Star Weekly - Sunbury Macedon Ranges - 22nd August 2023

An artistic achiever

A Riddells Creek emerging artist, songwriter and hip-hop dancer has been hard at work preparing for his upcoming art exhibition at The Bowery Gallery in November.

Multidisciplinary artist Andrew Nicolaides works with acrylic, ink, paint pen, and felt tip marker on paper and canvas to create intricate and abstract images that merge shapes and lines.

Nicolaides, who has previously had artwork commissioned by Hume council, Maribyrnong council and an architectural firm, said creating artwork relaxes him.

“My artwork relaxes and inspires me,” he said, “I get great satisfaction seeing my finished products.”

Creative arts coach Karen Cleur said it has been a pleasure to watch Andrew grow and succeed in his creativity.

“His confidence has flourished and his standard of artwork has gone to the next level,” Cleur said.

Nicolaides hosts a podcast about cooking, songwriting, art work and what inspires him. He will also feature in an upcoming performance by Sunbury-based inclusive theater company, BoilOver, and will release a five-song CD later in the year.

Fueling good behaviour

By Zoe Moffatt

For most drivers being pulled over by the police does not result in a pat on the back or reward of a fuel voucher for good behaviour.

However this may soon change for Hume residents under a council-proposed reward and recognition program.

Councillor Jack Medcraft is driving the proposal and raised a notice of motion on August 14 for council to investigate the feasibility and merit of a council-led, safe driver reward and recognition program.

“What I propose here is we give the police

… 100 fuel vouchers to give out to drivers … as they’re driving for good driving performance,” Cr Medcraft said.

“It’s going to be quite funny … when some oftheyoungonesgetpulledup…and[police say] you used your indicator, you stuck in the left lane, you drove well, here’s a $50 voucher.

“We’vehaddiscussionswithpoliceoverthe rising road toll and bad driving habits that we’ve seen.”

Sunbury Residents Association (SBA) president Graham Williams said the motion raises some questions but the SBA looks forward to seeing the full report.

“We cannot see where obeying the road laws in the normal course of driving requires a reward,” Mr Williams said. “It would also raise questions about where the police resources are allocated.”

At the meeting, Cr Naim Kurt supported the motion but questioned the role of the police in the program and said it is probably better the state government rolls out a program like this.

“Police forces at the moment are really overwhelmed … overworked … [and] overstretched,” Cr Kurt said.

“I don’t know whether they’ve got the

capacity to go out and be giving vouchers to people whilst we’re also expecting them to follow up the crime issues as well.

“If this was to be a program … it’s probably better [the state government] foot something like this … but I like the idea of it and seeing what we can do to reward safe drivers.”

Council will prepare a report into the program’s feasibility, as well as costs and possible funding pathways at the next council meeting, which is set to take place on August 28.

Victoria Police said it was aware of the proposalbutwouldnotcommentatthistime.

Andrew Nicolaides with his painting. (Damjan Janevski) 353605_04

More awards for Hume residents

By Zoe Moffatt

Hume residents will now be able to get a letter from the mayor for a significant milestone, under the latest changes to council awards and recognitions.

AtitsmeetingonMonday,August14,council voted to implement a mayoral recognition program and annual community awards, which follows the rebranding of councils Australia Day Awards in 2022.

Councillor Naim Kurt said he is excited to see the recognition program start up and the return of the Hume awards.

“We are now making [the awards] into a much bigger event with more categories and I’m really looking forward to seeing our community members recognised,” Cr Kurt said.

“We will be going out to the community and asking them to nominate people and [I’m] looking forward to seeing all of those hidden heroes in the community being recognised and celebrated. In addition, pending council approval, a new website will be launched which allows members of the community to nominate residents who should be recognised for celebrating milestones.”

Council said community feedback was sought on category nominations in May and June, and 52 responses were received.

Residents who win a community award will also receive $500, and the event has been accounted for in the 2023-24 budget.

The eight categories include; academic excellence, advocacy and social justice, arts and creative expression, community service excellence, environmental stewardship, multicultural community leadership, outstanding community leadership, and sports and recreation achievement.

The award selection panel will consist of

Kismet kids dive into Story Land

Kismet Park Primary School students are busy preparing for their upcoming school production, which will explore a world of imagination and wonder.

The production, Kismet in Story Land, will be held at the school on September 6 and 7, for a matinee and evening show.

Performing arts teacher Karen Bodilly said the production has provided an important opportunity for students to increase their involvement and engagement in their learning.

“We try to have a lot of student voice at our school, and they have had quite a bit of direction in [the production],” Ms Bodilly said.

“We feel at Kismet that if the kids have more advocacyovertheirownlearningtheyaremore engaged … [and] it boosts their investment.”

Formostofthe475students,KismetinStory Land is their first opportunity to participate in a school production following COVID-19 lockdowns.

“Everyone was invited to participate … [and] there was a lot of excitement when [we] announced the theme,” Ms Bodilly said.

“It’s a really great community event, it’s been greattogetthecommunitybacktogetheragain after covid.”

Ms Bodilly said the production follows

the eight lead actors who discover the power of literature and explore a world filled with imagination and wonder.

“We started putting it together at the start of term two and then we’ve scripted it and have dedicatedallperformingartssessionstoit,”she said.

“We have older kids mentoring our littlies which is just beautiful to see…. [and] it’s a really exciting first time opportunity for three quarters of the school.”

Details: 9744 4566

the mayor, deputy mayor, two independent community representatives, and an officer representing council.

Cr Jim Overend said it was great to see the recognition expand through the different award categories.

“It’s great to see acknowledgement going out there to eight different groups across the board, so not sticking to one area, it goes right across,” hesaid.“Alsoacknowledgingspecialeventslike hundred birthdays I think that all adds to it.”

Council said the funding for the mayoral recognition program is also in the ‘23-24 budget.

Calls for more pokie reform

Hume council will call for a review on the redistribution mechanism of the tax break scheme for club-based poker machine operators.

Mayor Joseph Haweil raised a notice of motion at the council meeting on August 14, for council to write to the Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) on October 13, about the scheme.

The motion requests the MAV calls on the state government to review the redistribution mechanism of the Community Benefits Statements to ensure gambling losses are directly invested back into the community.

Speaking at the council meeting, Cr Haweil said the vast majority of claims are not being reinvested into the community.

“Council officer analysis found the vast majority of those claims are being claimed for operational costs,” he said.

“What we are calling for is the state government to close this colossal rort and loophole that … is a very well known loophole across the local government and taxation sector.”

Cr Trevor Dance agreed the scheme is a rort and said it needs to be stopped.

“Let’s hope … the message gets out there that this needs to be changed and it needs to be changed quickly,” he said.

“I hope the government keeps listening to these messages that have been sent from Hume council.”

Zoe Moffatt

Zoe Moffatt

Kismet Park Primary School students are getting ready for their upcoming production. (Damjan Janevski) 352889_01

Councillors vote to fine hoons

By Zoe Moffatt

Hume council is cracking down on hoons, with the adoption of a local law banning peoplefromattendingahooneventorparking within 200 metres of one.

At its meeting on August 14, Hume council adopted its general purposes local law number one 2023, which will come into operation at 12.01am, September 4.

Under the new local law a person must not participate in, encourage or attend a hoon event.

Drivers must also not stop or park within

200 metres of a vehicle involved in a hoon event, for the purposes of attending.

CouncillorNaimKurtsaidhewaspleasedto see the new local laws which were a significant body of work.

“I’m really pleased to see stronger measures in the local laws about hoon driving,” Cr Kurt said.

“This is a message to hoon drivers now and those that attend those events that they are now on notice.

“Through this local law and through the police force as well, they will now have the powerstogoafterthosewhoenterthoseevents

and endanger people’s lives and property.

