Star Weekly - Sunbury Macedon Ranges - 29th August 2023

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Rotary steps in to help

Sunbury and surrounding residents are invited to apply for grants through the Rotary Club of Sunbury Sports and Recreation Foundation.

Since its inception in 1972, Sunbury Rotary has assisted young people in their pursuit of excellence through the foundation. Irish dancer Olivia, 13, is the latest recipient of a $500 grant, which helped her to attend an International Irish Dancing competition in Nashville, Tennessee.

Sunbury Rotary member Terry Grant said the foundation has assisted many residents attend various sports and recreation events.

“The Sports and Recreation Foundation [has] supported young folk in their endeavours … by offering donations that assist the people with their travel expenses,” he said. “Should there be any other young folk seeking to further their particular field please do not hesitate to contact us on our website.”

Olivia also competed at a national competition on August 19 and 20, in Glenroy. Following this success, Olivia was invited to attend a competition in Glasgow, Scotland.

Details: https://www. rotaryclubsunbury.org.au/ Zoe

Redefining January 26

By Zoe Moffatt

Macedon Ranges council is redefining its relationship with January 26, and will not host events on that day next year, following a heated debate on the topic.

At its meeting on August 23, council voted to hold the annual community awards and citizenship ceremony on January 25, and to increase the Australia Day grants program funding cap to $1000. Council said the three Traditional Owner Countries that are located in Macedon Ranges council area indicated

100 per cent support for changing the date of Australia Day in a City of Melbourne survey.

Councillor Geoff Neil passionately argued against the motion and said he may not be “woke”, but he has “woken up”.

“On the 26th of January, 1949 Australian nationality came into existence when the Nationality and Citizenship Act of 1948 was enacted. This was the day we were first called Australians,” he said.

“The act… gives Australians old and new the right to live under the protection of Australian law united as one nation.

Mary-Anne Thomas MP Member for Macedon

“We just want to destroy our own history… I may not be woke, but I have woken up and I do not like what I can see.”

Cr Jennifer Anderson spoke for the motion and said people in the community have said to herthattheydonotwantthecitizensceremony to be held on January 26.

“Change is always difficult and sometimes it’s more difficult for some people than others,” she said.

“More and more people are saying [they] want a date that’s not on the Australian Day holiday because for them, they feel they want

to be part of an Australia that embraces all Australians.

“We don’t forget history, we don’t throw it out, history is history, we learn as we go and we learn to be inclusive.

“First Nations people in the Macedon Ranges… have told us that they feel uncomfortable and do not want to take part in anything that occurs on January 26.”

Cr Rob Guthrie, Cr Anderson, mayor Annette Death, Cr Mark Ridgeway and Cr Janet Pearce voted for the motion. Cr Neil and Cr Dominic Bonanno voted against.

Moffatt

Olivia, 13, received a grant from Sunbury Rotary for Irish dancing. (Damjan Janevski) 354688_03

Devil is in the detail for local law

By Zoe Moffatt

The Hume community has called on council to be more specific about its new local laws in regards to the burning of offensive material.

At a meeting on August 14, Hume councillors voted to adopt the new general purpose local laws, which will come into effect on Monday, September 4.

Law 46 states a person must not burn, or cause or allow to be burned offensive emissions of smoke and odour to enter any neighbouring property.

Also a person must not place or use an incinerator, light or cause or allow to be lit, a fire in the open air on any land less than 4000 square metres without a permit.

They must also not light a fire on land 4000 square metres or greater in a designated bushfire prone area, except where the fire is lit for genuine fuel reduction purposes.

Council received an objection to the laws, which called for treated or painted wood to be listed as an offensive material.

“While the list of excluded items is not specifically limited to the items listed [in

the laws], not listing items that are a known problem fails to address this current issue in the community,” the objector said.

“In fact it’s clearly viewed by the community that it’s more important to list the prohibition ofburningtreatedwoodthanitistofoodwaste or fish, which is strangely specifically listed.

“This is obviously a concern of residents, particularly due to the high prevalence of online advertisements of treated pallets, fence palings and the like.

“These items are usually offered for free but often fail to mention that burning such items

Carrying the torch for Legacy work

For Sunbury resident and daughter of Air Force mechanic, Errel Gray, 2023 represents an important year and an opportunity to give back to a cause close to her heart.

Ms Gray has been eagerly awaiting the opportunity to carry this year’s Legs for Legacy torch, which left Pozeiers in France on Anzac Day.

Legs for Legacy is a fundraising effort to provide financial, emotion and social support for veterans’ families.

For Ms Gray, Legacy provided this support when her father died after returning from World War II.

“When my father died my mother had four children under eight and a farm to run. She knew absolutely nothing except raising children and cooking,” she said. “That’s where Legacy came into play.”

A legatee regularly began visiting the farm to support the family.

Ms Gray said the support meant the children were able to go on holidays and have Christmas parties with other families who had been similarly affected.

“In later years, Legacy supported us as we left home and ventured to Melbourne to study, find housing and further our careers. If not for Legacy, our lives would have been very different.

“I am very grateful to Legacy for all they do for all families, and to call myself a junior legatee.

“I am going to be very honoured, humbled and extremely emotional on the day running with the torch held high in the memory of my father.”

Ms Gray will complete her torch run on September 19, in Ballarat, and is focusing on fundraising as much as possible in the lead up.

Details: https://www.legsforlegacy.com.au/ fundraisers/ErrelGray

will release toxins.”

Cr Karen Sherry said the local laws have been developed with the intention to respond to key safety and amenity concerns, and these two laws work hand in hand to protect the community.

“For [private property open air burning] you have to have a permit and be on a pretty big bit of land,” she said.

“SoIthinkthatreallydoesworkwelltogether to ensure we can protect the community from obnoxious fumes and other things associated with that.”

Airport noise monitors go live

Bulla residents will now be able to access aircraft noise data in almost real time, following the installation of noise monitors.

Melbourne Airport has installed three new portable noise monitors in Keilor, Sunshine and Bulla, to provide the public with accurate measurements of overhead flight noise.

These relocatable monitors will supplement the six permanent noise monitors already located in nearby suburbs by Airservices Australia.

Melbourne Airport chief executive Lorie Argus said the new monitors’ placement was flexible and could be moved to capture data in other communities if required.

“These monitors will provide local residents and businesses with more information to enable them to get an accurate idea of what noise events look like in their neighbourhood,” she said.

“The initial locations have been chosen based on community feedback and extensive testing to ensure there is minimal contamination from other noise sources such as major roads and wildlife.

“We know that noise generated by airport operations is a source of concern for some local residents and we hope these monitors will instil faith that we are working with them.”

Ms Argus said the monitor installation is a direct response to community feedback from the public exhibition last year of Melbourne Airport’s Third Runway project.

“We listened to the feedback during community consultation … which highlighted the desire for more data and through collaboration with Airservices Australia we are now able to provide that.”

(Damjan Janevski) 355205_04

relay uniform.

Details: https://webtrak.emsbk.com/ mel3

‘A step further’: Hume plans for healthy biodiversity future

Hume council has set its direction for the sustainable management of natural and cultural heritage assets through its draft Land and Biodiversity Plan.

