant venue.
Dennis Family Corporation and the Manor Lakes Community Fund have made it possible for our group to pursue our outreach activities in the community by way of a grant, for which we are most grateful. Our Treasurer and I attend Lymphoedema Association of Victoria Seminars and Annual General Meetings to keep up-to-date with lymphoedema treatment, compression garments, pharmaceutical aids etc.
We have our Christmas Lunch first Monday in December, and resume meetings on the first Monday in February. At the first meeting in the New Year, plans are made for the ensuing months regarding speakers. Physiotherapists from Mercy Health Lymphoedema Clinic in East Melbourne usually attend twice a year, perhaps a pharmaceutical company representative, or anything of interest can be arranged.
We invite any gentlemen with lymphoedema to join us. Please bring along a partner for moral support if you wish. You’ll be made most welcome, and hopefully you’ll leave with some new ideas to help with management of your lymphoedema. We also have a nice morning tea available. We look forward to your enquiries. Contact: Pam (Coordinator) 97425642 or Margaret (Treasurer) 97487639
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CELEBRATING WYNDHAM’S DIVERSITYWyndham City’s dynamic, vibrant and inspiring multicultural community and its many flavours, sounds and colours will take centre stage at Multicultural Arts Victoria’s first ever Emerge in Wyndham Festival on Saturday, 5th October, 2013.
From music to dance, poetry and craft to traditional ceremonies, the Festival will give local refugee and emerging multicultural communities the opportunity to demonstrate their cultural pride.
Expressions of interest are now open for performers, stall holders, workshop presenters, children’s entertainers and artists interested in taking part in the event, which will be presented and produced by Multicultural Arts Victoria in partnership with Wyndham City.
Chaffey Ward Councillor Gautam Gupta said the Festival will be an opportunity for the community to come together as one and experience a taste of the world, without leaving Wyndham.
“From the traditional to the contemporary, from Africa to the Asia Pacific and beyond, there will be something for everybody at the Emerge in Wyndham Festival,” Cr Gupta said.
“As well as great food, different customs, music, dances and languages, residents who were born outside of Australia bring a different perspective that helps to shape our community.”
“Visitors to the Festival will be able to enjoy world music and dance performances, a vibrant cultural marketplace, cultural workshops, storytelling, children’s activities, visual arts and craft displays
and much more, including a free public concert at the Wyndham Cultural Centre.”
Wyndham Festival will be held on Saturday, 5th October from midday-5pm at the Wyndham Cultural Centre, 177 Watton Street, Werribee. Anybody interested in participating, should phone Anne Harkin at Multicultural Arts Victoria on 9188 3161 or e-mail [email protected] before Friday, 26th July, 2013.
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FREE LEGAL ADVICE @ WYNDHAM LEGAL SERVICE
Are you, your family or friends at risk of mortgage stress?
In these uncertain economic times a great many people in our community are suffering every day with the constant burdens of mortgage stress and financial hardship. The real possibility of losing your home puts extreme pressure on relationships and has the potential to have disastrous effects on the wider community; including homelessness and disadvantage. Some of the reasons behind this problem include unscrupulous lenders, unemployment, family breakdown or injury.
The Wyndham Legal Service has undertaken to assist as many clients of this nature as possible and we have established a free Mortgage Stress Legal Service.
On conducting research we have identified that many people who are suffering mortgage stress do not seek assistance from a lawyer or financial counselor. This can be a significant and further disadvantage to people who are already struggling. Early intervention can limit the potential problems that may arise if the
problem is allowed to persist.
These are some signs:
• The homeowner falling into arrears in payment of the mortgage
• Warning notices sent by the lender seeking payment
• Involvement of the Courts Threat of repossession of property due to the default of payment.
There are legal and practical options available to a person suffering mortgage stress.
To obtain FREE legal advice, contact the Wyndham Legal Service on 97410198 to make an appointment.
Regards,
Wyndham Legal Service
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HEALTHY HABITS GET A KICK STARTLocal students will have access to a free healthy breakfast, thanks to support from the Laverton/Altona Meadows and Point Cook Community Bank® branches.
In partnership with the Rotary Club of Laverton Point Cook, the branches are providing a Kick-Start Breakfast Club for students at Laverton P-12 College and Point Cook Senior Secondary College.
An initiative of Foodbank Victoria, the KickStart Breakfast Club supplies quality food products to registered schools, to ensure all students receive a wholesome nutritious breakfast on a regular basis.
Laverton/Altona Meadows Community Bank® Branch Manager Ashley Coles said the branches were pleased to partner with the Rotary Club of Laverton Point Cook to help spread the benefits of the program.
“Research conducted by Foodbank Victoria has shown that students who have participated in the program have enhanced attendance and learning
outcomes,” he said.
