ISSUE 176 AUTUMN 2017
THE NORTH & WEST MELBOURNE NEWS IS PRODUCED BY VOLUNTEERS AT THE CENTRE Homelessness crisis divides the city
Protesters rally against proposed changes to public camping by-laws before the council meeting Photo: Brianna Faye Lugg
Brianna Faye Lugg in the city. Asked how he looks after his computer and Mission indicate over 102,000 Victorians were Across the river from the manicured pave- sound equipment, David explains: “There are assisted by specialised homelessness agencies ments and waterfront restaurants on Southbank some places with free lockers … but that is not in 2014–15. he situation for Victorians facing Promenade is Batman Park, a concrete strip resolving the issue. Maybe if the locker was CEO Cathy Humphrey gives a damning homelessness is at breaking point. under city train-lines renowned as a haunt of four times bigger and you could sleep in it.” overview of the crisis during that period: T While recent media coverage of vio- those sleeping rough. Watching over a medley ‘Cheryl’ has also been sleeping rough at “Every day 329 requests for assistance were lent altercations between people experiencing of blankets, clothing, a bicycle and other pos- Batman Park, choosing to stay in the inner unable to be met, with 8500 people reporting homelessness and law enforcement officers sessions are a young man reading a book, an city for safety. “This spot is well lit and there that they had slept rough in the last month. In has caused anxiety among the community, older woman writing in a journal and David, are CCTV cameras everywhere. I don’t feel 2016, Infrastructure Victoria called for a major local councils are being labelled callous, cruel who introduces himself whilst mixing tracks as scared down here. Two days ago the coun- investment in affordable and social housing and insensitive in their approach to dealing on a laptop with a makeshift sound system. cil came down through the city with a police for Victoria’s most vulnerable as one of the with homeless people. David describes his struggles, his passion escort and took everything … they said only top priorities of its draft 30-year infrastructure At a Melbourne City Council meeting in for making music, his feelings about the girl tents would be removed but they took every- strategy. early February there was heated debate about he is in love with who is sleeping two blocks thing … they took people’s kids’ photos. If I “According to their estimates, up to 100,000 proposed changes to legislation that would al- down, and his experience of being homeless. did that — pretty sure I’d end up in prison.” low-income Victorians are currently living un- low police to force the homeless to ‘move on’. “I haven’t had a night off the street in about When provided with details of the proposed der extreme financial stress and without access Belongings confiscated would only be returned five months,” he says. “It’s gotten to the point council by-laws, Cheryl was unaware she to affordable housing [but] we are yet to see an to them upon payment of a fine. that I don’t know if I could sleep inside … would have the right to access her belongings Affordable Housing Strategy from the Victori- The council was inundated with submissions this is exactly what I didn’t want to happen. I after paying a fee. “So I have to buy my stuff an or Commonwealth governments.” from members of community groups working didn’t want to get used to doing this. It’s not back [laughter]? How are they going to track Sacred Heart Mission assists hundreds of in the sector who objected to the proposal. The good to get comfortable on the street ’cos it what belongs to who? This is an absolute people experiencing homelessness and living Melbourne Town Hall gallery was filled with ain’t a safe place. joke.” in poverty by finding shelter and providing homeless Victorians who were vocal in their “The council should never have cut money The Victorian Government committed $152 food and ongoing care and support. Cathy also disdain — many formally addressing Lord from mental health, they should never have million in funding last year in response to has a strong stance on the proposed law re- Mayor Robert Doyle with their opinion that cut money from drug and alcohol [services]. I the desperate need for better-resourced crisis forms. “Criminalising those sleeping rough is this ‘bandaid approach’ does not address the would love to know where the millions of dol- accommodation, yet the situation remains just systemic, growing problems of homelessness lars have been spent to assist the homeless.” as dire. Statistics provided by Sacred Heart Continued on Page 4
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POLITICS & ENVIRONMENT 3 • COMMUNITY 5 • THE CENTRE 10 • EDUCATION & TECHNOLOGY 12 • SPORT & HEALTH 15 • TRAVEL & FOOD 15 • ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT 17 2 NOTICEBOARD NOTICEBOARD North andNorth West and Melbourne West Melbourne News News AUTUMN AUTUMN 2017 2017
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Corner Queensberry & Howard streets, North Melbourne The congregation meets in the church hall, 4 Elm Street Palm Sunday 9 April 10.00am Publisher: Michael Halls Maundy Thursday 13 April 7.30pm including Eucharist and the Editor: Position vacant North Melbourne Library foot-washing ritual Advertising Coordinator: Janet Graham Good Friday 14 April 10.00am Section Editors: Walk for National Trust Heritage Festival 2017 Saturday 15 April 8.00pm Easter Vigil Service, the New Fire, Voices North Melbourne Arts & Entertainment: Lucie Gavanon Eucharist Community: Dhugal Bissett The walk starts from the library at 2.00pm on 7 May. Bookings Sunday 16 April 10.00am Easter Day Service with Eucharist Education & Technology: Dan Tuturas and required, commencing in April. Look for brochures in the library and a reaffirmation of baptism Ian Truong and check the website, www.melbournelibraryservice.com.au. Events: Emma McCashney North Melbourne Book Group 2017 History: Position vacant Third Monday of every month, 6.00pm, North Melbourne Library RESIDENTS ABOUT INTEGRATED Noticeboard: Janet Graham 10 April* Our Souls at Night Kent Haruf Politics & Environment: Brianna Faye Lugg DEVELOPMENT (RAID@3051) Inc 15 May Commonwealth Ann Patchett Notice of Annual General Meeting Sport & Health: Victor McMillan and Katrina 19 June Do Not Say We Have Nothing Madeleine Thien Kincade-Sharkey *Please note the April date is in lieu of Easter Monday (17 April) Date: Wednesday 5 April 2017 Time: AGM from 6.00pm to 8.00pm The Centre: Janet Graham Enquiries to: 9658 9700 Travel & Food: Meghalee Bose North Melbourne Library, 66 Errol Street, North Melbourne Venue: North Melbourne Recreation Production team: Susi Allender, Dhugal Centre, 204 Arden Street, Bissett, Janet Graham, Emma McCashney Theatrette (above the gym) and Jim Weatherill. Peter Alsen provided The AGM will provide an update on local professional assistance with layout. planning matters affecting us all, notably the Woolworths development and others Printed by Express Print in Shiel/Haines Street and plans for the 5 Jones Road, Morwell 3844 new Arden–Macaulay precinct. We do Circulation 7000 hope you can join us at our AGM. AUTUMN 2017 North and West Melbourne News POLITICS & ENVIRONMENT 3
politics & environment It’s time to make renting fair in Victoria
Tenants Union of Victoria uation. The one that often comes to people’s minds is the length of their fixed-term agree- ment. If you’ve got one of those you should be ictoria’s renting laws are currently right, right? Well, not necessarily. Tenure secu- under review. These are the laws that rity is not only about the length of your lease. outline the protections and responsi- Other aspects that give you tenure security are: V bilities of tenants and landlords, controlling having a rent that you can afford to pay (and safety, security and privacy for renters. knowing that it won’t be increased haphaz- Tenancy legislation has not had a signifi- ardly); cant review since 1997 and since that time the having your home be properly maintained rental market has changed significantly. What and being able to get repairs done through was once considered a stepping stone to home an accessible and simple process; ownership has now become the only long-term having privacy and quiet enjoyment of your housing option for an ever-growing number of home; and Victorians. having confidence that you will be able to There are now over 1.2 million people stay in your home for as long as you want renting in Victoria, around 30 per cent of all whilst maintaining your responsibilities as a households. Many people continue to live tenant. in the private rental market for life, with the fastest growing group of renters aged over 55. How to make renting fair This is why it is vital that we modernise the Protect tenants from unfair and unnecessary legislation to better reflect the current realities eviction of the housing market. Abolish no-reason notices to vacate The Victorian Government launched the In Victoria landlords can give notices to ter- review of renting laws in August 2015 through minate a tenancy for a number of reasons, its Fairer Safer Housing review. The review including where the tenants have failed to pay began with an initial consultation paper, the rent, or where landlords wish to sell the Laying the Groundwork, and proceeded with property or move into it themselves. six Issues Papers covering topics such as se- Landlords can also give a notice to vacate curity of tenure, rights and responsibilities of for no reason at all, either at the end of a fixed- landlords and tenants, bonds, rents and other term agreement or at any time during a peri- charges, property conditions, dispute resolu- odic tenancy. This severely weakens tenants’ tion and alternative forms of tenure. security of tenure and undermines tenants’ Following this extensive consultation, in confidence in the system to protect them from January of this year an Options Paper was re- unfair eviction. We know that the majority leased, detailing over 150 possible options for of tenants are unwilling to assert their rights reform. in other areas because they fear retaliation The government claims that it wants to through eviction. It’s hard to keep a roof over your head Illustration: Susi Allender make things fairer and safer for tenants. This We say eviction should only ever be a last however is not the full picture of what is being resort and that there is no place in a fair system even though it: ‘quiet enjoyment’ of their rental property. put forward in the options. for eviction for no reason. Lacks basic amenities such as a heater, run- However, landlords and real estate agents do Introduce a reasonableness test for ning hot water and a working oven/stove have some rights of entry, as long as they com- Long-term leases and security of evictions Is insecure because of inadequate locks on ply with the legal notice requirements. tenure Eviction should always be proportionate, it external doors and windows When a landlord is selling the property ten- The Andrews Government wants to provide should be a last resort and it should be fair. We Is unsafe or unhealthy because of structural ants can be subject to disruptive and intrusive optional longer-term leases to try to make say that there needs to be greater protections defects open house inspections many times per week. rental housing more secure. At the same time for vulnerable and disadvantaged tenants to There continues to be an ever-increasing short- they are proposing to significantly erode ten- ensure that eviction is the most reasonable age of affordable rental properties, and many This is despite the fact that the law does not ants’ protections from unfair and unnecessary option given the circumstances. This means al- tenants have no choice but to rent properties expressly allow for this type of entry. We say evictions. lowing the tribunal to consider relevant factors that lack even a basic level of amenity and that the law should clearly give tenants the We say that longer fixed-term tenancy to determine whether eviction is reasonable energy efficiency. We are calling for the Vic- final say over if and when they have to open agreements are not the way to make housing given the circumstances. torian Government to introduce standards for their doors to an open house inspection. more secure for the majority of renters, and health, safety and energy efficiency to protect We also say that tenants should be able to definitely not if other protections are being Protect tenant health and safety tenants from unhealthy living environments. refuse the gross intrusion of privacy of having eroded in the meantime. Introduce minimum standards for health, photographs of their possessions displayed in Housing security, or security of tenure, is safety and energy efficiency Give tenants greater privacy protections advertising billboards and online. about having choice, control and certainty over Decent housing is essential to health and well- Expand privacy and quiet enjoyment your housing circumstances. Tenure security is being. Rental housing, however, is one of the protections for tenants about the ability to create a home and a sense only consumer goods that does not have some We think tenants need greater privacy protec- To read more about the Residential Tenancies of belonging in the community. form of minimum standards to protect con- tions from disruptive and intrusive entry to Act Review go to www.fairersaferhousing.vic. There are a number of factors that influence sumers’ health and safety. Because there are their home. gov.au/renting or go to the Tenants Union of how secure a tenant feels in their housing sit- no standards, housing can be available for rent The law states that tenants have a right to Victoria website on www.tuv.org.au.
