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Hitting the Shitbox road

Michael White is driving a ’shit box’ car from Rockhampton to Hobart to raise money for the Cancer Council.

(Damjan Janevski) 290747_01

It sounds nuts, but Michael White from Diggers Rest will be driving a $500 Holden Commodore from Rockhampton to Hobart as part of the Summer Shitbox Rally 2023, raising money for the Cancer Council. Through the guts of Australia, via the artesian basin, he and his mate Reece Brown will work as part of a team of six to make the 4000 kilometre journey. “We’ll drive sections every day, going from town to town, stopping, camping, having a bit of a party with the locals, and then moving onto the next town,” Mr White said. The 34-year-old triple-0 emergency radio dispatcher said the pair were full of blind faith. He and Mr Brown don’t know a lot about cars, but are keen for sponsors and donors to get onboard to make their trek worth it. “We’ve both had family and recently some mates die of cancer … it just seemed like a pretty important thing to jump in on,” Mr White said. To donate to the cause or find out how to sponsor, head to: https:// summer2023.shitboxrally.com.au/thetape-deck-of-destiny. Elsie Lange

Woodend bank to close By Elsie Lange From early September, if a Commonwealth Bank Australia (CBA) customer living in Woodend wanted to go and see a teller, or struggled using ATMs or online banking, they’d have to travel to Gisborne or Kyneton. Woodend resident Terry Stone wasn’t impressed when he received a letter from the bank notifying him of the closure, especially since he’d only become a CBA customer because of its presence in his community. “It’s been helpful to have the branch there from my perspective, but what I have noticed is every single time I’ve been in there, I see older

members of the community conducting their banking … they’re very much cash-based,” Mr Stone said. He was worried for the more vulnerable Woodenders, who he believed would struggle without a local branch. “They don’t always have the same options that some of the younger, more able-bodied people do, in terms of being able to go to Kyneton, or being able to go to Gisborne,” he said. The letter sent to Mr Stone, seen by Star Weekly, suggested customers conduct their banking at Australia Post if they needed, but he said the local post office was “not a viable alternative”.

“Due to [the] added weight of customers, local internet infrastructure is not reliable enough for even the local merchants to rely on. And for those suggesting withdrawing cash by taking cash back at the major supermarket in town, this would draw more business away from the smaller concerns such as the butcher or greengrocer in town and many other local family businesses too,” he said. CBA rural general manager David Castle said following a recent review which showed transactions at the Woodend branch were down by half over the five years before the COVID-19 pandemic, a “difficult decision” had been made to close the centre.

He said Woodend CBA employees were being supported to find new roles. “For Woodend customers, we have other branches in the region at Kyneton and Gisborne. We’ve found a quarter of customers from Woodend are already visiting these other branches,” he said. However, Mr Stone said he was worried how the closure would impact Woodend businesses, as people conducting their banking would spend in other towns. “That’s money that leaves the local economy and gets spent in Kyneton and Gisborne, which is great for them, but it starts to destroy the fabric of the local town,” he said.

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Dixon Field master plan adopted By Elsie Lange Ahead of another week in which Gisborne Soccer Club’s senior teams had to organise their home games at other grounds because of a waterlogged pitch, Macedon Ranges council adopted the long-awaited Dixon Field master plan. Estimated to cost $8.7 million, the seven-stage master plan will be implemented over a 20-year period, with works to redevelop or upgrade any soccer pitch areas not to be dealt with until stage two. The 20-year plan will implement new or

upgraded communal areas and toilets, car parking, helipad relocation, pitch irrigation, lighting, drainage and upgrades, a tennis and croquet clubhouse, courts and croquet green, roads, pathways and a playground. At a meeting in late July, council assets and environment director Shane Walden said council had applied to the state government’s Local Sports Infrastructure Fund for money to undertake a detailed design for stage two, which is the second ground. “Once the second pitch is constructed, council can then plan and undertake upgrades to the existing soccer pitch, without needing

to remove the club’s access to a full-size soccer pitch for an extended period,” Mr Walden said. Gisborne Soccer Club president Richard Smart said while he was happy to see the master plan adopted, he wanted to see progress on the proposed stages, and fast. “If you look at the Macedon Ranges Regional Sports [Precinct] and how long that took [to get started], that was a very long time,” Mr Smart said. “I know it was more expensive, but I think they’ve only just started in the last month or two despite talk about that having gone on for years.”

The waterlogging at the club’s only playable, full-size pitch meant two men’s senior teams would play in Sunbury and its women’s team in Melton, after deadline, because there were no other options in the Macedon Ranges. “We’ve had to leave the whole shire to play, because the only other full-sized pitch is in Kyneton and they play on it,” Mr Smart said. “It’s a bit of a shame on the actual shire itself … imagine if Sunbury had the problem and they tried to come to us, we can’t even play our own games never mind help clubs from other shires.”

Hume honours the Wurundjeri

Grandma’s Obsession is a real pearl healthy by challenging it and stopping it from dwelling on medical treatments and things.” The 62-year-old said she was “always looking for people to feed her obsession”. “I’m always open to new ideas, challenges, anything to get my brain occupied,” she said. She said it’s gorgeous to think about all the kids and animals wandering around in her work. “I think it’s wonderful, I feel chuffed,” she said. Elsie Lange

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more’,” Ms Mills said. From there, her Facebook knitting page, Grandma’s Obsession, was born. Because the treatment has prevented her from working, her new passion is her coping mechanism. She knits all things for people in the community now – beanies, children’s clothes and dog jackets – and she puts the popularity down to knitting being a fairly “lost art”. “Even if I haven’t got any orders, I’ll go through the internet and pick things out anyway,” Ms Mills said. “I’m keeping my brain

Lig ar St

Sunbury’s Suzanne Mills didn’t know a few years ago that a breast cancer diagnosis would lead her to her great love: knitting. She was working full time when she noticed a dent on her breast, which eventually led to a mastectomy in July last year. In between all of her treatment, her daughter became pregnant. To keep busy, and to keep her own thoughts at bay, Ms Mills decided to start knitting the baby everything under the sun. “It became an obsession, to the point that [my daughter] was saying, ‘Mum, please, no

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Cancer survivor Suzanne Mills started Grandma’s Obsession to keep her thoughts at bay. (Damjan Janevski)

From August 1 to 7, Hume council celebrated Wurundjeri Week for the third year running. Council city services director Hector Gaston said it was an important time to “recognise, remember and celebrate” the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Traditional Owners of the land Hume residents live and work on. “Acknowledging their celebratory week is part of council’s ongoing commitment to collaboration, support and recognition,” Mr Gaston said. “The Wurundjeri are the Traditional Owners of this area and there is extensive history and living culture present in Hume. It’s important that council provides the Traditional Owners the platform to share the history, stories and culture that they are comfortable to share when appropriate.” At this time, council is developing a new Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) with input from Aboriginal community members in its RAP working group. “Council’s RAP is our vision for walking alongside our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community,” Mr Gaston said. “This document guides how we engage with community, how we work together, and how we support projects such as the Stolen Generations Marker Project, investigating opportunities for an Aboriginal Gathering Place and events such as Welcome Baby to Country. “Hume has done a lot of work over the past decade in naming places in the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung language, improving engagement and seeking guidance from the Wurundjeri on the way we develop policies, plans and activities.”

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A cold winter for the homeless By Elsie Lange Dwindling overnight volunteer numbers has meant Sunbury’s winter homelessness service can only provide a roof to people sleeping rough for just one night a week this year. During Sunbury Winter Shelter’s first iteration in 2019, it sought to provide 24-7 service, with five local churches, as well as community members, banding together to give the homeless a place to rest. It was successful, and after lockdowns, they were excited to deliver it again – running from June 1 to August 31 for 91 days – but it wasn’t so simple.

Jane Voon, an organising volunteer with the shelter, said while they had plenty of volunteers for the various shifts between 5pm to 11pm, there simply weren’t enough people to keep the doors open all night. “All voluntary organisations have had the same problem of a drop in volunteer numbers and it’s a combination of things … I think it’s because the volunteers are retired people and they are conscious of their health issues,” Ms Voon said. That means the 18 people the service is in contact with are potentially without a roof for six nights a week, in what has been a

particularly harsh winter. “Instead of accommodation seven nights a week we offer a meal, fellowship around a fire pit, [and] great conversation we have,” Ms Voon said. Ms Voon said sleepover homelessness services in the town were few and far between – the single night available at the central St Andrews Uniting Church was all that was on offer. She said what was needed was investment in social housing in Sunbury. “Every night when they leave they get a breakfast pack, instead of a bed – it’s very sad,” she said.

The youngest Hume councillor and Sunbury SES volunteer, Jarrod Bell, called on locals to put their hands up to help with the rest of the season. “Sunbury has an inspirational tradition of volunteerism from our sporting clubs, emergency services and community events – it is people giving their time so freely that makes Sunbury the amazing place it is,” Cr Bell said. “Sunbury Winter Shelter is a special way to lend a hand, learn new skills, meet new people and possibly even change a life. “You don’t need to give anything, but please consider giving something.”

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Andrew Towner with a certificate crowning Braeside Mt Macedon Country Retreat the ‘Best of the Best’. (Supplied: Tiffany Warner Photography)

Mt Macedon retreat rated the best “The setting must be beautiful, the location must be close to the region’s highlights, the accommodation must have an ideal blend of comfort and style and above all, the host must be knowledgeable and welcoming, while allowing guests their space and privacy,” Mr Wroe said. “We have worked with Braeside Mt Macedon for many years and hold it up as the gold standard for regional accommodation. “The owner, Andrew, absolutely nails every element and the extraordinary levels of repeat business are a testament to this.” Elsie Lange

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Only last month Mount Macedon was named the state’s Top Tiny Tourism Town by the Victorian Tourism Industry Council, and Mr Towner puts the region’s success down to the diversity of things to do there. “People don’t visit an area for just one experience. The Macedon Ranges has so much on offer and this is what brings our guests back time and time again,” Mr Towner said. “It is important that we nurture and support those small businesses working so hard to deliver these exceptional experiences.” Daylesford Macedon Ranges Tourism chief executive Steve Wroe said the key to success in the Trip Advisor award was getting “every element right”.

