Star Weekly - Sunbury Macedon Ranges - 3rd October 2023

Show makes a comeback

After three years of cancellations, Lancefield residents are preparing for the return of the Lancefield Show on Sunday, October 15.

The long awaited return will include the crowd favourite dog high jump, along with the new additions of a table setting competition and an op shop repurpose competition.

Committee member Judy Stammers said everything is falling into place for the show.

“We are hoping for a good day and a huge crowd… We usually think there’s around 3500 to 5000 people in attendance,” she said. “In the home craft section we’ve introduced… an op shop challenge where people need to find something from the op shop, repurpose it and present it for judging.

There will be demonstrations and talks from local farms and organisations, a tractor pull, poultry, sheep, working dog trials, woodchop, horse events and more. Food trucks, live music, rides and show bags will also be available, and this year’s show will see the return of a cake decorating demonstration from about 10.30am to 2.30pm.

Ranges crime on the rise

By Zoe Moffatt

Criminal offences in Macedon Ranges increased by 14.8 per cent in the 12 months to June, new crime data reveals.

Crime Statistics Agency data released Thursday, September 28, reveals there were 2231 total offences recorded, which is up from 1943 incidents 12 months prior.

Breach of family violence order continues to top crime in Macedon Ranges, with 272 offences recorded in the 12 months to June, compared to 239 in the previous year.

The increasing trend follows data released in June that criminal offences increased 14.7

per cent in the 12 months to March.

Despite this trend Gisborne Police Station Commander Senior Sergeant Amanda Cohen saidcrimedecreasedcomparedtopre-COVID levels.

“Despite a slight increase in the most recent reporting period, overall crime in Macedon Rangeshasdecreasedby10percentcompared to pre-COVID levels,” she said.

“ThisalsoincludessuburbssuchasKyneton and Gisborne, which have both decreased compared to pre-pandemic levels.

“We want to reassure the community that police are focused on preventing crime that causes the most harm to the community,

including home burglaries, car thefts.”

Kyneton remained the suburb with the highest offences recorded with an increase of 97 offences, Gisborne came in second with an increase of 40 offences and Woodend increased by 94 offences.

Senior Sergeant Cohen said police will continue to patrol the community to prevent crime and keep the community safe.

“However we are reminding everyone to stay vigilant.

“There are simple steps that people can take, including making it a nightly routine to lock doors, especially internal doors that lead to garages, and ensuring keys aren’t easily

accessible.”

Sunbury’s criminal offences recorded increased by 126 compared to 12 months prior, bringing the total offences recorded to 2298.

Stealing from a motor vehicle overtook breach of family violence order as the top crime offence in Hume, compared to the 12 months to June, with 1928 offences recorded. Victoria police said overall crime in Hume has dropped by 13 per cent since pre-pandemic.

“InSunbury,residentialbreak-ins,carthefts and stealing from cars has dropped by 56 per cent since pre-pandemic,” they said.

Committee member Judy Stammers will be in the homes crafts section at the Lancefield Show.

(Damjan Janevski) 362268_01

Tourism to ‘suffer’ with new tax

By Zoe Moffatt

TourismMacedonRanges(TMR)hascriticised the state government’s decision to implement a short stay accommodation platform tax, saying it will “exacerbate the emerging slump” in regional visitor spending.

This backlash follows the announcement on September 20, that from January 2025, short stay accommodation platforms will be taxed 7.5 per cent of the short-stay accommodation platforms’ revenue.

The revenue raised will go to Homes Victoria to build and maintain social and affordable housing, with 25 per cent to be invested in regional Victoria.

TMR chair Andrew Towner said the tax means visitors will choose day trips instead of overnight stays and the local economy will suffer.

“Macedon Ranges will be hit particularly hard by this tax,” he said. “Due to our close proximity to Melbourne, 79 per cent of the region’s visitors are day-trippers who spend only $81 each [according to the Daylesford Macedon Ranges Destination Management Plan].

“By comparison, overnight visitors spend $398 in local businesses.”

