Star Weekly - Sunbury Macedon Ranges - 1st February 2022 by Star Weekly

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Congratulations Class of 2021

kilmore.vic.edu.au

33%

A perfect IB score of 45 achieved

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achieved an ATAR of 99+

56%

22%

achieved an ATAR of 90+

achieved a score of IB 40+

40 perfect study scores

Thank you to our dedicated teachers for all their guidance and support 2W SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 1 February, 2022

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As an International Baccalaureate World School for students in Year 3 to Year 12, we seek to form young women and men who have a true understanding of themselves, their strengths, their weaknesses, their values, and their view of the world. Our students choose to embrace an ever-changing world with confidence, engage others with a positive, loving attitude, and are prepared to act when needed.

“As a parent, you want to ensure your child feels a sense of belonging, that they are seen, heard, and valued by their teachers and connected to their peers.”

A good school has certain key characteristics that are readily recognisable. A good school cares for the individual, practices diversity, offers experiences for growth, is grounded in community, values the learning process, has teachers that are respectful and respected, and, importantly, places the needs of the child at the centre of its decision making. A great school, such as The Kilmore International School, has these characteristics embedded in its culture and daily practice. Such an ambitious environment takes commitment and teamwork, and our students are joined in their journey by highly qualified, experienced and inspirational teachers, teachers who understand that a child will not care about how much they know, until they know how much they care.

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What can you expect from The Kilmore International School? By choosing The Kilmore international School, a non-denominational, co-educational day and boarding school - you are providing your child with a world class education and giving them the building blocks for a lifetime of learning, preparing them for the world ahead. The key is to develop a love of learning, provide community service opportunities and facilitate co-curricular activities including the Duke of Edinburgh. The Kilmore International School takes pride in its diverse community of learners while also allowing for intimate classroom settings. Our highly experienced teachers can offer personalised attention and cultivate each students’ talents and interests. Prepare your child to become World Ready Future Ready.

The heart of a Kilmore International School education is expressed in our motto, Excellentia Academica Persequenda, in pursuit of academic excellence. Our graduates attend leading universities throughout the world, taking with them a joy of learning and a willingness to make a positive difference to the lives of others.

A world class education starts here

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Contact Admissions for more details admissions@kilmore.vic.edu.au

Scholarship Opportunity 19 February 2022 kilmore.vic.edu.au/scholarships

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Dons touch down in Macedon Macedon Ranges Essendon fans were treated to an afternoon watching their stars last week. Those brave enough to bear the heat caught the Dons in action at the foot of Mt Macedon as part of the club’s two-day training camp in the region. Despite a number of key players such as Darcy Parish, Andy McGrath and Zach Merrett absent from the team trip, those in attendance would have been glad to see fan favourites Jake Stringer and Stephen Coniglio strut their stuff. The Bombers will be hoping to improve on last season after losing the first round of the finals against the Western Bulldogs. The 2022 season will begin on March 16.

(Essendon Football Club)

Runway plan is revealed By Oliver Lees Melbourne Airport has revealed its plans for its third runway, following the release of key documents that will guide the process. On Monday, the airport released its draft Master Plan and preliminary Major Development Plan for the runway, which will aim to increase capacity at the state’s largest airport. The planning documents detail the vision of a north-south orientated runway that is 3000-metres long, with an estimated

completion date by the end of the decade. The draft Master Plan indicates that the runway will be located approximately 1.3 kilometres west of the existing north-south runway. The airport is inviting feedback from the community on the planning documents from February 5 and will host in-person community forums in surrounding areas. Project construction cannot begin until the plan has been approved by the federal Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Minister Barnaby Joyce.

Melbourne Airport chief executive Lyell Strambi said he was excited to share this first step in the runway’s development, which he said was crucial to meet the growing number of travellers. “Our existing two-runway configuration was nearing capacity before the onset of the pandemic, and prior to COVID-19, airlines and their customers frequently experienced delays in peak periods due to the airport’s congested cross-runway system,” he said. “We are giving as much detail as possible so people can really understand what is going on

and [people can] give informed comments. “You have to come back to the basics: why do you expand airports? It really comes back to the economic benefit it delivers for the state, the jobs it creates.” Mr Stambi said airport data suggests that about 37,000 jobs will be created through the construction and operation of the runway by 2046. “Melbourne Airport is already a major local employment hub, and we expect most of the new jobs will be filled by people living in nearby suburbs,” he said. ■ Continued page 4

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Specials available Wednesday 02/02/22 until Tuesday 08/02/22 only. Pictures used for illustration purposes only. Retail quantities only. No trade supplied. Prices may vary in some country areas due to freight. All prices include GST where applicable. Some products or varieties not available at all stores. Available at participating Xpress Stores. Saves based on Melbourne metropolitan regular prices. In some stores, some regular prices have been reduced to ensure you receive the lowest competitive price. Therefore the savings shown may differ from the saving shown in your store. IGA Liquor supports the responsible service of alcohol. Tobacco and alcohol not sold to under 18’s. Products only available in IGA Victoria stores. We reserve the right to correct printing errors. TRADE NOT SUPPLIED

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Hume greets new residents

Kaye Le Vannais and Nigel Gould.

(Damjan Janevski) 265147

Artist captures the man By Oliver Lees In a studio in Mt Macedon, portrait artist Kaye Le Vannais has been working to depict mental health advocate Nigel Gould, in what will be her second entry into the prestigious Archibald Prize. But the task is not as straightforward as simply painting Mr Gould’s likeness, as Ms Le Vannais explains, part of the challenge of portraiture is creating reference to the subject’s character and life experience. And for someone like Nigel Gould, that is no easy feat. “When he asked me to do this painting, I was a bit hesitant,” she said. “I thought, how am I going to portray all of this?” A long time Mining and Energy Union

member, Mr Gould has been a vocal advocate for mental health within the sector and has worked in mines in Western Australia. His heavy involvement in the union pushed him to run for the federal seat of Mitchell as a Labor candidate in 2010. Mr Gould said he had the idea for the portrait to help raise funds for the organisations such as the Royal Flying Doctors Service, the Black Dog Institute and R U OK?. “My motto is: it’s OK not to be OK, but it’s also OK to get help,” he said. “I guess the point is that I’m just an old truck driver. If this old boy can do it, anyone can do it.” With just some final touches left to go before the portrait is complete, Le Vannais said she’s gotten into the swing of the project,

and has come to enjoy the task of representing Nigel Gould on canvas. “As I got going, things just started to unfold,” she said. “I’ve gotten all excited about it and can see it all falling into place.” Once completed, Mr Gould will personally drive the portrait to Sydney for it to be judged. He said win or lose, he hopes to tour the painting around the country to raise money for mental health awareness. “It’s been very enjoyable, Kaye’s putting a story in there, and once they see it, I think they’re going to be amazed,” he said. “I’ve been blessed to live this incredible life.” The portrait can also be voted for in the People’s Choice category. Details: https://www.artgallery.nsw.gov.au/ prizes/archibald/2021/

Hume council has welcomed 89 new citizens to the municipality following a citizenship ceremony held on Australia Day last week. The 89 new residents hold citizenship in a total of 17 other countries, including Syria, Vietnam, Somalia and New Zealand. Hume mayor Carly Moore said that all new citizens were encouraged to continue to champion their cultural heritage as they integrate into the municipality. “In Hume, we embrace the many languages and cultures that combine to form our community and it is always a privilege to welcome new Australian citizens at our citizenship ceremonies,” Cr Moore said. “We are all lucky to live in this great country, and to be a part of the story of Australia. “[But] we acknowledge that January 26 is not a day of celebration for all people in our community.” Wurundjeri Woi-Wurrung elder Aunty Georgina opened the ceremony with a welcome to country in what was a different Australia Day at Hume. Historically Hume council has held awards for its residents along with its annual citizenship ceremony at the same event on January 26. But at a meeting held in December 2021, Hume council resolved to shift its resident awards ceremony to be held at a separate event instead of Australia Day.