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It’s settled – Braeside Mt Macedon Country Retreat has been crowned the Best of the Best by Trip Advisor and owner Andrew Towner is delighted. The coveted award is handed out to properties in the top one per cent of bed and breakfasts and inns in Australia and the South Pacific. Mr Towner said the retreat was honoured to be recognised, as they were always looking for opportunities to make their guests’ experiences “extra special”. “Whether this be with personal introductions and dining recommendations, itinerary planning, or simply knowing our regular guest’s likes and dislikes – it’s the little things that make the difference,” Mr Towner said.

More than 20,000 Australians have signed up to become blood and plasma donors since the ‘mad cow’ ban was lifted last month. New figures released by Australian Red Cross Lifeblood show that 20,711 people booked in for their first blood donation since the rules changed, allowing anyone who lived or travelled in the United Kingdom for six months or more between 1980 and 1996, during the ‘mad cow disease’ outbreak, to finally donate. In a statement, Lifeblood said there were 30,000 blood donors cancelling or rescheduling their appointments every week and were asking people to see the opportunity to donate as “a winter marathon, not a sprint”. Lifeblood Australia executive director of donor services Cath Stone said one in six people who attended a centre had been impacted by the rule change. “It has been truly incredible to see so many generous people ready to roll up their sleeves and start saving lives as soon as the change was announced,” Ms Stone said. Lifeblood said it was continuing to look at other ways to ensure more Australians could donate blood and plasma, including its sexual activity rules which prevent gay and bisexual men and trans women from giving blood in Australia if they’ve had sexual intercourse with a man in the past three months. “Right now, we are looking at our sexual activity rules and exploring whether we can safely reduce the wait period for plasma donations,” she said. Book a donation at www.lifeblood. com.au, on the DonateBlood app or by calling 13 14 95.

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State election a federal replay By Elsie Lange While they are relatively safe seats, electorates in the north-west should expect similar swings against the Labor Party in the November state election as were seen at the federal election, according to a former Victorian Labor strategist. Strategy and campaigns director at political consultancy RedBridge Group, Kos Samaras, said while the swing against Labor wouldn’t be as “acute” in north-western electorates, it will still be present.

“I think most of the activity we’re going to see towards independents and minor parties will be the northwestern corridor – Greenvale, Broadmeadows, Kalkallo – those sorts of seats,” Ms Samaras said. “None of it will bring Labor into any danger of losing the seats, but they will lose significant primary votes.” Mr Samaras worked on Labor’s 2018 state election campaign and said while it may not happen at the next election, over time Labor’s stronghold in the north-west would begin to deteriorate as people moved towards minor or

independent parties. “What we’re seeing is every four years, [there are] four years of people jumping on the voters’ roll, four years of people moving into an area and four years of people dying,” he said. “As the years roll on, younger people are generally less party loyal, as they continue to jump on that vote as well, that continues to expand the number of people who will not be opting for any particular major parties. “They may at times vote for Liberal or Labor, but the chances of them opting for an

A play to make the audience think A powerful, challenging stage show that seeks to start conversations about intoxication and sexual consent is coming to Kyneton Bluestone Theatre in August. Gibbo, directed by Sandy Fairthorne and written by Fairthorn in collaboration with Anthony Sharpe, Kirsty Snowden and Rebecca Morton, is based on a true event and set in a farmhouse in regional Victoria. The play grapples with the concept of drug rape, revolving around a popular farming couple, Gibbo and Claire, whose lives are rocked when a woman enters their home a day after their party, where she believes she was drug raped. “She has only one request to make of this man,” Fairthorne said. “But it requires that he admits he committed the offence – therein lies the challenge.” Fairthorne said it was her own experience of the subject over three decades ago which prompted her to create something to get people talking. “It’s always bothered me how to write about this subject,” she said. “Then one day I thought, ‘what if … ’, and the spark for the play started.” The play has been five years in the making, and despite its dark themes, Fairthorne said it had moments of genuine tenderness and laughter. “The ending is, for the most part, both cathartic and positive. It has a sense of moving on, resolution, and even a glimmer of hope for the future – for all of the characters involved,” she said. Audience feedback from the show’s opening night in Castlemaine described it as “compulsory viewing“ and “gripping“. If you or someone close to you has been impacted by sexual violence, please reach out to: Sexual Assault Crisis Line on 1800 806 292 Centre Against Sexual Assault Central Victoria on 5441 0430

alternative is much greater.” Mr Samaras said the gentrification of the Macedon Ranges could produce a greater swing towards the Greens and Labor, because “the vast majority of people who live there now have more in common with those living in Brunswick than they do in Sunbury”. “It’s going to become a greener, redder seat – more Labor, more green voters are moving into Macedon and towns like Woodend and Trentham and Kyneton. “Greater numbers of tree changers, or progressive voters, are moving up there.”

Virtual ED to triage patients Residential aged care facilities, including those in Sunbury and the Macedon Ranges, will be a part of the Victorian government’s new initiative to better and co-ordinate triple-0 calls and ease pressure on hospitals and ambulances. Starting next week, Ambulance Victoria’s triage services will begin using the Virtual ED run out of Northern Health to improve how triple-0 calls from aged care facilities are are triaged. In a statement, the government said the new system would allow for some triple-0 calls for aged care residents who don’t need an emergency ambulance to instead be connected to the Victorian Virtual Emergency Department. “This expansion into aged care forms part of work underway to boost the overall capacity of the Virtual ED,” the government said. “Currently seeing an average of 300 patients per day, additional funding will see the service scale up to seeing more than 500 patients per day, including people living in residential aged care. “This new virtual service is expected to provide free assessment and consultation to around 80 patients a day and will be appropriate for residents with a variety of conditions or ailments, such as dehydration, unidentified infection or a cognitive event. “They can then be connected to a range of services and supports such as clinical assessments, medical advice and specialist referrals to better manage or treat their condition.”

Elsie Lange Playwright Sandy Fairthorne at Kyneton’s Bluestone Theatre.

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Growing calls for animal shelter By Elsie Lange Leading up to the November state election, two candidates representing the Animal Justice Party are calling for an animal shelter to service Sunbury and the Macedon Ranges. Northern Victoria candidate and Kyneton resident Georgie Purcell issued a joined statement with Western Metropolitan candidate Meg Watkins, saying a new animal shelter would allow for “quicker reuniting”, create jobs and provide another avenue for adoption.

Hume and Macedon Ranges councils continue to use the Lost Dogs Home in North Melbourne, which last week was revealed to be facing demolition and relocation as the state government moves forward with its redevelopment of the Arden street precinct. “Both Sunbury and the Macedon Ranges have high rates of companion animal ownership. It’s clear we love our pets in this area, and an animal shelter in the region would be welcomed,” Ms Purcell said. “An animal shelter in our region is vital to ensure quicker reuniting of lost and displaced

pets, and to provide more loving homes to surrendered animals through adoption services. “The Animal Justice Party will advocate for a new animal shelter in the Sunbury and Macedon Ranges as we head into the November state election.” Macedon Ranges council planning and environment director Rebecca Stockfeld said the organisation recognised community feedback received during consultation on its Domestic Animal Management Plan about a want for a local pound or shelter.

“As the municipality grows, council will continue to assess options for its animal services that ensures good value for money for the community and achieves positive outcomes for pets and owners,” Ms Stockfeld said. In 2020-21, Macedon Ranges council impounded 224 dogs and 186 cats, with 138 dogs and 23 cats directly reunited with owners by council officers, 41 dogs and five cats reclaimed via the Lost Dogs Home and 31 dogs and 102 cats rehoused, adopted or rescued.

Funding for ‘campers’ A local organisation providing social opportunities to young people with disability has scored a major grant to help it deliver its weekend getaway initiative. Macedon’s Flying Fox was one of 123 organisations to share in $3.75 million as part of VicHealth’s JumpStart! program, securing $25,000. Flying Fox fundraising and community engagement manager Tayla Cohen said the grant would help the organisation scale up its getaway program, Shortz. “Shortz is a program where we take small groups of young people with and without disability to our very own holiday house in Lancefield. It is a weekend away with mates,” Ms Cohen said. “We visit the local cafes – we love The Aspy so much. We support the local footy team … we just hang out, enjoying nature, the amazing Lancefield community, the local farmers market, and the company of our friends.

“The grant will help us scale to run many more of these weekend getaways into the future.” Using a unique Buddy model, Flying Fox recruits and trains volunteers between 18 and 25 years old to help provide support to over 250 children and young people with disability. VicHealth said it was thrilled to announce the successful programs last month. “We’re reaching far and wide across Victoria. There’s something here for everyone. The programs may be different, but they all share the same goal,” VicHealth said. “It’s all about supporting young people to reach their full health potential.” Ms Cohen said the organisation was proud of the impact it had on the lives of its participants, called campers. “We work with our campers and their families to ensure that their support needs are met and that they can let their hair down and experience amazing adventures with us.”

A Flying Fox camper.

(Supplied: Flying Fox)

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Library customer service officer Fay Bolch with the new CareWorks SunRanges collection bin.

