Star Weekly - Sunbury Macedon Ranges - 7th December 2021 by Star Weekly

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Time to fly With travel back on the cards this holiday season, Victorians can finally get out the calendar and revisit plans that were put on hold by the pandemic. For nine-year-old Flynn, top of his list is Victor Harbor in South Australia, where he can see the sights and spend time with family he hasn’t seen in months. Flynn and his family will spend a week in South Australia in mid-January, where they’ll also try to cram in a visit to the famous Port Elliot Bakery, as well as find time for a dip at the beach. “I want to go and hang out with my cousins,” Flynn said. “I’m looking forward to going to the water park.” A Melbourne Airport spokesperson confirmed they are expecting more than 2500 weekly domestic flights arriving and departing Melbourne and about 170 international weekly flights.

Flynn and his sister Amelia can’t wait to visit their family in Adelaide.

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Apartment plan ‘a blight’ By Oliver Lees An application for a six-storey apartment building in the heart of Sunbury has drawn mixed reactions, with some residents concerned the development will permanently alter the town’s character. The application for a planning permit to construct the six-storey building was posted outside 52 O’Shannassy Street last week. The advertising document specifies a plan to construct 25 apartments, a basement car park, onsite retail premises and an office. The document also states the project would lead to a reduction in car parking.

Sunbury resident Chris Lord, who lives on Station Street just a short walk from the proposed development, said the building would be “a blight on the whole landscape”. “This is a real watershed moment, there’s never been anything like this in Sunbury,” Mr Lord said. “I could understand three-storeys, but six-storeys with a lift module? You’re talking 25 metres [in height]. “That’s not in keeping with the townscape. If this precedent is set, where applications are approved for six-storey high apartment blocks, we could see our whole town change dramatically in a short time.”

In an online post about the proposed development, some members of the community shared Mr Lord’s concerns, while others threw their support behind the project. “I’d love to see it, Sunbury needs [it] and will grow more. Embrace it,” one resident wrote. Another stated they were “just concerned about parking as it’s already a nightmare”. Sunbury Residents Association president Graham Williams said given that there are currently no buildings greater than two-storeys in the township, the size of this development “seems inappropriate”. “It’s just really out of character with the

town,” Mr Williams said. “I agree there’s always a need to improve affordable housing levels, but that’s the shopping precinct, more so than a residential precinct. “The fact that it creeps into the shopping precinct, it looks like it’s going to stick out like a sore thumb.” Hume councillor Jarrod Bell estimated that the application could be brought before council some time in the new year. Submissions and objections can be made until December 14. Details: www.hume.vic.gov.au/Buildingand-Planning/Statutory-Planning/

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Call for housing to be ‘reined in’ Horse enthusiast Jenn Hornstrand is concerned that a plan to develop Riddells Creek into denser housing lots will stifle the town’s strong equine culture. Growing up in a poor household, Ms Hornstrand said it had always been her dream to own a property where she could keep horses to ride around with her family. Now living on five acres in Riddells Creek, Ms Hornstrand is in a position to do exactly that, but worries that the town around her won’t be horse friendly as it develops. “We moved out of suburbia to have horses,

now our grandchildren are coming up the ranks and we want to have them enjoy equine time too,” Ms Hornstrand said. Ms Hornstrand’s concerns relate to the Riddells Creek Precinct Structure Plan (PSP), a first-of-its-kind planning document in the Macedon Ranges. The 2013 document lists the land north of Amess Road as a ‘priority residential development precinct’ and forms part of council’s overall strategy to accommodate urban growth. Star Weekly reported in 2019 that developer Sector Advantage would take on the project, with plans to create 1290 lots on a 131 hectare

site. Although she will still be able to keep horses on her own property, Ms Hornstrand said with many smaller properties planned for her town, the busier roads may not be appropriate for horse riding. “Amess Road has been targeted as suburbia, and I actually don’t have a problem with suburbia, because you’ve got to house your family,” she said. “What I’m saying is, Riddells Creek could have a symbiotic relationship with the developers if they were to also include and identify the needs of equine families with horse safe areas.” Ms Hornstrand said it should be in the interest

Musician Harry Nanos, screenwriter and director Paul Carter and film editor Jon Nanos all helped bring Lancefield Dreaming to life.

Smart bin idea awarded a green prize

(Supplied)

Tracing Lancefield’s long songlines “I started thinking that this kind of village community is such a good way for human beings to live, and that we need to preserve it.“ As the author of three books, Carter drew on his creative experience to develop the screenplay. Shooting the 28-minute project over the past few years, Carter and his team set about interviewing community members and raiding the history books. Carter said the documentary’s title refers to the Aboriginal concept of songlines which, through his research, he discovered to be a central component underpinning Lancefield’s special quality. It refers to the creation of channels of communication where knowledge from a 12526806-CG50-21

A documentary exploring the unique character of Lancefield will be featured on national television this Sunday. Developed by a team of four with a diverse skill set in the film industry, ‘Lancefield Dreaming’ dives into the town’s past to identify what has allowed it to maintain its character over the years. Having moved to Lancefield more than 30 years ago for his work as a general practitioner, Paul Carter said the idea for the documentary was born from his own desire to unlock why he felt so strongly about the township. “I’ve lived and worked in London and Melbourne, but when I came to Lancefield, I thought I’d died and gone to heaven,” Mr Carter said.

of council to provide such infrastructure, given the health benefits of horse riding. A Macedon Ranges spokesperson told Star Weekly that developments will be in keeping with Riddells Creek’s township character, but will not aim to provide for keeping farm animals such as horses. “The Amess Road Precinct Structure Plan envisions conventional residential development for Riddells Creek,” the spokesperson said. “Agisting horses is not an envisioned outcome for conventional residential areas. The Macedon Ranges Shire has a range of land areas that can be used for the use and keeping of horses.”

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certain location is passed down from generation to generation. “Before the project I hadn’t appreciated the significance of the local first people’s population,” he said. “I hadn’t realised that it was actually quite well-populated before white people first came, and that it was quite a civilised group of people. “Critical to looking after the friendliness and kindness is helping make the children aware of the specialness of their surroundings so that they can also join in the process of preservation.” Lancefield Dreaming will be featured on SBS at 5pm on Sunday, December 12.

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Killara Primary School has taken out a top sustainability prize for brainstorming a new way to reduce food waste. Pupils from the Sunbury-based school were awarded a food waste reduction strategy as part of six-week Future Resources program. Killara scored a total of 50 out of 60 for its pitch of a ‘Smart Bin System’. The idea includes connected consumers to their food purchases, with an app that allows you to scan each edible item you purchase from the store. The app provides directions for how to use and dispose of the item directly. When a food item is close to its expiration date, the app will prompt recipes on how to use it before it becomes waste. The smart bins, which come with solar panels, also include mechanisms to crush or dice the food items. Killara Primary School teacher Kelli Brogan said she was glad to see her pupils embrace the challenge so enthusiastically. It was amazing to see how the program brought their creativity to life, and that if we put our heads together, it’s possible to find some really interesting solutions to some tough challenges,” she said. “The program enabled us to enhance the learning experience for our students, providing interactive and engaging content in line with the curriculum.” Details: https://bit.ly/3xv9l8B

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Tuesday, 7 December, 2021 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 5

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Laptops even the playing field By Oliver Lees Financially disadvantaged students across Hume and the Macedon Ranges have been given a hand to improve their access to technology, in a bid to improve at-home learning outcomes across the state. Not-for-profit organisation State Schools’ Relief (SSR) provides a source of advocacy for disadvantaged students across the state. In 2020-21, the organisation assisted more than 72,000 under age persons, with the

average cost of assisting a child being $124. This year the organisation’s focus has shifted to at-home learning. In April SSR trialled a program in which they gave laptops to students completing their high school studies, with the scope of allowing them to retain them for their post-schooling career. The organisation distributed 56 internet dongles and 41 laptops across Hume and nine internet dongles and 29 laptops in the Macedon Ranges. SSR chief executive Sue Karzis said

technology had become a driving factor of disadvantage during the pandemic. “COVID-19 brought to light the digital divide and the lack of access and equity to the digital tools required to engage with remote learning. This includes not only having a device, but also internet connectivity and access to a dedicated space in which to study,” Ms Karzis said. “Students from vulnerable backgrounds are already starting at a disadvantage, and they need assistance to stay engaged with their education, which I believe is a pathway to

breaking the cycle of poverty.” But Ms Karzis said the organisation was yet to reach its distribution of technology which can be used for educational purposes, which sees as the crucial stepping stone to improving learning outcomes. The organisation has started an online donation portal to drive-up its capacity to provide technological support. SSR is aiming to receive $500,000 to provide a total of 1000 laptops across the state. Details: https://bit.ly/3I1XcMV

Breaking barriers to accessibility

A message to end violence

Victorian State Emergency Service (SES) volunteer Shanleigh Meldrum wants to see the emergency sector become more accessible for people with disabilities. Ms Meldrum’s role as a dual responder with the SES Bendigo and Gisborne Units is heavily involved in community engagement, as she is the section leader for events and presentations at Gisborne. Also as someone that is hard-of-hearing, she knows first hand that there are ways in which the emergency sector could achieve greater universal accessibility. Speaking at an online forum for International Day for People with Disability, Ms Meldrum said the public health restrictions of the past 18 months had thrown up further challenges of accessibility.