Mr Towner said the lack of traditional hotels and motels in regional Victoria means short-stay accommodation is important.

“The state government’s new short stay accommodation tax will exacerbate the emerging slump in regional visitor spending and stall the tourism recovery,“ he said.

“This is a tax on holidaymakers, not a tax on the short-stay booking platforms. TMR encourages the government to consult with industry to develop solutions that will not damage our regional economies.”

The Lancefield Guesthouse owner Peter Chiller said the decision is very short sighted, and won’t fix the housing problem.

“I’mverydisappointed,Ithinkit’sadisaster,” he said, “The problem they are trying to fix is housing, this isn’t going to do that, it’s just going to hurt tourism.

“OneoftheproblemswehaveintheMacedon Ranges is there’s a lot of single cottages for people to stay in, and it supplements the owner’s income.

“This tax is going to drive people away from those individual properties into larger commercial properties, and gives them an unfair advantage.

“We’ve got so many extra costs coming in at themoment…andnowthis,youjustcan’tkeep passing the cost on.”

When announcing the levy, then premier Daniel Andrews conceded the 7.5 per cent levy would not be universally popular. “Some people will say it’s too high, some people will say it’s not high enough,“ he told reporters.

CFA recruiting for the community’s protection

Country Fire Authority (CFA) is encouraging residents from Sunbury and Macedon Ranges to volunteer amid falling numbers throughout the state.

According to a CFA quarterly update from June 30, there are 28,785 operational volunteers, which is down from 38,335 about 10 years ago.

CFA deputy chief officer Gavin Thompson encouraged residents to look into volunteering, especiallynewresidentswhomighthavemoved to the Macedon Ranges for a tree change.

“Anybody that has spare time and is willing to give back to the community [should volunteer],” he said. “Flexible working hours have opened the door. If people are available during the day, most brigades would welcome them with open arms.

“It’s a great way to meet new people and give back to the community.”

Mr Thompson said technology has helped break down barriers in regards to heavy lifts, and there are roles for most fit active people.

“Gender should be no barrier, and age is no barrier, [but] to be a senior member you must be 16 years old,” he said.

“Technology has changed so much… the equipment isn’t as heavy as it used to be.

“Wedon’texpecteverybodytodoeverything, the more people we have the more we can spread the load.”

Mr Thompson said while volunteer numbers

in the area have remained reasonably steady, volunteers can be sent to other fire areas to help out.

“If we need [help] into those long duration

Vital funding for safer footy

Kyneton Football Netball Club has received a $5000 grant as part of the 2023 WorkSafe Club Safety Fund for safety railings, fire guards and extra flooring.

AFLVictoriaannouncedthe24recipientson September 21, with the funding to go towards facility safety improvements and to assist with occupational health and safety initiatives for players, volunteers, and spectators.

Club manager Nikki Young said the grant will enable the club to complete the project, whichtheyhavebeenwantingtoforquitesome time.

“It is great timing as we can install over the off season,” she said.

“The funding allows us to install safety railing to our coach’s box and fire guards to the fire pits.

“Wewilladdsomeflooringtoourclubrooms ensuring no hazards and non-slip mats in our ice bath areas.”

Ms Young said prioritising safety is important to reduce the risk of slips, trips and falls and shows the clubs commitment to the well-being of our members, staff and players.

“[Safefacilities]alsoreducetheriskofhazard andpeoplewithmobilitychallengeswillbeable to navigate with greater ease and confidence.”

Head of AFL Victoria Ben Kavenagh congratulatedallclubsonsuccessfullyapplying for the grant program.

“Providing safe, welcoming and inclusive

The next round of funding will be available in 2024.

environments where communities come together is of paramount importance,” he said.

“The safety of our players, supporters and environments is always top of mind. This program continues to help local football clubs throughout country Victoria.”

The next round of funding will be available in 2024.

Zoe Moffatt

fires, we send in volunteers from areas. It’s to give the local crews some much needed relief… [and] bolster the numbers.