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As you make your way into the Sunbury Library, you might notice a new feature at the front door – a wooden collection box for local not-for-profit crisis relief centre, CareWorks SunRanges. Library customer service officer Fay Bolch approached her supervisor to discuss a collaboration with CareWorks, to establish the non-perishable items donation bin. The idea was greeted with open arms. “I believe that we capture people here, especially coming through the foyer of the library,” Ms Bolch said. “Our turnover is quite high and I thought it was a great, opportunistic moment to be able to put a bin here for donations from the public.” CareWorks collected the first round of donations last week, and the metre-high bin was already half-full of goods to give to the people who come through their doors. Ms Bolch is passionate about looking after

the most vulnerable people in society and feels delighted to do her bit, as part of the library, in this way. “I don’t believe anyone in Australia should go hungry. No children, no people should go hungry, she said. “I also believe there should be housing for everyone as well.” The collection bin, which CareWorks made and provided, accepts non-perishable food items, like noodles, pasta, rice and tinned food, as well as hygiene products, like toothbrushes and toothpaste and body and hair wash. “This is our bit to be able to contribute to at least making sure that people don’t go hungry in the community,”Ms Bolch said. “I’d like to thank CareWorks for collaborating with us and helping us at Hume Libraries get this off the ground.“

Disability Advisory Council A new Disability Advisory Council has been appointed. Disability, Ageing and Carers Minister Colin Brooks said members of the council shape policies and service providing independent advice to government about issues impacting Victorians with disability. “Listening to the experiences of people with disability are a fundamental part of making Victoria the most inclusive and accessible state,“ Mr Brooks said. FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Sunbury & Macedon Ranges Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Elsie Lange

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

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‘‘

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

‘‘

’’

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

’’

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

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

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

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

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

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Hawke MP for ‘prosperity’ By Elsie Lange

Hawke MP Sam Rae.

(Supplied)

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In his maiden speech to Parliament last week, newly elected Hawke MP Sam Rae spoke about the meaning of prosperity, the challenges of population growth, the strength of working communities and what the new government would do for his constituents. At the May federal election, Mr Rae won the newly-created seat – encompassing parts of Hume, Melton and Mooralbool council areas – with 57.63 per cent of the two party preferred vote. In his speech, which received a standing ovation, he described the fast-growing Hawke electorate as diverse, and its new residents as “pioneers” contributing to the social, cultural and economic tapestry of existing communities. “But these enrichening changes also bring significant challenges. Population growth is putting our physical and social infrastructure under immense pressure,” he said. He said after “a decade of wilful investment failure” in the region, investment was desperately needed in roads, transport infrastructure, primary healthcare and education. “The people of Hawke are workers, and through that work they contribute to our society and they derive dignity,” Mr Rae said. “We are the teachers, the healthcare workers, the cleaners, the farmers, the drivers and the baggage handlers. We work in hospitality, child care, factories, construction and transport. “During COVID the workers of Hawke kept our country moving, delivering medicines

and vaccines, caring for our loved ones, maintaining our domestic supply chains and putting food on our tables. “They paid a disproportionate cost for these contributions with their health and the health of their families.” He thanked his mum and partner before Labor and union members, community activists and friends, and apologised to his young children for “the inevitable sacrifices that we have chosen for you to make”. He said he aimed to “stamp” the values of his constituents on the national conversation. “Fundamental to the issues we face as communities and the nation is the concept of prosperity … I speak of the prosperity enjoyed by citizens who are both mentally and physically healthy, where we and our loved ones can access world-class health care as a matter of right,” Mr Rae said. “I speak of the prosperity of opportunity, provided and inspired by access to education, training, fulfilling employment and vocational pride; the prosperity generated by quality of life. “I speak of the civic structures and infrastructure that facilitate our social and economic contributions, our moral and monetary reward, and the expedient return to the embrace of our families. “I speak of the prosperity secured by valuing our environment and our planet, by making decisions based on sustainability and triple-bottom-line outcomes, for meaningful action on climate change that creates jobs and fuels our economy with cheap, clean renewable energy.”

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RAL SOC

We’re building big in Sunbury and there will be transport disruptions As part of Victoria’s Big Build, we’re upgrading the Sunbury Line and removing the Gap Road level crossing. We’re also upgrading Sunbury Road, reducing congestion and making it easier to get around. Train disruptions: Buses replace trains in both directions Sunbury Line

From 8pm 13 August to 23 August

Sunshine to Sunbury

8.30pm to last train, 31 August

North Melbourne to Sunbury

Gap Rd/Station St, Sunbury

Until October

Between Horne St and Evans St

Sunbury Rd, Sunbury

At times, in August

Between Powlett St and Bulla Diggers Rest Rd

Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne

1855

Check before you travel at bigbuild.vic.gov.au/sunburyworks

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Road disruptions: Closed road and lanes

Tuesday, 9 August, 2022 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 9

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Call for better council culture By Elsie Lange Hume council has welcomed the Victorian Local Governance Association’s (VLGA) call for action on negative council culture, addressed by the Victorian Local Government Culture Review Project. The project is providing a platform for the local government sector to look into and take on board a positive and inclusive culture, to improve governance and public trust. The VLGA is an independent governance organisation supporting councils and councillors to strive for high local governance

standards and wants to see tangible outcomes from the project. VLGA chief executive Kathryn Arndt said it was “disheartening” to see the important work of councils, who are the closest arm of government to the people, be undermined by workplace behaviour. “Beyond the legal obligations of councils to maintain safe workplaces, nurturing a culture of civil conduct inside and outside of the council chamber is central to good governance,” Ms Arndt said. “There is a difference between the ‘cut and thrust’ of political debate and conduct which threatens the ability of councillors and

council officers to do their jobs. “We hope to see these complex dynamics addressed through the [project].” It was revealed in June that the total cost of internal councillor complaints and arbitrations at Hume council totalled nearly $143,000. With cases still ongoing, it is expected the cost will increase. Hume chief executive Sheena Frost said council “welcomes” further work on the culture review project. “We acknowledge VLGA’s call to action for councils and interest in working further with Local Government Victoria following the

Insights Report to ensure local government is an inclusive and safe place to work and that councils are serving in their communities’ best interests,” Ms Frost said. Outcomes the VLGA hope to see include a raised voter awareness about local governance, training for male and female candidates, diversity and inclusion support and support for chief executives to complete their work safely. Further, VLGA call for a culture of training for councillors, conflict resolution skills building and increased external supports through expanded roles for monitors and governance organisations.

Dancing dream realised James McDonell was barely a teenager when he started making the daily trek from his farming home in Riddells Creek to Southbank in Melbourne to attend a prestigious Melbourne ballet school. Now, the 20-year-old is part of the Australian Ballet School’s regional touring group, taking the troupe’s magical Swan Lake Variations around the country, maybe inspiring little boys from rural areas, like he once was, to dance. “It’s very exciting, to be able to show what I’ve been working for since I was nine years old,” McDonell said. “It’s a dream to be able to perform, maybe even to inspire younger people who may have the same dream as me. “Hopefully that can push them to say, ‘Hey, I will be able to achieve that too’.” The tour, choreographed by David McAllister, will make its way through Launceston, Hobart, Mildura, Bendigo, Broken Hill, Alice Springs and Darwin, the dazzling program paying

tribute to the enchanting music of Russian composer, Tchaikovsky. The gala will showcase a range of classic works, including Swan Lake and La Bayadère, as well as contemporary pieces. From his 4.50am starts and late finishes as a teen to his current rigorous training program with the ballet school, he said the support he received from his parents has made his life what it is. “They are my biggest supports, they’ve pushed me and always been there for me for whatever I needed and wanted,” he said. “I couldn’t ask for any better parents, really.” Elsie Lange Riddells Creeks’ James McDonell is touring regional Australia with the Australian Ballet School.(Supplied: Sergey Konstantinov/Australian Ballet School)

NEW

and sports balls that float

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10 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 9 August, 2022

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NEWS

Digging in for wildlife habitat By Elsie Lange Gathered near the base of a foggy Hanging Rock on a wintry Monday morning, a group of Macedon Ranges locals stood in their gloves and beanies ready to dig some native plants into the soil. Guided by Macedon Ranges council conservation workers, the community planting attendees kicked off platypus month by getting involved in improving the region’s local habitat – it is hoped platypus will return to the area one day. In attendance was Macedon Ranges mayor Jennifer Anderson who said everything council did, it did best with the community. “We do have a fantastic strategy to improve the environment in our gorgeous Macedon Ranges, and the staff work really, really hard,” Cr Anderson said. “But we can’t do it all alone, the efforts of the community helps … with their assistance it makes it so much easier. “You may think that you’re effort is only small, maybe you can only turn up to a working bee once every couple of months, but every single time you turn up you’re making a difference.” Community member Eleni Smith said she went along to the tree planting day because it was a great initiative to help with biodiversity. “It’s a super special place here, it’s so good that they’re doing stuff and hopefully it extends to other special places in the Macedon Ranges,” she said.

1 4

1/ Macedon Ranges mayor Jennifer Anderson with her platypus hand puppet at the tree planting day. 2/ Macedon Ranges council conservation reserves officer Simon Perves told attendees the importance of revegetating the area. 3/ Helen Evans at the planting day. 4/ Macedon Ranges council roadside conservation officer Josh Gomez. 5/ Community member Eleni Smith at the Hanging Rock planting day. 6/ Community member Stephanie Yeend planting a native sapling. 7/ Attendees planting the native saplings. 8/ Gisborne resident Mandy McFarlane planting a sapling.

