Star Weekly - Sunbury Macedon Ranges - 18th July 2023

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Pieces that connect

Hume-based Yorta Yorta, Gunaikurnai, Gunditjmara artist Teena Moffatt has created an art exhibition named ‘Pieces of Me’ at the Hume Global Learning Centre in Craigieburn.

‘Pieces of Me’ explores themes of identity, family and home inspired by Moffatt’s ancestral stories and presented in a variety of traditional and contemporary media. From possum skin burrai (baby carriers) adorned with ochre, to traditional woven baskets and totem stories depicted as visual elliptical narratives on canvas.

She said her art enables her to communicate, connect and share her knowledge across generations, mixing the old with the new.

Moffatt said that her work is guided from a deep place of her dreaming.

“My art connects my past, present and future,” she said. “In honour of my grandmothers and grandfathers, my family and my bloodlines, to ensure my children feel a strong connection to their people and traditional ways.”

‘Pieces of Me’ is showing until Sunday, August 27.

Soccer club stuck in mud

By Zoe Moffatt

The decreasing safety of the Gisborne Soccer Club’s Dixon Field pitch is throwing doubt on the club’s future.

In the depths of winter’s coldest months, Gisborne Soccer Club members are having to divert games from their waterlogged and muddy main pitch at Dixon Field, which they say is continuing to deteriorate.

Club president and former Socceroo Carl Valeri said just three millilitres of rain will waterlog the pitch and is a serious safety issue for players and the club.

“Every time it rains [the pitch] turns into mud … even with just three milliliters of rain it will retain water,” Mr Valeri said.

“It’s been an ongoing issue … since I’ve been attheclub,whichisforaboutfiveyearsnow,it’s been continuously deteriorating … [and] now it’s at its worst point.

“We decided not to play there because it is unsafe and the players may be seriously injured. Literally you can sink into the mud and anything can happen.”

Mr Valeri said this ongoing issue is concerning especially considering the town’s growth, which Macedon Ranges council’s structure plan and urban design framework predicts will reach 20,454 residents by 2036.

“With an increase in members and the community of Gisborne growing, we’re finding more and more players and our main pitch is unpayable in the winter,” he said.

“We have about 400 members across all ages and we’re proud of that, but my fear is that as Gisborne and Macedon Ranges grow, we won’t be able to support the new players.

“This year we had four under-8 teams, next year we won’t be able to support that if the issues don’t get resolved.

“We don’t have a safe space … and so kids will miss out.”

Mr Valeri said the club has had to rent other pitches to play on, and while discussions with council have been more productive lately, the issue is still not getting resolved.

“We have been in dialogue with council and I must say council has been much more co-operative the last 12 months … however this problem has not been addressed.

“Rightatthisstage,wearealmostatthepoint where we need to find an external solution and it’s going to cost money.

“It’s a shame … we have beautiful facilities and we just can’t use them.”

Macedon Ranges assets and operations director Shane Walden said council is aware of the challenges winter sporting clubs face regarding ground conditions.

“All grounds receive a range of treatments to improve drainage to support the longevity of grounds,” Mr Walden said.

“Council is developing detailed designs for pitch two and a small synthetic pitch … [and] has also allocated funding in the 2023-24 budget to undertake detailed design for pitch one improvements.”

Teena Moffatt. (Ljubica Vrankovic)

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Real Estate Agents Everywhere

Mt Macedon vegetation to stay

By Zoe Moffatt

Macedon Ranges council has voted to keep the vegetation on Mount Macedon, following a lengthy and passionate discussion.

AtameetingonWednesday,July12,council voted to refuse to grant a permit for the removal of vegetation at the Mount Macedon Memorial Cross Reserve.

This decision went against a council officer’s recommendation and follows 62 letters of objection and 36 letters of support for the permit.

Deputy mayor Jennifer Anderson said the vegetation removal is not justified to provide a view.

“Macedon Ranges has declared a climate emergency,” Cr Anderson said.

“We have a net zero emissions policy, which includes looking at local carbon offsets where required, we have a biodiversity strategy and a councilplanwhereweprioritisetheprotection of the natural environment.

“The application before us is not supported by any of these documents as well as the planning scheme and the loss of significant

vegetation is not justified to potentially provide a view to Melbourne.

“It is the landscape of the mountain itself thatisimportant,nottheviewofthelandscape of Melbourne.” Cr Geoff Neil said the permit has created a dilemma for him.

“We’re not talking about bulldozers … we’re talking about hand cutting and hand trimming,” Cr Neil said

“It’s created a dilemma for me between remembering our history, our very important history and our commemoration of that as opposed to removing native vegetation.

Soup-er good warm winter meals

Macedon Ranges Veg Action group is helping to keep residents warm and full this winter with the launch of its soup kitchen.

The newly launched initiative is held in the undercroft at the back of the Woodend Neighbourhood House every Thursday lunchtime and is made possible with food from the neighbourhood house.

Veg Action volunteer Claire Rowland said Soulful Suppers is an opportunity for all residents to have a healthy meal packed with veggies.

“We recently changed the time to 12.30pm to 2.30pm … [as] there’s a greater number

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of people available [which] makes it more accessible,” Ms Rowland said.

“We provide two different dishes a week at the moment, we’re making really warming, hearty soups … it’s a feel good food.”

Ms Rowland said with the current cost of living increases the group wanted to create a friendly space for residents to grab a meal to take away, or eat-in and socialise.

“We have a range of people who are doing it tough at the moment,” she said.

“We’re not necessarily talking about homeless people, we’re talking about people who have had an increase in expenses,

especially on home loan repayments.”

Ms Rowland said ensuring the dishes are packed with veggies is a big focus, with a 2020 Healthy Heart Victoria study revealing just 13.9 per cent of Macedon Ranges residents met the guidelines of vegetable consumption.

“As the cost of living rises, access to fresh, nutritious food becomes more difficult… grabbing a veggie packed dish from our kitchen is one way to eat better over winter.”

Details: veg@mrsg.org.au

“I might get overly emotional about it, but the fact remains, my makeup says people are more important.

“I’m not suggesting that the grounds that Cr Anderson mentioned are not equally as important.”

Councillors who voted to refuse the permit for vegetation removal were Crs Rob Guthrie, Anne Moore, Janet Pearce, Bill West, Cr Anderson, and mayor Annette Death.

Councillors who voted to grant the permit forvegetationremovalwereCrsNeil,Dominic Bonanno, and Mark Ridgeway.

Have a say on disability plan

Macedon Ranges council has endorsed a draft disability action plan (DAP) 202324, to go out for public exhibition for at least four weeks.

Council passed a motion at its meeting on Wednesday June 28, with the plan set to guide council activities to create an inclusive community.

Mayor Annette Death spoke to the motionandsaidtheplanisanimportant document for council to build a supportive environment. “[While] it may be a legislative requirement to have this plan, it’s also a really important document,” Cr Death said.

“[It’s important] to build an inclusive and supportive environment for all community members, so I look forward to this going to community consultation.”

Cr Death said a highlight of the plan is that people with a disability will be included with the monitoring and reporting.

“Moving forward the monitoring and reporting on the plan is noted to include people with a disability in that process, and to have their input recorded in the actions,” she said.

“It is an inclusive document not only just for what it stands for, but also monitoring and reporting and how we use the framework moving forward.

“I encourage people at home to have a look … and I look forward to seeing those community consultations when they come back.”

Council said the plan aligns with the strategic objectives of its community vision statement of; connecting communities, healthy environments, healthy people, business and tourism, and delivering strong and reliable government.

Zoe Moffatt

Food Bank Volunteer Terrie Hollingsworth, and Veg Action volunteer Claire Rowland. (Ljubica Vrankovic).

Split over Willowbank Road plan

By Zoe Moffatt

A Willowbank Road proposed development foralocalactivitycentrehasdividedMacedon Ranges residents, with some voicing their objections at the council meeting.

Macedon Ranges council invited community feedback on the development from May 8 to June 13, and received five objections and seven supporting submissions, including three from referral authorities.

Thedevelopmentproposestorezone101-105 Willowbank Road to a small commercial zone for the site to include a small supermarket, a

medical centre, office and cafes, and 57 car parking spaces.

At a meeting on July 12, one resident voiced theirconcernsinregardstotheshop’sopening hours and perimeter fencing.

“We strongly support the use of an acoustic fence as this will assist in blocking out any noise … however, it is only a light acoustic fence [and] … we believe a heavier acoustic fence is required,” they said.

“We don’t want to hear vehicles or people continuously entering and exiting the car park next door while we’re relaxing in our backyard.”

“Lastly, the proposal said the supermarket will open at 7am everyday … we think 8am is a much more appropriate opening time, particularly on the weekends which would reduce disruption to us.”

One submitter who spoke on behalf of the applicant said the acoustic fence is inline with its use, and due to the locality of the site they anticipate the car parking to be lower than that of a typical centre.

“The proposed acoustic fence is meeting all the Australian requirements as identified by our acoustic engineer,” they said.

“It is noted that this is a local centre that

Sunbury local hops to turtle count

SunburykangaroocountfounderRobertIrvine has swapped Victoria’s winter and migrated northtohelpmonitortheseaturtlepopulation.

Mr Irvine travelled to Bare Sand Island off the coast of Darwin in early July to volunteer with conservation and research not-for-profit AusTurtle.

Mr Irvine said he spent about a week there camping and found the experience interesting and satisfying.

“The project has been running for about 20 years … [and] it’s the second time I’ve done it so I knew what to expect,” he said.

Mr Irvine said the count would happen at night, but the exact time would vary with the tide.

“You go out at high tide at night, as the turtles prefer to crawl the shortest distance to avoid predators,” he said. “As the turtles come up you record if it has a titanium tag which means it’s been tagged before, and if there isn’t a tag a qualified professional will tag it.

“You measure the length and width of the shell … which is put into a database to monitor them.

“The next day you come up at sunset and you look for precious eggs hatching [which] will climb out and try to get back to the sea.

“Mostly they’re eaten by night herons, which isabird,andcrabsandiftheyareluckyenough to get to the sea they can be eaten by sharks as well.

“What is truly amazing is the hatchling, if it survives, it comes back to the exact same spot 30 years later to lay eggs.”

Zoe Moffatt

Sunbury local Robert Irvine volunteered with conservation and research not-for-profit AusTurtle. (Supplied)

encourages walking and cycling and so therefore we anticipate the car parking to actually be lower than that of a typical centre.”

Other concerns received via written submissions include: an increase in traffic, the building height and scale of proposed development, and that the application is an overdevelopment.

The support received in regards to the proposal includes: that the application is consistentwiththearea’scurrentandproposed strategicpolicy,thatthedevelopmentprovides walkable access to local services and caters for this type of development demand.

New round of PUMP

McEwen residents and councils can now have their say on new draft guidelines for the next round of the peri-urban mobile program (PUMP).

