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Issue 33 November 2015

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Please redistribute rather than discard this paper - give it to your friends, family or neighbours!

6 13 20page THIS DIWALI, SAY

NO TO FAMILY VIOLENCE

page pageBENEFITS OF APPLE CIDER VINEGAR FOR YOUR PET

Hoppers Crossing Secondary College and Utahloy International School have been working together, in an exchange program designed to provide a learning experience for the year 9 and 10 students selected to participate. In it’s fourth year and going strong, the development of global citizenship is the main focus of this program, whereby students develop an awareness of cultural differences and the value of communication and leadership skills.

The 2015 China delegation embarked on a 14 day trip of a lifetime, with teachers, Mr. Scott Logan and Miss Leanda Carey. During this overseas learning experience, the delegation was able to give back to the community, by completing volunteer work and providing support in some local primary and secondary schools, as well as an orphanage in Beijing. Students immersed themselves in the wonders of the culture, history, education and food within China

and gained valuable skills in communication and leadership.

Student Sara Bibi was thrilled with her experience, “As a member of the 2015 China delegation, I would have to say that this trip has been truly amazing for me. I believe this trip has opened up my eyes to see what really matters in life and now I’m more grateful for what I have here in Australia.”

Remy Rohayem was also lucky enough to be a part of the delegation and she could not be more grateful, “Overall the trip was life-changing, and we are all now very appreciative of what we’ve got . . . Learning about Buddhism and how it is important to the Chinese culture was a significant part of the experience for myself. The Big Goose Pagoda was incredible to visit, and the temples and Buddha statues were amazing!”

FROM HOPPERS TO CHINA…Melissa Longo

FLICK CHIC REVIEWS

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Advertising enquiries: Daniel 0408 659 940

aroundsell@gmail.comWill 0449 834 359

will@aroundhopperscrossing.comLouise 0403 191 084

Alan 0412 412 740

Advertising: aroundsell@gmail.com will@aroundhopperscrossing.com Contributions: editorhoppers@gmail.com

Publishers:Bill 8307 8872

Will 8360 8598ABN 54 145 436 804 www.aroundhopperscrossing.com

FROM THE EDITORThere seems to be a running theme with this month’s paper – smile, be happy and take care of yourself. It wasn’t planned, I can assure you, but as my team of writers started sending through their efforts, it became pretty clear that general health and well being was on every one’s mind at the moment.

It isn’t surprising really – when the warmer weather kicks in, people have a tendency to re-evaluate. It usually comes from a place of wanting to look good in a bikini – for me, that ship has sailed.

Lately I’ve been on a real mission to Just Eat Real Food. It sounds so simple, but with the amount of processed foods clogging up our supermarket shelves, it is actually harder than you think! I am up to the challenge, though and the reward has been terrific!

Just last week I made my own jam, cream cheese and the most incredibly delicious zucchini butter – all fresh

and preservative free.

It is hard to think about making such big changes, but even small changes can make a difference. Try buying free range eggs, or something organic – it is not only good for you, but it’s also really good for the environment.

Have a read through this month’s paper and hopefully we can inspire you a little. Health and happiness go hand in hand, so put a smile on that face of yours and the rest will fall into place!

Thanks in advance,

Melissa Longo

PUDDLING WITH THE PUBLISHERRecently I had a call from a reader with a request for help. Apparently her husband was featured in an article about the chess competition in the West, printed in our October edition. He is Derek and she is Jill.

Many years ago, Derek was attending a function wearing a jumper, the pattern of which attracted the attention of Jill. Jill was obviously present at the function and developed a sudden desire for the particular pattern design on Derek’s jumper, to add to her collection.

Not being a backward lass, Jill marched up to Derek, introduced herself and made a request to photograph said jumper, which Derek quickly agreed to, and in due course, they married.

The trigger to this marriage, the jumper in question, remained a coveted item in their household, until it was finally declared too old and in a recent clearing out, sent off to the local opp shop (shame shame, the

great grandchildren will say.)

To the rescue came the latest copy of the local community paper, and the jumper reappeared before Jill’s eyes. Naturally she jumped on the phone and we quickly became friends. I admired her ability to throw out the old jumper - I can’t do that. I’ve still got my old jumper at home in a small shed; the elbow has burst out and I cannot repair it, but I’m confident I’m going to, when I get a ‘roundtoit’ one day. P.S. I’ve still got the last ‘roundtoit’ I bought years ago!

Bill McPhersonbillmcpherson@optusnet.com.au

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Students experienced places of cultural significance such as Shanghai and Beijing, as well as visiting the Great Wall of China, the Terracotta Warriors and Tiananmen Square.

Through full cultural immersion, the students have clearly benefited in ways that can never be fully quantified, or articulated.

Hoppers Crossing Secondary College is not only preparing their students for life beyond school, but also for what lays beyond our borders and that is a truly wonderful thing.

