Star Weekly - Sunbury Macedon Ranges - 14th December 2021 by Star Weekly

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Smile, it’s Santa Claus Christmas has landed in Sunbury, with the arrival of Santa Claus at the Sunbury Square Shopping Centre. Until Christmas Eve, Santa will be spreading the Christmas cheer and taking photos at the shopping centre before taking off on an around the world present-giving spree. Santa will also be making an appearance at the Sunbury Aquatic and Leisure Centre on December 18, where kids can enjoy the water along with an animal show and a Christmas photobooth. For those unable to share their Christmas wishes with Santa in-person, Hume council has set up North Pole letterboxes around town. Details: hume.vic.gov.au/Christmas

Santa at Sunbury Square Shopping Centre with three-year-old Kinsley. (Damjan Janevski) 259420_03

Sunbury rallies for Bella By Oliver Lees The Sunbury community has rallied behind a family that has been devastated by a cancer diagnosis for their eight-year-old daughter. Bella first developed signs of illness in recent months when lumps formed on her groin. Bella’s parents, long-term Sunbury residents Johnny and Jess Makai, immediately sought medical advice for the abnormal growths, but were reassured it was nothing requiring urgent action. That is until a month or so ago, when Bella started to experience dizzy spells and a consistent fever. After Bella was admitted to the Royal Children’s Hospital, doctors decided to remove the lumps.

Following the surgery, the doctors delivered the news to Johnny and Jess that their eight-year-old daughter had lymphoma cancer and would require a months-long stay in hospital and chemotherapy treatment. Adding to the strain of the already difficult news was the need for Johnny and Jess split their time between caring for Bella in hospital and their newborn baby, Winter. As a self-employed painter, Johnny also had to cease his business operations to focus on his family. Jess’ sister, Jedda Hennessy, said the juggling act had been difficult for the Makai family, who also have a son, Melachi, in primary school. Hoping to provide some support for the family, Jess’ cousin Danielle Olson started a digital fundraiser to help them cover their daily

expenses. In less than a month, the fundraiser has accumulated more than $59,000. Danielle said she couldn’t believe her eyes when she saw the donations roll in. “We only put the goal at $10,000, to help manage the mortgage and the daily expenses, and it was already at $25,000 within a few hours,” she said. “Bella is very active and very creative as well. We always say that Bella is very spiritual, she’s always been a happy and healthy girl. “We just want to say thank you, Jess and Johnny are too overwhelmed, they can’t even bring themselves to look [at the fundraiser], a huge thank you to everyone who has donated.” Details: www.gofundme.com/f/the-makaifamily-need-your-help

The community has dug deep after eight-year-old Bella was diagnosed with lymphoma cancer. (Supplied)

Merry Christmas Sacred Heart College wishes all in the Macedon Ranges & Sunbury communities a peaceful and joyous Christmas. We congratulate our wonderful Year 12 students, the ‘Class of 2021’, on their achievements. We are confident their results and selected pathways will lead the way to rewarding futures. Sacred Heart College Kyneton

www.shckyneton.catholic.edu.au T: 5421 1238 E: principal@shckyneton.catholic.edu.au

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Congratulations Class of 2021

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Vote on bridge future this week By Oliver Lees

“This vital upgrade will improve visibility and make it safer for everyone to enter and exit Kilmore Road,” Ms Thomas said. Ms Thomas said that every avenue had been explored to minimise the impact on the bridge, but that an analysis had found a widening of the existing structure was necessary to add lanes and shared user paths. A Regional Roads Victoria (RRV) report also found there were associated flood risks with the existing bluestone bridge and channel. The development has been subject to a public petition to ‘Save Gisborne’s historic bridge’, which has now accrued more than 600

digital signatures. Council also received eight public submissions relating to the heritage overlay proposal. In one submission, a Gisborne resident stated: “We must do whatever we can to save this bridge and preserve the heritage of our town.” In a written statement, the Gisborne & Mount Macedon Districts Historical Society stated that it believes it would be possible to raise the underside of the bridge, improving flood capacity, and therefore keeping the bridge while accommodating the roundabout design.

(Supplied)

The community and stakeholders have had their say on the efforts of Macedon Ranges council to protect a historic bridge in Gisborne from development. This week, Macedon Ranges councillors will vote on whether council should permanently protect Gisborne’s Bunjil Creek Bridge, bluestone channel and historically significant trees located in Howey Reserve. The efforts to introduce a new heritage overlay come as preparatory works are under way to develop the intersection.

The planned works will see the construction of a new roundabout and crossing over Bunjil Creek, in a bid to improve traffic flow and road safety. The intersection upgrade will see small sections of the bridge’s bluestone removed, which will then be re-used in the project’s final beautification works. A heritage assessment of the bridge found that it was constructed in 1874, while the mature trees are dated around 1855. Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas said the upgrade was necessary to accommodate Gisborne’s growing population.

Rail Infrastructure Alliance’s Gap Road Level Crossing Removal senior project engineer Ian Condos and MP Josh Bull.

Level crossing works progress

(Supplied)

Bike club on track after hard year The Sunbury BMX Club enjoyed a day of family fun last weekend to wrap up what had been a difficult year for the club. Members gathered at the club to celebrate the festive season, with Santa in attendance spreading some cheer and handing out presents along the way. As well as being unable to hold events due to COVID-19 restrictions, the Sunbury BMX Club suffered a further blow in February

when two of its bikes were stolen. But thanks to the kindness of a former member who donated some bikes and a $2000 grant from the state government, the club was able to replenish its stocks for next year. Club president Shawn Hindmarsh said he was glad to see families from the club get together and enjoy each other’s company after a challenging year of isolation.

“Big thanks to all the people behind the scenes that made not only today but every event this year come together and work so seamlessly,” he said. “Thank you to all our riding members, their parents and family that came along, we hope you all had a fantastic day and we look forward to seeing you all next year.” Oliver Lees

Fatal six car Calder crash in Diggers Rest A serious crash involving six vehicles on the Calder Freeway at the Diggers Rest-Bulla Road overpass last week has left one person dead and others in hospital. Ambulance Victoria paramedics and State Emergency Service (SES) Sunbury rescue crews were called to the scene of the multiple vehicle collision at 2.30pm on December 6, with five cars, one boat on a trailer, as well as a truck with a semi-trailer carrying grain all involved in the incident. Upon arriving SES Sunbury confirmed that five persons were trapped in two of the vehicles, including a family vehicle with two adults and two children. “Almost all [were] in serious conditions and three severely trapped”, a SES Sunbury

spokesperson shared online. A Fire Rescue Victoria crew from Melton arrived on the scene and attended to the vehicle with a single male passenger, which was covered in grain from the semi-trailer, while the SES Sunbury crew worked to rescue the four people in the other vehicle. Victoria Police have confirmed that a two-year-old Caulfield South girl died at the scene and that her parents are in critical condition. A 35-year-old man, a 37-year-old woman and a one-year-old girl all from the same vehicle and all from Caulfield South, were taken to hospital. A 62-year-old man in a ute was trapped under the truck until he was freed by

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emergency services, he is also in hospital in critical condition. The 42-year-old Donald man who was driving the truck has been released pending further inquiries. Victoria Police have confirmed the investigation is ongoing and that they are eager to speak with any witnesses. An SES Sunbury spokesperson said it was a particularly difficult call out. “We would like to thank both the Sunbury community and our Orange Family across Victoria for their messages of support and their kind words for our people,” the spokesperson said. Details: www.crimestoppersvic.com.au Oliver Lees

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Junior Sunbury BMX Club members enjoying the track once again.