ADJUSTABLE MASSAGE BED by

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Tuesday, 9 August, 2022 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 11

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MY PLACE It’s been a busy few years for Gisborne’s Noelene Richardson. Since moving to the region from the United Kingdom less than a decade ago, she’s become involved with numerous local groups and entrenched herself in the community. She tells Elsie Lange about making the Macedon Ranges home. to have such love and support around me. What do you like about where you live? I live close to the town centre which is a big plus for me. There is a strong community spirit here that is welcoming and friendly. I’m amazed at the number of committed gardeners in the area and their wonderful gardens. I love the beautiful birds and native flora and fauna, but am yet to spot a koala or a wombat in the wild. Whilst Gisborne is in regional Victoria, we are not too far from Melbourne, close to the airport, and you can even drive to a beach for a day trip. What, if anything, would you change about where you live? Although I love the Macedon Ranges and surrounding areas – it’s no secret I don’t love the weather in winter. I’ve spent most of my life close to the beach and outdoors and it’s challenging coping with the cold. (Damjan Janevski) 291153_02

Tell us a bit about you and what you do? I am the secretary of the Gisborne Rotary Club, president of the Macedon Ranges Croquet Club (MRCC) and secretary of the Northern Districts Croquet Association (NDCA). The Gisborne Rotary Club has recently celebrated its 45th year of service to the local community and further afield. We continue to support initiatives such as Multiple Sclerosis awareness, and give ongoing support for the homeless and the local food bank. Our last local fundraiser was the Easter Egg Hunt. Rotary is a truly global organisation, but we strive to support the local community first and foremost. I played my first game of croquet in October 2019, looking for an outdoor activity to become involved in after our first year of COVID lockdowns. I immediately loved it (it is addictive!) and six months later I took up the role of president. MRCC is an active local sports club in its 30th year. We have a range of members, some of whom have been with us for many years through to new members who have joined in the past year. Although our club is predominantly women, we are hoping more men will consider giving it a go and everyone is welcome when our season starts in September. The social connection is fun, the game is challenging and strategic and excellent for maintaining fitness. The opportunity to visit other clubs for tournaments in our district and beyond makes life interesting. I am also a volunteer of the Macedon Ranges branch of Days for Girls. Initially launched in the US in 2008, it is a global non-profit organisation that prepares and distributes sustainable menstrual health solutions to address the issue of period poverty. I have had a lifelong hobby of sewing, patchwork included, and enjoy knitting for the ‘Prem Babies’ at the Royal Melbourne Hospital. All of these have also been an

amazing way to meet and connect with other people in the community. I love making new connections and hearing people’s stories. What’s your connection to Gisborne? My daughter and her husband – who is originally from Lancefield – were living in Gisborne when my husband passed away

What is your favourite local place to spend time? If I’m not in my garden or someone else’s garden, then I love having a coffee or a bite to eat at Baringo. Hanging Rock is an ideal visit in the summer months for relaxation and to enjoy the natural surroundings and the wildlife.

seven years ago. I decided to move across the ditch to experience a new place, find a new direction and be closer to them and my three granddaughters who all attend local schools. My youngest son also moved back from the United Kingdom two years ago, and has joined us in Gisborne. We were delighted when we got news of his plans. I am fortunate

Tell us something people would be surprised to know about you. I’ve studied Feng Shui, I love organising people’s clutter. Balancing space creates positive energy. I am also incredibly competitive (particularly playing cards and board games) and have passed this on to my grandchildren, so look out when we get together for a games night because its game on!

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

August 11, 1992

August 12, 1997

August 13, 2002

August 14, 2012

Bulla Council will be asked to overturn its decision to preserve Sunbury’s Evans Street native grasslands next Monday.

A re-run election in the Macedon Ranges shire Hanging Rock Ward on Saturday confirmed Mr Gilbert Gordon as the people’s choice.

A Sunbury mother fears it will take a tragic death before VicRoads agrees to a second pedestrian path on the Macedon Street bridge and pedestrian crossings along the road.

Jet Set Pets: As people have become more mobile, so, too, have animals great and small. Sarah Harris packs her pawsport as the fur flies.

12 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 9 August, 2022

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BEHIND THE NEWS

Digging in for conscious farming A Keilor not-for-profit organisation is striving to create the next generation of sustainable farmers with a focus on stewarding lands and caring for community, as Holly McGuinness discovers.

griculture and farming is an essential part of Australia’s economy but Farmer Incubator examines the industry closely, holding it to a higher standard and supporting the next generation of farmers. The not-for-profit organisation was started in 2015 by Paul Miragliotta and Per Staurup who couldn’t find a simple way into becoming eco-conscious farmers, according to general manager Tom Tanhchareun. “They wanted to become regenerative small-scale farmers and there was just no pathway, so they started Farmer Incubator to fill that gap,” Tom says. “There’s pathways if you want to be a broad acre, conventional farmer with hundreds of acres and try to drag food out of dusty land and degrade it in the process. “But if you really want to care for land and have that intimate connection to country and community, the pathway to becoming a conscious farmer is much harder.” A 2021 Grattan Institute report on carbon emission reduction strategies said that in 2019, Australia’s agriculture industry was responsible for 15 per cent of the country’s greenhouse gas emissions, emitting 76.5 million tonnes. The report stated the majority of these emissions can be attributed to livestock farming, while 16.5 million tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions are a result of non-animal sources in the sector. Main contributors to this include fuel combustion, fertilisers and soil additives and emissions from crop residues. Part of Farmer Incubator’s vision is to reduce these harsh environmental impacts the industry imposes. “[Farming] actually has the potential to be a carbon sink, so it should be the other way around and that’s because of the practices that we use,” Tom says. “It’s not just carbon emissions, it’s also biodiversity and water management, agriculture takes up over two thirds of Australia’s landmass and what we do with that land will have a decisive impact on all aspects of Australia’s environment.” There’s a diverse assortment of hurdles for the future of the industry according to Farmer Incubator. These include but are not limited to mindful farming on stolen land, resourcing ethical up and coming industry professionals and providing a more sustainable, fairer future of food systems. It also wants to see an overall shift in the way the industry is practised, with more funding dedicated to converting agriculture and farming to become more regenerative and mindful. “There’s no funding because the government in Australia thinks of agriculture as an industry,” Tom says. “It’s there to make money by producing commodities to export and we think that agriculture is about stewarding lands and caring for community by providing people access to good quality food. “When you think of agriculture that way, and you look for funding to make it that way to achieve those goals there’s very little out there. “The issue for us is that we rely heavily on volunteer labour to sustain ourselves as an organisation but the kind of work we do really needs paid staff who can make a living off the time that they give. “The reason that funding doesn’t exist is because the conversation about agriculture in this country is so far from where it needs to be.” One portion of the incubator’s work is to connect budding farmers through its pop-up garlic programs that run across Victoria. These programs involved about 25 people a year and include eight workshops on include topics such as soil management and crop cultivation. Jo McMillan is currently taking part in one of the programs at a farm in Keilor. Her youngest child is about to graduate VCE, so she’s looking

Participants Thomas and Grace Azzopardi (front) with pop up garlic farm co-ordinator Liz Foran. (Damjan Janevski) 292215_06

‘‘

If you really want to care for land and have that intimate connection to country ... the pathway to becoming a conscious farmer is much harder

’’

- Tom Tanhchareun

Farmer Incubator general manager Tom Tanhchareun. Right: Pop up garlic farm co-ordinator Liz Foran

to the next chapter in her life and is hoping to sell her own produce at farmers markets. “We’re hoping to move somewhere with a bit more land, I’d like to be able to do some garlic farming on that land and get involved in selling it at farmer’s markets and conduct that as an organic crop,” Jo says. The garlic program takes participants from preparing the soil through to harvesting the garlic months later, with this year’s intake awaiting harvest season. “In the preparation and planting phase, it was hard work, we had the five of us working on a row of at least 150 metres,” Jo says.

“We had to prepare the soil and we had to plan and it doesn’t sound like much but honestly, we were planting 1000s of bulbs and it was full day’s work and we just all formed a really nice working bond so that part of it’s been really great. “It’s been really great to meet people that have a similar interest of different ages, different occupations and different things that they want to do with the knowledge and skills that they are learning through the course.” Willow Ross completed the same course last year and now runs an organic farm in Clarkefield that supplies to North Melbourne

(Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 292215

restaurant Manzé. “We’re a farm for this one restaurant so we’re almost like a little market garden set up 40 minutes out of town,” Willow says. Willow said Farmer Incubator’s program had a grassroots feel that was incredibly inclusive with a diverse community involved, and would recommend it to anyone wanting to get their hands dirty. “Farmer Incubator totally put me on the path in this direction and I’m still pretty close with a whole bunch of the people there. I got this job [With Manzé] from the program I did last year,” Willow says.

Tuesday, 9 August, 2022 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 13

ENTERTAINMENT STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Piano man launches new venue

Simon Ross is bringing late night live music to Sunbury at Piano on Evans.

up to 50 patrons, or the venue can indeed be hired out in its entirety. While it’s still early days, the signs are

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Sunbury’s live music scene has just received a huge boost, with new venue Piano on Evans opening its doors last weekend. The venue is situated in the former night club site known as ‘The Alley’ on Evans Street, providing up to 300 revellers the chance to see live pianists performing on Fridays, Saturdays and public holiday eves. Piano on Evans opens following the success of creator and resident pianist Simon Ross’s first bar venture, Piano on Chapel, which opened in late 2021. Simon couldn’t be more excited to provide residents of Melbourne’s north-west with the opportunity to see quality late night live music – and by late night, he means late night! As is the case at his bar on Chapel Street, pianists play right up until the venue’s 3am close, making these locations the latest live music offerings in Australia. Doors open at 7pm and the live music kicks off at 9pm. Piano on Evans is strictly a free entry venue and also offers patrons the chance to play on three free pool tables once inside. One of the most popular aspects of the bar is that the performer’s song list is generated by the audience themselves. Song request cards are placed throughout the room and guests have the chance to write down their favourite tunes, while the pianist on stage is governed by this list of requests. In terms of drinks, the bar offers an impressive range of cocktails, beers, wines and spirits, while pizza is available until 2am via a partnership with local restaurant Pizza Queen. Piano on Evans is proudly an all ages venue, with no adult too young or too old to enjoy its unique atmosphere. The venue is also well set up for function bookings with a separated VIP area holding

14 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 9 August, 2022

(Damjan Janevski) 292110_01)

definitely positive and Simon hopes that the local Sunbury community and surrounding areas will get behind his latest venture.