Runway plan revealed From page 1 The additional runway will also see changes made to regular flight paths, which could see greater noise pollution for residents of Sunbury, Bulla and the Macedon Ranges. As part of the consultation process, the airport has designed an interactive noise tool that allows the community to explore future aircraft tracks, different operating modes and time of day comparisons from their location. Information leaflets will be distributed to a million homes in surrounding council areas. A Melbourne Airport spokesperson also confirmed that the north of Sunbury Road will be used as a route for airport construction activities. “The main impact on traffic will be the

movement of additional trucks travelling to and from the site,” the spokesperson said. “As the truck traffic is spread across multiple access routes over a period of some time, the additional trucks represent only a small increase in the current volumes on the road network.” Traffic will be spread between the Calder Freeway and the M80 Ring Road via interchange ramps. The airport intends to limit its contribution to surrounding traffic flows by sourcing the major of its fill on-site. Community consultation will continue until May 16. Details: www.melbourneairport.com.au/ runway

The proposed layout of Melbourne Airport’s third runway. (Supplied)

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Concern over rock master plan By Oliver Lees The Macedon Ranges Residents Association (MRRA) has criticised the touristic focus and lack of community engagement detailed in the Hanging Rock Master Plan, which outlines the vision of the precinct for the next 50 years. The Hanging Rock Master Plan was released in January by the state government following a period of community consultation. The master plan outline describes the inclusion of Aboriginal cultural heritage, preservation of landscape and environment and tourism experiences among the key values of the document.

Although overall supportive of these key tenets, MRRA secretary Christine Pruneau said she was concerned with vagueness of parts of the plan that relate to the tourism component, and that they might dominate aspects of community interest. “They’re turning Hanging Rock into an events venue, rather than a nature destination,” Ms Pruneau said. “There’s not enough acknowledgement or involvement of local people, even though local people have such a strong sense of ownership over it. “Intentions must be made crystal clear, non-passive activities defined and limited,

and the local community included as a stakeholder in all things Hanging Rock.” Within the proposed changes section of the master plan, the Hanging Rock Cricket Club oval, as well as the facilities for the Hanging Rock Tennis Club and the Hanging Rock Petanque Club are to be removed. Star Weekly reported in January that representatives from both the petanque club and the cricket club planned on contesting their exclusion. Ms Pruneau questioned the conflicting intentions to restrict visitor numbers in nature-based environments while also planning to invite more patrons into the

planned event spaces. As for the sporting clubs, she felt their future in the precinct was likely “doomed”. “Seems the Rock precinct has to make a profit, but how it will do that is poorly defined and lacks limits,” she said. “So much for conservation of post-contact heritage and supporting the local community,” she said. Consultation on the plan will remain open until Monday, February 28. Details: www.engage.vic.gov.au/hangingrock-master-plan

A jab with a difference An enchanted forest, virtual reality and goodies bag — the Central Highlands Rural Health vaccination clinic is doing everything it can to make children feel safe when getting the jab. The clinic at Kyneton Health has joined the nationwide effort to vaccinate children between the ages of five and 11 against COVID-19. The health centre is now taking bookings for children to receive the Pfizer vaccine, which is recommended for the age group. Children will receive a smaller dose than adults in line with federal government guidelines on vaccinating children. To ease the stress around facing the needle, Kyneton Health will be providing immersive virtual reality experiences for youngsters who book in. Children can also enjoy the centre’s forest theme, which has seen the medical space transformed into an animal kingdom.

Central Highland Rural Health clinical services director Susan Jennings said assisting families through its ‘Get the Jab Done’ campaign, which has been encouraging the community to trust the health advice surrounding vaccinations. “We’re really pleased to invite families into our clinic so that children aged 5-11 years can receive their COVID-19 vaccinations,” Ms Jennings said. “This is an important step in reducing the spread of COVID-19, protecting children from getting sick with COVID-19 and keeping schools open.” Bookings can be made via the Kyneton Health website or over the phone. Details: 1800 675 398 Oliver Lees

Executive director of clinical services Susan Jennings (left) and executive director of community operations (right) with Ivy and Lewis. (Supplied)

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Joaquin Tedesco had a ball at this year’s Australian Open. The 13-year-old was selected as one of 360 ballkids applicants to head into Melbourne Park to play a crucial on-court role in the tournament. The paid opportunity is open to children aged 12 to 15, with the possibility of setting foot in Rod Laver Arena. Through a series of training sessions ballkids are taught correct court position, how to appropriately service the players, as well as clear communication strategies with other ballkids. As a member of the South Gisborne Tennis Club, Joaquin said he was ecstatic to be

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within touching distance of the stars of the game. “Because I play tennis a lot, I figured I kind of wanted to do what those kids are doing on the TV, so I just applied,” he said. “It’s a really good experience, being with the most famous players and being able to enjoy a moment not everyone else can.” Of the 128 players that have qualified for the Grand Slam, Joaquin hoped he would be allocated on to the same court as Australian Open champion Rafael Nadal. Oliver Lees

The Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) is looking for public feedback following the release of its draft guidance for managing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. When finalised, the document will be a ‘how to’ for Victorian businesses – providing practical advice, examples and case studies so they can understand greenhouse gas emissions and take reasonable actions to meet responsibilities. While the state government works to reduce greenhouse gas emissions at the state level, this document is designed to equip individual businesses to make a measurable difference at the factory, shop or office. Public consultation is open until 5pm Tuesday, February 8.

Number plate scanning Victoria Police has established new technology that will allow them to scan for unlicensed drivers. The automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) equipment will be attached to more than 200 police vehicles later this month.

Hume arts grants Hume council’s Arts Grants Program is now accepting applications. The grant scheme will see $50,000 of council money to go toward artistic projects across the municipality. FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Sunbury & Macedon Ranges Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

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6 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 1 February, 2022

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Council seeks claim on Games By Oliver Lees Calls to get on with the job of building the Macedon Ranges Regional Sports Precinct have been renewed as Victoria looms as a host for the 2026 Commonwealth Games, with the state government considering a focus on bringing the event to regional areas. Last week it emerged that the state government was considering bidding on the 2026 Commonwealth Games. The final decision on a host venue has been delayed due to the event planning complications that have arisen throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

Although not explicitly confirming the state’s interest, Premier Daniel Andrews said his government was exploring the option. “What you can all be certain of, and what I think Victorians know, is that the government and Visit Victoria, we’re out there every day working as hard as we can to get all the big major events to come to the major events capital of our nation,” he said. With speculation mounting that the government would look regional when hosting the event, Macedon Ranges council has articulated its interest in participating. Macedon Ranges council chief executive Bernie O’Sullivan told Star Weekly that he

would like to see the shire included in the state government’s plans for the games. “We would encourage the state government to consider rural and regional Victoria, in particular, Central Victoria, as a group of locations and shires that could work together, play to their strengths and host significant elements of the 2026 Commonwealth Games,” Mr O’Sullivan said. “That said, significant government investment would be required in regional Victoria to make this a reality and successful.” For years, The Macedon Ranges sporting community has been pleading to state and federal levels of government to fund the

long-awaited Macedon Ranges Regional Sports Precinct (MRRSP). A need for additional sports facilities in the area was first identified during the Macedon Ranges council’s leisure strategy and indoor sports courts feasibility study, which took place from 2006 to 2009. Stage one of the precinct plan, which includes three basketball courts, a turf oval and a sports pavilion, has been fully funded as a joint effort from Macedon Ranges council and the state government, but stage two is still without requisite funding.