Works to remove the Gap Road level crossing will continue through December and January with intermittent disruptions to traffic, according to Road Projects Victoria. The level crossing will be removed to make way for a road that will run beneath the station’s tracks. Star Weekly reported in September that single lane road closures are to be expected until the second quarter of 2022. The boring of holes for piling will continue until December 22 and will resume on January 11 on both sides of Gap Road and Station Street, with medium and high-level noises expected throughout that period. The suite of works will include the installation of power and drainage services. Other service relocation works, such as non-destructive digging, will occur along Gap Road, Station Street and O’Shannassy Street until early into next year. “Until Friday, December 17, a section of the eastbound outer lane on Station Street, near the O’Shanassy Street roundabout, will remain temporarily closed and barriers in place,” a Rail Projects Victoria spokesperson said. Details: railprojects.vic.gov.au Oliver Lees

Tuesday, 14 December, 2021 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 5

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Inclusive luncheon Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health (SCCH) will host Victorian Pride Centre board chair Hang Vo for a LGBTIQA+ event at the Shamrock Hotel in Kyneton. The Birds of a Feather luncheon is the next installment of a four party series run by SCCH to help the queer community to connect in an inclusive environment. Details: belinda. brain@scch.org.au

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Local history grants The next round of local history grants are now open for community groups planning projects that share stories of the state’s past. The coverage can include school anniversaries, sports club history, community exhibitions and more. Applications close midnight Monday, January 24. Details: grants@ prov.vic.gov.au.

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Macedon Ranges mayor Jennifer Anderson (centre left) and Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas (centre right) with pupils from Manna Gum kindergarten. (Supplied)

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Blicavs named for World Cup Sunbury product Sara Blicavs has been named in the Australian Opals squad for the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup in Sydney next year. The 28-year-old forward first debuted for the Opals in 2015 and has since participated in the 2016 and 2020 Summer Olympics. Blicavs attended Sunbury College and played at the Sunbury Jets before moving to the Melbourne Tigers.

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The Manna Gum Family and Children’s Centre in Gisborne will receive an upgraded outdoor play space late next year. The kindergarten, on Robertson Street, will receive funding for the works through the state government’s Building Blocks grant program, which contributes to refurbishment projects. Macedon Ranges mayor Jennifer Anderson said the upgrade will help pupils get the best out of their school environment. “… This funding will provide Manna Gum with the opportunity to develop a nature based learning environment where children can learn, grow and thrive for many years to come,” Cr Anderson said. “The upgrade will address important

accessibility issues by incorporating wider paths and the extension of outdoor play spaces to utilise all available outdoor space. “Importantly it will also create accessible ‘outdoor classroom’ spaces that will be areas where children can learn through exploring and playing.” Across the shire, kindergartens will also share in more than $83,000 in grant funding to provide further IT equipment. Next year, parents can access five hours of free three-year-old kinder for their children at council-operated kindergartens. Details: www.mrsc.vic.gov.au

FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Sunbury & Macedon Ranges Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Oliver Lees

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Push on for better bus shelters By Oliver Lees Advocates in the Macedon Ranges are calling for the safety and accessibility of regional bus stops to be improved, following the release of a study that found them to be typically lower quality than in metropolitan areas. The ‘Getting to the Bus’ report, released by Victoria Walks, surveyed 436 Victorian bus users to ascertain the quality of bus services across the state. According to the study, only 16 per cent of regional and rural areas have bus shelters,

compared with 29 per cent in Melbourne. Similarly only 56 per cent of regional bus stops are wheelchair accessible, compared with 65 per cent in metropolitan areas. Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health community connections manager Carly Visscher said the lack of transport is the number one barrier to healthcare, social interaction and accessing essential services in the Macedon Ranges. “Many of our program participants do not drive and this impacts their ability to get to appointments and group activities,” Ms

Visscher said. “We do offer a pick-up service for a number of our programs and there are volunteer driver services within the region but there are often long waiting lists.” Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas said she was aware of the disparity. “We know there is more work that needs to be done which is why we regularly review safety across our network, including access to bus stops, and welcome the community’s input in making our roads safer for everyone,” Ms Thomas said. Ms Thomas said a new shelter is being

installed at the Quinn Court bus stop at Kyneton Hospital. The survey also found that almost a quarter of all bus shelters in regional Victoria were left as grass or soil. Public Transport Users Association president Tony Morton said this can prove a barrier for certain people, such as people with prams or limited mobility, to access public transport services. But right now, that walk from home to the local bus stop is often just the first of many barriers we put in the way of people using public transport,” Mr Morton said.

Cracking a million eggs to make a difference Pioneering ethical egg entrepreneur Josh Murray last week delivered his millionth egg to charity. Since the age of nine, Mr Murray has been building his ethical chicken egg business, Josh’s Rainbow Eggs, from his family’s farm in Monegeetta. As well as selling his produce at supermarkets across regional and metropolitan Victoria, Mr Murray also provides dozens of eggs to families in-need, by matching any donations made on his business website. Now 12 years into the business, Mr Murray said he’s proud of the ethical empire he’s developed. “We make sure our hens have the best life possible,” he said. “They range on wide-open paddocks, sleep in mobile solar powered sheds and do all the things hens love to do – forage for seeds and bugs, dust and sun-bathe.” With the help of the federal government’s

Department of Social Services and OzHarvest, Josh’s Rainbow Eggs have contributed more than 70,000 eggs to 15,000 families at cost price. Mr Murray said the holiday season was the perfect time to consider giving back. “Victorians now have a wonderful opportunity to help us donate more eggs to families struggling over Christmas,” Mr Murray said. “For the very first time we can ensure that families in need – especially children – are receiving the nutrition they require.” Details: joshsrainboweggs.com.au Oliver Lees

Josh Murray has built his ethical egg business from scratch, all while giving back to those most in-need. (Supplied)

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Sunbury fire response times lag By Oliver Lees The Sunbury fire service is below the average response time in metropolitan Melbourne, according to new data. The state government data, released last week, showed a quarter of emergency incidents attended by Sunbury fire crews in the June quarter were outside the recommended response times. Standard response times for Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) for all emergency incidents across the state is 7.7 minutes. The Sunbury crews responded to 90 per cent

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It’s not just people who live in rural areas that need to be aware - Ken Block

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of emergency calls just within 10 minutes. The crews attended 87 incidents in the September quarter – 79 were emergency situations. Throughout the reporting period, FRV also implemented additional safety precautions due to COVID-19. FRV commissioner Ken Block said despite

not meeting the target in the area, overall, FRV had performed strongly. “FRV’s primary goal is to enhance the services we deliver to the community as we continue on our journey and work with key stakeholders to identify, investigate and implement measures that will increase and strengthen our emergency response capabilities,” he said. “FRV is working with the Fire Services Implementation Monitor to ensure we meet existing and future demand and keep Victorians and our firefighters safe.” According to the Australian Seasonal Bushfire Outlook, the heavy winter and spring

rains are expected to make fast running grassfires a pressing concern. Coming into the fire season, Commissioner Block said it was imperative all landowners prepared for the benefit of themselves and emergency services. “It’s not just people who live in rural areas that need to be aware of their risk of grassfires this summer – if you live on the urban fringe you could also be at risk,” he said. “If you live on the urban fringe next to grasslands and a fire breaks out, walk two streets back into the built-up areas and wait for emergency services to arrive.

