Star Weekly - Sunbury Macedon Ranges - 21st March 2023 by Star Weekly

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A furry rescue Over 50 cats and kittens have been rescued from a flood-affected property in Central Victoria. The not-for-profit Edgar’s Mission rescued the felines in late February after being called to the property for an alpaca and sheep rescue. Edgar’s Mission founder Pam Ahern said they were given an opportunity to save as many felines as they could before they would be killed. “We never, in our wildest imagination anticipated such a situation, however these were animals in urgent need who had come into our sphere of being,” Ms Ahern said. “We could not walk away from their suffering and imminent death without giving [the rescue] a go.” Ms Ahern said it took the team three days to complete the rescue and they have since been working to get the felines microchipped and desexed. “They are beautiful,” she said. “While underweight, flea and parasite-riddled, which has been addressed, they are otherwise OK [and] many of the females are pregnant, some heavily so.” Since the rescue, Edgar’s Mission has been reaching out to rescue groups and individuals to help by adopting or donating. Zoe Moffatt

Edgar’s Mission founder Pam Ahern with the rescued cat and her kittens. (Damjan Janevski) 324114_03

Social housing stand-off By Zoe Moffatt Macedon Ranges council’s intention to lease a Lancefield site for social housing has divided residents. Council intends to lease the Lancefield site to Wintringham Housing Limited for 20 years. It is proposed the five existing units on the land be demolished and 12 social housing units over 3 and 5 Noel Street be built. Council received eight submissions on the proposal, with submitters able to address councillors on March 15.

A submitter, Lenka Thompson, said she works in implementing social and affordable housing and is in full support of the proposal. Ms Thompson said she has witnessed first hand the positive difference councils can make to help progress social and affordable housing. “I certainly realise it is not council’s main duty or … responsibility … so I commend this report to you all.” Ms Thompson said she saw a couple of key issues and wanted council to extend the lease from 20 years to 50 years and have the land secured for affordable housing in the future.

“We’ve been in a housing crisis for long enough to know that it’s not going away anytime soon,” she said. Residents against the proposal said they were concerned about the lack of infrastructure in Lancefield. “To think that this limited infrastructure could possibly support those more vulnerable in our community is mind boggling,” one resident said. “Public transport is limited, almost non-existent. Without a large supermarket for basic needs, I don’t know how these new community members could shop and access

the things they need.” Another submission questioned where the current occupants of the five existing units will live after the demolition of the units. “Given there is nothing regarding this in the plan, one can only assume that the current occupants are to find new accommodation for themselves before demolition begins.” According to the proposal in the meeting agenda, the lease will begin on May 1, 2023 and end 20 years after an occupancy permit for the works is issued. A decision on the lease will be made at a future council meeting.

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Valentine’s at Hanging Rock

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

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Anti-vax leaflet slammed ‘‘

Jessica Micallef

By Jessica Micallef

Let’s not let

McEwen MP Rob Mitchell is urging false lies Mr Mitchell said only Sunbury residents to “tear contacted him about Sunbury residents had be done spread as being facts up and throw anti-vaccination leaflets away” to combat potenti . It’s was concerned peoplethe leaflets so far, but he misinformation ally “deadly that may appear their letterbox. in surrounding areas in dangerou ”. would also receive s He said people should them. - Rob Mitchell Mr Mitchell said residen consult a doctor The leaflet also has ts had notified him or medical last Monday (Februa leaflets is from address to the organis a QR code and a web vaccinations professional when it came to ry 1) about anti-vaccinatio American-based leaflets about the ation’s site. Mr Mitche and medica n IDoNotComp compan y, COVID-19 vaccine urged ly, which labels ll people not to scan “We don’t know who l treatment. that had global been dropped in their the code. these people are and movement that oppose itself as a “It’s for your own letterbox. that is why safety,” he said. “It we have medical experts The leaflet, seen by s COVID-19 from regulations. comes Star Weekly, stated an American-base ,” he said. “They have decade should “avoid the people d organisation which s “It’s danger COVID you’d think wouldn to understand these in training and learning ’t be so callous and and claims the “vaccin vaccine at all costs” People will ous that people are getting this. things. They are the to make a stateme read e could potentially people nt like ‘most people stupid to talk to. more deadly than be he said. “We are this and wonder if it’s true,” risk the virus”. have no of dying of COVID seeing “Let’s not let false Mr Mitchell believe -19’. out … it’s all garbage these theories being put lies spread as being “This from a s the sender of It’s dangerous. facts. . Tear the leaflet up the put it in the bin.” and than 440,000 country where tragically more “What we have achieve deaths have been recorde d in Victoria … d.” Mr Mitchell said an amazing job is more work needed to people spreadi and the last thing we need is ng theories.”

’’

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

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

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

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

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Residential waste fee voted in By Zoe Moffatt Hume council has voted to introduce a flat-fee for waste services at residential properties, with a decision on commercial and industrial properties moved to a later meeting. In the meeting on Tuesday, March 14, it was decided a flat-fee methodology would be used when the waste services charge is implemented in the 2023-24 financial year. Cr Carly Moore said the flat-fee model ensures residents will pay the same irrespective

of their property size. “For me, it means that if our residents are receiving exactly the same service then they should be paying exactly the same amount,” she said. The council decided to separate the decision on the waste fee for commercial and industrial properties after it was discussed how much these properties would be charged under the capital improved value (CIV) method originally proposed by council officers. Cr Naim Kurt said under the CIV model,

the highest valued commercial and industrial property in Hume would pay $70,000 per year in public waste fee. “The highest [rate paying property] in Hume is a commercial property, which lists at $225 million. And so under the CIV model for a public waste fee, they’ll be paying $70,000 per year in public waste fee,” he said. “If we move to a flat base model, they’ll be paying $214.” A decision will be made at a future meeting on how commercial and industrial property will be charged for waste services.

Cr Karen Sherry said the waste services charge only achieves cost recovery and does not generate a surplus or profit for council. She said council has faced increased costs delivering waste and resource recovery driven by changes including the China Sword Policy and the Victorian Government’s Municipal and Industrial waste levy. “The lovely [Environment Protection Authority] levy which has gone right up, which has been passed on to us in the usual cost shifting fashion,” Cr Sherry said.

New youth space to open in Kyneton Teens living in Kyneton will be able to chill out at Macedon Ranges council’s next youth night from next month. Starting April 26, the sessions, called Wednesday Knights, will run every second Wednesday and be held at the portable behind the council’s Kyneton office. Council said the free, supervised sessions will be open to secondary school-aged children with games and food provided. Mayor Annette Death said the need for additional youth spaces was identified in discussions between council and young people, which was also used to inform the youth services 10 year strategy. “It’s important that we keep young people engaged through a range of initiatives, like this new youth space in Kyneton,” she said. “I encourage people to visit council’s website for more diverse, inclusive youth activities to come throughout autumn and beyond.” The council will be running additional youth activities, including an art installation on wheels, an open mic night and open-air cinema night. The art installation, called the Fungi Town caravan, is led by artist Kathy Holowko and will visit Kyneton Town Hall on Wednesday, April, 12 and the Romsey Hub on Thursday April, 13. The workshops will run for two hours and it is essential to book, council said. Details: mrsc.vic.gov.au/Youth and mrsc.vic.gov.au/arts-events

Garry Templar with his 1931 Ford Tourer. (Damjan Janevski) 323524_05

Swap meet, car show to pack ’em in More than 200 cars will pack into the Lancefield football oval on Sunday, April 16 for the annual Lancefield swap meet and car show. The event, which is in its 28th year, is expected to attract thousands of motoring enthusiasts. The meet will be open from 7am to about 2pm, with judging on the main oval starting at 11am. Show facilitator Pam Choate said the day is great for the community with stall holders coming from across Victoria, South Australia and New South Wales.