Ecouraging edgy veg A first-of-its-kind competition has been designed to encourage venues across the shire to provide meat-free options. The inaugural Edgy Veg Awards has been organised by the Macedon Ranges Sustainability Group’s (MRSG) Veg Action team, and will run as part of the Macedon Ranges Autumn Festival. Cafes and pubs across the Macedon Ranges can enter 100 per cent plant-based and vegan friendly dishes, with entrants going into the draw to win a weekend away. As well as having a singular winning dish, all entries will feature on the Edgy Veg Trail map, which residents and visitor can use to find the best vegetable fare around. MRSG Veg Action team member Lucy Campbell said she hoped that pubs and cafes would embrace the opportunity. “As it grows, we hope to run it again to see if it’s popular, then we can get the other cafes on

board down the track when they can see that it is a growing market,” Ms Campbell said. “And hopefully the trail will encourage people to try cafes they haven’t tried before.” Ms Campbell said as well as being nutritious and better for the environment, a plant-based diet can also be more cost effective than meat dishes. “This is the perfect opportunity to try, because you have an experienced chef creating a delicious plant-based dish for you,” she said. “I would challenge them to find fault with it, there’s so many good vegan dishes out there.” The Edgy Veg Trail maps will available for pick up at any Macedon Ranges tourist information centre. Details: https://veg.mrsg.org.au/ edgy-veg-awards Oliver Lees

Macedon Ranges Sustainability Group members Annelies Norland, Lucy Campbell and Claire Rowland at Home Grown on Piper cafe in Kyneton. (Damjan Janevski)

We’re building big near you and there will be transport disruptions As part of Victoria’s Big Build, we’re upgrading the Sunbury Line, allowing bigger, more modern trains to run on the line. We’re also adding new lanes to the M80 to get you home safer and sooner. Train disruptions: Buses replace trains in both directions Sunbury Line

8.45pm to last train each night, 15 to 17 Feb 8.30pm to last train each night, 28 Feb to 2 Mar

North Melbourne to Sunshine

12.45am 19 Feb to last train 20 Feb 8.30pm 21 Feb to 8.30pm 23 Feb First train to 8.30pm, 24 Feb

Sunshine to Sunbury

8.30pm to last train, 23 Feb 8.30pm 24 Feb to last train 27 Feb

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Tuesday, 1 February, 2022 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 7

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Leading by example

Gill Metz, Australian Fire Service Medal recipient at the Australia Day awards. (Damjan Janevski)

Blazing her way By Oliver Lees With 21 years of experience and more than 1250 incident responses under her belt, Gill Metz has been recognised for her trailblazing achievements within the Country Fire Authority (CFA). Ms Getz was awarded the Australian Fire Service Medal as part of the Australia Day Honours, for her efforts to champion diversity and providing leadership as a member of the Riddells Creek Fire Brigade. After starting out in the Hillside CFA in 2001, still unsure if a life in the service was for her, Ms Getz quickly became enamoured with the environment. “I thought I could go down and help out, but when I volunteered I didn’t expect I’d get on a truck or be a firefighter,” she said. “But I did, and I felt it was something that was interesting, and so it became a career.” She has since been deployed to respond

to a number of crucial incidents, such as the Sydney Christmas Day fires, the Black Saturday bushfires and the Northeast campaign fires. As she moved through different positions within the CFA north-west region, to the point of becoming the first woman to hold a regional manager position in the CFA, she wanted to do her bit to create a more efficient and inclusive organisational structure. “What I first saw … was a fairly one dimensional organisation with a biased traditional view of firefighters and an organisation that struggled to adequately reflect the changing communities,” Ms Getz said. “Increased diversity is the key to an efficient and effective organisation.” Ms Getz said she was proud that the Riddells Creek Fire Brigade has grown into a place with a diverse leadership group that has strengthened its capability to support the community and surrounding areas.

Twelve years on from his first shift as a volunteer at the SES Sunbury Unit, Anthony White has created a legacy of commitment and inclusion. Mr White was awarded the Emergency Services Medal as part of the Australia Day Honours, recognising his years of leadership in the community. Reflecting on his journey within the service, Mr White told the Star Weekly he started out with a humble objective, but soon found himself pushing for greater responsibility. “I joined mainly because my family was about to become drivers on the road, and I would never expect anyone to save my kids if I wasn’t willing to save my own,” Mr White said. “There was also the wanting to be able to meet people, not having grown up here in Sunbury.” Now serving as the unit’s controller, Mr White has led his peers for the past nine years.

Mr White said he has seen membership numbers grow from around 30 people when he first started, to more than 80 today. He explained that boosting female participation was a particular focus as he planned for the future. Of those 85 members, Mr White is particularly proud that his wife and three children have all joined the service. “They all love it, I’ve never had a situation where I’ve forced them,” he said. Mr White said events such as the fires of January 2020, when Sunbury Unit members contributed more than 250 days of deployment in the Gisborne area, demonstrated how important collaboration is for anyone building a career in the emergency services. “I could not have done it without the support from the many other controllers and people in the service, who have been there for everything we’ve been able to do,” he said. Oliver Lees

SES Sunbury Unit controller Anthony White. (Damjan Janevski)

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

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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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8 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 1 February, 2022

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NEWS

Top Ranges citizens honoured The Kyneton Town Hall was adorned with flags and excitement on Wednesday, January 26, as Macedon Ranges council hosted its Australia Day citizenship and awards ceremony. Although organised with a limited attendance to align with COVID-19 health and safety protocol, the hall was regularly filled with applause as the community celebrated its newest and most impressive residents. Speaking before the shire’s three newest residents took to the Australian Citizenship Pledge, Macedon Ranges council mayor Jennifer Anderson led an acknowledgement of country, and said she was looking forward to seeing how those becoming citizens would contribute to the community in their own way. “By becoming an Australian citizen, we need to remember it doesn’t mean you’re forgetting where you come from, your own culture, or your own background,” Cr Anderson said. “It means that you can bring that with you, embrace it still, and also take on some of what it means to be an Australian.” Those in attendance were also treated to a keynote speech from Richard Rozen OAM, a holocaust survivor from Poland who migrated to Australia in 1951. Mr Rozen and his family spent 13 months hiding in a cupboard during the Second World War to escape persecution. After surviving the war, Mr Rozen arrived in Melbourne and has since become a successful businessman, a Bridge Grand Master and a National Chess Master. Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas said Mr Rozen’s story was a timely reminder to cherish the relative safety of our community. The afternoon then proceeded to the citizenship awards which this year included three new categories. Macedon Ranges Sustainability Group

L - R: Luke Spielvogel, Ron Cole, David Gormley O’Brien and Andrew Towner.

(MRSG) president Dr David Gormley O’Brien was named the Citizen of the Year. Since taking over as president four years ago, Dr Gormley O’Brien has more than doubled MRSG’s membership base, across a plethora of community action groups and was one of the founders of the Woodend Bee-Friendly Society. Dr Gormley O’Brien said he was “deeply humbled” to receive the award. “What actually gives me absolute pleasure regarding this, is the recognition that the council and the public have given to the Macedon Ranges Sustainability Group, and

(Pictures: Oliver Lees)

for the terrific work it has been doing in all the Macedon Ranges,” he said. In the new award categories, Newham resident Luke Spielvogel received the Connecting Communities Award. Passionate about the shire’s native surroundings, Mr Spielvogel founded a group dedicated to bringing recognition to Hanging Rock, which has included 6000 residents. He also founded the not-for-profit Rock & Ranges Brewing Co-operative which aims to provide social opportunities for the community. The Kyneton District Soccer Club was named the Healthy People and Environment

Citizen of the Year David Gormey O’Brien.

Award winner, adding another trophy to its cabinet after being named Football Victoria’s Regional Club of the Year for 2021. Led by president Ron Cole, the club has improved its female player participation to 42 per cent. And the Business and Tourism Award went to Braeside Mt Macedon owner Andrew Towner. Serving also as the president of the Macedon Ranges Accommodation Association, Mr Towner has advocated for local business and tourism operators in the area since moving to the shire in 2014.

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Advocate welcomes flag release By Oliver Lees Sunbury Aboriginal Corporation board member and Kamilaroi man Dean Duncan has welcomed the federal government’s acquisition of the copyright of the Aboriginal flag, describing it as “long overdue” justice for the country’s indigenous communities. On January 24, the federal government announced it had completed negotiations to acquire copyright of the Aboriginal flag for $20 million from Luritja artist Harold Thomas. For the past 50 years, non-Aboriginal private

companies held copyright licenses of the flag and would charge a fee for anyone wishing to use the image in physical or digital form. Mr Duncan said he was glad that Australians could now use the flag without paying compensation, but didn’t agree with Mr Thomas’ $20 million price tag. “It’s definitely positive, but it should never have gotten to that stage where people were held to ransom, particularly Aboriginal controlled organisations,” he said. “Yes, the creator has the right to ask for that money, but how can you put a price on your culture and your heritage?”