Romsey park progress The Romsey Ecotherapy Park is one step closer with earthworks under way for the project’s second and third stages. The innovative park space, which will include a sensory garden, a sound sculpture and a five-metre tall kinetic wind sculpture, received its final stage of funding from the state government in May. The progress on the park follows more than a decade of advocacy from a group of locals seeking a nature-based activity space in Romsey. The park will also include an arts culture space featuring an outdoor performance space suitable for the performing arts or pop-up art exhibits. A community fundraising effort has also allowed for artists from the community to be commissioned to complete pieces that will complement the space. Lancefield artist Brigit Heller will create

a portal statute that will be installed at the entrance of the park. Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas said this was an exciting project for the region. “It will play such an important role in enhancing the health and wellness for the community while supporting more jobs,” Ms Thomas said. “This has been a long-held community vision and I am so pleased to see it getting closer to reality – our dedicated volunteers and community members should be commended for their efforts.”

Macedon Ranges council deputy mayor Rob Guthrie, Romsey Ecotherapy Park advocate Jenny Stillman, Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas, advocate Sue Hayes and artist Brigit Heller. (Supplied)

Print and Online Sales Executive Star Weekly Star Weekly seeks an enthusiastic sales executive to work across our print, digital, social and online platforms. 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

Have your say Melbourne Airport Rail will connect Melbourne Airport to the rail network for the ﬁrst time, getting people to where they need to go with easy transfers to metro and regional lines and trips into the heart of the city in around 30 minutes. Trains will run from a new station at the airport to Sunshine Station, then through the Metro Tunnel into the CBD before continuing on to the Cranbourne and Pakenham lines.

— Planning and environmental matters — Walking and cycling connections. Complete the survey Let us know what matters to you by completing the online survey at airportrail.vic.gov.au/survey or calling 1800 105 105.

Applicants will need their own reliable vehicle for which we will provide an allowance.

You can learn more about Melbourne Airport Rail by visiting airportrail.vic.gov.au.

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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So far this year we have sought community feedback to help us shape the project scope and how we manage potential construction impacts.

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Finding more than a job By Oliver Lees After six years of searching for any form of employment, Emma Brown finally landed her first job at Woolworths, with the help of her friend Marilou Elderfield. The pair met through the Sunbury & Districts branch of Citizen Advocacy, which has been connecting volunteers with people with intellectual disabilities since 1985. Program co-ordinator David Abela has been involved in the organisation for 30 years. He said the primary function of the service is to find a suitable advocate for a program participant, so they can lend a hand wherever necessary. “We wait until we try to get a good fit between the needs of the person and the skills of the advocate,” David said. “It’s not just the next person in the door who gets matched to the next person waiting. “If a person is isolated for instance, they’ll need an advocate with enough time to be able to visit them regularly. “Or perhaps the protege needs help with their budgeting, so we’ll find someone with those skills.” David said it’s also important for each pair to be able to form a genuine friendship in order to introduce a non-transactional relationship into the participant’s life. In Emma’s case, she desperately wanted to find a job, but that wasn’t the only thing that mattered. “I was wanting to find a friend, really … finding someone who can help me out with things,” Emma said. Marilou said when she met Emma two years ago they clicked immediately. And Marilou has been instrumental in landing Emma her first job. As well as helping her craft her CV, Marilou became fed up

Marilou Elderfield and Emma Brown outside Emma’s new place of employment.

with the bureaucratic process, and took her concerns directly to Sunbury MP Josh Bull. “It took about three months, and I was losing hope, so I followed it up,” Marilou said. “Emma persevered to arrange for an interview. She called three times, if she gave up, my effort would be for nothing.” Now in the job for three months, Emma

(David Abela)

said she’s still getting her bearings, but is glad to have finally made a breakthrough. “I was happy about it, like finally, getting somewhere,” she said. “I’m more looking for office admin work … but it’s a start.” Details: www.citizenadvocacysunbury. com.au/

NEWS

Council zeros in on climate Macedon Ranges council has strengthened its commitment to a zero emissions future by joining an alliance of more than 150 councils across the country committed to switching to clean energy. The Climate Council’s Cities Power Partnership incorporates approximately 65 per cent of the Australian population through its council memberships. The collective aims to direct local governments to make five action pledges to tackle climate change. In March, Macedon Ranges formally declared a climate emergency following a community petition of 405 signatures supporting the decision. Macedon Ranges mayor Jennifer Anderson said signing on to the partnership is about consolidation council’s commitment to curbing emissions. “Through the program, council has the opportunity to build on its emissions reduction work to date, share knowledge and experience with fellow member councils, and contribute to a collaborative effort to effectively address climate change at the local level,” Cr Anderson said. “We understand that meaningful action on climate change is a high priority for our residents and ratepayers and Cities Power Partnership will be an important step for council to kick start a number of important local climate projects.” Oliver Lees

Grassfires move so quickly, it’s impossible to outrun them. This summer, significant pasture growth in paddocks and roadsides means that fast-moving grassfires will be a serious risk across Victoria. Rural grassfires can be just as dangerous as bushfires, and can actually spread even faster, travelling at speeds of up to 25km/h. If you live close to open paddocks or grasslands, you could be at risk and need to be prepared. On high-risk Fire Danger Rated days, the safest option is to leave early.

Plan. Act. Survive. Go to vic.gov.au/knowfire

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Tuesday, 14 December, 2021 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 9

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Playgrounds lack shade in Hume By Michaela Meade A Hume councillor has called out the lack of shaded playgrounds in the municipality. The Melbourne Playgrounds group completed an analysis of 4000 playgrounds across Melbourne, and found that Hume had the lowest percentage of shaded playgrounds, with 0 per cent. Neighbouring municipality Whittlesea did not fare better, with the group finding 1 per cent of playgrounds in the area are shaded. According to the group, Glen Eira council had the highest percentage of shaded playgrounds,

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Playgrounds are simply inaccessible to families during the summer months - Naim Kurt

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at 50 per cent. Cr Naim Kurt said it was disappointing to see Hume rated last. He said the community should not have to be uncomfortable on hot slides when using playgrounds.