“[Volunteering with the CFA] is a great

experience that is very rewarding and people will get so much out of it.”

Zoe Moffatt

Are you aged 70 years or

You must still vote in the

older?

2023 Referendum

The referendum will be held on Saturday 14 October 2023. Voting is compulsory even if you are 70 years of age or older.

If you can’t make it to a polling place on voting day, you may be eligible to vote early.

For more information go to www.aec.gov.au or call the AEC on 13 23 26

Appropriate COVID-19 safety measures will be in place at all polling places.

Voting is compulsory for Australian citizens aged 18 years and older. If you don’t vote, you may be prosecuted. Voting more than once is a criminal offence.

2023 Referendum, Saturday 14 October

aec.gov.au | 13 23 26

Sunbury CFA members John Hayward, Paul Brown, Corine Camilleri and Nik Edwards. (Damjan Janevski) 363028_04

Carbon neutral target for Hume

Hume council has taken another step towards reducinggreenhousegasemissionsthroughthe adoption of its climate action plan for 2023-28. Councilvotedtoadopttheplanatitsmeeting on September 25, following research and community feedback dating back to early 2021, with more than 1300 residents participating in surveys.

Speaking at the meeting, councillor Jarrod Bell said the plan was informed by extensive community consultation. “The survey showed high levels of concern about climate change…

and high levels of support for council to take real climate action,” Cr Bell said. “All of [the] feedback received during our exhibition period has been considered, the suggestions have been incorporated in the plan [to make] it a better plan.

“I’m really excited about this plan, it talks about practical actions across our city… [including] our ambition to be carbon neutral by2030.Thisisarealisticgoal,thisissomething we can aim towards.

“We now look forward to engaging with

the Hume community and our partners and key stakeholders in taking action on climate change together.”

According to the climate change community views survey, 80 per cent of residents said they were concerned about climate change, and 79 per cent said they felt it was important council takes action.

As part of the plan, council will try to improve greenhouse gas emissions through managing and treating methane emissions at the Sunbury landfill facility.

All street lights will be changed to LEDs to reduce energy use throughout the community, as well as the electrification of council buildings.

Theplanwillassisthousestobeall-electricto reduce carbon emissions, and council will look into the feasibility of a neighbourhood battery available to low income households.

Council land will also be leased out for electric vehicle recharging facilities, along with a communication campaign about the benefits of electric vehicles.

Addressing mental health

A Macedon Ranges pilot program, Branch Out, is working to provide better mental health support for primary school-aged children through tailored events and resources. The council-led programwasresearchedandco-designed withlocalprimaryschoolsoveranumber of years, and takes an evidence-based, preventative whole-school approach in engaging teachers, parents and students.

The program is being implemented through music and theatre, training and seminars for parents and teachers, youth mental health first aid training and building mental health literacy and referral pathways. Council’s director community Maria Weiss said Branch Outwasagreatexampleofacollaborative initiative to make a difference to the lives of children. “Childhood is an important time for development, providing the foundationforfuturelearning,behaviour and health, so it’s important we have the right supports in place,” she said.

Maggie Beer is best known for her down to earth and delicious cooking. (Supplied)

Popular fair to feature iconic guest

The much loved and popular Garden Lovers’ Fair will return to Bolobek on October 7 and 8, with iconic Australian chef Maggie Beer AO presenting as the guest speaker.

Thefairwillbeheldatamagnificentproperty and garden at the base of Mt Macedon, with more than 50 high-quality and specialist stallholders exhibiting and selling from 10am until 4pm.

Ms Beer, who is best known for her down to earth and delicious cooking, will speak on Sundaymorningaboutherloveofgardens,and how productive gardening directs us toward a healthier lifestyle.

“In my garden nothing is wasted,” she said. “ I have been growing our food for more than 30

years but I have got better at it over time.

“What I grow is the key to what we eat. Everything I grow is organic and everything is utilised – if not by us then in my compost, or in my worm farm.”