InanannouncementonJuly7,McEwen MPRobMitchellencouragedresidentsto provide feedback on the program which aims to improve mobile coverage on the urban fringes of communities across Australia.

The government said these peri-urban fringes, where the bush meets the edges of the suburbs, can create significant challenges for communications infrastructure and natural disaster risks for residents and workers.

These communities are generally underservedduetothehighcost,difficult terrain, planning challenges including in national parks, and lower population densities.

Mr Mitchell said it is vital that communities stay in touch and receive reliable communication and coverage.

“Poor mobile coverage is something locals consistently raise when I’m out in ourcommunity,” hesaid.“Havingaccess to reliable coverage during a natural disaster can be a matter of life and death.

“[The government is] committed to improving mobile coverage … including along our peri-urban fringes, to ensure local communities can stay in touch and receive information when they need it most.”

PUMP aims to improve mobile coverage and connectivity issues experienced by peri-urban communities through investing on local projects with mobile network operators.

As part of the consultation process a project noticeboard has been established to help councils and community groups identify mobile coverage and reception, and form telecommunications partnerships to develop funding applications.

University study aims to document extent of farm crime

Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) is urging farmers to voice the impacts felt from farm crime through the Australian Farm Crime Survey.

The survey has been commissioned by the UniversityofNewEnglandandaimstoprovide a comprehensive snapshot of all farm crime across Macedon Ranges and Australia. VFF president Emma Germano said farm crime is underreported and the survey will provide invaluable insight.

“This is the first national survey to have been undertaken in two decades and the results will

provide invaluable insight into farm crime across Australia,” Ms Germano said.

“Livestock theft in Victoria alone has hit a 10 year high, costing farmers a staggering $6.7 million dollars last year. We know farm crime is underreported, so the real figure could easily be much higher.

University of New England centre for rural criminology co-director Dr Alistair Harkness agreedthatoneofthebiggestissuesisreporting the crime, with a lot of farmers reluctant to report.

“[There] isn’t a sufficient national picture

that’s up to date that gives us information on farm crime policing, prevention and farmers attitudes towards those things,” Dr Harkness said. “A lot of farmers have indicated they are reluctant to report … [for] a range of reasons [including that they] won’t be taken seriously, [they are] fearful of retribution, or [have] no evidence.

“Farmcrimeisarealscourgeandneedstobe takenseriously.Itishighlyimpactfulforpeople socially and communities economically.”

Macedon Ranges Sustainability Group regenerative farming action group leader Alex

Sims said it is important to know the risks farmers are facing.

“I think farmers above many professions are high risk targets, often they are cash poor and asset rich,” Mr Sims said. “It’s not always easy to keep tabs on equipment and keep it locked up…[and]it’sinourbestinteresttoknowwhat risks farmers are facing in terms of theft.

“Given the nature of the work, you are often in remote locations on a lot of land [and] equipment is costly … I think [theft] is something that is always going to be there.”

Details: https://rb.gy/r4bfy

‘‘ What is truly amazing is the hatchling, if it survives, it comes back to the exact same spot 30 years later to lay eggs ’’ - Robert Irvine

‘Common sense’ rail bridge plan

By Liam McNally

About 80 Diggers rest residents gathered to form their own preferred plan for the level crossing removal on Old Calder Highway on Wednesday, July 12.

As a part of the government’s statewide level crossing removal plan, the crossing is due to be replacedwithabridgeovertheraillinein2025.

The government is undertaking site investigations in the area to decide the best place for the new bridge.

Some residents became concerned about the level crossing removal proposals after a site investigation work notification letter was sent

to residents in November last year.

The investigation works letter, which has been seen by StarWeekly , highlights an area from the end of Stan-Payne Reserve, over the railway line, and up the railway line parallel to it and Tame Street, to Diggers Rest-Comadai Road.

The area appears to cover parts of residential properties sparking fears that if the plan goes ahead certain properties may be up for compulsory acquisition by the government.

In recent months the government has held community consultations but has not confirmed the final design for the bridge or if any privately owned land will be earmarked for

acquisition.

The state government confirmed designs are yet to be finalised, but some land outside the rail corridor may be required.

A spokesperson said the government will continue to consult affected property owners and the local community as the project progresses.

Diggers Rest resident Bob Rau organised the Wednesday town meeting at the Bowling Club, after being encouraged by the Level Crossing Removal team to create a vision for the bridge that residents support.

Mr Rau said the starting point for the meeting was that although no official decision

Early finish on upgrades for Sunbury

TheSunburylineupgradehasbeencompleted six months ahead of schedule, paving the way for the early opening of the Metro Tunnel in 2025.

In an announcement on July 11, the state government said more than 300 metres of track was built to connect the Sunbury line to the western entrance, while installing and testing high-capacity signalling and power equipment.

Premier Daniel Andrews said the upgrade will reduce congestion in Sunbury, and allow bigger trains when the Metro Tunnel opens.

“One more level crossing [is] gone for good, and bigger trains set to run on the Sunbury line when the Metro Tunnel opens,“ he said.

Work on the upgrade began in 2019 and included power and signalling upgrades, new substations, platform extensions, new wheelchair boarding pads and upgrades to train stabling.

There is now 97 kilometres of continuous track from Melbourne’s north-west to south-east, via the new twin, nine kilometre rail tunnels under the city.

The Metro Tunnel, which is one year

ahead of schedule, will allow Sunbury line passengers to travel to Cranbourne or Pakenham without getting off the train, and access five new underground stations when the tunnel is complete.

Sunbury MP Josh Bull said: “Removing the Gap Road level crossing, upgrading Sunbury Road and preparing the line for more frequent, reliable trains for local passengers … is another step in building a better Sunbury”.

Zoe Moffatt

had been made, residents assumed the current preferred option was the path the investigative works are on, which was of “great concern”.

During the meeting residents “almost unanimously” decided on one of five options for the bridge Mr Rau drafted, which would crosstherailwaylinefurthersouthandinclude a bypass road connecting the Old Calder Highway to Plumpton Road.

“I have never seen an example of such a unanimous decision in 30 years … People said it would not disturb the people in residential streets nearby,” he said.

The residents’ proposed plan will be submitted to the government.

Sponsorship policy draft say

Macedon Ranges council is inviting community feedback on its draft sponsorship policy until July 31.

The policy aims to provide guidance for council staff seeking or receiving sponsorship opportunities on behalf of council, as well as providing guidance in regards to sponsorship naming rights.

Council said this includes financial and in-kind support from external organisations, such as the Telstra Macedon Ranges Community Choice Awards or sponsorship for events throughout the shire.

Corporate director Adele Drago-Stevens said community input is an important step in helping to shape the policy and ensure future sponsorships align with community values.

“By actively engaging the community in the decision-making process, council aims to foster a sense of ownership and inclusivity,” Ms Drago-Stevens said.

“[This should] result in sponsorships that resonate with the needs and priorities of the community. Council encourages residents and businesses to get involved in the development of the sponsorship policy and have a say in how sponsorships are managed.”

Clear guidelines and selection criteria for sponsorships are outlined in the policy to ensure the decision-making process is fair and consistent.

Council said the feedback will enhance transparency, accountability, and community engagement, and will be carefully considered in the finalisation of the policy.

Details: mrsc.vic.gov.au/your-say

Zoe Moffatt

The Sunbury line upgrade was completed six months ahead of schedule. (Supplied)

Help with winter shelter

By Zoe Moffatt

Sunbury Winter Shelter needs additional volunteers to help run overnight accommodation for those doing it tough.

As the country passes the middle of winter, theSunburyshelteriscontinuingtoprovidehot meals, friendship, a place to charge electronics and find support.

Project co-ordinator Dianne Moon said the shelter had a slow start to winter but has become busier as the weather gets colder and more people find out about the service.

“Our start this year was slower than in previous years but … we are steady [at about] eight guests,” Ms Moon said. “Once one [person] finds out the word spreads, [and] also the weather plays a role, when it gets colder more people are looking for warmth.”

Ms Moon said running overnight accommodation has been the focus this year and people who can volunteer for night shifts are essential to keep the service running.

“We put a lot of time and energy into recruiting this year [through] community activities [and] … handing out our business cards … to let people know about us.

“We will take as many volunteers who are willingtogiveuptheirwarmbedforanyofour shifts we need to cover, the more we have the smoother the program operates.

“During winter there are so many illnesses so you need an emergency list of volunteers to call upon at short notice.

“The hardest [shifts to fill] are the overnight and early morning shifts so we would welcome anyone who is able to donate some time … every bit of time helps.”

Ms Moon said it is important to offer this support to people in need and there are many different ways people can volunteer their time.

“[People] need a helping hand, someone to walk beside them to show them places that can help … [that’s] what we are doing with this program.

“[Giving] them a roof over their heads, a hot meal so that they can concentrate on connecting with the organisation that can

Investment policy change

Hume council has implemented parameters to broaden its investment portfolio.

At a meeting on July 11, councillor Naim Kurt said the new investment policy marks an important step forward.

“Ensuringthatourinvestmentsarenot only financially sound but also socially responsible,” Cr Kurt said.

The policy will provide some flexibility to consider investing outside of the ‘big four’ banks, where it has traditionally invested, or opt for subsidiaries of these financial institutions.

Council is also taking an “aggressive approach” by considering banks with eco-investing or green investment products.

“It is important that this council applies a social lens to its investments,” Cr Kurt said.

“This demonstrates our commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.

“[It’s] our desire to make socially responsible investment choices.

“Ensures our investments align with our values and community needs.”

The diversification aspect of the policy will also stop council from investing more than 75 per cent of its cash into one financial institution.

help them.”

If you are not able to volunteer at the shelter, Ms Moon said cooking meals for the program, donating warm items, washing bed linen or driving the shelter’s trailer are other ways to help.

Details: https://sunburywintershelter.org.au/

“Inthedifficultfinancialtimesthatthe community finds itself in, it’s important thatwestrikeabalancebetweenfinancial growth and prudent risk management,” he said.

Harper Sercombe

New Rotary president

There has been a presidential change at Kyneton Rotary, with Hartley Uebergang taking over the position.

FormerpresidentJohnDamrowhandedover the reins to Mr Uebergang on Friday, June 30, at achangeoverfunctionattheShanrickHotel.

Mr Uebergang said he has been a part of the organisation for about eight years and joined when he moved to the area.

“I was nominated last year and took on the role that night,” Mr Uebergang said.

“I’ve always been a community-minded person and [joined] when I came from Melbourne to look after my ageing mother.

“The way to meet people in small country towns is to get involved.”

Mr Uebergang said the organisation has about 35 members and he will focus his time in the position on increasing membership numbers.

“Wehaveadifferentpresidenteveryyearand

so when the time is right you take your turn,” he said.