“I continue to receive feedback that many of Hume’s playgrounds are simply inaccessible to families during the summer months, because of limited shade being available,” Cr Kurt said. “Many families tell me they are travelling to other parts of Melbourne to access better shaded areas. “Previously council has not used shade sails at playgrounds due to cost and maintenance issues. With hotter summer months and skin cancer risks, I believe council needs to re-assess this position.” Hume council planning and development director Michael Sharp said the municipality’s

play spaces were designed with the inclusion of shade both in the structure of the playground and from established trees. He said the council also plants new trees as required to provide additional natural shade. “Shade sails are not used in open spaces due to the high cost of maintenance and safety issues associated with inappropriate use,” Mr Sharp said. “Council is developing its draft Open Space Strategy 2021-2031, which is scheduled for reporting to council in early 2022. The strategy will look at modern shade options that are more robust and low maintenance than sails.”

Jobs boost for young workers

Rob Ellis after receiving his award at the Melbourne Royal Wine Awards.

(Supplied)

Ranges winemaker tastes success Hanging Rock Winery’s Rob Ellis has become the first individual from the Macedon Ranges to take home an award at the Melbourne Royal Wine Awards. Mr Ellis’ pinot gris, gewurztraminer and riesling blend ‘The Jim Jim Three’ won Best White Blend at the awards ceremony held earlier this month. It marked a successful stretch for Mr Ellis and his family who own Hanging Rock Winery, with him also taking out the Best Other White award category at the Ballarat Wine Show. Mr Ellis said the last year had provided

terrific conditions for producing wine. “We had really good ripening conditions towards the end of the year, which helps build lots of fresh character, especially for the aromatic whites,” he said. “The only stress in the Macedon Ranges is that it’ll be too cool to ripen. “From the flavour balances when we picked the grapes, you could tell it was going to be special.” Before returning to his family vineyard a decade ago, Mr Ellis spent time abroad honing his skills in regions such as Burgundy, Oregon,

Champagne and Western Australia. Mr Ellis said his travels have taught him that the Macedon Ranges has plenty to offer in terms of produce, and had enjoyed seeing customers return to Hanging Rock Winery once again as restrictions eased. “We’re just very happy to be having cellar door customers again, we certainly missed them,” he said. “It’s a very positive feeling at the moment. It’s really all about getting people out here to enjoy themselves.”

A road network management and maintenance company has partnered with a charity which provides young people with job opportunities, to deliver vegetation management across the western and north-western suburbs. DM Roads has partnered with Good Cycles for the Western Region Maintenance contract, which is worth more than $2 million. Good Cycles and DM Roads will provide mentorship and coaching through a tailored six-month Supported Employment Program, to help young people facing barriers to gain experience and employment opportunities. The contract, which officially commenced on Wednesday, December 1, is expected to support more than 20 jobs for youth in the western suburbs. Good Cycles will provide environmentally-sustainable vegetation management and control under the contract. DM Roads contract manager Martin Kinski said: “At DM Roads, we believe social enterprises can flourish with the right support and we are proud to work with such an amazing team at Good Cycles, who share our values of championing diversity in the workforce and breaking down barriers to employment”. Good Cycles chief executive Jaison Hoernel said the organisation was committed to recruiting and reinvesting locally. Since November 2019, DM Roads has partnered with Good Cycles to improve the amenity and safety of 66 kilometres of shared user paths along the Hume and Western freeways. Good Cycles also runs three community bike shops, in addition to providing cleaning and asset management solution across Melbourne, Geelong, and Sydney.

Oliver Lees

Police arrest fugitive conman, Peter Foster, in Gisborne A six month investigation into the location of a fugitive wanted on alleged fraud charges has ended with the man being found in Gisborne last week. Peter Foster was arrested by the Australian Federal Police’s (AFP) Fugitive Apprehension Strike Team (FAST) on December 7. The 59-year-old was first arrested by Queensland Police following allegations of fraud in Port Douglas in August 2020. The charges relate to an alleged $2 million fraud offense. After being granted bail in March

2021 under the provision that he wear an electronic monitoring device, Foster failed to attend a court mandated plea hearing two months later. At this time the electronic monitoring device, which he was wearing around his ankle, stopped sending a signal, and he was officially declared a figurative. Following his arrest in Gisborne, Foster now faces an extradition process to Queensland. AFP assistant commissioner Nigel Ryan said the arrest was a credit to the collaboration

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

between the AFP and Queensland Police. “I also thank Victoria Police, NSW Police and the AUSTRAC-led FINTEL Alliance for their engagement and assistance on this matter,” Assistant Commissioner Ryan said. “We have been working hand in glove together and this man would still be at large without their operational input.” During the execution of a search warrant for his arrest, Foster attempted to evade police and disclosed a medical condition, for which he was then admitted to the Royal Melbourne Hospital for his condition to be

assessed. Assistant Commissioner Ryan said the FAST team also used information provided by the big four banks to track down Foster. “There is no safe haven for criminals in Australia. The AFP, with our partner agencies, are relentless in ensuring those wanted for crimes face justice. “The AFP’s world-leading technical and forensic capabilities is again demonstrating to offenders that there is nowhere to hide.” Oliver Lees

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Bindi Wines in Gisborne is welcoming back visitors. Right: Bindi Wines’ Michael Dhillon hard at work.

BEHIND THE NEWS

(Pictures: Supplied/Bindi Wines)

Enjoy a day out among the vines Wineries across Melbourne’s west are welcoming back visitors after multiple lengthy COVID-19 lockdowns. Michaela Meade spoke to local winemakers about how it felt to throw open the cellar doors once more.

ictoria’s lockdowns to contain COVID-19 also shut down the much-loved experience of a day trip to a winery. Staff at wineries across the state found themselves without customers to serve at the cellar door – the main source of income for the industry. That was until the state opened up after a sixth lockdown, and the winemaking venues were able to have guests once again. Shadowfax Winery in Werribee South has had bookings “flooding in” since being able to open again, according to general manager Phil Strachan.

‘‘

Shadowfax Winery in Werribee South is in high demand leading into Christmas.

“It’s great to be able to welcome back all our regular guests, who we have missed, and welcome new faces to our restaurant and cellar door,” Mr Strachan says. “As soon as we announced that we were reopening, bookings started flooding in. “It was so encouraging for us. “Being so close to Christmas, the demand is high, but now that the weather is warmer and the days longer, we’re able to accommodate guests both inside and out … being able to welcome people back is the reward at the end of 18 very challenging months.” Mr Strachan says the pandemic had impacted the restaurant side of the business, however the winemaking remained the same. “We were fortunate to be able to offer a takeaway service during each lockdown … which allowed us to continue trading and keep our staff employed,” he says. “For the wine side, it was business as usual and our winemaking team worked the whole way through, in the winery, testing and tasting wines, and ensuring that our vineyards were

meticulously maintained.” Mr Strachan says the support from the residents of Wyndham was invaluable to keeping morale going. “Without their loyalty, business and support, we wouldn’t be in the position we’re in,” he says. One of the main attractions that visitors to Shadowfax Winery can enjoy coming up to the Christmas season is Friday Twilight sessions, Mr Strachan says. “Featuring live music and our a la carte menu, people love the relaxed setting and atmosphere of our Friday nights,” he says. “It’s also a great chance for people to catch up with friends, family and colleagues for dinner in the lead up to Christmas.” Further away from the Melbourne CBD, Hanging Rock Winery in Newham is also “buzzing” since reopening, says direct-to-customer manager Michelle Toose. Ms Toose says the winery staff were “super excited” to welcome back visitors to enjoy wine, the sculptural exhibition ‘Art in the Vines’, and a day out in the picturesque Macedon Ranges. “The cellar door is buzzing again every day of the week, but especially the weekends with friends and families driving from Melbourne for a day out in nature,” Ms Toose says. “We

