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Issue 35 January 2016

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

11 14 20page THE FORCE

AWAKENS page pageKEEPING YOUR

PETS COOL THIS SUMMER

Behind every good cricket club is a great bunch of mums, wives and girlfriends, who support their cricketers.

On pink stumps day, it’s all about supporting these beautiful women.

Manor Lakes Cricket Club (MLCC) is stepping up to the crease to host Pink Stumps Day on Saturday the 20th February 2016, to show their support for a great cause.

MLCC will be putting on a big breakfast from 8am.

The Under 11a’s will kick off the day with a match against Wyndham Vale.

There will be fun and games for everyone; a trailer raffle drawn at 12:45, a senior cricket match against Altona Sports and a sausage sizzle at Howqua Way Reserve, Manor Lakes.

Over the past five years, thousands of teams from across Australia have come together to play and fundraise over 4.5 million dollars for the McGrath Foundation.

PINK STUMPS DAY: The Battle Between Altona

and Manor Lakes Continues!

THE KOOKABURRA FESTIVAL

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FROM THE EDITOR2016 – what will you hold for me?

2015 was a great year!

I have been on such a journey over the last four years and I have to admit that there were times, where I wondered if I would ever find that elusive Happiness that I had been in pursuit of for so long.

Well 2015 finally delivered on so many levels and I look forward now, with a renewed hope that I haven’t felt for a very long time.

So what is the key to my success??

Mostly I think I have just never given up on the idea that I deserve to be happy. We all deserve that, and I hope that my happiness is rubbing off on the people around me. Happiness is the best kind of thing to spread, so do it whenever you can!

There is plenty of talk this month about New Year’s Resolutions, and I am pretty good at keeping mine. The trick I think, is to sort out what really matters to you and create

achievable goals that relate to that - passion is the key to all success I think.

My goals for the year ahead are pretty obvious ones – clean living, kindness to others, teaching my daughter to be selfless and loving. And from a professional perspective, I hope to see the papers continue to grow and succeed, so that we can bring you the very best that we can.

Hopefully 2016 will see all our hopes and dreams come true! Keep on being positive and keep on believing that you are worth it, because only you can determine your true value in this life.

Happy New Year and Thanks in Advance,

Melissa Longo

PUDDLING WITH THE PUBLISHERI had a call today which I found to be quite interesting.

The caller - a local gentleman from Hoppers Crossing, told me he was most distressed by the number of car drivers throwing lit cigarettes from the window of the car as they drove along the road. So he rang the police and they asked him is he had taken the car registration number so they could take some action. ‘No,’ he said, ‘I was too busy driving my car!’

Frustrated, he rang the Fire Brigade, who told him it was Police business and they couldn’t help, but encouraged him to continue to do something about it, so he rang me.

I wondered how I could help him. So I said, ‘do you have an email address?’ ‘No’ he replied, so I said ‘I’ll give you one!’ ‘How can you do that?’ ‘Easily!’ I said, ‘Give me a name, being not your own…’ ‘Frank’ he said. ‘Now give me a surname’ ‘I can’t think of one…’ he said, so I suggested ‘Vernon’ and he agreed, so I told him that he now had an email address.

‘But I don’t have a computer’ he said.

‘You don’t need one’ I said, ‘Go along to your local library and tell them your new email address is ‘Frank Vernon @

gmail.com’ and they will set you up, so you can go there and send and receive emails. If you decide you need a computer of your own, one of our advertisers, the Altona Mens Shed, offers free computers.’

‘What then?’ he said.

‘I’ll write this story and run it in the paper and if any community minded person wants to help you, in your campaign to stop these idiots throwing lit cigarette butts out the car window, endangering thousands of hectares of dry grass, then suddenly your ‘power of one’ might become the ’power of two’, or even go viral!’

In which case ‘Frank’ might come out of the closet and get a new email address like ………...@gmail.com

Advertising enquiries: Daniel 0408 659 940

aroundsell@gmail.comWill 0449 834 359

will@aroundhopperscrossing.comLouise 0403 191 084

ml.goegan@gmail.com 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

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Last year Altona Sports hosted the event and this year the tradition continues at Howqua Way Reserve.

The rivalry lives on and the victor remains to be seen, but regardless of the outcome, the real winner will be the McGrath Foundation.

MLCC’s goal is to raise a tremendous amount of money, to create awareness in our community.