“All rotaries generally have presidents for a year … it’s to bring about a diverse range of views and ideas.

“My main focus will be on membership and trying to get more people involved.”

Mr Uebergang said joining a rotary is a great opportunity to meet new people from all over the world.

“It’s a global organisation … there was an international conference in Melbourne in May which about 13,000 to 14,000 people attended.”

“[Anyone interested in joining] can phone me or get in contact with any Kyneton rotarian … to ask the questions.

“Andbyallmeanstheyarewelcometoattend [a meeting].”

Details: https://rb.gy/vei2b

Zoe Moffatt

Kyneton Rotary president Hartley Uebergang with former president John Damrow. (Supplied)

Sunbury Winter Shelter project co-ordinator Dianne Moon, treasurer Jeff Truscott, secretary Juan Carlos Rodrigue-Deller and chairperson Jane Voon. (Damjan Janevski) 343203_01

Inclusive programs for all

Providing inclusive, personalised and supportive programs for people of all abilities is a key priority for the Y which operates a number of 1:1 support programs throughout Melbourne and the Greater Melbourne areas.

The profit-for-purpose organisation, which is also a Registered National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) provider, has worked in the disability sector for over 30 yearsacrosscamps,inhomesupports,holiday programs, youth/social support programs and NDIS support coordination.

Its1:1supportprogramisacrucialaspectof providing assistance and care to individuals with disabilities. It involves the provision of dedicated support and personalised attention to meet the specific needs and requirements of each person. This approach recognises that every individual has unique abilities, challenges, and aspirations, and aims to empower people to lead fulfilling lives.

“We have seen our program triple in the number of hours of support we provide our participants in the past 12 months” explains Y home and community director Sarah Gleeson.

“It is important we build rapport and spend the time to get to know our participants to enable them to overcome barriers, enhance

their independence, and participate fully in all aspects of their life”.

This has lead the Y to develop a number of new support programs which provide people with disability who have similar goals and interests the opportunity to actively participate in community activities together. These include organised outings to sporting events, art classes, girls pamper days, ten pin bowling and day trips to regional Victoria, just to name a few.

“We have taken the participants lead in designing support their way,” said Sarah.

“Our community have told us they want to be able to have the 1:1 support of a support worker, so they could get individualised support for their needs but also wanted to be able to access community programs amongst their peers to create friendships and enjoy social experiences. Our Adventure Dayz, Lad and Girlz Club, Saturday Youngsters and Sunday Funday allow participants this opportunity.”

To enquire about Inclusion Services by the Y’s 1:1 support programs please call 1300 699 622 or visit inclusion.ymca.org.au

Call-out for performers

Sunbury-based inclusive theatre company, BoilOver,isseekingnewmembers.BoilOver,a program of Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health, is open to anyone over the age of 18 who has an interest in performing or in the work that goes on behind the scenes in the performing arts. There are opportunities for skill development, for example, thanks to a grant from the Australia Council for the Arts, thecompanyhasjustfinishedafive-weekcircus workshop where group members developed their aerial and lift techniques and worked on conditioning exercises to strengthen the body and build flexibility.

The artists are busy rehearsing for their next production, The Birds, which will take place as part of the Melbourne Fringe Festival in October.

Led by professional arts practitioners, memberslearntodeveloptheirconfidenceand

performance skills in a safe and supportive environment as well as increase their fitness, emotional literacy, self-esteem and social networks.

The group meets weekly in Sunbury with extra rehearsals being held in the lead up to a production.

Sunbury and Cobaw Community is a registered NDIS service provider so the program can be accessed through an NDIS plan.

If you are interested in coming along one week to see if BoilOver is for you, give Carmen Maddison a call on 9744 4455 or email boilover@scchc.org.au.

You can also see photos and videos from previous productions by going to the website: www.sunburycobaw.org.au/a-z-services/ community-connections/boiloverperformance-ensemble/

9744 4455

Participants enjoying a day out at the NGV.

(Supplied)

BoilOver artists, crew and creative staff. (Supplied)

Residents reject Wedge St plan

By Zoe Moffatt

Macedon Ranges residents have spoken out againsttheproposedWedgeStreetdevelopment inKyneton,withconcernsaboutlotsizes,traffic and neighbourhood character.

Councilreceived30submissionsinregardsto the development which proposes 18 lots and a reserve adjacent to Post Office Creek.

Ten residents spoke against the plan during council’s planning delegated committee meeting on July 12.

One resident said they have been living in the area for 30 years and development does not

consider the neighbourhood impact, especially with Wedge Street bridge over Post Office Creek.

“I’m speaking to object this proposed development … [as it] doesn’t consider the long term damage it will have caused this neighbourhood,” the resident said.

“[One] of the main reasons I object this includes [that] the Wedge Street bridge is inadequate to take extra traffic.”

The resident said the narrow bridge width is a current problem for the cars, pedestrians, animals and bikes which all access the bridge.

“This is a current problem for the 20 to 25

Sunbury seniors boost

Sunbury has received a $3.1 million funding commitment from Hume council and the state government to upgrade the Senior Citizens Centre and Eric Boardman Reserve.

Hume council said the joint investment will provide Sunbury with the modern facilities it deserves as the population continues to grow.

Mayor Joseph Haweil said council is committed to supporting Sunbury and to catering for the needs of all residents.

“[The] announcement shows that we are committedtosupportingSunburyasitbecomes one of our most rapidly developing suburbs,” Cr Haweil said.

“With its ideal combination of CBD proximity and suburban living, it’s no wonder older residents don’t want to leave while young families are choosing to make Sunbury their home.

“We want to cater to those needs.”

Sunbury MP Josh Bull said the government

is thrilled to be investing in the Sunbury Senior Citizens Centre and look forward to seeing the positive impacts.

“Facilities like the Sunbury Senior Citizens Centre are critical to support and encourage communityengagementandinclusionamongst the residents of Sunbury,” Mr Bull said.

“We are thrilled to be investing in the future of this brilliant organisation, and look forward toseeingthepositiveimpactthesewell-deserved and long-awaited upgrades will offer.”

The Sunbury Senior Citizens Centre upgrade includes multi-use spaces, new kitchen layout and coffee space, and improved outdoor spaces.

The Senior Citizens Centre and Eric BoardmanReserveupgradesarefundedthrough $1 million from Hume council and $2 million from the state government, including $600,000 from the Sunbury Bulla Neighbourhood Fund.

Zoe Moffatt

houses who live north of the Post Office Creek and use the bridge already,” they said.

“ThereforeIcan’tseehowitwillcopewiththe extra [vehicles] … I’ve already seen near misses of people nearly being hurt, including myself.

“With an undersized bridge and 50 per cent more traffic I can only see [an accident] being more likely … to happen.”

The submitter who spoke on behalf of the applicant said there are examples of smaller allotments in the area, and Wedge Street bridge was assessed to be able to accommodate the extra traffic.

“The surrounding neighbourhood character

provides for a mix of lot sizes … [and] there are several examples of smaller infill allotments that are equal or less in size than the proposed allotments,”theysaid.“TheWedgeStreetbridge is small in size … [and] is affected by heritage overlay which makes upgrading it unlikely.

“The traffic impact assessment report prepared by a qualified traffic engineer concluded the road network can accommodate the added traffic.”

Other objections to the development include potential impact on Post Office Creek, noise, dust, heritage of the adjoining police paddock, and housing diversity.

Skier’s international splash

A Sunbury water skier has travelled to Mexico for the under-21 waterski championships, with the help of a grant from Hume council.

Waterskier Ben Cosgriff, 20, flew to Chapala in central Mexico for the competition which was held on June 12-17.

Hume council awarded Mr Cosgriff $750 at its meeting on July 10, through the sports aid grants.

Mr Cosgriff said he competed in three differenttypesofwaterskiing,includingslalom, jump and tricks, and the grant helped to pay for the associated costs.

“[It was my] first fully international tournament … I was nervous going into it but tried my best to keep calm,” he said.

“Overall I was pretty happy, I came 14th in one of the events [and] … representing

Australia was pretty cool.”

Mr Cosgriff said he started waterskiing when he was about 10 years old, and is currently in North Carolina training.

“My parents brought a boat when I was about 10 years old and there was a course in central Victoria that we used to do [so] I got into it that way.

“I started competing when I was about 12 years old and it’s a cool [sport], it’s pretty exhilarating and keeps you on your toes.

“I was meant to go to an [international] torment but COVID-19 happened so it’s pretty cool to get to go to this one … [and] I’m doing more training at the moment in the warmer weather in North Carolina.”

Zoe Moffatt

The Sunbury Senior Citizens Centre will receive upgrades including multi-use spaces, new kitchen layout and coffee space, and improved outdoor spaces. (Supplied)

Supporting students during transition and beyond

Sacred Heart College Kyneton is a Catholic secondary school in the Mercy tradition, offering a caring and safe learning environment.

When students commence at the college as year 7s they join a community skilled in providing a carefully planned transition experience, tailored to the needs of young peoplemovingfromtheprimarytosecondary setting.

In March each year, grade 5 students from SacredHeart’sfeederCatholicschoolsvisitfor a day to get a glimpse of college life. This year they experienced a range of classes including robotics,art,hospitalityandscience.Students created LEGO robots, painted ‘Picassos’, made apricot balls, discovered some fun scientific facts, and had a session on the VR headsets – where they experienced walking through ancient Rome. They then enjoyed lunch in the Atrium and played team games with the year 9/10 Peer Support group at lunchtime – a highlight for many.

Many students and their families have visited Sacred Heart long before their commencement at the college and this provides a further opportunity for familiarisation. Some families will have taken the opportunity to attend an open evening, which showcases the variety of opportunities available in both the Junior and Senior years, while others have taken advantage of the regular college tours to get a better insight into facilities, subjects, and broader opportunities.

Year 7 students begin the school year with a wellbeing day. This day is set aside for getting to know one another, as well as the homeroom teacher and other staff. They are welcomed through the Mercy doors of the chapel by year 12 students who form a guard of honour outside its entrance. This

is followed by an amazing day at Melton Wave Pool to strengthen newly formed friendships. Early in term one, the year 7s attend a three-day team-building camp in Kinglake, providing opportunities to develop friendships with those from other classes, while having fun and developing skills and teamwork beyond the classroom. Other

Learn. Care.

highlights on the transition calendar are the Peer Support Program and the college swimming and athletics carnivals, where the house spirit is clearly on display and enjoyed by all.

Those in the local community currently considering options for their children’s secondary journey are encouraged to learn

more about the diverse educational offerings of Sacred Heart College Kyneton, by visiting the college website, or attending one of the regular college tours.

Further information is provided on the college website: www.shckyneton.catholic. edu.au

Sacred Heart College Kyneton is a Catholic secondary school in the Mercy tradition. (Pictures: Supplied)

MY PLACE

Kyneton local and Medal of the Order of Australia recipient Leslie Binns tells Zoe Moffatt about his time spent in the film industry.