“It’s been running for 28 years, and we’ve only missed [two] because of Covid-19,” she said. “It made a resurgence again last year and has come back just as strong as ever.” Ms Choate said they are expecting over 3000 people to attend the event, with stalls selling something for everyone. “We have some indoor stalls which have lots of collectors items … the outdoor stalls will all sell car parts, bric-a-brac, some will have clothes and preserves like jam,” she said. There will also be food available to purchase

and coffee vans. “It’s also great for the town … people will always say [they] didn’t realise it is such a beautiful little town,” Ms Choate said, Entry on the day is $6 per person and there will be five judging categories, including best street rod, best vintage car, best classic car, best motorcycle and best overall vehicle at the show. There will also be a $200 prize for best overall vehicle. Details: https://bit.ly/3J8mjzf

Zoe Moffatt Zoe Moffatt

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Road upgrade helps the disabled By Zoe Moffatt Local people with disabilities are working to help with the Sunbury Road upgrade due to a partnership between Major Road Projects Victoria (MRPV) and a disability support provider. Support provider Distinctive Options Pathways, MRPV and construction partner Winslow, are providing supported employment through generating work to deliver news on the Sunbury Road upgrade. As part of this partnership, more than 1000 hours of paid work each year will be provided for local people with a disability. MRPV director Dipal Sorathia said they

are proud to be working with Distinctive Options to provide training and employment opportunities. “As the Distinctive Options Pathways crew work with us, we’re watching their confidence grow as they interact with the project team socially and during their work duties,” she said. “I have no doubt this experience will set these individuals up for future opportunities in the workplace.” The partnership will initially provide work for 12 adults to deliver construction newsletters and notices with information of the upgrades to hundreds of properties. MRPV said in total more than 100,000

construction notices will be delivered. Supported employee Peter said he loves getting out into the community and meeting new people. “[People in the community] appreciate it,” he said. “Sometimes you talk to them, sometimes you hand it to them at the mailbox.” “I like coming to work because I like meeting good friends of mine – they’re like part of my family.” Distinctive Options, which is based in Sunbury, currently employs more than 18 people and MRPV said this project will enable them to hire and train more staff, while giving existing staff permanent long-term

employment. So far Distinctive Options supported employment staff have spent more than 250 work hours delivering construction notices to areas in and around Sunbury. The Sunbury road upgrade is set to improve traffic flow and travel times by adding a lane in each direction and replacing roundabouts with traffic lights at Francis Boulevard and Lancefield Road. The project, which is expected to be complete in 2025, also includes a new bridge over Jacksons Creek, an extra lane in each direction and a new walking and cycling path along the route. Details: https://bit.ly/3Jwy97F

Sustainable homes open their doors

Jeb Summers (front), Mel O’Neill, Ronnie Paoly, Ian Pompa, Ron Blackmore and Graeme Williams ahead of the Tri Services Cup. (Damjan Janevski) 323350_03

Local teams seek Tri Services Cup East Sunbury and Taylors Lakes football clubs will battle it out for the Tri Services Cup next month. The annual fundraiser is organised by Save Our Services Australia, which has teamed up with the Austin Hospital to provide assistance to ex-service personnel exiting the hospital’s post traumatic stress disorder ward. Save Our Services vice president Melinda O’Neill said the charity supports people who have mental health issues as a direct result of

their service. “The program is designed to engage our clients with a social program within the community … this avoids them from coming home and isolating themselves,” she said. The event will feature a family fun day with market stalls, food vans, children’s activities and a visit from guest speaker Dustin Fletcher, ahead of the football match. Ms O’Neill said Fletcher will be at the club for a few hours doing meet and greets, with

the public encouraged to come down for a photo and a chat. Julie-Anne Finny, the mother of a soldier who took his own life, and a leader in fighting for the Royal Commission on Defence and Veteran Suicide, will also be at the fundraiser. The Tri Services Cup is on Saturday, April 22, from 11am to 5pm at East Sunbury Football Club.

Macedon Ranges home owners will open their doors to the public on Sunday, March 19 for Sustainable House Day 2023. Sustainable House Day is driven by Renew, a not-for-profit organisation that works to inspire and enable people to live sustainably in their homes and communities. Renew chief executive Dr Fiona Gray said the organisation wants to inspire Australians to make their homes more sustainable. “Sustainable House Day is dedicated to showcasing Australia’s most inspiring sustainable homes,” she said. “While providing information for all Australians motivated to take the next step on their green-home journey, no matter who they are, or where they live.” The program, which was established in 2001, is a month-long hybrid event which shares expert guidance on sustainability from architects, designers, and builders. The main event features eight free online sessions bringing together experts and homeowners on ways to make homes more sustainable. Discussions will include charging electric vehicles, purchasing land, building on a budget, and as a community collective, as well as designing and planning for ageing. Along with these discussions, community partners will be hosting their own events, including; in-person house tours, factory walk-throughs, practical demonstrations, and panel discussions. Details: https://sustainablehouseday. com/ Zoe Moffatt

Zoe Moffatt

One in five adults cannot name a heart attack symptom Monash University-led research found one in five Australian adults cannot name one heart attack symptom, with heart-related hospital admissions in Hume higher than the national average. The research project examined awareness during and after a 2010-2013 campaign to increase knowledge about heart attack warning signs. Professor and lead author Janet Bray said the findings were alarming and new strategies were needed to ensure Australians knew what to do if they experienced symptoms.

“We need the public to know heart attack symptoms and to call an ambulance,” she said. “Calling an ambulance allows treatment to start immediately and ensures that they can be taken to a hospital that offers the right treatment.” According to the Heart Foundation, heart related hospital admissions in 2012-16 in Hume were 48.4 per 10,000 people compared to the national average of 42.3 per 10,000 people. With coronary heart disease mortality in 2012-20, was 67.9 per 100,000 people in Hume compared to the national average of 63.8 and

4 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 21 March, 2023

the state average of 60.2 per 100,000 people. Meanwhile, the Macedon Ranges heart related hospital admissions between 2012-16 was 28.2 per 10,000 people. Hume has also been named as one of the eight municipalities included in the Heart Matters education program providing free heart health education sessions until March 31, 2023. The latest research also found awareness that chest pain is a heart attack symptom fell from 80 per cent in 2010 to 57 per cent in 2020. “Every Australian should be able to recognise

heart attack symptoms and the need to respond quickly and call triple-0 for an ambulance,” Ms Bray said. “Every minute, more heart muscle dies and the chance of complications like cardiac arrest increases.” Heart Foundation reported, 157 people in Australia are hospitalised daily due to heart attacks, with twice as many men experiencing a heart attack. Details: https://bit.ly/3JB7ZAO Zoe Moffatt

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A pioneer, but not ours

Grants aiming to get groups back on track

By Zoe Moffatt

Sunbury and Macedon Ranges not-for-profit organisations are encouraged to apply for Metro Trains’ Back on Track Community Grants program. With a total grant pool of $100,000, applications are now open for $5000, $10,000 or $20,000 grant opportunities from the public transport network. Projects or initiatives must support wellness, education and support services within the local community. Last year, Metro’s grants program helped community organisations including cohealth and the Les Twentyman Foundation to implement important mental health initiatives. Over the past four years, Metro’s community grants program has provided $360,000 to community organisations. Metro Train chief executive Raymond O’Flaherty said the grants can make a significant difference to local communities. “We know mental health continues to be an ongoing challenge for our community which is why Metro’s community grants program is supporting not-for-profit organisations implement some important initiatives,” he said. Applications are now open and close on Tuesday, April 11. Successful applicants will be announced in June. Details: www.metrotrains.com.au/ community-grants

Hedley Elliott at the Evans Street sign. (Damjan Janevski) 323832_01

replacement signage is being installed,” the spokesperson said. Mr Elliot said he would like to see the sign

mention that George Evans was part of the party that founded the settlement that became Melbourne.