53 LITTLE BAILLIE STREET NORTH MELBOURNE 0408 170 769 / 03 9329 0503 [email protected] 4 POLITICS & ENVIRONMENT North and West Melbourne News AUTUMN 2017 Homelessness crisis divides the city
Continued from Front page the first point of contact for many vulnerable less. Most are funded by donations and operat- into surrounding areas. Backpack Beds keep young people facing crisis. They have seen the ed through the kindness of volunteers. people alive — while waiting for politicians to not effective change. It will only hand out peo- council proposal and intend to make a formal One of the most innovative and successful move suffering homeless out of their elector- ple with fines they can’t pay, which might lead submission. ventures has been Backpack Bed for Home- ates. Leaders who forcefully move problems to to arrests and imprisonments,” she warns. Lisa O’Brien, Melbourne City Mission’s less. The company won the Australian Hu- neighbouring city councils are not leaders.” “Homelessness and sleeping rough is not operations manager of youth refuges (WRAP), man Rights Commission’s 2011 Community Our elected government representatives a choice, it’s a national shame. It’s a shame explains the need for a holistic approach: Organisation Award. They provide emergency appear to be committed to addressing the that this crisis has been brewing for many “Obviously, housing is a number one basic relief bedding for homeless people without homelessness epidemic. years now and it is only now that it has taken necessity for everybody but it can’t just be shelter through partnerships with 400 homeless “Every Victorian deserves to have a roof centre stage. The solutions being offered are housing … it has to be support. What that services across Australia. Sadly, the demand over their head. We’re providing more support temporary fixes, and changes to laws that will support looks like is a cross-sectional approach far outweighs current fundraising efforts. so those in need have access to housing and make it illegal to sleep rough in the city are a with drug and alcohol services, mental health CEO and founder Tony Clark has been nom- targeted assistance to get back on their feet,” bandaid fix and won’t work.” services, traditional health services, local gov- inated twice as Australian of the Year for his wrote Martin Foley, Minister for Housing, The most recent available data from the ernment, councils, media and the community. incredible contribution to the community and Disability and Ageing, on 12 November 2016. 2011 census recorded 40 per cent of the na- It’s really easy to turn a blind eye but we are he is outraged at the council’s plans. However, it is clear that the current funding tional homeless demographic as under the age all part of the solution.” “Shelter is a basic human right,” he insists. models are not proving effective in providing adequate support to Victoria’s most vulnerable. of 25; shockingly, 21 per cent of these were Lisa also stresses the need for individualised “Passing a law that takes shelter away is in- The proposed changes to by-laws governing under the age of 10. The number one reason support plans when addressing the complex is- humane and evil. Many city councils around public camping were released for community given by people accessing homeless services sues of those experiencing homelessness: “Ul- Australia have funded Backpack Beds for their comment after a majority of Melbourne City was domestic violence, coupled with financial timately, it is about understanding the reasons rough sleepers. When no other shelter is avail- councillors voted in favour of the amendment. hardship. why people are where they are — how their able, the only way for a homeless person to The City of Melbourne has recorded a 74 journey has led them where they are. The only receive a Backpack Bed is via a local homeless For further information on the organisations per cent increase in homelessness in the past way to get to those people who are disengaged service aimed at getting them off the street. It’s featured in this article: two years. is to go to them, wherever it is that they feel not known if we will have to stop distributing Melbourne City Mission: Melbourne City Mission is another lead- safe, build their trust, which is a slow process, [this] proven life-saving assistance to homeless www.melbournecitymission.org.au ing support service for those experiencing and bring them back into services that can sup- services in the City of Melbourne. Sacred Heart Mission: disadvantage, offering housing assistance, port them and have the expertise to do so.” “Even a child can see the City of Melbourne www.sacredheartmission.org counselling and ongoing support. They have Various outreach services operate across is not going to fix the problem with these inhu- Backpack Bed for Homeless: various specialised youth programs and are Melbourne providing assistance to the home- mane new laws. It’s just going to move people www.swags.org.au ‘World’s most livable city’ — not for some
Ellen Sandell, Education Support Program (PESP), whom State Member for Melbourne I recently invited to address our local Police Community Consultative Committee. Jason, a proud Aboriginal man and father omelessness in Melbourne is on the of three, was a firefighter and valued member rise. I know it’s an issue that many of his regional community when he was diag- North and West Melbourne residents nosed with a mental illness. His struggle with H mental health led him to drug addiction, which are deeply concerned about. A survey of homelessness conducted by the threw him into 10 years of homelessness. City of Melbourne last year counted 247 peo- After spending three years on the streets of ple sleeping rough in inner Melbourne. That’s Melbourne, Jason started to volunteer at St a massive increase of 74 per cent compared to Mark’s, a homelessness service in Colling- 2014. Sixty-eight per cent of those surveyed wood. By chance, he connected with a local had been homeless for more than a year. homelessness worker and was eventually able In a city that is supposed to be the ‘world’s to receive medical assistance for his addiction, most livable’, this problem is reaching crisis and was assisted by the Melbourne Streets to levels. However, I’ve been disappointed that Home program to secure permanent housing. the City of Melbourne and the Andrews State Now that he has a home (where he pays 75 Labor Government are not dealing with it in per cent of market rent so it’s affordable for the way they should. him), Jason has joined the PESP team and does Photo: courtesy Office of Ellen Sandell MP I was dismayed to see Lord Mayor Robert important work improving the homelessness system, providing input into policy, and build- Doyle and his team of councillors propose new ing community understanding of the lived by-laws to try and ban sleeping rough in the experience of homelessness. He is an amazing city. Simply ‘moving people on’ or confiscat- LETTERS TO THE EDITOR and insightful advocate. But his story could ing their blankets and bags just pushes people have ended badly. He was only helped out of to other areas of the city. This approach will homelessness by a chance encounter with a not work, and it’s cruel. homelessness worker at the right time. One of the main reasons homelessness has Gutted by whale death The population debate He also waited years before he was able to increased is the lack of affordable housing in access long-term affordable housing. Many Ellen Sandell MP’s article (News, March 2016, our city. There are over 33,000 applicants on I am frequently disgusted with the way we people in his situation would have, under- ‘Overdevelopment is a road to ruin for our the public housing waiting list, and most wait treat this planet, but the article ‘30 bags in standably, given up hope and not been able to city’) is actually encouraging. But the deflec- 5–10 years or more for a place. People are whale gut’ (Herald Sun, 4/2/17) has inspired get off the streets or deal with their addiction tion on the central point of population growth me to write my third-ever letter to the editor. often turned away from crisis or temporary or other problems. blaming “the government” is disappointing, A Cuvier’s beaked whale is a rare enough accommodation because it’s full, or simply too Lots of people like Jason don’t get the help and evasive given the direct nexus between specimen in and of itself, but to find one dying expensive. People can be charged up to $100 a they need, often through sheer bad luck or lack overdevelopment and population growth. So night (sometimes more!) for temporary ‘crisis’ of services where they are. Many people disen- on the Norwegian coast with 30 plastic bags in what is the Greens’ position on population accommodation in motels or shelters — which gage from services because they’ve been failed its stomach horrifies me. The article says the growth for the seat and City of Melbourne? is simply unaffordable. in the past — particularly if they’re waiting for bags were blocking the whale’s intestines and And Australia? The Andrews State Government promised public housing for years without success. would likely have been causing considerable I’ve read the Greens’ population policy at an affordable housing strategy by the end of Jason’s experience shows that we must look pain. www.greens.org.au/policies/population. It last year, but at the time of writing this strategy beyond just knee-jerk reactions. Trying to The purpose of this letter is to suggest finishes with nothingness — the point about is yet to be released. Instead of building more ‘ban’ homeless people sleeping on the streets that we should be more responsible with having a debate has been there for a decade. public housing, Labor is transferring large por- won’t solve the problem, and will just push our rubbish. We are clearly not aware of the The Melbourne federal, state and local gov- tions of public housing stock to not-for-profit people to surrounding suburbs. impact of our own garbage and rarely give any ernment Green representatives, in my experi- providers. If you’d like to hear more about our plan for thought to the items we use — what we should ence, are distinctly unenthusiastic about dis- We need urgent action on homelessness, affordable housing, visit www.fixhousing.com.au cussing population growth and avoid having a and what we most certainly should not use — but it must be action that actually solves the clear public position on it, even a position spe- and to how we dispose of the packaging. problem at its root, rather than just moving it Note: I am on maternity leave until mid-year, cifically with respect to growth in the seat of around the city or to nearby suburbs. as I take time off to enjoy the birth of my first Let’s consider the environment even before Melbourne and the City of Melbourne, which I have been lucky enough to work closely child. My office will remain open and my staff we buy. has had among the highest growth in Australia. with the Council to Homeless Persons on this and Greens colleagues can help local resi- issue, and would like to share the inspiring dents with any concerns or issues you have, so Very Greer Impressive and Yarndi Geoff Leach, North Melbourne story of Jason, a team member in their Peer please don’t hesitate to get in touch. North Melbourne NWMN website AUTUMN 2017 North and West Melbourne News COMMUNITY 5
community
North and West Melbourne Association
We look forward to the installation of the heritage-style toilet in Queensberry Street this autumn Graphic: City of Melbourne The community and the NWMA reduced to 64 with four office/retail spaces. regard the recent planning-scheme changes — The recent report found that employment have a major win at VCAT Unfortunately, our council supported this later which were supported by the Victorian State in North Melbourne had increased by 30 proposal, contrary to the community’s and the Government and the Melbourne City Council per cent over the same period, with the top In November 2016 the Capel/Peel Street com- Association’s requests. — as an invitation to open up North and West employing industries being business services, munity and the North and West Melbourne With the help of Russell Hocking, a promi- Melbourne and Carlton to intensive and high- health and social assistance, and food and Association attended the Victorian Civil and nent town planning consultant, the community rise development. beverage services. However, the data shows Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) to oppose and the Association presented a very strong A number of applications for inappropriate that full-time employment was not growing at a nine-storey development at 199–217 Peel case for reducing the height of this develop- developments are now under consideration in the same rate as non-full-time work, which had Street, North Melbourne. ment. Based on a number of town-planning West Melbourne. increased by 47 per cent over the past 10 years. The original proposal was for 11 storeys principles and planning-scheme controls, the For more information visit our website at above ground with three levels of underground development was considered to be a very poor www.nwma.org.au or join our Facebook or car-parking and comprised three retail prem- CLUE confirms rapid apartment outcome for this part of North Melbourne. mailing list to read the full report when it is ises, two licensed food and drink premises, 75 growth in North Melbourne Fortunately, the tribunal members agreed released later this year. dwellings and 51 car spaces. All vehicle and with our submissions and reduced the proposal The number of residential apartments within service access was from McInerney Lane to North Melbourne has increased by 78 per significantly to seven storeys with all vehicles New public toilet for North the rear, in the residential part of Capel Street. and services to enter off Peel Street. cent since 2006 (4280 residential apartments, The site area is 762 square metres. The community argued that it would support compared with 2400 in 2006). Melbourne The local community, the Association and appropriate development that produced good Earlier this year, the City of Melbourne In the last edition we announced that Melbourne City Council opposed this social and town-planning outcomes. Given the released its findings from the 2016 Census Melbourne City Council had agreed to install proposal. new planning controls for this area, this de- of Land Use and Employment (CLUE) data a new heritage-style unisex public toilet next Just prior to the VCAT hearing, the de- cision is regarded by many as a precedent for report on North Melbourne. The CLUE census to the urinal in Queensberry Street opposite veloper amended the proposal to nine levels lower and less intensive development. is compiled biennially, and separate reports are the town hall. There wasn’t room to include an above ground with three levels of underground It has become very clear, with this applica- published by the City of Melbourne for each of image of the new arrival then, so we provide car-parking. The number of dwellings was tion and others, that the development interests its constituent suburbs. one here.
NWMA meetings and contact details Meetings: Held on the third Tuesday of most months, at 7.30pm, in the Dewey Common, Information: [email protected] Bastow Institute, 603–615 Queensberry Street (enter from Union Street). Everyone is welcome. Website: www.nwma.org.au We often have guest speakers who present on topics of interest to North and West Melbourne Facebook: www.facebook.com/NorthAndWestMelbourneAssociation/ residents. On 21 March there will be a speaker from Council to Homeless Persons. Membership: pay at www.nwma.org.au/join
Melbourne City Council — ideas for West Melbourne
Valerie Gerrand Peel Street roundabout with an intersection controlled by traffic lights, as included in the Queen Victoria Market redevelopment plan. ike many West Melburnians, I have Other issues we raised included the im- followed with interest the development portance of retaining the green median strips Lof proposals for our suburb’s future. along King Street, consistent with the attrac- Having missed this year’s February workshop tive greening of West Melbourne by the MCC. on the West Melbourne Structure Plan, my The proposed pedestrian crossing across husband Peter and I took up the offer to meet King Street between Rosslyn and Hawke with Melbourne City Council (MCC) staff at a streets would acknowledge the increased ‘pop-up park’ at the corner of Roden and Ad- residential population west of King Street. derley streets. In preparation, we read the two However, along King Street, median breaks discussion documents tabled at the workshop. between Rosslyn and Hawke streets should be This meeting with MCC staff proved a valu- limited to the break that enables vehicle access able opportunity for direct discussion about to Roden Street and then to Leveson Street. issues for West Melbourne residents. In our Note that you can identify your own issues case, we focused first on the future of Dudley Street. After 20 years living on Dudley Street, up to 20 March on the relevant website: www. we are well aware of the increased volume of participate.melbourne.vic.gov.au/westmel- traffic. bourne This includes many more large trucks and longer peak periods each working day. More pedestrians cross Dudley Street heading to and from the CBD, and there are growing numbers of cyclists. The MCC staff were well-informed and receptive to our concerns. They outlined strat- egies for improving the traffic flow through Dudley Street, including the use of reversible lanes. However, they also acknowledged the difficulty of limiting traffic along Dudley Street, as it is the only direct conduit for traffic to and from the west to bypass the CBD. In the future, traffic flow could be improved by the proposed replacement of the William/ Traffic expert Harry Barber (right) explains the plans to West Melbourne residents at a ‘pop-up park’ Photo: Janet Graham 6 COMMUNITY North and West Melbourne News AUTUMN 2017 Errol Street businesses under VERY IMPRESSIVE Hi, readers. Welcome to the first of my regular columns.