Tell us a bit about yourself and what you do?

I am a production designer for film and television, and I began my career as an illustrator and commercial artist. I exhibited my satirical drawings in well known Brisbane and Sydney galleries. I have also worked on theatrical productions throughout my career.

What is your connection to Kyneton and what do you like about where you live?

I grew up in the country and love it. It is easy to keep up my contacts from here in Kyneton. Where is your favourite local place to spend time?

My favourite places to visit are our main regional art galleries.

What, if anything, would you change about where you live?

Agreatdisappointmenttomeandmanyothers here was the loss of the original lost trades fair from Kyneton. I felt we had more variety of specialist artisans, including international guests. I would also like to see rural land more protected from excessive development.

Tell us something people would be surprised to know about you?

People might be surprised to know that after working in Kenya, Africa, I spent most of my free time with the Masai people. I helped them to build a cultural centre in the form of a village (boma). It was used for the sale of their artefacts and crafts and was a venue for their traditional dance. For this I was honoured by thechiefoftheMasaiwhoformerlyannounced me as an elder for life.

You have an impressive history in the production industry, what has been a favourite film you have worked on?

Ihaveworkedonmanywellknownproductions.

I enjoyed the making of the ManfromSnowy River , I was thrilled with it’s success both here and internationally. The Americans regarded it as a ‘great western’. From a design point of view the ‘Hallmark series’ of MobyDick was

the largest logistical challenge of my career, as the Melville’s story was set in the ocean. I had to build a vast horizon lake in which a full size whaling ship, the Pequot was entirely built. Thelakecontainedwavemakersandwebuilt tracks for the prop whales to surface and dive

from.Thebuiltsetrepresentedthewharvesand township of Nantucket, USA.

The budget and logistics of MobyDick was quite difficult. My work on this project was celebrated by the nomination for an Emmy award.

Primates share treetop picnics

Werribee Open Range Zoo’s troop of Vervet monkeys are taking Melbourne’s chilly conditions in their stride, leaping into the treetops to dine on a picnic feast.

The nimble primates are masterfully scaling crossing-ladders and five-metre-tall trees in highwindstoreachhangingbasketsfilledwith an assortment of tasty treats.

WerribeeOpenRangeZooAfricanrivertrail keeper Kieralie Braasch said encouraging the monkeys to climb in challenging conditions replicates what the species experiences in the wild.

“Vervet monkeys are a semi-arboreal species, which means they do a lot of foraging both on the ground and in trees,” Ms Braasch said.

“Any opportunity to practise climbing in the wind is important as this helps the monkeys maintain and build their muscle and joint strength to safely navigate those high-reaching areas.”

Ms Braasch said the curious monkeys enthusiastically tuck into their treats.

“The baskets can be filled with a variety of grains, seeds, nuts and leafy branches,” Ms Braasch said.

“Onoccasion,wealsoprovideotherdelicious treats like rice bubbles. These simulate the texture of grains and seeds and the sweet taste of fruits they’d encounter in the wild.

“The Vervets also enjoy when we smear peanut butter on surfaces throughout their habitat too.”

The species’ habitat ranges across eastern Africa, from the Ethiopian Highlands and southern Somalia, to southern-most South

Africa. While they are considered locally abundant in some regions, populations are declining due to habitat destruction, with the monkeys now absent from large areas of their original geographic range.

Werribee Open Range Zoo’s nine Vervet

monkeys are an ambassador species for Zoos Victoria’s Coffee for Wildlife initiative providing caffeine-loving Melburnians with a delicious way to help save wildlife.

Visitors are able to see the troop of Vervet monkeys along the zoo’s African river trail.

Vervet Monkeys enjoying enrichment items. (Supplied)

(Damjan Janevski) 340486_01

Giving students a voice

The national My First Speech competition has been launched, with McEwen MP Rob Mitchell encouraging students to participate.

The competition challenges students in years 10, 11 and 12 to imagine they have just been elected to Parliament and record a 90-second speech on a topic they are passionate about.

Mr Mitchell said the competition is a great opportunity for students to get involved in parliament and highlight the issues that are important to them.

“The My First Speech competition is a great way for our future community leaders to have a say in our national parliament,” he said.

“The competition asks [students] … to consider what they would say if they were a newly elected member of the House of Representatives.

“Three lucky students [will win] the opportunity to fly to Canberra and present their speeches live.

“I encourage all schools to promote the competition to eligible students, and the students to take on this opportunity to have the issues most important to them heard at the highest level.”

The winners, along with a parent or a guardian, will be flown to Canberra to deliver their speeches at Parliament House. They will also participate in a program to deepen their understanding of legislative processes.

Fraser MP Dr Daniel Mulino and Speaker of the House of Representatives Milton Dick launched the competition, and Dr Mulino said the competition is a great opportunity for local students to gain experience.

“The students participating in this competition will be our local leaders of tomorrow,” Dr Mulino said.

“The experience they will gain from just taking part will give them a head start on their future.”

Briefs

July benefits for McEwen

McEwen residents are set to benefit from cheaper child care, changes to paid parental leave, and increases to Medicare rebates from July. In an announcement on Thursday, July 6, McEwen MP Rob Mitchell said that many key promises are now a reality. “[This includes] changes to paid parental leave, which gives families greater flexibility when they need it most,” Mr Mitchell said. “I am particularly excited about our cheaper child care initiatives – which see the child care subsidy increase for around 5600 families in McEwen.”

Online farm business program

Agriculture Victoria is offering farmers an opportunity to participate in a free online business program to help manage climate risks. In an announcement on July 11, Agriculture Victoria said the online program will commence in late July, and is suitable for livestock, grains, mixed farmers, horticulturalists and apiarists. Project leader Kit Duncan-Jones said participants will improve their skills and knowledge to better prepare for and manage risk, adapt to change and strengthen their farm businesses.

Details: www.agriculture.vic.gov.au/ FBRP

FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au

Sunbury & Macedon Ranges Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

REQUIRED REQUIRED

McEwen MP Rob Mitchell encouraged students to participate in the My First Speech competition. (Supplied)

Jodie takes charity run to heart

By Cade Lucas

Of the 20,000 runners who competed in the Run Melbourne fundraising event on July 16, nearly all were doing so for a cause close to their heart.

For most, that’s simply a metaphor.

For Jodie Ainsworth, the meaning is literal.

“Ihadfluidallaroundmyheartandmyorgans were shutting down,” said the 44-year-old mother of the health ordeal that began two years ago and resulted in her spending months at The Alfred hospital fighting for her life.

It’s The Alfred that Ms Ainsworth had in mind when she walked on Sunday, having already raised more $1600 for the hospital where she still receives treatment.

It’s that ongoing treatment and recovery that means Ms Ainsworth completed the course which began and ended at Melbourne Park, rather more slowly than most others.

“I won’t be running, I’ll be doing the 5.2km run but I’ll just be walking it,” Ms Ainsworth told StarWeeklybefore the event.

That she can still walk at all is itself a remarkable feat of endurance.

Since her health began to unravel in September 2021, Ms Ainsworth has not only narrowly escaped death – “I was only given a 2 per cent chance of survival” – but lost almost all the bodily functions most adults take for granted.

Ironically, it was after finally being admitted to hospital in Werribee in May 2022 that the gravity of her situation became clear.

“I went downhill really quickly and they put me in an induced coma and sent me to The Alfred two days later,” said Ms Ainsworth, who would remain in a coma for more than a week and in The Alfred ICU for the next two and a half months.

Doctors eventually diagnosed an adverse

reaction and with her condition stabilised, she was able to leave ICU and begin a recovery that’s included learning to walk, shower and feed herself again.

Only last month did she return to work at a kindergarten in Tarneit.

As far as she has come, Ms Ainsworth knows

some things won’t recover.

“My kidney function is only 50 per cent and it won’t get better.

“It’s gonna be something that I live with for the rest of my life.”

However she retains hope that others will.

After upcoming heart surgery, Ms

Playful start back to school

Sunbury and Macedon Ranges Specialist School students have had a playful start back to school with the recent launch of the school’s new playground.

The recently finished playground is at the Sunbury campus, and the students have enjoyed trying out the new equipment.

School principal Joanne Nolan said the inclusive playground is an update from the previous one which was about 20 years old.

“The kids love it … it’s a safe and inclusive playground for kids of all abilities to access,” Mrs Nolan said.

“We can use [the playground] to undertake sometherapy,likephysio…whichcansupport kids to develop their mobility skills.

MrsNolansaiditcanalsobeusedinteaching to help develop students’ play skills.

Zoe Moffatt

Ainsworth hopes to actually be able to run in Run Melbourne next year.

With the renewed outlook the last two years have given her, she’s every chance.

“Don’t take life for granted, live each day like it’s your last because it could be.”

Sunbury and Macedon Ranges Specialist School students enjoy the new playground.

Above: Beau, Giovanni, Denali, Braydon, and Ella and Jacob (on ground), pause playing to pose for the camera. (Pictures: Ljubica Vrankovic) 346467

Jodie Ainsworth walked the Run Melbourne course to raise money for The Alfred after being in an induced coma there last year. (Damjan Janevski) 344333

‘‘ “Don’t take life for granted, live each day like it’s your last because it could be ’’

- Jodie Ainsworth

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Star Weekly looks back through the pages of our predecessors

35 years ago

July 19, 1988

A series of elaborate ‘smash and grab’ raids in Gisborne have kept local police on constant call. Police report almost $24,784 worth of goods were taken in the daring robberies last week.

30 years ago

July 20, 1993

There will be some winners and some losers from the new scale of user pays water and sewerage charges just endorsed by the Macedon Region Water Authority at the end of its tariff reform exercise.

20 years ago

July 15, 2003

Prime Minister John Howard’s visit to Mt Macedon and Woodend on Wednesday was the first prime ministerial visit to the area since Bob Hawke presented a cheque at the Kyneton saleyards in March 1987.

10 years ago

July 16, 2013

3NRG FM manager Mike Cherriman gives the thumbs-up in recognition of the radio station’s silver jubilee this Saturday.

Jack embraces his fighting spirit

Jack Jenkins’ rise in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) has shown the world that he is no underdog. Jenkins spoke to Liam McNally from Las Vegas when he was just off the back of his June 25 UFC win against Jammall Emmers in Jacksonville, Florida.

From a young age, Jack “Pharjack” Jenkins knew he had the talent to make the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC).

The Bacchus Marsh fighter’s rise has been littered with bouts in which he has been proving to the world that he is no underdog.

Now he is preparing to cement that in the minds of the fighting world in his third UFC featherweight fight in Sydney on September 10.