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A Sunbury resident has spotted an error on the town’s Evans Street sign . Hedley Elliott said he was walking by the sign about two weeks ago when he stopped to read it. “I just walked past, for no reason at all and had a look at the sign,” he said. “I knew it was incorrect.” The sign, which currently reads “George Samuel Evans, Member of the Barkly and O’Shanassy Ministries and Postmaster General in 1851,” includes facts about prominent barrister George Samuel Evans instead of George Evans who was part of the settlement that became Melbourne. While both men were born in England, George Samuel Evans established himself in New Zealand, before leaving for Victoria in 1853. After living in Melbourne for 12 years he returned to New Zealand in 1865 and died three years later. George Evans, who the street is named after, came to Melbourne in 1835 and settled in Sunbury along with William Jackson in July 1836. The state library recognises this history on its website. “George Evans and his party founded the settlement that became Melbourne on 29 August 1835, after travelling on the ship Enterprize from Launceston to Port Phillip,” the state library said. George Evans eventually settled at Emu Bottom and built the homestead, where Mr Elliot lives. Mr Elliott said he contacted a councillor about the error when he noticed it. A Hume council spokesperson said members of the community have brought it to council’s attention that there are minor errors on some of the Sunbury Heritage signs. “These errors are being rectified and

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Family violence rises in Ranges By Zoe Moffatt Family violence incidents increased by 10 per cent in the Macedon Ranges in 2022, new crime data reveals. Crime Statistics Agency data, released Thursday, March 16, reveals there were 461 recorded family violence incidents in the Macedon Ranges in the 12 months to December 31, 2022, up from 419 incidents 12 months prior. Breach of family violence order was the top crime offence in Macedon Ranges, with 267

offences recorded in 2022, compared to 209 in the previous year. Victoria Police deputy commissioner of regional operations Rick Nugent Victoria Police would continue concentrating on family violence. He said family violence investigation unit detectives focused on known family violence perpetrators and victims daily to detect offending and support those impacted. Overall, there were 2032 total offences recorded in 2022 in the region, compared to 2024 offences the previous year.

Crime in Kyneton increased by 80 offences, Woodend increased by 51 offences, Riddells Creek increased by 41 offences, and Macedon increased by 15 offences, while crime recorded in Gisborne decreased by 59 offences. Sunbury’s crime rate fell in 2022, with the town recording 2236 offences, compared to 2472 offences in 2021. The reduction of offences recorded in Sunbury follows a declining trend, with offences recorded currently at its lowest since 2013. Hume Acting Inspector Shayne Kerley said

Hume is the safest it’s been since 2013 when the Crime Statistics Agency started recording statistics. “This is a result of targeted patrolling and operations … as well as community engagement through our Neighbourhood Policing framework,” he said. “Our vision is to continue to drive down crime further and make Hume one of the safest municipalities in Victoria. “The community can help us do that by simply locking your doors, windows, garages, sheds, cars and chaining up your trailers.”

Beauty under spotlight The beauty of the Macedon Ranges in autumn will once again be in the spotlight next month when council hosts the award-winning Autumn Festival. The annual festival, which won the 2022 Victorian Tourism Award for Festivals & Events, will run throughout April, celebrating the food, wine, arts and culture scene in the Macedon Ranges. Mayor Annette Death said locals and visitors should start planning their itineraries now, and discover something new in the Macedon Ranges. “We really are spoilt for choice when it comes to the shire’s diversity of local wares, the producers behind them and our natural surroundings,” she said. “The Autumn Festival puts the spotlight on all of these.” The festival will include the return of previous favourites, including First Nations events, an autumn gardens trail, a pie and tart trail, an edgy vege trail, the gardener puppets and a range of artistic workshops.

Cr Death 39 businesses are participating in the pie and tart trail and will all be putting up a unique pie or tart for the event. “Call it pie-in-the-sky thinking, but we believe the 2023 Macedon Ranges Autumn Festival’s Pie and Tart Trail could be the biggest of its kind in Australia/the Southern Hemisphere,” she said. “Based on some desk top-crust research, the closest similar trail we could sauce was the 2022 Pie Time trail in New South Wales’ Southern Highlands, which boasted 37 outlets. We challenge anyone to meat us on our claim!” With almost 15,000 people visiting the festival in 2022, the council said the event provides a welcome boost to the local economy. The festival will go on to represent Victoria at the national Tourism Awards in Sydney later this month. Details: http://www.visitmacedonranges. com/autumn-festival/ Zoe Moffatt

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‘‘

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Woodend autumn festival event officer Nicole Pietruschka. (Damjan Janevski) 323727_03

A Kyneton woman has been named as a finalist for the 2023 AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award for her work in providing first aid training. Grace Larson created the Sisterhood Project in the aim to break the distance and affordability barriers for parents in rural areas. Ms Larson said being named as a finalist means the issue is being acknowledged. “It means acknowledgement of an important issue regarding reducing childhood mortality in rural Victoria and a platform to be able to raise awareness of this,” she said. “We know that children in rural areas are twice as likely to die than metropolitan counterparts so we want to address this issue.” Aiming to curb these mortality rates, the project provides free access to essential paediatric first aid training for vulnerable groups. Ms Larson said if she was to win the award, the money would be spent on finding places for young rural mothers to attend First Aid and CPR workshops. “We know that people in lower social demographic groups are less likely to have access to this training due to financial pressures,” she said. “We will address these barriers to facilitate more education in our rural communities,” she said. Ms Larson, who is being celebrated for her leadership along with four other Victorian women, said she was surprised when she got the call that she was a finalist. “It’s been a very humbling experience as there are some great finalists in Victoria, all very inspirational and all with great projects.” The state government said the winner will be announced in April and will receive $15,000 for their project. She will also represent Victoria at the

Grace Larson. (Clair Derwort)

National Award in September, with the national winner receiving a further $20,000 towards their project, the government said. Zoe Moffatt

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NEWS

Briefs

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Sunbury siege A man has been taken to hospital following an alleged dispute in Sunbury on March 10. Officers were called to reports of a dispute at Magdalene Court just befovre 11am, and forced entry to the home about 7pm, as the armed man had barricaded himself inside the property. Circumstances surrounding the incident are yet to be determined and investigations remain ongoing.

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Operation Arid More than 50 traffic offences were recorded in the Macedon Ranges and Hume as part of Victoria Police’s Labour Day long weekend police operation. In the Macedon Ranges, there were 33 speeding offences, five unregistered vehicles, two drink driving offences, two drug driving offences and one unlicensed driver. In Hume there were two drink driving offences, two speeding offences, three seatbelt offences, one mobile phone offence, and two unregistered vehicles.

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Woodend art group members Robyn Leeder and Margaret Morgan Watkins with their artworks. (Damjan Janevski) 324087_02

Woodend Easter of art

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Woodend art group is holding its annual Easter art market at Woodend railway station on Saturday, April 8, to Monday, April 10. The market will run daily from 10am to 4pm and about 70 group members will be selling their artwork. Woodend art group member Margaret Morgan Watkins said the market has been running for over 12 years, and usually attracts several hundred visitors each year. “People come up from Mornington Peninsula, from Bendigo, Geelong, and Melbourne as well,” Ms Watkins said. “After COVID everyone is so enthused to get back to things.”