pressure irst time I’ve seen Dad’s writing thing: I WANT MARRIAGE FOR LIBBY in many years. Cards have always O’DONNOVAN AND CASEY COLE Sarah Biron McMaster’s had been trading at 60 Errol Fsaid “love Mum+Dad”. Also first Stop being such a wimpy-washy PM, or go Street since 1878. Lucy received a 2013 Silver acknowledgement of Very or Impressive. away and let someone good do it. Lord Mayor’s Commendation, a recognition Thanking for Porsche book I sent for early isgruntled Errol Street shopkeepers are awarded to small businesses that have operated birthday present. And brownie points for Happy (Invasion) Australia Day to you. Yarndi claiming that their rents are exorbitant. in the City of Melbourne for at least 25 years. marking exact model of his car (the Lola). says “Hugs, and may the Force be with you Some are considering closing down, Two other traders who prefer to remain And an extra 100 he found after Bathurst. always”. It’s been a non-event here, haven’t D Gosh, most interaction I’ve had from him even talked to anyone except Yarndi. saying business is no longer viable. anonymous say they have similar issues. A Jianna Quattrocchi, owner of gift shop cafe owner said it was hard to meet his com- in years. And in print. It’s astounding. It’s Kitchen Capers, has traded on Errol Street for mitments in terms of staff wages because of fleeting. But listen closely. Not for very Text from John: “When are we going to start more than 30 years. “The rent has gone up by the $1800 weekly rental. much longer. Until madness takes its toll. I producing medical hemp oil?” 35 per cent in the past four to five years so the “After paying rent, which is a big chunk at remember doing The Time Walk … etc etc etc. Reply: “Often I’ve wanted to.” But others tell store is no longer sustainable. I will stop trad- the end of the week, it leaves very little,” he me it’s a time-consuming, cost-prohibitive thing ing in April,” she said. explained. “Now I’m in the position where I 26/2/16: Emergency Dept, Royal Melbourne and unless you can sell it (which is strangely “I will miss being here in North Melbourne. have to trade in the evenings in the hope that I Hospital illegal) you’re just not making anything on it. It’s such a lovely place! I will really miss my can meet our needs, but it is difficult. Think I’ve torn something inappropriate in People get defeated by the process. customers. I have tried contacting the council “The pressure keeps rising all the time for right shoulder/bicep. Serious pain in places. but nothing has worked.” small business. Decreasing the rent by $100 to Awoke with it Wednesday, maybe did it when One of the best pussybeasts in the world, my Lucy Cantone says her business, McMas- $300 per week would be a huge help.” dehoarding with Carolyn on Tuesday morning. Dr Evil, died yesterday (5/2/17). I knew him ter’s Jewellers, was also adversely affected, Another business owner claims things will Made a silly noise this morning during from eight weeks old. The only other cat I’ve forcing closure after 30 years under her owner- only get worse: “The rent is the same or higher Laughter Yoga With Dogs, our first session. known as long was Pumpkinpuss when my ship. The business now runs as a mobile opera- than other businesses with more traffic. The Seen triage nurse now, she’s a dog person. sisters and I were kids. Didn’t attend vets for tion: “I was struggling to pay rent as it was and last rental increase was more than 32 per cent Going to get Yarndi a bowl of water. injection. Decided the hugs we had in the then it doubled in the final two years. I did try and my customers have had to absorb the price Even before yoga I knew we were going to morning would do. Now he’s under a cumquat to negotiate a lower rate a number of times.” rises.” be here today, but foolishly we didn’t bring tree in Preston. anything to read. Could’ve gone home to get Loved that cat for many reasons, one of them something. being that as far as I know he NEVER killed a $550 to see a doctor here without a Medicare bird. Practically everything else, but no birds. card, a nurse has just told someone. Hoping Killed all spiders in number 35 and a gecko, we won’t be told not to cycle, tomorrow and 25 locusts at Darryl’s got eaten. Fabulous apparently being the LAST World Naked Bike cat he was. Ride in Melbourne. Bookface: I added a few more. Started by my sister. Come on someone, do this with me! April 2016: Prince is dead. Facebook is supposed to be social so let’s learn I think I saw him sing ‘Little Red Corvette’ about each other! in the early ’80s. If a search reveals he was Tattoos … 36 in Melbourne at that time, I was there. I saw Piercings … only 5 now Prince. Marriages … 0 Divorces … 0 April 2016: Text received from Mark: Children … 1 “Hello gorgeous. I thought of you when the Surgeries … 12 recent wall collapsed in North Melbourne. Shot a gun? … No How are you holding up?” Quit a job? … No I wish I’d got that gate before they tore the Flown on a plane? … Yes Royal Park Hotel down. I shed a tear for her. 100+ miles in a car? … Yes North Melbourne won’t be graced with her Gone zip lining? … No unique beauty, history and memories anymore. Fallen in love? … Yes They didn’t deserve her in the first place if Skipped school? … Yes the first and only option is to knock her down Watched someone give birth? … No carelessly. Watched someone die? … Yes Ridden in an ambulance? … Yes I am still in isolation. If it didn’t make me look Sang karaoke? … Yes seriously messed up, I would make Mondays Had a pet(s)? … Yes my silent day, no speaking. I know a girl who Been sledding on a big hill? … No takes vows of silence; she is into the hugging Been downhill skiing? … No guru, Amma. Ridden a motorbike? … Yes Illustration: Susi Allender Ridden a horse? … Yes How is huggable Yarndi? Stayed in a hospital? … Yes Snuggable Donated blood? … No Huggable Ridden in the back of a police car? … Yes Smug Do you walk and text? … No, certainly not Haughty Have you been to Rapa Nui? … No Delightfully proud How many hats do you own? … 300+ Yarndi Have you ridden a camel? … Yes That’s how I see him Do you have trophies? … 4 Strutting his stuff Do you own a brass instrument? … Yes, 2 Doing his thing Have you sung in a band on a stage? … Yes Have you been in any movies? … Yes, 2 Text to Mark: “Hey there, invalid. Are you at Have you been on a steam train? … Yes home or in Pakenno? Still can’t send mail to St Do you own a magnifying glass? … Yes Kilda without address!!!” Do you still send mail? … Yes Have you been on an ocean-going vessel? … September 2016: You should see Errol Street. No Entire tram route fenced off, ripped up in three Do you still cycle? … Yes blocks and replaced. But there’s no superstop. Do you eat McDonald’s? … No Business sales were down 60–70 per cent. IGA Do you own cacti? … Yes lost 20k one Saturday! Seek out your own emojis. What fun it is to find things I’ve done or have amongst the Here’s a laugh for you. emojis. If you want to play, hold your finger I’m having an ode printed tomorrow on a down and select copy … then go into status T-shirt for the gay marriage rally that Yarndi and paste. Change the answers for yourself. and I are attending on Wednesday. Saw the shirt today in an op shop, yellow 3XL Yours, Very Greer Impressive AUTUMN 2017 North and West Melbourne News COMMUNITY 7 Connecting cultures at North Melbourne Language and Learning
Nikki Blanch Now in its third year, the program coordinates of people to Silvan near the Dandenongs, to with food displays and samples of traditional events such as cultural festivals, workshops pick and eat cherries! foods, some art-and-craft activities and music that share the arts, crafts and food traditions of The year’s events were a great success, en- and performances. orking at North Melbourne Lan- different cultures, and excursions to places of gaging over 300 community members from 14 Harvest festivals traditionally celebrate the guage and Learning (NMLL) at the interest. different cultural backgrounds. I think one of biggest food harvest of the year. We invite Wbase of the North Melbourne hous- In 2016 the Connecting Cultures program the real benefits of this program is the positive everyone to drop in and take part in the cele- ing estate, I am constantly excited by the peo- brought the local community together through exchange that happens between people from brations from around the world. If you would ple I get to meet, the languages I hear, and the these events: celebrating International Wom- different cultures. like to be involved in any way, as a stallhold- amazing ways in which people live their lives. en’s Day with an archive tour and morning tea In 2017, Connecting Cultures has a very ex- er, cook or performer, please contact Nikki It is like travelling each day. Rich sounds, at the Public Record Office Victoria; running citing calendar of events planned in collabora- Blanch at NMLL. colours and smells fill the air. I often think a mosaic card-making workshop as a part tion with our community, responding to needs how lucky I am to be surrounded by all this of Ramadan; inviting one of our community and interests. Our first event for 2017 will be Nikki Blanch is the community development diversity for the learning opportunities it gives members to run an Indian vegetarian cooking a Harvest Festival to coincide with Cultural worker at NMLL. me. workshop; an excursion to the Collingwood Diversity Week. The Connecting Cultures program at NMLL Children’s Farm with an enjoyable lunch to- The Harvest Festival will be on Thursday 23 North Melbourne Language and Learning aims to connect the culturally diverse com- gether; and celebrating Diwali, the Festival of March, from 4.00pm to 6.00pm, at NMLL, and Ground Floor, 33 Alfred Street, North munities of North Melbourne with the wider Lights, with traditional foods and some hands- will take the shape of a thriving marketplace. Melbourne community, through creating opportunities for on activities. There will be different stalls to show how Har- Phone: 9326 7447 cultural exchange and intercultural connection. To finish off the year, we took two busloads vest Festival is celebrated around the world, Email: [email protected]
Photos: courtesy North Melbourne Language and Learning 8 COMMUNITY North and West Melbourne News AUTUMN 2017
Defender of Victoria’s parks, public lands and heritage OBITUARY Top tips for tenants Julianne Bell 30.5.1940–27.1.2017 Yaelle Caspi, good repair or fails to uphold the tenant’s quiet enjoyment of the property, the tenant may be Tenants Union of Victoria ulianne Bell, dedicated and courageous entitled to compensation. This can be claimed protector of Victoria’s parks, public lands during the tenancy or up to six years from the and cultural heritage, died on 27 January. At the start of a tenancy date the incident occurred. J Julianne was variously described as intel- 1. Real estate agents must inform tenants if ligent, fearless, courageous, feisty, witty and “you had better have done your homework on they check tenant databases (blacklists) After a tenancy Sometimes real estate agents use a tenant data- an issue before taking her on”. Julianne’s death base to check if applicants have been recorded 7. Tenants don’t necessarily have to leave was a shock and profound personal loss to all Julianne in familiar pose campaigning to as having a poor rental history. If a landlord or after receiving a notice to vacate who knew her. save Royal Park Psychiatric Hospital from agent usually uses a tenant database to assess If a tenant receives a notice to vacate, they Julianne grew up in Camberwell, attending development in 2002 rental applications they have to let you know don’t need to leave the property right away. Fintona Girls’ School. As a schoolgirl, she was Photo: James Boddington in writing at the time of the application. The landlord must apply for a possession a champion horsewoman, Victorian backstroke order through the tribunal if the tenant does champion and later a black-run skier and a and in 2003 founded an incorporated body for 2. Tenants don’t have to consent to receive not leave by the day specified in the notice to yoga teacher. She travelled overseas often, this purpose named Protectors of Public Lands notices electronically vacate. Tenants have the right to test the valid- teaching English in Greece and pursuing her (Victoria). This organisation operates as a Landlords can now serve notices electronical- ity of the notice. We recommend that tenants interest in history. coalition of Melbourne and statewide groups, ly. This means that they can let tenants know seek advice as soon as possible if they receive Her last job before retirement was working overseeing and caring for public assets in their all the important information by email if the a notice to vacate and are unsure if it is valid with Minister Gerry Hand in the Immigration localities. Its slogan is “Keep public lands in tenant has consented to receiving notices in or not. Department. public hands”. Julianne served as secretary this way. This may be a notice that the rent has Julianne went down to the Franklin River until her death. been increased, or a notice to vacate. If tenants 8. Tenants can transfer their tenancy blockade in Tasmania in 1982. From there she Julianne saw her greatest victory as stopping don’t regularly check their email it is recom- agreement to avoid lease break fees became an ardent defender of Melbourne’s the East West Link in 2016. She was present mended that they don’t agree to electronic ser- If a tenant needs to leave the rental property green heritage, including Royal Park, a core for every minute of the six-week hearing, sup- vice as they may miss important information. before the end of their fixed-term lease they factor in the city’s global reputation as the porting the barrister whom PPL (Victoria) and may be able to avoid lease break fees if they world’s most livable city. RPPG had engaged to present the case against 3. Tenants should fill out the condition find a replacement tenant themselves. The In 1996 she was a founding member of the the project. This commitment took a toll on her report carefully and take photos landlord is not allowed to unreasonably with- Royal Park Protection Group (RPPG), dedicat- health. The battle against a freeway through the park had commenced in 1999. The condition report details the condition of hold consent to assign (transfer) the property ed to ensuring that any development was con- She continued to battle for Royal Park up to the property at the time the tenant takes pos- to a new tenant. sistent with the 1987 Royal Park Master Plan. session. It is an important document that is The park was being neglected and 13 hectares her death, objecting to a new permanent sports field with a pavilion and lights on Flemington used as evidence to determine liability for any 