‘‘

I’ve probably never felt as deaf as I have through this pandemic

’’

- Shanleigh Meldrum “I grew up hard-of-hearing, but I’ve probably never felt as deaf as I have through this pandemic. And I know that’s the same for a lot of hard-of-hearing people,” she said. “As a deaf person myself, I always have to adapt the way I communicate. But if another person is wearing a mask, I can’t communicate, and if they’re not willing to pull it down, how do you deal with that? “There are instances where I just don’t talk, because if I do, people will assume I can hear. It’s definitely affecting people more than it did previously.” Ms Meldrum said basic emergency technology such as phone apps are often lacking the necessary resources to be used by everyone. But Ms Meldrum said she has also been encouraged by her peers’ willingness to meet her halfway. In 2019, when her hearing deteriorated rapidly, Ms Meldrum and her unit controller

SES Gisborne volunteer Shanleigh Meldrum wants to see the emergency sector provide greater accessibility to people with disabilities. (Supplied)

Mike Bagnall organised to have the unit complete four weeks of deaf awareness and Auslan training. “Mike’s feeling that it was not me who needed to change, but rather that ‘we need to change for you’ really stuck with me, and everyone has benefited,” Ms Meldrum said.

“The unit undertaking Deaf Awareness training and basic Auslan was a huge benefit to me; communicating with me is second nature to them now. They know how to approach me, get my attention and communicate with me really well.” Oliver Lees

Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas is calling on the community to add their voice to this year’s global campaign seeking to end gender-based violence. The 16 Days of Activism initiative kicked off this year on November 25 and will run until December 10, which marks World Human Rights Day. Federal government data indicates that almost one in 10 women in a relationship had experienced some form of domestic abuse since the start of the pandemic. In support of the campaign, Ms Thomas has asked locals to share a photo of themselves with their friends, holding up a sign with a statement finishing the sentence, ‘to me, respect is … ’. Ms Thomas said services such as the Centre for Non-Violence (CNV) are important facets of the community. The CNV works with The Orange Door to provide a free service of extra support for those experiencing family violence. “I am proud to live in a community that supports women and families to live safely,” Ms Thomas said. “Congratulations to the local organisations, service clubs and local governments who are supporting the global campaign, 16 Days of Activism to end gendered violence.” Macedon Ranges council chief executive Bernie O’Sullivan said council was committed to spreading a message of respect across the shire. “Respecting each other helps keep our connections strong at all levels... in our personal relationships, families, workplaces and communities. Never, has that been more important,” Mr O’Sullivan said.

Black Forest Drive safety improvements Community listening sessions – 14-15 December 2021

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Police urge fire vigilance

The CFA is reminding all landholders to be prepared as we enter the fire season. (Keith Pakenham)

Remain fire ready: CFA By Oliver Lees The Country Fire Authority (CFA) is urging landholders not to be complacent this bushfire season, despite recent forecasts suggesting below normal fire potential in the north-west of Victoria. According to the National Council for Fire and Emergency Services’ Bushfire Seasonal Outlook for Spring, a forecast of above average rainfall is expected for the north-west and central ranges, which in turn will reduce the likelihood of a harsh beginning to the fire season before summer. But CFA north-west region community engagement co-ordinator Paul Tangey said it’s dangerous to risk safety over a forecast that could change quickly.

“Victoria is one of the most fire prone areas in the world,” Mr Tangey said. “People need to remain fire ready, not just in summer, but all year round. “And fire danger periods are not just the summer months. I don’t want to get to the end of February and have people think the fire season is over.” Mr Tangey said the fact that no restrictions were yet to be in place across the Macedon Ranges was due to the above average rainfall of the last few months. According to Mr Tangey, a region’s fire restriction period is determined following a ‘crunch test’. Collaborating with local fire bridge and councils, CFA groups assess how much of a region’s area has become dry to the point that

leaves and twigs crunch when stamped on. “What they need to do is determine when more than half of an area is going to be like that, that’s when the restrictions are brought in,” Mr Tangey said. Mr Tangey said he could not forecast when restrictions would be introduced in the shire, but warned that historically the area has been prone to bush and grass fires. “It’s important to do everything to prepare, so that includes making sure your grass is slashed to less than 10-centimetres and making sure that you’ve cleaned up anything that has the potential to burn on your property,” he said. “Leaves, twigs, bark, clear it all up, and make sure you’ve put other unnecessary hazards like the fuel for the whipper snipper.” Details: www.cfa.vic.gov.au

Victoria Police is urging everyone to remain vigilant toward the risk of fire this summer despite a wetter than average meteorological outlook. Earlier this month the Bureau of Meteorology announced that La Niña had been established in the tropical Pacific, meaning Australia is destined for a wetter, windier summer. Despite the announcement, Victoria Police has launched Operation Safeguard. The annual operation seeks to reduce the number of times a fire is intentionally or recklessly lit. According to Victoria Police data for the 12 months prior to June this year, 21 such offences were recorded across the state. These offences related to a range of regular circumstances, such as burning off activities, campfires, use of tools and bonfires. Victoria Police assistant commissioner of state emergencies and support command Michael Grainger said these types of incidents can spring up easily. “Now is not the time to be complacent – summer in Victoria means the risk of fire is imminent. In hot, dry and windy conditions, fires can start quickly, are fast-moving and can have devastating impacts,” he said. “Preventing bushfires is everyone’s responsibility – we’re asking the community to be mindful of their activities during the summer period and act responsibly – it could be your actions that result in a devastating bushfire, causing loss of life and property.”

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Car park upgrade Riddells Creek Station car park is getting an upgrade to improve commuter capacity. The works will include a new 50-space car park, as well as bicycle parking facilities, landscaping and CCTV. Engage Victoria is seeking feedback to inform the final design of the car park. Details: https:// bit.ly/3d7nuza

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Share the Dignity volunteer Melanie Lia (right) with Bunnings staff members and big haul of donated items. (Supplied)

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Bags full of generosity

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The Sunbury community has dug deep this month in support of vulnerable women and girls. Through the not-for-profit organisation Share the Dignity, the It’s In the Bag Christmas appeal has been in full swing, providing basic supplies for those in domestic violence shelters. From November 19 to November 28, residents were encouraged to drop off essential items at Sunbury Bunnings such as pads, tampons, deodorant, conditioner and soap. These items were then collected and sorted by Share the Dignity volunteers (known as sheroes), who then assisted in dropping off the supplies to centres such as the Sunbury Salvation Army and CareWorks SunRanges.

Since joining Share the Dignity as a volunteer four years ago, Melanie Lia said the work was incredibly rewarding. “I’m not in a situation of domestic violence, but it’s nice to be able to put together these bags, and hope that they might help the next person be in a better place,” she said. A Share the Dignity spokesperson confirmed that Sunbury had collated more than 450 bags for ‘adults’, ‘teenagers’ and ‘mums and bubs’. Ms Lia said Sunbury had built a generous reputation, after being listed as the second most giving area in last year’s donation drive. Details: www.sharethedignity.org.au

Macedon Ranges council is inviting submissions to inform its 2022-23 budget. This early submission window will run in addition to the regular consultation phase in April and May. A Macedon Ranges council spokesperson said they are inviting all forms of submission from individuals, community groups, committees and more. Submissions for this round are due December 12. Details: www.mrsc. vic.gov.au

Beware of fake tradies The state government is reminding Victorians to ensure all tradespeople working on their properties are qualified. According to Consumer Affairs Victoria data, more than 120 reports of fake tradies were made during the past financial year. Victorians should report any instances of suspected fake tradesperson operations on 1300 133 408. FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Sunbury & Macedon Ranges Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Oliver Lees

Print and Online Sales Executive Star Weekly

Star Weekly is an independently owned company which prides itself on its long history of community experience but also its investment in the future. The successful applicant will need to possess good people skills to enable them to meet with local businesses to sell solutions through our advertising platforms to help promote their business. Sales skills/experience: • Ability to maintain existing professional relationships and to create new ones • Ability to meet defined sales and activity targets • Excellent listening skills • Accuracy and attention to detail • Effective time management to meet deadlines • Ability to operate in a team • Demonstrates initiative and flexibility • Effective oral and written communication Applicants will need their own reliable vehicle for which we will provide an allowance. The position is salaried, plus we offer an open ended commission scheme. Send your application letter and resume to: Mandy Clark Group Advertising Sales Manager mandy.clark@starnewsgroup.com.au

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‘‘

improve safety and ease congestion in the heart of - Josh Bull our community

‘‘

’’

improve safety and ease congestion in the heart of - Josh Bull our community

’’

Concept design for the new-look Gap Road level crossing. (Supplied)

By Jessica Micallef The first concept design for the new-look Gap Road level crossing in Sunbury has been released. Gap Road will be lowered under the rail line to preserve the character of the heritage-listed Sunbury station. Construction on the project was brought forward to begin this year, with the level crossing expected to be removed by late 2022, and the remaining works completed in 2023 – two years ahead of the initial 2025 completion date. About 19,000 vehicles pass through the Gap

Road level crossing each day, with the number expected to reach 27,000 in 2026, according to state government data. A three-week community consultation period was held in November last year for the public to provide feedback on the design, landscaping and public artworks for the new level crossing. Sunbury MP Josh Bull said more than 170 residents contributed to the preliminary design. “The level crossing will be gone for good by the end of 2022, with a road under rail design as promised,” he said. “This year we will see site investigations continuing as well as some early works, with

the majority of major construction towards the end of 2022.” The level crossing removal is being delivered in conjunction with the $2.1 billion Sunbury line upgrade, which includes platform extensions, train stabling modifications and rail track power upgrades at Sunbury station to enable bigger and more modern trains to run on the line. The line is expected to transport up to 113,000 passengers in peak hours every week when the Metro Tunnel is open. “We promised to remove this crossing by 2025, but this vital project has been fast tracked to synchronise works between the level

crossing removal and the $2.1 billion Sunbury line upgrade,” Mr Bull said. “It means we will only need to close the line for an extended period of time once, rather than twice, resulting in less disruption and a level crossing-free Sunbury three years ahead of schedule. “This is a critical project that will improve safety and ease congestion in the heart of our community and it is time to get it done.” The Gap Road level crossing will be the fourth crossing removed on the Sunbury line and is one of 75 “dangerous and congested” level crossings in Melbourne to be gone by 2025. 12476330-CG03-21