TO ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS

IN “AROUND HOPPERS CROSSING”

GIVE US A CALL:

Alan 0412 412 740

Daniel 0408 659 940 aroundsell@gmail.com

Louise 0403 191 084

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A MAN AND HIS PINTThe habit of drinking beer straight from the bottle is one of the more distressing features of modern life. It started with Gen Y and I blame it on the lack of a male role model in the lives of many of that generation.

Let me take you to a snug in some small Irish town to observe how a real man drinks his beer. Let’s call him Arthur. He comes in wearing a tweed cap and boots that indicate work in muddy fields. He nods to the barman; they know each other, and the nod is the silent order for a pint of the national beverage. The French would like to change the measure to 568 ml, but not even the might of the EU can change the sacred significance of THE PINT.

The barman fills the tumbler slowly, resting it at 45 degrees in the palm of his hand, a process that, done properly, takes between 119 and 122 seconds, spread over two instalments.

Then he sets the offering down. He has been doing this for years, but somehow manages to put it in the wrong place. So Arthur picks it up as carefully as if it were the holy chalice and moves it five cm.

After some minutes, without looking at the glass, his right hand moves slowly and deliberately to pick it up. He looks at it with something between disinterest and reproach, like a nun picking up Playboy, if you can remember Playboy.

Then instinct takes over; he brings the glass to his lips, tilts it to an angle of 9.4 degrees and the black stuff flows smoothly as if obeying some obscure principle of hydrodynamics. There is no urgency, the only movement an almost imperceptible rise and fall of the Adam’s apple; this is the kind of smoothness that you could use to sell engine oil.

When the glass is three-eighths empty (some virtuosos go to seven-sixteenths), he puts it down on the counter and slowly wipes his lips. He is content. He will read his paper for some time before his hand reaches for the pint again. This time he will drink five-sixteenths before settling back to his paper. The remainder of the drink will be finished in one go, and if your arithmetic is up to scratch, you will work out that this will involve either one-quarter or three-sixteenths. Only women or rank amateurs require more than three visits to the glass to finish a pint; only university undergraduates or Australian Prime Ministers do it in less than three.

You wander out to the evening traffic, to the world of everyday things, content that you have watched a master at work. You feel better for it.

And you promise yourself that you will never again drink beer from the bottle.

Frank O’Shea

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WINNING THE FIGHT AGAINST CHRONIC PAIN

Anyone who suffers from chronic pain (pain that persists for longer than expected following injury or trauma) knows all too well the severe physical, emotional and social toll it takes.

Chronic pain can interfere with mobility, sleep, work, exercise, sex and self-care, which in turn, can have a negative effect on personal relationships, social interactions and lifestyle.

For these sufferers, alleviating the pain is a top priority. Several strategies beyond medication are now recognised as helpful for the successful management of chronic pain.

Meditation and relaxation are useful, as research has shown that stress and negative thoughts and feelings influence pain and affect how we experience it.

The neuroplasticity of the brain, the idea that the brain can adapt and change overtime with training, also offers fresh hopes: you can train your brain to reduce pain.

Hypnotherapy is an effective way to do this, as it works at the subconscious level to train the mind to let go of pain and create change in a person in the form of new responses, thoughts, attitudes, behaviours or feelings.

Medical trials in medicine, psychiatry and psychology conducted in the U.S. and Singapore between 2007 and 2014 show that ‘hypnosis interventions consistently produce significant decreases in pain associated with a variety of chronic-pain problems’.

In these trials, sufferers who received hypnotherapy ‘reported significantly more pain intensity reduction than the control group’ as well as ‘significant improvements in pain intensity, pain interference and sleep quality’.

Hypnotherapy involves inducing a relaxed state of mind and enhanced attention and concentration in a sufferer to treat psychological, emotional and/or psychosomatic issues such as chronic pain, insomnia, anxiety.

When hypnotised, sufferers are highly receptive to targeted suggestions of relaxation, comfort, pain relief and improved sleep. In trials, listening to tailored recordings also reinforced the message for pain relief provided in sessions, with improvements being maintained for several months.

For more information, visit www.hypnolife.com.au

Fabienne Chevalier

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THIS DIWALI, SAY NO TO FAMILY VIOLENCE

Wyndham Diwali Mela, the Victorian Multicultural Festival of Lights, signifies victory of good over evil. The aim of Wyndham Diwali is to promote the message of, ‘the world is one family’ and for us Australians, ‘Many Cultures, One Nation’.

In our daily lives being busy leaves very little space to provide our children with safe social experiences; Wyndham Diwali Mela is the perfect place to provide such a quality environment.

Last year, there was participation from many sections of the region. The colours, music, and performances by community groups, as well as fireworks, provided a great platform for social engagement.

Wyndham’s cultural diversity is recognized and celebrated as one of the city’s greatest assets, contributing to growth and enriching our community on so many different levels – social, cultural, economic and intellectual.

Wyndham’s Diwali team hopes that participants will have fun, enjoying the festivities which are aimed at all residents, regardless of their cultural background.