9. Tenants don’t always have to steam clean of parkland were cleared for a car park; there Road and increased parking taking over more damage at the end of the tenancy. The tenant the carpets were many other threats to Royal Park’s fu- parkland. should make their own detailed notes and take Although it’s often a clause in tenancy agree- ture. Julianne served as secretary, convenor Julianne’s PPL campaigns included saving photos of the state of the property at the start ments, tenants don’t necessarily have an ob- and then committee member of RPPG. Port Campbell’s fragile cliffs and war memo- and end of their tenancy. ligation to professionally clean the carpets at The battle to preserve and protect the Roy- rial reserve from an oversized development, the end of the tenancy. Tenants only have an al Park has been ongoing. Julianne worked and Camperdown’s historic elm avenue of 500 obligation to leave the property in a reasonably tirelessly to ensure the master plan was ad- trees. The attempts to save Gough Whitlam’s During a tenancy clean condition, and free from damage aside hered to. In 1998 she was instrumental in the home and the 110-year-old Flemington Road from fair wear and tear. If the carpet is clean ‘discovery’ of Walmsley House. This historic 4. Landlords must always provide notice to lemon-scented gum failed, but not through without professional cleaning, then the land- iron house was saved and listed on the State enter the property lack of endeavour. lord can’t require a tenant to pay for profes- Heritage Register and National Trust heritage The landlord is only able to enter the property Julianne was presented with certificates sional cleaning. listing. The golden wych elm in the grounds without the tenant’s consent for limited rea- from the RPPG for her enormous dedication was listed on the Significant Tree Register of sons set out in the Residential Tenancies Act, to the protection of parks and heritage, and 10. Tenants might not be liable for the the National Trust of Australia (Victoria). such as routine inspections or to undertake she received a special PPL ‘Golden Possum amount the landlord is claiming against In 1999, battles over the location of the State repairs or maintenance. The landlord must Award’. Julianne’s work to protect the possums Netball Hockey Centre (SNHC) were lost after provide at least 24 hours’ notice in writing to the bond of St Kilda’s Catani Gardens was legendary. the tenant to be able to enter the property. If the tenant damages something in the rental legislation permitted its establishment. How- Julianne’s funeral service was held on 3 property they are not always responsible for ever, through Julianne’s efforts, the existing February at St Michael’s Anglican Church in 5. Landlords must keep the property in the full cost of replacement; landlords are buildings were returned to parkland rather than Princes Hill, with a large attendance of family, good repair entitled to recover the value of what was dam- parking lots. friends, statewide activist colleagues and local, There are two classes of repairs under the Res- aged, not the replacement cost. This means Julianne led the campaign to save the Royal state and federal politicians from all political idential Tenancies Act: urgent and non-urgent. that depreciation of the item should be used to Park Psychiatric Hospital and its beautiful parties. Repairs specified on the urgent list should be determine how much is owed. A tenant is not grounds, coordinating the efforts of environ- Julianne had initiative, confidence and carried out immediately. Non-urgent repairs responsible for fixing something that has bro- mentalists, local residents, unionists and politi- integrity of purpose. Her mentoring of a state- should be carried out within 14 days of receiv- ken due to fair wear and tear. cians. This campaign was lost when legislation wide network of activists in advocacy and po- ing notice in writing. If repairs are not done was introduced for the Commonwealth Games. litical lobbying will ensure that developers and the tenant can either contact Consumer Affairs In 2005, a successful campaign ensured that politicians continue to be held to account. Her for non-urgent repairs or apply to the tribunal the new Royal Children’s Hospital did not re- legacy and spirit live on. for urgent repairs. More information can be found on the Tenants sult in any net loss to Royal Park. Union of Victoria website: www.tuv.org.au. Julianne recognised the need to preserve Anne Phefley compiled this tribute with help 6. Tenants have a right to compensation Tenants can contact the Tenants Union for ad- Victoria’s heritage of public spaces and land from many members of PPL (Victoria) and If the landlord fails to maintain the property in vice on 03 9416 2577. from the pressures of an increasing population Royal Park Protection Group.
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TUES TO SUN 4.30PM – 6.30PM 333 William Street, West Melbourne 3003 POTS $3.50 | HOUSE WINE $5.00 | PINTS $7.00 [email protected] | www.royalstandardhotel.com.au AUTUMN 2017 North and West Melbourne News COMMUNITY 9 Spinifex Press casts its seeds further afield
Katrina Kincade-Sharkey operational shift to commercial fertility. “That was when I started to work as the Spinifex Press is not going away. “It’s all “Surrogacy is heavily promoted by the editor of an academic journal, Women’s Studies continuing,” they shout in unison. “Just the stagnating IVF industry,” Dr Klein claims. International Forum, before transferring to address is changing, but maybe it’ll work a prime long-term advocate for women’s “IVF is seeking new markets for women over Deakin Uni in 1986 to teach women’s studies.” little more efficiently if we don’t have to drag rights, Spinifex Press is moving 40 years, as well as gay men who believe they It was a momentous move as the next year she down to Melbourne from North Queensland all Ahouse, from Queensberry Street, North have a ‘right’ to their own children and ‘family met Susan Hawthorne. the time,” says Klein, gratefully. Melbourne, to warehouse premises in Geelong. foundation’.” “I have what’s called a ‘portfolio career’,” “We’re feeling quite okay; in fact, we’re Biologist and social scientist Renate Klein, She details her objections to surrogacy by jokes Hawthorne. “I taught swimming, taught proud to have been here as long as 25 years,” PhD, and author Susan Hawthorne, PhD, examining the short- and long-term harm philosophy, taught Koori students who needed she says, 25 years being several lifetimes for have transitioned their business over the past done to so-called surrogate mothers, their egg back-up and taught English to Arabic-speaking most independent publishers in Australia. year or so while moving their personal home providers and the third axis of this trilogy, the workers at Brunswick Neighbourhood House. “We’ve been joint owners, directors, to North Queensland’s Mission Beach. female partner/wife in the heterosexual couple “Then, because I’d been unemployed for publishers, writers, general dogsbodies — and In a fundamental lifestyle change the who’ve commissioned the newborn. some time around those jobs, I was eligible to partners — for 25 years with Spinifex, but publishers are deserting Melbourne’s Klein also looks at the individual child’s apply for the writing music theatre coordinator together for 30.” inclement weather and incessant inflation to rights, comparing surrogacy to what she terms at Women 150, which was celebrating 150 So finally the time’s come to take some time live in quiet peace, presumably to follow the forced adoption practices. She concludes that years after the establishment of Victoria, for themselves. writers’ lifestyle they’ve long sought. surrogacy — whether so-called altruistic or but I had to ‘subvert’ it. I wanted to involve “But,” says Klein, “we’ll have our dispatch Not that local conditions have mitigated commercial — can never be ethical, outlining Aboriginal, migrant, working chicks and and orders and general office in Geelong, then their individual productivity. In addition to forms of resistance advocated by the Stop lesbians across all those art forms. in Queensland we’ll do all our editorial work, their career catalogues each has a substantial Surrogacy Now campaign. “Then I met my publishers — a job at as well as continuation of our promotional new volume dealing with matters of critical Having worked as a biologist in Switzerland Penguin — and realised over four years there works. Many of our employees will still work concern due for release this coming August. until 1972, Renate then moved to pursue that it was my real work choice. When I left from their homes, as they’ve done in the Klein’s Surrogacy: A Human Rights women’s studies at California’s Berkeley there I was a senior editor. Spinifex system for years. Violation reports pro-surrogacy groups in University, before taking her doctorate in the “Then in 1991 we jointly set up Spinifex,” “This will be ideal for our office manager, rich nations such as Australia and throughout Sociology of Education from University of she says, and Renate gives her a warm hug. Maralann Damiano, who’s been travelling Western Europe lobbying for a statutory and London: The pair take pains to emphasise that from Geelong to Queensberry Street for at least 10 years. Now she’ll have a 10-minute trip from home to work.” Proof that there’ll be no stop to the Spinifex output is the continuation of new titles. Also released during August will be Dr Hawthorne’s Dark Matters: A Novel in which hidden histories of organised violence are uncovered. Hawthorne traces fear and uncertainty, while delivering a narrative of resilience created through the writing of poems. One of Dark Matters’ fundamental concerns is how we pass on stories hidden by shame and our community’s overwhelming resistance to shame. Written in Susan’s usual evocatively poetic prose, this novel is suitably terrifying. But the Spinifex Press publishing partnership is seemingly more concerned with promoting its about-to-be-released works by other writers. One of these is Gardasil: Fast- Tracked and Flawed by independent health researcher Helen Lobato. Lobato’s background in critical-care nursing and her extensive secondary career presenting community radio sessions on women’s health and rights have well equipped her to argue the case against widespread inoculation with the HPV (human papillomavirus) vaccine. Her worry about the lack of evidence of the HPV vaccine’s effectiveness in preventing cervical cancer is well supported by its recorded harmful effects. In the nine years since experimental HPV vaccination programs began, there have been 255 associated deaths reported worldwide and 43,000 adverse events. Gardasil was fast-tracked through the US Renate Klein (left) and Susan Hawthorne Photo: Jim Weatherill Food and Drug Administration, a process usually reserved for serious diseases where a new drug is required to meet an unmet and urgent medical need. But the incidence of WOOD PHARMACY – NORTH MELBOURNE cervical cancer had already been markedly in 67 Errol Street, North Melbourne 3051 • Ph: 9328 1960 • Fax: 9328 1531 decline due to Pap smear programs. Another work they laud is The End of Patriarchy: Radical Feminism for Men by At Wood Pharmacy North Melbourne, we want to help you Robert Jensen, in which he argues the case for optimise your use and understanding of your medicines. radical feminism as a framework of critique Please ask us about: and how men might engage and support women against violence and misogyny. • Your annual Medscheck Jensen is a professor in the school of • Weekly medication packing journalism at Texas University’s Austin • Medication delivery campus, where he teaches courses in media • MedAdvisor phone app to order repeats from home! law, ethics and politics. He has won the We also stock popular brands such as: Regents’ Outstanding Teacher Award. The End of Patriarchy delivers a powerful argument • MooGoo skincare that any just society needs nothing less than • Tilley soaps a radical feminist overhaul of its dominant • Bioceuticals practitioner-only supplements patriarchal structures. • Organyc women’s hygiene range The Spinifex women love this man’s work. • Bioderma and Uriage It’s only taken the odd generation or two, but there is now real awareness of the need for OPENING HOURS: Mon to Fri 8.30am to 6.30pm, Sat 9am to 2pm, Sun 10am to 2pm — closed on public holidays social equity. We can thank Spinifex Press for its unceasing contribution to this process. 10 THE CENTRE North and West Melbourne News AUTUMN 2017
the centre
FOUNDATION SKILLS Education Support: Teacher’s Aide or Beginners Certificate III Time: Thursday 5.30 – 6.30pm¹ Career Planning and Advice Time: Wednesday 9am – 3.30pm Time: By appointment Cost: $1505 / $705 concession* General Class for any level Cost: $96 / $55 concession* Venue: 58 Errol St, North Melbourne Time: Tuesday 5.30 – 6.30pm¹ Venue: 58 Errol St, North Melbourne Wednesday 9.15 – 10.15am² Event Management Home Away From Homework Club Time: Monthly and term options Intermediate Primary (Grades 4–6) available Time: Thursday 7.30 – 8.30pm¹ Time: Wednesday 3.30 – 5pm Cost: $65 / $55 concession* Secondary (Grades 7–12) or free internship Intermediate Plus Time: Tuesday 3.30 – 5pm Venue: 58 Errol St, North Melbourne Time: Thursday 6.30 – 7.30pm¹ Cost: $36 / $26 concession* Venue: North Melbourne Library Venue and Facilities Management Mums and Bubs Open (Grades 4–10) Time: On-the-job training Time: Wednesday 11.15am – 12.15pm² Time: Thursday 3.30 – 5pm Cost: $65 / $55 concession* Cost: Free to City of Hobsons Bay or free internship Men’s Class residents Venue: 58 Errol St, North Melbourne Time: Tuesday 7.30 – 8.30pm¹ Venue: Hobsons Bay Altona Library Journalism, Media and Printing Exercise for Older Adults Management Studies: Business Time: Monday 1pm – 3pm Time: Wednesday 10.15 – 11.15am² Communications or Compliance Cost: $133 / $105 concession* Frameworks or Understanding Workplace Venue: 58 Errol St, North Melbourne Cost for Pilates and Exercise for Older Documents and Processes Adults programs: Time: Wednesday 12.30 – 3.30pm Train the Trainer $185 / $135 concession* or 6pm – 9pm Time: Monday 6pm – 9pm Mums and Bubs: $22 per class Cost: $133 / $105 concession* (three sessions) Venue: 58 Errol St, North Melbourne Cost: $475 / $375 concession* Venue: 58 Errol St, North Melbourne Financial Literacy Time: Monday 1pm – 3pm ART AND CRAFT Cost: Free for those sleeping rough, others $55 Art Therapy Venue: 58 Errol St, North Melbourne INFORMATION, DIGITAL Time: Tuesday 1pm – 3pm MEDIA AND TECHNOLOGY Cost: $133 / $90 concession* Job Seeker Skills Venue: 58 Errol St, North Melbourne Time: Monday 1pm – 3pm Information, Digital Media and Technology: Cost: Free for those sleeping rough First Steps Photoshop and Your Photography