Attendees will be able to kick start their gardening, with stall holders selling everything from rare plants and garden tools to food and wine, bulbs, native plants, succulents, trees, clematis, and more.

Local charities will also benefit from funds raised at the event, including the SES, Mt Macedon and Macedon Community House, the local CWA, the Scouts, and the local Horticultural Society.

The location for the fair, Bolobek garden,

is now more than 110 years old, and covers approximately seven hectares, including a picking and vegetable garden and deciduous trees.

The garden is no stranger to the media, with appearances in Gardens Illustrated, Country Style, Women’s Weekly, as well as on TV shows such as Gardening Australia and Postcards.

New work has been completed since last year’s fair, including the renewal of the crab apple walk and a new perennial border on the north side of the garden.

There will be ample onsite parking, and the Bolobek gardens are open to visitors on both days of the fair.

Details: Gardenloversfair.com.au

“We also know parents may need support and guidance if their child is experiencing difficulties. The program recognises this by working collaboratively with parents and schools to help children build their confidence and resilience.”

The program is currently being piloted at Woodend Primary School and Kyneton Primary School until October, with the aim of extending it to all primary schools in the Macedon Ranges. The program has adopted the tagline “from little things, big things can grow” to acknowledge the first steps of supporting children’s mental health can branch out and make a huge difference.

It is funded by Macedon Ranges council, and Youth Affairs Council Victoria with support from the Victorian Government.

Warblers’ big night out

The Woodend Warblers recently gathered for a night of singing and feasting at the Pig and Whistle Hotel in Trentham to mark the end of another joyful term of singing together.

There was lots of camaraderie and cheerfulness while the Warblers tucked into their meals, and the moment choir director Andrew Price asked who wanted to sing, the room came alive.

Group member Vicki Hunt described the impromptu song break.

“I was out of the dining room when the singing started, but when I returned there was a new warmth and energy in the room,” she said.

Fellow member Trish Hartshorn said it was a perfect evening.

“Another wonderful warbler gathering. Fun, friendship and music. Just perfect,” she said.

The Warblers have been getting together for five years and are a welcoming and safe environment for anyone who wants to sing.

Thesenseofwarmthandtogethernessinthe choir happens naturally while choristers are stumbling through a new song and gradually turning it into a showpiece.

There are no auditions and even those who say they can’t sing are supported to find their voice and confidence.

Mr Price finds a way for even the most timid to join in and experience the happiness of singing with others and creating lovely harmonies.

The Warblers meet every Wednesday night, except the school holidays, at the Norma Richardson Hall at 7.30 pm. They will start again on Wednesday, October 4.

Details: Andrew on 0419 604 444.

Briefs

Operation discount

Sunbury police have arrested 13 people following a recent joint operation with local traders and Loss Prevention Officers targeting shopping theft. Operation Discount resulted in three people being remanded on theft charges, two people bailed on theft charges and nine people being issued cautions. Twelve people were also issued with banning notices and three outstanding warrants were executed.

Sustainability

Macedon Ranges Sustainability

Group will be giving advice on energy efficient homes and sustainability at the Gisborne Library on October 14, from 10am to 12noon. The group will discuss getting started with electric vehicles, solar, batteries, energy-efficient building design and more. EcoMaster founders Maurice and Lyn Beinat will also be there to talk about insulation and draught-proofing.

Sunbury garden safety workshop

Hume council will hold a garden safety workshop for residents to learn how to be safe in the garden and what to do in an emergency. The event will be held on October 28, from 10.30am to 12noon at the Sunbury community garden and is free to attend.

Details: https://rb.gy/t9drn

FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT

Web: starweekly.com.au

Sunbury & Macedon Ranges Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Warblers’ bass singers Steve McCann and Max Pietruschka. (Supplied)

More maternal money needed

By Zoe Moffatt

Macedon Ranges council will advocate to the state government for improved Maternal and Child Health (MCH) service funding, following council contributing 13 per cent extra funding over recent years.