Seeing cars drive up the driveway again and the car park full on weekends brings us a lot of joy

’’

- Michelle Toose

(Pictures: Supplied/Shadowfax Winery)

are lucky to have so much space for everyone to spread out and enjoy our breathtaking views of Hanging Rock and the Macedon Ranges.” Although the winery’s regional location meant it could remain open when the greater Melbourne area was locked down, Ms Toose says the absence of visitors from the city was very much felt. “Cellar door numbers [were] not the same when Melbourne [was] in lockdown,” she says. “We were very grateful that we could still open to regional visitors at times during the year, but we certainly missed our Melbourne friends. “Seeing cars drive up the driveway again and the car park full on weekends brings us a lot of joy.” Ms Toose says she would welcome any and all visitors to Hanging Rock Winery over the Christmas period, and recommends making a day of it to explore the wider Macedon Ranges area. Bindi Wines in Gisborne had an unexpected aspect of its service thrive during the lockdowns, owner and generational winemaker Michael Dhillon says. Mr Dhillon said throughout the pandemic, online orders became a main source of income

for the business. He said the community had responded enthusiastically to the idea of purchasing wine online without leaving their houses. “They responded very strongly which is understandable, of course, because people were restricted to being at home,” he says. “They weren’t able to go to their favourite bars or restaurants or pubs and share wine, so they chose to do it at home. “We received great support in that respect … the restaurant business closed for a considerable amount of time, but the retailers and mailing lists picked up the slack.” Mr Dhillon, who was recognised as Winemaker of the Year at the 2022 Halliday Wine Companion awards, said the support from the local community was valuable for each winery, no matter the location. “All the local wineries appreciate very much the support of our local community,” he says. “We’ve got more and more good restaurants and independent wine shops who are supporting small, local wineries really well and it’s very much appreciated.” Mr Dhillon says the industry had gone back to normal after a tough pandemic experience. “It seems to be fully back in swing now.”

Tuesday, 14 December, 2021 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 11

NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Damjan Janevski’s winning photo, and Tara Murray’s winning story.

Star Weekly takes out awards Star Weekly picked up three gongs at this year’s Victorian Country Press Association media awards. The annual awards were held last Friday, with Star Weekly receiving the awards for Best Sports Story (over 6000 circulation), Best News Photo (over 6000 circulation) and Best Digital Advertisement. Reporter Tara Murray took the award for Best Sports Story for her piece on Molly Jovic’s journey from the City West Falcons to the Suncorp Super Netball competition.

The judge described the story as “simple but engaging”, commending for Murray for her effort to tell the story of a sportsperson “who appears to be something of accidental star”. “Much like the netballer she is writing about, this piece from Tara Murray shows just how much impact you can have when the basics are well executed,” the judge said. Photographer Damjan Janevski won the award for Best News Photo for his image of wheel gymnastics course participants during a summer holiday intensive program in

Werribee in January. The judge said Janevski’s image took top spot in the category due to the obvious effort put into perfectly arranging the subjects before pushing the shutter release. “The photograph immediately captures the readers’ attention due to the very good use of framing.” Wyndham Star Weekly’s advertisement for Federation Village, designed by creative designer John Anastasiou, won the Best Digital Advertisement Award.

“This is a well laid out advertisement,” the judge said. “The main image is engaging and appropriate for the target audience. The messaging is clear, easy to understand, and comprehensive without being cluttered. The price point dropping down is particularly eye catching and encourages click-through.” Overall, the Star News Group picked up six of the 33 gongs at the awards, with the Pakenham Gazette winning Best News Photo (2000 – 6000 circulation), Best News Story (2000-6000) and Best Community Campaign (2000-6000).

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

30 years ago

25 years ago

20 years ago

10 years ago

December 17, 1991

December 17, 1996

December 18, 2001

December 20, 2011

Water restrictions go into effect throughout the Macedon Ranges on January 2, with sprinklers banned except between 7am and 10am.

Next week, the sounds of Christmas will be heard again.

Riddells Creek tree farm owner Graham Hackett got into the spirit of the season for Telegraph photographer Sharon Walker.

With the average Australian family expected to spend more than $500 on festive trimmings, Sarah Harris discover it’s Claus and effect in the very merry retail sector where all the business comes at once.

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

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COMMENT

Translating for healthy results Christopher Carter, North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network For many people, the main frustration involved in making an appointment to see a GP is finding a slot that fits in around all the other commitments in a busy life. It’s easy to forget that for some people accessing our primary healthcare system isn’t as simple. Last year we looked at after-hours medical care in our region and realised that there was something unusual going on. We discovered that in the evenings and on weekends there were quite a lot of people presenting at hospital emergency departments, seeking treatment for ailments and minor injuries that could be more appropriately dealt with by GPs. Now, there will always be people who, understandably enough, become anxious when they feel unwell and so head directly to hospital. This phenomenon, though, did not account for the sheer number of people turning up at emergency departments, at odd times, for comparatively minor matters. Then, looking more closely and consulting with hospital staff, we found that many of these patients shared a particular characteristic – English was not their first language. In response, we asked the Ethnic Communities’ Council of Victoria (ECCV) to look into the matter and funded them to prepare a report. After many months of work, that report was published last week. The ECCV researchers discovered that many people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds were unable to find general practitioners fluent in their own language. Translated written material was also in very short supply. Finding interpreters – especially in less commonly spoken languages – was also

North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network is trialling a new assessment tool to support GPs to become more culturally responsive.

tricky. Even when they could be found, they were often not available at the time of booked appointments, especially after-hours – and sometimes weren’t able to accurately translate medical terms. These issues often led to people not being able to get their heads around the primary healthcare system. Some therefore chose to avoid it because it seemed confusing, and some concluded (wrongly but understandably) that they were not eligible to access it. Others had arrived in Australia from countries with health systems that did not have an equivalent sector. No wonder so many were opting to visit

always-open emergency departments rather than hunt around for a GP with the appropriate language and cultural skills! As a result of this research, we are continuing to work with the ECCV and other bodies to try to improve how general practices greet, treat and support people for whom English is not a first language. There is, obviously, no easy fix. Already, though, North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network is trialling a new assessment tool designed to support GP clinic teams becoming more culturally responsive. We’ve also taken a lead in translating health

(iStock)

messages into various languages and are always advocating for other health and medical bodies to follow suit. There are scores of languages spoken in Melbourne, especially in the northern and western regions. Our dream is for everyone to be able to easily find and access a doctor who can speak directly to them, and to provide them with the care and assistance that those of us fluent in English all too often take for granted. It won’t be simple and it won’t be fast, but I think it will happen. Because this is Melbourne – and Melbourne cares.