MLCC’s major partner Jubilee Estate will be generously donating a major prize for the trailer raffle.

The 6 x 4 heavy-duty trailer, donated by Lee Jay Trailers will be filled with some amazing prizes from local businesses and the Winner really will take it all! Second and third prizes are $100 and $50 cash prizes respectively.

MLCC will be down at Bunnings in Hoppers Crossing on Friday the 22nd January, 2016 running a sausage sizzle and selling raffle tickets.

The funds raised will help place McGrath Breast Care Nurses in communities across Australia, as well as increase breast cancer awareness in young women.

If you are interested in donating and cannot attend on the 20th February,

head to the following website:

http://pinkstumpsday2016.gofundraise.com.au/page/manorlakescc

All donations are greatly appreciated!

For more information, visit the MLCC Pink Stumps day Facebook page at:

https://m.facebook.com/mlccpinkstumpsday/ ?ref=bookmarks

Cassie Brooks

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 ml.goegan@gmail.com

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Resolve to EngageOf all the resolutions we might have for 2016, there’s one that is guaranteed to impact the coming year. Taking on one, two or many opportunities to engage in the community might be surprising.Meeting people isn’t in everyone’s comfort zone and yet we do this, every time we go about the simplest of tasks, like shopping. Our community centres are packed with activities and groups, and there is something for every age and stage – walking, gardening, crafting, cooking, children’s playgroups. You don’t have to decide the moment you visit. Why not just check out a few and try out one or two activities? Chances are you’ll meet some like-minded people.Glen Orden Sports Club (53-57 Kookaburra Avenue, Werribee), is holding the Kookaburra Festival on Saturday 23 January from 12pm – 5pm. It’s a free afternoon of music, workshops, food and an animal farm for the little ones.The Jeep Ladies Day at the Polo is on Saturday 20 February, at Werribee Park Mansion from 12m – 5pm. $10 from every ticket sold is donated to the Breast Cancer Network Australia. Build your muscles or just enjoy the benefits of movement – the mind and body health benefits are well documented. You could join a cycling group such as Wyndham Cycling (www.wyndhamcycling.com), which holds regular organised rides. Wyndham’s new Leisure Centre Aquapulse at 80-82 Derrimut Road, Hoppers Crossing, caters for exercise and water-play. The new Eagle Stadium is the place for basketball, netball, volleyball and table tennis. Your brain is like a muscle too – it gets stronger as you exercise it. Our libraries are packed with information in every form, on every topic imaginable. And there are plenty of opportunities to create:Entries for the Ada Cambridge Prize at Williamstown Literary Festival, close on Tuesday 8 March 2016.The prizes are open to any writers and poets who live, work or study in the western suburbs of Melbourne. The competitions offer publication and $2000 in prize money:1. The Ada Cambridge Biographical Prose Prize – $1,0002. The Ada Cambridge Poetry Prize – $5003. The Young Ada Short Story Prize – $250 4. The Young Ada Graphic Short Story Prize - $250 The winners will be announced at the Williamstown Literary Festival, 17 and 18 June 2016. Conditions of entry can be found at www.willylitfest.org.au or http://libraries.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/Entries for the Altona Beach Film Festival are closed 30th June 2016, with the Festival on the 20th August

2016. The 2015 theme was Waves. Visit http://www.altonabeachfilmfestival.com.au for more information.Both festivals are also calling out for volunteers – another great way to engage.Be a tourist at home. Event information is available at the library, or check out the notice boards at the supermarket or local café. Resolve to enjoy each day and 2016 is bound to be a great year!Here is a list of centres in our area:• Arndell Park Community Centre, 29-49 Federation Blvd, Truganina.• Featherbrook Community Centre, 33 – 35 Windorah Drive, Point Cook.• Grange Community Centre, 260-280 Hogans Road, Hoppers Crossing.• Iramoo Community Centre, 84 Honour Avenue, Wyndham Vale.• Jamieson Way Community Centre, 59 Jamieson Way, Point Cook.• Penrose Promenade Community Centre, 83 Penrose Promenade, Tarneit.• Point Cook Community Centre, 1-21 Cheetham Street, Point Cook.• Quantin Binnah Community Centre, 61 Thames Boulevard, Werribee.• Saltwater Community Centre, 153 Saltwater Promenade, Point Cook.• Tarneit Community Learning Centre, 150 Sunset Views Boulevard, Tarneit.• Wyndham Community & Education Centre, 3 Princes Highway, Werribee.• Wyndham Park Community Centre, 55 - 57 Kookaburra Avenue, Werribee.• Wyndham Vale Community Learning Centre, Cnr Manor Lakes Bld & Howqua Way, Wyndham Vale.