AtameetingonAugust14,councillorsvoted to endorse the draft Land and Biodiversity Plan 2023-30 (plan) and draft Land and BiodiversityActionPlan2023-24(actionplan) for community consultation.

A key strategic objective of the plan is to facilitate appropriate urban development and enhance the natural environment, heritage landscapes and rural places.

Council said its function is to provide community services, act as a statutory

authority, facilitate service delivery, and act on behalf of the community.

Speaking at the meeting, councillor Karen Sherry said the plan is one of the most important pieces of work that council does.

“We’ve had previous plans, such as the Land and Biodiversity Plan 2015-19, but this takes it a step further,” Cr Sherry said.

“The work that we do on conserving our rural environment, the grasslands work that we do is very well recognised.

“The grants we provide to private landholders to restore and do weeding and … bring the land back to assemblance of what it might’ve been pre-colonial days [is] very

important work.

“The kinds of biodiverse flora and fauna on this private land is the kind of thing that is going to be more climate resistant.

“I think it’s wonderful we’re done this and we’ve continued to consult the community and put resources into this.”

The 2023-30 plan follows the 2015-19 plan, in which council committed to 21 actions across three goals. Thirteen actions were completed and seven actions are ongoing and have been carried over.

Annual action plans will be developed for council endorsement throughout the life of the plan until 2030.

The five themes of the 2023-24 action plan include: healthy and thriving network of conservation reserves, well-connected landscape for wildlife, urban biodiversity and health and wellbeing, landscape rich in cultural heritage and healthy and productive rural landscape.

The plan will be made available for public exhibition on the Participate Hume website, and council said feedback will be considered and incorporated where appropriate. The final plan will be presented to council for endorsement in November.

Zoe Moffatt

Errel Gray in her Legacy Torch

Road to two more lanes

Motorists are getting a taste of new lanes on Sunbury Road, as the key arterial is widened from two to four lanes.

On Tuesday, August 15, 2.5 kilometres of the new lanes started to open to traffic, and Major Road Projects Victoria program director Dipal Sorathia said it was great for motorists to experiece the progress.

“Crews are making significant progress on the Sunbury Road Upgrade as we introduce new traffic arrangements to allow for the next stages of construction,” Mr Sorathia said.

“Thank you to the entire community for theircontinuedpatience.We’reurgingallroad users to familiarise themselves and observe changed traffic conditions in the area.”

As works progress, crews will be moving traffic onto sections of the outer new lanes until late September to set up new work areas and complete upgrades to the center median at intersections.

Traffic on Sunbury Road has been shifted onto the newly built sections of road, between Bulla-Diggers Rest-Loemans Road to Maplestone Drive.

While crews undertake this work, motorists should observe changed traffic arrangements, including speed reductions to 40 kilometers per hour and be aware of local road and access closures.

One lane in each direction will be open along Sunbury Road while crews continue to build the extra lanes and upgrade key intersections.

These traffic arrangements will be in place until late September, and access continues to be maintained for emergency services in the area.

As well as the intersection upgrades, drivers will benefit from an extra lane in each direction between Powlett Street and

Bulla-Diggers Rest-Loemans Road.

Traffic lights have also been added to the intersection of Lancefield Road and Francis Boulevard and lights will also be installed at the entrance to the Sunbury Eco-Hub.

Construction of the new bridge over

Volunteer grants open

Volunteer-based organisatons in Hawke are encouraged to apply for available community grants worth between $1000 and $5000.

The federal government volunteer grants program provides funding for eligible organisations to purchase equipment, cover fuel costs, training costs or activities to increase volunteer participation.

Goonawarra Neighbourhood House previously received $3300 to cover the reimbursement of travel costs, as well as the purchase of planter boxes to teach children about gardening.

Neighbourhood house manager Isabella Rosinsky said community volunteers help power the house and the activities they can provide.

“Goonawarra Neighbourhood House provides an important community service for locals, and we’re powered by our amazing volunteers,” Ms Rosinsky said.

“This grant means we’re able to keep our gardening, food relief and Wednesday lunch programs running.

“All of which will benefit from our new veggie garden, and we can give back to our hard-working volunteers.”

Hawke MP Sam Rae welcomed the funding opportunity and encouraged organisations to get involved.

Jacksons Creek is due for completion by the end of the year.

A new cyclist and pedestrian path has been built along Sunbury Road from the Jacksons Creek bridge to Goonawarra. Details: bigbuild.vic.gov.au

Expression of interest applications close on September 4, at 5pm.

Details: htps://samraeforhawke.com. au/volunteer-grants-23-24/, 9070 1960 or sam.rae.mp@aph.gov.au

Expect bargains galore

Romsey residents are busy preparing for the annual whole town garage sale on September 9, with bargains expected to be everywhere.

The garage sale will be held from 8am to 12.30pm, with maps available for purchase at the Romsey Hub. The money raised will go towards the completion of the community foodshare.

Romsey Neighbourhood House administrator Meisze Law said the garage sale has been running since 2010, and in the past they have had up to 60 households participate.

“[The items for sale] range from household items, furniture, garden equipment, antiques, clothing, toys, books, bric a brac, jewellery, plantsandpreloveditemsthatdeserveasecond life,” she said.

“Anyone far or close are welcome to join in. Inthepastwehadpeoplecomingfromasfaras Beechworth, Frankston and Echuca.”

“There sure will be something for everyone. Bargains are everywhere.”

Ms Law said the event is more than about grabbing a bargain, and the best items to sell are the ones sitting in the storage and not being utilized. “[The] garage sales goes beyond just to grab a bargain. It is about living sustainably, reduce waste.

“Billions tons of rubbish are sent to landfills every year, wouldn’t it be great if we could reduce this waste by reuse and upcycling.

“The whole-town garage sale is one of our biggest annual fundraising events, [and] this yearthemoneyraisedwillgotothecompletion of our community foodshare.

“We will need money to complete the plumbing work that is required.”

Details: https://bit.ly/3P0pOMz

Zoe Moffatt

(L-R) Romsey Neighbourhood House volunteers Roham Patroo, Lily Crimmins and Sasha Hayes getting ready for the upcoming whole town garage sale. (Damjan Janevski) 354661_02

Information can be found on the bigbuild.vic.gov.au website. (Supplied)

Hanging Rock future set

By Zoe Moffatt

The Hanging Rock Reserve is set to expand, following the state government’s purchase of the east paddock and release of a new master plan.

Environment Minister Ingrid Stitt announced the $3 million investment on August 18, which was welcomed by Macedon RangescouncilandTourismMacedonRanges.

The master plan will provide a pathway for the future management of the reserve and protect its cultural significance. Ms Stitt said it is a step closer to achieving long-term protection.

“We are getting on with implementing the 50-year Hanging Rock Strategic Plan to ensure the development and management of Hanging Rock remains sustainable for years to come,” she said.

Traditional Owners groups and Macedon Ranges council were also consulted in the master plan development, which outlines new actions to sustainably promote the regions cultural heritage.