Cheetah learns to take check-ups in her stride

It’s rare to see a cheetah – considered Africa’s most endangered big cat – standing calmly in front of a crowd. However, such precious moments are possible at Werribee Open Range Zoo for visitors lucky enough to see cheetah, Kulinda, participating in a routine health check. Zookeepers have been working with nine-year-old Kulinda, encouraging her to walk along the glass viewing wall of her exhibit space and touch her nose to a yellow square that acts as a station and results in a reinforcing food reward. Keepers move the station to greater distances incrementally during training sessions for differing visibility of the popular feline. African River Trail keeper Danielle Ridgway said the trained behaviour helps Kulinda to be an active participant in her own healthcare and allows Werribee Zoo’s vets and keepers to monitor her mobility. “Asking Kulinda to walk from one area to another allows our vets to have a really good look at her body condition and mobility,” Ms Ridgway said. “Ageing cheetah like Kulinda need a little bit of extra monitoring to make sure they stay happy and healthy in their golden years.” Kulinda’s training has taken a lot of time, patience and positive reinforcement to establish. “All our animals have the choice to participate in their training and that gives them control over their environment,” Ms Ridgway said.

Kulinda the cheetah.

(Supplied/Zoos Victoria)

“This ultimately leads to better mental health and overall animal welfare.” International Cheetah Day, on December 4, drew attention to the threats facing cheetah in the wild. As a wideranging carnivore, they are

particularly vulnerable to habitat destruction caused by urbanisation. There are now fewer than 7000 cheetah remaining in the wild. Zoos Victoria members and Werribee Open Range Zoo visitors are reminded that

all tickets must be pre-booked online at zoo. org.au and all ticketholders 12 years and over are required to provide proof of full vaccination and follow current Victorian government directions at www.coronavirus. vic.gov.au.

Tuesday, 14 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

Christmas in Bulla A Christmas function will be held at the Calabria Club in Bulla on December 21. There will be a range of fun-filled activities from 6pm as well as live music. Tickets are $5 per person or free for those under two-years-old. ■ 0499 922 061 This week’s photographer’s choice photograph is of Flynn, 9, and Amelia, 6, at the Melbourne Airport viewing area.

Storytime with Santa Santa will visit the Sunbury Library to read a Christmas story on Monday, December 22, from 10am. This is a free event where children can take photos with Santa and make Christmas craft to take home. ■ 9356 6900

(Damjan Janevski) 260894_01

Rotary club The Sunbury Rotary Club meets every Tuesday at the Sunbury Bowling Club at 7pm. ■ sunburyrotary@gmail.com

Symbiosis exhibition 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

Live music in Macedon 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

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

Toastmasters 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

Football

Sewing group

Female cricket

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, from 12.30-3.30pm.

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

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 subsidised. If you’re over 55 years of age and would like to meet new people, come along. ■ Frank, 0423 392 884

Probus 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

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

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

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

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

Volunteers needed

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

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 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

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 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

AL-ANON meets

Singing group

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.

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

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

Love Our Street 3029 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

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

Dads’ playgroup

BinGO MOVE

Diabetes support group

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

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

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

Musicians welcome

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

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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12477071-CG03-21

FEBRUARY 9, 2021 \ STARWEEKLY.COM

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EVERY WEEK

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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Talk to your GP about this simp le test to determine your risk of cardiova scular disease.

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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, 14 December, 2021 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 15

PUZZLES No. 059

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

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

5 8 4 6 1

7 2 9

5 3 1 2

2 7 3

Beverage powder (5) Moth or butterfly pupa (9) Island off the coast of Victoria (7) Musically poetical (7) In a state of disorder (7) Student (7) Thus (9) Black (4) Sulk (4) Male athlete (9) Having sharp corners (7) Grandmother (colloq.) (7) Nutty (7) Libyan capital (7) Arranged (9) Japanese comics (5)

10 11 12 13 15 17 19 22 25 26 27 28 29

No. 059

Designated amount (9) Roomy (9) Noblemen (5) Comedian, — Silverman (5) Relating to the surrounding area (7) Pay (6) Extended (9) Social exclusion (9) Actress, — Jolie (8) Continuing (7) Rainy season storm (7) Gambling house (6) A language (5) Frameworks holding goods (5)

3 4 5 6 7

ACROSS 1 4 9

8 14 15 16 18 20 21 23 24

DOWN Maximum limit on containment (9) Prevailing weather (7)

1 2

medium

QUICK CROSSWORD

DECODER

No. 059

1 3 9

2 7 4 6 3 3 9 2 7 8 1 8 3 4 7 1 7 4 6 2 3 1 hard

6 3

8 9 2

9 6

10 11 12 13

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

P 23

3 5 2 7 9 1 8 6 4

1 4 5 7 6 8 2 9 3

9 6 7 1 3 2 5 4 8

3 8 2 4 9 5 1 6 7

4 9 1 8 2 3 6 7 5

Today’s Aim: 9 words: Good 13 words: Very good

G A

3 LETTERS ACT AID ASH ATE CAM EAT EEL FLU HAG ICE ILL INS LAB LED LOP LSD NAB NEE NUN PEA RED RIP RUT TEA TNT TOT

STYE TIDE TIES 5 LETTERS ABBOT ABYSS AGILE ALIBI APART ASSET BANKS BARER CROCS CROSS ENEMA EPICS ERECT ESSAY HARSH IDEAL

4 LETTERS ALAS BAIT BASS CLOD EATS EGOS FEDS ICED INTO PADS RASP RING RIPE ROAM SHOE

No. 059

SOLID STARE STARS TAMES THEME TRUES VIOLA

LEERY LISPS LIVEN LOOTS MACHO OBESE OPERA OUNCE PALER PAVED RASPS RECAP RIVAL SAGER SENDS SLEDS SLEET SLIDE SLOBS SMILE SNACK

6 LETTERS AMOEBA TREBLE 7 LETTERS ENTHRAL OVERATE

RECEIVE SEDATES TRELLIS TUMULTS 8 LETTERS ABNORMAL CHARISMA SERENEST TREASURE 10 LETTERS BRIGHTNESS EMISSARIES

aching, acing, align, baling, bang, BLANCHING, cabling, caning, clang, cling, gain, glib, haling, hang, lacing, lancing, lang, nigh 17-12-21

No. 059 Insert the missing letters to make 10 words – five reading across the grid and five reading down.

QUICK QUIZ

What is the national animal emblem of France?

In what year was Ruth Bader Ginsburg nominated as an associate judge of the US Supreme Court?