It was great to see over 22,000 members of the community visit us and celebrate the festival last year. We anticipate seeing even more this year.

Family fun and food fiesta will be the common mark of the festival each year, with invitations to all residents here in Melbourne’s western suburbs.

Come join us on Saturday 14th November, at Presidents’ Park, central to Werribee/Hoppers Crossing, and close to many suburbs, such as Wyndham Vale, Tarneit, Truganina, Williams Landing and Point Cook. The partnership base has grown this year to have more participants on stage.

Youth groups are also participating in the event, in addition to several community groups such as African, European, North American, Asian, Pacific and many others who took part last year. The rich tradition and colourful costumes are growing in number, adding

splendour to the event.

With a focus on fashion, dance and singing, with live bands, this event is intended to be a platform for locals to showcase their incredible talents, provide a marketplace for local businesses, as well as creating short term job opportunities within this rapidly expanding community. This year's Festival of Lights will feature some of India's leading dancers and musicians who are now calling Wyndham and surrounding areas home.

This year the Wyndham Diwali team has taken on a social cause, to increase awareness on Family Violence. We take a pledge to say NO to family violence. Let us make our families, with a foundation of love, despite the pressures and difficulties we face in life.

All families are welcome - forget your chores for one day and your culinary needs are taken care of. There is a variety of cuisine from different nationalities, with food and snacks available for lunch, or dinner. Witness how the event lights up the sky with a fireworks display, as the sun sets over Wyndham in a grand finale!

Do not forget to register for your free ticket to the event at www.wyndhamdiwali.org.au. Visit our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/wyndhamdiwalifestivaloflights

For more details, contact:

Raghunandhan Kuncha Koorthy, President at Wyndham Diwali Inc. on 0413 359 776

Srinivas Shesham, Vice President at Wyndham Diwali Inc. on 0422 217 667

Archana Kuncha Koorthy, Artistic Director at Wyndham Diwali Inc. on 0432 161 933

So many visitors at Wyndham Diwali 2014 (Photo by Elan Govin)

Supported by

Unity through Partnerships

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YOU CAN BE HAPPY WITHOUT LAUGHING...

But if you laugh for long enough you become Happy.

Research shows that regular laughter is good for the brain. When we laugh while learning something new, we become more relaxed and therefore learning becomes easier and faster. Neuro plasticity, (the study of the brain as being plastic and can change itself,) proves scientifically, that if we regularly laugh and challenge the brain, by learning new things and even travelling – the brain grows new neuro pathways. If we keep doing this, the new pathways remain and our memory and life is enhanced.

Regular laughter also relieves pain, lowers heart rate, lowers blood pressure, strengthens the immune system, improves our memory and most of all, makes us Happy. Add to this a positive attitude, focusing on what you have and not the things you don’t have. Appreciate every day, choose to smile often and miracles will begin to occur in the body, mind and life.

I believe disease occurs after many years of being not at ease - if we make a choice to do all of the above, and also to become AT EASE, breathing deeply, enjoying the moment - a healthier body and mind will be the outcome. In the 30 years of choosing all of the above in my own life and also helping others, I know this works.

Nearly 12 years ago, I trained as a Laughter Yoga leader and teacher, with the World founder, Dr. Madan Kataria. Since then, I have spread laughter wherever I go. It has become a natural part of me and has completely changed my life.

Norman Cousins wrote a book many years ago, about how he healed himself of cancer by laughing all day, every day, all by himself, until all cancer disappeared.

He watched comedies! If you have any doubts about my words, please read his book.

Over the past 12 years, I have founded and facilitated four Laughter Clubs. My current Laughter Club, is at Cherry Lake, via the Millers Rd entry, in Altona. It is every Saturday at 10am and it is completely FREE!

It is important to give yourself permission to laugh, because as we grow older, we get out of the habit and we need to retrain ourselves to laugh, for longer than just a he he he.

You could choose to have Laughter nights, where you just watch comedies – you know you ARE worth it.

Make it your daily choice to find a way to laugh and get Happy.

Carolyn NicholsonInternational Ambassador of Laughter Yoga.Founder/Leader Cherry Laughter Club – Altona.Mobile: 0413821636

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AVALON GETS COMFORTABLEAvalon Airport has just unveiled its latest exciting project – a $200,000 upgrade of the terminal and departure lounge.

The refurb has been timely, with direct flights to the Gold Coast to begin from October 26, as well as the very recent Jetgo announcement of a temporary flight schedule, to and from Dubbo from October 27.

The make over means the airport has become incredibly functional, as well as comfortable.

“This upgrade will significantly increase passenger comfort, in what is already a very accessible and friendly airport,” says Avalon Airport CEO Justin Giddings. “We want the people of Melbourne’s west to be proud of their local airport, by providing facilities and access which exceeds expectations.”

It begins with a new lounge outside check-in for early arrivals, or people who are waiting to pick up passengers.