“This is a wonderful example of how Community Bank® branches can work in partnership with the Rotary Club to contribute to our communities in such a positive way.
“Our message is simple. The more the customers that bank with us, the more that we can contribute back into our community through worthwhile causes such as this one.”
Laverton Point Cook Rotary Club’s Youth Services Director Gordon Clarence said the club was delighted to be part of the KickStart Breakfast Program.
“This program supports students in our local communities by providing a way to develop healthy eating habits that carry over to adult years,” Mr Clarence said. “This is such an important initiative for our club to support, providing students with opportunities to excel academically, emotionally and socially by providing a healthy start to their day.”
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CURIOUS CATS CAUSING CHAOSCats and kittens have long been a favourite pet for many Australians, providing not only company but also endless laughs thanks to their mischievous antics.
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, approximately one in four Australian households own a cat. However with the number of domestic cats in Australia is increasing every year, irresponsible owners are causing a rapid increase in the number of cat related problems in our suburbs.
As naturally curious animals, cats love exploring. But those that are left to roam free at night are at an increased risk at getting themselves and other animals into trouble.
Cats left out at night come across other cats and get into fights, which can cause serious injury to yours or someone else’s beloved pet. Viruses can also be passed between animals when they fight and cats are no exception. The risk of startled cats running out in front of cars in the dark is also a concern with many drivers unable to see cats on the road before it is too late to stop. Cats natural instinct to hunt does
not simply disappear because they are domesticated, which causes them to kill other animals such as birds and possums, as well as other people’s pets, especially small mammals including guinea pigs and rabbits. This is most common at night than during the day.
Linda, who has owned cats all her life, believes it is important for owners to make sure their cats are kept inside at night to avoid getting hurt or hurting other animals.
“I know people who have had their pets injured while they’ve been out at night, but now that they keep them indoors after dusk they haven’t had a problem” said Linda.
It is important for the welfare of your family pet, and for other animals, to consider keeping your cat indoors from dawn until dusk. A few simple changes in routine could prevent your pet from injury because of cars and other cats.
By Melissa Haber
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ROTARY CLUB OF LAVERTON POINT COOKThe Rotary Club of Laverton Point Cook has had much to celebrate recently with the club celebrating its 40th Anniversary since the club was chartered. This gala event was enjoyed by more than 90 guests with many former presidents in attendance as well as a large contingent of Rotarians from the original sponsor club of Werribee Rotary.
Ian Knight who was president of the Werribee Rotary club back in 1973 provided insights into the early formation of the club. Four past presidents of the Laverton Point Cook club each provided lively presentations on highlights of the clubs contribution to the community over the past four decades and the fun and fellowship experienced by club members and their families.
The club also had its annual presentation night and changeover of presidents with Peter Washington taking on the reins from former president Chris Woods. Highlights of the past years achievements included setting up a breakfast club initially at Point Cook Senior College and then at Laverton P12 College, suppling $50,000 worth of medical supplies to the Siwai medical centre in Bougainville,
installation of a playground/fort at the Wattle Unit at Laverton Autistic School, designing and building a BBQ trailer, our successful Sports Star night to assist disadvantaged youth and our involvement in a whole range of Rotary youth programs which support youth leadership development.
On the 30th of August at the Brook on Sneydes
we will again be running our annual Sports Star night charitable fundraiser with MC Kevin Hillier, Melbourne AFL great David Schwarz, Collingwood legend Peter Daicos and comedy duo Rusty and the Other guy.
For enquiries see www.sportsstar.rotarylpc.org.au or call 0407 846 382.
New club president Peter Washington and outgpoing president Chris Woods.
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AN OPEN LETTER TO THE WOMEN AND MEN OF POINT
COOK WHO WANT TO ESCAPE THE RAT RACE SOMEDAY BUT
DON’T KNOW WHERE TO START.
Dear Readers,
Around Point Cook has been fortunate enough to obtain the services of our Technology writer, Fred Gillen of Nitty Gritty Business, one of Melbourne’s top Internet marketing training leaders, who is the possessor of a library of over 100 training videos.
Fred has agreed to provide a series of articles and videos which we will publish over time and which will be available from Fred’s library over the Internet.
The tutorials will commence with ‘How to get Started’ and will range through the knowledge bank needed to become successful in this new world of technology.
The articles published will be free together with the accompanying video. Access to the full Nitty Gritty Video Collection can be obtained from Fred at:
http://www.MyVipClub.com.au/aroundpointcook
Whether you simply want learn how to benefit from the digital world or to create your own business, or even to learn how the Internet can increase your existing business, you would be crazy to miss this opportunity which comes to you FREE from Around Point Cook as part of our ’Community Conversation’.