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MAKING THE MOST OF 2016!Happy New Year everyone! As the New Year commences, many individuals make lists of things they want to achieve, change and give up this year. Make a goal for each area of your life. Here are some easy ways to ensure you get what you aim for this year:

• Be Realistic - Set realistic, achievable goals and yet challenge yourself, to avoid feeling stagnant. Look at research, past attempts and any other factors that would impact your success rate.

• Visual Cues - Grab a pretty, (big) piece of paper, write the goals down and stick it where you can see it a few times a day. Regular reminders can help one make conscious choices throughout the day :)

• Announce it! - Sometimes it is helpful to declare your intentions to those close to you in your daily lives, or someone close to you. Your commitment towards change appears more real, if you feel you have people watching you follow through.

• Cheerleaders - Gather your support crew - friends, family, health professionals and children (if applicable) to watch you, encourage you and keep you in check throughout the year. Find individuals with similar goals as you if possible, for further support.

• Regular Review - Have a fortnightly date with yourself (or others), to assess how you are travelling towards your goals and if you can do anything more effectively. Set a reminder in your calendar to repeat itself, so you don't have to think about it.

• Rewards - Recognise small victories that help achieve the big goal and reward yourself with recognition in any form.

Good Luck and let this New Year be your year once again!

Neha DaveRegistered Psychologist, MAPSwww.nehadave.com

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THINKING ABOVE THE LINE……… NEW YEAR, NEW YOU!!!

A New Year is always the chance of Huge Possibility.

Leading NATUROPATH, Caterina Morrison writes how you can use this period to your advantage with thinking ‘above the line’.

I’ve long been a fan of January. To me the start of every year means one thing - Possibility.

Like a blank, shiny new page, it’s the ideal time to stop, reassess where you are, with the ability of transformation looming.

A time of new beginnings - New Year, New You!!!

I’d like to introduce you to a thought strategy that you can apply, that will have major ramifications in improving your life.

It’s called thinking above or below the line. As individuals we have 60,000 thoughts per day. 90% of those are the same as the day before. If the thoughts are positive they become resourceful to you. However, if these thoughts are destructive, negative, belittling, where does that leave you?

“We can complain because rose bushes have thorns, or rejoice because thorn bushes have roses.”

― Abraham Lincoln

‘Below the line’ thinking refers to a mindset that shapes how you perceive the world in a limiting way. It leads to you believing that what’s happening to

you is outside your control and everyone else’s fault – the economy, your industry, your boss, your spouse, etc. ‘Below the line’ thinking says, ‘It’s not fair what’s happening, and I don’t have what it takes to overcome these challenges.’ The power is external.

‘Above the line’ thinking, on the other hand, says, ‘I’m accountable for my life, my career, my choices, my results and I have what it takes to navigate through this successfully. If I fail, I’ll still wake up tomorrow to exactly who I am, and will have learned something critical.’

Are you a victim or victor?

Laying blame is far too common for individuals. It shows that they are not willing to be accountable or responsible for their actions. Excuses don’t solve the issues either, nor promote responsibility. They usually cause frustration.

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With denial we are committing yet another ‘below the line’ action - ‘I didn’t do it.’ This obviously ineffective response can create certain frustration in others and make us appear unreliable and dishonest.

Yes, victims let things happen to them; they do not take control, are pessimistic and find reasons as to why not, and always appear tired and stressed. When you sit back and accept things that happen to you, you are allowing the circumstances of life to control you, rather than taking control of what circumstances come in and out of your life.

By choosing to act ‘above the line’ you are taking responsibility and control for your performance and showing you have the ability to be responsible for your own life, business, or career in your current situation. It is a powerful skill. When you take action, you make life happen for you - not to you!

Transformation within the New Year? Try this strategy. With every thought, every action, draw that mental line and ask yourself, ‘Am I living Above the line, or Below the line?’ With every negative thought, replace it with five positive thoughts about yourself or the situation.

When you invest time in the strategy to change yourself, the dominant thought becomes resourceful, metamorphosing into a New Year, A New You.