The terminal lounge is now bordered by pristine

white work benches, with power and USB charging stations the entire length, so that travellers may recharge their devices, without having to find and unplug the nearest massage chair – as is known to happen in airports around the country!

Travellers can stay connected with free Wi-Fi, which is delivered through a partnership with Deakin University. Students can also access Edu roam through this feature.

Lounge seating by the window makes for a relaxing start to any journey, and by Friday afternoon, (with the café’s Friday Slider special each week,) the place is vibrant and humming.

Stay in touch with Avalon Airport news by following on Facebook, Twitter (@AvalonAirportAU) and Instagram (@avalonairport).

Book flights to Gold Coast or Sydney: www.jetstar.com/au

Book flights to Dubbo: http://www.jetgo.com/

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CLEAN SOLUTIONS

Nowadays we can buy solutions to clean our homes, but how safe are they?

Many people have not thought to use some of nature's best cleaning solutions - these are non toxic and often do a better job than the manufactured chemicals we invade our homes, cars and environment with.

IN THE KITCHEN

1. Chopping boards should be cleaned with cold water. Never use the same board to cut meat, salads and bread. Odours in chopping boards can be removed by rubbing with salt.

2. To remove a build up of calcium in kettles, put some cut up lemon inside the kettle and fill with water. Boil, leave for two hours, then empty and rinse.

3. Clean the oven after using it - turn off the heat and place a small bowl of cloudy ammonia inside. Leave for several hours, remove the bowl and wipe the oven out thoroughly. Wipe the oven doors with bicarbonate of soda on a dampened cloth.

4. When wiping down benches and cleaning the floors, add a tablespoon of eucalyptus oil to the bucket for the floors. On a dampened cloth, a few drops of eucalyptus oil will clean and kill most germs.

UNWELCOME GUESTS

Weevils can destroy dry goods in your kitchen cupboards. When you purchase rice or flour, thoroughly chill in the freezer, before putting into airtight containers in the cupboard.

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Discard any foods that you feel may be contaminated. Carefully check containers, especially inside corners and the lids.

Wipe down shelves with peppermint oil or bay oil, or simply bruise and scatter some bay leaves in the cupboard.

FOR THE LAUNDRY

1. Ballpoint ink can usually be removed with methylated spirits. Another effective remedy is to spray with some hair spray, leave for a minute, then wipe off.

2. Bloodstains should be covered with a paste of bicarbonate of soda and water - leave to dry then brush off. On washable fabrics, rub the bicarbonate soda on the area and wash with salted water.

3. Chocolate can be sponged with cold water. For old stains, sponge with glycerine.

4. Fruit and fruit juice stains need to be sponged with cold water or soda water. Rinse immediately and wash as normal.

5. Grass stains should be dampened, rubbed with methylated spirits, rinsed and soaked in vinegar.

6. Red wine stains should be quickly treated with soda water. Sponge washable garments with glycerine, then wash.

7. Dust mites can cause allergies and sneezing. Add 50ml of eucalyptus or tea tree oil to your washing machine, when washing sheets, pillowcases and nightwear.

FOR THE BATHROOM

1. Plain white vinegar can keep your bathroom mildew free. Remove clogged shower heads and put into boiling water with a cup of vinegar. Keep shower screens soap free by washing with a solution of one cup vinegar, two tablespoons of ammonia and one litre of water.

2. Soak new shower curtains in a salt water solution before hanging, to prevent mildew.

3. Clean bathrooms with hot water and eucalyptus oil. Wipe taps and rails with eucalyptus oil. To stop mirrors fogging over, add a few drops of eucalyptus oil to a dampened cloth and clean the surface of the mirror.

Yours in good health,

Cherie de Haas

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INAUGURAL WALK OVER CANCER CHALLENGE RAISES HOPE

The benefit of charity walks, runs and rides was made clear to me as I participated in the inaugural Walk Over Cancer Challenge, a 7-day event held at the beginning of October.

Run by the Cancer Council of Victoria, the Challenge allowed me to do something tangible about a disease

that touches 30,000 Victorians every year, by doing something I love to do – walking.

My goal was to cover 75-100kms over the week, which was a challenge, given I needed to fit it around full-time work and family commitments.

I became mindful of the support of my family and was grateful to my partner Dan, who had been cooking our dinner as I landed at night.

I was mindful of the extra energy needed by a person fighting cancer – around the ordinary stuff life requires – not just for seven days but every day.

During the event, I took in some amazing sunrises and sunsets and I even found a more interesting walking route to my local shopping centre.

At the end of the Challenge, I met my goal with a total of 82.92kms or 98,128 steps.

The support and encouragement of friends, family and colleagues meant I was well on my way towards my fundraising goal of $1000.00.

At the time of writing, the overall funds raised were $45,476.28 – real dollars for cancer research, prevention programs and support services.

On Saturday November 14th, through to Sunday November 15th, Point Cook will undertake its fourth 18-hour Relay for Life, at Featherbrook Oval. Whether you are there to participate, or offer support, this successful community event is worth a visit.