“This is the result of a number of years of hard work by officers and also councillors listening to our community.”

This adoption follows Brimbank council’s introduction of anti-hoon laws in January 2018, which was a state first. In the first three years, 327 infringements were issued in Brimbank.

Under the new local laws, retailers who provide shopping trolleys for customers must ensure their name and trading name are clearly marked.

Retailers with more than 25 trolleys must

Tech guru Maguette is here to help

Goonawarra Neighbourhood House is holding device help sessions for residents who are struggling with technical difficulties.

Whether it be a phone, tablet, laptop or desktop computer, neighbourhood house volunteer Maguette Diedhiou is there to help.

Ms Diedhiou said she has been working as a support specialist for seven years, and has a masters in electrical engineering.

“I have worked in a range of roles supporting voice over IP products, point of sale software and payment devices, end users management, laptops and mobiles devices

setup and maintenance,” she said.

“I always wanted to be more involved with the community, but I didn’t have an opportunity to do so until now as I have been a full time working mum.

“I am a customer oriented person and have always enjoyed helping people with technical issues.

“Last session, I assisted a lovely lady with a laptop issue she has had for a year now. Seeing it resolved and the smile on her face was an absolute pleasure for me.”

Ms Diedhiou said she has received positive feedback from her sessions and understands

technical difficulties can be frustrating.

“Troubleshooting is not always easy and it requires a lot of patience and a step to step approach.

“My advice is to not let an issue frustrate you, calmly check all possible causes one at a time.”

An upcoming session will be held at Goonawarra Neighbourhood House on August 24, from noon to 2pm, and Ms Diedhiou said she will look to hold more sessions in the future.

Zoe Moffatt

also ensure each trolley has a coin operated lock or perimeter constraint system attached to it.

Cr Jim Overend said the issue of shopping trolleys dumping is one of the biggest burdens.

“I cannot stand the shopping trolleys that have been dumped everywhere,” he said. “Having them to now be coin operated is going to make a big difference.”

Residents can report local laws that get broken to their councillor or directly through council channels via phone, email and its website.

Voicing a conversation

Goonawarra Neighbourhood House will be holding a kitchen table conversation on the First Nations’ Voice to Parliament on August 23. The discussion will be held at the house from 2pm to 3pm, in the aim to increase people’s understanding of the referendum, and provide an opportunity to share and learn more information.

Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health Community partnership and engagement officer Matt Gleeson will be hosting the event and will be available to listen to any concerns or questions from community members.

“We recognise that there are many different views across communities and the political nature of the Voice,” Mr Gleeson said.

“We also acknowledge that this debate may be challenging for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

“As a local independent not-for-profit organisation we work closely with Aboriginal controlled organisations to provide cultural and health promotion activities and work with the community to ensure the best care for Aboriginal people.

“We know that when people are empowered and included we strengthen our social fabric and achieve better health and wellbeing outcomes for all.”

Registrationfortheeventisrequired and afternoon tea will be provided. A list of support numbers can also be found here: https://sunburycobaw. org.au/crisis-contact-details/ Details: https://www.surveymonkey. com/r/Yes23Sunbury

Zoe Moffatt

Neglected cats rescued following raid on a Hume property

Nearly 70 felines were surrendered from a Hume residential property after concerns were raised by neighbours to RSPCA Victoria, The RSPCA’S inspectorate executed a warrantandnegotiatedthesurrenderof67cats and kittens after information was provided to them that there was approximately 12 cats living in poor living conditions.

However upon executing the warrant it became clear the situation was much worse.

“We were originally alerted to this property after neighbours raised concerns regarding the

smell coming from the house and the number of cats seen through the windows,” RSPCA Victoria north-west region team leader Karen Collier said.

“Upon arrival the ammonia levels from cat urineinthehousewere25ppm[whichrequires PPE clothing and limited exposure] it was so strong it was stinging our eyes and noses.

“The house was covered in cat faeces, with rubbish piled throughout the house, including a number of deceased animals.

“It’s one of the worst examples of unsanitary

conditions we’ve seen with many of the 67 animals suffering health conditions ranging from emaciation, ear infections, ringworm and panleukopenia virus.

“It’s an incredibly sad situation where the person in charge of these cats was unable to provide a clean and sanitary environment including providing adequate food, water, and veterinary care.”

Investigationsintothisincidentareongoing, however investigators suspect that these cats may be linked to an illegal breeding operation.

The animals are now receiving treatment and care while RSPCA Victoria investigates further.

It’s an offence under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1986 (POCTAA) to load, crowd or confine an animal in a manner where the loading, crowding or confinement causes or is likely to cause pain or suffering to the animal.

Anyone found guilty of such an act can face fines of up to $48,077.50 or 12 months imprisonment.

IT volunteer Maguette Diedhiou (Maggie) helping Mary Gibson with her computer (Damjan Janevski). 353175_05

Cheers for Thursday

Goonawarra Aged Care residents were full of smiles on Thursday, after a trip to a local winery and three-course meal.

About 25 residents dressed up and sang their favourite tunes from the 1950s on the bus ride to lunch.

Leisure and lifestyle co-ordinator Alex Patrick said the residents enjoyed themselves and made the most of the day despite the bad weather.

“It was a fun day, we hired a bus and the residents were happy and singing songs, including some by Johnny Cash,” Mr Patrick said.

“They said it was the best day ever for a long long long time, and they just couldn’t stop singing hip hip hooray.

“For the appetiser residents could choose

ARMSTRONG CREEK OVER 55s LIVING Barwon Villa Open to View + Morning Tea

between mushroom soup, calamari, and dips and bread.

“For the mains there was either fish and chips, a big size of calamari, chicken risotto or chicken parmigiana. For dessert there was panna cotta, cheesecake, or ice cream.”

Mr Patrick said residents finished off the meal with their choice of either tea or coffee, and this was followed by a wine tasting.

“They tried red wine, white wine and sparkling wine, and we had a big group discussion where they sang and laughed,” he said.

“We finished the lunch with a small walk despite the bad weather and … we went home at about 2.30pm.”

Briefs

Diggers Rest man charged

Police have charged a Diggers Rest man following an alleged fatal stabbing in Point Cook on Sunday, August 13. The 28-year-old man was interviewed on August 14, and subsequently charged with a number of offences including murder and possess amphetamines. The charges follow the death of a 35-year-old Point Cook man after an altercation at a property on Point Cook Road about 2.45pm on August 13. It’s believed the parties involved were known to each other. Details: 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.

Wildlife rescue boost

Wildlife shelter operators and foster carers are now able to apply for the 2023 Wildlife Rehabilitator Grants, with funding up to $3000 available. Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas announced the grant opening on August 11, which will help volunteer wildlife rehabilitators continue to care for native animals. More than 100 wildlife carers and shelters across Victoria received the grants last year, which helped fund wildlife enclosures, medication, feed, rescue equipment and veterinary fees. Applications close on September 15, at 3.30pm. Details: wildlife.vic.gov.au/grants/wildliferehabilitator-grants.

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We are delighted to invite you to our upcoming 0pen Day to view the Barwon at Armstrong Green Village, the ultimate in over 55’s living. Harmonious work and open-living zones give this house a modern edge. Two spacious bedrooms offer generous accommodation including a walk-in robe and a beautifully appointed ensuite to the master suite.

After we enjoy morning tea morning tea, we will show you around the village so you can discover all there is on offer and meet some of our welcoming community.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Zoe Moffatt

Goonawarra Aged Care residents enjoying their lunch. (Supplied)

Driving road information

More Sunbury kids have learnt about the importance of community road networks through Major Road Projects Victoria education sessions.

The Sunbury Road Upgrade recently helped local preschoolers slip into high-vis vests, and put on their small hard hats, as part of organised play and indoor learning session about roads in the community.