Venue: 58 Errol St, North Melbourne Time: Monday 10am – 12 noon Time: Tuesday 10am – 12 noon One Step Further Cost: $133 / $105 concession* Basic Skills Time: Friday 10am – 12 noon Venue: 58 Errol St, North Melbourne Time: Friday 1pm – 2pm Cost: $133 / $105 concession* Cost: Free for those sleeping rough Venue: 58 Errol St, North Melbourne Venue: 58 Errol St, North Melbourne Computer Skills: INTEL® Easy Steps Return to Study and Study Support Time: Wednesday 1pm – 3pm Time: Monday 1pm – 3pm Cost: $133 / $105 concession* * subject to conditions Cost: $96 / $55 concession* Venue: 58 Errol St, North Melbourne # subject to staff–student ratios Venue: 58 Errol St, North Melbourne Drop-in One to One Sessions Self-development Short Courses: One-on-one training arranged with instructor Human Resources for Small Business Time: By appointment, bring your Quality Customer Service own device(s) Time: Wednesday 6pm – 9pm Cost: First four hours $105 and (two sessions) thereafter $55 per session Cost: $96 / $55 concession* Venue: 58 Errol St, North Melbourne Venue: 58 Errol St, North Melbourne Introduction to Technology Bring your own iPad or iPhone or laptop to class to learn. CONTACT THE OFFICE FOR DETAILS Time: Wednesday 10am – 12 noon ON: EMPLOYABILITY AND (four sessions in group setting) Discovery Walks – Art, Architecture and SKILLS DEVELOPMENT Cost: $105 / $55 concession* History Walking Group Venue: 58 Errol St, North Melbourne Ready, Steady – Walk Docklands COMMUNITY PROGRAMS Asthma Management or Anaphylaxis Basic Self-Defence Management or First Aid Volunteering Centre Adventures (Day Field Trips) or Food Handling Time: Fourth Tuesday monthly Time: 9am – 4pm quarterly Volunteer and Internship Program 9am – 5pm (two sessions with pre-reading) HEALTH AND WELLBEING We have a wide range of opportunities for Cost: $40 / $30 concession* # Cost: $149, $95 Food Handling everyone, for example: Meet at: 58 Errol St, North Melbourne Dates: Once each term subject to demand Active at Any Age • Spring Fling Festival, third Sunday in Venue: 58 Errol St, North Melbourne Time: First, second and third October annually Drop-in Morning Teas Tuesday monthly # • Spanish Language Fiesta, second Saturday Cost: $4 per session Conservation and Land Management – 10am – 12 noon in April Time: First Tuesday monthly Certificate II Cost: $40 / $30 concession* • Writing and editing NWM News 10am – 12 noon Time: Wednesday 9.30am – 3.30pm Venue: North Melbourne Library • News distribution Venue: 58 Errol St, North Melbourne Cost: $1195 / $539 concession* plus • Tutoring or teacher’s aide $650 additional cost for field trip Pilates: • Office and business administration Errol’s Angels Community Choir and Venue: 58 Errol St, North Melbourne Venues: ¹The Meat Market, • Venue and facilities management Beginners Singing Blackwood Street, or • Community development work Time: Thursday 7pm – 9pm Core Skills for Work – Vocational ²The Legion, Little Errol Street • Business promotion and development Membership: $167.50 / $103 concession* Preparation (behind The Centre) • Other events per term Time: Monday 10am – 12 noon Time: Must enter into a regular Venue: Maternal & Child Health Centre, Cost: $133 / $105 concession* Absolute Beginners/Rehab commitment 505 Abbotsford St, North Melbourne Venue: 58 Errol St, North Melbourne Time: Tuesday 6.30 – 7.30pm¹ Venue: 58 Errol St, North Melbourne AUTUMN 2017 North and West Melbourne News THE CENTRE 11 Get ready for the next Spanish Language Fiesta!
Photos: Jim Weatherill
Tatiana Echeverri guage of Spain and Latin America with cul- tural and educational activities throughout the day: ime flies and there are only a few weeks • Spanish book swap left before the second Spanish Lan- • Arts & crafts Tguage Fiesta in North Melbourne. Last • Spanish storytelling year we successfully hosted the first fiesta to • Music, dance & culinary workshops wide acceptance by the community, and now • Spanish photo booth we are getting ready to present an even better • Language wall event. • Spanish cinema The Spanish Language Fiesta celebrates • Face painting Spanish Language Day, officially 23 April, • Art exhibition the day Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra died. • Food stalls Cervantes is Spain’s most famous author and • Live music is a key historical figure in the enhancement of We are calling on stallholders, performers, the Spanish language. Our own celebration in food truck operators and other participants his honour takes place on the second Saturday to submit an expression of interest in getting in April. involved in this vibrant event. The community Through music, dance, art and literature is also welcome to present ideas on different we’re bringing the traditions of Hispanic coun- ways to contribute to the fiesta. tries to Melbourne. Last April people of all ages and from vari- Get in touch with us for more information: ous backgrounds enthusiastically joined us for The Centre, 58 Errol Street a day of fun and to enjoy all that this beautiful North Melbourne 3051 culture has to offer. So put the day in your dia- Website: www.centre.org.au ry to make sure you don’t miss out: Email: [email protected] Saturday 8 April 2017, 10.00am to 6.00pm, Phone: (03) 9328 1126 George Johnson Lane, North Melbourne Mobile: 0432 086 133 Celebrate the culture, traditions and lan- Fax: (03) 9328 4812 12 EDUCATION & TECHNOLOGY North and West Melbourne News AUTUMN 2017
education & technology Getting through tertiary education
Dan Tuturas
his autumn, many university students have just commenced tertiary study Tafter completing Year 12. Others have returned to university after a time away or are continuing what may well be a gruelling challenge to complete a three, four or even a six-year course. It’s always important to stay on track rather than giving up and forgoing all that hard work. A recent report in The Age (18/1/17) re- vealed that one in three students drop out of university, unable to complete their studies within six years. Statistics also showed that a third of students who commenced studies in 2009 would drop out by 2014. Males were more likely to drop out than females, with only 40.6 per cent of males completing their studies compared to 48 per cent of females. Technical and Further Education (TAFE) colleges had a higher retention rate for males, 43.3 per cent compared to 36.2 per cent for females, over a four-year time frame.
One in three students drop out of university, unable to complete their studies within six years.
These rates are attributed to students choos- ing the wrong course and, more worryingly, the study–work balance that often shifted towards an equivalent of full-time work whilst also studying full-time, according to The New Daily (9/3/15). Students would often skip lec- tures and tutorials and miss out on important Image: Wikimedia Commons content in favour of earning an income or oth- er living priorities. up and can mean losing touch with your ambi- may find you will be using your time less ef- has some excellent tips for getting through Australian students are eligible for the High- tions and dreams. fectively if you deviate from this path. Perhaps tertiary studies and includes a helpline. er Education Loan Program (HELP) scheme It’s important to be connected — forging even more important is to choose a course that The Centre in North Melbourne provides and, although this can mean they don’t need new friendships and maintaining relationships will live up to your aspirations, be suitably Certificate III and IV courses, and staff mem- to pay full fees up-front, they may not be as by attending lectures, tutorials and classes aligned with your expectations, and possibly bers are more than happy to answer your call motivated as their international counterparts. and social events offered by the institution, fulfil some personal goal. if you would like to get some help and advice. International students, however, often find especially during orientation, creates better net- The Centre can be reached weekdays on 9328 works. Student services on campuses are ad- it daunting to cover up-front fees as well as Attending lectures, tutorials and 1126 and you are also welcome to visit Shop working part-time to help pay these costs. vanced, practical and supportive, and are high- 58, Errol Street. ly experienced. Gaining an understanding of classes and social events offered Such additional pressures to succeed have How we fulfil our career aspirations via ter- the various assistance networks during O-week been cited as motivation for alleged cheating. by the institution creates better tiary education is really up to us as individuals. can be invaluable. Clubs and societies are the Candidates, it has been reported, seek someone networks. Assistance is always readily at hand, helping to mainstay of university social life. There are ‘outside the arena’ to do the work for them ensure that we receive the best education pos- many choices for all interests — get involved! for a price rather than seeking extra assis- Online students could stay socially connect- If you’re not entirely sure where you see sible. There of course needs to be a balance in tance within the study group. Universities do ed by perhaps organising to catch up over cof- yourself at the completion of your studies, study, in work and in life. Higher education can respond to this behaviour very seriously, rec- fee every so often to discuss the work at hand. it might be a good idea to enrol in a general be a gateway to many wonderful discoveries. ognising its potential impact upon standards. Efforts in this area create opportunity and pro- course such as a Bachelor of Arts at university Friendships and connections made on cam- Penalties for cheating are in place, deterring mote the best outcomes for your education and or a general training course at TAFE. pus continue after study, in careers and among students from potential breaches. long-term goals. There is much advice and many helpful alumni groups and ongoing affiliations, and To buck these trends, this recent graduate Additionally, stay on track with the guide- hints to be found online. For example, Youth the establishment of a meaningful career can warns that falling behind in your studies is lines that the university or TAFE provides on Central Victoria (www.youthcentral.vic.gov.au/ be one of the most rewarding investments we ill-advised as it can be very difficult to catch your pathway to completing your course. You studying-training/tertiary-study/tafe-training) ever make. OPTOMETRIST “not just your average travel agent”
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56 Errol Street - North Melbourne - phone 9329 9372 Wherever you want to go, you can trust us to make it happen
Call in to see us at 32 Errol Street, North Melbourne Phone 03 9326 5535 Email [email protected] AUTUMN 2017 North and West Melbourne News EDUCATION & TECHNOLOGY 13 How technology shaped the classroom
Ian Truong the most used devices in the classroom. The fact that the iPad was targeted by many governments for funding as an education any of us would remember and miss tool barely one year after its initial release the days when teaching and learning tells us something about those governments’ Mwas simple and straightforward. vision of the future classroom, such as the Without electronic devices, teaching back then iPads for Learning program in Victoria (www. happened mostly verbally, or with a few charts ipadsforeducation.vic.edu.au). for visual explanation. In addition to the evolution of the tablet, More than 20 years after the first computers there are numerous applications (commonly appeared in schools, which were generally known as apps) designed to assist students used for data and document processing, this with their homework or studies. There are also technology started to change the way students Virtual Teacher apps that help teach students were learning, and computer classes became literacy and numeracy and assist with learning common, not just for young children but for other languages, such as Duolingo. Today’s adults too. apps are much more than a tool to process With the ever-evolving technology, those work, and devices are not just for reading and who adopted it found it gradually becoming watching, as originally devised. immersed in their lives as their dependency on it While we complain about the virtual taking grew. How long will it be before this technology over the reality as people spend more time on totally takes over the classroom? Investments screen than actually communicating face-to- and funding are constantly being directed face, technology companies have merged the towards making education screen-based. two into one by naming it Virtual Reality (VR). Google Daydream View VR (virtual reality) Headset Photo: Ian Truong Technology has also changed and shaped the One suburban school has taken things to a exciting times ahead. There could be new such as motion sickness or visual or hearing form in which individuals use their devices. whole new level. St Agatha’s Primary School markets for entertainment and solutions to help impairments. Desktop computers (and later laptops), brick- in Cranbourne was the first to incorporate under-resourced schools address overcrowded If the use of an iPad in the classroom sized monochrome mobile phones and pocket- these VR classes in its science program classrooms, as students could take classes arguably increases inequality, being sized stylus tablets were the trend back in the (Cranbourne Leader, 22/9/16). They include a without a teacher being present and could, unaffordable for some but not others, then VR 1990s and 2000s, but a revolution came with wide range of activities, videos and interactive for instance, watch their own personal lesson would further discriminate against people with the tablet, namely the iPad. Apple Inc first games that help with a student’s learning. about ancient civilisations in high definition! special needs. The outcome for most devices introduced their iPad model in 2010, after their Inspired by a VR event hosted by Google in The biggest challenge for a high-tech has surpassed the expectation of their original initial successful venture into the smartphone May last year, which welcomed developers, classroom is the cost. For many schools, purpose. However, when VR becomes popular, market in 2007, under the watchful eye of the retailers, users and educators promoting upgrading to new technology such as VR it should provide a solution to problems with late Steve Jobs. their up-and-coming VR devices, it is no is totally out-of-reality. Not to mention delivering education, and not just be a new Since then, iPads and tablets have become exaggeration to say the world has some potential wellbeing issues facing individuals, device to distract us. Make a positive impact on a young person’s future!