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Plans to revamp Sunbury Park By Oliver Lees Hume council has applied for funding to revitalise little-known Sunbury Park. Occupying six hectares at the corner of Harker and Jackson streets, Sunbury Park is just a short distance from the town centre and features a range of historic mature trees. Council has been implementing its masterplan for the space since 2015, and the primary function of the park is as an off leash dog park. Council urban and open space manager Greg

‘‘

The need for that quality open space is really important - Josh Bull

’’

McLaren told Star Weekly that the application for $350,000 through the state government’s Growing Suburbs Fund will help develop the space with a focus on natural and exploratory play. “It’s about trying to encourage people to come into nature and explore the different

elements and the trees,” Mr McLaren said. “The funding through the growing suburbs is for the continuation of pathway networks, new furniture, landscaping and nature play.” Sunbury MP Josh Bull, who has written to the local government minister to support council’s application, said the town would benefit from a revamped Sunbury Park. “This one is quite unique,” Mr Bull said. “It’s an area that I think is so central, but it’s not known by many people, you sort of have to look it up and go ‘oh that’s where it is’. “The need for that quality open space is

really important, and we’ve seen that through COVID-19.” Speaking at a council meeting last week, councillor Jarrod Bell admitted he was not aware of the park until he became a councillor, but said he hoped a further upgrade would make it more attractive to residents and visitors. “I’ve lived in Sunbury my entire life, and when I think of Sunbury Park, I would always think of the Nook,” Cr Bell said. “A park that will be a fantastic green open space for our community to visit … I’m really excited about that.”

Take the time to listen An immersive audio-enhanced experience in one of the Macedon Ranges most pristine areas is now open to the public. The Murmuring Walk at Sanatorium Lake in Mount Macedon was developed by the creative minds of Ria Soermardjo, Charlotte Roberts and Sandra Fiona Long as a multi-layered audio guide to accompany any visitor’s stroll through the space. Starting at the Lions Head Road carpark, visitors can enjoy the experience at any time. The Murmuring Walk tour is estimated to take a total of 40 minutes to complete. Speaking to Star Weekly about the project in June, co-creator Ms Long said she hopes the project encourages participants to think critically about their engagement with the native flora and fauna. “The aim was to create an experience that brought people into the present and for it be really meditative,” she said. “Part of that was finding a balance, making

it informative but also allowing people to be present. “By including snippets of knowledge from First Nations people I hope that the experience will get people thinking about the history of the location while enjoying their surroundings.” A Macedon Ranges spokesperson recommended that participants download the audio file prior to arriving due to the unreliable mobile connection at the lake. Details: mrsc.vic.gov.au/murmuring-walk Oliver Lees

Ria Soermardjo, Macedon Ranges council deputy mayor Rob Guthrie, Sandra Fiona Long and Charlotte Roberts. (Supplied)

Allied Health Professionals needed. Build your career with us.

Make a difference at Macedon Ranges Health If you’re an allied health professional with a passion for supporting your local community, consider a role at Macedon Ranges Health.

Committed to helping people live their best lives, we strive for the very best outcomes for our clients whilst working in a happy and supportive environment. Our clinicians enjoy a varied and purposeful role with a competitive remuneration package, strong job security and excellent development and leadership opportunities.

Establish yourself in the healthcare field at Allied Health Plus, a leading provider of privately-funded allied health services in Gisborne. By providing our clients with easier access to a range of high-quality care services, we empower them to pursue their health, fitness and wellbeing goals at their own pace. Our services are open to people of all ages meaning our clinicians get to work with people at varying stages of life.

We are currently seeking qualified Physiotherapists, Occupational Therapists and Podiatrists to join our team.

In response to our growing demand for services, we are currently welcoming qualified Allied Health professionals to consult at our centre.

Visit mrh.org.au or call (03) 5428 0300 to find out more.

Enjoy the flexibility of developing your own schedule while you grow your own client base and gain valuable experience with a reputable provider.

For more information visit ahplus.com.au or call (03) 5428 0375. (03) 5428 0300 | mrh.org.au 5 Neal Street, Gisborne

5 Neal Street, Gisborne T (03) 5428 0375

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Macedon Ranges Health is an innovative not-for-profit organisation delivering leading-edge allied health care to older people living in Gisborne and surrounds.

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Tuesday, 7 December, 2021 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 9

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Woodend Nursery is a favourite with the people Woodend Nursery & Landscaping has taken out two awards at this year’s Macedon Ranges Business Excellence Awards. Store owner Cassius Armitage walked away from the award ceremony with his team having claimed both the People’s Choice and the Small and Thriving awards. “I was super grateful, we’ve worked hard for this,” Mr Armitage said. “The People’s Choice was the one I really wanted.” Mr Armitage first took over the nursery three years ago. But faced with strict business conditions of

‘

We’re all supporting each other’s businesses wherever possible - Cassius Armitage

’

the past 18 months, Mr Armitage, like many of his business peers, sought to pivot the direction of his enterprise. From selling plant products out of the store, Mr Armitage and his team began delivering products to homes across the shire. Not long after, the business had evolved once again, to the point where Woodend Nursery

started picking up landscaping projects of all sizes. “We love what we do, getting to transforming people’s gardens, and they love coming in for a bit of therapy and and having someone to talk to,” he said. “We’re in a privileged position right in the hub of the community.” Now also with a fully-functioning online website delivering products across the country, Mr Armitage said he’s optimistic the business will continue to blossom. “I think the Small and Thriving Award made sense because we are a niche boutique with a small team,” he said.

Champions of change By Oliver Lees It’s been a transformative first 12 months for Macedon Ranges Produce co-founders Ted Tolfree and Shey Newitt, who last week received the top prize at the Macedon Ranges Business Excellence Awards. At the awards evening held on November 26, Macedon Ranges Produce was named both the Business of the Year and the Champion of Social, Environment or Sustainability Principles. Before November last year, the husband and wife duo were both solely invested in their own career ventures, until a random encounter with a neighbour sparked an idea. “My neighbour was telling me he sells white peonies and usually goes to flower markets, but with restrictions, there was nowhere to go,” Mr Tolfree said. “I said why don’t you get a liquor license and sell your peonies in a bundle with a bottle of pinot. He thought it was a great idea. “It made me think that through the lockdowns there must be so many people producing beautiful products with nowhere to sell them.” And with that, Macedon Ranges Produce was born. The online venture connects consumers with the best local produce from across the shire. Instead of only selling their wares at the cellar door, farmers market or bakery, Mr Tolfree said his online delivery service is intended to create connections between the growers and their customer base, who more and more are looking online to fill their pantries. “We’ve lived here for six years, and we just think we live in one of the most beautiful places in the world, it’s amazing,” Mr Tolfree said. “I feel though as a region we don’t get the same recognition as other regions, despite the fact I believe we’re sitting on an absolute gem in terms of produce.”

Macedon Ranges Produce co-owners Ted Tolfree and Shey Newitt received the Business of the Year award at the Macedon Ranges Business Excellence Awards. (Supplied)

Mr Tolfree said he was particularly proud that the business was recognised for its sustainable model. “When we were interviewed for the sustainability category, our nine-year-old daughter was there and I introduced her as our chief sustainability officer,” he said. “Every time I think about making a choice

[about sustainability], I ask myself what decision my daughter would make. And that usually means thinking about the long term, not just the short term. “There’s no better economic development principle than to buy and sell locally.” Details: www.macedonrangesproduce.com. au

“But I think over time I expect us to grow into multiple small and thriving enterprises.” Mr Armitage said he was enjoying seeing the business community in Woodend continue to support one another. “I’m the treasurer of the Woodend Traders, and what I’m finding is there is a great support network for other businesses,” he said. “We’re becoming a real collective. That’s the concept of a modern village — we’re all supporting each other’s businesses wherever possible.” Oliver Lees

Christmas at Malmsbury Cemetery Light refreshments will be made available to anyone wishing to visit Malmsbury Cemetery this Christmas day. Located on Cemetery Road, the Malmsbury Cemetery has been used as a final resting place since 1862. Between 10am and 11.30am on December 25, individuals or families visiting a grave site will be provided with tea, coffee and a shaded area to sit and reflect. Malmsbury Cemetery Trust committee member Jeff Smith said it was important to provide a comfortable space to visit the deceased on a day that is special to so many people. “Whether people are coming to contemplate, visit family or loved ones, or just take in the serenity of it all, we will be there to offer some company, beverages, and snacks to everyone that wants,” Mr Smith said. “We all know that Christmas can be a lonely time for some people and visiting loved ones on this special day is a tradition for many families. “We appreciate learning more about the people that we are looking after, it reminds us of the strong bonds of community and family in the district.” Malmsbury Cemetery Trust committee member Chris Byrne said he was hoping the initiative could make the historic site more a focal point in the community. He said the committee would consider extending the service to other significant days if there is a positive community response. Oliver Lees

THERE’S A MILLION REASONS TO GET VACCINATED.

TODAY

Mine’s getting back out in our community, what’s yours? Mary-Anne Thomas MP LABOR MEMBER FOR MACEDON

Shop 14, Nexus Centre, 9 Goode Street, Gisborne, VIC 3437 E: mary-anne.thomas@parliament.vic.gov.au P: 5428 2138 Authorised by MA Thomas, Shop 14, Nexus Centre, 9 Goode Street, Gisborne.

10 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 7 December, 2021

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Growing calls to protect planning transparency Transparency is needed now and into the future in planning decisions, according to the the peak body representing the local government sector. Municipal Association of Victoria president, Pyrenees Shire councillor David Clark, said councils across the state have noted an alarming lack of open consultation with councillors and their communities in recent times. Sunbury Residents Association president Graham Williams said in his experience of recent development works across the area, consultation had often been inadequate.