For more information on how to get involved, visit their Facebook page.

We are all touched by cancer in some ways and there are some amazing people facing the real challenge of managing cancer in their day-to-day life. It’s friends, family and community that make that challenge more manageable and every little bit counts towards the making of success stories in the future.

Petronella Boonen

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Pets Page BENEFITS OF APPLE CIDER VINEGAR FOR YOUR PET

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is one of the most popular natural remedies, for both internal and external use today. So what is ACV, and how can we use it for our pets?

ACV is made using organic apples which undergo a long fermentation process, over the course of weeks or months. The longer the fermentation process, the greater the accumulation of important enzymes and nutrients that occurs - this is known as the mother of vinegar.

Benefits for pets include:

- Relieves stiff joints and muscle cramping.- Improves digestion.- Helps to relieve allergies.- Acts as a urinary tonic - helping to clear urinary tract infections, and prevent the formation. of kidney and bladder stones.- Improves growth and condition of fur/coat.- Clears skin of bacterial and fungal infections.

- Reduces skin flaking and dander, which alleviates itching.- Helps to clear and prevent ear infections when applied to the ears.- Repels insects and fleas.Some ways to treat your pet with Apple Cider Vinegar:- Simply add 1tsp for cats and small dogs, 2tsp for medium dogs or 1tbsp for large dogs into food or water once daily.- For itchy skin, use a 50/50 solution of ACV and water in a spray bottle and apply it directly onto itchy spots. Do not use on open wounds as this will sting if the wounds are raw. This can also be used as a rinse after a bath. Use solution and let air dry for best results.- For flea and tick repellent, use a 50/50 solution of ACV and water. - As an ear cleaner - use 50/50 solution of ACV and water and clean the ear, using cotton balls soaked in solution.Enzymes and nutrients which exist in unpasteurized apple cider vinegar can be very beneficial when added to your pets existing diet. Make sure to get a raw, unpasteurized AVC, as it is more likely to contain the mother of vinegar. Everyone can benefit from this amazing supplement, so why not add it into your diet and enjoy the positive effects as well?

Cindy Bremner

Natural Pawfection- Animal Naturopath

0421 446 764

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HELPING HAND DAY

While many people are preparing their lists of holiday tasks to accomplish and gifts to purchase, there are many others who are struggling in the Wyndham area, due to increased cost of living and job loss.

To ease some of the pressures that accompany the holiday season, families with a current pension or healthcare card are invited to Helping Hand Day on Saturday 5th December from 10:00am to 12:00 noon, at Point Cook Senior Secondary College.

Families will be provided with a free food hamper, quality pre-loved clothing and new toys for their children.

Event coordinator, Rico Lardizabal, recalls the first Helping Hand Day, in which a boy was very keen on finding the perfect pair of shoes among the pre-used items,

"His face lit up when he found the practically new runners in just the right size.

I asked him if he was happy and he said with the most innocent smile, 'It's my birthday today and all I want is a pair of runners to replace these,' pointing to his old worn out shoes.

What a joy!"

Lightpoint Church has been organizing Helping Hand Days since 2012.

Last year over 600 people received assistance.

This year JBS, Harvey Norman and Storage King are sponsoring the event and organizers hope to help even more families.

Event Details

When:

Saturday 5th December,

10:00am -12:00 noon.

Where:

Point Cook Senior Secondary College, corner of Boardwalk Boulevard and

Bergamot Drive.

Bring your pension or healthcare card.

For more information,

call Rico on 0421 634 154.

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ROSE AND SHINE!With approximately 5000 roses expected to be in bloom, this year’s Victoria State Rose and Garden Show is not to be missed! Running over the course of two days, this free event is the perfect place to enjoy the beauty that spring has to offer.With live music, food trucks, a garden party set up for all to enjoy, with lawn games and face painting for the kids, there will be no shortage of entertainment. The event also boasts a host of experts, such as Vasili from Vasili’s Garden, to talk you through any gardening queries you may have.Wyndham City Mayor Cr Peter Maynard expects huge numbers at this year’s event, “Set among the roses, this event is the ideal location to get advice on your garden or buy some new plants and supplies, including rose varieties you won’t be able to buy anywhere else.”So embrace your inner gardener, pack a picnic rug and come soak up the atmosphere with friends.Event details:When: November 14-15 2015, 10 am to 4 pmWhere: Werribee Park, K Rd, Werribee South (onsite parking available)Cost: Entry is free.For more information on the State Rose and Garden Show, visit www.stateroseandgardenshow.com.au

THE LAVERTON FESTIVAL!A Community in Harmony – that is the message of this year’s Laverton Festival, being held on Sunday November 22nd, between 11am and 4pm, on Aviation Road.A great family day full of entertainment, the heart of Laverton will burst into life with plenty of activities for all to appreciate. Face painting, animal farms, plaster painting and sand art will be free for the kids to enjoy, as well as $10 ‘all day’ ride passes! Of course there will be a multitude of food vendors, helping to keep the masses satisfied and plenty of stall holders, doing their best to keep you spending your hard-earned!With the weather finally warming up, it is sure to be a fantastic way to spend your Sunday!