For more health Insights:

Like Facebook page: Caterina Morrison, BHSC,

Naturopath, Health and Wellbeing Expert.

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MURAL OF AN AUSTRALIAN LANDSCAPE

Dedicated to my families in far north Queensland….

There is a chill in the night air. The dark velvet sky

is crowded with sparkling diamond stars. Silence envelops the broad canvas of this piece of Australia’s outback.

Time appears to stand still, waiting, listening, anticipating the brushstrokes of vermilion red that will splash across the horizon as life stirs at the birth of another day.

The earliest sun’s rays highlight an assortment of shapes that slowly create a kaleidoscope of movement and shadows, as cattle stir. Overhead, in the extravaganza of bush foliage, flocks of winged creatures dance through the haze and dart to procure breakfast, warbling their joy for a new day.

Soon dark silhouettes emerge like moths from a cocoon, snaking a course across the blankness, silently

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performing daily routines that initiate a succession of tasks completed simply and rhythmically.

The sun rises. The air heats. The morning glare reveals sunburnt ground, bare of all but straggly bunches of dry grass, bristling like a drover’s beard. Tired eyes search the sky for a sign that could spell rain, a break from the debilitating drought. No sign.

A sigh and the day continues. Listless cattle scribble lines through the red soil, sending clouds of dust to irritate eyes and mouths of the figures slouched against grey timber rails, contemplating the long arduous ride that lies ahead this day. Mustering. Soon more figures on horseback, mottled colours of brown, black and grey, emerge as brushstrokes across the canvas, from the shadowy confines of the trees, and join the team. They soon become silhouettes across the horizon, the colours of their mounts, the cattle and the dust, merging into a dusty haze under the harsh burning yellow sun.

This landscape …. so familiar, so precious, so terrifying. Drought has washed its colours to a pale image of the rich green, red and gold and azure blue

brightness that epitomises Australia. Carcasses lay strewn across bare ground, starved by drought, as birds swoop and squabble to wrench what sustenance they can from the dried white and grey bones from which life has fled.

Men and cattle meander across the desert-like land as the sun, finally exhausted from its blazing, sinks, splashing the world with pastel blue, pink and yellow before tipping its brilliant red across the vast horizon.

Like a wasted empty painter’s palette, colours slowly dissipate and are gone, replaced by the deep blue velvet sky that welcomes every dazzling star. The dark silhouettes return silently, scuffing through the glistening white sand of the dry riverbed under the faint light of a slender moon.

The artist’s brush is stilled. Nothing stirs. Night blankets all and the mural is complete.

Judy Williams

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Every year we make New Year's resolutions. Many resolve to exercise or learn a language. Some want to study or meet new people, while others want to complete jobs on their to-do list, like cleaning out the pantry.

I'm a Resolutioner from way back. I've made many. Spending more time with family and less money on stuff I don't need was popular, as was trying new things - like cooking. Checking pockets before pressing play on the washing machine, made it in one year and resisting the urge to colour-coordinate my pegs is always a favourite. But this year is different.

A recent light bulb moment made me realise that parents spend so much time nurturing their children, encouraging them to dream and be whatever they desire, more often than not they forget about themselves. It's not premeditated, it just happens.

So this New Year it's not really a resolution I'm

making, but a revelation I intend to address. And that is to follow my heart. You see, for many years my heart has been drawn to writing. Among other things I initiated a kindergarten newsletter, for years I've written an annual Christmas letter (yes, I still do it the old-fashioned way), and penned a journal which morphed into a blog. Now, I find myself here with you. I love that my words have the ability to reach so many people, but the one thing I hope is that when you read them, you realise you're not alone. No matter how many mistakes you make or parental fails you have, as long as you keep trying and follow your heart, that's all anyone can ever ask.

And that is the kind of New Year's Revelation I should have had years ago xx

Dee Simpson

You can also join me at http://comejoindee.com/

NEW YEAR’S REVELATION

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If you are a part of the 1% of people that have no interest in Star Wars, ‘Move along, there is nothing to see here…’

Now for the rest of you…

Star Wars is back and it is a glorious thing!

I grew up watching Luke Skywalker discover the Force, Princess Leia trade witty banter with Han Solo, and fantastical creatures such as Chewbacca, Yoda and the feisty little Ewoks, who were just as real to me as any of the humans up on the screen.