The plan also outlines developments to improve visitor experience, including a new revegetated ’Songline’ walking trail and a visitor centre that will act as a hub for dining and education purposes.

Macedon Ranges mayor Annette Death said the sale and master plan would help ensure the site’s cultural and environmental significance is progressively enhanced over the coming decades.

“Welookforwardtocontinuingtoworkwith the Victorian government and Traditional Owner groups … to provide a truly unique visitor experience that champions the site as a historically special meeting place,” she said. “Council will also continue to work closely with the Victorian government and Hanging

Rock sporting groups on what the endorsed master plan will mean for them in the short and long term.

“[Including a] focus on finding suitable new spaces that meet their needs into the future.”

Council will continue to manage the day-to-day operations for at least another three years, and said it considered the sale price of the paddock as suitable and within market range.

Tourism Macedon Ranges chair Andrew Towner said the plan is a wonderful outcome for the Macedon Ranges.

“[It] ensures that the environmental and

Sunbury mural makes splash

Sunbury will continue to be splashed with colour following $60,000 of new funding for the Hume mural program.

Hume council unveiled the newest mural addition at the Sunbury Library children’s area on August 28.

At the unveiling mayor Joseph Haweil announced new funding to continue the Mural Program past the 2022-23 series.

“Our Mural Program has done wonders for building a sense of community and ownership of our public spaces,” Cr Haweil said. “By consulting with residents and supporting local artists to express themselves, we are championing connection to each other.

“[While also championing] a feeling of wellbeing, safety and belonging in our streets through the creation of these public pieces.

“Council is excited to continue commissioning these murals in support of the diverse and colourful contribution that the program has made to Hume.”

cultural heritage of iconic Hanging Rock is protected for future generations, while delivering improvements … for locals and visitors alike.”

Over the coming months, council said it will carefully assess the best strategic management of these funds for the long-term benefit of the community.

Theeastpaddockintegratedintothereserve, and events there will be carefully managed to limit impacts on nature and the surrounding environment.

Details: forestsandreserves.vic.gov.au/ initiatives/hanging-rock-project.

The giant art wall at the library was paintedoverseveralweeksbyMelbourne artist Hayden Dewar who was also part of Hume’s first two pilot mural sites in 2020.

A timelapse video of Mr Dewar painting the work was shown, along with a video summary of the many other mural sites which can be found across Hume.

Council’s Mural Program commissions designs that celebrate and enhance public spaces, helping to build belonging, connection and social engagement around each site.

12628828-FC35-23

Macedon Ranges mayor Annette Death, DJARRA representative Liz Allen, Environment Minister Ingrid Stitt, Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung representative Uncle Perry Wandin, Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas, Taungurung representative Michael Harding and Macedon Ranges chief executive Bernie O’Sullivan. (Supplied)

Read, grow and inspire

Children across Sunbury were out in force last week dressed as their favourite characters for this year’s Book Week.

Dulap Wilim Kinder attended the parade at Sunbury Heights Primary School on Wednesday, August 23, for the first time and would like to make it a tradition for many more years to come.

Kinder teacher Eliza McDonald said the children had a fantastic time and there were a lot of standout costumes.

“The parade went for an hour, and children from kinder to year 6, including teachers were part of the parade,” Ms McDonald said.

“It was such an amazing event for Dulap Kinder to be part of … and we saw so many fantastic costumes.

“[We saw] teachers dressed as Princess Fiona to students dressed up as Indiana Jones, Alice in Wonderland, Harry Potter and so many more.

“At kinder we had lots of Elsa, superheros, gecko’s, storm troopers, bumble bee and … our winning costume from the parade was Alaska wearing Belle.

“Alaska was lucky enough to receive a voucher that was kindly donated by Sunbury Collins Book store.”

Ms McDonald said Book Week is a great way to celebrate reading, and get children involved.

“The annual celebration in Australia is a much anticipated event that aims to ignite a love of reading amongst young children,” she said.

“Research shows that reading for pleasure improves students’ reading skills, as well as their learning outcomes, which is why events such as book week are so important in the early years.”

Briefs

Trout stockings

Sunbury fishers are closer to reeling in a big catch with more rainbow trout stocked into Spavin Drive Lake. Sunbury MP Josh Bull, Outdoor Recreation Minister Sonya Kilkenny and Veterans Minister Natalie Suleyman met at the lake on August 23 to each release trophy-sized trout weighing up to five kilograms. Fishing licences are now free for Victorian Veterans Card holders and Little Angler Kits are provided to the next generation in time for summer holidays. The trout fishing season re-opens on Saturday, September 2.

Mock training

The Melton community witnessed some commotion last week with a response of more than 16 fire trucks to a structure fire, fortunately it was just a mock exercise. On Sunday, August 20, Gisborne CFA joined forces with10 other CFA’s and FRV to undertake a large-scale mock incident as part of CFA’s Mt Cottrell Group’s training exercises. The crews met at 8.45am at Tabcorp park in Melton for the pre-briefing and then the exercise took place in a real time call-out scenario to a structure fire at a local food processing factory in Melton.

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Zoe Moffatt

Dulap Kinder dressed up for book week (Damjan Janevski). 353378_03

Taking the plunge to a better lifestyle with GemLife

The security and peace of mind that comes withbeingahomeowneratGemLifeWoodend over-50s lifestyle resort are among key reasons David and Wendy McKay downsized and took up residence there earlier this year.

“The move was something we had been thinking about for many years and when we were fed up with all the maintenance and upkeep required at our previous and much larger home and were finally ready to move, we took the plunge, and couldn’t be happier,“ said Wendy.

Having lived at nearby Gisborne for the past 43 years, David and Wendy knew the area well and were not surprised to find many familiar faces already living at the resort when they arrived.

“A lot of former `Gisbornites’ are now our neighbours here at GemLife Woodend,“ said Wendy.

The couple loved everything about the resort and were especially impressed with the style and layout of their north-facing home which also featured big windows across the back to make the most of the sun.

“It’s such a beautiful place. Our spacious home also has zoned, electric heating and double-glazed windows which is wonderful in all types of weather. In addition, the facilities are first class, and we are only a short walk from the fabulous Country Club,“ said Wendy.

David and Wendy, who have been married for 53 years, were also impressed with the number of hobbies and interests that could be pursued within the GemLife resort.

“We haven’t been able to get right into it yet but I have been to the gym a few times. There are so many things to do or get involved in ranging from writing clubs, mahjong and craftwork to ten-pin bowling, walking and cycling groups. There seems to be something for everyone.“

They also love the security that GemLife’s gated community offers.

“We can go away at any time without worrying about anything at all. It’s such a great feeling,“ said the couple.

The last of GemLife Woodend’s Final Stage home sites are selling now. Each site features one of a selection of three-bedroom home designs with between 187sqm to 212sqm of living space, a generous array of premium

inclusions and designer finishes plus a 6-star energy rating.

Telephone 1800 931 188 to find out more at gemlife.com.au

Sunbury show stoppers

The Sunbury Agriculture Show has returned following its 100th birthday last year, and organisersareplanningtotaketheshowtonew heights this year.