Ms Watkins said the group will be selling artwork that is new and old, as well as ceramics, jewellery, glass work, cards and more. There will also be daily door prizes and a gold coin donation is encouraged for people who can afford it. Ms Watkins said you need to be a member of the group to sell your artwork, but people can contact them in regards to membership and requirements. Details: http://www.woodendartgroup.org. au/

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

Zoe Moffatt

YOUR NEW CAREER ... starts here PRINT AND ONLINE SALES EXECUTIVE

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Star Weekly seeks an enthusiastic sales executive to work across our print, digital, social and online platforms. Star Weekly is an independently owned company which prides itself on its long history of community experience but also its investment in the future. The successful applicant will need to possess good people skills to enable them to meet with local businesses to sell solutions through our advertising platforms to help promote their business. 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: Advertising Sales Manager, Mandy Clark salescareers@starnewsgroup.com.au

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Tuesday, 21 March, 2023 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 7

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Local efforts shaving lives A number of northern and western Melbourne residents have shaved, cut or coloured their hair as part of the 25th annual World’s Greatest Shave event. Matthew Sims spoke to a number of local participants standing in solidarity with more than 135,000 people living with blood cancer across Australia.

yndham resident Joe Fraietta lost his father Agazio about six months ago after a five-year battle with myelodysplasia and later acute leukaemia. Myelodysplasia is a group of cancers which affect the growth and development of healthy blood cells in bone marrow. The father of two said while his father received a bone marrow transplant and went into remission, he was later diagnosed with acute leukaemia and died in an intensive care unit last August. He has shaved his facial hair and cut his hair in memory of his father and to help raise awareness of blood cancer as part of the 25th annual World’s Greatest Shave event, having raised more than $1100 for the cause. Shave Week took place across the country from Wednesday, March 15 to Sunday, March 19, with thousands of people shaving, cutting and colouring their locks to raise critical funds to support fellow Australians impacted by blood cancer. Every day across Australia, 53 people learn they have blood cancer or one person every 27 minutes, according to the Leukaemia Foundation.

‘‘

I love helping people and this is a great opportunity to help people less fortunate than me

’’

- Archer Additionally, 16 people will lose their battle with the disease each day, with blood cancer claiming the lives of more than 5950 people each year. This year, 19,403 Australians will be newly diagnosed with a blood cancer such as leukaemia, lymphoma or myeloma, and by 2023, annual blood cancer diagnosis is predicted to increase by about 100 per cent, the foundation said. Mr Fraietta said the disease impacted his father’s platelet count and he ended up in the intensive care unit with an infection and delirium. “It was the hardest thing,” he said. “The last two months were pretty crap.” Mr Fraietta said despite the long and hard fight, his father always remained positive. “He never showed it,” he said. “He was always that bubbly type.” Mr Fraietta said even during visits with his two children, his father never wanted to show them he was in pain or undergoing hardships. “He hated the word goodbye,” he said. “When we left the hospital, he never said goodbye, it was always ‘good luck’.” St Paul’s Primary School pupil Archer, 9, said he was very excited and nervous to shave all of his hair for the cause. “I love helping people and this is a great opportunity to help people less fortunate than me,” he said. Archer shaved his hair during a special assembly alongside other participants in front of the school community on Friday, March 17, raising more than $4500 at the time of publication. Archer and his friend George from Dinjerra Primary School in Braybrook will both be donating their long locks as wigs for charity through World’s Greatest Shave partner Sustainable Salons, which donates longer ponytails for wigs for cancer patients, while shorter hair clippings were used for compost or floating booms to absorb oil spills at sea. The Williamstown High School community also united for the cause during its recent athletics festival. Year 12 student Audrey was among the students who shaved or coloured their hair,

Above: Saint Paul’s Primary School pupil Archer is shaving his head for the World’s Greatest Shave, with his friends Osula, Thomas, Thomas and Ivy excited to help. (Damjan Janevski) 323201_02 Below right: Williamstown High School students Ryan and Audrey with their new haircuts. (Supplied)

Wyndham resident Joe Fraietta has taken part in the World’s Greatest Shave in memory of his father Agazio. (Damjan Janevski) 323009_03

opting to do both and raising more than $1700. “It was important to me to fight against blood cancer, as over 100,000 people in Australia are diagnosed with blood cancer and other blood diseases,” she said. “I have also lost family members and my friends have lost family members to blood cancer and other forms of cancer. “So I wanted to do my part in helping fight cancer and raise money to help those in need.” Audrey said she was “very nervous” and felt sick before the shave. “I have never had my hair very short, let alone shaved, but as soon as it was over I absolutely loved my new hair,” she said. “I would highly recommend that for anyone wanting to shave their hair or make a big

8 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 21 March, 2023

chop to consider participating in the world’s greatest shave and raising some money for a great cause.” Year 10 student Ryan raised more than $2650 and said he decided to participate as his family, like many other families, had been touched by cancer. “I wanted to support the fight in my own small way,” he said. “Buzzing my head had to be one the most nerve wracking and exciting feelings. “It is something I will remember for the rest of my life.” With the number of blood cancer patients continuing to rise, Leukaemia Foundation chief executive Chris Tanti said people with blood cancer needed support now more than ever, and each person getting behind World’s Greatest Shave has made a difference while joining the fun and celebration of supporting a good cause. “I want to thank each and every person who has signed up so far to World’s Greatest Shave

to make it their mission to beat blood cancer,” he said. “There’s still time to register to be a part of this year’s celebration and by getting involved, you are ensuring blood cancer patients have access to the right information, support and care they need to fight their disease as well as someone to turn to every step of the way.” Mr Tanti said the organisation was “thrilled and extremely grateful” to see the continued support for the cause after 25 years. “We know many are already doing it tough due to the rising cost of living,” he said. “A blood cancer diagnosis on top of this is putting huge financial strain on thousands of Australians and their loved ones.” The Leukaemia Foundation offers expert support, funds leading-edge research and campaigns to make change for Australians facing blood cancer, with a goal to have zero lives lost to blood cancer by 2035. Details: www.worldsgreatestshave.com or 1800 500 088

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NEWS

MY PLACE Kody Lane, 17, is one of the recipients of Hume council’s latest round of sports grants. She spoke to Zoe Moffatt about her passion for playing darts.

How did you get into darts? My mum played darts before I was born and was asked to fill in when I was 11. I started going to watch and help the team by filling in the score book. In between games I had a throw and a player in the team convinced my mum to let me join the following season. She thought he was crazy considering I was only 11 years old, but turns out I could play so I joined the team and I’ve been playing darts ever since. What has been a highlight for you while playing darts? I have had many highlights during my darting career, including representing Victoria twice at the Australian Junior Championships, where I won Rookie of the Year and made the Australia Youth Squad. The most memorable highlight would have to be coming top 64 in the world at the World Championships in Gibraltar in 2022. I played one of the best players from Wales and won the game four-three, which was an amazing feeling.

Tell us about the 2022 Junior World Darts Championships in Gibraltar, Spain? It was a fantastic experience, being able to play the best junior players from around the world. Even though we were all there for darts, the connections and friendships I made meant a lot to me, we still talk now and encourage each other from different sides of the world. Do you have any upcoming competitions? I have few major competitions coming up this year, the main one is the Easter Classic at Geelong and the Australian Masters where I will compete against the women. In May I will also be competing for a spot in the Australian team to compete at the WDF World Cup in Denmark. Tell us something people would be surprised to know about you? I have also been in the Victorian Junior Squad for lawn bowls, however I gave up my position in order to focus on my darts.

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What did it mean to receive the sports grant from the Hume council? When my mum told me the grant was accepted I was extremely grateful and humbled. My dad

died when I was 11 years old, and it’s been hard on my mum to cover the cost of travel interstate and now internationally. We have been saving so I can fly to Queensland in May for the Junior Australian Team tryouts, and this grant will also help with the costs towards that trip. Sponsorships are not easy to obtain and I do have a few sponsors who help me a lot, however if anyone else would like to sponsor me I would be excited to hear from anyone keen to help.

(Natalie Lane)

Tell us a bit about yourself? My name is Kody Lane, I am 17 years old and I have been playing darts for six years. I am currently in year 12 studying photography, in hope that one day I will be a professional photographer.