I was instantly hooked by this captivating saga and my love for it has never waned.

There was that period back in the late 90’s/00’s where the saga made a less than favourable return to our screens, but for the purposes of remaining positive, lets not discuss that any further.

So how does Episode VII fare, in comparison to it’s original predecessors? It fares brilliantly!

J.J Abrams picks up proceedings 30 years after Episode VI. A whole new galaxy of characters awaits us, but all the nostalgia of the original trilogy is not forgotten. In fact, the old is blended with the new so seamlessly, it never feels forced or out of place.

I refuse to ruin anything for you with spoilers or plot reveals of any kind, but needless to say, this film is everything it should be and more, in my opinion.

The action is fast-paced, but low on CGI effects, giving the film a very old-fashioned, authentic feel. The casting is spot on with new-comers Daisy Ridley, John Boyega,

Oscar Isaac and Adam Driver more than holding their own up against the likes of original cast members, Harrison Ford and Carrie Fisher.

The film is just brimming with Easter Eggs – little nods to the originals, just ready to be discovered by hard-core fans. John Williams once again sets the tone of the film, with a musical score that tugs at the heart-strings and raises the hair on the back of your neck, as if on cue.

All in all, this is an exercise in pure movie magic! You know I love to watch movies and I spent every minute of this film, leaning forward in my seat with a look of absolute awe on my face. Visually stunning, completely entertaining and filled with ‘A New Hope’ for this once flawless franchise – the Force is well and truly Awake and I cannot wait for what comes next!

Melissa Longo

THE FORCE AWAKENSFlick Chic Reviews….

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December is the month when the International Day for People with Disabilities (IDPWD) is celebrated all over the world. I had an opportunity to watch the Mambourin Enterprises Expressive Arts group perform not too long ago, at the Wyndham Cultural Centre, to celebrate IDPWD. The Expressive Arts group is composed of clients, who attend the various activities and programs that Mambourin offer. This group’s most recent performance, was a play telling the tale of sporting furry ‘wannabees’ and their quest to take part in the up and coming Pet Olympics.

The play for me was unique, because all the actors were individuals with disabilities. They could act, sing, and were brave enough to perform in front of an audience composed of their families, friends and members of the general public. They were so delightful to see, depicting pets, or animal contestants from all over Australia, that congregated in the fictional town of ‘Whatchamacallit’, that hosted the 2015 event.

Wearing the appropriate animal costumes and giving their best throughout the two performances, the performers were people who did extra-ordinary things. The play came with a proper script and storyline, fantastic costumes, backdrops, props and music/sound effects. They were all professional in their performance. I was very impressed and would like to congratulate everyone involved in the production.

My experience watching this play led me to reflect upon how we in our everyday existence, maximise our available opportunities and time. I could just imagine the gruelling hours spent by the arts group members rehearsing, perfecting their lines and their movements and being ‘in the zone’ for the

characters they were playing. They had collectively set aside any difficulties they may face in everyday life, and in doing so, expressed themselves freely and artistically. The performance has inspired me to get in touch with my inner self! For this New Year, as a potential New Year’s Resolution I want to engage in an activity which is not routine. How can we be in touch with our inner self? We can start by doing some meditation activities, increasing our ‘quiet times,’ or by discovering new passions and hobbies of interest, such as engaging more with art by visiting exhibitions, watching performances, reading books and a whole lot more. The options are endless.

Why not join me? This is a good time to start, as it will set the bar for a better, more fulfilled 2016. Take what the Expressive Arts group did - they proved that disability is not a barrier for living life to its fullest and getting in touch with their inner selves through performing arts.

Mimi Laurilla

DISCOVERING YOUR INNER SELF THROUGH VISUAL AND PERFORMING ARTS

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AROUND APOLLO BAY

One of the biggest advantages of living in the Western Suburbs (and there are many), is its proximity to the beautiful Great Ocean Road and the lovely coastal towns along the way.

One such town, Apollo Bay, is perfectly positioned for those who enjoy exploring their surrounds. An hour and a half further along are The Twelve Apostles, (currently nine are standing), and Port Campbell, (which is not far from the Apostles), is a scenic dream come true.

A 10-minute drive, followed by a 10-minute walk from Apollo Bay, is Carisbrook Falls, the tallest waterfall in the Otways. Another 15 minutes drive further is a little place you could miss if you blink: Kennett River.