WERRIBEE CRAFT FESTIVALThe Werribee Craft Festival is on again, the weekend of November 7th and 8th. Arts and crafts will reign supreme at this Handmade 2 Day Fair, at the Wyndham Civic Centre. With FREE Admission and parking, the fair will keep craft-lovers entertained, with more than 80 stalls from across Victoria, showcasing and selling many top class, different and interesting Crafts. Come and join in the fun of the Fair, with Children's Craft Activities and Devonshire Teas. Time: From 9am - 4pmMore information: http://werribeecraftfestival.tripod.com/

WHAT IS PETANQUE?Petanque is a traditional French game played on a gravel court between teams of two, or three players. Thanks to the initiative of a few Petanque lovers living in Point Cook, a community Petanque court has been created in the Point Cook Coastal Park. Construction of the court was undertaken by the Laverton and Point Cook Rotary Club, as a Rotary project and together, with a grant from the Healthy Living Committee at Wyndham Council and the co-operation of Parks Victoria, a Petanque court large enough to accommodate six playing lanes called 'pistes', is ready for use. This great facility is open to everyone and we invite existing players, or anyone interested in learning how to play the game to contact Nicole Buffet by email at social.french.english@gmail.com The aim is to establish a regular weekly meeting, where players can come along and enjoy a game on a regular, but informal basis. All you will need to play is a set of three 'boules' (metal balls), however, for new players, spare sets of boules can be made available to use temporarily. It doesn't matter whether you're young or old or whether you're an experienced player or a beginner, everyone will be welcome. So, please contact Nicole for more information or Google ‘Petanque’ to find out more about the game. We look forward to you joining us at the Point Cook Coastal Park and enjoying this terrific game!

In Brief

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REDUCING ANXIETY with Caterina MorrisonAnxiety can be triggered by both psychological and biochemical factors, and while seemingly irrational, is very real for sufferers. NATUROPATH, Caterina Morrison talks on ways to reduce our anxiety.

Biochemical factors such as high lactate levels, are linked to anxiety and as such, reducing lactate should be a priority in therapeutic outcomes.

1. Reducing Lactate Levels can be assisted through six nutritional factors and has been found to assist in reducing the symptoms of anxiety.

I. Avoid/reduce stimulants such as alcohol, caffeine, sugar, and food allergens; (one study of people with generalized anxiety, who drank 1.5-3.5 cups of coffee per day, avoided caffeine for one week, resulting in significant symptom relief).

II. Address deficiencies of B vitamins niacin, pyridoxine, and thiamin.

III. Increase calcium.

IV. Increase magnesium as it is essential in more than 300 biochemical reactions in the body, and a deficiency has been linked to anxiety.

V. Increase Omega-3 Fats. One study found 2.5 grams daily of omega-3 fats produced a 20 percent

reduction in anxiety symptoms. Sources of omega-3 include flaxseed and fish oil, with flaxseed being a vegetarian source.

VI. Increase the following foods in your diet, as they supply valuable minerals, which are depleted by anxiety and stress: apricots, asparagus, avocados, bananas, broccoli, blackstrap molasses, brewer’s yeast, brown rice, dried fruits, dulse, figs, garlic, green leafy veggies, legumes, raw nuts and seeds.

2. Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is a neurotransmitter and low levels are associated with anxiety. Significant anti-stress effects have been shown in clinical studies, utilizing GABA with patients experiencing changes in brain wave patterns, consistent with a state of relaxation.

3. Relaxation techniques such as Progressive Relaxation, Emotional Freedom Technique and Breathing Techniques that target anxiety, are easy to learn and highly effective in reducing anxiety symptoms.

The above is generalized information only. It is recommended to address anxiety under the supervision of a qualified health professional.

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MANAGE ANXIETY IN FIVE STEPSWhat is Anxiety?

Anxiety is commonly described as feelings of worry, nervousness or uneasiness, regarding lack of control over any particular situation.

While everyone experiences stress or worry in some form or another, 'anxiety' is when these feelings stay put for extended periods of time and have some impact on an individual’s ability to function.

Symptoms of Anxiety

Some common symptoms include overthinking, compulsive behavior, hot or cold flushes, increased heartbeats, feelings of tightening in the chest or stomach, sweating and shaking of hands.

Common Causes

Depression and Anxiety sometimes go hand in hand. Other common factors include family history of mental illness, physical health issues, substance use, ongoing stressful situations, such as relationship issues, work related stress, change of jobs or living arrangements, death or loss of a loved one, or experiencing any form of trauma.

THE FIVE STEPS TO MANAGING ANXIETY:

Basic Self Care

Get back to the basics! Eat well, exercise and get enough sleep.