Jenkins described his upbringing as a typical Bacchus Marsh childhood, with his parents and three siblings. His early interests in sport wereAussierulesandrugby,butitwasatage13 his brother’s interest in kickboxing influenced Jenkins to start training at Ziggys Gym in Maddingley.

A couple of years later, a mixed martial arts (MMA)gymopenedinMelton,Metamorphica, and the keen 15-year-old would have his brother, Ben, drop him off there on his way to work with the Melton police, and pick him up after his shift finished.

Jenkins said Metamorphica is where his life-path was forged.

“[Metamorphica owners] Heath and Kelly Attard are exceptional people. Ben and I formed a really good relationship with them,” he said.

“Heath would coach me in the morning and then he would take me back to his house and he’d feed me, let me play the Xbox, and then he would take me back to the afternoon classes.”

“That set the foundation for me … Heath told me from an early stage that I had the talent and the drive to get to the UFC, that set me on path to where I am now.”

At 21, Jenkins returned to Australia from a stint living in Canada, which is when he decided it was “go time” for his MMA career.

He went straight into the professional fighting in Australia’s Hex Fight League, and in his first three fights earned three first-round wins.

He suffered two losses in his next two bouts, after which he said Attard “graciously” decided Jenkins needed to find a gym that had a bigger stable of fighters and had the scope to take him to a higher level.

Jenkins joined Absolute MMA, beginning with a scholarship in Thailand, then at its gym in Collingwood where Simon Carson and Andrew Colgrave were “big catalysts” in instigating the nine-fight winning streak that he is still on.

Jenkins said the next big turning point in his career was getting the call to fight Diego “El Pantera Negra” Pereira for the Australian title in 2020, with just two weeks’ notice.

“I was the big underdog,” he said.

“The way the commentators were talking was essentially that it was Diego’s night to win his title and I was just there to be the canon fodder.

“I obviously had different ideas about that. I wentintothatfightwithareallyviolentattitude and I ended up breaking his jaw and breaking his leg and finishing him in the fourth round. At that point, people started to pay attention.”

Jenkins defended his title over the next two years, breaking more opponents legshe’s currently at five of his last seven fights -

including taking revenge against Jesse Medina, the victor from Jenkins’ first MMA loss.

“I took every fight opportunity I could get, every training opportunity I could get … When I could, I was sleeping on the floor at the gym…Whentheopportunitytofightcameup I was making sure I was ready,” he said.

Jenkins said this period of his career culminated in March, 2022 when he was matched against Rod Costa, who was on a big fight winning streak.

“I opened as a 2.60 underdog,” he said.

“I met the bookmaker who was doing the odds for that and I said ‘hey, your analysts have got this wrong, I should be a 1.50 favourite’.

“So I ended up putting on my social media, ‘everyone go put a big bet on me because I’m gonna smoke this guy’. So many people put this bet on that they actually closed the market down and stopped allowing bets on me.”

Jenkins said he dismantled Costa over five rounds and that was when he was told he was ready for the world scene.

Jenkins’ first international fight was in Dana White’s Contender series, in which regional superstars get one chance to prove themselves in a fight. He said his gritty third round total knockout earned him a UFC contract.

“It’s just like, validation from 10 or more years of work. I’d been training for most of my life and you sacrifice…I missed out on weddings, I missed out on going out with my friends, I missed out on family events and you do that all with the chance you still might not ever get there,” he said.

Jenkins said one of the best moments of career was in February this year, walking out for is first UFC fight against Don Shainis in Perth.

“I was a bit nervous out the back and then as soon as my music came on and I started walking, the crowd just erupted, it was so loud in there, the ground was shaking when I

walked out,” he said.

“I couldn’t wipe the smile off my face. That point for me was the culmination of it, and it made all [the work] completely worth it.”

The match ended with Jenkins’ first UFC win, and another opponent with a broken leg.

On June 25, Jenkins had his second UFC bout against Jamall Emmers in Jacksonville, Florida.

Jenkins won by split decision, but wasn’t confident the vote would go his way.

“It was a really close fight, it was a bit of a chess match,” he said.

“I’m not gonna say I’m wrapped with the performance because I expect a little bit better of myself… but I’m happy I got the win.

“I took a lot from it as a learning experience and a growth experience, being in there with a guy who was so good and getting a full 15 minutes with him.”

Now, Jenkins’ eyes are on Sydney where he aims to give a “breakout performance” on September 10.

“...Where I can really start to show people that I’m world-class and I’m going to be one of those top guys for a long time.”

Jenkins said MMA fighting is “simultaneously the scariest thing and the best thing that you could ever do”, but in between all the adrenaline, his hometown still keeps him grounded.

“In some ways [life since joining the UFC has] changed drastically and then in others it’s exactly the same,” he said.

“I pretty much know everyone I see in Bacchus Marsh anyway and they’ve all known me since I was a kid so nobody treats me any differently there, and at the gym we’re all on that same path.”

“I’m just managing to keep my head down and sticking to the formula that got me here rather than trying to change or get my head up in the clouds.”

Jack Jenkins. (Jacob Pattison) 347351_01

Jack Jenkins fighting Jamall Emmers on June 25. (Supplied)

‘‘ I went into that fight with a really violent attitude ... At that point, people started to pay attention ’’ - Jack Jenkins

Safety service marks one year

A new service to stamp out unwanted sexual behaviour on public transport has received more than 1500 notifications in its first year. STOPIT, a text-based notification service, launched on July 11 last year to help combat sexual offending on public transport and give commuters greater confidence when they travel.

It’s the first service of its kind in Australia.

Victoria Police analysis shows more than 40 per cent of notifications to STOPIT related to threatening and offensive behaviour such as verbal abuse and harassment.

Almost one in five notifications related to

unwanted sexual behaviour. This can include catcalling, sexual gestures, non-consensual touching and flashing.

Since inception STOPIT has led to 13 arrests, including a 24-year-old man who was charged after performing allegedly explicit acts and making inappropriate sexual comments towards a woman on a city-bound Werribee line train on November 11 last year.

Another arrest was a 33-year-old man charged after two witnesses saw him allegedly perform an explicit act towards a woman on a city-bound Sunbury line train on September

6. Both witnesses notified police through

Unearthing family ties

While NAIDOC Week has come to a close, one Riddells Creek resident has used the time to reflect on Indigenous heritage and how his life has been shaped by Australia’s past.

Allity Riddell Gardens aged care resident Steve Parsons said being Indigenous became partofhisidentitylaterinlife,afterhismother died in the 1990s.

“My two older sisters knew that we had Indigenous heritage but my older brother, younger sister and I weren’t really ever told,” Mr Parsons said.

“I’m not sure why, but that’s just how it was … I always had a bit of an idea, but it wasn’t until mum passed away when I was in my 40s that we were officially told.

“Mum never touched on anything at all and we never lived that life.”

Mr Parsons said his family started to look into their mother’s history as an Indigenous woman and they found out that she was a part

of the Stolen Generation.

“My mum grew up in Barrow Creek in the Northern Territory and from there she went into an orphanage in Adelaide,” he said.

“For me, it wasn’t until I worked on the wharf in Port Hedland at Western Australia in my20sthatIstartedtorealiseIhadsomething in me.

“[This was] because of how similar the colour of my skin was to the Indigenous fellows I worked with.”

Mr Parsons said he was able to learn more about his family history after his sister connected with their extended family.

“One of my sisters ended up working in Alice Springs within the community and found a lot out about our family.

“She found different relations that we never realised we had from mum’s side.”

STOPIT. The man was also charged with committinganindictableoffencewhileonbail.

A number of separate notifications remain under investigation by detectives.

Women and girls have made up more than half of people using STOPIT, with all notifications reviewed and assessed by a dedicated team of transit police.

Many are then escalated to detectives at the Transit Crime Investigation Unit for investigation.

Information received also gives police a broader picture about behaviour across the public transport network, be it a particular

train line or time of day.

To use the service commuters simply text ‘STOPIT’ to 0499 455 455.

The service is not monitored live and should not be used if an urgent response is needed.

Transit Safety Division inspector Mark Zervaas thanked anyone who used STOPIT over the last 12 months.

“Every piece of information received has helped us make the network a safer place for all commuters. Without STOPIT, more than a dozen investigations may have never been solved,” he said.

We buy Gold, Antiques & Contemporary Jewellery in Gold, Diamonds, Silver, Sovereigns, Precious Stones including broken Jewellery & Watches.

HOW DO I DO THIS? Your Questions Answered WHY SELL?

Show your items to our expert buyers. After we have calculated the price based on its resale value, you can then decide to sell them to us or just walk away with a free assessment of your jewellery!

Is it worth keeping old jewellery that you will never wear again? The extra cash may help now or in the future rather than unwanted jewellery sitting in your drawer!

Zoe Moffatt Steve Parsons said being Indigenous became part of his identity later in life. (Supplied)

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Amateur Radio Club

The Macedon Ranges Amateur Radio Club meets on the third Saturday of the month at the Woodend RSL Hall, 32 Anslow Street, Woodend at 10am. If you are interested in amateur radio or already have a call sign the club would love to meet you.

■ http://www.mrarc.org.au

Take off weight naturally

Struggling to lose weight? Struggling to get motivated? Want to try and do it in a friendly and less stressful atmosphere? Come and join TOWN (Take Off Weight Naturally) every Thursday at 9am at the Sunbury Neighbourhood House, 531 Elizabeth Drive, Sunbury.

■ Rhonda, 0409 740 924

Kyneton Badminton Club

Kyneton Badminton Club is a welcoming, fun and social group that plays on Mondays, at 7pm, at the Kyneton Toyota Sports and Aquatic Centre in Victoria Street. Players of all skill levels welcome.

■ kynetonbc@gmail.com

Macedon Ranges Masonic Lodge

Meets monthly on the first Thursday of the month at 7.30pm, 73 Main Street, Romsey. New members welcome.

■ Wayne, 0404 034 737, or Ian, 0438 240 402

Sunbury Art Society

The Sunbury Art Society meets each Friday and Saturday, from 10am-3pm, at the Boilerhouse, Jacksons Hill, to paint or draw over a cuppa with other like minded people.

■ Ken, 0407 062 568, or Robyn, 0438 383 639

Crafternoon

Get crafty over a cuppa at a social group for adults. Some supplies and equipment are available or bring your own projects and craft items. Every Tuesday at 1pm-3pm during school terms, all welcome. Sunbury Neighbourhood House, 531 Elizabeth Drive, Sunbury.

■ www.sunburyhouse.com.au

Music and singalong

Bring your instrument or your voice to a social group for adults, all skill sets welcome. Wednesdays, 9am-noon, at Sunbury Neighbourhood House, 531 Elizabeth Drive, Sunbury.

■ www.sunburyhouse.com.au

Local camera club

The Macedon Ranges Photographic Society is your local camera club for friendship, photographic outings, workshops, guest presenters, competitions and more. Meetings on the first Tuesday of the month, followed by the next Monday. Doors open at 7pm, meeting starts at 7.30pm at Dromkeen, 1012 Kilmore Road, Riddells Creek.