Native fauna and flora abound, kookaburra’s perch on the cafes railing, allowing tourists to snap selfies with them, while cockatoos and parrots vie for the attention of the two legged beings giving out bird seed. Along the Kennett River, there are more koalas in the trees than birds!

At one stage three of us were pointing excitedly at the koala in the tree, only to realize that this tree was a koala camp, and we were pointing at three different koalas in different parts of the huge old gum tree.

Natural beauty abounds as much as the koalas do; majestic ferns, in a forest as beautiful as any rainforest.

On the other side of Kennett River, people have made their mark on the beach. Someone popped stones on top of each other, to create their own cairn, and all and sundry followed suit, resulting in an unusual

and interesting sight.

Like with the kookaburras, folk stop to take selfies with these piles of stones.

This craze is occurring in the high country as well, where there are concerns moving so many stones/rocks, may result in increased ground erosion.

Also, the high country is a place of wilderness - stumbling across piles of manmade cairns can abruptly end the feeling of being alone and on the top of the world.

Here at Kennett River, though, on the Great Ocean Road, one doesn’t expect to be alone, and even though the stones/rocks are being displaced, there are still layers upon layers of them on the beach.

The climate would be more of a concern to erosion here, than the moving of stones.

In Apollo Bay itself there is much to see and do for those who wish to arrive at their holiday destination and leave the car motionless. There are walks, shops and rock walls, however all of these are a story for another time.

Around Apollo Bay - two and a half hours from the western suburbs - kookas and stone piles to pose with, birds to feed and photograph, waterfalls to watch, forests to explore, and koalas to admire – what more could you ask for?

Jenny Bates

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Pets Page KEEPING YOUR PETS COOL THIS SUMMER

As the temperature rises this Summer, it is important to consider how our pets are coping with the heat. Pets, like us, can suffer heatstroke too!

Ensure to keep your pets well hydrated by having fresh water available for them at all times. If you know that there is going to be a really hot day, make sure to place multiple water bowls out for them in the shade. Adding a few ice cubes into the water bowls, or even freezing some treats can help to keep their body temperature down.

It is ideal to consider bringing your pets inside on really hot days, however, if this is not possible, always make sure to provide a shady area. If they cannot be in an air-conditioned area, consider having a fan where they spend most of their time. For pets outdoors during the day, sunscreen can help to prevent them from getting sunburnt.

If your dog or cat has long hair, grooming them regularly over Summer can help them stay cool. Supplying pets with paddling or clam shell pools, filled with water can also be beneficial so they are able to hop in, to cool down throughout the day.

Make sure to only exercise early in the morning or the late evening when it is cooler, and avoid walking

on really hot days. It is also important to never leave your pet enclosed in a car during Summer, as this can be extremely harmful, or even fatal.

Be sure to seek veterinary attention as soon as possible if you suspect your pet is suffering from heatstroke; signs include, excessive panting, drooling, increased thirst, lethargy, high temperature, vomiting, diarrhoea and in extreme cases, seizure.

Ensure both you and your pets play it cool this Summer, and most of all, stay safe!

Cindy BremnerNatural Pawfection- Animal Naturopath0421-446-764

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THIS MONTH IN 1882.Colac Herald, Tuesday 24th January 1882

THE WERRIBEE PARK PICNIC. Among the many attempts being made by our Victorian capitalists to revive in this colony the institutions of the mother country, we may include the monster gatherings of the people of a whole district, which have been so successfully carried out by Mr Chirnside, of Werribee Park. The fete was held by Mr. Thomas Chirnside, to celebrate his return from Europe.

The invitation was extended to residents of Wyndham Shire and the employees of Mr Chirnside, and a number of friends. The weather could not have been more delightful, and brought out visitors from all parts of the shire. Many of them drove from ten to twenty miles, while others went by rail, the special train from Melbourne taking about 150.

The picnic was held in a plantation skirting the deer-park, on the Bay side of the mansion. A large space on the ground sheltered by trees was covered with tarpaulins and tablecloths, on which eatables of all kinds were laid in abundance. The covered space was about seventy yards long by thirty yards wide, from which it is estimated that there were about 1200 persons present.