Zange Oldfield
hitelion is a not-for-profit organisation that provides ser- Wvices to young people from diverse backgrounds. The organisation, whose head office is in West Melbourne, has a number of mentoring programs that reach young people who are involved with the Out-of-Home Care and Youth Justice systems. Mentoring focuses on purposeful volun- tary relationships in which dedicated men- tors help young people develop a positive sense of self whilst building supportive and useful connections with their community. Whitelion is constantly recruiting enthusi- astic individuals to support vulnerable young people. These mentors provide the guidance and encouragement often missing from a young person’s life. Whitelion’s one-to-one mentoring programs empower young people through sustained connection, reassuring them that people care, even when life seems overwhelming. The many benefits of mentoring for young people include greater connection with the community, strengthened personal relation- ships, improved self-esteem and a sense of stability. The young people are matched with appropriately skilled mentors who are able to provide advice and encouragement in their employment and education goals. One young woman described a great ex- perience with her mentor: “The highlight of our match was when Anne came with me to the first ultrasound for my baby.” Being a mentor is often a rewarding expe- rience. In the words of one such volunteer: “It’s the ability to support another person throughout their journey and providing them with stability and hope. Providing them with A young person and his mentor at one of Whitelion’s many community events Photo: courtesy Whitelion the tools and support network so that they support for the duration of the mentoring Whitelion runs four recruitment rounds ev- more details on (03) 8354 0800 or email can be the best they can be.” [email protected]. All Whitelion volunteers complete a relationship. ery year. The remaining information sessions screening and training process before being To find out more, go along to a volunteer this year will be in April, July and October. Zange Oldfield is a mentor coordinator at matched with a young person, with ongoing recruitment information session! Please phone the mentoring admin team for Whitelion. 14 EDUCATION & TECHNOLOGY North and West Melbourne News AUTUMN 2017 Supportive learning environment for new arrivals
Cliff Rundle but want to improve. Beginner and introducto- • Courses in Spoken and Written English Those who would like to volunteer are also ry computer courses and a range of community (CSWE) at the preliminary level and lev- welcome. There are opportunities to volunteer events and activities are also on offer. (See els I, II and III. Students are assessed and in the classroom as a teacher’s assistant, as a orth Melbourne Language and Learn- NMLL’s separate article in this edition about placed in the correct course according to one-on-one tutor and for special events. These ing Inc (NMLL) is an Adult Learning the community events coming up.) their skills; are skilled roles so training is provided. Centre and Neighbourhood House The events and courses are available for • the Australian Migrant Education Program More information and images of NMLL tuckedN away on the ground floor of the north- those who live in North Melbourne and sur- (AMEP), which provides education for new are available from the NMLL website at ernmost tower of the public housing estate at rounding suburbs. People who have recently and recent arrivals who meet the eligibility www.nmll.org.au and Facebook page, www. 33 Alfred Street, North Melbourne. or newly arrived in Melbourne, including requirements; and facebook.com/vNMLL/ NMLL has been working with the diverse people seeking asylum, are also very welcome. • the Skills for Education and Employment NMLL can also be contacted by email at communities of North Melbourne for more NMLL also provides training for long-term program (SEE), which is for unemployed [email protected] or by calling Marie or than 25 years, offering English language unemployed people who are referred from Job people referred by Job Active services. Tewodros on 9326 7447. courses and a variety of other courses ad- Active services. The AMEP and SEE courses are free for We pride ourselves on being friendly and dressing local needs, and staging community Classes and events are stimulating, fun and eligible students. Fees apply for the CSWE helpful. If you think we can help you or a events. supportive and designed to connect and engage courses. The fees payable are determined by friend, please get in touch. In 2017 NMLL is offering English language students with the local and broader commu- the student’s circumstances and eligibility for courses for those who are starting to learn the nity. a government-funded place. Most students pay Cliff Rundle is the general manager at North language through to those who are proficient The main courses on offer are: the concession fee of $120 for the year. Melbourne Language and Learning.
Students outside North Melbourne Language and Learning in Alfred Street Photo: courtesy NMLL
Errol Street Medical General Practice, Specialists & Allied Health Centre We welcome our new podiatrist, Sam Besnek. Sam has extensive experience in podiatry and can offer a City North Physiotherapy wide range of services including diabetes assessments, PHYSIOTHERAPY CLINIC Massage dry needling, nail care and orthotics. Bulk-billing is available for patients under the Enhanced Primary Care Plan. Pilates OPENING HOURS: Monday to Friday 9am to 5.30pm Saturday 9am to 1pm 59 Errol Street Level 1, 65–67 Errol Street, North Melbourne 3051 (above the Pharmacy) North Melbourne 03 9329 7011 city Now you can book your appointments ONLINE! Open Monday to Saturday north Key “Errol Street Medical Centre” into your search engine physiotherapy clinic BULK-BILLING FOR CONCESSION CARD HOLDERS AUTUMN 2017 North and West Melbourne News SPORT & HEALTH 15
sport & health Voices, vision, action for global public health
Katrina Kincade-Sharkey the University of Canberra. A former minister ing evidence-based scientific research into real thank God, but in West Africa, where the lack for health and community care in the ACT action,” Mr Moore explained, before detailing of capacity to handle it was mammoth, the Legislative Assembly, he holds the distinction objectives for the expected 2500 congress par- disease was horrendously fatal. ublic health threats to the Western world of being Australia’s first elected independent ticipants. “We want to understand what is needed to differ markedly from those in the Third minister in either a state or federal parliament. “Threats to health are the same everywhere, prevent these diseases so we can enact those World in both their capacity for outbreak He held his seat for four consecutive terms so the major focus has always been on sick- prevention steps in primary health care,” he P from 1989 to 2001. ness care. That’s treatment and resolution of said. and potential for treatment, but neither their occurrence nor effects should ever be assumed He was elected WFPHA president in 2016. sicknesses, but we want to switch the focus to Capacity, information and good governance unlikely anywhere on the planet. Aiming to analyse and share local, regional sickness prevention. Sure, outcomes often take were also needed here, the president claimed. Thousands of international health specialists and global public health lessons, particularly five to 10 years to record, but results are very “We should question corporate donations to are Melbourne-bound for the 15th World Con- on gender and discrimination, congress speak- broad and often more positive. political parties by pharmaceutical compa- gress on Public Health, 3–7 April, to examine ers span the gamut of public health operators. “Clean water and sanitation are major needs nies, amongst others, and also the influence in the developing world,” he said, grimacing. those donors have. For instance, how do the the effective translation of evidence-based They include the 1996 Nobel Medicine win- ner, Melbourne University Laureate Professor “It’s hardly relevant in Australia — except for vested interests of alcohol, tobacco and gam- science into active treatment and cures. Peter Doherty, who now spends part of each many Aboriginal communities — but water bling steer our governments away from evi- This is Australia’s first hosting of the con- year at St Jude Children’s Research Hospital in and sanitation are fundamental needs every- dence-based public health policy?” he queried. gress, which has been booked for Melbourne Memphis, where he continues his research into where for the maintenance of public health.” Smoking’s hazards and the benefits of its Convention Centre by the World Federation of preventing the severe effects of influenza virus Congress organisers received some 2000 cessation will be measured by several speak- Public Health Associations (WFPHA). infection in juniors. submissions for paper delivery. “But the com- ers, who will argue that the enormous revenue WFPHA president Michael Moore, who World Health Organisation department of mon, the universal, underlying theme for those from worldwide tobacco taxation absolutely holds a Masters in Population Health, believes nutrition medical officer Dr Alessandro De- papers was that wealth breeds health,” said must leverage a new angle on comprehensive the congress will highlight his career’s themes. maio trained at Melbourne’s Alfred hospital. Mr Moore. “There’s a straight line on all our tobacco control. These are to engage medical professionals’ While practising, he also completed his Mas- graphs between the capacity to handle any dis- Among myriad other public health mat- diverse voices, ideas, visions and actions with ters in Public Health, including diabetes field- ease and the amount of money — the amount ters the congress will learn about pathways their patients’ concerns to strengthen and work in Cambodia. Dr Demaio co-founded the of effort — that’s invested in its eradication. to health equity in the Asia–Pacific region; transform global public health efforts. millennial global social movement NCDFREE “Congress’s concern with capacity is sup- violence against women and girls; sexual and Also the CEO of the Public Health Associa- in 2013. ported by the remote chances of an outbreak of reproductive health; and the campaign to erad- tion of Australia, Mr Moore is a PhD scholar at “Congress will examine effectively translat- the Ebola virus in Australia. It’s minimal here, icate HIV, hepatitis C and hepatitis B by 2030.