Sunbury MP Josh Bull joined local preschoolers, educators and Sunbury Road Upgrade team at Sunningdale Avenue Children’s Centre in Goonawarra, helping add a touch of fun and education about the vital works.

Major Road Projects Victoria senior project manager Alec Say said the team is thrilled to provide the program which explains how the works keep residents connected.

“We are delivering these high-quality early years engagement sessions so that all kids … can learn about how the works happening in their area make a difference,” Mr Say said.

“We’rethrilledtoprovideSunburywithhigh quality programs like this for our youngest community members, giving our children a chance to have fun and learn about road construction.”

Sunningdale Avenue Children’s Centre team leader Cristina Diamante agreed and said the sessions also relate to the school curriculum.

“Road upgrades are happening across our community and it’s important for kids to learn how they are making a difference and why they are important,” Ms Diamante said.

“The kinder session … was aligned and related to the school curriculum of getting the kids to understand how these roads connect them to their family, community and essential services.”

The preschoolers enjoyed more than an hour of construction-themed activities where they

dressed up in PPE to conduct a construction investigation seek-and-find game.

This was followed by a collaborative activity where they built connections out of the blue foam building blocks to generate discussion about how roads connect the community.

At the end of the visit, the project team gave

New events strategy

Hume council adopted its first event and festival strategy in more than 10 years at its meeting on August 14.

At the meeting council voted to adopt the Vibrant and Inclusive Events and Festivals Strategy 2023-26, which it said is part of its commitment to strengthen community connections.

Withmorethan100eventstakingplace across Hume each year, councillor Chris Hollowsaidthestrategyreflectscouncil’s aspiration for a thriving community and strong sense of belonging.

“[The strategy] provides guiding principles and strategic directions to support council in its role as an event producer, supporter, partner and enabler,” he said.

“Vibrant and inclusive [strategy] is council’s first event strategy in more than 10 years … [and] council recognises the important role these events play in bringing our community together.”

Council said the engagement opportunity for the strategy was promoted extensively, however limited feedback was received.

“Whilst limited feedback was received, comments were overall supportive of the strategy as written [and] a few minor changes have been included in this final document,” Cr Hollow said.

each child an activity take-home pack as a special memento of the day.

Once the upgrade is complete, drivers will be able to enjoy safer and easier trips to Sunningdale Children’s Centre, with direct access to an additional lane in each direction on Sunbury Road.

Council said it will evaluate and monitor the strategy through quarterly reporting within the council plan and an annual report action plan.

It has established a strategic indicator with the aim to reach an overall satisfaction score of 85 per cent by 2025.

Battling for the win

Hard rock and pop punk band, Sack of Flour, has taken out the grand prize for the 2023 Battle of the Bands.

About 170 Macedon Ranges residents gathered at the Kyneton Town Hall in late July to see five local young acts perform live on stage and compete to win some great prizes. A total of 15 acts, spanning from acoustic to heavy metal, applied to take part in the competition, with Sack of Flour taking out the top prize of a $500 recording studio voucher.

Guitarist and singer Ridley McNamara-Moyle joined fellow bandmates Max Jeffcoat-Holm and Andre Dambrosi at the competition, and said they were pretty surprised to take out the win.

“It was our first proper gig altogether … we were really excited when they read out our name [as the winners],” Ridley said.

“Backstage we were a bit nervous and jittery,

but we were more excited than nervous … as we practised hard.

“[Max and I] played last year as a two piece in the competition and we wanted to play again this year as a redemption… and to showcase the newly formed band.”

Macedon Ranges council director community Maria Weiss said the event gives a platform to young musicians across the shire.

“Battle of the Bands is one of the signature events we’re proud to host,” Ms Weiss said.

“From all accounts, the audience were thoroughly entertained by the energy and expertise shown by all of the acts.

“Congratulations to all of the participants, the eventual winners and the event organisers for all contributing to the great success of the event for another year.”

Elysium, won the People’s Choice award, and took home a $500 merchandise pack.

Local band Sack of Flour at the 2023 Battle of the Bands. (Supplied)

Major Road Projects Victoria at Sunningdale Avenue Children’s Centre in Goonawarra. (Supplied)

Growing habitat to offset carbon

A new central Victorian carbon offset project has been launched to help councils reach net-zero emission goals, while providing landholders the benefits from growing trees and shrubs on their properties.

The Community Carbon Project is a partnership between the North Central Catchment Management Authority (CMA), Macedon Ranges, the City of Greater Bendigo, Hepburn,andMountAlexandershirecouncils.

North Central CMA business development manager Matt Dawson said restoring critical habitats and connecting fragmented landscapes in the region is a key focus of all project partners.

“However, government organisations and private landowners are always faced with the significant challenge of the high cost of large-scale revegetation works,” Mr Dawson said.

“Many landholders find it difficult to justify theexpensesandtimecommitmentsinvolved.”

Community Carbon is aiming to address this by leveraging the carbon offset needs of local councils to provide financial support to deliver revegetation efforts.

The carbon sequestered by these trees will then offset residual emissions of the participating councils.

“Weareexcitedtobetriallingthisinnovative

Walking to save lives

Macedon Ranges Suicide Prevention Action Group (MRSPAG) invites everyone to walk for world suicide prevention day on September 10. The group is hosting the community walk for the 10th year to highlight 2023’s theme that by ‘creating hope through action –we all have a role to play’.

MRSPAG chairperson Peter Gray said the community needs to come together to support those in need.

“By coming together, we de-stigmatise suicide and show no one need be alone in their thoughts,” Mr Gray said.

“We show support for each other as a community [and] demonstrate our willingness to empathetically listen to each other as we navigate the peaks and valleys of life.

“We honour those whom we have lost, remembering that a person’s life is not defined by how they passed.”

The free event is pet friendly and provides an opportunity to remember those lost to suicide with registered names read out as part of the morning’s formalities.

MRSPAG said it encourages participants to register prior to the walk, with music, coffee, andfoodtobeprovidedafterthewalk. Thewalk will be approximately four kilometres long and will commence at Woodend Children’s Park.

It will continue into Woodend township and along Five Mile Creek before returning to the park where coffee and food will be available.

Details: suicidepreventionwalk@mrspag. com.au

Lifeline 13 11 14

Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800

Macedon Ranges Suicide Prevention Action Group walk for World Suicide Prevention Day. (Supplied)

approach. There are wins for the landholder, thecommunityandlocalwildlife,”MrDawson said. “The benefits of undertaking revegetation work on private properties are clear.

“It attracts diverse wildlife, improves the aesthetic appeal of properties, reduces soil erosion, improves soil health, and enhances water quality.

“This is a great opportunity for landholders to not only leave their property in a better condition for future generations but help in the fight against climate change.

“We are keen to hear from local landholders interested in participating by planting trees and shrubs on their properties.”

While prioritising sites where a cumulative area of 10 hectares or more can be planted, the project will also consider smaller, high-value areas for revegetation.

“The commitment of all partners to reduce emissions will continue, but inevitable residual emissions by 2030 will require offsets,” Mr Dawson said.

“This project helps ensures the integrity of the offsets and keeps the financial, ecological, and lifestyle benefits in the region, which is great news for everyone.”

Expressions of interest will close September 30, 2023. Details: www.nccma.vic.gov.au/ climatechange/community-carbon

Halls Taekwondo Tullamarine fighter Lacie Gleeson. (Supplied)

Gold trifecta for Lacie

A local Taekwondo fighter is heading to World ChampionshipsinBosnia,followingasweeping three days of competitions in Brisbane which ended in a trifecta of gold.

Halls Taekwondo Tullamarine fighter Lacie Gleeson,14, is gearing up to put on the green and gold for her second World Championships which are being held in Bosnia on August 24. Lacie competed in three competitions in three days at the start of July, and said she is excited to make the team and represent Australia again.