Dinner over, the party left the plantation to engage in various amusements provided in the adjoining

paddocks. Here a merry-go-round was kept in continual motion all the afternoon. The Punch and Judy show created much amusement, and Aunt Sally and other games were also played at. Dancing was carried out on the grass, to the music of eight excellent musicians. Among the active sports were foot races and the tug of war. Pigeon shooting was pursued with much vigor, and one of the most interesting amusements was the tilting at the ring. In this game four posts, with cross-heads, were placed in a circle of 300 yards circumference, round which the competitors galloped their horses, pointing with a single stick, at rings suspended from the posts, four minutes being the time allowed, the person bringing in the most rings to win.

A large number visited the mansion, and were shown through it by the butler in small parties. A number of curiosities, such as leopard and lion skins, ivory tusks, and antlers; brought by Mr. Chirnside on his return from an African tour, attracted much attention.

At 7 o'clock, dancing was commenced in a large room in the old residence. About 300 remained, and danced with great spirit till midnight. The utmost good humor and order prevailed throughout the day, and the visitors seemed to enjoy their outing thoroughly.

Greg Milne

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Ovenu Oven Cleaning & Detailing Service was established in the UK around 40 years ago and has been in Australia since 1994.

Initially, Ovenu’s representation was exclusive to Perth and Brisbane, however the company has now emerged in Melbourne, expanding from having one representative in early 2014, to its current compliment of eight cleaning technicians.

After investigating a number of Oven Cleaning franchise opportunities, Ken Haining was won over by the results obtained, using non caustic and bio degradable materials, which is Ovenu’s hallmark.

“I had done a fair amount of research before finally choosing to investigate Ovenu’s services.

The day I spent on the road with the State Manager was an eye opener.

I thought to myself, there is no way known that this oven can be cleaned.

Three hours later I was absolutely amazed with the results - the oven looked brand new!

It was at that moment I knew this was a business worth pursuing.”

After spending his working life in Banking and Hospitality, Ken was looking for an opportunity to do something different and work for himself.

“The challenge to me, was not administering a small

business, I have plenty of experience doing that, it was more about setting myself personal goals, being disciplined in working as hard as I can and interacting on a daily basis with different clients.”

“I never tire of seeing a client’s reaction at the completion of a job. Amazement and pure delight encapsulates the reaction.”

Ken joined the Ovenu team in May 2015 and services Melbourne’s west, outer west, Geelong, Bellarine Peninsula, Ballarat and surrounds, along the Western Highway.

Having lived in Hobsons Bay and Wyndham areas for his entire life, Ken had no hesitation in selecting these locations, as his exclusive area.

Ken’s work load has increased enormously in recent months, “I have been flat out for the last three months through web site enquiries, local adverting and word of mouth recommendations.

Everybody wants their cooking appliances cleaned before Christmas / New Year.

I would have thought that their appliances would have been in more need of my cleaning and detailing services after the festive season, but I take the work when it presents.”

Contact Ken, through Ovenu’s website, www.ovenu.com.au or phone the free phone

number 1300 683 681 (1300 OVENU 1)

OVENU OVEN CLEANING & DETAILING SERVICE

Ugly babyA woman gets on a bus with her baby. The bus driver says, "That's the ugliest baby that I've ever seen. Ugh!" The woman goes to the rear of the bus and sits down, fuming. She says to a man next to her, "The driver just insulted me!" The man says, "You go right up there and tell him off – go ahead, I'll hold your monkey for you."

Mother-in-lawTwo cannibals are eating dinner and one says, "I hate my mother-in-law." The other replies, "Well, just eat your noodles, then."

What To Do With 5 Penguins In The CarA man drives into a gas station. The attendant goes to fill his tank and notices 5 penguins in the back seat. The attendant says, "Hey - why do you have 5 penguins in your car?"

The driver says, "I KNOW! I was just stopped at a light back there and they climbed into my car and now I don't know what to do!"

The attendant thinks for a second and says, "I'll tell you what I'd do - I'd take them to the zoo."

The driver says, "That's a good idea - I'll do that!"

A week later the driver pulls into the gas station and the attendant sees the same 5 penguins, only now they're wearing sunglasses. The attendant asks, "What are you doing?! I thought I told you to take those penguins to the zoo!"

"We did go! We had a great time! Today we're going to the beach!"

Laugh Out Loud

18

ETERNAL TRUTHS

Whatever goes up must come down;You will reap whatever you sow;

The Earth isn’t flat: it’s sort of round;And after today comes tomorrow.