E N T

C A R E

L O A T A R L Y N G E R

F E A

2 5 3 6 7 9 4 8 1

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

R S

7 3 4 9 1 6 8 5 2

8 2 6 3 5 7 9 1 4

4 8 1 2 5 6 7 9 3

9 6 7 3 4 8 5 1 2

5 7 4 6 1 9 3 2 8

2 9 3 8 7 5 6 4 1

8 1 6 4 3 2 9 5 7

1 2 9 5 8 3 4 7 6

7 3 5 1 6 4 2 8 9

6 4 8 9 2 7 1 3 5

6 3 1 4 7 5 2 9 8

3 5 9 6 8 1 4 7 2

7 4 8 3 5 2 9 6 1

1 6 2 9 4 7 5 8 3

8 2 3 5 1 9 7 4 6

9 1 4 7 2 6 8 3 5

5 7 6 8 3 4 1 2 9

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

The Meredith Corporation currently owns which social networking site?

What is the name of the upcoming open-world Harry Potter game? Caius Marcius and Tullus Aufidius are characters from which Shakespearean tragedy?

Timothée Chalamet (pictured) plays the lead role in which 2021 sci-fi film?

This year, Wongutha-Yamatji artist Meyne Wyatt became the first Indigenous artist to do what?

10 Which Australian sporting team’s away kit will not be available in women’s sizes?

Is the GeForce RTX 3080 a car, graphics card or camera?

Which UK reality show created its own "Covid bubble” to ensure filming complied with pandemic restrictions?

NOTE: more than one solution may be possible

6 7 8 5 4 1 3 2 9

4 8 5 2 9 3 6 1 7

G N

T L

O A

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”.

Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

9-LETTER WORD

18 words: Excellent

hard

medium

easy

4 6

9 4 8

4 1 2

B I Z K A VMC G F D J T

7 5

S X NWH L Y U E OQ P R

5x5

8 5 2

WORDFIT

ANSWERS: 1. The Gallic Rooster 2. 1993 3. Dune 4. Win an Archibald Prize 5. Graphics card 6. The Great British Bake-Off 7. Myspace 8. Hogwarts Legacy 9. Coriolanus 10. The Matildas

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Tuesday, 14 December, 2021 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 17

MOTOR STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Everest works on the big things By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring Everest, the highest mountain on earth, is subject to constant change at the hands of the forces of nature. Similarly, the eponymous Ford sports utility vehicle has had several updates since its introduction to Australia in 2016. Everything about the sports utility vehicle – radiator grille, rear end, guards and wheels, even badging - was designed to make the SUV appear as big as possible. At close to five metres long, more than two metres wide and almost two metres tall, the dimensions also made for a spacious and versatile cabin capable of carrying up to seven occupants and gear in relative comfort. The seven-seat 4WD wagon came in three variants - Ambiente, Trend and Titanium – priced from $54,990, plus on-road costs, topping out with the Titanium at $22,000 later. The mid-range Trend cost $60,990. The MY19 upgrade took on a new-generation powertrain, which included a bi-turbo, four-cylinder diesel engine, mated with a 10-speed automatic transmission; and a raft of the latest safety systems and convenience features, as well as a five-year unlimited kilometre warranty and further service benefits. The Trend bi-turbo enjoyed only a small rise in pricing over the preceding single-turbo model. Now, in front of a completely redesign for 2022, the Everest, sports a new grille and premium technology, with the Trend 2.0-litre four-wheel drive, on test, leading the way at $62,390, plus on-roads.

Styling Ford Everest’s rugged appearance have all variants holding ground with any rival. The Trend scores features such as 18-inch alloy wheels and running boards, while the square shaped rear of many traditional SUVs is replaced by Everest’s sculpted tail lamps, with integrated LED lighting. Trend is further switched on with HID headlamps with auto levelling function, LED day-time running lights, plus hands-free power lift tailgate.

Interior The cabin is a genuine seven-seater. Flexible second-row seats have 60 / 40 split, and power-fold third-row seats with 50 / 50 split, can be folded flat, providing 2010 litres of versatile cargo space with a class-leading payload of up to 750 kg. Joining the features for Trend are leather accented seat trim (third-row occupants miss out), leather trimmed gear lever and eight-way power driver’s seat with manual lumbar support. Boot space in the seven-seater is a claimed 249 litres with all seats up and in use; 876 litres with the third-row seats down; and 1796 litres with the second row down.

Infotainment Standard Trend features include Ford’s SYNC 3 multimedia system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, an 8.0-inch full-colour

touchscreen and 10-speaker audio system, The high resolution 8-inch colour touchscreen in the Interior Command Centre is one of the easiest on the market to view and operate. The up-to-date design of the instrumentation cluster, which incorporates dual 4-inch colour screens, is a competent companion. An AM/FM/CD audio system with DAB+ digital and 10 speakers is augmented by AUX/ iPod/ USB/SD card input ports. Voice control works with simple commands for many vehicle and convenience systems and emergency assistance connects drivers with emergency responders in a serious collision.

Engines / transmissions The bi-turbo diesel engine in the Everest Trend is puts out maximum power of 157 kW at 3750 rpm and top torque of 500 Nm between 1750 and 2500 revolutions. The package adds a ten-speed automatic transmission and has the option of rear or four-wheel drive.

Safety With a five-star safety rating the Trend pre-collision assist and pedestrian detection with the autonomous emergency braking system and traffic sign recognition. There are seven airbags, including driver’s knee airbag. Dynamic stability control with roll stability control, ABS anti-skid brakes with electronic brake force distribution, traction control and emergency brake assist are constantly active when on the move. Parking is made easy with the use of a rear-view camera, plus audible sensors front and rear.

Driving The bi-turbo diesel motor, which pumps out 157 kW of power and a fat 500 Nm of torque (10 kW and 30 Nm more than its predecessor), pushing the big SUV to new heights. Overtaking on the highway, for example, is only a matter of easing the accelerator pedal forward and the power needed is presented smoothly, making the sometimes ticklish manoeuvre a breeze. Gone is the fiddly old-style ignition key; replaced by push-button engine start / stop and new gear shifter. Fuel consumption topped 12 litres per 100 kilometres in mixed traffic conditions and 6.5 litres per 100 kilometres on the open road. Unique five-spoke 18-inch alloy wheels and sleek side panels emphasise on-road character, while generous ground clearance (225 mm) and 800 mm wading depth get the Everest ready for anything off the bitumen. Shortcomings - short being the operative word – rest with the rear seats, the third row, when in use, offers little head room for an adult making more than short journeys a chore. Getting in and out is quite a step up too. However, occupants have the advantage of dual zone climate control and more than 30 stowage spots totalling 48 litres (the glovebox can take a 16-inch laptop), while sound insulating materials and active noise cancellation technology make for a quiet cabin.

AT A GLANCE MODEL LINE-UP Ambiente 3.2 RWD: $50,090 Ambiente 3.2 4WD: $55,090 Trend 2.0 RWD: $57,090 Trend 3.2 4WD: $60,890 Trend 2.0 4WD: $62,390 BaseCamp 3.2 4WD: $63,090 BaseCamp 2.0 4WD: $64,590 Sport 2.0 RWD: $60,090 Sport 3.2 4WD: $62,890 Sport 2.0 4WD: $64,390 Titanium 2.0 4WD: $73,190

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

Summary Despite no longer being an Australian vehicle manufacturer, Ford maintains a large cohort of designers and engineers Downunder This goes a long way to giving Aussies what they

want in the Everest range, a fact destined to be emphasised with the release of an all-new model next year.