Tuesday, 21 March, 2023 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 9

BEHIND THE NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

‘‘

I love helping people and this is a great opportunity to help people less fortunate than me

’’

Wyndham resident Joe Fraietta has taken part in the World’s Greatest Shave in memory of his father Agazio. (Damjan Janevski) 323009_03

10 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 21 March, 2023

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COMMUNITY STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

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

Art and craft exhibition and Come and see the exquisite art and craft work and speak to the artists who created them. The exhibition and sale will run on April 1, from 10am to 4pm, and April, 2 from 9am to 3pm at the Old Gisborne Court House, 4 Hamilton Street, Gisborne. All items are handcrafted and made by local artists. Original works are on display and for sale and entry is free. The group also welcomes new members. ■ Kay, 9744 2646

LEGO Club Calling all LEGO builders! This drop in session is for primary school age children, Wednesdays 3.30pm-5pm during school term. Children must have a caregiver with them at all times, caregiver participation is welcomed. LEGO , tea and coffee are provided. Gold coin appreciated. At Sunbury Neighbourhood House, 531 Elizabeth Drive, Sunbury. ■ www.sunburyhouse.com.au

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is Williamstown’s Myles Jarman ahead of a speedcubing competition. (Damjan Janevski) 323649_01

Puppy Pride Bring your fur babies and head to the Kyneton Botanic Gardens on Sunday, March 26, for a day of celebration of puppies and pride! This free LGBTIQA+ and family-friendly event is open to everyone. There will be a dog walk at 11am from the Kyneton Mechanics Institute up to the gardens where from 12pm there will competitions, market stalls, dog displays and plenty of food stalls to get something to eat and drink. ■ https://sunburycobaw.org.au/ puppy-pride-2023/, healthpromotion@ scchc.org.au, 5421 1666

Music and singalong Bring your instrument or your voice to a social group for adults. Songs with lyrics and chords can be viewed on the big screen, all skill sets welcome. Wednesdays, 9am-noon, at Sunbury Neighbourhood House, 531 Elizabeth Drive, Sunbury. ■ www.sunburyhouse.com.au

Local camera club Are you into photography, just starting out or fully fledged professional? The Macedon Ranges Photographic Society is your local camera club for friendship, photographic outings, workshops, guest presenters, competitions and more. Come along to a meeting on the first Tuesday of the month, followed by the next Monday. Doors open at 7pm, meeting starts at 7.30pm. Dromkeen 1012 Kilmore Road, Riddells Creek. ■ www.macedon-ranges-photography.org.au

Breast cancer support group On the first and third Tuesday of the month breast cancer survivors are invited to head along to the Gisborne Golf Club at 10.30am to take part in a breast cancer support group. There they discuss experiences, find connections and improve mental health. ■ Lesley, 0484 691 226

Village connect A new service for older people and carers provided by Macedon Ranges council for residents over 55 years old to stay socially connected, chat with others in the community and enjoy some free coffee and cake. Happening on Tuesdays and Thursday at cafes across the municipality, there’s sure to be one near you. ■ https://bit.ly/3AMUrxm, or 5422 0262

Carer connect chat Are you caring for someone close to you? Go and connect with other carers in your local area, share a light lunch, have a chat at noon on the first Wednesday of the month. Head to Sunbury and Cobaw

Community Health, 1 Caroline Chisholm Drive, Kyneton. ■ 0491 174 550, or email rebecca.lees@scchc.org.au

HarmoniX Vocal Company Get involved with an all-male, auditioned singing group happening on Thursday, 79.30pm in Sunbury. The group is inviting new members to join. The group also has a mixed choir, DynamiX Vocal Company, rehearsing Tuesday. 7-9.30pm. Both groups rehearse at Dulap Wilim Hub, 11 Leichardt Street, Sunbury. No auditions required, just bring your love of music. ■ harmonixvcinc@gmail.com

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

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 Stadium, Wilsons Lane. ■ sunburylbc@gmail.com

Arts and games night Get creative at the Sunbury Youth Centre as part of an art and games night each Wednesday at the Sunbury Youth Centre, 3.30- 5.30pm. There’s a range of arts and crafts to try, and if art isn’t your thing, there’s a wide variety of games. The program is for people aged 12 to 18 years old and is free. It’s at 51-53 Evans Street, Sunbury.

Come have a chat

Jacksons Creek Combined Probus

Family History and Heritage Society

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

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

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

Rotary club Craft and conversation 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

Chill Out Sunbury Are you between 12 and 18 years old and want to engage with other young people,

12 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 21 March, 2023

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

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 Combined Probus Club The Sunbury Combined Probus Club meets every fourth Thursday of the month at the Sunbury Football Social Club at 10am. ■ Carmel, 0416 477 271

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

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

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

Probus Club Of Sunbury 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

PUZZLES 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.

QUICK CROSSWORD ACROSS

easy

5 6 1

9 2 2

3 8 7 9 4 4 5 9

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

4 8 7 6 7

medium

3 6

6 5 2

4 1

9 6 3 7

12 13 14 15 20 21 25 26 28 29 30 31

Man-made water channel (8) Finacially backs (8) Division of the year (6) Unsound; nonsensical (9) Solomonlike (4) Call for repeat (6) Snags (6) Barter in good faith (7) Painting of the countryside (9) Accomplish (7) Australian animal (8) Outfits for actors (8) Shaping garment (6) ABC’s (6) Door opener (6) – and cons (4)

1 2 3 4 5 7 8 9 16 17 18 19 22 23 24 27

DECODER

No. 125

8 5

5 4 6 8 1

DOWN

Hitmen (9) Honey drink (4) Extraterrestrial craft (1.1.1) Representation of an abstract meaning (11) Oust (8) Tussle (6) Schlep (4) Surgical instrument (7) Exchanging something for money (7) Edible rootstock (4) Source of wisdom (6) Edible snail (Fr.) (8) Mountainous, landlocked European country (11) Male sheep or goat (3) Trial (4) Bones; frames (9)

1 6 10 11

No. 125

1 5 9 6

4 7

hard

10 11 12 13

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

S 17

ALIKE ALIVE AREN’T AROMA ASIDE AURAL AWARD BRAVE BURST CATER CORES DELAY DELIS DRYER EATER EDGED ERROR FIVES GIVES HEART KEEPS

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

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

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

9-LETTER WORD 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”.

Today’s Aim: 12 words: Good 18 words: Very good

B U

4 LETTERS ALMS BASS COOL COSY DARK ELSE HEED HERS LADS OVEN PILL SAPS TENS TIME

No. 125 Insert the missing letters to make 10 words – five reading across the grid and five reading down.

G E R

S L O P E W O M A N A G E N T

QUICK QUIZ

7 LETTERS AWAKENS LETDOWN LINEAGE STRAINS VIRTUAL WASTING

6 LETTERS GUESTS NURSES RESALE RESULT

8 LETTERS INTEREST RELEASES STRESSED TOLERATE

The stationery company Staedtler is based in which country?

Jimmy Wales and Larry Sanger launched which website in 2001?

In fan fiction, what does OTP stand for?

Vanessa Hudgens (pictured) plays how many characters in the 2020 film The Princess Switch: Switched Again?

Tom Canty and Edward VI are characters in which Mark Twain novel?

Nephology is the study of what?

NOTE: more than one solution may be possible

C A L Y

STYLE TEASE TOKEN TWINE USERS VENUE YELLS

24-03-23

LOWER MEALY OBESE OPERA PANES PEARL PRONE RASPS RATTY SAFER SAGER SASSY SAUNA SLEWS SMOKO SMOTE SOAPS SPENT SPORT STAID STARS

beet, belie, belies, belt, belts, beset, best, betel, bets, bile, bite, bites, blest, blue, bluest, built, bust, bustle, stub, sublet, subtle, tube, VESTIBULE, vibe, vibes

E A

No. 125

& 2 5 ( 6

5 LETTERS AEONS

O O

Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

25 words: Excellent

hard

5x5

3 LETTERS ANY APT ASH ASK DUE EKE ERA EVE HER HUE LYE MAP MEW MOP NIL OUR OWE PER PLY RAM SOP UPS WOE YOU

O Z C N E P UWD I G X J

medium

T R KMQ L B H F A Y S V

easy

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

WORDFIT

What is the literal translation of curriculum vitae?

Such a Fun Age (2019) is the debut novel by which US author?

The ENIAC was the world’s first what?