Piano on Evans is located at 67a Evans Street, Sunbury. For more information, search Piano on Evans on Facebook.

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COMMUNITY

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

Reptile Encounters Sunbury Head to Sunbury Library on Saturday, August 13 for a free reptile show by Reptile Encounters. It’s for kids aged up to 12 and runs from 10.30am until noon. Register at the link below. ■ https://bit.ly/3B5e845

Bulla Garden Club meeting Bulla Garden Club invites you to its meeting on Monday, August 15 at 10am. Head to the Old Shire Offices, on the corner of Green Street and Bulla Road. ■ Heather, 0417 510 558

Gardens for wildlife Learn more about the wildlife in your yard and learn how to attract more at this Gardens for Wildlife project event. Macedon Ranges council would like to establish a group of ongoing volunteers who are passionate about biodiversity and would like to contribute to the program roll out across the region. Make your way down to Woodend Community Centre, on Wednesday, August 17 at 6pm. ■ https://bit.ly/3vyHqon

Jacksons Creek Combined Probus Visit or become a new member of the Jackson’s Creek Combined Probus Club, gathering on the second Monday of each month at the Sunbury Football Club at 10am. Enjoy outings and meetings each month with a friendly group of men and women, and twice yearly trips away staying in cabins and caravans. ■ Doug, 5428 3317, or Teresa, 9746 3402

Footscray Community Arts Centre chief executive Daniel Santangeli is taking part in the exclusive Social Impact Leadership Australia (SILA) Program. He is pictured at Footscray Wharf. (Joe Mastroianni) 292907_01

Craft and conversation

Sunbury badminton fun

If you’re a passionate crafter and want some company, why not head down to the Sunbury Library on Mondays at noon for the craft and conversation group. The program is free and open to people aged 15 years and older. ■ https://bit.ly/39BIu2O

The Sunbury Badminton Club has a new extra playing time on Wednesdays, 10am-noon. All are welcome to attend at Clarke Oval Stadium, 49 Riddell Road, with equipment provided and coaching available. Playing for the first time is free. ■ sunburybc@gmail.com

Chill Out Sunbury

Lancefield park run relaunch

Are you between 12 and 18 years old and want to engage with other young people, participate in activities such as trivia, games, art, music, competitions, personal development and more? Chill Out Sunbury is for you. It’s free and happens every Wednesday, 3.30-5.30pm at the Sunbury Youth Centre, 51-53 Evans Street. ■ https://bit.ly/3lmVgVh

Lace up your runners and join the relaunch of Lancefield’s 5km park run, happening every Saturday at 8am at Lancefield Park. No need to be speedy - participants can go at any pace. Make your way to 62 Chauncey Street, Lancefield, and remember to register. ■ https://bit.ly/3IEDB4L

Rotary club Sunbury Ladies Badminton Club Get involved with a welcoming, fun, social group of women who have spread the word of ladies badminton since 1999. Social games are on Mondays, 9.30am-noon, and team competitions are on Thursdays, 9.30am-12.30pm at Eric Boardman Reserve, Wilsons Lane. ■ sunburylbc@gmail.com

Come have a chat Delve into deeper topics and enjoy intriguing conversations by joining the Table 8 Discussion Group. The key theme for the coming months will be kindness. The chats take place every Tuesday from 10.30-11.30am at Macedon Lounge, 40 Victoria Street, Macedon. ■ Carol, 0431 186 575

Family History and Heritage Society If you’ve got a hankering to learn more about Sunbury and even your own family history, why not check out the Sunbury Family History and Heritage Society, meeting at 1.30pm on the third Thursday of each month at the Sunbury Senior Citizens Centre, 8 O’Shanassy Street, Sunbury. ■ https://bit.ly/3jvM6oJ

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

Ladies probus The Woodlands Ladies Probus Club of Sunbury meets on the fourth Monday of each month at the Sunbury Bowling Club at 9.45 am. The club is based on fun, friendship and fellowship and enjoys monthly outings, an annual trip away and a lot of fun meetings. ■ Leonie, 0401 764 182

Sunbury Ladies Probus Club The Sunbury Ladies Probus Club meets at 9.30am on the fourth Wednesday of each month at the Sunbury Football Social Club rooms. The friendly group of women enjoy outings, film mornings, speakers and presenters, as well as special events like holidays and bus trips. New members are warmly welcomed. ■ Pat, 0433 789 754, or Sylvia, 0417 170 142

Sunbury Football Social Club at 10am. ■ 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. ■ vpm-4185@toastmastersclubs.org

lunch and make some new friends whilst you’re at it. Lunch will be prepared by the Northern Turkish Women’s Association.The lunch will be held every Wednesday from 11.30am-1pm at Homestead Community and Learning Centre, 30 Whiltshire Road, Roxburgh Park. ■ www.hume.vic.gov.au/Eventbrite/ Roxburgh-Park-Homestead-Communityand-Learning-CentreWeekly-CommunityLunch-317411976767

Probus Club Of Sunbury 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

Sunbury Seniors Sunbury Seniors meet on Mondays and Fridays at 8 O’Shanassy Street, Sunbury, from 10am-3pm. A variety of activities are offered – indoor bowls, cards, snooker, guest speakers, day excursions, subsidised lunches or just a cup of coffee and a chat. If you’re 55 or older and would like to make some new friends. ■ 0434 400 754

Join the Probus Club of Sunbury on the first Wednesday of the month at the Sunbury Football club at 9.30am. It’s a friendly men’s group open to all retired and semi-retired men. Enjoy morning tea and a guest speaker. Visitors and new members are welcome with a number of great events held each month. ■ Greg, 0417 593 035

Tai Chi for health Come along to Homestead Community and Learning Centre in Roxburgh Park for a lesson in tai chi, a low impact exercise program to build strength. Everyone is welcome. It’ll be held every Monday from 10.30-11.30am. ■ https://www.hume.vic.gov.au/Eventbrite/ Tai-Chi-for-Health-317365848797

Creative arts and fitness Banksia Gardens Community Services is running yoga and jewellery making classes every Tuesday. ■ 9309 8531

Craft and Conversation Craigieburn library is hosting a Wednesday weekly craft group from 1-3pm and everyone is welcome. Join the craft and conversation group and share your love of all things crafty. Bring your current project and make new friends. ■ humelibraries.vic.gov.au

Sunbury Combined Probus Club

Community lunch in Roxburgh Park

The Sunbury Combined Probus Club meets every fourth Thursday of the month at the

Join the Homestead Team, along with members of the community for a free

Adult education Banksia Gardens Community Services is running adult education courses including an introduction to computers and brushing up on English skills. ■ 9309 8531

Melton Men’s Group Melton Men’s Group meets every Thursday from 5-8pm at The Gap on Graham, 5 Graham Street, Melton. Focusing on Senior Men’s mental and physical wellbeing. The group invites new members to come for a cuppa and a chat, listen to guest speakers and participate in our activities including; carpet bowls, pool or table tennis. ■ https://meltonmensgroup.home.blog/

Tuesday, 9 August, 2022 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 15

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Getting cosy, for the earth

Jacob, Sienna, William and Gracie from Gisborne Primary School are rugging to take part in World Environmental Day.

Scathing spoil

By Elsie Lange

The Victorian Ombud sman has condem the state’s environ ned mental handling of the dumpin regulator over the Project (WGTP) spoil g of West Gate Tunnel including the Hi-Qua into the western suburbs, lity site at Bulla. The report, tabled by Ombudsman Debora Glass in parliament h on Tuesday, May 31, says the Environment Protection Author ity (EPA) failed to properly engage with commu groups over the nity soil accountability, which disposa l, and lacked in turn increased concern. local

(Damjan Janevski) 283453_01

The kids at Gisborn e Primary School rugged up in their got jumpers and scarves and beanies, going without power for one hour to celebra te this year’s World Environment Day. For went without heating the hour, pupils gadgets on Monda , electricity and y, June 6, helping them to understand why it is important to be mindful of the planet we live on. William, a pupil at said some classes the school, even challenged themselves to do even hour without power. more than one “It was really fun because we had heater, so we could no bring our Oodies,” William said. World Environment Day is a United Nations initiative, and this year’s theme is #OnlyOneEath , calling for “collec tive, transformative action to celebrate, protect on a global scale and restore our planet”. Held annually since 1973, it is the largest day for the environment – from Gisborne to Stockh olm, has millions of people now the event from all over the world taking part. “The reason we did electricity and help this is to save the environment,” William said. Elsie Lange

findings

It also found the EPA had approved versions of Environ earlier “The EPA, ment Management (EMPs) with “deficie Plans process, cut as with all departments in this government pressur nt information” due to the commu out the community aspects, and e “to ‘fix’ problem nity aspect, in a well as overlooking large project, is s”, as the most important aspect,” the human rights of locals. Mr O’Neill said. However, the report “Everyt hing that said the EPA’s decision the EPA has done to approve EMPs now is overshadowed by for spoil disposa their failure and “environmenta lly l sound” and didn’t was incompetence to do the basics local communities of their role.” place Ms Glass launche at significant risk. d the investigation Sunbur y residen in August 2021 followi t and founder ng of the commu Sunbur y Agains nities near three sites concerns from t Toxic Soil Facebook Marsh in Bulla, Bacchus page Chris O’Neill and “unreasonable psychosaid the EPA had put by the EPA Ravenhall, which were approved for logical stress” on community. the WGTP, after the dumping of spoil from the the discove in the project’s ground ry of PFAS chemicals water.

“This failure to provide appropriate information and communities to particip opportunities for ate when making approva l decision its s for for the Project was sites to receive the spoil unreasonable,” Ms said. Glass “It also gave no specific consideration human rights, even though human rights to very much a focus were for affected commu who were worried nities, about the impact of PFAS on themselves and their waterways and wildlife children, as well as .”