The show will be held at Clarke Oval on October 14, and will include family-friendly entertainment, live music, performances, carnival games and street food.

Pavilion steward Sandie Braun said last year’sshowwasaspecialcelebrationwithabout 15,000 people in attendance.

“[Last year] during the whole day and evening we had a large crowd and even into the evening the grounds were humming,” Ms Braun said.

“We estimate our total attendance could have been around the 15,000 mark and we would love to see the same numbers this year, although there will be no evening show and no fireworks.”

The show invites unique and innovative

stalls and vendors to get involved, and Ms Braunsaidtherearenobarrierstovolunteering at the show.

“Anybodywhoisinterestedinhelpinguswill be very welcome, and all ages are included.

“Some of our volunteers have been helping … since they were about 10 years old, and we also have several who are in their 80s.”

Show secretary Narelle Reino said some of thehighlightsincludebattleoftheschoolchoirs with eight schools, and young ambassador competitions.

“[There will be] dog high jump and small dog dash, pet parade, local dance schools and singing schools, First Nation arts and crafts, sheep shearing demonstration, horse events, carnivalandshowbags,camelridesandmore.”

Anyone who is interested in volunteering or in a stall or vendor space should contact the show.

Zoe Moffatt

Sunbury Agriculture Show pavilion steward Sandie Braun, president Kate George, horse steward Jane Gerber and her grandson Boston. (Damjan Janevski. 355419_01

Fed up with the maintenance and upkeep of a large home in Gisborne, David and Wendy McKay downsized and moved to GemLife Woodend over-50s lifestyle resort, and they’ve never been happier. (Supplied)

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

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

Music and singalong

Bring your instrument or your voice to a social group for adults. Songs with lyrics and chords can be viewed on the big screen, all skill sets welcome. Wednesdays

9am-noon, at Sunbury Neighbourhood House, 531 Elizabeth Drive, Sunbury.

■ www.sunburyhouse.com.au

Local camera club

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

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.

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

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

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, 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

Keilor Park Drive, Keilor Park, 3042, or email to westeditorial@starweekly.com.au

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Staughton College school students Violet (front), Darcy Bethany Robin and Madison preparing for the school’s production ‘Alice’s Adventures Absolutely Anywhere’. (Damjan Janevski) 354992_01

When should you use a PPCC?

By Christopher Carter, Chief Cxecutive, North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network

You’ve probably heard people talking about Priority Primary Care Centres, or PPCCs, and perhaps wondered how they work and when –or even if – you should visit one.

These are good questions. With the whole health care system seemingly changing a lot recently it’s hardly surprising that people find it tricky to keep up with what’s what.

The best way to think about PPCCs is that they sit halfway between your regular doctor and the hospital emergency department.

They are set up to treat urgent but not life-threatening things. These might be injuries like a bad sprain or a burn or a possible broken bone, or they might be illnesses that develop quickly and make you feel crook enough to need help – but not so sick that you need to call an ambulance.

Your regular doctor, of course, could easily deal with these matters – but perhaps there aren’t any appointments available right away, or perhaps when you realise you need help it’s the evening, or the weekend.

And doctors at hospital emergency departments could also treat them. The issue there, though, is that they are very busy and committed to dealing with life-threatening conditions first. This means, if you’re unwell or injured but not in mortal danger, you might end up waiting for hours.

PPCCs are funded by the Victorian and Australian governments to fit neatly within that gap.

They are staffed by GPs and nurses and have services such as pathology and imaging, close by or in the same building. They are open seven days a week and usually for long hours. You can make an appointment to visit a

15 Cypress Court, Romsey

PPCC, but you can also just roll up. After you check in with the reception staff, the chances are that you will be seen, and treated, much faster than if you rocked up to the hospital. But how do you decide whether you need the emergency department or a PPCC? Well, either way you’re supported. Every PPCC is linked directly to a hospital and to Ambulance Victoria, so if the doctor there decides you need to life-saving emergency care in a hospital setting they can get you there very fast.

What if you need help in the middle of the nightandthePPCCisclosed?Youcanlogonto the Victorian Virtual Emergency Department – vved.org.au – and talk to an emergency doctor from the comfort of your couch.

All PPCCs provide treatments free (although there might be a charge for pathology and so forth), and do so whether or not you have a Medicare card.

But there are some things they are not set up to do. If you need a doctor to review your

chronic disease management plan, or your asthma plan, or to help with you with an insurance or compo claim, PPCCs aren’t the place to go. Save that for your regular GP and leave the PPCCs for people who need urgent care there and then.

There are 27 PPCCs in Victoria, including several in Melbourne’s western and northern suburbs.Tofindyourclosestgotobetterhealth. vic.gov.au/priority-primary-care-centresppccs

Dancers set to dazzle

Melbourne is set to dazzle with glittering, lavish, breathtaking, modern glamour of Club Vegas, and two Macedon Ranges residents will be front and centre.

For Gisborne resident Audrey Stein-Reeves, 21, Club Vegas will be her first performance as a professional dancer and the opportunity to live out her childhood dream.

“I started ballet when I was four years old and I did it my entire life,” Ms Stein-Reeves said.

“Since I was younger I always wanted to be a dancer, and as I’ve grown my interest has moved to include musical theatre and singing.”

Ms Stein-Reeves said she trains at Robert Sturrock Dance Company with Woodend resident, Emily Zumstein, 19, and they have

been working hard at full-time training.

“We train Monday to Friday, and work on everything from ballet, tap, latin, hip hop, commercial jazz, to contemporary, and there is a signing element as well,” she said.

“Iloveitsomuchanditstillfeelsverysurreal that I’m officially working in the industry.

“The show itself is a Vegas cabaret, so it has lots of different acts such as singing, dancing, comedy and acrobatics.

“It’s a combination of different acts that you would see in Vegas but it will be in Melbourne.”

Club Vegas will run for two nights in Melbourne on September 1 and 2, at the Athenaeum Theatre, before travelling up to the Gold Coast.

PPCCs make it easier to access healthcare. (iStock)

Zoe Moffatt

Woodend resident Emily Zumstein (left) and Gisborne resident Audrey Stein-Reeves (right). (Tim Carrafa)

Bombers ready to soar in AFLW

With the AFLW season quickly approaching it’s time to check in on how the Bombers are approaching the year. Harper Sercombe chatted with Amelia Radford from Essendon to hear her thoughts on the pre-season and what to expect from the Bombers in season 8 of the AFLW.

After finishing 10th in their first season in the AFLW, Essendon is seeking to take the next step in season 8.

Bomber’s VFLW premiership player and inaugural member of the AFLW side Amelia Radford said they are counting down the days to their round one clash with Hawthorn.

“Last year’s round one game against Hawthorn was amazing and I think it was a nightthatwe’llallremember…we’reallequally excited, and we definitely want to get the win again to continue the tradition,” Radford said. Togettoopeningnightoftheseasonisalong roadformanyoftheplayersincludingRadford, who put in a lot of hard work playing with Essendon’s VFLW side preparing themselves for the AFLW.