Bill McPherson
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Laugh Out Loud
Sunday Jokes
LOT'S WIFE
The Sunday School teacher was describing how Lot's wife looked back and turned into a pillar of salt, when little Jason interrupted, "My Mommy looked back once while she was driving," he announced triumphantly, “And she turned into a telephone pole!"
GOOD SAMARITAN
A Sunday school teacher was telling her class the story of the Good Samaritan. She asked the class, "If you saw a person lying on the roadside, all wounded and bleeding, what would you do?" A thoughtful little girl broke the hushed silence, "I think I'd throw up."
A Sunday school teacher asked, "Johnny, do you think Noah did a lot of fishing when he was on the Ark?" No," replied Johnny. "How could he, with just two worms."
HIGHER POWER
A Sunday school teacher said to her children, "We have been learning how powerful kings and queens were in Bible times. But, there is a higher power. Can anybody tell me what it is?"
One child blurted out, "Aces?"
THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD
A Sunday school teacher decided to have her young class memorise one of the most quoted passages in the Bible - Psalm 23. She gave the youngsters a month to learn the chapter.
Little Rick was excited about the task - but he just couldn't remember the Psalm. After much practice, he could barely get past the first line.
On the day that the kids were scheduled to recite Psalm 23 in front of the congregation, Ricky was so nervous.
When it was his turn, he stepped up to the microphone and said proudly, "The Lord is my Shepherd, and that's all I need to know."
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Laugh Out Loud
UNANSWERED PRAYER
The preacher's 5 year-old daughter noticed that her father always paused and bowed his head for a moment before starting his sermon. One day, she asked him why.
"Well, Honey," he began, proud that his daughter was so observant of his messages. "I'm asking the Lord to help me preach a good sermon." "How come He doesn't answer it?" she asked.
BEING THANKFUL
A Rabbi said to a precocious six-year-old boy, "So your mother says your prayers for you each night? That's very commendable. What does she say?"
The little boy replied, "Thank God he's in bed!"
Famous Quotes
Any kid will run any errand for you, if you ask at bedtime. - Red Skelton
I’m not a real movie star. I’ve still got the same wife I started out with twenty-eight years ago. - Will Rogers
When I eventually met Mr. Right I had no idea that his first name was Always. - Rita Rudner
Age is something that doesn’t matter, unless you are a cheese. - Luis Bunuel
I don’t need you to remind me of my age. I have a bladder to do that for me. - Stephen Fry
You see much more of your children once they leave home. - Lucille Ball
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THE SPIDER AND THE FLY
“Come on over to my place”,Said the spider to the fly;“I have this lovely palace,“Very pleasing to the eye.”
“Is it very far from here?”Asked the fly curiously ;“No, in fact it is quite near,“Midst attractive scenery.”
“Beautiful home, you’ll not deny,“Amongst some lovely roses”.“Can I bring some friends?” asked the fly;“You have space, one supposes.”
“Oh yes”, said the arachnid,“I have this nice big parlour;“And as yet I’ve not one kid;“Each room’s hung with gossamer.”
“A big house then?” said the insect;“Yes it’s several stories high;“There’s more than you’d expect,“The best that money can buy.”
“Well what do you have to eat?“I’m famished; what have you got?”Asked the fly, rubbing his feet;“Me and my pals could eat a lot.”
“Oh you’ll find it is a treat,“A very well-prepared stew“Of various sorts of meat:“Quite enough for all of you.”
“We accept your invitation !”The fly cried, twitching his mouth;“It will be a sensation;“Spread your wings and all head south.”
“Let’s go !” said the guest of honour,But as the web came into view,The fly at last knew the score:He and his mates were on the menu.
Jack Nystrom
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Calling on Point Cook Schools and Parents to share photos, art, stories, writing for this page.
Email your contributions to [email protected] or post to the PO Box 1145 Altona Meadows 3028
Point Cook Kids Around Us
Cocoroc, Eynesbury, Hoppers Crossing, Laverton, Little River, Mambourin, Mount Cottrell, Point Cook, Tarneit, Quandong, Truganina, Werribee, Williams Landing,
WyndhamVale, Tru-ganina, Sanctuary Lakes, Saltwater Coast, Alamanda, Featherbrook, Wyndham Harbour, Seabrook, The Boardwalk, Willowgreen, Newminster, Lincoln
Heath, Innisfail, The Greens, Monterey Central, Karinya, Hacketts Rise, Waterhaven, Parkbrook, Saratoga, Esperance, Paragon, Kingsford, The Heartlands,
Reflections, Moorookyle, Tarneit Gardens, The Rise, Evadene, The Reserve
36 Please redistribute rather than discard.