travel & food World champion in both life and the ring Sarah Biron than menacing. I found this a lot of fun.” Greco attributes his drive to a deep-seated dislike of complacency. orld karate and kickboxing champi- “I have always wanted success, regardless on Sam Greco attributes part of his of the arena or setting. I love the challenge success to having being bullied at and overcoming something I find difficult or W that others think I cannot achieve. I thrive on school as a small boy. “The taunts were mostly racist. I was excluded from traditional Austra- pushing myself … You achieve nothing in a lian sports because I was ‘just a wog’,” he said. comfort zone.” “My experience with other kids early on set He believes other people would describe a mindset that I would always defend myself. him as “unexpected”. In my day, we didn’t necessarily report teasing “Physically they have said I look mean, and bullying to teachers, rather I was taught by aggressive or tough. After speaking to me, Dad that I had to back myself. It was always numerous people have expressed their surprise emphasised to me that I should never instigate that I am not a meat-head and that I can actual- confrontation but rather ensure that I wasn’t ly think and express myself at the same time! weak if faced with challenges.” “How I see myself lacks controversy or Growing up in Brunswick, his Italian-born surprise. I am a fighter. It is in my blood. I father, Vittorio, encouraged him to play soccer fight for myself, against myself, for others and at an early age. with others. I fight adversity, oppression and The owner of Don Camillo Cafe and Restau- bullying. I embody everything that a fighter is, rant in West Melbourne, Greco is surrounded not in the physical sense, but in the sense of by hundreds of sporting memorabilia from mental fortitude, focus, willpower, honesty and AFL, boxing, kickboxing, soccer and athletics. integrity,” he explained. Most pieces are priceless, personally signed by “I am disciplined and still value the power the athlete, he said. inherent in not instigating fights, though en- “For example, I have a signed picture of suring I am strong enough to withstand the Dermott Brereton in the ’99 grand final when pressure if faced with a challenge. Whether the he broke his ribs. The image shows him being challenge is financial, emotional or physical, I held by his trainer in a moment of anguish, am a fighter and will always stand up.” refusing to leave the field. Greco’s philosophy of life includes being “I am surrounded by images of victory and accountable for his actions and making the hard work, whether they be Mohammed Ali, world a better place. the footy legends of old and every other athlete “I have been blessed in so many ways. who has put his heart and body on the line for It’s hands-on for Sam Greco, owner of Don Camillo Cafe Photo: Jim Weatherill That doesn’t make me better than anyone else their sport. In moments of stress, I only need but rather puts me in a position laden with to look at the walls for inspiration and moti- and suddenly my ethnicity was irrelevant to changed disciplines. The journey was ultimate- the responsibility of helping others with less vation.” my peers because I was good at something.” ly more valuable than the end achievements strength or fortitude than I. He is involved in every aspect of his busi- With his unstoppable mindset, Greco won regardless of the discipline. In some ways my “I am a fighter and my philosophy is that we ness from ordering produce to taking orders the Karate World Cup championship a thou- success in kickboxing gives me a sense of are all fighters if we look deep within ourselves. and cleaning tables. sand times in his imagination before he even pride because I know how hard I worked to I consider family, health and good company the Greco did not like karate at first and only stepped into the ring but it still made him feel transition into sport, then achieve success and most important things and in that order.” participated because it reflected many of his on top of the world. finally recognition.” Greco is starting a new campaign, ‘I AM father’s principles of discipline, hard work and “All of a sudden my hard work, dedication Reflecting on his acting career, which in- A FIGHTER’. The goal is to “empower oth- focus. He went on to play soccer for Bruns- and focus had paid off.” cluded a small part in Underbelly, Greco said ers through various avenues, whether it be wick Juventus for 10 years. This was part of He sees winning the super heavyweight he enjoyed the ability to be somebody else. individually, with groups or as a community the National Soccer League, the equivalent of kickboxing championships as an achievement “To tap into a side of myself that I rarely campaign”. His website will be launched at the the A-League today. equal to his spectacular karate success. showed anyone outside my inner circle. I most- end of this month informing people about the “It was an amazing time. I would play then “You see, what I perhaps more valued is ly enjoyed the comedy parts I played because various businesses he is involved in such as race home after school and watch a replay of the fight that qualified me to enter the cham- it was such a juxtaposition. This big, burly guy personal training, public speaking and commu- the game on SBS. I was the little school hero pionships, or the very first fight I won when I who looked mean acting silly and soft rather nity fundraising. 16 TRAVEL & FOOD North and West Melbourne News AUTUMN 2017 Pinoy magic for our tastebuds and their youth
Katrina Kincade-Sharkey having prepared family meals with his mother since his seventh birthday, always following family rules of freshness, taste and variety. ide assortments of style and finesse His main course specialties include Crispy stroll along Errol these warm au- Pata, or pork legs; American Beef Ribs; Slow- tumn afternoons, many souls saun- cooked Duck in Orange; Chicken Adobo; and W Kare Kare, or oxtail, each exploding with fla- tering idly past number 50, Reynaldo’s Grills and Sizzles, their senses tempted by the sight, vour and all accompanied by healthy noodles sound and smell of sumptuous Philippine — or with vegetables or salad. Pinoy — cuisine served within. But there’s more to this place than just su- That assortment is not necessarily wallet- perb taste, style and comfort. Reynaldo’s life driven folk: loaded with individuality and partner and mother of his two sons, wife Dory modish expression, they’re best observed from Aban, greets customers just like a national Reynaldo’s interior, or under the cover of its promotion. The former assistant nursing unit umbrella-ed pavement tables. manager at Western Hospital in Sunshine is the Those idling dandies and their ladies would joint founder of Hope of Melbourne Colleges be well advised to join the growing number Foundation (HoM). of locals and visitors lured by master chef Established in 2007 by locally resident Reynaldo Aban’s delicious, healthy and cost- Philippine teachers and business people, it effective Pinoy tastes. provides aid funding to house and school pen- Sited within a few doors of The Centre, niless senior secondary students back in their adjacent to the Lithuanian Club and directly homeland. opposite Parkhill Cellars, this restaurant’s Awaiting registration as a charity with ASIC massive, dark-tinted windows front spotless, and already holding an ABN, the foundation stylish premises open seven days a week for operates in Pangasinan Province on the island breakfast, lunch and dinner. of Luzon, several hours’ drive north of Manila, The water is chilled and chef Reynaldo’s the capital. Most of its current students are cuisine is good, authentically good. This writ- fully sponsored by HoM scholarships. er is well acquainted with a variety of Pinoy The foundation launched with 90 students; it has nearly doubled in size since, currently tastes, having survived several editorial stints Restaurateurs and philanthropists Dory and Reynaldo Aban Photo: Jim Weatherill in that country pre, during and post Cory Aqui- graduating 175 students each year. No govern- no’s insurrection as president of The Philip- ment funding is available for such programs lives,” she frowns. by people who truly understand the pain, the pines from 1986 to 1992. in The Philippines, so foundation teachers, “Living in villages of thatched huts, sleeping need, the fight to survive that’s fought daily Whilst fortunate back then, the mandatory administrators, pastoral care advisors, finance on cardboard ‘sheets’ and using their arms as by some 85 per cent of their population,” she passage of long-term martial-law dictator Fer- and HR officers and cleaners, as well as two pillows, everything is hand-me-down. That’s says. dinand Marcos in the mid-1980s, and then the assistants, survive on HoM donations. everything from clothes and toys to school “And to understand that pain,” her husband assumption of power by Aquino as Asia’s first Melbourne businesses are also donors. books and homewares, from the odd blanket interjects, “they must have lived it.” female head of state, failed to deliver more Melton Health donated 30 of its used comput- on cold nights to personal combs or brushes.” The caring nurse remembers the agony of than an inkling of the political or social free- ers, which Dory then shipped to the college in Caressing her hand, her husband adds: seeing young people’s stomachs bloated from doms dreamt of for generations by Pinoys. Umingan city for student use. “They have nothing of their own and we malnutrition: “That’s deathly hunger, but if Among The Philippines’ current 103.1 mil- HoM’s aim is to educate these intellectually couldn’t allow it to continue. We couldn’t turn they survive it’s a pain those kids never for- lion population (correct at 21 January 2017 gifted students to the level where they can a blind eye …” get.” based on latest UN estimates) settled on some enrol in information technology or hospitality Reynaldo and Dory took two weeks’ leave Reynaldo again: “And when they recover 2000 habitable islands, rampant poverty re- courses for two years in preparation for full- in January to visit family and friends back in — with Dory’s group’s support — memory of mains entrenched. time employment. The Philippines, along with overseeing the their terrible battle with poverty might allow Spread over 300,000 square kilometres — TESDA — the local Technical Education start of the school year for their resident year our home country to develop into a much fair- or 115,831 square miles — The Philippines’ and Skills Development Authority — then 11 and 12 students at HoM’s Umingan cam- er society in every way. That means with mon- archipelago formally comprises 7107 islands gives students funding for its special 45-day IT pus. ey, with schooling for everyone — like here in in total, which are divided into three main geo- course, through which many HoM graduates “They come to us in such a shocking state, Australia — and maybe even political fairness. graphic regions: the northern Luzon, central have qualified. both physically and emotionally, yet they What a dream.” Visayas and southern Mindanao regions. “There’s massive demand for both IT work- are so naturally clever and so determined to Simultaneously reaching for the other’s Reynaldo’s culinary flavours draw widely ers and tourism specialists throughout both succeed that it is impossible to deny them the hand, this pair have a true partnership. on his native land’s climatic and taste varieties. The Philippines and the rest of the world,” chance to follow those dreams. Every young- Several authentic starters, such as Kalabasa Dory explains, “but relatively few oppor- ster should be allowed to dream,” Dory pleads. Donations to Hope of Melbourne School of sa Gata, a creamy pumpkin, ginger, garlic and tunities for the great majority of our Pinoy “These young people are the life and soul of Arts & Trade Foundation, c/o Dory Aban, may coconut milk soup, truly whet the appetite for youngsters to achieve any definitive education Pinoy future, so for it to ever develop an equal, be forwarded to 50 Errol Street, North Mel- this master’s main courses. or training.” a fair, or democratic society, it must be run bourne, and will be gratefully receipted. And later, his luscious desserts — for those Hunching over a polished stone table who’ve starved before dining to fit them in — during the restaurant’s post-lunch lull, this including the classic Leche Elan, Halo Halo glorious lady demonstrates the nurse she must and Turones de Saqing, or slices of banana and have been. Caringly concerned, inquisitive, Recipe: Crispy skin salmon and caponata salad jackfruit in crepe, bring dinner to a delicious efficient, exacting and highly effective, her conclusion. medical and social consciousness takes over. by Ian Truong Chef Reynaldo, now 62, is a lifelong cook, “These kids have had to battle their entire A traditional Italian salad goes with a beloved into cubes. Remove fresh basil leaves for Atlantic fish! A dish that is fancy enough to salad topping. be served in any fine dining place but also 4. Check if capsicums are well roasted then 4 Weeks of FREE Zumba simple enough to cook at home. With 30 min- cut in strips and clear all seeds. utes prepping and cooking time and a bottle of 5. Heat oil in saucepan over high heat, put No catches, no fine print, no excuses! wine, a weekend dinner for two is set! salmon fillet in with skin side down, leave for 5–8 minutes then turn to check the Ingredients (serves two people) crispness. Continue applying high heat for 2 pieces of salmon fillet with skin on (approxi- the whole process. mately 150g each) 6. If the skin is crispy, turn to the other side 3 capsicums with different colours and continue applying high heat for another 1 large eggplant two minutes or more until the salmon flesh 1 bunch of fresh basil becomes firm and colour changes to light 1 red onion pink. Remove salmon and leave it to rest 3 gloves of garlic on a plate. Capers Lime or lemon 7. Add vegetable oil, eggplant, capers and red What: FREE Zumba dance-inspired fi tness classes, for everybody including beginners onion and stir-fry until eggplant is cooked. Where: SOKOL House, 497 Queensberry Street, NORTH MELBOURNE Vegetable oil/extra virgin olive oil, salt, pepper Optional: 1 bunch of asparagus Add asparagus if desired. When: First class is Monday 20 March 2017 @ 6.30pm 8. Mix cooked eggplant, capers, red onion and Why: We are launching Zumba Night and we want to get fi t and party with YOU capsicum with extra virgin olive oil then How: Book yourself in and out of any class at www.facebook.com/MyBodyBuddyAUS/ Preparation and cooking add salt/pepper to taste. Info: www.shanmaxwell.zumba.com 1. Brush vegetable oil on capsicums then roast with garlic in oven at 200°C for 20 minutes. 9. Plate up salmon and the caponata salad, 2. Apply salt on salmon skin and rub in well. topping with fresh basil leaves and lime or NB: The MBB 4 weeks of free Zumba classes trial is available from 20 March to 10 April 2017 inclusive. Leave at room temperature. lemon juice. Classes will resume on 24 April 2017 at a special introductory rate (under $10 per class). 3. Thinly slice red onion and dice eggplant 10. Enjoy! AUTUMN 2017 North and West Melbourne News ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT 17