■ https://bit.ly/41j5BEw

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.

■ Lesley, 0484 691 226

Carer connect chat

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 rebecca.lees@scchc.org.au

Village connect

Enjoy free coffee and cake while connecting with fellow Macedon Ranges residents 55 years-old and older. Happening on Tuesdays and Thursday at cafes across the municipality.

■ https://bit.ly/3AMUrxm, or 5422 0262

Arts and games night

Get creative at the Sunbury Youth Centre each Wednesday, from 3.30pm to 5.30pm. The free program is for people aged 12 to 18 years old, at 51-53 Evans Street, Sunbury.

HarmoniX Vocal Company

All-male singing group happening on Thursday, 7- 9.30pm, in Sunbury, with a mixed choir, DynamiX Vocal Company, rehearsing Tuesday, 7-9.30pm. Rehearse at Dulap Wilim Hub, 11 Leichardt Street, Sunbury. No auditions required.

■ harmonixvcinc@gmail.com

Jacksons Creek Combined Probus

Visit or join the club which gathers on the second Monday of each month at the Sunbury Bowling Club at 10am. Enjoy outings, meetings and trips away.

■ Doug, 5428 3317, or Teresa, 0417 373 006

Craft and conversation

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

Chill Out Sunbury is a free event for 12 and 18 years old to participate in activities such as trivia, games, and more. Happening every Wednesday, 3.30-5.30pm at the Sunbury Youth Centre, 51-53 Evans Street.

■ https://bit.ly/3lmVgVhv

Sunbury Ladies Badminton Club

Come along and be part of Sunbury

Ladies Badminton Club and enjoy the benefits of physical activity. Social games are on Mondays, 9.30am to noon, and team competitions are on Thursdays, 9.30am-12.30pm at Eric Boardman Stadium, Wilsons Lane.

■ sunburylbc@gmail.com

Come have a chat

Delve into deeper topics and enjoy intriguing conversations by joining the Table 8 Discussion Group. Chats every Tuesday, from 10.30 to 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 your own family history, come along to meetings 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

Rotary club

The Sunbury Rotary Club meets every Tuesday at the Ball Court Hotel, 60 Macedon Street, Sunbury, 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.

■ 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.

■ 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

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 (55 or older) 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.

■ 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 visitors and new members, with a number of great events held each month.

■ Greg, 0417 593 035

CWA Woodend Eves

The CWA Woodend Eves Branch is part of the Central Highlands group and meets every third Tuesday at 7pm at the Woodend Neighbourhood house. All women are welcome.

■ cwawoodendeves@gmail.com

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

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Point Cook personal trainer Chevy Lowndes who collects sneakers and gives them to homeless people (Damjan Janevski). 346254_01

PUZZLES

SUDOKU

No. 4279 3 52 78 9 231

QUICK CROSSWORD

1 Condiment (7)

5 Advise (7)

9 Exactly the same (9)

598 2 93 52 87 39 4

easy 62 5 6 254 9 94 8

74 36 7149

8291 72 16

hard

57 187 2 35 79

medium 61 35 16

47 32 8 326 24

DECODER WORDFIT

9-LETTER WORD

15 words: Good

23 words: Very good

31 words: Excellent

U H S

L E

E

I N G B N

begin, begun, being, bend, bending, benign, bide, binge, binged, binned, budge, bunged, debug, deign, dine, dune, ending, enduing, ennui, gibe, gibed, ginned, guide, gunned, indue, nine, nude, nudge, unbend, UNBENDING, unending

No. 142

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”. D N S E R

QUICK QUIZ

F N S S W E A R C H A S E O A T H S F L E E T F E N D S

2 Who were the invading force that utilised the wooden horse to enter Troy?

3 What is the name for the Japanese art of repairing pottery with gold?

4 What is the title of influential sci-fi author William Gibson’s 2020 novel?

5 Oxides of which two metals are used in most sunscreens?

6 Which group performs the rap breaks in the Gorillaz song Feel Good Inc?

7 Which Japanese garage punk trio played themselves in the 1999 film Wild Zero?

8 Which Celtic mythological creature shares its name with a breed of dog?

9 What year was Al Green (pictured) ordained as a minister?

10 Anton Szandor LaVey founded which religious institution?

No. 142

No. 142

No. 142

Nissan Micra 2007-2016

USED CAR CHECKOUT

Ewan Kennedy, Marque Motoring

NissanMicraisastylishlittlecitycarthatlooks just right in the crowded cities all over the world. Mitsubishi is master at small cars and the Micra is one of the best it has ever penned.

There’s pretty good interior space for a car in this class. Rear seat legroom is acceptable to most adults, but the right-rear seat space will depend on how tall the driver is.

The sloping roof can cause hassles for taller passengers. It’s sold as a five-door hatch, in a market segment where many lower priced hatches only have three.

Cleverly,therearseatslidesbackandforward to let you juggle passenger / luggage room.

AlthoughimportsoftheNissanMicraceased in2016,therearestillplentyofgoodonesinthe used car market as they are well built and are standing up to the test of time.

October 2010 saw the introduction of an all-new Micra, styling took a similar theme to its ancestors. A major facelift in April 2015 saw everything forward of the Micra’s windscreen renewed.Thedoorandseattrimswererestyled, as were the instruments and central cluster.

The Micra is generally used as a city car but can cruise on the open road and motorways without really feeling out of place. Corrugated dirt road can trouble the little car, which is not really a criticism as they were never intended to be used for that.

On-road dynamics are safe and competent but it would take a stretch of the imagination to call the Micra exciting to drive. A good set of tyres can give it a surprisingly good feel.

Nissan Micra is simple to drive thanks to excellentall-roundvisibilityandatightturning circle. The steering is light and responsive as the little Nissan is engineered to suit European drivers.

The 2007 Micra is powered by a 1.4-litre petrol engine that drives through a four-speed automatic so performance is on the dull side. Fourth gear can be locked out if you are travelling on hilly and/or winding roads. There is no option of a manual gearbox in this Micra model.

The new model of late 2010 has a choice of a 1.2-litre three-cylinder engine, or a 1.5-litre four-cylinder. A manual gearbox was offered for the first time, it has five forward ratios. However, the automatic transmission is dragging the chain and still only had four speeds.

The 1.2 engine works fine around town, but you’re probably better off with the 1.5 if you plan touring in the country.

Nissan has been well established in Australia since the early 1960s (back then it as called Datsun). There are plenty of dealers, including good representation in country areas due to Nissan’s strength in 4WDs in Oz.

You may not find less-common spare parts

for the little Micra sitting on shelves of Nissan dealers in the bush, but these can generally be shipped out within a couple of working s.

Parts prices and servicing costs are reasonably low.

A good home mechanic can do routine work on a Nissan Micra and the underbonnet area isn’t overly crowded for this class. Have a workshop manual on hand. Please leave all safety related items to professional mechanics.

Long term service records from a Nissan dealership or an independent professional with Nissan experience may well add to the price of ausedMicra,butmanyfeelthisisaworthwhile investment. Keeping them up to date will help resalevaluewhenitcomestimeforyoutomove on.

Insurance costs for the Nissan Micra are aboutaverageforthisclassofcarandwehaven’t seen big variations in premiums between the major insurers. Still, it might be worth shopping around for your individual quotes.

What to look for Lookfordamagetothewheelsandtyrescaused by clumsy parking, the front-left is usually the first to suffer.

Check for crash repairs by looking for paint colours that don’t quite match and small droplets of paint on non-painted surfaces or panels that aren’t as smooth as they should be.

Make sure the timing belt has been replaced according to the maintenance schedule as a slipping belt can cause major damage within the engine.

Be sure that the engine starts easily and settles into a steady idle within seconds of firing up.

Manual gearboxes with noisy changes and/ or that baulk on fast downshifts may be in need of an overhaul. Or it could be a clutch problem - check before you buy.

Listen for a clicking sound from the front wheel hubs when the Micra is driven on full steering lock in either direction. This indicates worn universal joints. It’s best to do the test at very low speeds, quiet carparks are ideal.

How much?

Expect to pay from $3000 to $5000 for a pre-2012 Nissan Micra; $4000 to $7000 for a 2013 ST; $5500 to $9000 for a 2015 Ti or a 2017 ST; $7000 to $11,000 for a 2016 Ti; and $8000 to $12,000 for a 2017 Ti.

Car buying tip

If checking a used car at a dealership look at other cars on the lot. This can give you an insight to the quality of vehicles in which the dealer specialises.

RECALLS: To browse recalls on all vehicles go to the ACCC at: www.productsafety.gov.au/ products/transport/cars/

Above: 2007 Nissan Micra. Right: 2010 Nissan Micra (top), 2015 Nissan Micra. (Pictures: Supplied)

Trek drives into familiar territory

By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring

‘‘Haven’t we met somewhere before?’ sprung to mind on my first encounter with the Subaru Crosstrek, for there is a lot in common here with the company’s XV sport utility vehicle.

In fact, says Subaru, the newly named compact is the latest iteration of the popular XV, including two petrol / electric hybrid models, aimed at anyone who wants a versatile, reliable, and stylish small SUV.

Priced from $34,990, the all-wheel drive Crosstrek comes in five variants - AWD 2.0L, AWD 2.0R, AWD 2.0S, AWD Hybrid L and AWD Hybrid S - offering those with an active lifestyle a versatile, reliable, and stylish small SUV.

However, there is a major point of difference between the Crosstrek and its antecedent. The Crosstrek has benefitted greatly from a visit to the doctor - a whole team of medics, in fact. Subaru collaborated with a medical school to study the structure of the human body and what causes driver discomfort, fatigue and lower back pain behind the wheel.

Results found ride comfort is not solely affected by the vibration of the vehicle, but also by sounds and changes in visual information because of jerking and head swaying during driving.

Hence seats have been redesigned to reduce shaking of the head and roof damping has been improved to help reduce sound pressure fluctuations in the cabin.

Meanwhile, vehicle health is in the hands of Subaru’s standard five-year / unlimited kilometre warranty and 12 months complimentary Subaru Roadside Assistance.

The mid-range Crosstrek AWD 2.0R, selling for $38,490, plus on-road costs, was the test vehicle for a week and confidently took on widely varied road and weather conditions well during that time.

Styling

Once the domain of predominantly white or silver exteriors, or in this case ‘Subaru blue’, these days, subtle shades of colour are taking to streets around the world. Take for example the test Crosstrek with its Magnetite Grey Metallic paint job and dark machine finished 18-inch wheels. Who would have thought ‘dull’ could look so classy?

While the all-round appearance of the Crosstrek is generally a carry-over from the XV, the bonnet and radiator grille come in for a complete redesign, the latter maintaining the signature hexagonal shape, but in a larger more aggressively styled honeycomb.