Mr Duncan said Laura Thompson, Michael Connolly and Nova Peris were crucial in spearheading the Free the Flag campaign which brokered the change. As the president of the National Indigenous Rugby Program, Mr Duncan said his fist call after he heard the campaign was successful was to the national rugby headquarters to have the Aboriginal flag reinstated on the playing uniform. Mr Duncan has constantly rubbed against the stringent copyright laws throughout his many years as an advocate. During NAIDOCC week last year, Mr

Duncan and his colleagues were asked to remove the flag from the bottom of their email signature. But all that is about to change, as he shared his excitement for the prospect of the flag cropping up on national sporting team uniforms, as well as on Sunbury Aboriginal Corporation advertising material. “For our next batch of shirts we’ll have the flag on it, and any work done in the community we’ll make sure it’s advertising the flag as well,” he said. “It’s part of our identity, it’s the fabric that makes up our community.”

Lancefield looks to bolster its junior girls side Lancefield Junior Football Club is on the hunt for new players to build its girls program as it looks ahead to the 2022 season. Last season the club created its first girls side, winning two matches from seven games. Lancefield is currently looking for any girls of any level of experience aged 10 to 18-years-old to give footy a go. Girls football co-ordinator Jacqui Green said it was great to see the team building football skills and growing in confidence. “Many of our players came to us at the beginning of the season, never having held a football and with limited knowledge of the game,” she said. “It was our fundamental skill sets worked on at twice weekly training sessions and continuous team building that saw the girls confidence grow over the season.

“If only it was a full season, who knows where it would have taken us.” To help the girls continue to grow, the club welcomed the Melbourne AFLW team to lead a development workshop. “Our mission is to provide the opportunity for all to grow and develop, while learning team discipline and sportsmanship,” she said. “You’ll hear our passion, our club has seen firsthand how football can make an immeasurable difference in young girls’ lives.” Lancefield’s preseason will begin on Tuesday, February 8 at 6.30pm. Details: https:// lancefieldjuniorfootballnetballclub.com.au/

Lancefield Junior Girls team.

10 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 1 February, 2022

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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.

Rotary club

Through the lens

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

Sunbury Combined Probus Club The Sunbury Combined Probus Club meets every fourth Thursday of the month at the Sunbury Football Social Club at 10am. Visitors and new Members are welcome. n Carmel 0416 477 271.

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. n vpm-4185@toastmastersclubs.org

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. n 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. n Frank, 0423 392 884

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of young Eli, 7, and Ezekiel, 4, as they look ahead to the Lunar Festival.

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

Female cricket Keilor Park Cricket Club is looking for players to join its female cricket team. The club, which has had success in recent years plays in the North West Metropolitan Cricket Association on Sundays. n http://ow.ly/kLiz50Hsqqj

Quilt-In

Let the scent of eucalypt and the calls of native wildlife captivate you on a night time walk at Hanging Rock. The walks are suitable for all ages, but spaces are limited and booking is essential. The ticket price is $25 per adult or $12 per child for two sessions running on Friday, February 18 and Friday, March 25. n 5422 0387

Wyndham Patchworkers is holding its 25th anniversary Quilt-In on February 12 at St James the Apostle Catholic Church Hall, 336 Derrimut Road, Hoppers Crossing from 10am to 3.30pm, with Veronique Diligent as guest speaker. The day will include a raffle, door prizes, show and tell and four local traders. Due to COVID-19 requirements there will be no door sales, so all attendees must pre-book via www. trybooking.com. Tickets: $15 including morning/afternoon tea. BYO lunch. Proof of vaccination status or medical exemption required. n Donna Morris, 0417 268 887

The Keilor Combined Probus Club is back in business following the lockdowns. The group meets the third Monday of every month at Keilor Pub. New members are welcome. n Steve, 0408 193 793, or Keith, 0409 494 801.

Women’s Day The Women’s Support Network will be launched at an International Women’s Day event in Brimbank on March 8. All women are welcome to attend. n wsn.org.au

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. n 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. n Julie, 0409 259 389

Deer Park probus The Deer Park Combined Probus Club

Education volunteers EdConnect Australia are on the search for Wyndham residents to mentor and volunteer with students for the 2022 school year. The charity places volunteers in local schools to help improve the lives of vulnerable young people and equip them with life skills. Whether you are recently retired or studying at university, EdConnect Australia offers training and support to its volunteers. Potential volunteers can apply online. n www.edconnectaustralia.org.au/ volunteer/ or 1800 668 550

AL-ANON meets 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.

Tutoring program Youth Services and Equal Ed are providing free online tutoring classes for young people aged 12 to 18 years old. The Academic Homework Support Program will run online on Wednesdays 4-5pm, from the second week of each school term

12 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 1 February, 2022

speaker, organised trips and outings, and a friendly atmosphere. n Lesley, 0414 481 442

Rotary club Anyone is welcome to come along to Yarraville or Footscray library for a weekly knitting group. Registrations are recommended via Eventbrite. n https://www.maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/ library/Events/Knitting-Group

Rotary Club of Point Gellibrand meets at Customs House Hotel, 161 Nelson Place, Williamstown, on the first and third Tuesday of the month from 6pm for a 6.30pm dinner meeting. Visitors welcome. n Pam, 0418 347 691or rotarypointgellibrand@gmail.com

Williamstown Craft Market

Mouth organ band

Commonwealth Reserve comes alive on the third Sunday of the month with the Williamstown Craft Market. The market boasts over 50 stalls showcasing everything from handmade craft, homegrown produce and food vendors. There will also be live music. The market takes place from 10am-4pm. n https://www.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/ Community/Whats-On/Williamstown-CraftMarket

The Yarraville Mouth Organ Band meets Friday evenings at 203 Williamstown Road, Yarraville. Great music, friendly atmosphere. New members, players or beginners welcome. n Heather, 9399 2190

Knitting Group

Hanging Rock night walks

Keilor probus

in 2022. All sessions are supervised by Wyndham council Youth Services staff. n Register at https://youthwyndham.com/ pgm-reg or Danielle Diez, 8375 2346

(Damjan Janevski) 265500

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

Conversation Cafe The Conversation Cafe is back on at Footscray and Braybrook Library! It gives people the chance to meet new people and practice English conversation skills in a relaxed and friendly environment. n https://www.maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/ library/Events/Conversation-Cafe

Diabetes support group The Westgate diabetes support group meets on the first Tuesday of every month at the Altona Bowling Club at 10am. n 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. n John, 0418 377 336

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. n 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. n Suzanne, 0417 512 420

Mahjong group Interested in learning to play Mahjong? U3A Melton has a group who play on Tuesdays at 10am. n u3amelton.com or 0419 563 016

Musicians welcome

Melton Men’s Probus Club

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. n Roger Lewis, hbcityband@gmail.com, or www.hbcb.org.au

The Melton Men’s Probus Club meets on the first Tuesday of each month at the Melton Dart Club, 63a Reserve Road, from 9.45am. New members and visitors are most welcome. n 9746 0271

Altona North combined probus The Altona North combined probus club meets on the fourth Wednesday of each month at Altona Sports Club. Includes a

Lunar New Year The Sunshine Lunar New Year Festival is on February 6 in the Sunshine Shopping precinct along Hampshire Road, between noon and 9pm. n https://www.sunshinebusiness.com.au/

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Australian stage and screen legend Margot Knight. (Pictures: Ben Andrews)

BEHIND THE NEWS

Margot rehearsing for Death of a Salesman at fortyfivedownstairs.