“Most of us have been training since early in the year, around March in the VFL program and had a week or two to reset and recover, then straight into the AFL preseason which started about three months ago now,” she said.

The pre-season for the Bombers has been about developing relationships and connections that will hopefully take the group to where they want to be. With a trip west to face the Eagles over the weekend, Radford said the timing was perfect.

“Continuing to build our culture and set really high standards so we can have a successful program,” she said.

“I think getting away as a team is always a good opportunity to do that, to spend some time with more players and different players away from the club setting.

“It’s a really good opportunity for us to play our brand of footy and build on what we’ve been building on in the off-season.”

In the off-season the Bombers brought in six players to fill some holes within their list, including adding some much needed experience. Brooke Walker, Brooke Brown, Kodi Jacques, Georgia Nanscawen, Matilda Dyke, Leah Cutting were added to the list.

“A lot of them are primarily defenders to build and bolster our back line a bit more,” Radford said.

“They’ve all been settling in really well. We’ve all got to get to know them a lot better, they’re amazing footballers and they bring a lot to the football program.

“It’snicetohavesomerefreshingfacesinour program and they continue to drive really high standards which is good.”

Although, there has been one player who has caught Radford’s eye, much to the delight of Bombers supporters.

“Maddy Presprakis is already at that next level but what she’s done in the off-season, for herself to work on the areas that she wanted to workon,specificallyaroundherfitnessandher leadership,” she said.

“She’s an amazing leader in the off season for a lot of us girls that were playing VFL, coming to all our games, helping us with training and providing us feedback.

“She’s continued that into the AFL program and is a real leader of the group now which is awesome to see.”

PrespakisandRadfordwillbekeystounlock whattheBombersaresettingouttoachievethis season with finals aspirations on the agenda.

“We just want to compete with the best, and compete every week and have a consistent performance,”Radfordsaid.“Thegoaloffinals, et cetera, will hopefully take care of itself and be reflected in our hard work.

“We know that we need to continually

improve to get there but that’s our ultimate goal.”

TheBombersarebackattheirspiritualhome of Windy Hill for the upcoming season. After being largely on the road for season 7, it’s a welcomed change.

“It’s very exciting, we want to build it as our fortress as our home ground,” Radford said.

“We played a few games there over the last few weeks, we’re going to be doing some training there as well.

“I think it’s going to be good for all the fans to get down and watch us at Windy Hill and to have that home fortress and hopefully we can win all our home games.”

Radford has been a proven ball winner at

the VFLW level, having averaged more than 21 disposals in the competition, including a patch of three games where she was averaging 29 touches, showing off her cleanliness at ground level and aerial abilities.

Although in the AFLW she wasn’t able to have the same form from her seven games, something that she said is a focus of hers.

“I had a handful of games in the inside midfield and was able to get my hands on it a lot which was great for my own belief and my own confidence,” she said. “In the AFL, I think it’ll be a combination of playing inside where I can win the contest and get it out to the players around me.But also on the wing, working on my running capacity, running both ways and

getting the ball a bit more in space and not getting contested possessions the whole time.”

With the women’s season starting in the bye between the men’s home and away season and finalsseries,adateagainstHawthornawaitson Saturday, September 2 under lights at Kinetic Stadium.

Other than the season opener there was one game that Radford was particularly looking forward to.

“We play Collingwood on grand final day at the AIA Centre, at 11am, if Collingwood’s men’s team are in the grand final and we’re playing down in that precinct early in the morning. I think that would be a pretty special day,” she said.

Amelia Radford. (Essendon FC) Inset: Maddy Prespakis. (AAP Image/Hamish Blair)

‘‘ It’s very exciting, we want to build it as our fortress as our home ground ’’ - Amelia Radford

PUZZLES QUICK CROSSWORD

No. 148

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.

ACROSS

1 Plant yielding gingili oil (6)

4 Area; zone (8)

9 Donkeys (5)

10 Heedless (9)

11 Garment (5)

12 Characterised by regular lines (9)

13 Useless person or thing (4,4)

15 Interior courtyard (6)

16 Discharge (6)

18 Moving out (from) (8)

23 Point to be judged upon (9)

24 “I don’t know” (colloq) (5)

26 Undervalue (9)

27 Japanese camera company (5)

28 A city and seaport of Scotland (8)

29 Attempts (6)

DOWN

1 Began (7)

2 Actress, – Sarandon (5)

3 Melodious (7)

5 Use to insert charge into muzzle-loading firearm (6)

6 Harmony (7)

7 Egyptian queen (9)

8 Old name of phone company (7)

10 Spurs on (5)

14 Accept reluctantly (9)

16 Scene of simple pleasure (7)

17 Island in the North Atlantic (7)

19 Skin disease (5)

20 Gnawing animals (7)

21 Sediment (7)

22 Conclusion (6)

25 Mobile phone company (5)

DECODER WORDFIT

1 14

2 15

3 16

4 17

5 18

6 19

7 20

8 21

9 22

10 23

11 24

12 25

12 345678910111213

561274893

894631275

483756912 147362589

629143758 258917364

372598641

936485127

412853976

921438765

347965812

735691428 273586149

698247531 154329687

easy medium hard

586712394

869174253

12 words: Good

24 words: Excellent Aim:

473281659

862735491

345196287

715829436 784962315

251679843 136457928

698543172 529318764

917824536

N L D

G R E

N E

Today’s 3 LETTERS ADO ARE ASH BOA DDT DUD EAT EEL EGO FEZ GEE HOE ILL MAN MEW NEE NET ODE OPT PEA PEN RIG TOP 4 LETTERS AIDE ALSO DAFT DESK FAST GIGS GORY HASH MASS MESS OARS SEES SENT SPIT UFOS 5 LETTERS ADOBE

1415 1617181920212223242526 I U A Y G E P S B K C X W T Q O M H V N R L D J F Z Insert the missing letters to make 10 words – five reading across the grid and five reading down. NOTE: more than one solution may be possible

L I T T G

E

N E S B A S E R E L U D E G O R G E A N G E L N E E D S

QUICK QUIZ

IDOLS MANGE MEMOS MERES MERIT MOODS OMEGA PANDA PAPAS PASTA PEEPS ROAMS SEATS SHAME SLEWS SNEAK SNOWS SPANS SPATS STEAM STEER

TIMES TWIST VERGE 6 LETTERS ASSENT ECZEMA OCTAVE STRAND 7 LETTERS BIRTHED DRAINED FILTERS SLASHED

STOPPER WINSOME 8 LETTERS COMPARES GONDOLAS STRIDDEN SUBLIMES 11 LETTERS HODGEPODGES STANDARDISE

01-09-23 Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

1 For which 1999 film did R.E.M. write TheGreatBeyond?

2 And which US entertainer is the film about?

3 True or false: bull sharks can tolerate both salt water and fresh water?

4 The Swiss food product Cenovis is similar to what Australian product?

5 What is the term for an infant cockroach?

6 What is the most abundant protein in the human body, constituting roughly 25 to 35 per cent?

7 Thessaloniki is the capital of which region of Greece?

8 Name the 2009 advice book for teens written by Kelly Osbourne (pictured).

9 What are the two primary ingredients of marzipan?

10 For which art movement is Émile Gallé known?

13 26 JZ ANSWERS: 1. Man on the Moon 2. Andy Kaufman 3. True 4. Vegemite 5. Nymph 6. Collagen 7. Macedonia 8. Fierce 9. Sugar and almond meal 10. Art Nouveau

No. 148

No. 148

No. 148

Grabacopyof your localnewspaper...