“Consultation’s stuffed,” he said. “It seems it’s just about ticking the box. The Municipal Association of Victoria is correct in saying that consultation is broken.” Mr Williams said the consultation for the Bulla Bypass business case was a recent example of a process that could be improved. “For the Bulla Bypass [business case] they were only going to consult with houses within three kilometres of the two end points [of the bypass], that’s great but what about the rest of the community,” he said. “You hear project managers saying they

do consultation all the time with traffic management experts, but that’s not community consultation.” Mr Williams said he felt the window for people to provide feedback was often very brief. A Macedon Ranges council spokesperson said genuine consultation and engagement was the cornerstone of planning and development. “Any planning reforms should continue to recognise the value of strong community and council consultation and the role that councils play in representing the views of the community and ensuring good, sensible

planning outcomes on the ground, out in our local communities. “The local community and its elected representatives have an inherent interest in the planning process and it is very important they continue to have input into shaping the communities and places where they live,” the spokesperson said. Macedon Ranges council confirmed it would review the state government’s proposed planning reforms when they are made available. Hume council was contacted for comment.

Advocates for the new courts in Riddells Creek met earlier this month to celebrate the project’s completion. (Supplied)

Club nets new courts

People connectors Shannon Sharkey and Andrew White have been hitting the pavement as part of the Assisting Communities through Direct Connection program. (Damjan Janevski) 259865_03

Connecting with people By Oliver Lees Mental health workers have hit the streets across the Macedon Ranges to educate residents about support services on offer throughout the shire. The Assisting Communities through Direct Connection (ACDC) initiative has been designed to inform or remind people of where to get help, through direct conversations with people connectors who have been tasked with the going door-to-door to spread the word. In the Macedon Ranges, community health organisation HMS Collective has diverted some members of its staff to the project. The program in the Macedon Ranges is one of 20 being run around Australia by Community

Mental Health Australia (CMHA). Since October, the ACDC project has reached approximately 550 homes in the Macedon Ranges. ACDC Macedon Ranges project line manager Jacqui Wilkinson said the program had been well received by the community. “Delivering the project in the Macedon Ranges shire has presented unique opportunities such as discussing the lack of mental health and wellbeing support in the shire with local counselors and members of parliament,” Ms Wilkinson said. Northern Western Melbourne Primary Health Network data from 2018 found the annual suicide rate in the Macedon Ranges (17 per 100,000) was well above the national (11 per

100,000), and state (10 per 100,000) average. The data also indicated the shire to be the only municipality that was “significantly higher“ than the Australian rate. Ms Wilkinson said the program had been valuable in recording data for ways to improve the delivery of services in the region. “The people connectors have identified several service gaps in the Macedon Ranges area, ranging from accessibility issues for community engagement services, to lack of mental health and wellbeing support for carers, to wanting more community groups to reduce social isolation,” she said. The program will continue until January 2022. Details: https://acdc.org.au/

After seven years of advocacy, the Riddells Creek Tennis Club has unveiled three new hardcourts on Sutherlands Road. Although the courts were officially completed in April 2020, the club was finally able to unveil the new facilities on November 27, with club members, sponsors and advocates in attendance. The project has been jointly funded by a number of sources, including the state and federal governments, Macedon Ranges council, Tennis Australia and the Gisborne and District Community Bank. Riddells Creek Tennis Club president Fiona Walker said having support from all levels of government made the arrival of the new tennis courts in the area all the more special. “The club has already started to see the benefits of having the new courts,” Ms Walker said. “Club memberships have been growing steadily since the courts were built and there has been an increase in competition between players and teams.” Ms Walkers said that increased engagement had allowed the club to host the Macedon Ranges Tennis Association junior competition grand final. “The club are hoping that by doubling the size of the venue, it will set the club up for a very exciting and prosperous future,” she said. Details: mrtc.scott@gmail.com Oliver Lees

Spreading joy, one festive card at a time The Macedon Ranges Gift Shop (MRGS) is back with a bang this festive season, with the volunteer-led initiative having raised $12,000 that will go straight back to assisting children most in-need. Now in its 12th year, the MRGS has undergone a transformation to make sure it can continue to share its resources with the community. Where previously a physical store was established for the community, now MRGS has created a gift card program, where users can purchase items at participating local traders.

Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health helps to find eligible children and then registers them as a recipient. Gift cards are valued up to $10 and can be redeemed until January 31. Participating stores accept the cards and are then reimbursed with the money collected through the fundraiser. MRGS team member Georgina Harvey said it was rewarding to be able to give back at this special time of year. “This initiative supports our families that need help, but it also supports local businesses,” she said.

“Our community is just amazing, there’s so many opportunities to give back. Having this program that assists specific families is just so important, and people really appreciate being able to support their next door neighbour.” Details: georginaeharvey@gmail.com Oliver Lees Macedon Ranges Gift Shop volunteers have been hard at work putting together gift bags for the community. (Supplied) Tuesday, 7 December, 2021 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 11

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Storm keeps Sunbury SES busy By Oliver Lees Sunbury’s emergency services were kept busy once again last week as heavy rain and hail battered the area. In the 24 hours prior to noon last Thursday, the Sunbury unit of the State Emergency Service (SES) responded to a 54 calls for help in the area. SES Sunbury crew member Jarrod Bell said it had proven to be another hectic day in a record-breaking year for emergency services in Victoria. But unlike the extreme winds that tore down trees in October, Mr Bell said this time his unit was assisting those dealing with flooding.

‘‘

Prevention of a call is always better than an actual call for assistance

’’

- Jarrod Bell

“There were something like 20 flood rescues happening across Melbourne simultaneously,” Mr Bell said. “By and large the calls we attended to were responding to flash flooding and building damage from the significant hail across the area. “I would say the hail was, on average, the size of a large marble, or two to three centimetres [in diameter].”

The unit also assisted in operations further afield, including three flood rescue operations in Broadmeadows, Essendon and Brunswick. Mr Bell said that no one requesting assistance had required medical attention. The harsh downpour came just days after Australia recorded its wettest November on record. According to the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM), Australia’s new November average rainfall record is 72 millimetres, more than double the November national average of 32 millimetres. November also marked the conclusion of Australia’s wettest spring since 2010. Mr Bell said it was imperative that

individuals prepared appropriately for a wetter-than-average summer. “In terms of preparation, making sure all drainage is clear of obstructions in the spring and early summer is really important,” he said. “People seem to have this feeling that they can always risk it, which then puts themselves, their families, and ultimately emergency services members at risk. “Many people have a fire plan, but we really encourage people to have storm and home emergency plans that cover more broadly those risks to themselves and their families. “People can really do their bit – prevention of a call is always better than an actual call for assistance.”

Railway back on track The Bulla Hill Railway was back in business late last month with children and their families enjoying the scenic loop. Operated by the Tullamarine Live Steam Society, the miniature railway fired up its engine on November 21 for just the third time this year. The volunteer organisation usually runs the train service on the third Sunday of every month, but was repeatedly curtailed by ongoing COVID-19 restrictions. Tullamarine Live Steam Society volunteer Kris Siderov said it was great to be back in the swing of things. “It’s been really good to see people out and about, everyone has been in good spirits and we’ve had no issues with people showing vaccination status,” Mr Siderov said. As a society volunteer for more than 30 years, Mr Siderov said he had missed the community

connection during the months of closure. “It’s really social. I guess you could call it an extensive Men’s Shed. We get together, do bits and pieces, and spend time together,” he said. “The public and our local community are very supportive, some understand we’re just volunteers, and others are surprised when they find out we’re not coming here for work.” Mr Siderov said the Tullamarine Live Steam Society is always on the lookout for more volunteers. The next miniature train service will run on December 19. Details: bullahillrailway.org.au Oliver Lees The Bulla Hill Railway was as popular as ever when it returned last month. (Supplied)

FROM THE ARCHIVES Star Weekly looks back through the pages of our predecessors

30 years ago

25 years ago

20 years ago

December 10, 1991

December 10, 1996

December 11, 2001

The Caloola Training Centre site could become a tourism gold mine for Sunbury if it was developed as an international five-star resort with overseas investment.

The opportunity to secure a new industry in Kyneton was missed by the Macedon Ranges Shire council.

Sunbury police will draw resources from surrounding regions in a campaign to combat underage drinking and hooliganism during the festive season.

12 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 7 December, 2021

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BEHIND THE NEWS

Melbourne’s murders most foul Melbourne has experienced its fair share of grisly murders over the years. Many of these tragic events have remained in the public sphere for decades, such as the Melbourne gangland killings which saw more than 35 underworld figures targeted between 1998 and 2010. However, over time some murders that once caused a scandal in Melbourne have faded from memory. Star Weekly reporter Alesha Capone took a deep dive into the archives of Melbourne’s old newspapers to uncover some of the bloody, brutal and mysterious murders and manslaughters of yesteryear, which occurred in the northern and western suburbs. Massacre of Indigenous Australians The Mount Cottrell massacre involved the murder of a group of indigenous Australians on July 16, 1836. Researchers believe that between five to 35 Indigenous people could have been slaughtered during the massacre. They were murdered in retaliation for the deaths of two white men, settler Charles Franks and shepherd Thomas Flinders, who were found dead on July 9. After the deaths, a group of 17 men tracked a group of Aboriginals and fired at them with muskets. Port Phillip magistrate William Lonsdale later launched an investigation into the massacre, but those interviewed said they did not see anyone die.