Actress shares her prison break Williamstown resident Margot Knight has done it all, from starring in iconic Australian TV shows to acting alongside Kate Winslet on the big screen. Although you wouldn’t know it, she’s as humble as ever, as Molly Magennis discovered.

escribed as an ‘Australian stage and screen legend’, Margot Knight has resided in the maritime town for close to 28 years and has deep roots within the community, with her daughters going to school in the area. Margot said it’s the water that has kept her in Williamstown all these years. “We’ve got the water so close, and all the parks. It’s a great suburb.” Margot has been an actress for 43 year. Her career starting on the small screen, picking up comedy roles in TV shows here and there. In 1980 however, Prisoner came along, giving Margot her big break. Prisoner ran from 1979 to 1986 and followed the lives of the prisoners, officers and other prison staff in the fictional Wentworth Detention Centre in Melbourne. The show has acquired cult classic status, and even spurred on a contemporary reimagining, Wentworth, which aired on Foxtel. Margot had two stints on the show, first in 1980 playing inmate Sharon Gilmour and then again in 1985 playing junior prison officer Terri Malone. Not only was Margot one of the few actresses to play both an inmate and an officer on the show, but both her characters were notable for being the show’s main lesbian love interest at the time. On her experience working on Prisoner, Margot said she deeply enjoyed the strong female characters portrayed in the show, and the dramatic storylines that ensued. “Oh, God, I loved it. It was a show with an all female cast, the odd bloke was in there, popped in from time to time, but you know, I mean, [it’s] set in a female prison. “The power relations, the power struggles within the prison, the emotional journeys, the ups and downs, the heartbreaks, all of the things that people go through in life and

they’re going through much of it, you know, in a confined environment, and in a prison where they have no choice but to be together. “So you know, it’s a melting pot … brings out conflict, which of course is the juicy stuff.” The actress would then go on to again play two different roles in the most iconic Australian drama of them all – Neighbours. She first made her appearance in 1986 and then again over a decade later in 1997. In 1996, she made what would be the first of multiple appearances in police drama Blue Heelers. The opportunity to work alongside Kate Winslet came about when Margot landed the role of Mrs Wood in the 2015 film The Dressmaker. The Dressmaker was filmed in Melbourne and across parts of regional Victoria, and

featured other big name actors like Liam Hemsworth, Rebecca Gibney, Judy Davis and Hugo Weaving. The film had its world premier at the 2015 Toronto International Film Festival and was the recipient of five AACTA awards. Margot auditioned for the role as she had read the book it was based on, and thought it was a lovely story. She said working on the set of the film was a wonderful experience, and that director Jocelyn Morehouse was fabulous to work with. “[I was] working with a lovely group of people and Kate Winslet I can tell you is a lovely person, really lovely person,” Margot said. “It’s always nice to know that isn’t it? [She was] very, very, very easy. It was good fun.”

This February Margot will return to the stage in her newest project, Arthur Miller’s famous Death of a Salesman. She will be playing Linda Loman, wife of Willy, the titular salesman and one of the play’s main characters. Of the classic American screenplay, Margot said it’s ‘incredibly relevant’ despite the fact that it was written in the 1940’s. “[Arthur Miller] has a lot to say in this play, which is why it’s so timeless,” she said. “There’s a lot to say about the cost, the human cost of investing in the dream of success and the American dream and what ultimately breaks this particular family, who were very invested in that. “I think it’s a very timely play to be staging at the moment. It’s incredibly relevant to our lives and I think audiences will be absolutely enthralled by the story, the drama within it. At times it’s absolutely heartbreaking, at times it’s funny, it’s tough, it challenges your thinking.” While the production has managed to get through the current Omicron outbreak mostly unscathed, bar a couple of cast members contracting the virus during the rehearsal period, Margot said that support for the arts industry is more important than ever before, and that audiences shouldn’t be afraid to see live theatre. “We really need an audience and I know that people have COVID related concerns, but it is a very, very, very properly managed venue and COVID safe practices will all apply.” “I personally am just absolutely hungry to go and see plays and to see theatre. “There’s nothing like the live experience of human beings out there in front of you.” Death of a Salesman will run from February 3-27. Tickets range from $40 - $55, and can be booked through: https://fortyfivedownstairs. com/event/death-of-a-salesman/

Tuesday, 1 February, 2022 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 13

PUZZLES No. 066

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 8 5 2 4 3

5 2 1 7 7 2

9 9 4 6 2

5 1 8 5 9 2

3 9

8 medium

3 2 5 8

9 7 4 9 1

QUICK CROSSWORD Sibling (6) One-storey house (8) Belonging to them (5) Maryland city (9) Lassoed (5) Painting of the countryside (9) Water-rich vegetable (9) Innumerable (6) Female name (6) Hushed words (8) Common greeting question (3,3,3) Make a speech (5) Brief statements (9) Florida city (5) Claptrap (8) Steal (6)

13 15 16 18 23 24 26 27 28 29

Area of hilly land (6) Deny (7) Doppelganger (4-5) Time for leisure (7) Beauty and the Beast heroine (5) Female cleaner (9) US president (1963–69) (7) Recount (7) Periods of 60 minutes (5) He might have a carrot for a nose (7) From Stockholm, say (7) Song’s words (6) Separated (5)

5 6 7 8 10

ACROSS 1 4 9 10 11 12

No. 066

14 16 17 19 20 21 22 25

DOWN Characterised by satire (7) Slumber (5) Domain of an earl (7)

1 2 3

DECODER

No. 066

6 8 7 5

1 5 4

4 9 3

3 6 6 4

5 7

2 hard

6 4 8 2

5 6 3 4 1 2

10 11 12 13

5 LETTERS ALONE APART AVERT AWARE AWOKE BERET BLAME BLEAT BUTTE CHASE DARES EARNS EDGED EDGES EGGED ELOPE ENTER FORGE GALLS HASTE

Today’s Aim: 5 words: Good 7 words: Very good

A V

4 LETTERS BASE BUSS EBBS EGOS HERS HUTS ISLE LETS MITE MOST PALE PREY USES UTES

No. 066

HEART HELLO IDEAL LARGE LEAFY LEDGE LEPER MOIST MUTTS PACTS PESTS RADAR RAWER REEDS REPEL ROUGE SAUTE SEEDS SKITE SLEDS SMUTS

SPORT STEAL STRUT TENET TEPEE TESTS USING VIGIL WORTH 6 LETTERS CONFER OODLES REHASH RESIST

7 LETTERS CAPSULE GURGLED OUSTING REALEST RUSTICS STIMULI 8 LETTERS EMBARKED NAMELESS SERENADE TREATISE

adit, AFFIDAVIT, aida, avid, daft, data, davit, diva, fiat, vita

No. 066 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 D Y

8 4 1 3 7 6 5 2 9

9 3 6 4 5 2 8 1 7

2 5 7 1 8 9 3 6 4

5 9 2 7 1 3 6 4 8

4 6 3 5 9 8 1 7 2

7 1 8 2 6 4 9 3 5

4 6 8 1 2 9 3 5 7

2 9 5 6 7 3 4 8 1

9 4 2 7 3 5 8 1 6

8 3 1 4 9 6 5 7 2

6 5 7 2 8 1 9 4 3

5 7 6 3 1 8 2 9 4

3 2 9 5 4 7 1 6 8

1 8 4 9 6 2 7 3 5

5 4 2 6 1 3 8 7 9

7 8 1 2 9 5 4 6 3

4 7 5 1 2 9 3 8 6

8 2 6 3 7 4 9 5 1

1 9 3 5 8 6 7 2 4

9 5 4 8 6 2 1 3 7

6 3 7 4 5 1 2 9 8

2 1 8 9 3 7 6 4 5

E V E R

14 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 1 February, 2022

P A N D A A G A I N W R I N G

QUICK QUIZ

Shannen Doherty stars in which TV show rebooted in 2019?

What is the ninth circle of hell in Dante’s Inferno?

In what years were the Salem witch trials?

All Saints’ Day occurs the day after what?

How old was Joan of Arc when she participated in the Battle of Orleans?

The Pyramid of Cheops is another name for which famous landmark?

What is the Amanita phalloides, the mushroom that accounts for the most fatal poisonings in the world, more commonly known as?

In the Harry Potter series, Viktor Krum attended which wizarding school?

For what category did Idina Menzel (pictured) receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame?