10 As of 2020, which two AFL clubs have the youngest average age (at 23.4 years)? ANSWERS: 1. Germany 2. One True Pair 3. Three 4. Course of life 5. Kiley Reid 6. Computer 7. Wikipedia 8. The Prince and the Pauper 9. Clouds 10. Fremantle and Gold Coast

No. 125

6 $ * ( 5 $ : $ 5 ' 6 2 $ 3 6 $ / , 9 ( / 2: ( 5 $ 8 5 $ / 0 ( $ / < 3 5 2 1 ( ) , 9 ( 6 8 3 6 . ( ( 3 6 0 ( : ( . ( 5 ( 6 $ / ( 3 ( $ 5 / % $ 6 6 6 7 5 $ , 1 6 < 2 8 ' $ 5 . ( / 6 ( % 5 $ 9 ( & 2 2 / 6 7 5 ( 6 6 ( ' ( 5 $ : $ 6 7 , 1 * / ( 7 ' 2: 1 , 1 7 ( 5 ( 6 7 7 , 0 ( ' 8 ( 6 7 < / ( 2 9 ( 1 + ( ( ' $ 6 + / , 1 ( $ * ( & 2 6 < 8 6 ( 5 6 1 8 5 6 ( 6 $ 3 7 + ( $ 5 7 / < ( 0 $ 3 6 $ 8 1 $ 6 0 2 7 ( 7 ( $ 6 ( 6 7 $ , ' 7 2 . ( 1 ( 5 5 2 5 5 $ 6 3 6 < ( / / 6 6 3 2 5 7

SUDOKU

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SPORTS QUIZ 1. The games between AFL teams Sydney Swans and GWS Giants are colloquially referred to as what? 2. A player must get to how many points to win one game of table tennis? 3. Surfing made its first appearance at the Summer Olympics in what year?

5. Show Me The Money is a TV show focused on which part of the AFL? 6. True or false: the NFL is split into two conferences? 7. Which Australian men's cricket player recently scored their maiden Test century in India? 8. In what year did Adam Simpson begin coaching the West Coast Eagles?

4. Australian NBA player Josh Giddey previously played for which NBL team?

9. The Perth Inferno play in which Australian sporting league? 10. Cayla George captains which WNBL side? 11. Which team does soccer star Aiden O’Neill play for? 12. Which city is Aussie NBA player Patty Mills from? 13. At what age did Olympic swimmer Cate Campbell make her debut at the Olympics?

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15. Which AFL coach was criticised for his audio that was leaked in the coaching box? 16. Who received the number one spot on the Top 10 Influential Women in Australian Sport list by the media? 17. Cricket star Shaun Marsh announced his retirement after how many years in first class cricket?

23. How many national teams took part in the 2023 World Baseball Classic?

18. Who is the captain of the Dolphins rugby league team?

24. Australian cricketer Usman Khawaja was born in which South Asian country?

19. Which US tennis star was penalised for being sick during a match? 20. What is the mascot of Fremantle Football Cub?

25. The final of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup is set to be held in which Australian state capital city?

28. Kayln Ponga last played for which NRL team? 29. In what round of their WBO super welterweight title bout did Tim Tszyu defeat US boxer Tony Harrison by technical knockout? 30. Sydney Kings basketballer Xavier Cooks is set to join which NBA team?

26. Australian swimmer Kaylee McKeown recently set a new world record in which event?

21. Which NRL team has a costumed mascot named Phinny? 22. The ex-wife of retired NBA player Scottie Pippen is reportedly in a relationship with the son of which retired NBA player?

27. Jayne and Christopher are the first names of which English former champion ice dancing duo?

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Subaru Outback XT looks the part

Outback is a good-looking vehicle that’s definitely in the 4WD class in its appearance. (Pictures: Supplied)

By Ewan Kennedy, Marque Motoring Japanese vehicle maker Subaru has been at the forefront of all-wheel-drive vehicles for many decades. Indeed, it produced nothing other than all-wheel-drives for many years. The only Subaru that isn’t driven by all four wheels is the BRZ sportscar, which was a joint venture between Subaru and Toyota, with the latter being a called the Toyota 86. Five variants are offered: Outback, Sport, Touring, Sport XT and Touring XT. The first three are powered by the traditional 2.5-litre engine, the XT models get a new 2.4-litre turbocharged unit. Our test vehicle for the past week was the top-spec Subaru Outback XT Touring which is very much a ‘proper’ 4WD as, with a ground clearance of 213mm, it can be taken off road and handle some pretty tough terrain. Towing capacity is 2400 kg, 2000 kg in the non-turbo models. Unfortunately, time restraints meant that we were unable to test the Outback off-road, hopefully we can do that in a further test - stay tuned.

Styling Outback is a good-looking vehicle that’s definitely in the 4WD class in its appearance. It has a large front grille above the ‘bumper’ area and honeycomb shapes below it. The bonnet has a neat slope that blends nicely into the windscreen. The roof rises for the first part then takes a gentle shape that blends neatly into the rear window. Its shape gained a nod of approval from all that viewed it during our test period. They commented that it looked like a 4WD that meant business.

Interior The interior is neatly styled. The Outback Sport and Outback Sport XT have synthetic leather upholstery that’s further protected by a water-repellent coating. Very handy if you’re going to be spending serious time in off-road driving - as well as when you carry grubby kids to and from school and/or sports events.

AT A GLANCE MODEL RANGE Outback 2.5: $42,690 Sport 2.5: $47,190 Touring 2.5: $50,990 Sport XT 2.4: $52,190 Touring XT 2.4: $55,990 SPECIFICATIONS Subaru Outback XT Touring 2.4-litre turbo-petrol five-door wagon

Boot capacity is a useful 522 litres with the rear seatbacks in place, expandable to 1267 litres when they are folded.

Engines / transmissions The 2023 Outback XT Sport and XT Touring have a 2.4-litre turbo-petrol four-cylinder engine. It drives all four wheels through a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). A less powerful 2.5-litre engine is fitted to lower cost models in the Outback range.

Infotainment There is a portrait-shaped 11.6-inch infotainment touchscreen. It’s easy to reach with fast response. There’s wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity standard across the range. The nine-speaker Harman Kardon audio system provided excellent sound reproduction that made life pleasant while we were listing to it. It’s standard in the two Touring variants,

16 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 21 March, 2023

other variants have a six-speaker system. The 4.2-inch Multi-Information Display unit (MID) in front of the driver has an LCD screen and displays all the usual monitoring information. A new USB-C port joins the existing USB-A in the front console and there are also two USB-A charge ports in the rear.

Safety Subaru’s EyeSight system includes adaptive cruise control, emergency lane-keep assist, lane centring function, lane departure prevention, lane departure warning, lane sway warning, pre-collision brake assist, pre-collision throttle management, autonomous emergency steering and brake light recognition. Should you still have a crash it has no fewer than eight SRS airbags to cushion your body and head from all the hard stuff in the cabin.

Driving The Subaru Outback XT is easy to drive and

feels almost like a large car in the way that it handles twisting mountain roads. It’s certainly not sporty, nor is it intended to be but those who do enjoy their driving will not feel it’s a pain to sit at the wheel. Acceleration is reasonably responsive and it moves away from a standstill without too much hesitation. Fuel consumption is officially listed as 9.0 litres per hundred kilometres. Around town we were using in the 10 to 11 litres per 100km. On the open road and motorways this dropped to seven to eight litres per hundred kilometres.

Summing up Subaru Outback XT is an attractive looking SUV that’s pleasant to live with thanks to decent performance good interior space. It has the no-nonsense attitude that has always characterised the Japanese marque and this will appeal to many. Would we buy one? Yes, if this was the market segment we were working in.