Convict murderers Owen Owens lies in a grave at Williamstown Cemetery. Owen, a prison warder aged in his early twenties, was murdered by a group of 10 convicts on October 22, 1856. According to the Hobsons Bay Libraries webpage, the convicts were returning to their ship after a day of labour when they hauled on the tow rope, brought their boats together, overpowered the rowers and killed Owen. The next year, 1857, a magistrate and penal administrator named John Price visited Williamstown on March 26 to hear from convicts, who had been complaining about the circumstances in which they were being kept. While listening to their grievances, John Price ended up being beaten with rocks and stone-breaking tools. He died the next day at a Nelson Place surgery. Seven convicts were hanged after being convicted of John’s death.

Left: Stefan and Vera Kolacz leave court. (Supplied/The News) Above: Stefan Kolacz was interred at the Bergen-Belsen concentration camp run by Nazis in Germany, before he migrated to Australia. (Supplied/

Son murdered trying to help his father A teenager named Isaac Crawcour was killed after coming to the aid of his father Michael during an armed burglary at the family’s pawnbroker shop in Nelson Place, Williamstown on January 12, 1894. Isaac, 19, ran into the store after his father – armed with a revolver - and confronted two intruders breaking in through the shop window about 3am. One of the burglars, who had a pistol, fired at Michael and missed. Michael’s own revolver did not work, but he and Isaac attempted to stop the men as they tried to escape. Isaac was shot in the stomach during the scuffle but managed to grab the revolver off his attacker. Police arrived on the scene and arrested the two burglars. Sadly, Isaac died about 36 hours later. The Weekly Times reported a man named Ernest Jamieson – who used the surname Knox as an alias – was later hanged for Isaac’s death. The newspaper described Jamieson, 21, as “a mere boy burglar”. The other burglar, 18-year-old John Charles Jent, and was sentenced to three years’ hard labour.

Mystery of baby’s body On June 22, 1923, an infant girl’s body, wrapped in brown paper, was found near West Footscray railway station. A coroner concluded the child had been murdered, after suffering a fractured skull and being suffocated. The website of Twisted History, a Victorian tourism company which runs tours of haunted sites, states that the parents of the child were never discovered.

Family drowns A case labelled as the ’Sunshine tragedy’, which made headlines across the nation, saw Harold James Russell charged with manslaughter on June 11, 1932. Russell’s wife Ivy and sons,

Bernswael/Pixabay)

three-year-old George and 18-month-old Eric, drowned in Kororoit Creek, Sunshine. Russell, who was also charged with bigamy, maintained his innocence in court. He said that Ivy, 27, threw the children into the water and jumped in herself. However, the Crown argued Russell threw them all in the water and stood by while they drowned. Russell, 27, was sentenced to 10 years in jail for each death, to be served concurrently.

Market garden murder Italian market gardener, Giovanni Carretti, was found murdered outside his two-room hut near Tower Road, Werribee on September 4, 1932. The 36-year-old was discovered lying in a pool of blood, with “half his head blown off and a wound in his leg”. The Argus newspaper reported that detectives considered “the possibility that the murder may have been perpetrated by some secret organisation” but concluded it was more likely a local resident. An inquest later that year declared Giovanni, who slept with a revolver under his pillow, was murdered by an unknown person or people

Tomahawk killing Newspapers across Australia reported that a man named Michael Motyl, 27, was killed with a tomahawk on September 5, 1948 at a Broadmeadows camp where migrants lived following World War II. Michael was killed after he made sexual advances towards, and

The convict ship, named Success, which the convicts that killed Owen Owens lived on. (Pictures: Supplied/Webb & Webb/State Library Victoria)

allegedly molested, an 18-year-old woman named Vera. Her husband, a Ukrainian named Stefan Kolacz, killed Michael. Vera told the court that Michael had invited her to poison her husband and run away to Tasmania with him. The court also heard that Kolacz, 29, had been badly treated at the Bergen-Belsen concentration camp run by Nazis in Germany. Kolacz was sentenced to eight years in jail after being found guilty of

manslaughter. He later appealed the sentence, saying that shock treatment he received at the Royal Park Mental Hospital had returned his mind to its “normal” state. He was found not guilty and reunited with Vera. To seek help for mental health issues, contact the Mental Health Foundation Australia helpline on 1300 643 287 or Lifeline on 13 11 14 or at www.lifeline.org.au.

Tuesday, 7 December, 2021 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 13

COMMUNITY STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

COMMUNITY CALENDAR WANT YOUR EVENT LISTED? Community Calendar is made available free of charge to not-for-profit organisations to keep the public informed of special events and activities. Send item details to Star Weekly Community Calendar, Corner Thomsons Road and Keilor Park Drive, Keilor Park, 3042, or email to westeditorial@starweekly.com.au by 9am Wednesday the week prior to publication

The next Sunbury Village Market will be at the Sunbury Memorial Hall and Village Green, Stawell Street on Saturday, December 11. The Sunbury Rotary Club is currently seeking stallholders. ■ 0400 907 793

in either an aged care facility or their own home. The scheme is also seeking a female volunteer with an understanding of MS to visit a mature lady in an aged care facility in Altona Meadows. ■ Sue, volunteer@ms.org.au or 9845 2744

Birds of a Feather

AL-ANON meets

Join guest speaker Hang Vo, chief executive of Whitelion Youth and the chair of the Victorian Pride Centre as she talks about how her personal experience of dislocation and exclusion drives her deep commitment to creating a more just, inclusive and equitable society. Friday, December 17, at noon at the Shamrock Hotel Kyneton ■ belinda.brain@scchc.org.au

AL-ANON provides support for families and loved ones living with alcoholics and problem drinkers. The group meets Mondays at St Thomas Anglican Church foyer, 117 Synnot Street, Werribee, from 7.30pm, and on Tuesdays at the St Mary’s Tennis Club rooms, 204 Grimshaw Street, Greensborough.

Village Market

Fibro/CFS Support Expressions of interest to start a Fibromyalgia and CFS Support Group in Manor Lakes and surrounding areas. Connect with real people and share information, experiences, problems and solutions. ■ wyndham.fibrogroup@gmail.com

Christmas decoration workshop Join Hume council for a morning of sustainable Christmas decoration making. The event will be held on Sunday, December 12, at the Goonawarra Community Centre from 10am-noon, with tickets $5 each. ■ https://bit.ly/3xGzEs8

Love Our Street 3029 The Sunbury Rotary Club meets every Tuesday at the Sunbury Bowling Club at 7pm. ■ sunburyrotary@gmail.com

Come join the volunteer community litter clean-up crew in Hoppers Crossing, which meets on the third Sunday of the month, 10.30am-noon. ■ Karen, 3029@loveourstreet.com.au

Symbiosis exhibition

Dads’ playgroup

Rotary club

This stark series of photographs that explore the relationship between a mother and daughter, against deeper themes of death and regeneration in nature is available to view until Saturday, January 15, 2022. The series of images are available to view for free, and are presented by Hume Arts Youth Award 2020 recipient, Filipe Filihia. ■ https://bit.ly/3BTguQl

■ Frank,

Live music in Macedon

Probus

Macedon Railway Hotel will welcome back guests to Annie Hall next year with gigs booked from January through to May. Head to the hotel’s website to secure your spot. ■ macedonrailwayhotel.com.au/live-shows

The Keilor Combined Probus Club is back in business following the lockdowns. The group meets the third Monday of every month at Keilor Pub, with the next meeting on January 17, 10am-noon. New members are welcome. ■ Steve, 0408 193 793, or Keith, 0409 494 801.

Toastmasters meeting Sunbury & Macedon Ranges Toastmasters helps its members develop their public speaking, communication and leadership skills. The group meets on the first and third Tuesday of each month, from 7.20-9.30pm, at the Sunbury Senior Citizens Hall. ■ vpm-4185@toastmastersclubs.org

Sewing group The Sunbury Neighbourhood House Social Sewing Group meets on the first Saturday of each month to chat, share ideas and sew. Beginners through experienced welcome. Sunbury Neighbourhood House, 531 Elizabeth Drive, Sunbury 12.30-3.30pm.

Garden club The Sunbury Garden Club meets on the first Tuesday of every month. There is a guest speaker at each meeting, which starts at 7.30pm at the Sunbury Football Club. ■ Cheryl, 9744 1663

Senior citizens club Senior citizens are welcome to visit the Sunbury Senior Citizens’ Club on Mondays and Fridays, from 10am-3pm at 8 O’Shannassy Street. A variety of activities offered – carpet bowls, cards, snooker, darts, board games or just a cup of coffee and a chat. Lunch is subsidised. If you’re over 55 years of age and would like to meet new people, come along.