1 7 9 6 4 5 2 8 3

3 8 4 9 2 1 7 5 6

3 6 9 7 4 8 5 1 2

04-02-22

7 1 3 8 5 4 6 2 9

6 2 5 8 3 7 4 9 1

I E

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

10 words: Excellent

hard

medium

3 LETTERS ACE AGE ALL APE ART ASS BUT CHI EEL EKE ELM FOG GAS GET ICE INN ION LAG LSD ODE RED TEA TEE USE

C P S U L H I O Z Q E WM

easy

2 3 9

D T

5x5

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

8 6

4 3 9 6

A R N Y X B G J K V F D T

WORDFIT

10 What production company produced The Wizard of Oz? ANSWERS: 1. Beverly Hills 90210 2. 1692-1693 3. Halloween 4. The Great Pyramid of Giza 5. Durmstrang Institute 6. Live theatre/performance 7. Treachery 8. 17 9. Death Cap 10. Metro-GoldwynMayer

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CONSTRUCTION AND CONTRACTS MANAGER - CIVIL CONSTRUCTION An outstanding opportunity has arisen for an enthusiastic and experienced Construction and Contracts Manager to join a family-owned civil engineering contractor in Romsey. Newearth Constructions is a highly regarded civil construction company operating out of Romsey in the outer northern suburbs of Melbourne. Operating continuously since 1927 with experience in delivering land subdivision, local and state government projects in the area, our reputation is proudly built on exceeding the expectations of our clients in quality and value while placing safety at the pinnacle of our operations. The Role This is a hands-on role leading and managing our construction crews to deliver works for our broad range of clients. The incumbent will be directly involved in project tendering, pre-contract works, procurement, contract management, delivery, handover and close out; all undertaken within our existing HSEQ systems. The effective management of teams and tasks to build our capability, enhance our systems and deliver our projects to ensure client satisfaction is a key function of the position. Experience and Skills The position requires a formal qualification or significant experience in civil construction or a directly related field. You must have a strong understanding of civil construction from previous involvement in the industry in a similar or related role and must be able to demonstrate the following: • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills including the ability to liaise and work collaboratively with the work crews, clients, authorities and members of the public. • Excellent time management and organisation skills. • High levels of motivation with the ability to show initiative and self-start. • Proven success, managing a civil construction business or business unit • Proven ability to deal with conflict and confront challenges appropriately, particularly but not limited to the area of general organisational performance and the performance of projects and employees within the organisation • Sound business judgement and reasoning skills. Ability to grasp essentials of complex issues, balance risk/reward trade-offs in decision-making, and initiate action with appropriate consideration to the impact on business • Demonstrated ability to deliver results in a high-pressure environment and to operate autonomously using initiative, sound reasoning, listening and decisionmaking skills • Willingness and initiative to ensure continued self-development and currency with the civil construction industry • Proven high level of professionalism, maturity, integrity and candour in daily work ethic • Proven ability to be an effective leader/role model through exceptional leadership, mentoring and coaching skills and development of productive relationships with colleagues and team members • Capacity to organise and manage tasks productively and efficiently while identifying and implementing business improvement opportunities. • An unwavering commitment to confidentiality. As the company operates in a highly competitive environment, absolute confidentiality is essential and a fundamental condition of the employment agreement. As the majority of Newearth Constructions’ projects are commonly undertaken within the Macedon Ranges, Mitchell, Melton, Hume and Hepburn Councils, candidates who reside in or near the region will be highly regarded for the position. All applications must be in writing and directed to the General Manager, Mick McCarthy by email to careers@newearth.com.au Applications close Wednesday 9 February 2022.

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SPORTS QUIZ 1. Craig Tiley, the current CEO of Tennis Australia, hails from which African country? 2. Twin sisters Alicia and Keely Froling play for which WNBL teams? 3. Brothers Sam and Harry Froling both play for which NBL team?

5. Current West Coast AFLW coach Michael Prior played a total of 90 games for which two AFL clubs?

13. Italian Jannik Sinner defeated which Aussie in the fourth round of the Australian Open men's singles draw?

6. Who is set to become the inaugural head coach of the Dolphins when they debut in the 2023 NRL season?

14. In which year did AFL club St. Kilda win their only premiership to date? 15. How many times has Brazil won the FIFA World Cup?

7. Andrew Gaze spent a season playing NCAA Division I basketball for which US college?

4. What AFLW team plays its home games at Casey Fields?

Jannik Sinner

16. And which German is the all-time leading goal scorer in World Cup tournaments?

8. Who is the head coach of Australia's men's national soccer team?

21. Which national rugby sevens team did Australia defeat in the bronzemedal match of the 2022 Spain Women's Sevens?

17. Which Australian allrounder smashed 91 not out in the opening T20 against England in the Women's Ashes series?

9. Who is the head coach of Australia's women's national soccer team?

18. Ukrainian women's tennis star Elina Svitolina is married to which 35-yearold French player?

10. The parents of US tennis professional Jessica Pegula own which NFL and NHL teams?

19. Which Collingwood player, who suffered an eye injury in 2019, has asked the AFL for permission to wear prescription sunglasses during matches?

11. By how many points did Australia defeat England in the final of the netball Quad Series? 12. Which Melbourne Renegades bowler took four wickets in four balls against the Sydney Thunder in a recent BBL match?

27. What team will Daniel Ricciardo compete with for the 2022 Formula 1 season?

22. In what country is the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup being held in March?

28. Cleveland's Major League Baseball team will be known by what new name in the 2022 season?

23. Chris O'Neil won what women's grand slam singles tennis event in 1978?

29. What stadium played host to the final of the 2021–22 Big Bash League?

24. How many total Olympic medals has Emma McKeon won?

30. What Collingwood player was recently announced as captain of the club for the ninth consecutive season?

25. Kyle Adnam is the captain of which NBL team?

20. Glenn Maxwell scored 154 not out in a BBL innings from just how many deliveries in total?

26. In what weight division does Australian boxer Tim Tszyu compete in?

Elina Svitolina 0402

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Outlander is not all as it seems By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring Mitsubishi’s Outlander is back, bigger and boofier than ever – but all is not quite as it seems because the latest Outlander hides a Nissan X-Trail, the first time the Japanese brand has released a badge-engineered car. By the same token, it has just as much in common with the Renault Koleos, which also shares the same platform. It’s all a reflection of the fact Mitsubishi is part of the NissanRenault-Mitsubishi Alliance and has been for a long time, although it rarely gets a mention. Outlander is priced from $34,490 plus on-roads. Our test vehicle, the Exceed, sits second from top and is priced from $47,990 plus on-roads. Styling For two grand more, Exceed Touring adds two-tone paint and interior trim, along with massage for driver and front passenger seats. LS and above models get three rows of seating as standard. The cabin has an upmarket look and feel, with its quilted leather seat trim, piano black console surround and quilting on the doors too. The car is slightly longer than its predecessor, but more importantly wider and taller with a 36mm longer wheelbase that translates to more interior space -- especially more rear legroom. But the third row is still extremely cramped and suitable only for small children (how many times have I written those words). At the same time, the second-row slides forward to provide more room. The tall, skinny, third row headrests look like Easter Island statues, but fortunately can be stowed under floor when not required. Second row passengers also get their own air outlets as well as sun blinds for the side windows. There’s plenty of eye candy too, with a digital instrument cluster and attractively styled free-standing touchscreen that’s super responsive to the touch. But the instrument panel looks a little busy. It’s not apparent from the photos, but that’s the way it feels. The Japanese love a good acronym, especially when it comes to describing the technical features of cars. Although it’s no acronym, you might be interested to learn that Outlander was penned under the design language “I-Fu-Do-Do”. Don’t laugh. It may be lost in translation, but means “authentic and majestic” in Japanese, and shows in the Outlander’s bold proportions, muscular fenders and the chiselled lines of the “dynamic shield” radiator grille. Whatever, it looks pretty damn good, probably the best iteration yet of what we’ve come to think of as the ‘Decepticon’ look. Until recently, even top of the line Mitsubishis sometimes missed out on satellite navigation. Drivers were forced instead to rely on their mobile phones if they needed to find their way somewhere. But there appears to have been a change of thinking at Mitsubishi HQ, because all models now come with satellite navigation as standard. Standard kit includes dual zone climate control with rear air vents, front and rear parking sensors and traffic sign recognition -- as in speed limit warnings. Outlander ES and LS models also have 7.0-inch colour multi-information display as part of the instrument cluster. Aspire and above, however, gets a 12.3-inch full colour digital instrument cluster. By the time you get to Exceed, there’s leather, three-zone climate, 20-inch alloys, heated and cooled seats, 360 degree reversing camera, a panoramic sunroof and 10-speaker Bose audio. Additionally, a 10.8-inch full-colour head-up display is fitted to Aspire and above models. Infotainment A stylish, responsive 9.0-inch touchscreen is standard across the range. 10-speaker Bose audio with satellite