arts & entertainment Between the Covers More migrant turmoil Chris Saliba Katrina Kincade-Sharkey humble, natural beauty of inner Melbourne’s untouched regions, Ken ambling along pristine river trails, hiking along overgrown freeway Margaret the First Interestingly, for a country where the en’s Quest is transitional: it traces culverts and watching all sorts of people living Danielle Dutton economy is thought to be everything, we the financially stressed journey of a their gentle lives in Melbourne’s inner north- (Scribe. RRP: $29.99) feel more emphasis needs to be put on social KChinese engineer who emigrates to west. values. We grumble about difficult changes his idyllic resources-rich, politically stable, Those images of the too-good-to-be-true so- that need to be made, but would prefer that our racially tolerant ‘land down under’ to achieve ciety into which he’s attempting to move cer- loathed politicians implement unpopular laws his life’s dream — to provide unlimited wealth tainly fail to meet Ken’s — or his author’s — to force us to meet the challenges we face. and its lifestyle ease for himself and his family. expectations. “Our cross-cultural, multi-ethnic Still Lucky is valuable reading. It shows Intending to sponsor their move to his new that underneath the griping and perennial land centred in West Brunswick and Footscray, Australian society provides no platform for worrying we value fairness and community. Ken — or Wei Da, as his parents named him genuine communication with people just ar- If our politics seems stuck at the moment, it’s — needs residency papers, their work permits rived,” Cher frowns, before noting examples because we need to give our politicians some stipulating youthful applicants and/or an of joint discrimination by new settlers and more leeway. Aussie partner to marry and build a new life. established Aussies. Having lost his first wife to cancer when their second Boo! child, a daughter, was a baby, Ben Newman middle-aged Ken is slowly de- Margaret Cavendish (1623–1673) was an (Flying Eye Books. RRP: $24.99) veloping a single-parent men- English aristocrat, poet, scientist, playwright tality, having left the children and philosopher. An early feminist figure, with his older brother at his she wrote that she would be remembered as mother’s home in Shanghai. Margaret the First, just as King Charles was Simultaneously coming to called Charles the First. She is considered to terms with widowhood, his be the first woman who penned books under daughter’s disability and his her own name (women usually published young son’s homosexual ten- anonymously) and her prose tale The Blazing dencies and too-friendly be- World (1666) is one of the earliest examples of haviour with a primary-school science fiction. friend, Ken’s tertiary degree In Margaret the First, American novelist “Hey! Would you like to know a secret?” asks and career credentials are not Danielle Dutton has written a fictional account a tiny mouse. “No one is as brave as me and accepted here. His plan has hit of the trailblazing Cavendish. Written at a nothing scares me … you’ll see!” Turn the immigration reality, these cir- cracking pace, this is a dizzying ride through page and Boo! A big owl has descended. The cumstances highlighting condi- 17th century intellectual, scientific and cultural cute little mouse is scared indeed and makes tions experienced by many, but life. Cavendish was active in philosophical a run for it. Now it’s the owl’s turn to gloat. their acute individual effects circles, engaging with such leading figures “Hoot Hoot! Bravery is my middle name and are well documented here by as Thomas Hobbes, René Descartes and nothing scares me … you’ll see!” author Cher Chidzey. Robert Boyle. She was the first woman to Turn the page and Boo! A monkey has Having arrived from Singa- attend the Royal Society of London, an event appeared to scare the owl! And on and on it pore as a student in 1975, Cher wonderfully re-created by Dutton. goes — a crocodile says Boo! to the monkey, graduated with a Bachelor of Margaret the First provides a vibrant and a tiger says Boo! to the crocodile, an elephant Sciences from Monash Univer- colourful imagining of Margaret Cavendish’s says Boo! to the tiger. What could possibly sity, then took her masters from life and times. Dutton throws in many scare an elephant, the biggest animal of them the University of Melbourne, fascinating details and descriptions — of food, all? Boo! The little mouse of course. before teaching secondary and dress and domestic arrangements — that make From the illustrator of Professor Astro Author Cher Chidzey Photo: Jim Weatherill tertiary mathematics. She wrote the story leap off the page. Ultimately, there is Cat’s Frontiers of Space comes this children’s curriculum and conducted work- a pathos to Dutton’s Cavendish: an energetic picture book with a big surprise and infectious shops for TAFE teachers from 1990 to 2000. Cher’s Ken’s Quest volume is a comfy, yet intellectual spirit, shackled by the times, laugh on each page. The excitement builds This young lecturer took pride in nurturing exacting, compilation of one potential mi- ridiculed, who died before her time and under- as you try to figure out which animal it is students’ inherent problem-solving skills, en- grant’s journey through a ‘new’ life. What it appreciated. hiding in the shadows, ready to pounce. The couraging them to explore different cultures substantially shows is that prejudice is a uni- illustrations are bright, bold and colourful, sure throughout their youth before considering the versal trait unrestricted to yanks, to poms, or to delight children and adults alike. The clever complexity of human relationships “and the wogs, or chinks, to afros or to blacks. All of us Still Lucky cover features two cut-out Os that actually tribal voice in their hearts”, a voice she argues need to see through recipient — or victim — Rebecca Huntley reveal themselves to be crocodile eyes when we should all appreciate. eyes and urgently adopt decent attitudes and (Viking. RRP: $35) you open the book. As now an Asian ‘new’ Australian of more fair behaviour before we have any notion of a Ages 3+ than 40 years Cher is well acquainted with free and equal society. the fragility of migrant life — and the plight Chris Saliba is co-owner of North Melbourne of asylum seekers, many of whom appear in Ken’s Quest by Cher Chidzey is published by Books, 546 Queensberry Street, and a regular Footscray and West Brunswick scenes in Ken’s Melbourne’s Threekookaburras and sells for contributor to the News. Quest. And her writing shows her love of the $29.95.
Greengate Consultants — Mental Health Practitioners 436 William Street, West Melbourne 3003 • www.greengateconsultants.com.au • Phone: 0456 683 785
Greengate Consultants are your local professional Dr Rebecca Huntley is one of Australia’s counsellors, mentors and life skill coaches. leading social researchers. Huntley visits If you are: the homes of Australians from all over the continent, sits with them in groups and • Dissatisfi ed at work then simply listens. In Still Lucky: Why you • Lost in an unhappy relationship should feel optimistic about Australia and its • Desperate to move forward after a bad experience people, Huntley paints a nuanced picture of • Unable to change unhealthy habits the nation’s mood. What do we fear, what are • Simply … stuck in a rut we optimistic about, where do we think the country is going? You may just need a helping hand! A Greengate Consultant The results make for fascinating reading. can help you make the positive changes required for the Despite the way we are reflected in the lifestyle you deserve! Donʼt wait until your problems become media as mad-as-hell voters who’ve had it overwhelming. Enquire online or ring today to book an up to here, in research groups we’re a nervy, appointment. A doctorʼs referral is NOT necessary. One-to-one anxious, pessimistic lot, worried about where personal sessions and support group sessions are available. Feel comfortable in a safe environment. technology, increased population growth and competition from China are taking us. Opening Hours: Mon to Fri 9am to 5pm • Sat, Sun and Public Holidays by appointment only 18 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT North and West Melbourne News AUTUMN 2017
Poets’ Page
The Strength of ‘Us’ North Scratch My Name Into Emily Chan Melbourne the Feet of Statues
I left home in Vancouver on a cool night in fall, Sarah Biron Angus Cameron All my bags were packed and ready to take on it all.
“It’ll be the trip of a lifetime,” my friends would say, untrammelled light They promised that I was going to change, in some floods wide, wide streets way. room to breathe and dream As the plane left the tarmac, my heart braced for the shy streets change; wild streets But not knowing the changes, and not knowing the deceptive, sly streets range. ordinary and surreal houses with wrought-iron Scratch my name into the feet of statues My mind has since been racing with concerns of this edges kind, Learning that our worst enemy can be our own mind. bogan burgers, stubbies Around the world; write me into being; I unravel my tangled Instead of filling with pressure, I filled up with love, thoughts Searching for spaces and places that would rise and unwind On the spotless walls of the avenues above. to the relaxed tempo I’ve found neighbourhood houses where I love what life once had Re-scrawl my name with love everlasting. they do, Holden Street, The Centre, Collingwood, to name a Don’t turn me into marble, bronze or gold, few. If there’s something to learn, it’s that community’s Don’t portrait me to then hang on the wall, key, They help open hearts and minds to what others can’t see. Or, worse still, to collect dust and grow old They create warmth for those who often feel most alone, Lying silently, forgotten to all. Those who have had more strife and hardship than SHORT STORY most have known. COMPETITION 2017 Write, write, write and then rewrite me once more! It’s been hard to follow the recent news in our world, With elections, war and disasters that make minds TOPIC: Your choice For when you revive me I will live on swirl. LENGTH: Maximum 2000 words Each day becomes tougher to avoid feeling dour, ELIGIBILITY: Open to non-professional Hearing hateful propaganda by those in power. writers only. Not open to members of the And on — it’s impossible to ignore News editorial team When people are told their love, culture or race is DEADLINE: Close of business Monday 24 wrong, What’s immortalised in a lexicon. It is vital for communities to stand up strong. April 2017 SEND TO: [email protected] with This is a time where communities have diverse forms, “Short story competition” in the subject Online, offline, small or big, they’re all changing the line. Submit as a Word document typed Time is long and so difficult to best: norms. in 1.5 line spacing. Include your name, It’s the strength of our differences that let us address and telephone number I need your help, reader, to stand this test. connect, FIRST PRIZE: Best entry will receive a And flourish communities of care, love and respect. $500 cash prize Trip of a lifetime? My friends need not be corrected; ENQUIRIES: The Centre, 9328 1126 I’m honoured for friendships and memories collected. The winning entry will be published in the But community is more than an ‘I’ and a ‘you’; Winter 2017 edition of NWMN. With community as ‘us’, imagine what we could do. The judges’ decision is final and no corre- spondence will be entered into. AUTUMN 2017 North and West Melbourne News ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT 19 Hidden treasures in our midst
Frances McMillan
osemary Johns, a North Melbourne resident for the past 12 years, walked Rthrough the door of The Centre to be- come a tutor in the Home Away From Home- work Club a year or so ago. Rosemary Johns’ acclaimed play As Told by the Boys Who Fed Me Apples depicts the poi- gnant story of Sandy, one of 136,000 warhors- es sent to the WW1 battlefields, and his close and enduring bonds with the men he served with overseas. Rosemary believes that Sandy’s story in fact ‘found her’ through a conversation with the grand-daughter of a man whose warhorse wasn’t repatriated. The story of Sandy epito- mises the rollicking companionship and tender relationships between the men and their horses in the most horrific circumstances. Under the direction of Greg Carroll, with just two actors (André Jewson and Miklos Gerely) on a patch of sand, we are taken on a journey to the heart of the companionship, North Melbourne playwright Rosemary Johns tenderness and love that existed between the Photo: courtesy Rosemary Johns different men and Sandy the horse as they shared and endured the horrors and deep Sandy returned to Melbourne in November wounds of war. 1918, now 11 years old, accompanied by his The story we witness is heart-wrenchingly groom, Private Archibald Jordan. Sandy was sad and yet life-affirming. The profundity of retired to the Maribyrnong Remount Depot the emotional landscape explored in the play where he “grazed and lazed” until he died a is magnified by the simplicity of the set and legend in 1923. Private Jordan died just three design and the haunting soundtrack created by months later of tuberculosis, or a broken heart, Michael Havir (of Melbourne Ska Orchestra). and lies in an unmarked grave in Box Hill Cemetery. Rosemary Johns discovered a group named Sandy was the only warhorse to Friends of Sandy and the Australian Light be returned alive to Australia. Horse, which is determined to preserve and honour Sandy and other Australian warhorses. Members of this group have fought for over 25 Supported by the Australian Government’s years to commemorate these equine warriors Anzac Centenary Arts and Culture Fund, Rose- and recently received a grant from the Anzac mary’s research involved tracing the odyssey Centenary Arts and Culture Fund to commis- of this one horse right back to his birth in sion a sculpture of Sandy, to be placed at the Tallangatta in 1907. The O’Donnell brothers, old stables behind the Maribyrnong Commu- local brickmakers, donated Sandy to the Aus- nity Centre. tralian effort upon the outbreak of WW1. Sandy made his way, by ship, to Alexandria, Egypt, and due to his gentle nature was chosen All these layers, forgotten stories by Major General Sir William Bridges as his and forgotten people are brought La Mama flyer for the play Image: courtesy La Mama Theatre favourite. Man and horse became well known to light in Rosemary’s powerful to the troops as a formidable pair until Bridges went to Gallipoli. There shot and killed by play. a Turkish sniper, his dying wish was for the horse to be returned to Duntroon. The Friends of Sandy and the Australian Sandy didn’t make it to Duntroon but he Light Horse gave their full support and provid- was the only warhorse to be returned alive to ed research material for As Told by the Boys Australia. Who Fed Me Apples, and all these layers, for- The next chapter charts Sandy’s turn as a gotten stories and forgotten people are brought Rosemary’s plays have been produced at Carl- Stockholm, Mumbai and Athens. working horse at the veterinary hospital in to light in Rosemary’s powerful play. ton’s La Mama, Fortyfivedownstairs, Playbox As Told by the Boys Who Fed Me Apples is Calais. As part of the veterinary unit Sandy The play was nominated for a 2016 AWGIE and Footscray’s Big West Festival, as well as playing at La Mama Courthouse from was not sent to the front but was ridden out to award and has been selected for study in the shelled villages by vets trying to reach wound- VCE Drama and Theatre Studies Playlist for Sydney’s New Theatre and Twelfth Night The- 22 March to 2 April. For bookings phone ed animals. 2017. atre in Brisbane. Some have been presented in Maureen Hartley on 9347 6948.
Jane loves her job and enjoys all aspects of Premier Health General Practice. Her primary interests include Women’s Health, Mental Health, Chronic Partners Disease Prevention and Management, Palliative Care, Integrative Medicine and Education. Family Medical Centre
New Patients Welcome
Dr Margaret McDowell 9329 7077 Dr Alan Underwood Dr Paul O’Keefe (Osteopath) 491–495 King Street West Melbourne We are delighted to welcome to the Dr Jane Habib practice our new GP, Dr Jane Habib. www.premierhealthpartners.com.au General Practitioner 20 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT North and West Melbourne News AUTUMN 2017