Mary-Anne Thom as MP LA BOR MEMBER FO

DELIVERING FOR

Authorised by MA Thomas,

Shop 14, Nexus Centre,

9 Goode Street, Gisborne

■ Continued:

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16 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 9 August, 2022

PUZZLES SUDOKU

No. 093

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

8 3 9 2 9

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

Division (6) US state (8) Social exclusion (9) Cavalry sword (US) (5) Web auction site (4) Occurring before (abb) (4) Shown (5) Old stringed instrument (4) Not required (8) Lacking footwear (8) Cicatrix (4) Beneath (5) Outer parts of the mouth (4) Game console (4) A second time (5) Unduly prominent (9) Weather (8) During (6)

DOWN Oral (6)

Today’s Aim: 24 words: Good 36 words: Very good

I L

4 8 6 9 3 7 5 1 2

6 2 5 1 7 3 9 8 4

4 7 3 6 9 8 5 1 2

8 1 9 2 5 4 6 7 3

7 5 8 9 4 6 2 3 1

airier, albeit, alibi, alit, arbiter, aril, artier, bail, bailer, bait, barite, bier, bile, bite, biter, brail, briar, brie, brier, brit, irate, IRRITABLE, lair, liar, liber, lira, lire, lite, litre, rail, rarebit, retail, retrial, rial, rile, rite, tail, tibia, tibiae, tibial, tier, tile, tiler, trail, trailer, trial, tribal, tribe, trier

No. 093 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

S A R S N C A P E C A P L I T E A R T E

R E C

QUICK QUIZ

1. Former Paralympic swimmer Matt Cowdrey won what seat at the 2018 state election in South Australia? 2. Who (pictured) played Amy Pond in the TV series Doctor Who?

9 4 2 7 3 1 8 5 6

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

TREES TRUES WREAK

TENANTS VERSING 8 LETTERS DAPPERER INFRARED INTEREST TOTTERED

6 LETTERS AWHILE INSULT RESALE TWISTS

11 LETTERS PARTICIPATE RESISTANCES

7 LETTERS PESKIER RAPTURE SEAWEED SERPENT

12-08-22

1 3 6 8 2 5 4 9 7

4 1 9 6 8 2 7 5 3

JERKS KARAT KNITS LEADS LEAFS LUNGE NUDGE PECAN RABBI RACER RADAR SEDAN SENSE SERVE SLANT STEER STEWS STICK TENET TINGE TRADE

3. What animal does Merida’s mother turn into in the movie Brave? 4. Along with Kailash Satyarthi, who was the co-recipient of the 2014 Nobel Peace Prize? 5. Mayor Ling Ling, Princess Kiki and Choco are characters from which kids show?

6. Who directed the 2015 film The Dressmaker? 7. 'Thankee, sai' is a common phrase found in the books of which author? 8. Whose 2020 album is called Letter To You? 9. Which singing voice has the highest pitch? 10. In what board game would you play a Queen’s Gambit? ANSWERS: 1. Colton 2. Karen Gillan 3. Bear 4. Malala Yousafzai 5. Rainbow Ruby 6. Jocelyn Moorhouse 7. Stephen King 8. Bruce Springsteen 9. Soprano 10. Chess

2 8 7 4 1 9 3 6 5

5 9 4 3 6 7 1 2 8

3 7 8 9 4 5 1 2 6

5 4 2 7 9 3 6 1 8

1 3 7 5 6 8 4 9 2

R A

4 LETTERS AKIN ALES BALD CASH CASK FEES JOIN LION NODE OVUM PONY PUNY RAPS TENS TREE 5 LETTERS ALIEN

1 7 2 5 4 8 6 9 3

5 3 9 6 1 2 4 8 7

6 9 5 1 7 3 8 2 4

8 9 6 2 1 4 3 7 5

7 8 3 4 5 9 2 6 1

2 5 1 3 7 6 9 8 4

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”.

C L

9-LETTER WORD

49 words: Excellent

8 1 4 2 9 6 7 3 5

3 2 7 4 8 5 1 6 9

9 4 8 7 2 1 3 5 6

2 6 1 3 5 4 9 7 8

7 5 3 8 6 9 2 4 1

9 6 4 8 2 1 5 3 7

Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

medium

easy

3 2 9 6 3 7

ALONE ANGST ARENA AREN’T AROMA AWARE BASIC BINDS CARTS CASED CONES CRANE DRIVE EATEN EDGES ENTER ENTRY GENIE GRUEL HAPPY INANE

, 7 6

X G

& 2 1 ( 6

10 11 12 13

$ / , ( 1

5 $ % % ,

& $ 6 $ . 6 6 + $ 3 3 $ 3 1 <

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

hard

5x5

5 3

7 8

Z H T L P V E J WY NUM

6 ( $ : ( ( '

5 6 8

2 1 (

1 3

$ 5 ( 1 7

7 5 8 2

$ 5 7 6 : $ 5 ( ( ' $ 1 $ ' 6 7 5 ( ( ( 1 * 6 7 ( 5 ( 5 7 8 5 ( ( 9 ( $ / ( 6 6 + , / ( 1 8 1 / $ 1 7 , 1 * ( 7 ( ( 5

9 6

5 $ & ( 5

1 7 $: % , 6 7 6

K I Q F A D C R S B OX G

4 1

3 LETTERS ADS AID ARE ASH ASS AWE BEE END ERA EVE FBI HER ITS LIT NAB NAP NEW NUN ONE PAN SHE UPS VIE

No. 093

, & 1 $ ) 6 5 ( $ ' 5 ( ' $ 5 3 2 8 0 1 $ < ) 9 ( , ( ( 6

hard

WORDFIT

9 ( 5 6 , 1 *

No. 093

% $ $ 5 / ( ' / . , 1 2 , 1 7 6 7 2 7 7 ( 5 ( '

DECODER

+ ( 1 5 8 ' * (

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

( 5 1 ( ' 6 $ 8 / 3 ( 6 3 ( ( 5 & . $ 6 1 7 1 ( ( 1 : 6

3 $ 5 7 , & , 3 $ 7 (

medium

. $ 5 $ 7

6 2

Obsolete email service (7) Crust formed over a cut (4) Getting rid of (8) Help (10) Corrupt (7) Sing to (8) Fibber (4) Choice (10) Unbending (8) Exert maximum effort (2,3,3) Spread from the centre (7) Reconstruct (7) Save (6) Kitchenware (4) US island territory (4)

2 3 5 6 7 8 9 15 18 19 21 23 24 27 29

ACROSS 1 4 10 11 12 13 14 16 17 20 22 25 26 28 30 31 32 33

No. 093

5 ( 6 , 6 7 $ 1 & ( 6

7 5 1 3 8

QUICK CROSSWORD

Tuesday, 9 August, 2022 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 17

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3. And which sports do they play?

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23. The 2026 Commonwealth Games are set to be held in four regional sites across which Australian state or territory? 24. Former professional cricketer Heath Davis played five Tests and 11 one day internationals for which men’s national team?

21. What were the Commonwealth Games originally called?

25. Australian track and field athlete Kelsey-Lee Barber won a 2022 World Athletics Championship gold medal in which throwing event?

22. Players from which AFL club took part in a controversial 2018 preseason training camp held on the Gold Coast?

26. Which country’s men’s 3x3 basketball team defeated Australia to win gold at the 2022 Commonwealth Games?

27. Perry, the official mascot for the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games, is a multicoloured what? 28. Which Southeast Asian country’s women’s national soccer team won the 2022 AFF Women’s Championship? 29. Australian basketballer Matthew Dellavedova signed with which NBA team in July 2022? 30. Before being traded to the Cleveland Browns, quarterback Deshaun Watson played for which NFL team?

1208

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Tuesday, 9 August, 2022 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 19

MOTOR STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

More kit a plus for Nissan X-Trail

By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring Those who thought Nissan’s long-standing popular sports utility vehicle would trail away into oblivion were mistaken. The mid-size X-Trail came to Australia more than two decades ago with little fanfare but won the hearts and wallets of those searching for soft-road versatility. Now, Nissan has announced a new fourth generation X-Trail for Down Under in the second half of 2022. In the meantime, to celebrate 20 years here, the Japanese company has refreshed the MY22 model range with the addition of a new ST+ variant. Available in two- or four-wheel drive, the ST+ slots in between the T and ST-L grades and offers around-view monitor with moving object detection, front and rear parking sensors, and satellite navigation above the ST. On test was the two-wheel drive variant selling for $34,140, plus on road costs. All-wheel drive adds $2000 to the price. There are seven-seat X-Trails but the ST+ makes do with five.

Styling Little is added over the styling of the 2017 updated X-Trail. The ST+ sports daytime running lights, body-coloured power folding / adjusting mirrors with integrated indicator and rear roof spoiler. Rolling on 17-inch alloy wheels, the ST+ could might well be any of the popular rivals in this range.

Interior Flexibility is the catchword in seating, with a second-row 40 / 20 / 40 split fold, sliding / reclining bench and creative cargo area.

Infotainment Apart from the addition of satellite navigation, carried over are Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, digital radio, Bluetooth and NissanConnect with voice recognition and control. Things get under way with intelligent key and push-button engine start and stop.

A new ST+ variant steps out on the Nissan X-Trail. (Pictures: Supplied)

Engines / transmissions The Nissan X-Trail comes with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine in manual ST grades, and with an up-specced 2.5-litre unit in other variants. The 2-litre develops 106 kW of power and 200 Nm of torque; the 2.5-litre motor 126 kW and 233 Nm. All the latter, in two or four-wheel drive, are mated with Nissan’s Xtronic constantly variable transmission with manual mode.