“The first day was the Cadet World Championship Selection event, the second day was World Taekwondo Oceania‘s Presidents Cup, and the last day was the Australian Open,” she said.

“Iendedthethreedayswithatrifectaofgold. In particular, by winning my division at the World Championship selection event [which] earnt my spot as a cadet representative.

“I was super happy with my performances, I felt that across the three days I was consistent and came away with no regrets.

“Mindset is very important and I wasn’t going all that way just to participate. My goal was to win, I wasn’t going to give that away easily.”

This success follows Lacie’s World Championship debut last year in Bulgaria where she won her first international fight.

Lacie said this experience, along with competing in the Netherlands, taught her a lot and she cannot wait to do it again.

“The training leading up to an international competition isn’t easy, it’ s… long and tough hours but I always enjoy it.”

Lacie said she will also compete at the Bosnia and Herzegovina Open Championship event in Sarajevo just days after the World Championships.

Zoe Moffatt

Athletes enjoy Perth fast break

By Zoe Moffatt

Macedon Ranges sporting champs have recently returned home from a successful National Basketball Championships with the under-16 Victoria Country team in Perth.

Locals Samuel Haslett, Alex Grey and Sonny Maxwell attended the competition in July with the help of a $750 travel grant from McEwen MP Rob Mitchell.

Samuel said the grant helped cover the travel costs of the competition where the team finished fifth overall out of 13 state sides.

“The highlight for me was taking the court with the best up and coming basketballers in thecountrybothasteammatesandopponents,” he said.

“It really helped to develop my game physically and mentally. I’ve made some great mates throughout the campaign, and to hang out with them for 10 days in Perth was great fun.”

WoodendresidentAlexGreyagreedandsaid the atmosphere and competitiveness made it a great tournament.

“A highlight for me was playing in the opening match straight after the opening ceremony against the home side WA Metro,” Alex said. “The stadium was packed and the atmosphere was fantastic.

“I learnt that it’s a very competitive tournament and you need to be prepared both on and off the court.”

Gisborne resident Sonny Maxwell said the trip was a good experience, and follows being named as an emergency for the side last year.

“It was my first time competing interstate and I learnt a lot from it, which I can take into the future,” Sonny said.

“My team came fifth and it was a good experience … I had never been to Western Australia before so it was new for me but it is a cool place.”

Samuel and Alex recently met with Mr Mitchell who congratulated them on their

continued efforts.

Mr Mitchell said it is important to recognise and assist local sporting champions for their ongoing commitment and dedication.

“It was a pleasure to host a few of McEwen’s local sporting champions and congratulate

Fun, fitness and friendship

Sunbury Badminton Club members have enjoyed a week packed full of social games and round robin competitions.

The club plays at Clarks Oval Stadium on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday night, as well as Wednesday morning.

ClubpresidentPaulElamhasbeenamember for 12 years, and encouraged anyone interested to come down for a game.

“Badminton is a game you can play for life… I have been playing badminton in the Sunbury and Macedon area for 40 years,” Mr Elam said.

“With badminton you can have a good game playing with all age groups. At 75 years old I still play and coach.

“[Anyone can] join Sunbury Badminton Club for fun, fitness and friendship.”

Social games are played on Tuesday and Wednesdaynightsfrom7.30pmto9.30pm,and Wednesday morning from 10am to 12pm.

The round robin competition is played on Monday night from 7.30pm to 9.30pm

Details: sunburybc@gmail.com

them on their dedication,” he said. “These young people deserve all the recognition they can get and from all the applicants really stood out for their commitment, especially in sports that don’t always get a lot of recognition.”

Zoe Moffatt

Badminton player Marisa Gaudie aiming for a shot. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 351517

Above: Sunbury Badminton Club member Hayden Braun. Below left: Ainsley Clear playing a social game on Wednesday morning. Below right: Club member Luis Clear with his eyes on the prize.

Sabina Choi enjoying a social game of badminton.

Above: Sonny Maxwell. (Damjan Janevski) 353032_07 Right: McEwen MP Rob Mitchell with Samuel Haslett (top) and Alex Grey. (Picutres: Supplied)

Pipeworks set for an exciting future

Pipeworks Market has settled into its new home in Thomastown, and market manager Peter Dimarelos said there is more to come for the iconic northern suburbs landmark.

First established in 1987, the Pipeworks Market was originally based in Campbellfield and quickly became the heart of the northern suburbs community.

The market closed in 2013 but is back and bigger than ever at its new location at 5 Dunstans Court, Thomastown.

The red carpet was rolled out on June 17 for the reopening of the market, a day that was jam packed with retailers and entertainment for everyone to enjoy.

Mr Dimarelos said the day brought the community together once again.

“The reopening was amazing, we managed to have a big crowd come through and enjoy all the things our market has to offer, from entertainment, activities and fresh produce,” he said.

“Everyone was just happy to be there, it was great.”

The market is open on Saturdays and Sundays from 8am to 4pm and stretches across an expansive 9,000-square-metre space, with hundreds of diverse stalls and thousands of parking spaces.

MrDimarelossaidthemarketiscontinuing to grow week on week as it strives to deliver for the community.

“We really want people to come out and have a look at our new site. It is still a work in progress but we are here for the long run. Our attitude is to grow and make the market bigger and better every chance we get,” he said.

“The goal is to give value to people coming and to give families something to do on their weekends.

“There is definitely a nostalgia for the

old market and the community has come back together because of it. There are lots of familiar faces but also lots of new faces.

Pipeworks Market manager Peter Dimarelos. (Damjan Janevski) 353769_01

The WayOut program is offering a series of digital storytelling workshops. (Supplied)

Who is your LGBTIQA+ animation character?

Are you a young person who identifies as LGBTIQA+? Do you live, work, study or hang out in Sunbury?

Then join Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health’s WayOut program for a series of digital storytelling workshops theyarehostinginSunburyfromAugustto October. You will learn about storytelling, digital illustration and audio production to create some queer animations! The project will also provide an opportunity to share your experiences of being a queer young person in a creative and anonymous way. To participate, you must:

• Identify as LGBTIQA+

• 12-21 years old

• Live/work/study/hang out in Sunbury

• Be able to attend 3 workshops in Sunbury between August and October

African names for cubs

“We want to capture the voices of LGBTIQA+ young people and their experiences of being queer, both the challenges and the great things,” says WayOut project worker, Rhani.

“This will be done in a safe, supported and deidentified way. Plus we will learn how to make those stories come to life in animation form!”

These free workshops are being run by WayOut and creative multimedia consultancy, Storyland with support from Hume Youth Services.

Please register your interest at www. surveymonkey.com/r/WayOutStoryland For more information contact WayOut on 5421 1666/healthpromotion@scchc. org.au

Werribee Open Range Zoo’s precious trio of 10-week-old lion cubs now have names.

The monikers were chosen via an online naming competition where more than 360,000 Zoos Victoria members and donors had the opportunity to cast their vote.

The highest polling names are Mwezi [pronounced: Mw-e-zee], Kianga [pronounced: Kee-ang-uh] and Jango [pronounced: Jan-go].

Werribee Open Range Zoo African River Trail keeper Ben Gulli said the names are from languages used in the African regions wherewildlionsarefoundandthenamesalign with the Werribee Zoo lion cubs’ individual personalities.

“The name Mwezi – meaning moon in Swahili – has been given to one of the male cubs because the litter was born during the evening of a full moon,” Mr Gulli said.

“The name Kianga – meaning sunshine in Swahili – has been given to the female cub

because she’s very bright and picks things up really quickly.

“The name Jango – meaning brave in Xhosa – has been given to the second male cub because he’s extremely confident in exploring on his own.”

Mr Gulli said the cubs are continuing to grow in both size and confidence.