Use of lightweight aluminium enables a newly designed bonnet to contribute to improved pedestrian protection with a softer headimpactzoneandasavingoftwokilograms in front fenders optimises weight distribution all round.

LED headlamps, plus cornering lights, improve visibility at night and add to power savings, while LED rear combination lamps feature a sharp 3-D C-shape. Rear-view mirrors are smaller, improving aerodynamics and presenting a less obstructive view.

Interior

The ‘doctors’ orders’ seats, clothed in premium material, provide exceptional comfort during longer drives (try 200-plus kilometres as we did), while leaving ample room for passengers to stretch out and relax.

Standard roof rails top off generous storage possibilities. However, a cramped cargo compartment weighs in at a stingy 291 litres with the rear seat backs up, and a maximum of 1278 litres with them folded. Under the floor sits a temporary spare wheel.

Infotainment

A fourth-generation infotainment system features, in the central dash, a large high-definition 11.6-inch portrait tablet-style touchscreenfocusingonentertainment,vehicle information and control switches within the centre display. Gone is the instrument strip

atop the dashboard, duplicating many of the functions displayed directly in front of the driver.

All Crosstreks feature full wireless Apple CarPlay and wired or wireless Android Auto connectivity, as well as AM, FM and Digital Radio, while WD 2.0L, 2.0R and Hybrid L come with a high-quality six-speaker system with 160 mm full range speakers in both the front and rear doors, as well as tweeters in the front instrument panel. Buyers can ‘turn up’ the sound with a premium harman / kardon systemonlyintheAWD2.0SandAWDHybrid S variants.

A 2.4-amp Type-A and one 3-amp Type-C USB port are located in front of the gearshift to power mobile devices. Two additional power supply USB ports are also provided for rear passengersatthebackendofthecentreconsole.

ForthefirsttimeinaSubaruvehicle,wireless charging of smartphones and other devices is on hand through a centre console tray.

Engines / transmissions

The petrol-only Crosstrek variants are powered by an upgraded version of Subaru’s 2.0-litre directinjectionFB20four-cylinderhorizontally opposedengine,deliveringmaximumpowerof 115 kW at 6000 rpm and top torque of 196 Nm 4000 revs.

An upgraded continuously variable transmission with more than 80 per cent new components compared with the previous generation XV, results in improved drivability. Best fuel consumption on test was a whisker under 5 litres per 100 kilometres. A combined 7.2 litres per 100 kilometres is claimed by the maker.

Subaru Crosstrek AWD 2.0L $34,990

Subaru Crosstrek AWD 2.0R $38,490

Subaru Crosstrek AWD 2.0S $41.490

Subaru Crosstrek AWD Hybrid L $39,590

Subaru Crosstrek AWD Hybrid S $45,090

SPECIFICATIONS

Subaru Crosstrek 2.0R 4-cylinder petrol, CVT automatic, AWD SUV

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

Safety

Crosstrek benefits from Subaru’s commitment to achieving no fatal road accidents in any of its vehicles by 2036 through the four pillars of primary, active, preventive and protective safety.

These already include advanced vehicle dynamics control with electronic stability control, anti-lock braking, electronic brake forcedistribution,brakeassist,tractioncontrol, active torque vectoring, a brake override and limited slip devices. Much more, no doubt, is on the way.

Driving

For some reason, the Boxer engine, on occasions, had some difficulty in settling when first accelerating, with a resulting surge in revs. A warmed-up motor showed no such stress.

At low-speed throttle openings, gear changeisinfinitelyvariableasinaconventional CVT, but at higher throttle openings it automatically adopts an eight-speed step control, creating a more conventional sound and feeling of acceleration, as well as holding engine speed higher for a sportier and more satisfying drive.

With its hallmark all-wheel drive system in fullaction,theCrosstrekhandledsomeextreme wetweatherontest,resultinginasmoothstable ride and confident handling. Not so positive was the driver monitoring system, which was able to give far from 100 per cent accuracy with its observations on distraction.

Front and rear springs and dampers have been retuned and optimised for improved ride comfortanddrivingstability,whilerecalibrated coil spring rates result in improved road bump absorption and body movement control.

Class-leading ground clearance of 220 mm encourages trips off the bitumen with rough rutted roads holding little angst for the driver. All variants feature X-Mode, a system that operates below 40 km/h and has two modes to take on deep snow and mud, or snow and dirt.

Hill Descent Control (under 20 km/h) helps maintain the speed the vehicle is travelling at ontakingthefootoffthegasorbrakingtoallow the driver to fully concentrate on steering. This operates in forward or reverse.

Summary

It seems the Crosstrek refuses to let go of the past completely with styling cues to the XV. However, there is no lagging with upgrades to tech and comfort but the underpowered engine performance has not managed to keep up.

Subaru rings the changes of the XV for its new Crosstrek compact SUV. (Pictures: Supplied)

Undefeated Tigers head to finals

By Tara Murray

After years of hard work and plenty of ups and downs, Kyneton’s women’s side will finally play finals.

The Tigers are undefeated in the Riddell District Football League this year and are premiership favourites.

For the group, playing finals is a reward for all the hard work that has been put in over the years since starting a side in 2014.

Tigerswomen’sfootballoperationsmanager and vice-captain Natalie Korinfsky said it was pretty exciting to get to this point.

“We didn’t win a game for two years,” she said.

“We have worked on creating a competitive, inclusive and respectful culture on and off the field.

“Hosting events such as Pride Cup and our first home ground Indigenous Round, coming up this weekend.

“We missed out on what should have been our first finals series last year due to administration errors and league decisions that were out of the club’s hands.

“The club has been steadily on the up over the last five years and has flourished under Phil Hawkes, Kylie Munro and Belinda Hateley as the Tigers coaching team.”

Korinfsky said the move to the RDFL this season had been a massive move in the right direction.

The club has previously played in the Central Victorian Football League Women’s competition, but joined the new RDFL competition this year.

“The RDFNL as a league has worked hard to set up the women’s comp as equal to the men’s comp from the beginning,” she

SPORTS QUIZ

1. Tennis professional Victoria Azarenka represents which Eastern European country?

2. Aussie cyclist Jai Hindley won which stage of the 2023 Tour de France?

3. Who is captain of the Australian Women’s cricket team in the 2023 Ashes Series?

said. “The team and players have appreciated their matches videoed each week and being able to reflect on stats from Premier Data to help make improvements, both with individual players and at a whole team level.

“We feel like we aren’t an afterthought, we are included, resourced and treated just like every other team in the League.

“They have been amazing to deal with from the get go, very professional and ready to consult with all the teams to ensure they make considered and well thought out decisions. It has been a wonderful experience, and we are keen to continue supporting the growth and

4. Which Australian sporting stadium recently announced a proposal for a $2.7 billion upgrade?

5. Firmin Lambot, the oldest cyclist to win the Tour de France, was from which country?

6. Who is the only Gold Coast Suns player to have won a Brownlow Medal?

Which three countries will host the 2026 FIFA World Cup?

Which Australian tennis player had her first round match at Wimbledon disrupted by protesters?

What piece of equipment was made mandatory for NFL players in 1943?

The Adelaide Thunderbirds made the 2023 Super Netball Grand Final, their first since what year?

With a scoreline of 60-59, which team did the Adelaide Thunderbirds beat in the 2023 Super Netball Grand Final?

In which year did cyclist Cadel Evans become the first Australian to win the Tour de France?

development of the league for many years to come. We can’t thank them enough for inviting our team to be part of the list for its first year.”

After the disappointment of not playing finals last season, the Tigers got to work early in the pre-season, determined not to let anointing set them back.

Korinfsky said they weren’t taking anything for granted for the rest of the season.

“Ourpreseasonstartedearly,wearetraining hard two nights a week, and have a great team of players who have bought into what we are trying to achieve.

“Phil and the coaches have us playing well

13. Headingley Cricket Ground is located in a suburb of which West Yorkshire city?

14. Which Australian golf professional won the 2023 LIV Golf London tournament?

15. Runner Ollie Hoare holds the Australian record for fastest time over what distance?

16. Which basketball player was traded from Brooklyn to Houston, Oklahoma City, then Atlanta during the 2023 NBA free agency?

17. Australian racing driver Oscar Piastri finished in what place at the 2023 British Grand Prix?

18. Whose record for most V/AFL games played by an Irish-born player did Geelong’s Zach Tuohy break?

19. During a Round 19 try celebration, players from which NRL team made fun of English cricketer Jonny Bairstow’s Ashes stumping dismissal?

20. Which five-time NBA Champion recently had an image of his girlfriend tattooed to his face?

thought out systems and structures so we are confident in taking on any team.

“Our fitness has also been a big factor in being able to run out games.

“We aren’t taking anything for granted, and we know on any given day any of the teams in the comp could beat us. We are determined to continue working hard to keep them at bay so we can take home the ultimate reward for our efforts.”

The Tigers finished the home and away season on Saturday against Romsey and the club hosting an Indigenous match.

The Tigers completed the perfect home and away season, winning 16.10 (106)-1.0 (6).

21. In what year did Andy Murray win the US Open?

22. Which US city does MLB team the Mariners and NHL team the Kraken play out of?

23. Mason Mount recently signed with which Premier League club?

24. How many shots under par is an eagle?

25. Who is the current captain of the Adelaide Thunderbirds?

26. In what year did the Carlton Football Club last win an AFL premiership?

27. True or false: volleyball and beach volleyball were introduced in the same year at the Olympics?

28. Filming for Brad Pitt’s upcoming movie took place at which sporting event recently?

29. After beating the Gold Coast Suns in Round 17, Port Adelaide extended their winning streak to how many games?

30. Which Supercars driver is currently competing in the 2023 NASCAR Cup Series?

Andy Murray

Stacee Randall. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 339859_14

New Cannons lead ready for a return to strength

New Calder Cannons regional talent operations lead Sebastian Spagnuolo wants to get the club back to being one of the powerhouses in the Coates Talent League.

Spagnuolo started at the Cannons last week, replacing Matthew Burton, who has moved on to join Carlton.

Having been at Victorian Football League clubCoburgforthepastnineyears,Spagnuolo said he was looking forward to the challenge.

“I’m really excited to have joined the Calder Cannons,” he said. “I wanted to continue to be part of the player pathway and I really enjoy the challenge.

“I wanted to stay in the region, it’s really important to me. I’m from this region, the north-west, and I’m passionate about it and the talent pathway system.

“It’s an important role to help the boys and girls where they want to go.

Spagnuolo said after nine years at Coburg andhavingheldjustabouteveryroleincluding chief executive most recently, he said it was time for a change.

He said when the opportunity came up,

it was one that he had to jump into. With the connection between Coburg and the Cannons, he’s familiar with the set up.