Mitsubishi Outlander... looks aren’t everything but they help.

navigation, DAB digital radio, AM/FM radio, Bluetooth with voice control and audio streaming, wireless Apple CarPlay, wired Android and wireless smartphone charging and 2 x USB ports. Engines/Transimissions Replacing the previous 2.0 and 2.4-litre petrol and 2.2-litre diesel engines, is a one-size fits all Nissan 2.5-litre, four-cylinder, naturally aspirated petrol engine that generates 135kW of power and 245Nm of torque. It’s paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), with paddle shifts and Sport mode that provides access to eight pretend gears. The change lever itself feels more like a joystick, with a button for park. Two-wheel drive models get five drive modes, all-wheel drives get six. Safety Depending on trim level, safety includes Forward Collision Mitigation (FCM) with MMC first application of cyclist detection and junction assist, Blind Spot Assist (BSA), Blind Spot Warning (BSW), Lane Change Assist (LCA), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), Automatic High Beam (AHB), and a Multi Around Monitor camera system with moving object detection.

Driving Power output is more than the 2.4 it replaces, but still somewhat average in the context of today’s sophisticated hybrid and turbocharged setups. But performance is adequate providing you don’t have high expectations. In fact, it’s about as middle of the road as it gets, not surprising considering the car’s target market. Straddling the medium to large segments in terms of size, the previous model attracted young and growing families on a limited budget. They were chasing size and price, and the Outlander nailed it. The new Outlander is a better looker, feels more upmarket and will have similar appeal. The last time we drove the Outlander Exceed it had a $42,990 price tag. But with prices from $5000 more, even for the entry ES model, it has lost some of its gloss. It could see buyers start to look elsewhere, because to these people $5000 is an awful lot of money. Drive-by-wire transmission combined with new CVT control logic is designed to deliver a feel more like a traditional auto and to some extent it does. It’s generally more responsive and better behaved than we remember, but still has a

tendency to become “zoomy” under load. It’s hard to describe, but you’ll know exactly what I mean when it happens. Steering is light and responsive, and the ride is very good considering the large 20-inch wheels and low-profile rubber. The re-engineered all-wheel drive system includes enhanced Active Yaw Control, now including rear wheel brake control for independent control of all four wheels, and the evolution of 4WD control with a new hydraulically activated direct coupling device for faster all-wheel response. Impressive but what we don’t like is the twitchiness that marks the system. It never really settles down, as the system continues to make tiny but frequent adjustments to maintain optimum traction -- and needs to be dialled back. With a 55-litre tank, it is rated at 8.1L/100km and takes standard 91 unleaded. The trip computer was showing 8.2L after just over 400km (the old one was good for 7.2L/100km). Standard warranty is five years or 100,000km, but if you get your vehicle serviced with Mitsubishi it’s an impressive 10 years or 200,000km. Summing Up Like the looks, less thrilled about the performance and the way it drives.

Tuesday, 1 February, 2022 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 17

SPORT Macedon Ranges Rockies bolt into the top four Crucial wins in the tail end of the season have helped elevate the Macedon Ranges Rockies into finals contention in the Country Basketball League north-west competition. Going into a back-to-back fixture against Bacchus Marsh, Rockies coach Michael Ryan knew his team’s season was on the line. “We treated it like a mini final series, we knew we had to win both of them [to play finals],” Ryan said. Playing first in Bacchus Marsh and then at home, the Rockies prevailed in both contests, and launched themselves into fourth place with one match remaining in the season. In both matches the Rockies’ team fitness came through as they overcame the Lions with near identical score lines, 87-73 and 86-72. True to form, Billy Feben, an ex-Bacchus

Marsh player, led the Rockies offence with an average of 25 points over the two games. Feben was the league’s overall top scorer in round seven. Matthew Quinn chipped in with 11 and 14 point games, as the Macedon Ranges had at least four players scoring in double digits in both matches. Ryan also praised Mark Colverd’s 14 point performance on January 23, which included four three pointers. Bacchus Marsh was significantly hamstrung coming into the matches due to its top scorer Blake Allison being unavailable due to COVID-19 protocol. Allison posted four double digit performances before his season was put on hold.

While player unavailability was a factor for both clubs, Ryan said he was also ecstatic to see players coming off the bench and having an impact. “We had to play whoever was in front of us, they were both really good games with lots of lead changes early on,” he said. “It’s just a credit to those guys sitting on the bench, and shows we’ve got some really good depth.” “But we pulled away in both games and got out to 20 point leads.” Ryan conceded the Lions match at Woodend Buffalo Stadium was a physical contest, with three of his starters fouling out. “We get better every time we go out there,” he said. “We knew we had must-win games, but we

just tried to stay in the moment and we knew if we did that, the result would go our way regardless.” Echuca, Bendigo and Maryborough will stand in the way of the Rockies’ chances of a grand final win in their maiden season. They each sat with seven wins and two losses after nine rounds. Macedon Ranges lost its first match of the season to Maryborough 80-60, but only lost narrowly to Bendigo and Echuca. Both of those contests were decided by three points. The Rockies also celebrated Lachlan Scott’s 50th game late in the season. Oliver Lees

Manfre back with Cannons

Diggers Rest batsman Lindon Dowsett.

(Joe Mastroianni).

Struggling to find form By Oliver Lees Diggers Rest Bulla have struggled to maintain a its best cricket so far this season in the Gisborne and District Cricket Association’s McIntyre Cup. Despite starting its season promisingly with a win, the club has since been unable to get the job done. Diggers Rest Bulla has lost its last five games either side of the round seven and round eight fixtures, which were suspended due to play shortages. In round nine, Sunbury United remained unphased by the hot conditions and piled on a convincing opening innings tally of 8/223 against the Burras. The commanding first innings total was driven by Damien Edwards 103 off 118, in a knock that included 13 boundaries. Diggers bowlers Jacob Grant (3/52) and Nic Diss (3/49) did most of the damage with ball in hand but were ultimately unable to maintain United’s firepower. Nalaka De Silva’s knock of 42 and Rhys Berry’s 39 provided a glimmer of hope for

Diggers, but the rest of the batting order collapsed for minimal return. Diggers was bowled over for 132. Zach Forster led the bowling effort for the United with a tidy 3/13 off his nine over spell, which included four maidens. After nine rounds, the Burras sat in ninth position with one win, three draws and five losses. Reflecting on the season so far, Diggers Rest Bulla opening batsman Lindon Dowsett said an inability to sustain their competitiveness was the root of the club’s problems. “We started the year well with a win, and except for that game [against Sunbury United], we’ve been in every single match and unlucky not to win a couple more,” he said. “It’s more about making sure we’re playing for 90 overs, not just 50 or 60 overs. “It’s also about experience, a few of the guys from other teams have had a lot more experience in McIntyre, so it’s about getting that exposure.” On the positive side of things, Dowsett heaped praise on the club’s playing coach Nalaka De Silva.