“The cubs are continuing to take opportunitiestoexplorebeyondthecomfortsof their den, venturing into their pride’s habitat,” MrGullisaid.“Thisisnowextendinguptoone hour a day. Like many other newborns, they tire very quickly but the amount of time they explore and play will increase as they build their strength and resilience in the coming weeks and months.”

“This phased approach is part of a specially designed plan that aims to replicate how lion cubs integrate with their environment and pride members in the wild.”

YOURNEWCAREER ...startshere

PRINT AND PRINT AND PRINT AND ONLINE SALES ONLINE SALES ONLINE SALES

EXECUTIVE EXECUTIVE EXECUTIVE

REQUIRED REQUIRED REQUIRED

Two cubs explore their enclosure. (Supplied)

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BP Service Station Bulla

Jack McKenzie Community Centre Bulla

Coach and Horses Inn Clarkefield

Foodworks Diggers Rest

Diggers Rest Post Office Diggers Rest

Houdinis Cafe e Cucina Diggers Rest

Gisborne Village Fresh Gibsorne

Morgan's SUPA IGA Gibsorne

Macedon Ranges Shire Council Gibsorne

Gisborne Library Gisborne

Foodworks Gisborne

Macedon Ranges Health Service Gisborne

Puma Service Station Gisborne

Caltex Service Station Gisborne

Kuppers Fuel Stop Kyneton

The Lunchbox Kyneton

Kyneton Newsagency Kyneton

Kyneton Shire Offices Kyneton

Lancefield Newsagency Lancefield

United Service Station Macedon

Black Forest Motel Macedon

Roweys Macedon Family Hotel Macedon

IGA Supermarket Macedon

Macedon Newsagency Macedon

Malmsbury General Store Malmsbury

Monegeeta Newsagency Monegeeta

Mt Macedon Post Office Mount Macedon

Baringo Food and Wine Company New Gisborne

Riddells Creek Nursery Riddells Creek

Riddells Creek Post Office Riddells Creek

Foodies Riddells Creek

Riddells Creek Supermarket Riddells Creek

IGA Supermarket Romsey

Macedon Ranges Shire Offices Romsey

Sunbury Newsagency Sunbury

Ferguson Plarre Sunbury

The Jolly Miller Cafe Sunbury

The Local Sunbury Bottleshop Sunbury

Goonawarra General Store Sunbury

Sunbury Neighbourhood House Sunbury

Muffin Break Sunbury

Sunbury Square Shopping Centre Sunbury

Terry White Chemist Sunbury

Gap Road Medical Centre Sunbury

United Fuel Sunbury Sunbury

7-Eleven Sunbury Sunbury

Asia Finest Sunbury

Puma Service Station Sunbury

Woolworths Supermarket Sunbury

Big W Sunbury

BP Service Station Sunbury

Sunbury Day Hospital Sunbury

Hume Council Offices Sunbury

Sunbury & Cobaw Community Health Centre Sunbury

McKwen Drive Milk Bar Sunbury

Foodworks Bottlemart on Melba Sunbury

Foodworks on Melba Sunbury

Melba Cafe Sunbury

Mitchells Lane Milk Bar Sunbury

Just Planet Sunbury

An Apple a Day Natural Health Store Sunbury

Luckys Bakehouse Sunbury

The Spotted Owl Sunbury

Cafe Circe Sunbury

IGA Supermarket Sunbury

Strathearn Glen Corner Store Sunbury

Sacco & Saba Cafe Sunbury

Sunbury & Cobaw Community Health Centre Sunbury

Rosenthal Shopping Centre Sunbury

Tylden Store Tylden

Coles Supermarket Woodend

II cafe Woodend

Andrews Cafe Woodend

Fox in the Chamber Woodend

Maison Maloa Licensed Cafe & Gifts Woodend

Woodend Newsagency Woodend

Milko Cafe Woodend

Bourkies Bake House Woodend

BP Service Station Woodend

Real Estate Agents Everywhere

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

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

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 they’d 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

Sunbury Macedon Ranges Lodge

Meets monthly on the second Wednesday of the month at 7pm, 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

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

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.

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

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

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

Rotary club

The Sunbury Rotary Club meets every Tuesday at the Ball Court Hotel, 60 Macedon Street, Sunbury from 7pm.

■ sunburyrotary@gmail.com

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

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

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

Ladies probus

The Woodlands Ladies Probus Club of Sunbury meets on the fourth Monday of each month at the Sunbury Bowling Club at 9.45am.

■ Leonie, 0401 764 182

Probus Club Of Sunbury

Join the Probus Club of Sunbury on the first Wednesday of the month at the Sunbury Bowling 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

Hume Mens Shed

The Hume Mens Shed (Sunbury) is a non for profit organisation, meeting every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings at 158 Evans Street Sunbury. The group caters for men be it carpentry, welding, metal work, gardening or just to chat.

■ sunburymensshed.com or 0438 677 425

Drop-in Guitar

Bring your guitar and your favourite sheet music and join an informal guitar session for adults. Share songs and learn new ones, all skill sets welcome. Tuesdays, 9am-noon, at Sunbury Neighbourhood House, 531 Elizabeth Drive Sunbury.

■ www.sunburyhouse.com.au

Sunbury Badminton Club

The Sunbury Badminton Club plays social games on Tuesdays and Wednesdays nights from 7.30pm to 9.30 pm, and on Wednesdays 10am to 12pm. Monday night is a Round Robin competition from 7.30pm to 9.30pm. All welcome to attend at Clarks Oval Stadium 49 Riddle Road. ■ sunburybc@gmail.com

This weeks photographer’s choice picture is of Hume Anglican Grammar students Treesha, Aria, Freddie, Logan, Stephanie, Harriet and Gurleen preparing for their production of the Addams Family. (Damjan Janevski). 353474_01

SUDOKU

To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.

QUICK CROSSWORD

5

9

1

DECODER WORDFIT

Today’s Aim: 3 LETTERS ACT ADO ASH ASK ATE BAT CAW CHI COL COO EKE ERA ICY LET NEW OVA PRO RAN ROE SHE SKI TAB TIE

I M G

F B E

I E

S F C N U F

snug, SUFFICING, suing, sung, using

cuffs, fisc, fusing, gins, guns, nisi, scuff, scuffing, sign, sing, sniff, snuff,

No. 147

S E S R E G O S I M A G E F A B L E T I L E D S L E D S

4 LETTERS

1 In which US city was Motown Records founded in 1960?

2 Director Duncan Jones is the son of which musician?

3 Which actress stars as Alice Chambers in the 2022 film Don'tWorryDarling?

4 On which bay is Cape Town situated?

5 What element has the symbol Au and the atomic number 79?

6 In which film did George Clooney (pictured) play the character Ulysses Everett McGill?

7 What song contains the line 'How can you have any pudding if you don’t eat your meat?'?

8 Who wrote the poem Donotgogentleinto thatgoodnight?

9 Iona is a small island off the western coast of which country?

10 Who played the lead role opposite Cary Grant in the 1963 film Charade?

No. 147

No. 147

No. 147

Made

(Pictures: Supplied)

Honda ZR-V VTi L 1.5L Turbo 4-cylinder petrol, CVT automatic, FWD

Note: These prices are drive-away.

Honda sets out its SUV stall

By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring

Honda has shown its hand for the future with a deft shuffle of its SUVs, including the addition of a new model, the ZR-V, slotting in between the present HR-V and CR-V.

While the newcomer is different, it does go somewhat to cramping the style of its older siblings. However, Honda assures us that the coming of the all-new CR-V in 2024, as a bigger, more spacious model than at present, will resolve the situation.

“The Honda ZR-V is Honda Australia’s first, brand-new core model to be introduced in Australia in 20 years and uses an enhanced version of Honda’s global architecture,” said Honda Australia director Carolyn McMahon.