“There’s a long connection between the two,” he said. “They used to be co-tenants at Coburg.

“There’s been a large number of players who ended up at Coburg and played

some good football.

“Luke Ryan, Ahmad Saad played at the Cannons, then Coburg and then AFL.”

One familiar face at the Cannons for Spagnuolo is boys coach Andrew Sturgess, who previously coached at Coburg.

Spagnuolo said he was looking forward to working with Sturgess again, along with girls

Sunbury into divison 2

By Tara Murray

Sunbury’s rise up the Victorian Turf Cricket Association ranks will continue next season, with the club to play in division 2.

The Roar announced last week it had been successful in its bid to fill the vacant spot in division 2.

The club finished runners-up in division 3 last season.

Roar president Brendan Doyle said it was very exciting for the club to have this opportunity.

“It’s a fantastic opportunity,” he said. “The VTCA reached out four or five weeks ago, might have been less.

“Two clubs in division 2 had merged and created a spare position. We thought that they wouldlookatustogoupbeingtherunners-up, but they approached the three other teams that made the top four [in division 3] from last season.

“Wedidn’thesitatetolookatanopportunity like that.”

Doyle said the reaction from the playing group had been a really positive one and

they’d already seen some more interest from players in the area that aren’t at the club at the moment.

The rise to division 3 caps off a fast rise for the club which moved to the VTCA from the Gisborne and District Cricket Association for the 2019-20 season.

Only COVID-19 prevented the Roar from claiming the division 5 title in its first season, before it claimed the division 4 title the following season.

The Roar missed the division 3 finals in 2021-22, before making the grand final last season.

Doyle said they could have only dreamed of this rise when they moved to the competition.

“It’s really not that easy, but we felt that we could get to the third division quickly,” he said.

“We had absolute faith in the squad we had and the standard was set from there.

“To be in division 2, five years after starting in division 5, we could not have asked for more.”

Jace Carton will again coach the side having joined the club last season, with Doyle saying

there would be some changes to the squad but plenty of familiar faces will return.

The club is hoping to announce some new signings in the coming weeks.

On top of rising a division, the club is set to have two under-18s teams this season.

He said the second side would be more of a development side.

The club fielded an under-18 team on turf for the first time last season and it was a big success.

“It was a great season, but it was a little unfortunate that we had 14-15 players, that come finals we had to play the best team every week,” he said.

“It meant some of the kids that initially began in the squad missed out and I was disappointed for them.

“We think there is enough talent in the region through the GDCA. Players can get day permits so they can play with their own clubs on the Saturday.

“This is a platform for developing kids in the area and giving them the opportunity to play at a higher level.”

coach Ross Smith.

Coming in more than midway through the season, Spagnuolo said for now it was about getting settled in and continuing to help everyone succeed.

“I’ll play a role in the program in helping the players develop and give the staff every opportunity to succeed.

“I don’t want to come in half way through the season and make too many changes. I’m learning how the program is and learning from people in the club and AFL and seeing the boys and girls through to the draft.”

Spagnuolo said he was keen to get the Cannons back to where they should be, one of the strongest football regions.

“We’re going to look to build on what we do,” he said. “The exciting part is how strong the talent coming through this area is. Not justthisseason, but the next coupleofseasons.

“It’s an exciting time. We want the two teams to have fun and continue to develop.”

Tara Murray

Sports shorts

RDNL

Riddell continued its good form in the Riddell District Netball League, beating Romsey on Saturday. Scores were level at half time, before the Bombers shot away in the second half, winning 53-38. Madison Brown was named the Bombers best. Macedon and Woodend-Hesket also got wins, while Melton Centrals and Western Rams had a draw.

Ballarat FL

The Sunbury Lions had a day out against Melton South in the Ballarat Football League on Saturday. The Lions jumped out of the blocks and continued on throughout on the way to a 36.20 (236)-5.2 (32) win. Cody Brand and Mitch Mclean kicked five goals each for the Lions, with Harrison Minton-Connell named best on ground. The Lions remain in fifth spot, but they are now a game clear of the two teams below them.

Ballarat NL

The Sunbury Lions had a strong win against Melton South on Saturday in the Ballarat Netball League on Saturday. The Lions led by five goals at quarter time and were able to grow the lead throughout, winning 64-32. Amalani Fauonuku shot 42 goals for the Lions, while Tara O’Grady shot 17 as all nine players played half of game time. The Lions remain in fifth spot.

Bendigo

FL

Gisborne kept its small finals hopes alive with a big win against Eaglehawk on Saturday in the Bendigo Football League. The Bulldogs led by 14 points and were able to extend the lead throughout, 15.11 (101)-9.5 (59).

Bradley Bernacki, who will play the rest of the season with the Bulldogs instead of playing Victorian Football League, kicked four goals in a best on ground performance. Kyneton had a 21.14 (140)-4.9 (33). The Bulldogs have moved above the Tigers into sixth spot. Both teams are 10 points outside the top five.

FOR MORE SPORT, VISIT

Web: starweekly.com.au

Sunbury & Macedon Ranges Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Stephen Treweek. (Ivan Kemp) 323431_06

Calder Cannons girls side. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 338826_12

Bulldogs gaining knowledge from top Aus coach

Gisborne is hoping a helping hand from a former Australian coach will boost it in the back half of the Bendigo Netball League.

Commonwealth Games and World Cup winning coach Lisa Alexander is working with the club’s coaches, helping to mentor them and providing feedback.

Bulldogs coach Tarryn Rymer said before the weekend’s match, it was really exciting to have her on the side lines.

“It is pretty cool,” she said. “She gets it and only works with clubs that value netball as much as football.

“The president comes and watches the netball every week which she thinks is really good “We’ve had a couple of Zoom sessions and she’s taking training on Thursday night and will sit and mentor the coaches on game day.”

The help from Alexander came as all five Bulldogs teams sit into the top three after 11 rounds.

Rymer said they were happy with how the season had played out so far.

“It is nice,” she said. “Like everyone we’re managing injuries and people being away.

“The girls are really determined and the A-Reserve girls haven’t lost a game and the A side won by one on the weekend after coming from behind.”

The Bulldogs depth is also starting to grow as they get to the important part of the season.

Rylee Connell played her first game back in A-grade after an achilles injury which was timed perfectly with Torie Skrijel.

Tiana Newman, a Betty Thompson medallist, is back in the A squad, while Tasma Morris is killing it in A-reserve team.

“It’s really nice,” Rymer said. “The aim for the A squad, which is A-grade and A-reserve, is that we really push to get as far as we can in both sides and across all five sides.”

With all five sides sitting comfortably in the

top five, Rymer said the back end of the season was about making sure that they have all bases covered.

“We want to settle down before finals,” she said. “ We are looking at the big picture, the end game.

“We want to make sure we have running different combinations, making sure we have more than one combination that we’re relying on game day.

“We’re really having on what works best for each team and get that down pat.”

The Bulldogs faced eighth placed Eaglehawk on Saturday, coming away with a 55-22 win. In other matches, Kyneton lost to South Bendigo 49-40.

Tara Murray

Bombers hang tough

Tara Murray

Riddell’s season is back on track after a month of hard fought performances in the Riddell District Football League.

The turning point was a win against second placed Wallan, with wins against the Western Rams, Woodend-Hesket, Macedon and Romsey have since followed.

Having been outside the top five before the Magpies game, the Bombers now sit in fourth spot, three games clear of the three teams fighting for fifth spot.

Bombers coach Justin Belleville said there was a combination of factors that had seen them get back on the winners list.

“We’re travelling OK now,” he said. “We had a few players out and a few guys out.

“It helps getting better players back in, but we never made excuses for that. You’re going to have up and down parts and you can’t win every game.”

Belleville said they had continued to blood younger players with four or five players every

Kangaroos lose thriller

It was a case of close, but not close enough for the Sunbury Kangaroos in the Essendon District Football League division 2 on Saturday.

Facing Taylors Lakes at home, the Kangaroos were slow out of the blocks in the first half, trailing by 16 points at quarter time and 18 points at half time.

The margin stayed steady in the third quarter, before the Kangaroos came home strong in the final quarter.

The Kangaroos kicked four final quarter goals but fell just short, losing 7.13 (55)-8.6 (54).

Rhys Magin and Jack Vivian kicked two goals each for the Kangaroos. Tannin Wilson was named the Kangaroos best.

The loss and Coburg Districts win, leaves the Kangaroos in sixth spot, two games outside the top four.

East Sunbury had a tough run against Burnside Heights in its match.

The Bears jumped out of the blocks and led by 47 points at the first break. The Thunder was more competitive for the rest of the match, but the damage was down with the Bears winning 18.22 (130)-10.8 (68).

Mitch Church kicked four goals for the Thunder.

week. He said those young guys were starting to hit their straps as they continue to lose other players with injuries and have changes in the side.

On Saturday, the Bombers had to do it the hard way against Romsey, winning 11.9 (75)-8.8 (56).

The win didn’t appear likely at half time, with the Redbacks leading by 25 points and the Bombers having just one goal on the board.

“We couldn’t get going in the first half,” Belleville said. “They beat us at our own game.

“After half time we got things back on track and it was a good team effort in the season half after being five goals down in the first half.”

Haydn Ross kicked four goals for the Bombers, while Matthew Panuccio chipped in with two goals.

Matthew Burkett was the only multiple goal scorer for the Redbacks, with two goals.

Belleville said they didn’t have any winners in the first half, but a number of their leaders

stepped up in the second half.

Dylan Tarczon and Ben Sonogan led the way, standing up when they really needed a lift.

The Bombers have the bye this Saturday, with Belleville said it couldn’t come at a better time

He said they were hoping to get four players back from injury, but he was unsure whether they would lose anyone from the game against the Redbacks to injury.

The Bombers face top side Diggers Rest the following Saturday in a massive clash.

In other matches, the Burras overcame a scrappy first half to beat Macedon, 10.9 (69)-3.9 (27).

The Burras, who were missing a third of their best side, kicked seven goals to one after half time to come away with the win.

Wallan continued its good form, beating Melton Centrals, 9.17 (71)-7.7 (49), while Woodend-Hesket beat the Western Rams, 26.9 (165)-3.4 (23) the other game with Josh Pound kicking seven goals.

In division 1, Rupertswood got an important win against Hillside at Salesian College.

The match was close for the first three quarters, with scores level at three quarter time.

The Sharks kicked six goals to two in the final quarter to seal a 15.9 (99)-11.12 (78).

Dean Galea kicked five goals.

The Sharks now sit in third spot.

Daniel Stubbs (Ljubica Vrankovic) 347357_16

Kiralee Collings. (Joe Mastroianni). 285812_05

Dylan Tarczon grabs a strong mark surrounded by Jaxson Kinnear and Darcy Lockens and Corey Pertzel. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 347355_21