18 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 1 February, 2022

In six matches De Silva has averaged 37 runs. His season includes two half centuries and a season best knock of 89 against Bacchus Marsh. In the Burras only win against the Sunbury Kangaroos, De Silva also chipped in with an impressive 3/13 off six overs. Dowsett said Burras captain Rhys Berry had also been of the side’s most consistent contributors. “He’s probably not quite been rewarded with the wickets, but every week he’s a danger,” he said. “I reckon if he’s not the best bowler in the competition, he’s definitely in the top three.” Like other clubs across the competition, the Burras breathed a sigh of relief when it was announced the GDCA would postpone its round seven and round eight fixtures. Dowsett said the club would have been missing seven or eight players from its first two sides and more in the lower teams. The GDCA season will continue until March 5, with finals the following three weeks of the month.

Keilor’s Olivia Manfre jumped at the opportunity to return to the Calder Cannons and continue her football development this year. Having played some solid football in the last few years, Manfre is keen to take her game to the next level and press for higher honours. “I’m so grateful and honoured to be able to represent the Cannons for one more year as a 19-year-old,” she said. “The opportunity presented itself and I was keen to come back. “I started the first half of last year well, but I don’t think I was consistent. Having had that experience under [coach] Ross Smith, I’m keen to come back for another year and improve my footy and have a solid season and see what comes of it.” Manfre’s leadership has been recognised, named co-captain of the side alongside Reese Sutton. Manfre said this year’s squad was a young one, but there was plenty of talent among the group. “There are so many young girls this year, we’re quite a young group,” she said. “At the Cannons development is the main focus. We’ll work hard and hopefully the wins will come along with that and we’ll be able to show everything we have learned and see how it goes.” Manfre is set for a big season on the field, as she also aims to play in the Victorian Football League Women’s competition with Essendon. She said her experiences playing in Keilor women’s side had really helped her adjust to training with the Bombers. Manfre won the EDFL premier wdivision goal kicking in 2021, with 19 goals. “I’ve learnt so much throughout the pre-season,” she said of Essendon. “Hopefully I’ll be able to take everything back to the NAB League.” As well as aiming to play VFLW, Manfre has her eyes set on playing Vic Metro. Ultimately, she would love to play AFLW in the future. “Metro and getting drafted are the goals I’ve set for myself,” she said. “Hopefully I can play some consistent football and get there.” Tara Murray

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Sunbury harbours finals hopes By Oliver Lees A surge of form in the new year has helped keep Sunbury Cricket Club’s finals hopes alive in division 3 of the Victorian Turf Cricket Association. Sunbury was struggling to get wins on the board in 2021, as it ended the year with one win, one draw and four losses. After eight matches, Sunbury sat in seventh spot, two wins out of finals. But in the first two rounds after the summer break the club was able to find its groove with back-to-back wins. On January 15, Sunbury recorded its most convincing win to date. Sunbury rolled Laverton 10/35 in just 20 overs. Brad Hunter made quick work of the Laverton attack, taking 5/12 off six overs. Jason McGowan also helped to maintain the pressure with figures of 3/14, as Laverton crumbled with seven of its batsmen facing less than 10 deliveries. Jason McGann made quick work of chasing down the measly total, as he raced to 27 off 17 and Sunbury won the match for the loss of one wicket.

Sunbury batsman Craig Ballinger. (Damjan Janevski)

Club president Brendan Doyle said he was glad to see the team’s hard work paying off. “We’ve been really pleased with the progress, we were looking at hwo we can improve things and decided to be a little more aggressive in our batting line up,” he said.

“It’s great to see Brad [Hunter] doing well, he’s one of the elder statesmen, not only of the club, but the league. “It certainly helps when you’ve got [Jason] McGann and [Jason] McGowan on the other end keeping things tight and attacking.”

Jets to reset with new look roster Sunbury Jets coach Ben Draper is confident his team can back up last year’s strong performance in the Big V women’s state championship division, despite losing three critical players. The Jets were flying at the tail end of last year before the Big V was forced to cancel the season due to COVID-19 restrictions. Sunbury lost just two of its 14 matches, finishing one game behind Bulleen in second place. But the season wasn’t without its challenges, as key players Courtenay Wragg, Jacinta Beckley and Orla O’Reilly all announced their departure from the club. The three spent the most amount of time on court of any of Sunbury’s players last season and each played crucial roles in offence. Beckley was the Jets top scorer, averaging 21.4 points per game and shooting an impressive 42 per cent from behind the three point line. Star Weekly reported in August last year that the forward from Wellington had returned to New Zealand to be closer to family and to play for the Capital Swish in the NZNBL. Meanwhile Wragg and O’Reilly were picked up in the NBL1 at the Ipswich Force and the Waverley Falcons respectively. But Draper said it wasn’t all doom and gloom, as the club had secured the resigning of Swedish shooting guard Ida Andersson. Andersson first signed with the Jets in 2020 but was unable to get onto the floor due to the season’s cancellation. “I think she was rather eager to finish what she started,” Draper said. “We had a chat about our philosophy and style of play, and it was excited about it because it seemed my approach was similar to hers. “She’s a high volume scorer, and can really score at will. She’ll be handy, and defensively a lockdown player.” Andersson played college basketball at Barry University in the United States before joining the Jets. In her 2018-19 season, she averaged 14 points and six rebounds. Draper said the club had also re-signed Beth Theodore and that players would be coming up from the youth league. He said the club was also attempting to sign other players wasn’t yet in a position to make an announcement. The Big V has announced its structure for the 2022 season, with two new sides joining the Big V championship women division. Chelsea and Pakenham have both been

Jacinta Beckley.

Reese Sutton returns to the Sunbury Lions

(Shawn Smits)

added to the competition as Keilor and Casey moved up a division. Draper said his team would have a new focus going into this season. “We’re going to be adapting to a slightly different style of play, try to be a lot more assertive and put a lot more pressure on the ball,” he said.

Doyle said an injection of youth in the team had also allowed them to be aggressive and enthusiastic in the field. The introduction of fresh players in the side came as the club dealt with player shortages. Across the VTCA and many other community sporting associations, clubs have been struggling to field times due to the high number of players on holiday or in isolation due to COVID-19 protocol. As the Gisborne and District Cricket Association cancelled matches for two weeks due to the issue, Sunbury was able to poach some players to fill its third and fourth senior teams. Despite the challenging circumstances, Doyle said the change fact invigorated the side, rather than cripple it. “I think part of the success has been having people missing, it’s very exciting to be able to reward some players by elevating them,” he said. “There’s no use going in with the same mix if it’s not working. We made some changes and others were brought on by unavailability, so that forced us to look outside the square, and find some answers. “We’ve turned the corner and we feel that finals are not out of the picture.”

“The girls are getting along really well. It’s a really good group, chemistry wise. I’m expecting to see some really good things out of them, it’s a good place to be at this stage of the year.” The 202 Big V season will begin on the weekend of March 19. Oliver Lees

Young gun Reese Sutton will rejoin the Sunbury Lions senior women’s side for the 2022 Essendon District Football League season. The 17-year-old started her football at the Lions as a junior player before moving to Aberfeldie last season. She said she was looking forward to rejoining her old club. “I’ve decided to come back home to the Sunbury Lions and see whether I can play in the VFL,” she said. “My brother is there, and I know the senior coaches well so it should be really good.” Now in her third season playing for the Calder Cannons in the NAB League, Sutton has also been named as co-captain of the playing group alongside Olivia Manfre. Having spent time at the Cannons under leaders such as Georgie Prespakis, who went on to be selected with the number one overall pick in the AFLW draft last season, she said she was excited to be in a position to provide guidance on the field. She also served as a vice-captain as an under-15s player at the Lions. “I like the idea of stepping in and being able to take control and letting people know how they can improve. It’s really just about helping girls out so they can keep improving their skills.” On a personal level Sutton admits there are areas of her game she’s hoping to work on. Moving forward she said she’s hoping to model her game on prolific AFLW Richmond midfielder Monique Conti. “She’s just a great player with fast hands and with her kicking,” Sutton said. “I’m looking to be able to get in more contests, stop my ball-watching, and improve my disposal efficiency.” She averaged six disposals along with two tackles in the 2020 season and was able to improve those numbers last year to nine disposals and three tackles per game in nine matches. Oliver Lees

Tuesday, 1 February, 2022 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 19

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