Tarneit Community Learning Centre hosts a dads’ playgroup every week on Thursdays. The morning starts at 9.30am and promises to be a chance for male caregivers to connect with each other and form new friendships. ■ Shaun, 0455 521 154

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of dancer Kwabo Grace from Kwabo Events performing Afrodance. (Damjan Janevski) 259904

Diabetes support group 0423 392 884

Women’s group Duke Street Community Centre is setting up a women’s social group to give people a place to interact. The group will run every second Friday, as a way to connect with other women in the community in a safe, fun and social way. It will be developed to suit the needs of the participants and will be in a casual setting.The group will meet at the centre at 1pm, every second Friday. ■ 9311 9973

Football Taylors Lakes Football Club is seeking male and female players for all age groups from under-8s to under-18.5s. To be eligible, children need to be born between July 1, 2003, and April 30, 2015. ■ Julie, 0409 259 389

Female cricket Burnside Springs United is looking for players for its women’s program for the upcoming North West Metropolitan Cricket Association season. A friendly and welcoming environment, the club welcomes all abilities and ages. The side trains on Thursday nights and plays on Sundays. ■ ow.ly/WRGg50GCXrC

Softball Sunshine Softball Club is after junior players as the club kicks off its new

14 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 7 December, 2021

season. The club is running a Come N Try Softball Batter Up program which is ideal for beginners, but is open to all new and returning players aged between five and 10. The program is a fun and engaging skill based program introducing players to the basics of our fantastic game with qualified coaches. Equipment is supplied. ■ http://ow.ly/TOez50GHXku

Deer Park probus The Deer Park Combined Probus Club meets on the second Wednesday of each month at The Deer Park Club, 780 Ballarat Road, from 10am. New members and visitors are welcome. ■ Don, 0409 191 580

Sunshine United Cricket Club Selwyn Park-based Sunshine United Cricket Club is looking for junior boys and girls to play in its under-11s, under-13s Friday night and under-15s Saturday morning teams. Juniors learn and enjoy the fundamentals of cricket, taught by experienced coaches. ■ Terry Nichols, 0418 392 180

BinGO MOVE BinGO MOVE is a social exercise group which meets every Monday at 11am. It involves a fun interactive game where bingo numbers trigger an exercise or dance move. Activity suits all levels of ability, you can do seated or standing as suits. Currently running via Zoom, IPC Health will also offer face-to-face groups in Hoppers Crossing, when restrictions permit. ■ 8734 1400

The Westgate diabetes support group meets on the first Tuesday of every month at the Altona Bowling Club at 10am. ■ Elaine, 0415 030 996

Heritage walks Enjoy a leisurely two-hour walk around historic Williamstown and nearby suburbs with guide John. Walks start at 9.20am each Tuesday outside the Visitor Information Centre in Nelson Place. ■ John, 0418 377 336

Musicians welcome Do you play trumpet, flute or lower brass instruments? The Hobsons Bay City Band is seeking musicians to join its community band. Rehearsals are held Mondays from 7.30pm at the Newport Lakes Primary School, Elizabeth Street, Newport. Visitors and interested musicians any age most welcome. ■ Roger Lewis, hbcityband@gmail.com, or www.hbcb.org.au

Singing group Join the Melton South Community Singers at the Melton South Community Centre on the first and third Tuesday of each month. ■ Sue, 0400 082 413

Melton South Knit & Natter All welcome to join this social crafting group, running at the Melton South Community Centre each Monday from 10am-noon. Bring along any knitting or crochet projects and work on them while sharing tips, learning skills and catching up over a cuppa. ■ 9747 8576

Volunteers needed The Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Community Visitors Scheme is seeking female Maltese and Italian-speaking volunteers to join its volunteer program within the Werribee and Point Cook areas to visit elderly residents

Zonta club meets The Zonta Club of Melton meets on the first Monday of each month at Melton Country Club, Reserve Road, Melton. ■ Suzanne, 0417 512 420

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Valentine’s at Hanging Rock

Celebrate Valentine’s Day under the stars at Hanging Rock with a special movie screening of Peter Weir’s 1975 film, Picnic at Hanging Rock. The film, which is the 1967 novel by an adaption of the same name by Joan Lindsay, revolves around the disappearance of several schoolgirls and their teacher during a Rock on Valentine’s picnic to Hanging Day Moviegoers are encour in 1900. aged to bring their own picnic for dinner, a chair, rug and a blanket and get cosy as the drama mystery film is screen ing. For a bit of fun, come classic 1900’s costum dressed in a The film night is on e. Saturday, February 13 from 7pm at Hangin g Rock, 139 South Rock Road, Woodend. Tickets cost $25 for adults, $10 for children or $60 for a family of two adults and two children. To book: bit.ly/3pzPyji

(Supplied)

Pick up your favourite local newspaper, the Sunbury & Macedon Ranges Star Weekly from local outlets listed below or subscribe to our digital edition and have it sent to your device every week!

SECTION

Anti-vax leaflet slammed ‘‘

Jessica Micallef

By Jessica Micallef

Let’s not

McEwen MP Rob let false lies Mitchell is urging Sunbury residents to “tear spread as being facts up and throw anti-vaccination leaflets away” . It’s that may appear their letterbox. in dangerou s - Rob Mitchell Mr Mitchell said residen ts had notified him last Monday (Februa leaflets is from ry 1) about anti-vaccinatio American-based leaflets about the n IDoNotComp company, COVID-19 vaccine ly, which labels that had global been dropped in their movement that oppose itself as a letterbox. The leaflet, seen by s COVID-19 regulations. Star Weekly, stated should “avoid the people “It’s danger COVID and claims the “vaccin vaccine at all costs” People will ous that people are getting this. read e could this and wonder if potentially be he more deadly than it’s true,” said. “We are seeing the virus”. Mr Mitchell believe out … it’s all garbage these theories being put s the sender of . Tear the leaflet up the put it in the bin.” and

’’

RADIOLOGY SAVES LIVES

How healthy is

Mr Mitchell said only contacted him about Sunbury residents had be done to combat potenti was concerned peoplethe leaflets so far, but he misinformation ally “deadly in surrounding areas ”. would also receive He said people should them. consult a doctor The leaflet also has or medical address to the organis a QR code and a web vaccinations professional when it came to and medica urged people not to ation’s site. Mr Mitchell “We don’t know who l treatment. scan the code. these people are and “It’s for your own that is why safety,” he said. “It we have medical experts from an American-base comes ,” he said. “They have decade d organisation which s you’d think wouldn to understand these in training and learning ’t be so callous and things. They are the to make a stateme stupid to talk to. people nt like risk of dying of COVID ‘most people have no “Let’s not let false -19’. lies spread as being “This from a countr It’s dangerous. facts. y where tragica lly more than 440,000 deaths “What we have achieve have been recorded.” d in Victoria … Mr Mitchell said an amazing job is more work needed to people spreadi and the last thing we need is ng theories.”

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Pick up your FREE newspaper from these local outlets... • Bulla BP Service Station - Bulla 84-86 Bulla Road • Bulla Jack McKenzie Community Centre 11 Green Street • Clarkefield Coach and Horses Inn - Clarkfield 50 Station Street • Diggers Rest FoodWorks 22 Glitter Road • Diggers Rest Diggers Rest Post Office 76 Old Calder Highway • Diggers Rest Houdinis Cafe e Cucina 52-56 Old Calder Highway • Gibsorne Gisborne Village Fresh Brantome Street • Gibsorne Morgan’s SUPA IGA Gisborne Brantome Street • Gisborne Brad Teal Real Estate - Gisborne 40 Aitken Street • Gisborne Kennedy Hunt Real Estate - Gisborne 33 Brantome Street • Gisborne Gisborne Real Estate - Gisborne 38 Brantome Street • Gisborne Raine & Horne Real Estate 42 Brantome Street • Gisborne Gisborne Library 8 Hamilton Street • Gisborne Foodworks - Gisborne 24 Hamilton Street • Gisborne Macedon Ranges Health Service 76 Hamilton Street • Gisborne Gisborne Nursing Home - The Oaks 5 Neal Street • Gisborne Puma Service Station Gisborne 23 Robertson Street • Gisborne Caltex Service Station - Gisborne 4 Station Street • Kyneton Kuppers Fuel Stop - Kyneton 199 Burton Avenue

• Kyneton RT Edgar Real Estate - Kyneton 10 High Street • Kyneton Kyneton Newsagency 95 Mollison Street • Kyneton Kyneton Shire Offices 129 Mollison Street • Lancefield Lancefield Newsagency 18 High Street • Macedon United Service Station - Macedon 313 Black Forest Drive • Macedon IGA Supermarket - Macedon 20 Victoria Street • Macedon Macedon Newsagency 25 Victoria Street • Malmsbury General Store 75 Mollison Street • Monegeeta Newsagency 2076 Melbourne -Lancefield Road • Mount Macedon Mt Macedon Post Office 341 Mt Macedon Road • Riddells Creek Riddells Creek Nursery 675 Kilmore Road • Riddells Creek Riddells Creek Post Office 80 Main Road • Riddells Creek Foodies - Riddells Creek 86-88 Main Road • Riddells Creek Riddells Creek Supermarket 2 Station Street • Romsey Chess Property - Romsey 102 Main Street • Romsey IGA Supermarket - Romsey 107 Main Street • Sunbury Leeburn and Co Real Estate - Sunbury 6 Brook Street • Sunbury Sunbury Newsagency 14 Brook Street • Sunbury The Jolly Miller cafe Shop 2/2 Brook Street • Sunbury The Jolly Miller cafe Shop 2/2 Brook Street • Sunbury The Local Sunbury Bottleshop Shop 2b/15-17 Dornoch Drive • Sunbury Goonawarra General Store 23-25 Dornoch Drive • Sunbury Sunbury Neighbourhood House 531 Elizabeth Drive

• Sunbury Brad Teal Real Estate Sunbury 54 Evans Street • Sunbury Reliant Real Estate 11/114-126 Evans Street • Sunbury Muffin Break Shop 2/24 Evans Street • Sunbury Sunbury Square Shopping Centre Shop 2-28 Evans Street • Sunbury Terry White Chemist 83-85 Evans Street • Sunbury Gap Road Medical Centre 46 Gap Road • Sunbury United Fuel Sunbury 47 Gap Road • Sunbury 7-Eleven Sunbury 128 Gap Road • Sunbury Asia Finest Shop 4&5, 106-126 Gap Road • Sunbury Puma Service Station Sunbury 96 Horne Street • Sunbury Woolworths Supermarket 25-47 Horne Street • Sunbury Big W - Sunbury 25-47 Horne Street • Sunbury BP Service Station 53-55 Horne Street • Sunbury Sunbury Day Hospital 7 Macedon Street • Sunbury Hume Council Offices - Sunbury 40 Macedon Street • Sunbury Sunbury Information Centre 43 Macedon Street • Sunbury Sunbury Library 44 Macedon Street • Sunbury Community Health Centre Unit 12-28 Macedon Street • Sunbury McKwen Drive Milk Bar Shop 1-3 McEwen Drive • Sunbury Foodworks Bottlemart on Melba 16 Melba Avenue • Sunbury Foodworks on Melba 16-18 Melba Avenue • Sunbury Melba Cafe 22 Melba Avenue • Sunbury Mitchells Lane Milk Bar 192 Mitchells Lane