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SPORT

Kyneton Golf celebrates winning the CHBD title Kyneton Golf entered the Central Highlands Bowls Division finals quietly confident despite finishing fourth in division 1. Last season’s runners-up managed to knock off Gisborne in the first round of finals, before beating minor premiers Romsey in the preliminary final. It set up a rematch of last season’s grand final against Lancefield on the Labour Day long weekend. There would be no repeat of last season’s result, with Golf winning 65 (16)-46 (0). Golf president Toby Barker was one of two players in the team not to have played in a premiership. “We had an up and down season,” he said. “We were still quietly confident we could win it. We thought we had the best side this year. We thought we had the best side last year, but didn’t win it.” Barker said entering finals they believed that they had figured out their best combinations and had gelled at the right time. He said the arrival of Peter Linehan from Lancefield this season had been important,

Kyneton Golf premiers (Supplied)

while Adrian Plowman had bowled really strongly all season. Both were keys on grand final day. In the grand final, scores were close for the

first half before Golf managed to pick up some shots after the break. They were able to extend that late to come away with the win.

Plowman’s rink won 23-12, Linehan’s won 23-18 and Barry Godbolt’s won 19-16 to give Golf the clean sweep. It had been seven years since Golf last won a premiership after a golden run which saw the team win several premierships and for a time have two teams in the top grade. “It’s really good and hopefully we can stay there [on top],” Barker said. On the same day, Diggers Rest 2 won the division 3 premiership. Diggers Rest 2 beat Macedon 2, 58 (14)-51 (2) to claim the title. The two teams top sides met in the division 2 grand final on Saturday after Diggers Rest beat Romsey in the preliminary final. Macedon came out on top in that grand final, winning, 68 (14)-48 (2). Ian Gymer and Bernie Halpin were the winning skips for Macedon in the win. Bob Reidy was the winning skip for Diggers Rest. Macedon will now be promoted into the top division. Tara Murray

Sports shorts FV Sunbury United started its FV state league 3 north-west season with a win against Diamond Valley United. Scores were level at 0-0 at half time, before United hit the lead in the second half. The goal would be enough for United to get a 1-0 win. In state league 4 west, Gisborne started its season with a 2-0 loss to Barnstoneworth United. Barnstoneworth opened the scoring in the 32nd minute before doubling the lead just after the break. The Sky Blues day was made worse when they went a man down in the dying minutes after Quinlan Borg received a red card.

Coates League The Calder Cannons kick off their Coates Talent League boys season on Sunday. The Cannons will be at home facing the Gold Coast Suns in the second match of a double header at Highgate Reserve. The Cannons girls will start their season the following week.

VFLW

Hanging Rock premiership side (Supplied)

Heelers’ perfect season Tara Murray Hanging Rock handled everything that was thrown at it to complete the perfect Gisborne and District Cricket Association Jensen Shield season. Wet weather meant a delayed start to the season and when flooding left their home ground unable, the Heelers spent before Christmas on the road. The results continued to go the Heelers way on the way to a grand final against Rupertswood at the weekend. Rupo made the Heelers fight hard in the grand final, but couldn’t stop them completing an undefeated season. Coach Jarrod Milsom said they were amazed by the success that they’ve had this season. “It’s been an amazing season and what we’ve done from the start to the end,” he said. “We’ve had 23-24 players throughout the year and it’s only been the last six to eight

weeks we’ve had better player availability and we’ve settled the team from there.” On Saturday, Rupertswood made 123, bowled out in 48 overs. Milsom said they were happy to have kept Rupertswood to that total. Early on day two, the Heelers looked in control of the match, at 3-66. The tide them turned with Rupo getting back into the game. “At one stage we were 8-70 and the game got really close,” he said. “We weren’t planning on it getting that close.” Heelers skipper Brandon Nicholls, who had a broken bone in his hand, was still at the crease, giving them some hope. A knock of 48 not out helped guide his side to victory, with two wickets in hand. Milsom said the effort of Nicholls this season had been amazing. “He has had a phenomenal season making about 900 runs,” he said. “He’s averaging about 100 each time he’s

been at the crease. To have a guy like that still at the crease you know that you can still win it.” Milsom said that the group had been able to handle everything thrown at them and were really flexible as they were unable to be at their home ground. Now with the premiership in their hands, there could be more for the Heelers in the future with the club keen to continue to develop the program. “One of the goals when I first started coaching about four years ago was to provide somewhere for all the kids coming through,” he said. “We set the goals high and said that anything was possible. “The club was in club north five seasons ago and maybe we’ll be in Johnstone Shield next year.” Milsom said being in the second tier competition would benefit the club and allow it to recruit players easier.

Gisborne’s Brad Bernacki has been named co-vice captain of Essendon’s Victorian Football League side for this season. Bernacki, who joined the club midway through last season, made an immediate impact both on and off field for the Bombers. Sunbury Lions forward Jake Sutton has also been named in the leadership group. The Bombers start their season on Sunday against Greater Western Sydney on Sunday. The Bombers women’s side also start their season this weekend.

EDFL East Sunbury has named its leadership group ahead of its return to the Essendon District Football League. After withdrawing last season due to a lack of numbers, the Thunder will have both seniors and reserves sies this season. Ash Millane has been named captain of the senior side with Tom Galea and Connor Gills named co-vice captains.

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Batting woes rob the Roar of premiership prize Sunbury’s batting woes returned at the worst time, proving costly in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association division 3 grand final. Having finally found form with the bat in its past two matches to firstly make finals and then the grand final, the Roar was full of confidence entering the grand final against Grand United at the weekend. The Roar won the toss at JR Parsons Reserve and decided to have a bat on Saturday. Last week’s star Paul Webber was out for a duck, while Lachlan Treweek soon followed him back to the sheds. The Roar lost another wicket, before Kevin Barker and captain Stephen Treweek were both run out when the score was on 68, leaving the side 5-68. The older heads of Jason McGann and Jace Carton steadied the side slightly and pushed the score towards 100. Both lost their wickets in quick succession just before the team reached triple figures and the tail didn’t last long. The Roar was bowled out for a disappointing 120 in the 42nd over.

Sunbruy’s Kevin Barker (Jacob Pattison) 314678_09

Barker top scored with 32, while Sajith Kalumpriya made 21. Sam Crea and Ben Doll took three wickets each for the Gorillas, while there was three run outs which Grand United president Alan Hale

said changed the match. The Roar needed early wickets if there was any chance of coming away with the win. They got one, but that was it. The Gorillas quickly moved to 1-74 going at

about five runs an over. The Gorillas lost three quick wickets to give the Roar some hope. That would be the last wickets for the day, with the Gorillas finishing the day at 4-149 in just 35 overs. The Roar decided they didn’t think there would be a of victory on day two, so the match ended and the Gorillas were awarded the premiership. Hale said with a number of good batters still in the shed, they believed the result was only going to go one way even if they played on into the second day. The Roar tried everything in the field, using 10 bowlers including wicketkeeper Kalumpriya. Brad Hunter took two wickets, while McGann took one wicket. Jayden Powell-White was named man of the match for his 47. The grand final appearance caps off a successful season for the Roar, but one without a premiership. Its inaugural under-18 team in the VTCA made the grand final, losing to Melton. The second XI also made a semi final.

State champs for young guns

Macedon premiership side (Supplied)

Cats premiership glory By Tara Murray Macedon knew that if it made finals it would be a good chance to go all the way in the Gisborne and District Cricket Association Johnstone Shield grand final. Having only sealed their finals in the final round of the season, the Cats had a solid semi final win to get back to face Romsey in the decider for a second straight season. There would be no repeat of last season, with the Cats claiming the premiership. Cats coach Tim Berzins said it was an unbelievable feeling to have claimed the silverware. “We started to get that continuity towards the end of the season,” he said. “We got players back and we have quality players at the club. We got the right calibre of players together at the right time and it clicked.” The Cats batted first after winning the toss,

making 167, bowled out in the 75th over. Chris Axton top scored with 36, while Chad Walker made 33. Daniel Paterson took five wickets for the Redbacks. Berzins said while the score was under par on that pitch, they believed that they had the bowling line up to get the job done. He said it was always a tough match against Romsey and they expected a big challenge. Matty Williams would be the star of the show for the Cats with the ball, destroying the Redbacks batting line up. The Redbacks were eventually bowled out for 91 in the 41st over. Williams finished with an amazing 7-39 off his 19 overs. Berzins said Williams was the recruit of the season. “He bowled 19 overs straight and took for 7-40 odd,” he said. “He’s been massive for us and the pick up of the season He would go well

18 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 21 March, 2023

in any competition. “He moved to Macedon and fell in our laps. He’s been a massive asset for us.” It was no surprise that Williams was named man of the match. The win will have the Cats back in the McIntyre Cup next season. The Cats were last in the top grade in 2011-12 when they won just two games. Berzins said it was huge for the club to have the opportunity to be back in the top flight. The club’s women’s side also won the premiership. “Every senior side in the club made finals,” he said. “There’s plenty of talent and depth throughout the sides and we want to harness that, especially the youth. “We had 22 players in the first XI. We have the calibre to grow and develop the younger players in the right way. “We can allow them to take over when they’re ready to take over and not rush them too soon.”