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

SPORTS QUIZ

1. Which women’s national football team is known as La Roja, meaning ‘The Red’?

2. What medal did Australian racewalker Jemima Montag win at the 2023 World Athletics Championships?

3. Which three-time AFL premiership coach was

4. By what nickname is England’s women’s national soccer team known?

5. Tevita Pangai Junior has announced plans to retire from the NRL and pursue a career in which sport?

6. And which NRL club does he currently play for?

Blågult, the nickname of Sweden’s women’s national soccer team, refers to which two colours?

Professional rugby union player Owen Farrell is captain of which national team?

Australian Rohan Browning made the semifinals of which event at the 2023 World Athletics Championships?

10. American basketball executive Daryl Morey is president of basketball operations for which NBA team?

11. When was the last time the reigning premiers didn’t make AFL finals the following year?

12. The Braves and the Falcons are the MLB and NFL teams respectively played out of which US city?

13. How many sports has Ellyse Perry played for Australia in?

14. Which team won the women’s soccer World Cup in 2019?

15. And who did they beat?

16. In what year did Andy Murray win his first grand slam title?

17. How many AFL players have played 400 games or more?

18. A birdie is how many strokes under par in golf?

19. What is the nickname of the Australian women’s basketball team?

20. Hollywood actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney own which soccer club?

21. Olga Carmona is the captain of which women’s national soccer team?

22.Which country will host the Men’s ICC One Day World Cup in October?

23. The 2023 comedy drama Champions is about a team that plays which sport?

24. Dyson Daniels plays for which NBA team?

25. Which AFLW team plays home matches at Mineral Resources Park?

26. Which manufacturer replaced Holden in the 2023 Supercars Championship?

27. What is the international netball competition between Australia and New Zealand known as?

28. What weight division does boxer Tim Tszyu compete in?

29. Which Australian test batsman recently joined Fox Cricket’s commentary team?

30.How many gold medals in total has Australia won at Winter Olympic Games?

Drive away from the mainstream

By Alistair Kennedy, Marque Motoring

Renault Arkana is a stylish mid-sized SUV that arrived here in 2021 effectively replacing the short-lived Kadjar in Renault’s three-model SUV range. It sits between the compact Captur and the family-sized Koleos.

It’s slightly larger than Kadjar in all exterior dimensions but with almost identical engine outputs.

Renault Arkana comes in three variants: Zen, Intens and R.S. Line. There’s a single drivetrain combining a 1.3-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine with seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and front-wheel drive.

Styling

Arkana joins an increasing trend in the evolutions of SUVs with a smoother sloping rear profile that emphasises styling rather than all-road performance. With this in mind Renault is marketing Arkana as an SUV Coupe.

Combining the two different components can be challenging but the Renault designers have managed to do it and have put together a very attractive vehicle. One feature is a high (200 mm) ground clearance which lifts the Arkana without making it look too gawky.

Arkana R.S. Line adds comes with a specific front bumper design with an F1-inspired aero blade, 18-inch diamond-cut alloys, , R.S. Line badging, gun metal grey door trims, and front and rear skid plates.

LED lighting is used extensively including the headlights; daytime running lights; tail lights and turn indicators.

A small powered sunroof is optional on the Intens and standard on the R.S Line. There are seven colour options, only Blue is standard the others are cost options.

Interior

Our test vehicle was the Arkana Intens with the optional sunroof which, together with the coupe-like lines, meant that entry proved a bit awkward. The driver’s seat has power adjustment but with a limited height range which, even at its lowest level, meant that my head grazed against the roof.

The R.S. Line has carbon-look interior trim, alloy sport pedals, a perforated leather steeringwheelwithR.S.Linebadging,redand grey contrast stitching, and R.S. badging.

It has a fully digital 10.25-inch instrument cluster, a frameless auto-dimming rear-view mirror, and a sunroof.

Rear space is excellent with surprisingly good headroom given the sloping roof and, courtesy of the 2720 mm wheelbase, plenty of kneeroom.

There’s leather and suede upholstery in the Intens and R.S. Line as well as electrically adjustable, heated and ventilated seats for both driver and front passenger.

ThecentrepieceoftheinterioroftheIntensis its9.3-inchportraitshapedtouchscreenwhich not only displays the normal infotainment features but also, through its multi-sense system, controls the pre-set Eco and Sport drive modes to adjust the powertrain and steering.

There’s also a MySense feature which allows the driver to customise these settings to suit their own individual preferences.

Directly below the touchscreen are a series of small buttons including quick access to the multi-sense system, front seat heating / cooling and door locking.

Sensibly, the air conditioning is controlled by three large knobs that are easy to reach and simple to operate. Unfortunately, the same can’t be said for the audio volume controls which require either a series of taps on small tabs at the bottom of the touchscreen or on small buttons on a steering column stalk behind the steering wheel.

There’s a good-sized space at the centre of the front console for storing smartphones and, in the R.S., includes a wireless charging

pad.TherearetwoadjacentUSBportsdirectly above it as well as AUX and 12-volt power sockets.

A small storage box sits below a slide-out armrest in the centre console.

The boot features a split-level floor that can take up to 485 litres at its lower level. With the 60/40 rear seatbacks folded that can be expanded to 1268 litres. A space-saver spare wheel sits beneath the lower floor setting.

Engine / transmission

Arkana has a 1.3-litre, four-cylinder turbo-petrol with outputs of 115 kW at 5500 rpm, and 262 Nm at 2250rpm. It drives the front wheels through a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic.

Safety

Renault Arkana comes with a five-star ANCAP safety rating with a high level of features in all variants including six airbags; electronic stability control; adaptive cruise control with speed limiter; blind spot warning; autonomous emergency braking including pedestrian and cyclist detection; lane departure warning and lane keep assist; traffic sign recognition; front, rear and side parking sensors; rear view camera; automatic headlights and windscreen wipers; ISOFIX child seat anchorage points; and tyre pressure monitoring.

The Intens and R.S.Line add rear cross traffic alert and speed limit alert.

Renault’s Easy Park Assist is standard in all models and uses a combination of sensors and rear-mounted camera for hands-free parking.

Infotainment

Arkana Zen: $37,500

Arkana Intens: $41,000

Arkana R.S.: $45,000

SPECIFICATIONS

Renault Arkana Intens 1.3-litre turbo-petrol

five-door hatchback

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

ArkanausestheRenaultEasyLinkmultimedia system through a 7.0-inch landscape touchscreen in the Zen and a 9.3-inch portrait touchscreen in the Intens and R.S.Line.

Likewise, the higher-spec variants get a 7.0-inch driver’s digital instrument cluster with the option of a full-digital 10.25-inch screen while the Zen has a 4.2-inch display.