The Civic-based ZR-V comes in three petrol-only grades and a range-topping petrol / electric hybrid. Prices start at $40,200 for the VTi X with the hybrid e:HEV LX costing $54,900.OntestwastheZR-VVTiLat$43,200. All prices are drive-away.

Standard equipment on the base model includes premium cloth upholstery, a 9-inch infotainment touch-screen, eight-speaker sound system, wireless Apple CarPlay, wired Android Auto, dual-zone climate control, eight-speaker sound system, 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, 11 airbags, 17-inch wheels, rain-sensing wipers and parking sensors front and back.

In contrast, the VTi L takes on leatherette upholstery, heated front seats, 18-inch alloys, heated door mirrors, hands-free power tailgate, rear privacy glass, combination LED tail-lights and metal paddle shifts.

All ZR-Vs come under Honda’s five-year

unlimited kilometre warranty, with 24/7 roadside assist. Service intervals are 12 months or 10,000 kilometres and capped at $199 per visit.

Styling

At a tad over four-and-a-half metres long, the ZR-V is knocking on the mid-size SUV door. With a forceful front, the radiator grille shows off why black is the new chrome, cropping up in all classes of automobile, from bargain basement compacts to high-end aristocrats and anything in between – a ZR-V, for example.

By contrast, the headlamps flanking the front each share a home with daytime running lights and dynamic direction indicators under a single sleek clear plastic ‘roof’.

In profile the SUV is neither too tall nor too small – a genuine design Goldilocks – and leads to a rear as neat and tidy as a tucked-in shirt. Eighteen-inch alloy wheels are a step up from the entry-level 17s.

Interior

Seatingisfirmandcouldgiverisetocomplaints on long journeys. Head and legroom are excellent. However, in the back the high-set floor leaves little room for toes under the front seats.

Out back there’s also a fold-down armrest with cup holders, double USB-C charge points and bottle nest. ISOFIX points are fixed for the outboard edges of the rear bench.

Access to the 380 litres of boot space comes via a power tailgate operated from an external switch, or with a gentle ‘kick’, Sam Kerr-style, to the rear bumper. Fold the 60 / 40 seat backs and 1312 litres becomes available.

The under-floor comes in two parts and can be used to separate cargo. There’s room only for a space saver spare wheel.

Honda has hooked in to the floating centre console with decent-size cubby below.

Deep cup holders are situated ahead of the gearshift switch. Door slots will take 700 ml bottles.

Infotainment

A 9.0-inch touchscreen is small by present-day standards but is home to a simple menu layout for wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto, eight speaker sound system.

The 10.2-inch digital information cluster screen displays a good amount of driver information. Up front are USB-A and USB-C, in the rear two USB-C points.

Engines / transmissions

The Honda ZR-V VTi L relies on a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine mated with a CVT automatic transmission driving the front wheels.

Maximumpowerof131kWcomesupat6000 rpm; top torque of 240 Nm between 1700 and 4500 rpm, making for flexible performance from go to whoa.

Safety

The Honda ZR-V leads the class in passive safety with 11 airbags, including a front-centre and driver’s knee airbag.

Active safety includes autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow, driver attention monitoring, lane-keep assist, traffic jam assist, traffic sign

recognition, front and rear parking sensors, plus tyre pressure monitoring.

Driving

With 240 Nm of torque on tap from a low 1700 revs well managed by the CVT tuning, the ZR-V pulls away with little fuss. Acceleration into a motorway stream of traffic is likewise. Engine, wind and road noise are all-but absent, except in the last case on course surfaces. Ride and handling are competent thanks to a well-tuned suspension. Town work on test was as expected for a light vehicle, while body roll on fast bends was minimised and road blemishes ironed out with ease.

As a performer, of the three drive modes, Normal is, well normal, for day-to-day city traffic, while Eco saves fuel but obviously dumbs down the driving experience. Sport makes the best of the turbo for a taut response to right-foot input. Honda puts a combined urban / highway fuel consumption of 7.2 litres per 100 kilometres on the ZV-R petrol vehicle. On test the VTi L came up with 9 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and as low as 5 litres per 100 kilometres on the open road.

Driver’s view all round is mostly good but is let down by limited rear-window glass. There’s a neat lock-as-you-walk-away form the vehicle when you have your hands full.

Summary As a long-time possessor of a self-propelled Honda lawnmower and large house block I have been pleasantly surprised with the machine’sperformanceandreliability.Itmakes me wonder if the same could be applied to the company’s new SUV down the track.

The new ZR-V is an early arrival before its time.

Cental Vic competitions to remain unchanged

There will be no changes to AFL Central Vic football and netball competitions in 2024, with more time needed to implement any possible changes.

The AFL Central Vic commission revealed two weeks ago it was interested in obtaining club input on the concept of a new senior football and netball competition, to be considered in 2024.

The new competition was to support clubs who feel that the league they are currently competing in is not aligned to their short and long term goals.

The Bendigo Football Netball League, which includes both Kyneton and Gisborne clubs, voiced disappointment at the lack of communication and said it didn’t understand the proposal of a second division of its competition.

The other alternative was a new competition for both football and netball.

Following a meeting by the AFL Central Vic commission members and clubs last week, the commission issued a new statement saying therewouldbenochangesforthe2024season.

“The meeting provided further evidence to the commission that there is desire and support for change to the current structure of competitions,” the statement said.

“However, there was unanimous agreement that any change needs to be fully planned and well executed. Any change is significant with senior football, senior and junior netball, and junior football all important considerations.

“Therefore,itisconfirmedthattherewillnot be any changes to the senior football-netball competitions for the 2024 season.”

The statement comes after Kyneton announced it was holding an information sessionFridayabouttherecentannouncement of changes.

It follows an earlier statement that it was a surprising announcement from AFL Central Vic.

“We will assess all the information from the league and develop a comprehensive plan that outlines the potential next steps for the future to ensure the sustainability and longevity of our great club,” it said.

“We are passionate about our community

club and may have some big decisions to make with the help of our supporters.”

TheTigershavebeencontactedforcomment following the meeting.

GisbornepostedastatementonitsFacebook last week, following the initial AFL Central Vic announcement.

“Contrary to recent media reports and unfounded speculation, the GFNC would like to inform players, members and stakeholders that the club will be remaining a proud member of the Bendigo Football Netball League,” it said.

Meanwhile, Kyneton kept its small finals hopes alive with a win against Kangaroo Flat, 12.12 (84)-9.17 (71).

The Tigers now sit percentage outside the top five. With their percentage the Tigers need to beat Strathfieldsaye in the final round and South Bendigo lose to Castlemaine.

Meanwhile, Gisborne had a 22.16 (148)-11.9 (75) win against South Bendigo on Saturday.

Tara Murray

Sunbury win

Despite a final round loss, the Sunbury Kangaroos will play Essendon District Football League division 2 finals this season.

The Kangaroos entered the round in fourth spot ahead of a clash with minor premiers Oak Park.

The Kangaroos either needed to win the match, or if they lost they needed Burnside Heights to beat Coburg Districts, which was in fifth spot.

Sunbury threw everything at Oak Park in the battle of the Kangaroos, but fell agonisingly short, losing 15.7 (97)-15. (94).

OakParkledformuchofthefirsthalf, before Sunbury kicked seven goals in the third quarter to lead by nine points at the final break.

The lead changed several times in the final quarter with Oak Park able to do enough to get over the line.

Matthew Leonard kicked six goals for Sunbury, while skipper Mitch Streiff was named Sunbury’s best.

Nervous Sunbury fans were watching the other game with interest, with Burnside Heights sneaking home by one point to end Coburg Districts finals hopes and sealing Sunbury’s.