Four of Sunbury and the Macedon Ranges young basketball stars will be on show at the under-16 Australian Junior Championships later this year. Alex Grey, Finn McGinity, Samuel Haslett and Sonny Maxwell have been named in the 10 player under-16 Victoria Country team which will head to Perth in July. Maxwell was an emergency for the team last year as a bottom age player. Last year’s team finished sixth. All four started basketball in the Macedon Ranges and represented the Macedon Ranges at the under-16 Country Championships earlier this year. They also all play representative basketball for the Jets. The Jets posted on their Facebook page about the achievement. “To have four SBA athletes from the same team make a state team is very rare and a huge credit to your work and dedication to your craft,” a post said, “The SBA is incredibly proud of your achievement and we look forward to watching your success at the upcoming AJC. The boys will be joined at the AJC by coach Simon Nicholson who will be assisting the U16 country women. Jets women’s coach Simon Nicholson will also head to the championships as assistant coach of the under-16 country women’s team.

Four Sunbury Jets players have been picked to represent Vic Country. (Supplied)

Mixed start for the Sunbury Jets It was a mixed start to the season for the Sunbury Jets in the Big V state championship competition. The Jets men started the season with a win, while the under strength women’s side suffered a first up loss. The men’s side, which were runners-up last season, started this year against the Blackburn Vikings on Sunday. After leading by six points at quarter time, the Jets ramped it up in the middle two quarters to lead by 29 points at the last break. The Vikings won the last quarter, but the damage had been done with the Jets winning 96-68. Ish Sanders showed no rust with 33 points to lead the way for the Jets. Every Jets player took to the court, with all but one player hitting the scoreboard. The Jets women faced the McKinnon

Cougars in their first match of the season on Sunday. Missing several key players, the Jets were made to pay for two poor quarters. The Jets led by one point at quarter time, but scored just six points in the second quarter to trail by that margin at the half. The margin increased to nine points in the third quarter. The Jets weren’t able to finish it off, with the Cougars winning the last quarter to blow out the margin. The Jets struggled from deep, missing all 18 three point attempts. Darcy Saunders in her Jets debut top scored with 15, the only player to hit double figures. Bianca Babic and Chloe Hilderband also made their debuts for the Jets, having played for Keilor Thunder in the National Basketball League 1 South competition last season. Import Ida Andersson and Nicole Cameron

both missed the match, while the Jets second import is yet to arrive. The Jets host the Hume City Broncos on Sunday in round two in both the men’s and women’s matches. The Broncos women suffered a first up loss, while the men’s team started with two wins. The Jets youth league division 1 side had a tough start to the season, losing to McKinnon 95-59. Cara Beattie top scored with 13 points, while Grace Cooper had 11 points. Sunbury’s youth league men’s division 2 team had a mixed start to the season. They lost to Albury Wodonga Bandits 64-59, before backing up with an 110-51 win against the Wangaratta North East Bushrangers. Seven players scored double figures in the big win, led by Owen Stephens with 21 points.

Ish Sanders started the season with 33 points (Supersport Images)

claims United slays its demons Landt Nichols Medal By Tara Murray

Sunbury United produced the perfect team performance to win through to the Gisborne and District Cricket Association McIntyre Cup grand final. Having waited 12 months for another shot at making a grand final, after going out in straight sets last season, United produced one of its best performances of the season in the semi final against Bacchus Marsh. United coach Upul Fernando was ecstatic that they had been able to make it through to the final day of the season. “We’ve very, very happy,” he said. “The boys are very happy. “We were in the grand final two years ago and we made the semi finals last season. Hopefully we can win it this year.” United set up the win on day one of the match. Winning the toss, United decided to bat which proved to be the right decision as they hit the ball to all parts of the ground. United made 9-320 from its 80 overs. Ashan Ranaweera top scored with 134 at the top of the order. Fernando said everyone played their role in the chase. “To put 300 on the board in a semi final is massive,” he said. “We put the pressure on straight from the start. “Ashan did his job, I got 50 odd in the middle … everyone chipped in to be honest and we played as a team. “We don’t depend on one person.” Fernando said their bowling group played really well, not allowing the Bulls to get going. He said the Bulls played a very negative innings, which wasn’t what they were expecting. “Needing 300, we expected them to take it on,” he said. “Senura Perera bowled well again and Raj [Rajitha Mendis]was really good. “We took the wicket of [James] Lidgett and we targeted some of their players. “We planned some things and the plans worked really well.” Perera took four wickets for United, while Mendis finished with three wickets. Brenton Payne played a lone hand for the Bulls, making 104. United now faces Romsey in the grand final. Fernando said they take plenty of confidence into the grand final having played well the last three weeks. “We know we will be in the game,” he said. “We were expecting Gisborne, but what happened to us last year happened to them this year. “We are on the right track and hopefully we

There was no off season for Dylan Landt as he starred in the Northern Territory Football League. Landt, who played with Darley in between Victorian Football League commitments with Essendon last season, was awarded the Nichols Medallist, the NTFL’s highest male honour. Landt finished on 23 votes, to beat ruckman Matthew Dennis by eight votes. Hailing from the Calder Cannons, the Sunbury Lions and Rupertswood, Landt has been with St Mary’s since the 2020-21 season, cementing himself as an integral cog in the green machine. Landt averaged 29 disposals this season, as his side made it through to the preliminary final. Speaking after the win, Landt said it was a pretty surreal moment. “Obviously it’s such a huge honour, something that you don’t play for but it’s always a good feeling and something I will cherish,” he said. “The playing group and coaching staff at the St Marys footy club, it’s been an awesome three years. “I just trust that Chopper, the coach, [Raphael Clarke] puts into me this week and the playing group, to play there and play footy. “I love my footy at the Saints footy club, going out there and playing with a lot of love and passion for the Saints footy club and getting the best out of my footy.” Landt also paid tribute to his parents and his girlfriend Stephanie.

Rajitha Mendis (Jacob Pattison)321161_01

win the grand final.” Romsey knocked off minor premiers Gisborne in the other semi final. The Dragons entered the match as favourites having lost just one game for the season. The Dragons struggled with the bat, bowled

out for just 123. Romsey had no such trouble, finishing 3-124 in just 41 overs. The grand final is Romsey’s second straight, having lost to Gisborne last season.

Dylan Landt in action for Darley last year. (Supplied)

Tuesday, 21 March, 2023 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 19

You’re invited

Open Day

Are you ready for a whole new life nestled in the foothills of Victoria’s spectacular Macedon Ranges in the picturesque, historic town of Woodend? Don’t miss out on our GemLife Woodend Open Day on Saturday, 22 April. With two stunning new display homes to view in our Final Stage, join one of our Open Day sessions to inspect these high-quality homes - complete with an impressive range of superb standard inclusions - and get a taste of truly exceptional over-50s living. DATE

Saturday, 22 April

TIME

10am - 1pm

WHERE

GemLife Woodend 1849 Mount Macedon Road

Registration essential

12593764-SM12-23