Increased Awareness

Symptoms associated with anxiety can be different for everyone. Be aware of your own symptoms and take action to manage them, before they increase in intensity or frequency.

Manage Adrenaline

There is a surge of adrenaline in the body when a person experiences anxiety, as the brain is preparing the body for fight or flight. Undertaking physical movements will help regulate the adrenaline in your body quicker.

Natural Remedies

Change in food habits and intake of natural supplements can help manage anxiety.

Psychological Treatments

Speak to your GP about your experiences and gain a Mental Health Care Plan to see a Psychologist. Therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and

Acceptance Commitment Therapy

provide individuals with insight into their thought patterns and behaviors, as well as provide them with skills to better manage their symptoms.

Neha Dave

18

18

DONALD DUCK, THE SEA AND ME - (A STORY OF SURVIVAL)

The weather is warming up and thoughts of summer and time at the beach, start coming to mind. Back in the sixties, on warmest summer evenings, it was common for my family just to gather ‘down the beach’. This would include mum and dad, married sisters, brother-in-laws, uncles, aunties and grandchildren. It seemed like in those days, half of Altona was down the beach and of course, everyone knew everyone.

Thoughts turned to ice creams from ‘Camps’, or Hot Chips from the shop. And of course there was the kiosk out the front of the old Life Saving Club, with the Peters Ice Cream sign on the front. This was staffed by life savers and only opened in summer. If the weather didn’t tell you it was summer, then the ‘open’ sign on the front of the kiosk certainly did. This part of Altona only had two seasons - open and shut.

Another part of summer, was the visits to the Beach by the radio stations like 3UZ, 3XY or 3AK. They offered freebies like records, food and drinks, or even live music, and of course live broadcasts. They used to broadcast that they were on their way and it seemed like all of Altona would rush to the beach.

It was thinking of those days that reminded me of the day I nearly drowned.

Mum and Dad had bought me a lovely little floater ring and it had a Donald Duck head on it - they used to come with various character heads on them and I was lucky enough to get Donald! Quack, Quack - at least ducks can swim!

In those days, the pier had a little jetty half way along- it’s gone now.

So one warm summer’s night Dad said, "Here son, try this out," as he pushed Donald, and his ring over me. As he pushed me off the jetty he said, “There you go John, have a swim.” We hit the water, Donald and I, and bobbed up and down with the waves. I was struggling a bit, because my arms were caught in the ring, with my hands flapping madly.

With my wild flapping, Donald all of a sudden broke free, him going one way and me another. I really was struggling - technically I think it’s called drowning.

As I occasionally surfaced I could see Dad on the jetty looking quite anxious and I thought to myself, as my life flashed before my eyes, Dad really does care. Eventually people started to get near me and I thought, ‘I’m going to be saved’ - all this in about a foot of water.

As my saviours almost got to me Dad started yelling, “Don’t save him, save the duck! He cost me three quid!”

The good news was Donald and I survived and while I know where I am, I have no idea what happened to Mr. Duck. So if you are walking along the shore, at Altona Beach, and come across a duck, looking a little down - maybe a bit deflated - it could be Donald. Please stop and say hello, pump him up a bit. Give him my regards and ask him to give me a ring. Perhaps even ask him how much of this little tale, is true!

John Dawson

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19

HOBSONS BAY LIFE ACTIVITIES CLUB HBLAC is part of the Life Activities Club of Victoria, a non for profit community organisation, recognized by Government and the community, as a valuable contributor to the well being of the mature sector of our community.

There are 23 Life Activities Clubs around Victoria.

Members who belong to Hobsons Bay Life Activities Club live in Altona, Altona Meadows, Point Cook, Werribee, Yarraville, Maidstone and Williamstown.

The aim of a Life Activity Club is to form a network to assist people in retirement, or approaching retirement to enjoy a full, healthy, satisfying and connected community life, and to foster and maintain the lifelong well being of all club members, through the provision of a range of social and recreational opportunities.

HBLAC was formed in November 2005, since then the club has held theatre nights, movies nights, mid week and weekend dine outs, coffee mornings, Sunday country pub lunches, BBQ's in parks, as well as beach walks and cycling activities.

Since the club was formed many new friendships have developed. The HBLAC is a club run by members, for the members.

Try us out by attending a couple of functions of your choice, before you decide to join.

For further information and a copy of our Club Newsletter please contact:

hobsonsbay@life.org or Liz 9397 1043

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20

THE MARTIANFlick Chic Reviews

Quickly shaping up to be one of the films of the year, The Martian is everything you want in a film and more.

No stranger to outer space, director Ridley Scott takes us on a journey that is quite literally out of this world.

The always likeable Matt Damon, plays astronaut Mark Watney, one of a team of astronauts, exploring the surface of Mars.

The mission turns south fairly quickly, leaving Watney stranded on the little red planet, with little hope of rescue or survival.