Sunbury now faces the Northern Saints in a knockout semi final in the first week of the finals.

Teen’s Asia Cup dream

The hard work and hours of travel have paid off for rising Woodend basketball star Cooper Duff-Tytler.

Having not been in the state program at the start of last year, Duff-Tytler was last week named in the Australian under-16 team to play in the FIBA Asia Cup.

The achievement is not one lost on the teenager.

“It means a lot,” he said. “I always dreamt of playing for Australia and it’s a reward for all the effort.

“I was shocked and it’s really exciting.”

Duff-Tytler was among 30 players that were invited up to the Australian Institute of Sport in Canberra in the lead up to the squad being picked.

The players were picked on their performances at state level, with the final Australian team selected from there.

“Whoever played well they were selected,” he said. “We trained up there for a couple of days.”

The Asia Championships will see the Crocs

face the likes of Japan, China and New Zealand at the tournament next month.

Duff-Tytler said he was looking forward to the challenge.

“It will be really quick and physical,” he said.

“I’ve really improved leaps and bounds the last couple of years.

“I’ve put a lot more time into it with extra training.”

Having started his career at the Macedon Ranges Basketball Association, Duff-Tytler was soon playing with the Sunbury Jets.

This year he joined Keilor Thunder and is part of its Victorian Junior Basketball League Victorian championship team which is on track to making finals.

Duff-Tytler said he was enjoying his time at theThunderandsaidhehadareallygoodcoach. He said he was unsure how much of finals he would play with the national team duties.

Duff-Tytler’sKeilorteammateSaPilimaihas also been named in the Australian under-16 team.

There’s been plenty of travel for Duff-Tytler, who goes to school in PEGS in Essendon, for his sporting loves.

While Duff-Tytler is excelling on the basketball court, he isn’t 100 per cent sure that is where his sporting future lies.

As well as being a talented basketballer, he’s a budding football star as well. He was part of the Vic Country under-16 team at the national championships earlier this year.

“I’mstillenjoyingbothfootyandbasketball,” Duff-Tytler said. “I’ll see where they take me.

“The footy championships we went to the Gold Coast for the champs and won the championship which was good.

“I played all right in the first game. It was a good experience.”

Duff-TytlerispartoftheCalderCannonsand has been training with their under-18 squad.

For now though the focus is on basketball.

“I’ll put footy aside at the moment to train for Doha,” he said. “I’ll put in as much time as possible to make sure that I’m ready.”

East Sunbury ended its season with a big loss to Taylors Lakes, 26.16 (172)-4.5 (29).

The Lions controlled the game throughout and were able to extend the lead in every quarter.

Mitch Church and Mitchell Shields kicked two goals each for the Thunder. In good news for the club, the Thunder announcedduringtheweekthatChurch had re-signed for next season.

Nathan Sciberras was the Thunder’s best.

In division 1, Rupertswood warmed up for finals with a thrilling win against Deer Park.

Already knowing they would face each other in a qualifying final in the first week of finals, only bragging rights were on the line.

The Sharks were able to come away a second time this season with a win against the Lions winning 11.7 (73)-9.17 (71).

Clayton Bonello kicked five goals in the win with Logan Johnson named their best.

Cooper Duff-Tytler. (Basketball Victoria)

Dom Bennington (Jacob Pattison) 334031_13

Tigers excited for future despite finals departure

There’salottobeexcitedaboutfortheSunbury Tigers in the NRL Victoria Storm premiership competition despite a preliminary final loss.

The Tigers season concluded on Saturday in a hard fought loss to the Waverley Panthers, after finishing third in the regular season.

Tigers’ centre Anisi Salani scored their first two tries of the game to level the scores at half time. Although the Panthers got out to a three try lead at the 70 minute mark. The Tigers then fought back with two late tries to Harry SioandNoahLewis,tobringthemclose,butit wasn’t to be with the Panthers winning 30-22.

It was the Tigers first season back in top grade, after winning the division 2 title last season. While the club had a strong history, a shortage of numbers meant there was a few years the club didn’t have a senior side.

Coach Grant Paaka was full of praise for his side.

“It’s not the result we wanted to get off to the big dance, but we’re really satisfied with the season we’ve had and we’re looking forward to the future,” he said.

With the average age of the Tigers team

sitting at about 19, Paaka said a preliminary final is just the tip of the iceberg with his squad.

“Moving forward and keeping the group together, we’ll see a fair bit of dominance in the years to come,” he said.

“This definitely isn’t our last shot, we can build forward for the future.

“[A young age group] that was the idea around the build, progressively identifying age groups around four years ago, putting a bit of a focus around that age group and the

Gilcrist’s 400 milestone

By Harper Sercombe

Lauren Gilcrist enriched her legacy at the Sunbury Lions’ when she played her 400th Ballarat Netball League game at the weekend.

Gilcrist is now in her 26th season at the club and was one of the first members of the Lions’ netball program.

She first started with the Lions as a 16-year-old in the reserves team when the club moved to the BNL. At that time the Lions only had two netball teams, now each club has six.

“You create the friendships and from there you stay with it because it’s enjoyable,” Gilcrist said.

“It’s just that social aspect as well as the competition.

“My husband was a footballer at Sunbury, so we met through the football club and both of our parents have been involved in the club.”

Her aunty was treasurer at the time and her mum was later netball administrator for at least 10 years. Gilcrist’s sister also played

netball with the Lions for about 10 years.

Speaking before the milestone, Gilcrist said she was happy the game was being played at home so she could celebrate with friends and family.

“I want to say thanks to them for their support for it all. I couldn’t do it without them,” she said.

She now has two daughters, Taylah and Madi, with the goal being to step onto a court alongside both of them at the Lions.

“My oldest is playing now, she’s 16 … my youngest is 12 … we hope to get there one day, but she’s still a couple of years off,” she said.

“If the body holds out and the knee’s hold up we’ll see how we go, it’ll be pretty special.

“My little one would be upset if I didn’t make it for her.”

Gilcrist has had a career that many would envy, including six premierships and three most valuable player awards, all across A and B grade. Although there is one memory that holds a special place in her heart.

“After playing for so many years without one the 2013 premiership was pretty

special,” she said.

“It was when Kim (Bailey) who’s now our coach first came back to the club, and she re-established it after we’d had a couple of years where we’d fallen down the grades a bit.”

The 2013 flag started a run of premierships for the club.

“That was a pretty good little era there, playing deep into September for quite some time,” she said.

After having to rebuild the netball program after COVID, Gilcrist said 2023 has a similar feel to the drought breaking season a decade ago. With her C-grade side currently sitting second on the table, she is hoping she can recreate it this September.

“It would be pretty cool, that’s the aim,” she said.

“It’s a good team because we’ve got that connection between a couple of older players, playing for social reasons, and there’s still some young players up and coming.

“It’s good to be out there teaching them as you play, which is nice.”

group underneath them.”

Paaka said Sunbury has become a hot-spot for young players wanting to play rugby league, which will further bolster their on field performances for the years to come.

“There’s a lot of interstate players that are moving into the area that have a lot to offer,” he said.

With a full roster of about 30 players, off season recruiting is something on Paaka’s mind. While he would like to add some more players, he knows the squad he already has in place, has a lot of potential.

“I’m fairly satisfied with the roster,” he said.

“We were fortunate enough that it worked in our favour, in terms of player availability, injuries and suspensions.

“In terms of the current roster, if we retain them all we’ll be happy with it.

“The way the group plays footy, it’s become quite an attractive side, where we are getting a lot of outside expressions of interest.

“So we’ll see what 2024 offers when pre-season rolls around.”

Harper

Sports shorts

Cricket

Gisborne skipper Jarryd Vernon has been named in the Victorian Country Cricket League team of the year of the 2022-23 season. Vernon, who won the Gisborne and District Cricket Association Sullivan Medal for the season, made 751 at an average of 93.88, while also taking 21 wickets. He was also named vice-captain of the VCCL team.