Safety The new X-Trail ST+ is sold on the addition of an all-round-view monitor with moving object detection, plus front and rear parking sensors. Carried over from the ST are six airbags cruise control, anti-skid braking, electronic brakeforce distribution and brake assist, forward autonomous emergency braking, forward collision warning, vehicle dynamic control and hill start assist. Unlike with some rivals, lane departure warning, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring or rear cross-traffic alert are absent until a shift up range. And there’s no adaptive cruise control.

Driving The 2.5-litre engine is offered across the range and performs efficiently without stressing the CVT (or driver).

20 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 9 August, 2022

Ride and handling are mid spectrum for this kind of car. There’s no ignoring body roll on some tight turns. Wind and road noise are par for this class of car. Nissan claims the two-wheel drive ST consumes 7.9 litres of 91 RON regular unleaded petrol per 100 kilometres on the combined urban / highway cycle. The ST+ on test clocked 11.1 litres per 100 in the city and 5.2 litres per 100 kilometres on a motorway run, which is roughly in line with the maker’s combined claim. The X-Trail carries a 60-litre tank. The boot is impressive, with room for 565 litres with the second-row seat-backs up. Fold these and the volume expands to 945 litres. A variable height floor creates a compartment with dual capacity. A space saver spare is situated under the floor. The cabin is far-from cramped, even with tall occupants in both rows. Headroom is made to match. Rear air vents are a boon on hot summer days and map pockets can be found in front seat backs, while the centre arm rest folds down to expose cup holders. While instruments and controls are where they are to be expected, they do hark back to earlier days, especially with the X-Trail’s 7-inch touchscreen. The archaic foot-operated parking brake has seen better days and the lack of auto air-con and windscreen wipers also stands out.

Summary The X-Trail comes up against the likes of the well-respected Toyota RAV4 and the Mitsubishi Outlander and is only months away from being made redundant by the next generation Nissan. On the other hand, there could be some attractive deals in the offing on soon-to-become superseded models. AT A GLANCE MODEL LINE-UP X-Trail ST 2-litre petrol manual: $30,665 X-Trail ST 2.5-litre auto: $32,665 X-Trail ST (7 seats): $34,265 X-Trail ST 4WD: $34,665 X-Trail ST+: $34,140 X-Trail ST+: 4WD $36,140 X-Trail ST-L: $38,675 X-Trail ST-L (7 seats): $40,275 X-Trail ST-L 4WD: $40,675 X-Trail Ti 4WD: $46,115 X-Trail Ti (tan leather) 4WD: $46,115 Note: These prices do not include government or dealer delivery charges. Contact your local Nissan dealer for drive-away prices.

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Star players return for the Burras Diggers Rest Bulla’s Gisborne and District Cricket Association McIntyre Cup hopes this season have received two big boosts. The Burras, who finished sixth last season hope to have kept most of their squad together, while getting back two former stars of the competition. Former coach Rasika Batepola returns to the club having coached elsewhere the last couple of years. He will be joined by Indika Massalage, who holds the highest individual score in the McIntyre Cup. He scored 266 in the one day, in his one previous season at the Burras. New Burras president Lindon Dowsett said they were excited to have both these guys returning to the club. Both played a big role in getting the club to a grand final in the 2019-20 season.

“They both played professional cricket in Sri Lanka,” he said. “Their knowledge and how we do the drills and on match day and the impact on the whole group. “Ras still lives in Diggers Rest and we’ve stayed in touch. PEGS decided they were going in another direction. We’ve been nagging him to come back and the stars aligned.” Dowsett said Batepola would help assist coach Shannon O’Keefe. O’Keefe is in his second stint as coach. He replaces Nalaka De Silva. Dowsett said they were hoping that De Silva would remain at the club as a playing capacity. He said things were looking good for the upcoming season. “We’ll have four sides again with those couple of recruits, we will come back a lot stronger,” he said. “This is my first year as president and I’m

not putting much pressure on them. We made finals last year, we would like to at least make that again.” Off field, big things are happening. The club rooms are being upgraded with Dowsett saying they were unlikely to be ready during the cricket season. He said while they would have had them for this season, but as a Diggers Rest local they were big for the whole community. Dowsett said he was looking forward to the opportunity to take on the role as president and lead the club forward. “I can’t wait for the pre-season to start,” he said. “It’s my first go at being president after being president for four to five years. “I thought it would be good to step up and I can’t wait for round one.” Rasika Batepola is back for Diggers Rest Bulla.

Tara Murray

Lions hunt for a scalp

(Shawn Smits) 203535_04

FV structures a bit clearer

By Tara Murray The Sunbury Lions are hoping to take a scalp in the final few rounds of the Ballarat Football League season. Heading into the weekend’s match with Melton, which was after deadline, the Lions only wins had come against the two teams below them on the ladder. Lions coach Travis Hodgson said getting a scalp would be nice to finish off the season. “We play Melton who is top and then Ballarat who is second and Bacchus Marsh,” he said. “When you have only beaten the two teams below us, then a couple of big scalps is the next step for us. “We want to knock over some teams, beat a side in finals contention, in premiership contention.” The Lions got their third win of the season last week against Melton South. Hodgson said the result was the continuation of a good run of form for the team. “The last five weeks have been pretty good,” he said. “We’ve had two wins there against the bottom two sides. The performances around that, Darley we lost by about a kick, East Point was not much in it and Ballarat was on the siren. “We’ve played some really good football, the numbers showed that. It was enjoyable to watch them sing the song again.” Hodgson said while they had played some good football in the last five weeks, it summed up their season. The Lions had been hoping to play finals pre-season, but that was out of the mix after dropping a number of matches early on. Hodgson said they were close, but not close enough this season. He said consistency within the playing group early hadn’t helped either. “We’ve lost seven games by under 20 points in our 10 losses” he said. “Melton did get a hold of us, but we haven’t had any other side do that. “We can’t put it down to bad luck. We’re not consistently winning games. We’ve been in games five to 10 minutes to go, but just not good enough to get that done. “It sums up our season. In all the 50-50 games, we have lost them all.” Hodgson, who is already contracted for next season, said despite the disappointing nature of the season, there were some positives. They’ve seen a number of players get opportunities, with 42 players playing seniors. Just four players have played every game, showing the up and down nature of the season. Hodgson said they do have a bit of an eye on next season. “The club and myself want to win more games going forward,” he said. “We’re on the right track. “We know that we are close. “Hopefully the group sticks pretty tight. We

Harry Power and Jake Sutton put the pressure on. (Joe Mastroianni) 291968_03

have a really solid platform to get better.” The Lions were due to face Melton at Clarke Oval on Saturday, after deadline. In other matches that were scheduled for

Saturday, Bacchus Marsh was set to face arch rival Darley, Lake Wendouree was to play East and North Ballarat and Sebastopol were to face off.

The future of some clubs in the National Premier League and FV state league competitions is a bit clearer. Football Victoria issued a release last week clarifying the promotion and relegation structure. While the structure was stipulated in the competition rules at the start of the season, several clubs had told Star Weekly they had heard conflicting reports about what might and might not happen. In the NPL competition, the bottom two teams may be relegated to NPL2 for 2023. The top two teams from the NPL2 competition may be promoted to the NPL competition, provided those clubs meet the requirements outlined in the NPL license agreement. The bottom two teams of the NPL2 competition will face a play off to stay in that division. The bottom side will face the third ranked team in the NPL3 competition and the second bottom team will face the fourth team from NPL3, with the winners likely to be in NPL2 next season. Currently Werribee City sits second bottom in NPL2, while Western United is sitting fourth in NPL3. The top two teams from NPL3 are likely to be promoted as long as they meet the necessary requirements. The bottom two teams of NPL3 may be relegated to the state league 1 competitions. The top two teams of the two state league 1 competitions may be promoted to the NPL3 competition. In state league 1 north-west Caroline Springs George Cross sits top. In state league 2 and state league 3, the top two sides in each competition may be promoted, while the bottom side in each competition may be relegated. While teams may be promoted from state league 4, there is set to be no relegation. This means Spring Hills won’t be relegated. Vaccines in state league 5 will be filled by new team entries. In the women’s competition, no teams are set to be relegated in the NPLW competition. The top four teams of the Victorian Premier League Women’s competition may be promoted in the NPLW competition. The top three from the two state league 1 competitions could be promoted in the VPL. Spring Hills currently sits third.

Tuesday, 9 August, 2022 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 21

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Hall pipped for medal once again in 1500 final It was a thrilling burst to the finish line in the women’s 1500 metre final at the Commonwealth Games, with former Sunbury Little Athletics runner Linden Hall beaten to bronze by 0.3 of a second. Scotland’s Laura Muir took out the gold medal ahead of Northern Ireland’s Ciara Mageen, but it was the race for bronze that had Australian fans’ attention. While Hall missed out on a medal, Australia still made it onto the podium with fellow Victorian Abbey Caldwell coming around the outside in the final moments, with a time of 4:04.79. Hall, who also finished well, was next across the line with a time of 4:05.09. Jessica Hull was the third Australian in the race, finishing in eighth. For 31-year-old Hall, it’s the same result as 2018 in the Gold Coast, just missing out on a Commonwealth Games medal for the second time. Last year, the Olympian made history when

she became the first Australian woman to break four minutes in the 1500-metre, running 3:59.67. Hall spoke to Seven Network after qualifying for the final on Friday night in 4:14.08. “I was getting a bit clipped and choppy at the back, I was like I’m stuck on the outside so why not go,” Hall told Seven Network. “It was a pretty nice progression, five people going through, [it was] nice to go through the motions even if it wasn’t crazy fast. “It’s nice to know what you’re in for coming back on Sunday.” She said she thought she had recovered well after the World Athletics Championships in Oregon last month. Hall made the semi finals, but missed out on progressing through to the final. “We were pretty lucky in our program in that we got one of the biggest breaks of any of the events, so [we were] definitely lucky in that regard,” she said. Speaking of Caldwell, who is 10 years her

junior, she jokingly described her teammate as “my little child”. “She’s doing so great and I’m so proud of her,” Hall said. Hall began her athletics career in Sunbury as a child, competing at Sunbury Little Athletics while attending Riddells Creek Primary School. She told Star Weekly last year she “really got serious” about competing in grades five and six at school before she attended Braemar College in the Macedon Ranges. Hall scored her personal best at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021, running 3:59.01. Elsie Lange