In the face of insurmountable odds, Damon’s Watney utilises a wonderful mix of science, humour and courage to make life on Mars a reality.

What follows is a survival guide with a twist, and it really is quite genius.

With an absolutely stellar support cast, The Martian manages to keep the audience entertained and engaged, even when the action returns to Earth.

This film is funny, intense and thoroughly enthralling from beginning to end.

DO NOT MISS THE MARTIAN!

21

Laugh Out Loud

Adam Eve and the monkeys

A child asked his father, "How were people born?"

So his father said, "Adam and Eve made babies, then their babies became adults and made babies, and so on."

The child then went to his mother, asked her the same question and she told him, "We were monkeys then we evolved to become like we are now."

The child ran back to his father and said, "You lied to me!"

His father replied, "No, your mom was talking about her side of the family."

Forgetful

After an elderly couple starts getting forgetful, they visit their doctor. Their doctor tells them that many people find it useful to write themselves little notes.

When they get home, the wife says, "Dear, will you please go to the kitchen and get me a dish of ice cream? And maybe write that down so you won't forget?" "Nonsense," says the husband. "I can remember a dish of ice cream."

"Well, I'd also like some strawberries and whipped cream on it," the wife replies. "My memory's not all that bad," says the husband.

"No problem -- a dish of ice cream with strawberries and whipped cream. I don't need to write it down."

He goes into the kitchen, and his wife hears pots and pans banging. The husband finally emerges from the kitchen and presents his wife with a plate of bacon and eggs.

She looks at the plate and asks, "Hey, where's the toast I asked for?"

22

SPRINGTIME IN MELBOURNE

Spring is a wonderful timeOf renewal and rebirth.

Down here in our southern climeIs like nowhere else on Earth.

Here in marvellous Melbourne,Metropolis of the south,Nature is being reborn:

This news spread by word of mouth.

Birds proclaim it in their trees;The bees are making honey.

Have some fun, Nature decrees:For that you don’t need money.

There’s footy finals fever,Fans full of expectation.

‘Twill be history come NovemberWhen a horse race stops the nation.

There’s nothing like Melbourne’s spring,The Garden State’s capital.

If outdoor living’s your thing,It is here you’ll have a ball.

There’s surely plenty to do:Picnics in an urban park,

Or a visit to the zoo;A harbour cruise; that’s a lark.

You can fill up idle hoursBy seeing wonderful sights;

But take time to smell the flowers.Melbourne has balmy Spring nights.

Wherever you happen to be,There is lots of activity.Go to Altona by the sea,

Nice part of this friendly city.

Jack Nystrom

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Hoppers Xing kids

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

Hi Kids, This month we have a fantastic treat. Here is a fiction story written by a young writer, Ahmad Babar. Ahmad began writing when he was in grade one. He also writes poetry and started writing, because he was inspired by a teacher at school. I hope you enjoy his story. KJ

The CHILDREN’s WEEK PICNIC at Werribee Park

It starts at 10 - turn off the TV, Grab Mum, Dad, Grandpa and Aunty,

Leaning forward against the thrust of blades in the water, Leprolio began to row softly out the harbour. Sontinato, his wife, stood there sobbing as his vibrant blue eyes faded away into the subfusc ripples of the water. She watched after his zille,

covered in fresh petals of Guzmania, as it eventually turned into tiny slices and then disappeared into the dawn mist. She headed back to her shack’s open door. Their nest was well organized with two beds, a small stove in the middle with charcoal, and a long driftwood plank as a table.

Meanwhile, Leprolio was rowing softly. His zille was now convenient for exploring instead of roaming the sandy banks of Armona Island, Portugal. He was calm and let the gentle breeze comb his hair. He thought there must be a blessing in that gentle dawn’s breeze, although he’d rowed until afternoon with not even a single sign of a truly big fish. He’d caught a few albacores and tuna and that was it.

He sighed and tied the long, thin fishing line to his toe and took a nap. He dreamed of the time when there were no sorrows and when Mantono, their pet ring-neck parrot was with them; when they had shared love, laughter and joy. Suddenly, the line gave him a yank, as it pushed him off the thwart and onto the bow of the zille. Being a seasoned fisherman, Leprolio knew that a few fathoms below, a greedy Marlin had caught his bait. One hand, then the other pulled the line. It was heavy and he tugged and heaved, until a bright blue Striped Marlin breached out of the water. Leprolio was surprised, but after a few years he gave a proper smile.

For now, he rowed back to Armona with the Marlin tied at the stern of his zille. As soon as he reached his shack, he grabbed his gaff and hooked the oversized fish onto the bank. It was like an angel - a light at the end of the tunnel, meant for them. He beamed and upon return to his shack swung Sontinato around and danced. It wasn’t long after that, only a year or so, when God granted them with a gift - a baby boy who they named Peixe Grande (Big Fish) in honour of the Marlin, who’d blessed them that day with hope.

Peixe Grande

By Ahmad BABAR

24 Please redistribute rather than discard.