• Sunbury Just Planet 37 O’Shannesy Street • Sunbury An Apple a Day Natural Health Store 49 O’Shannesy Street • Sunbury The Spotted Owl 93 O’Shannesy Street • Sunbury Cafe Circe 109 O’Shannesy Street • Sunbury IGA Supermarket - Sunbury 98-122 O’Shannesy Street • Sunbury Killara Family Store - Sunbury 57 Phillip Drive • Sunbury Strathearn Glen Corner Store 10 Strathearn Drive • Sunbury Sacco & Saba Cafe 2/20-30 Sussex Street • Sunbury Rosenthal Shopping Centre 90 Vineyard Road • Tylden Tylden Store 36 Trentham Road • Woodend Keatings Real Estate - Woodend 83 Calder Highway • Woodend Coles Supermarket - Woodend 61 High Street • Woodend II cafe 66 High Street • Woodend Andrews Cafe 77 High Street • Woodend Fox in the Chamber 90 High Street • Woodend Jellis Craig Real Estate - Woodend 91 High Street • Woodend Maison Maloa Licensed Cafe & Gifts 95 High Street • Woodend Woodend Newsagency 101 High Street • Woodend Paysanne Cafe 112 High Street • Woodend Bourkies Bake House 115 High Street • Woodend RT Edgar Real Estate - Woodend 124 High Street • Woodend BP Service Station - Woodend 130 High Street • Woodend Woodend Community Centre High Street & Forest Street

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Tuesday, 7 December, 2021 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 15

PUZZLES No. 058

To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.

easy

5 8 4 6 9 9 3 7 8 7 9 8 5 4 6 2 5 1 7 6 4 8 1 2 9 6 4 9 3 8 medium

4 8 2

2 4 8

1 5

Insects (7) Recipe (7) Transcribed (11) Long, slippery fish (3) Burn (6) Software (7) Nigh (4) Conglomerate (10) Aficionado (10) Daze (4) Weapon (7) Sweethearts (6) Gamy (3) Senile decay (11) Late (7) Equal; even — (7)

DOWN Ram (4) Eager; anticipatory (9) Depress (5)

1 2 3

DECODER

No. 058

5 7 3

1 4 3

7 8

US museum (11) Excess (3) Enmity (7) Netizens (5) Attraction (10) Chart toppers (4-7) Comprehended (10) Break (9) Blasphemous (7) Rubbish (5) State (5) Tidings (4) Churl (3)

4 5 6 7 8 12 13 16 18 21 23 24 27

ACROSS 1 5 9 10 11 12 14 15 17 19 20 22 25 26 28 29

No. 058

7 6 9

QUICK CROSSWORD

6 8 9 7 hard

1 2 5

10 11 12 13

14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26

B G 17

Today’s Aim: 7 words: Good 10 words: Very good

6 4 2 5 7 9 3 8 1

3 1 9 2 8 4 7 5 6

5 2 4 8 6 3 1 7 9

Q U

4 LETTERS ATOM FLEW HUTS KNEE NOES RATE SAID SARI SLED SLEW SURE TIPS TYPE WARM

No. 058

MESSY MULLS OLDER OUNCE PANSY PEDAL PETAL RANGE RENTS RESIN RIPEN SEEMS SIRES SOFAS SPANS SPARS SPEED STATE TINGE TRASH TREND

TULIP URINE USING WHIRR 6 LETTERS LEADEN RECESS STALER VETTED 7 LETTERS CHICANO EPISODE EVASION

STARCHY SUNTANS TORMENT 8 LETTERS DEMERITS DENOUNCE EXTRACTS LIBERALS 11 LETTERS RESTFULNESS SPEEDOMETER

antique, inquest, quaint, QUAINTEST, quasi, quest, quiet, quiets, quint, quintet, quite, sequin, squat, squint 10-12-21

No. 058 Insert the missing letters to make 10 words – five reading across the grid and five reading down. NOTE: more than one solution may be possible

E A P S G R E E

4 3 1 6 9 8 5 2 7

2 8 7 1 3 5 6 9 4

9 6 5 7 4 2 8 1 3

3 7 2 9 1 8 4 5 6

5 9 4 6 3 2 8 1 7

8 6 9 2 5 1 3 7 4

7 2 3 4 6 9 1 8 5

4 1 5 8 7 3 2 6 9

2 5 7 1 8 4 6 9 3

6 4 8 3 9 7 5 2 1

9 3 1 5 2 6 7 4 8

3 7 1 5 6 9 4 2 8

9 8 5 4 7 2 6 3 1

8 6 7 2 3 4 1 9 5

1 5 3 6 9 7 2 8 4

2 4 9 8 1 5 3 6 7

5 3 6 9 4 8 7 1 2

7 9 2 1 5 3 8 4 6

4 1 8 7 2 6 9 5 3

16 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 7 December, 2021

R E S T A X L Y N T E R

C L E

8 7 6 9 2 1 4 3 5

QUICK QUIZ

Valles Marineris is a canyon on which planet in our solar system?

The Rime of the Ancient Mariner is a 1798 work by which poet? Which Mexican folk song, famously adapted by Ritchie Valens, contains the lyrics 'Yo no soy marinero, soy capitan'?

1 9 3 4 5 7 2 6 8

6 2 4 3 8 1 5 7 9

5 LETTERS ABIDE ADOBE ADORE AGAIN AISLE AROSE ATONE CEASE CLERK CRAZE DOZES DROOL EGGED ENACT ERODE EXTOL FLOAT HERON INEPT LEERS

1 8 6 7 4 5 9 3 2

7 5 8 3 1 6 9 4 2

T A

T L

Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural words ending in “s”.

E A

9-LETTER WORD

14 words: Excellent

medium

3 LETTERS ADO ALE ARE COW DEM EEL ERA GEE HEM ILL INN ITS NAB NED OHM OUR RAG RAN RED RUE RUM SIP TEA TOT WED

easy

D L Z V P H U E F K N R O

hard

5x5

2 7 3 1 2 4 4 6 7 3 5 4

3 1 6 2 8 9 7 1 4 5 3

A Y X WQ T I C J M S B G

WORDFIT

In which medium does artist Marina Abramovic (pictured) primarily work?

The codename 'Marine One' usually denotes what vehicle used by the US President?

Which nation-state takes its name from Saint Marinus?

The Marianas Trench is found in which ocean?

In which country would you find the region known as The Maritimes?

What planetary feature does 'lunar mare' refer to?

10 Which sea did the ancient Romans call Mare Nostrum, meaning 'our sea'? ANSWERS: 1. Mars 2. Samuel Taylor Coleridge 3. La Bamba 4. Performance 5. Helicopter 6. San Marino 7. Pacific 8. Canada 9. Large, dark plains on the moon’s surface 10. The Mediterranean Sea

SUDOKU

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Looking to contact old school friends either Jill or Sue Wood who attended Sunbury High in 1968–1969 Please write to Hazel Ireson PO BOX 687 Rosanna.

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2 POSITIONS

HAIRDRESSER & BARBER

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Award-winning boutique hairdressing salon is seeking and an Experienced Hairdresser with skills in all areas of hairdressing and also a separate position for an Experienced Barber to join our outstanding team in Gisborne with immediate start.

Apply now: Phone 0411 161 563 gszatbooks@yahoo.com.au

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DISCRIMINATION IN ADVERTISING IS UNLAWFUL The Victorian Equal Opportunity Act 1995 makes it unlawful for an advertiser to show any intention to discriminate on the basis of sex, pregnancy, race, age, marital status, political or religious belief or physical features, disability, lawful sexual activity/sexual orientation, HIV/AIDS status or on the basis of being associated with a person with one of the above characteristics, unless covered by an exception under the Act. As Network Classifieds could be legally liable if an unlawful advertisement is printed, Network Classifieds will not accept advertisements that appear to break the law. For more information about discrimination in advertising, contact your legal advisers or the Equal Opportunity Commission.

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ADVERTISERS, in this section are qualified practitioners and offer nonsexual services.

• Manage all aspects of property management with medium sized portfolio • Agents representative certiﬁcate preferred • Experience Essential • A valid driver’s license • Comprehensive knowledge of Console Cloud would be advantageous, but not essential • Ability to work autonomously and in a team environment • Be able to work under busy conditions and ability to prioritise work • Excellent communication and high-level organisational skills • Experience in rental appraisals and listing properties • VCAT experience preferred but not essential • Above average pay rate and commission apply All applications to be treated in the strictest conﬁdence.

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MOTOR STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Sporty new option on SUV market

Genesis GV70 is an attractive looking vehicle with rear lines that are definitely SUV.

(Pictures: Supplied)

By Ewan Kennedy, Marque Motoring South Korean car manufacturer Genesis has launched its GV70, a medium luxury SUV in Australia. It’s the company’s first vehicle in this class and has some interesting features both inside and out. There is a choice of three engines driving through an eight-speed automatic and either rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. Genesis GV70 offers eleven exterior colours, seven interior colours and four trim insert to let buyers have their individual preferences. The GV70 is available with an optional Sport Line Package and/or Luxury Package. The Sport Line Package was fitted to our test car. Details are provided in the body of this road test review. The Luxury Package has intelligent Front-Lighting System, puddle lamps with Genesis logo and rear privacy glass. Prices, excluding on-road costs, range from $66,400 for a GV70 2.5T 2WD to $83,276 for a 3.5T Sport AWD. Genesis sees its vehicles as competing with the upmarket German marques and the GV70 is certainly part of that plan. However, we feel that’s an almost impossible wish.