A square peg won’t fit a round hole;What goes around comes around;

A horse’s child is called a foal;And decibels are the units of sound.

Water and oil simply don’t mix;Two is company, three’s a crowd;

Without straw you cannot make bricks;And a silver lining has every cloud.

Said John Donne, “No man is an island,We are all a part of the main”;

Happy holidays are those well planned;And drought’s the long absence of rain.

Time flies: it will wait for no man;You can’t stop the incoming tide;Very rich in fibre is wheat bran;And the vice of a fool, is pride.

The Sun always rises in the East;A very hot place is Mercury;Enough, is as good as a feast;

And vindaloo’s a fine hot curry.

East and West shall never meet,Said the poet Rudyard Kipling;

Avoid kitchens if you can’t stand heat;And winning’s better than losing.

Red means “Stop!” and green signals, “Go!”,While white means truce or surrender;

The poltroon’s colour is yellow;And God’s country is Down-Under.

A stitch in time will save you nine;Three into two simply won’t go;

‘Tain’t real poetry if it don’t rhyme;And the opposite of “Yes” is “No”.

Jack Nystrom, 23.5.2015

19

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

Hoppers Xing kids

Hi Kids,HAPPY NEW YEAR!

And, what an action-packed year 2016 will be. To kick you off, I’ve compiled a ‘What’s On’ list, full of activities and events available over the summer holidays. Some are around your local community, while others are further afield. So, get your family’s groove on, or get together with some pals to check these out:

KJ’s List1. See Snoopy and Charlie Brown: The Peanuts movie. Showing at Village Cinema, Pacific Werribee – Release Date: 1 Jan.2. Dance at Rhythm of Africa, at Werribee Open Range Zoo: Every Sat from 9 Jan – 27 Feb, 4.30pm – 8.30pm.3. Learn how to be a Keeper for a Day at Werribee Open Range Zoo: Year 7-12 students. For details, go to http://www.zoo.org.au/summer 4. Relax at the FREE Kids’ Movie Night at Point Cook Library: Wed, 6 Jan, 6 pm. To book, go to http://www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/libraries/kids5. Join the Summer Reading Club and win prizes.

For details, go to http://www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/libraries/kids 6. Make a Super-Hero Cape at Point Cook Library: Wed, 13 Jan, 11am. Bookings required.7. Hang out at Aquapulse for the morning, afternoon, or day! 8. Bounce for hours at the Airodrome Trampoline Park, Altona.9. Go on a Teen Excursion. 1. Adventure Park on Wed, 13 Jan, 10am – 4pm.

2. Pancake Parlour on Mon, 18 Jan, 6pm – 9pm. For details, go to http://youth.wyndham.vic.gov.au/10. Catch a ‘Very Curly Musical Tale’ at the Arts Centre, Melbourne. The 3 Little Pigs is showing from 2 – 17 Jan.

Have Fun, Stay Cool, and most of all - Be You!KJ Rajah

Hi Kids,

20 Please redistribute rather than discard.

KOOKABURRA FESTIVAL ACTIVATESThe Glen Orden/Heathdale Community, WyndhamTo celebrate our diverse community and natural environment, the Wyndham Park Community Hub partners will be hosting the first Kookaburra Festival in Kookaburra Avenue, Werribee. The Festival will bring together the local community for an afternoon of music, performance, food, art, workshops, stalls and an animal farm. It will be a great day for the whole family.

The Festival will run between 12noon and 5pm on Saturday 23rd January 2016, located next to the Glen Orden Sports Pavilion and the Wyndham Park Community Shed, 53 – 57 Kookaburra Ave, Werribee, and also spreading onto the Heathdale Reserve.

The Kookaburra Festival will include an art competition, with prizes for selected participants. There will also be a large Kookaburra puppet to assist with the opening and closing ceremony on the day.

The community stage will feature local musicians and dance groups. The Melbourne Bengali Association will provide Indian food and the Glen Orden Sports Club will provide a sausage sizzle. All the scheduled activities and food will be freely available, making this a truly accessible community event.

The Festival will also include community information stalls, hands on art and gardening

activities, guided nature walks and some local traders.

Over the next month, Festival organisers will continue to liaise with interested community groups to get them involved in this festive day.

For further information, please contact: James Dredge, Community Development Officer, on 8742 6448 or james@wyndhamparkcc.com.au