Satellite navigation isn’t offered in the Zen but is standard in the Intens and R.S.Line.

All variants get a six-speaker Arkamys AuditoriumSoundsystem,AppleCarPlayand Android Auto connectivity.

Driving Arkana uses the Renault credit card style key and includes ‘walk-away’ automatic door locking.

Although the rear window is large, its shape together with the broad C pillars do limit side and rear visibility quite significantly.

Arkana is quite sluggish off the mark with

little low-down torque and a jerky dual-clutch transmission. Switching to Sport mode makes a big difference and, apart from motorway cruising, we spent most of our time with it switched on. There is a bit of torque steer to catch the unwary.

Steeringissharpandresponsivewiththere’s only minimal body roll through corners although it is more SUV than coupe in that regard.

Ride provides a nice balance between firmness and comfort.

The extra ground clearance infers off-road capability, however that’s offset by the absence of an all-wheel drive option.

Fuel consumption is listed at 6.0 litres per 100 kilometres, we averaged a fairly good 7.2 L/100 km.

Summing up

Renault Arkana is a classy looking, well-equipped and competent vehicle that’s suretoappealtoloversofFrenchmarquesand anyone else looking for something away from the mainstream.

In terms of pricing, Arkana can be assessed as either a budget-priced Euro premium SUV-CoupecompetitoralaAudiQ3Sportback and BMW X2 or as a fairly expensive offering inthecongestedandhighly-competitivesmall SUV segment. The buying public will make that decision.

Renault Arkana comes with a five-year unlimited kilometre warranty, five years of capped price services with an impressive 30,000km service interval and five years roadsideassistancewhentheservicesaredone by an official Renault dealer.

Renault Arkana is a classy looking SUV Coupe crossover.

(Pictures: Supplied)

Romsey sneaks through in an overtime thriller

RomseyhelditsnervelatetoovercomeWallan

in overtime in the Riddell District Netball League elimination final on Sunday.

The Redbacks had to fight every step of the way to overcome the Magpies in what turned out to be a thriller.

The Redbacks led by two goals at quarter time and the same margin at half time. It grew slightly at the final break to three goals.

The Magpies came hard in the final quarter and levelled the scores at 36 apiece to force the game into overtime With the game up for grabs, the Redbacks found another level to come away with a 45-42 win.

Redbacks coach Lena Way said it took a while for her heart to come back to earth after that result.

“It was really good and I was so proud of my girls who were able to hold it together under

pressure,” she said.

“The composure especially for the younger girls was outstanding. I’m very proud to knock off Wallan and push through to the next round.”

Way said the match had been close all day, but thought they had the upper hand for much of it until the Magpies were able to get a few late goals to force the extra time.

She said the group were able to respond in overtime to come away with the win.

“We got a few quick turnovers in the first part of overtime and the girls really held it together in the goal end.

“The defence was outstanding with pressure over the whole court. It was getting those turnovers that got us over the line.”

Way said Maggie Lind was the standout on the court in goal attack. She said the leadership shown by the experienced Lind was

really important too.

Way said Cayley Blair had a strong game in wing attack, while their younger players like Emily Miles and Emma Grech really stood up under pressure late in the game.

The Redbacks now face Macedon in a knockout semi final. The Cats lost the qualifying final to Woodend-Hesket by one goal.

Way said it was another challenge they were looking forward to.

“It should be a good game and a good match up,” she said. “I think it will be another close contest.

“They’ve got some of their players back who were injured and some of our players have come back too.”

Tara Murray

Hawks’ depth pays off

By Tara Murray

Woodend-Hesket had to use all its depth as it came from behind to win the Riddell District Netball League qualifying final against Macedon on Saturday.

The Cats led throughout the early part of the final with the margin out to as many as six including at half time.

The Hawks threw the magnets around to try and find the right combinations and things started to turn their way.

The Hawks would hit the front in the final quarter and put the pressure on the Cats, who made turnovers at crucial moments.

The Hawks did enough to win, 36-35.

Hawks playing coach Meg Grbac said it took some time, but they were able to settle and come away with the win.

“I think I’ve been harping on about our depth in our side all season and I think today goes to show,” she said.

“Injecting players on the court sometimes when things aren’t working. I tried a million and one things and it kind of fell into place.”

Grbac said that the Cats came into the game more switched on than they were and used that to gain the early momentum.

The Cats were boosted by the return of Janelle Tate from a knee injury.

Grbac said they would take a lot out of the first half despite not playing well.

“We seemed a little bit hesitant in attack, give all credit where credit is due,” she said.

“I thought Macedon’s defence was amazing today.

“Hetty[Donoghue]inparticulardidareally awesome job as well. Credit, they came ready to go and they jumped us a little bit and we weren’t expecting it.

“It’s something that we take away and learn from and know that we really can’t concede a six goal lead in the first half and have to work so hard in the second half.” Grbac said having not had their full team for much of the season they had learned how to play with different combinations in different situations.

The Hawks tried different things in all three sections of the court to get things going on Saturday.

“For me it’s knowing that I have 11 girls in a squad and any one can step on and play their role, which is really awesome,” Grbac said.

As the Hawks came back the crowd started to get into the game, providing plenty of support for the side.

The Hawks defence was able to lift another late in the game to make sure they sealed the win.

Grbac said having someone like Georgia Bowkett come into the side had given them another defensive option to use when they needed it.

The Hawks now face Riddell in a semi final this weekend, with a spot in the grand final on the line.

Sports shorts

Ballarat NL

The Sunbury Lions sealed third spot on the Ballarat Netball League ladder with an upset win against Darley. Facing the undefeated Devils, the Lions led by three goals at quarter time and then six at half time. The margin grew to eight goals, before the Devils showed some fight in the final quarter. The Lions held on to win, 50-45. Amalani Fauonuku shot 32 goals for the Lions. The Lions now face Lake Wendouree in an elimination final.

Bendigo NL

Gisborne finished the regular Bendigo Netball League season in fine form with a big win against Maryborough on Saturday. The finals bound Bulldogs, who were coming off a loss, got the win, 68-27. Gisborne will face Kangaroo Flat in a qualifying final this weekend. Meanwhile Kyneton finished its season with a 53-44 loss to Strathfieldsaye. The Tigers finished in seventh spot.

Bendigo FL

Gisborne had a day out on Saturday to finish its Bendigo Football League season on a high. Facing Maryborough, the Bulldogs kicked at least 10 goals in three of the four quarters on the way to a 38.27 (255)-2.3 (15) win. Sam Graham kicked seven goals as nine players kicked multiple goals. Kyneton finished its season with a 16.16 (112)-10.10 (70) loss to Strathfieldsaye. The Tigers finished the season in sixth spot, a game outside of finals, with Gisborne in seventh, a game further back.

AFL Draft

Calder Cannons duo Hugo Garcia and Mahmoud Taha have been invited to the AFL state combine. The AFL announced that 55 players had been invited to the combines. The 2023 AFL State Draft Combines will be held in Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth on October 8, 14 and 15 respectively. The state Combines will be held following the national draft combine. Selection to attend the state combines was based on the number of nominations provided by AFL recruiters, with all 18 clubs submitting a list of preferred attendees.