BPL

Sunbury-based Melbourne Extreme has signed Kylie Whitehead for the Bowls Premier League 18 competition in November. An Australian Jackaroo, Whitehead has won the World Champion of Champions singles title in 2019, Multi Nations gold in 2023, Australian Champion of Champions gold in 2018 and Australian Championship fours in 2021. Whitehead said it’s an honour and she can’t wait to play for and represent Melbourne Extreme. She replaces Natasha Van Eldik in the team.

Ballarat FL

The Sunbury Lions finals hopes are now in jeopardy after an upset loss to Bacchus Marsh on Saturday in the Ballarat Football League. The Lions could have sealed their finals spot, but instead lost to the Cobras, 12.9 (81)-11.13 (79). The Lions are now one of three teams fighting for two spots in the final round, with all three teams equal on 32 points. The Lions face second placed Darley in the last round.

Bendigo NL

Gisborne suffered an upset loss to South Bendigo on Saturday in the Bendigo Netball League. Looking to seal second spot, the Bulldogs fell short 32-28 in a low scoring affair. The Bulldogs remain in second place, but are now just percentage ahead of third. Meanwhile, Kyneton had a 64-30 loss to Kangaroo Flat. The Bulldogs face Maryborough in the final round of the regular season, while Kyneton will finish its season against Strathfieldsaye.

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After just one loss, Burras are ready for finals

Diggers Rest is rested and ready for a big Riddell District Football League finals series.

With just one loss for the season, the Burras have known for weeks that they would finish on top of the ladder.

With that in mind coach Jamie Lobb has had his mind firmly on finals the last few weeks.

“It’s been nice to have a different scenario,” he said. “The final round last year we had to win to keep top spot.

“Last year we played a few guys in the final round and it hurt come the finals. We’ve been able to manage them and it’s made it a bit easier and hopefully we peak at the right time.”

The Burras have blooded a number of youngsters in recent weeks, while taking the opportunity to rest some guys.

On Saturday, the Burras faced Melton

Centrals in their final game of the season.

Centrals led at quarter time before the Burras hit the front in the second quarter. They were able to stay there without blowing out the margin, winning 10.11 (71)-8.3 (51).

Lobb said it was a stress free game for him on the side lines.

“I don’t think the scoreboard reflected where the game was at,” he said.

“We dominated the game.

“Jaidyn[Caruana]cameofflateandthought we were 10 or 11 goals up and it was only 15-16 points.

“It was windy conditions and Melton Centrals were able to score when they went forward. With that in mind the guys played some good footy.”

Caruana kicked four goals in a best on ground performance, while Marcus Calvaresi had another good game.

Lobb highlighted the role of Glenn Stewart of league leading goalkicker Dylan Jobson, having come into the side the last three weeks.

Happy to come away with the solid win, Lobb had one eye on the reserves match earlier in the day.

Captain Mitch Jensen played just his fourth game of the season. He hasn’t played senior football since Anzac Day.

Lobb said the return of Jensen would give him a full squad to choose from.

“Mitch got through a full game in the reserves,” he said.

“He hasn’t played since round two and is captain of the club and one of our integral players.

“We’ve been trying to get the right mix up forward and tried a few different things. Him coming as an option adds three or four goals and however many he sets up.

The Redbacks sneak in

By Tara Murray

Romsey may have left it to the last quarter of theregularseason,butitdidenoughtoqualify for the Riddell District Football League finals.

The Redbacks needed to win in the final round against Lancefield and hope that Macedon lost to Woodend-Hesket to take fifth spot ahead of Cats.

AtthreequartertimeboththeRedbacksand the Cats trailed in their respective matches.

A five goal final quarter would prove enough for the Redbacks to get home against the Tigers, 10.10 (70)-8.6 (54), while the Cats would fall short ending their finals hopes.

Redbacks coach Justin Sherman said there was a bit of relief to have finally locked in that finals spot.

“We are excited,” he said.

“We have three teams in the finals and I don’t know the last time we did that.

“The club is in a good position and we’re really happy. We were the final piece of the puzzle.

“We had a really hard pre-season and it’s a reward for effort.”

The Redbacks led at the first two changes on Saturday against Lancefield, before the Tigers kicked five goals in the third quarter to open up an eight point lead heading into the final.

The Redbacks steadied late to come away with the win.

Sherman said the Tigers made them really work for it.

“It was pretty nerve racking,” he said.

“The boys were really challenged and it’s one area that we have struggled with this season, coming from behind to win.

“Lancefield challenged us and we were up for the fight. The boys found a way to up the ante when it was needed.”

Jack Jedwab kicked four goals for the Redbacks, while Corey Pertzel chipped in with three goals.

Sherman said it was their leaders that really stood up late when it was needed to get them over the line.

He highlighted the performance of Jaxson Kinnear, who moved into the ruck in the final quarter, as pivotal.

Shermansaidnowthattheyareinthefinals, they are confident that they can match it with any of the other teams.

“We just need to challenge them for long enough,” he said. “We do it for three or four quarters, the challenge is to do it for four quarters,

“Anything is possible and we go in as underdogs but our best footy is more than good enough and we will go in and take it on.”

The Redbacks will face Riddell on Sunday

in an elimination final. Wallan will play Woodend-Hesket in the qualifying final, while Diggers Rest has the week off.

Sherman said they were ready to try and end the Bombers hopes of back-to-back premierships.

“They are the reigning premiers for a

reason,” he said.

“They are a really good side and play tough, hard footy and move the ball strongly. We’ll try and curtail their ball movement.

“We’ll look to bring our best when it counts.”

“With players injured and unavailable I have not had to make too many calls. I would rather be in this position and picking who players and there will be a few who miss out.”

The Burras have the first week of finals off and will play the winner of Woodend-Hesket and Wallan for a spot in the grand final.

Lobb said they would just try and keep it as normal as possible.

“We’ll train heavier in the week and do some match simulation, so we don’t slip off.”

In the other final match up, Riddell play will Romsey in an elimination final.

Tara Murray

McCarthy new Tigers coach

New Kyneton Tigers coach Brendan McCarthy is looking forward to the new challenge in the Country Basketball League this season.

McCarthy, who captained the side last season, will coach the team this year with former coach Ash Clark to coach the women’s team this season.

McCarthy said he just wanted to do what was best for the club.

“It’s very exciting and I’m pretty stoked about it,” he said. “Stepping up from being captain is a bit of a leap, but I wouldn’t be stepping up without such a good team and very supportive association and family network.”

McCarthy said he had never really planned on coaching, but when the opportunity arose he was happy to step up into the role.

He said he would continue to play this season, with plenty of support through assistant coaches on the bench to make the job easier.

McCarthy said this season he wanted tocontinuebuildingontheworkthey’ve done the last couple of seasons.

Last year, the Tigers didn’t win a match.

“The expectation is to start winning a few matches and then look at finals, but we will take it game by game,” he said.

“We’ve had a big pre-season to get us fit and right to play. Even though the last two seasons didn’t look good on the charts, we’ve come a long way as a team.

“The culture of the team, the men’s and women’s has been exceptional. Other players know that the culture is good and it’s a credit to us.”

McCarthy said they would have a similar line up to last season, with a couple of additions.

They’ve signed a new development player, while Jordan Mangan returns to the black and yellow.

Mangan, who was previously selected in an Australian under-17 team, hasn’t played for the Tigers for a few years.

McCarthy said Mangan would be a big inclusion for them.

“He will have a good leadership role,” he said. “He loved the club and has that real good team attribute as well.”

Tara Murray

Jaxson Kinnear (Ljubica Vrankovic) 347355_11