Linden Hall

Stars outshine Bulldogs in hard fought semi-final By Tara Murray The future is bright for Gisborne despite its season came to an end in the Essendon District Football League women’s division 1. The Bulldogs were outplayed early in their semi final with the Essendon Doutta Stars on Saturday, with the Stars leading by 29 points at half time. The second half was a lot closer with the Bulldogs putting the pressure back on the Stars, but it wasn’t enough. The Stars won, 7.13 (55)-3.3 (21). Bulldogs coach Jason Peak had mixed feelings about the result. “It’s a little disappointing the season has ended,” he said. “But I thought we competed really well, but were probably just one or two people short on the day. “They [the Stars] wasted a few opportunities and they gave us an even break. I thought they were a bit more competitive than us in the first quarter. “We probably lacked a couple of structured things in the second quarter and that got them a couple of goals. “Other than that, I think it was fairly even.” Peak said he was pleased with the second half as they pushed the Stars and said the group should be proud of how they played. He said he wouldn’t be surprised if the Stars won the premiership. The Bulldogs side contained five players who had come up from their under-18.5s side. With the side not in finals and the Bulldogs looking to add a few more players for depth, the younger girls stepped up. “Claire [Bourdon] has been out for eight weeks now with a dislocated shoulder,” Peak said. “[Leading goal kicker] Charlotte [Noonan] couldn’t play which was a bit disappointing. “It gave an opportunity to a few under-18s. We said however many spots we had spare, the under-18s who wanted to come and train with us during the week were going to be given an opportunity. “I thought all five of our under-18s played extremely well.” It was another youngster who was the standout for the Bulldogs in Ruby Watts. Still able to play in the under-18s, she has played seniors all year, and was the Bulldogs best in the final. Peak said she’s a very good talent and said she may or may not play at a higher level next year. Overall, he said the season, their first

Bridie Collings tries to break a tackle.

(Joe Mastroianni). 292754_05

complete one in the EDFL, had been one of improvement. “It’s progress,” he said. “Last year we wouldn’t have made finals and we’ve now played our first final in the EDFL, we should be proud of that as a group. “It’s a stepping stone and hopefully we can go a bit future next year.

22 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 9 August, 2022

“Our under-18s have done well. Our under-16s play in a grand final next week. We think we’ll have a squad of about 30 18s, so they’ll be pushing senior players to play seniors next year. The Stars will face Strathmore in the preliminary final. The winner of the match will face Greenvale in the grand final.

(Supplied)

Cats are in the box seat Macedon moved back into the Riddell District Football League top five without even stepping onto the ground on Saturday. The Cats along with Woodend-Hesket are fighting for the final spot in the top five, with two points separating the teams entering the final round. The Cats got four points at the weekend for the bye, which moved them back above the Hawks which lost to Wallan. The Hawks entered Saturday’s match with Wallan in fifth spot and were keen to upset the Magpies having had a draw with them earlier in the year. The Magpies started the better of the two teams and built the lead to 31 points at half time. The Hawks reduced that slightly in the third quarter, but the Magpies were able to do enough in the last to get a 13.10 (88)-8.3 (51) win. Corey Grindlay kicked four goals for the Magpies. Tayte Pears kicked three for the Hawks, with Tobi Duff-Tytler named the Hawks best. The result means the Hawks have to beat Romsey in the final round and then hope the Cats lose to bottom side, the Western Rams. All the other matches on Saturday were one sided. Diggers Rest controlled the game from start to finish against Lancefield, winning 22.17 (149)-8.0 (48). Marcus Calvaresi kicked five goals for the Burras in a best on ground performance. For the Tigers, Thomas Atwell and Brendan Crowhurst kicked three goals each. The Western Rams were no match for Riddell in the Bombers 24.21 (165)-1.2 (8) win. Andrew Duhau kicked five goals for the Bombers, with Josh Grabham named the Bombers best. For the Rams, Alex Sweet was named their best. In the other match, Romsey beat Melton Centrals, 17.12 (114)-6.5 (41). Jack Jedwab kicked five goals for the Redbacks. Adam Tomac was the Centrals best in their final game for the season, with a bye in the final round. Tara Murray

Lapses in concentration costs Sunbury Lapses in concentration proved costly for the Sunbury Jets in the Big V women’s state championship semi-finals on Sunday. Hosting game one of the best-of-three series against the Bulleen Boomers, the Jets showed when they played well they can beat anyone. But unable to keep it up for four quarters, the Jets were made to pay, losing 79-70. Jets coach Ben Draper said they were their worst enemy in the game. “We started out well,” he said. “But our biggest problem was in lapses in judgement and decisions and they were able to capitalise. “We were able to make a comeback and we nearly got them, we got it back to six.” Draper said he was proud of the group how they finished the game, having been down by as many as 20 points at one stage.

He said the match summed up much of how their season has gone. “That is us,” he said. “We have to do a better job of staying stronger for four quarters. “To be 20 down and then only trail by six is a tough effort. If we can string it together we will get there.” Draper said you could look at a number of reasons why they drop momentum, but said in the end they weren’t good enough and they don’t make any excuses. Maria Jespersen top scored with 24 points, while Emily Coon and Bethany Theodore also scored double figures. The Jets’ hopes of progressing through the grand final were dealt a blow before the semi-final series started. Ally Stewart, who returned for college midway through the

season, was ruled not to have played enough games to qualify for finals. Draper said Stewart is their best shooter. The Jets will be back on court on Saturday night in game two at Bulleen and if needed on Sunday in game three. Draper said nothing changes for them. “At the start of the week we had to win two games to get into a grand final,” he said. “At the start of next week [this week] nothing changes, we still have to win to win two games, “It puts the pressure back on Bulleen. If we can stay together for at least three quarters, we should be able to get the job done.” The McKinnon Cougars led the other semi final series against Wyndham, 1-0. Tara Murray

Jets ahead in semi-final

(Basketball Victoria)

Sports shorts FV Gisborne’s hold against the Keilor Wolves continued on Saturday in the FV state league 4 west competition. One of two teams to beat the Wolves this season, the Sky Blues did it for a second time in the catch up which was held in Sunbury. The Sky Blues left it late, but got the three points in the 4-3 win and dent the Wolves championship hopes in the process. The Sky Blues remain in fourth spot. Sunbury United had the weekend off due to the catch up round.

By Tara Murray The Sunbury Jets took lessons learned in the previous week to take a one nil lead against the Hume City Broncos in their Big V men’s state championship semi-final series. Having played each other in the final round of regular season, the two local council rivals were back on court together on Saturday night. The Broncos hosted game one of the best-of-three semi final series, but it was the minor premiers in the Jets, who got the upper hand, winning 82-68. The Jets jumped out of the blocks and led by 12 points at quarter time. The Broncos reduced that to seven at the main break. A 36-22 third quarter would be the match winner for the Jets, who were able to hold on to win 82-68. Jets coach John White said the chance to play the same team at least three, possibly four times in a row was valuable. The Jets won the final regular season game by one point. “There were a few things we worked on from last week’s game,” he said. “Some things we didn’t do well. “We knew what to do with the personnel. We were able to get a good look some some their guys and things were fresh in our minds. “The little things that they do well. You could really hone in on those small things.” White said he was happy with about a quarter and half of their game, meaning there’s still plenty of room for improvement. He said the game had been played along the lines they thought it would. “We expected it to be a physical game, which it was and we handled it really well,” he said. “Next week we’re expecting some more of the same. There’s a bit of feeling out of last night. “We’ll make the adjustments we need to deal with some of that.” Ish Sanders had his usual impact with 24 points, playing all but one minute of the game. It was the performance of Maxwell Barkeley that was the standout, who top scored with 32 points. “He thrives in these situations, he’s a big game player,” White said. “He has found his spot playing with the local players. “He came up big and his confidence is up which will only be positive for the rest of the season.” The Jets will host game two and if needed game three at Boardman Stadium. White said they’re keen to play in front of their home crowd and give them some reward for all the support they’ve given throughout the season. The Jets youth league men’s side kept their

Ben Draper

EDFL Rupertswood’s finals hopes will come down to the final round of the Essendon District Football League division 1 season. The Sharks sit a game and percentage outside the top four after an 8.16 (64)-4.9 (33) win against Moonee Valley. The fifth placed Sharks face the fourth placed West Coburg in the final round. The Sharks need a win by a bit to overtake the Burgers on percentage. Meanwhile, the Sunbury Kangaroos lost to Airport West, 14.11 (95)-5.5 (35) on Saturday.

RDNL Riddell all but sealed a finals spot in the Riddell District Netball League on Saturday. Facing the Western Rams, who they are fighting for the fifth and last finals spot, the Bombers had a big win, winning 61-28. The win had the Bombers a game and big percentage ahead of the Rams heading into the final round. Woodend-Hesket beat Wallan to all but seal a double chance, while Melton Centrals beat Romsey and Diggers Rest beat Lancefield.

Ish Sanders had a big game on Saturday night.

(Supersport Images)

season alive in division 2. On Saturday night the Jets lost to the Keysborough Cougars, 98-82. They were back on court Sunday in an elimination final, beating the Melton

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Thoroughbreds, 101-79. Josh O’Connell top scored with 24 points. White said it was good for the boys to keep their season alive, having struggled with injuries the last few weeks.

Web: starweekly.com.au Sunbury & Macedon Ranges Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

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