The Ford Everest is big on features inside and out. (Pictures: Supplied)

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

Kangaroos face a series of testing blockbusters The Sunbury Kangaroos will line up in some big early season contests in division one of the Essendon District Football League next year. The release of the EDFL’s 2022 season fixture earlier this month has confirmed that the Kangaroos will travel to Hillside to play the Sharks on Good Friday in round two of the season. That contest will be followed by another major clash in round three, when the Kangaroos will host rivals Rupertswood at Eric Boardman Reserve on the weekend before Anzac Day. Kangaroos coach Leigh Sporle said his side was looking forward to running out in front of a big crowd once again, after two seasons that were majorly impacted by COVID-19 restrictions. “Good old Rupo, it’s a shame we didn’t get to play them in the night match [last season] because it didn’t go ahead … we’re definitely looking forward to playing them again,” he said. “Last year it was really hard to try to organise events and functions, hopefully this

year we don’t have that again.” The Kangaroos battled through a shortened 2021 campaign with a young list of players, finishing the season with three wins and eight losses. Sporle’s side were able to drag themselves across the line in their Anzac Day eve match against Rupo, managing to hold off their cross town rivals by three points. Rupo finished the season in ninth spot, one game behind the Kangaroos. Sporle said he was encouraged by the effort of his team in 2021 despite finishing in the bottom half of the ladder. “You look at the win-loss on paper and it doesn’t look great, but there were only two games where we probably got beaten pretty convincingly, the other games we were right in the game,” he said. “I think one game we had a look at the team and we had 16 players with under 30 games [experience], there wouldn’t be too many clubs doing that.”

Sporle said the club had been busy during the offseason, confirming the return of some of his reliable veterans along with a string of new faces. Former Gold Coast Suns academy player Fitzroy Greenwool has committed to the club for 2022 and will split his time between Sunbury and his commitments with Sandringham in the VFL. The Kangaroos have also been bolstered by the signing of small forward Bradwell Dick, who after playing in the Northern Territory and Queensland for most of his senior football, moved down to Melbourne to join the Northern Saints in 2019. Former Kangaroos premiership players Tierone Cuffe and Matthew Welsh will also run out for Sunbury in 2022. Sunbury will kick off its campaign 2022 on Saturday, April 2, with an away fixture against Tullamarine. Oliver Lees

Former premiership player Tierone Cuffe joins a host of new signings for the Kangaroos over the offseason. (Shawn Smits) 261607

BMX champs back on track

Andrew Breeden-Walton and bowls director Marc Bullows with the club’s Bowls Australia Club of the Year award.

(Damjan Janevski) 260541_01

Bowled over by award By Oliver Lees In 2018, Club Sunbury embarked on a six-and-a-half-year plan to upgrade its facilities and programs to a world class standard. “A few years ago some of the board’s directors travelled to Queensland and they saw a couple of greens that had roofs over the top of them,” Club Sunbury general manager Andrew Breeden-Walton said. “They saw the upside of people there enjoying their bowls, and so we thought we could do this in Victoria, at Club Sunbury.” Three years on, the club’s vision has been validated. At a virtual ceremony held last week, Club Sunbury was announced as the Club of the Year at Bowls Australia’s annual awards night. Speaking at the ceremony, Bowls Australia chief executive Neil Dalrymple said the accolade was a fitting reward for a club that has worked hard to promote the sport. “They’ve been an amazing club in terms of what they’ve achieved in a relatively short period of time,” he said. “I think it all comes back to good governance, and they’ve got a vision for the club in the future. “What they’ve done with their facilities in

general is extraordinary, it’s a great palace to visit.” Those facilities include a new roofed bowling green, which marked the completion of the first stage of the club’s masterplan. The club also intends to upgrade its bistro, gaming and social areas by 2024. As the club’s general manager since 2016, Mr Breeden-Walton has seen firsthand how the club has improved its community engagement. In the past three years the club has grown its base of social members from 700 to nearly 3000, while also doubling its number of bowling members. Mr Breeden-Walton said part of the strategy was to encourage more kids to get on the green. “We’ve got junior supporter packages which come with a cap, a shirt and a bag,” he said. “There’s also seven or eight primary and secondary schools that we work with, some are close enough to walk to. “They come and we teach them how to bowl. We’ve even had Schools Sports Victoria hold their state champions here for lawn bowls.” Club Sunbury has also created a Bowling with Babies program, where mothers can have a game and bring their kids. Other initiatives include the Jr. Jack Attack

bowls program and Rock n Bowl, all of which are designed to get more people into the sport. Club Sunbury is also set to showcase its talents to a national audience, when it’s team features in Australia’s premier lawn bowls event next year. Under the banner of Melbourne Extreme, Club Sunbury will field a star-studded triples side in the Bowls Premier League (BPL). The competition was supposed to kick off in August but was delayed due to COVID-19 restrictions. The BPL format is much faster than a typical bowls contest, with a 30-second shot clock to keep the game moving along and the audience engaged. Mr Breeden-Walton said he was looking forward to everything the club has to come in the future. “From my perspective, the support the club has received from staff and members is second to none, we couldn’t achieve an award like this without the staff, community and member support,” he said. “It’s a club award [and] there’s hundreds of people celebrating it. I am here at the moment as the general manager, but I am just a custodian. Everyone else, they make up the fabric of the club.”

The Sunbury BMX Club was well represented in the top finishers at the Victoria BMX State Championships held in Shepparton late last month. The club had 14 riders finish in the top eight of their respective age groups, ranging from the 10-year-old boy’s category to the 40-44 men’s cruisers. After having limited opportunity to get out on the track this past year, Sunbury BMX Club president Shawn Hindmarsh said it was great to spend the weekend watching Sunbury’s best race against fierce competition. “It was a great weekend away, really good to see the kids getting back into it all,” Hindmarsh said. “It was a good family weekend away. A lot of us went and stayed in the same caravan park and practised together. We were really impressed, a lot of kids haven’t been on bikes for a long time. “Loads of smiles and laughter, late nights, early rises and of course great racing.” Sunbury BMX Club had three winners in their respective fields. Ava Fenton won in the under-15s girl’s division, Corey Stzama in the 25-29 male age group and Rob Slatter in the 40-44 men’s cruisers. Slatter, the most experienced of the club’s 25 participants, has competed in more than 30 State Championships. “It was definitely better than we’ve had in the past few years, probably the best we’ve had in ages,” Hindmarsh said. The club will also have two representatives competing in the National BMX Championships in Queensland next weekend. Both Damon Hocking and Joshua McDermott will make the trip to Nerang. McDermott came in eighth place at the State Championships and has previously competed in the World Titles in the United States. Oliver Lees

Tuesday, 14 December, 2021 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 19

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