Styling Genesis GV70 is an attractive looking vehicle with lines that are definitely SUV in the rear. Some competitors have gone for a semi-coupe look, but the Genesis stylists have given us a vehicle with a practical tail. The rearmost side windows have a fascinating shape that certainly stands out from others in this ever more popular segment of the car market in Australia. The large panoramic sunroof is likely to be a strong selling point. The large grille is very much after the style of the latest Genesis cars and seems sure to appeal to potential buyers. Its slim horizontal front lights broaden the frontal appearance. The Sport Line Package has 19-inch Sport Line alloy wheels, sporty front and rear bumpers, gloss black sport radiator grille, front skid plate and roof rails. It has a dark chrome radiator grille surround and window frame trims.

Interior Inside, the Sport Line package features Nappa

AT A GLANCE MODEL RANGE GV70 2.5T petrol 2WD: $66,400 GV70 2.5T petrol AWD: $68,786 GV70 3.5T Sport petrol AWD: $83,276 GV70 2.2D diesel AWD: $71,676

Note: These prices do not include government or dealer delivery charges. Contact your local Genesis dealer for drive-away prices.

leather and suede appointed sport seats, suede headlining and pillars, a sport steering wheel, alloy pedals, aluminium trim. There are sport gauges for oil temperature and also torque and turbo boost gauges to let the driver get the best from the engine. The centre console is bulky and tall and really seems to separate the front occupants from one another.

turbo-diesel producing 154kW of power and 440 Nm of torque. It uses an electronically controlled Genesis AWD system. The flagship GV70 has 3.5-litre twin-turbo petrol V6 with 279kW and 530Nm it’s also paired with the electronically controlled Genesis AWD system, and an electro-mechanical limited slip differential on the rear axle.

Safety Infotainment The screen is very wide but not as deep as we would like it, so we couldn’t not see as far enough ahead on the map. Reaching for the far end of the screen while driving could be too distracting. Obviously, you shouldn’t be doing this - but human nature being what it is… Entertainment comes from a nine-speaker Genesis audio system which has excellent quality of aural output. There’s wireless (Qi standard) smartphone charging.

Engines / transmissions Engines on offer are the GV70 2.5T which has a 2.5 litre turbo-petrol four-cylinder with 224kW of power and 422Nm of torque. This is the model we tested. Genesis GV70 2.2D has 2.2 litre four-cylinder

18 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 7 December, 2021

Every GV70 model has eight airbags, with a centre side airbag between the front seats to prevent serious injuries due to potential driver and passenger collision. To help avoid a crash there’s Genesis intelligent Active Safety Control technologies.

Driving The Genesis GV70 is quite a large vehicle, but doesn’t feel like it on the road where it’s simple to drive within the lanes, even to smooth out the bends by clipping the corners. It’s not a sports machine but comes closer than many others in the class that we have tested. The engine may be a four-cylinder 2.5 litre turbo-petrol, but it produces 224kW of power and 422Nm of torque. Once you get below the reasonably short period of turbo lag it gets up and flies with the feeling and sound being

almost that of a decent sized six-cylinder that’s smart. The eight-speed automatic transmission is quick to response to the needs of the driver and we really didn’t find the need to override the choices made by the transmission’s computer. However, it does like a drink and we were typically using petrol at a rate of eleven to thirteen litres per hundred kilometres around town. This dropped to a much more acceptable seven to eight litres per hundred during easy paced country touring. Hallelujah! Wonderful news for me and anyone else who has polarised sunglasses. I can read the image projected on the screen giving vehicle speed and other details. On other cars I have to tilt my head to read it, which is ridiculous. Hopefully all other car makers will follow Genesis’ lead.

Summing up The first attempt at providing an SUV with looks and practicality means the Genesis GV70 is likely to appeal to many buyers in this burgeoning market segment. It obviously doesn’t have the snob appeal of the big-name German vehicles, but if you can overlook that it’s well worth a spot on your list of potential SUVs .

Age proves no barrier for Woodend’s cricketers Young and old have joined forces in Woodend to form an unusual third senior cricket side in the Gisborne and District Cricket Association. Woodend had to dip into its junior program to pull together enough players to take to the field during their first game of the season against Rupertswood on November 27. Five under-13s boys’ players took part in the Saturday contest after finishing their junior matches earlier that day. Angus Black, James Gray, Harry White, Luke Cameron and Fynn Raco all tried their hand with the bat and ball in the 35-over contest, where Woodend was ultimately unable to chase Rupo’s total of 6-196. In his first senior match, under-13s player Cameron provided some stability in the middle of the order with 15 runs. Woodend also dipped into its most experienced reserve of players, calling on 70-year-old Dave Bower, who hadn’t played a senior match in 15 years. Bower provided a useful 13 runs in a productive opening partnership with Steve

Woodend’s third side after its first game of the season.

Rollinson, who high-scored for Woodend with 24. Woodend finished its innings with a total of 1-119. Woodend captain Stewart Black said he was glad to be able to throw a team together despite the loss. “We’re just happy for the kids to make up the numbers so we can actually get a game,” Black said. “We made sure in our esky this week,

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instead of all beers, we had some Pepsi Maxs for them to have after the game as well.” Black said he felt the club might be battling for numbers the whole season. “This is our third season now with COVID-19 related interruptions,” he said. “Three years ago we didn’t play finals because [the pandemic] just started. And then last season, the season started late as we were coming out of lockdown and the exact same thing happened this season.

Historic win for Rockies By Oliver Lees History was made at the weekend when Macedon Ranges and Kyneton squared off for the first time in the Country Basketball League north-west competition. After an extensive campaign to build a second CBL team in the shire, the Macedon Ranges Rockies were born, and this weekend played a double-header to open their campaign. After going down 80-60 to last year’s grand finalists Maryborough on Saturday, the Rockies redeemed themselves with a comprehensive 112-45 victory over the Tigers the next day. In front of a packed crowd at Woodend Buffalo Sports Stadium, the Rockies found their rhythm early and maintained a dominant position. Rockies coach and lifelong Macedon Ranges basketball figure Michael Ryan said he was pleased to get the win on what was a special day for the region. “It was such a significant win, tremendous to be able to do that in front of a decent sized crowd, with both sides of the stadium and benches completely full bringing a really good atmosphere,” he said. “I actually grew up in Woodend and was first introduced to basketball through the MRBA [Macedon Ranges Basketball Association], when we used to play at Tony Clarke Stadium in 1990. “I’m born and bred, so it meant a lot to me. I was really grateful for the opportunity to coach the team.” Ryan said he was pleased with the team’s overall performance and teamwork given it was just their second match as a unit. “We’ve got a really solid core, a lot of mature heads and leaders, and that started to show through,” he said. “I liked our defence and the pace we played at, you can probably say it was that defence that led to those [scoring] opportunities.” Billy Feben was the standout for the Rockies on the offensive end. The point guard notched 40 points, combining his strong inside and outside game to make six three pointers and eight field goals from the floor. The Rockies had five players score in double-digits and played a total of 12 players. Captain Tom Scott, who was central to forming the committee that led to the club’s introduction to the CBL, chipped in with a handy 15 points.

Macedon Ranges point guard Billy Feben drives to the ring.(Melissa Ryan)

For the Tigers, Jared Thompson led the way with 19 points. The match also provided the opportunity for the community to celebrate the service of Macedon Ranges basketball legend, Michael Grantham. Grantham was finally presented with his Silver Service Award which he received from Basketball Victoria earlier this year. Across 25 years, Grantham was involved in laying the foundation for a number of the

MRBA’s programs and did his bit as a player, coach and president of the association. Ryan said it was a just reward on a special occasion. “It was brilliant, he’s been really, really great for the club,” he said. “For him to see something that he envisioned 20 odd years ago is really special.” The Rockies will continue the CBL season with another double-header on Saturday and Sunday next week.

“I think a lot of people are not playing because they’ve found other things to do, I’ve run into a few teams that have said the same thing.” According to a statement from GDCA, the association and other country associations have experienced a downturn in interest in the sport. Despite that, Black said there were plenty of positives to take from their first hit out. A notable highlight, he said, was when his son, Angus, took his first senior wicket. Black said it was particularly special given that it was a fellow under-13s player that caught the errant cover drive from the Rupo batsmen. “I was never going to be able to move fast enough to catch it, but the young guy was quicker and got there,” Black said. “We think that might be the lowest combined age for a wicket in Woodend senior cricket.” Oliver Lees

Darby earns AFLW list spot Former Riddells Creek junior player Kate Darby has earned her spot back on an AFLW list, after being picked up by the Geelong Cats ahead of the 2022 season. Darby will replace Renee Garing, who will miss the season due to family commitments. A key forward, Darby was first drafted to Carlton with the 126th pick in the 2016 AFLW draft. After debuting for the Blues in 2017, she was unable to retain her spot in the side and played just two games that year. After being delisted at season’s end, she joined the Cats where she managed six goals across 10 games. Darby took time away from the sport during the 2021 season following the announcement of her pregnancy. The 31-year-old said she was excited to be given another opportunity. “This is the best possible scenario,” Darby said. “I knew I would like to play again, and I thought I would love to come back, but I had no idea how I would go. “Once I had Ella [her daughter] I thought I would be keen to see how I go and so it was a goal but it is still unexpected, so it is awesome and I am super happy.” Geelong women’s football and pathways head Brett Johnson said Darby had been outstanding in her training since returning to the game. “Starting a family is a joyous time, and we have worked with Kate to ensure that she has been able to combine parenthood with her desire to continue as an elite athlete and part of our program,” Johnson said. “We are equally thrilled that Renee is expecting and will be starting a family with her husband Tony. “Our club believes that players should be supported to combine their family life and desire to pursue or continue their careers in AFLW. We will continue to work alongside players to ensure an environment that allows for the combination of family and footy.” Oliver Lees

Tuesday, 7 December, 2021 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 19