FOR MORE SPORT, VISIT

Web: starweekly.com.au

The Cats face Romsey in the knockout semi final.

Grbac is looking forward to the challenge of facing the Bombers.

“Finals are a completely different ball

game,” she said. “Almost like a completely different season you are going into.

“We’re really looking forward to taking on Riddell. They have been awesome this season, it will be great for us to take on them.”

Sunbury & Macedon Ranges Star Weekly

@starweeklynews

@star_weekly

Emily Miles. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 353247_25

Mackenzie Brown. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 356240_21

Warriors join Vic Netball League

Netball in Melbourne’s west has received a massive boost, with the Western Warriors joining the Victorian Netball League.

The Warriors are one of three clubs to join the premier netball competition in the state along with the Bendigo Strikers and Gippsland Stars.

Netball Victoria said the introduction of the Warriors addresses the fast-growing appetite for the game in Melbourne’s booming north-west fringe.

Warriors head coach Kim Bailey said it’s an exciting time for netball in the region.

“It is exciting for netball in our region,” she said. “It will create opportunities for the girls in the west and beyond.

“It’s closer to home and many girls don’t want to travel to Geelong and Casey to play, it’s very exciting.”

Bailey said a lot of hard work had been done since last year to help set up the club. The St

Albans Caroline Springs Netball Association have played a huge role in getting the club up and going.

The association’s representative side, the Westside Saints, said on their social media that they were thrilled in announcing the side.

“Huge congratulations to the dedicated and hardworking group of individuals who made this dream a reality,” it said.

“Your passion and commitment have brought us here, and we can’t wait to see what the future holds for our team as it embarks on its Victorian Netball League journey.”

The Warriors will be based out of Cobblebank Stadium in Melton, with Bailey saying it was a big decision where they would be located.

She said that with Melton being one of the biggest growth areas in the state, that it made sense for the club to be based there.

Bailey said they would look across the whole west and the outer areas on the way to Ballarat. Brimbank, Sunbury and Macedon Ranges will be key areas as well.

“We’ll look at Melton up to Ballarat and beyond,” she said. “We’ll look to have some good relationships with the footy and netball

Kangaroos bounce into prelim final

By Tara Murray

The Sunbury Kangaroos produced a mature performance beyond their years to seal an Essendon District Football League division 2 preliminary final spot.

After just sneaking into finals, the Kangaroos showed that they belonged as they accounted for the Northern Saints on Sunday.

A win didn’t seem likely for the Kangaroos early as they trailed by 29 points at quarter time having failed to score a goal.

The margin was 15 points at the main break, before the Saints blew it back out early in the third quarter.

The Kangaroos found another level to lead by five points at three quarter time and then took the margin out to 20 points.

The Saints kicked a couple of goals late, but the Kangaroos did enough to win, 13.11 (89)-10.15 (75).

Kangaroos coach Shanon Carroll was thrilled with not only the win but what they have been able to achieve so far this season.

“Things have fallen our way a little bit after the start we had to the year [sitting 0-5],” he said.

“It’s pleasing and I think surprising to the other sides as well.

“When I took the job I was told that I might take some pain early with a young list. We were 0-5 and that was OK as we were playing the kids and getting experience into them.

“We think we can cause some damage, if not next week but beyond as we have a good nucleus together.”

Carroll said it was a weird start for the side which was reflected on the scoreboard.

He said with 13 players playing their first senior final there was bound to be some nerves.

“It was very quiet across the whole game and we were waiting to see what was going to happen, rather than make it happen,” he said.

“From the start of the game until quarter time the side was completely different, we switched a lot of players around to get the drive and run and it seemed to work.”

When the margin blew out again, Carroll

said they needed to just stick with what they were doing and not panic.

“I had to keep reassuring the guys to stick to what we have done. It was a mature performance beyond their years.”

Defender turned forward Matthew Leonard kicked six goals for a second straight week. Carroll said Leonard had been sick all week and nearly didn’t play.

Captain Mitch Streiff kicked three goals in a best on ground performance. Carroll also highlighted the performances of Dean Halliwell, Stephen Treweek and Mitchell Kook.

He had special praise for Shawn Bowden.

“It’s the best game I’ve seen him play,” he said. “For such a young kid that has shown a lot of positives, he stood up under such a high pressure game.”

Carroll said the belief is starting to grow within the group that they belong at this point of the season.

The Kangaroos face Taylors Lakes, which lost the other semi final to Oak Park on Saturday.

leagues in the area.

“We’ll look at the Ballarat, Riddell and Central Highlands leagues. There’s a big void to fill and we want to give them a chance.”

Bailey, who has coached in the VNL before, said she never thought that she would get the opportunity to be a head coach in this competition.

“I dipped my toe back into coaching with the Sunbury Lions this year,” she said.

“It struck my passion to get into coaching in the VNL again. It’s the best domestic competition in the world and the pathway is great and the opportunity to get involved was too good to say no.”

Baileysaidtheywouldlooktonotonlydraw players from the local area, but support staff as well.

Former Melbourne Vixen Kim Borger has been named an assistant coach.

Tara Murray

Sharks are out

Rupertswood was beaten by a red hot Deer Park in the Essendon District Football League division 1 qualifying final on Saturday.

The Sharks had won against the Lions twice during the regular season, including last week, but Saturday’s final was a different story.

While the two teams had finished equal on points, the difference on Saturday was massive.

The Lions quickly led by 20 points at quarter time and the margin was 29 points at the main break. The margin blew out in the second half, with the Lions winning, 17.18 (120)-8.8 (56).

Sharks coach Arron Bray said they just weren’t able to play their game.

“It was a bit of a tough one,” he said. “They were better than we were.

“Nash Holmes and Luke Goater came back in and they were the difference. They didn’t allow us to play our game.

“We were okay the first 10 minutes, but we weren’t allowed to do what we wanted.” Bray said the Lions class shone through in the game with the experience levels between the two sides a big difference. “They had four, five or six VFL [Victorian Football League-listed] players playing against kids.”

The Sharks hopes weren’t helped by injuries before the game and then during it. Luke Cannon was an out before the match, while skipper Brent Swallow again failed to come up.

Brock Landt and Dylan Podolczak both did hamstrings in the game and left the Sharks down on rotations in an already tough game.

Bray said 17-year-old Bailey Verrall was their best along with Ben Borg and Jordie Tentonello, but they had few winners on the day.

The win for the Lions now gives them a shot at West Coburg for a spot in the grand final. The Sharks have a second chance having finished third and will face Hillside on Sunday in a knockout semi final. Bray said they know it will be a tough challenge especially with their injuries. He said Cannon might return, but Swallow was unlikely to return having missed most of the season half of the season.

“We will have to pull a rabbit out of the hat,” Bray said.

Tara Murray

Assistant coach Kim Borger, head coach Kim Bailey SACSNA president Jan Schulz, Warriors secretary Marleene Matthews and Warriors president Gillian Powell.

Dean Halliwell. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 347357_05