In a meeting on September 27, council voted to advocate through the Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) for the extra funding, which should be evenly spread over both levels of government, under a Department of Health and MAV agreement.

The Universal MCH service should be funded on a 50-50 basis between council and the state government, however council has been contributing up to 63 per cent over recent years, according to council officers.

Speaking at the meeting, councillor Jennifer Anderson said the MCH service is vital to the community.

“Itisareallyimportanttime,thereissomuch going on and so much to learn,” Cr Anderson said.

“Through having this service based at council, there’s that knowledge of all the other

Celebrating three years

A dynamic duo from Romsey are hanging up their car keys after three years of delivering meals, which saw them visit almost 2000 homes, and deliver 8072 meals.

Volunteers Anna Quiggley and Rob Good, alongwiththeirdogCharlie,starteddelivering meals in COVID-19 lockdown through a joint Romsey and Lancefield Neighbourhood House initiative.

Romsey Neighbourhood House manager Michelle Balthazar said the initiative helped to connect vulnerable community members, and was only possible through the work of volunteers.

“We’ve had an incredible team of people producing the meals, donating food, and delivering,” Ms Balthazar said.

“Meals on Wheels stopped a few years ago and we could see there was still a need for it. We’d heard lots of stories of people, particularly elderly people, living on two minute noodles and cup soups.

“The food really became a byproduct, it was the connection we made with people… and making sure they were okay at the time.

“[Especially] in COVID-19 lockdowns, it was touching base with vulnerable people to check in on them.”

Ms Balthazar said funding for the delivery service came from grants, which have been exhausted.

“We’re still recognising that there’s a really big need [for the meals]… but unfortunately our funding to provide the delivery service has ceased,” she said.

“People who need meals can still get [them] from the Romsey and Lancefield foodshare… [along with] food parcels… [and] if there’s any exceptional cases we’re still happy to deliver.”

services that are out there that may be able to supplement this service.

“We need to tell the state government that this is the right place for MCH service, within the council.

“It is really important that it is adequately funded so we can make sure we get a fantastic service.”

Cr Anne Moore agreed and said providing breastfeeding support is really important.

“In modern day society most [mums]… are in and out of hospital generally between 24 to 48 hours,” she said.

“Sometimes… milk hasn’t even kicked in and they may not have been able to get their baby to feed properly.

“[It is an] important role that MCH brings to our local government area and by looking after our residents on that front.”

Council is advocating for the government to fund this breastfeeding support, which is currently being delivered one day per week.

Intheirreporttocouncillors,councilofficers stated that retrospective funding and a budget based on the previous year’s service delivery numbers contribute to funding inequity.

Free Kinder: Enrol for 2024

Free Kinder is available for three and four-year-old children in Victoria at participating services.

Free Kinder is available in sessional (standalone) and long day care (childcare) settings, saving families up to $2,500 each year, per child.

At kindergarten, your child will:

• learn language, literacy and numeracy skills through play, art, music and dance

• learn to express themself and make friends in a safe and caring environment

• build skills and confidence before primary school.

Contact your preferred kinder service or local council to learn about how to enrol for 2024. Visit: vic.gov.au/kinder

Zoe Moffatt

Volunteers Anna Quiggley and Rob Good, with their dog Charlie (supplied).

Specsavers

Specsavers Sunbury has been locally owned and operated for over 15 years. The team is proud to make state of the art eye care and amazing designer eyewear affordable for everyone!

Every comprehensive eye test includes free OCT eye scanning, which helps see deep into the eye, providing confidence in diagnosing diseases like glaucoma and macula degeneration. Myopia control, children’s vision, diabetic eye care and contact lens fitting are some of the services the team provides.

For children, it’s important to get their vision checked well before starting school. Adults with no underlying eye conditions or vision problems should have their eyes checked every two years, while those with certain risk factors, such as a family history of eye diseases or health conditions like diabetes, may need more frequent exams.

Specsavers Optometrists can assess your visionandeyehealthandprovidepersonalised advice on how often you should have your eyes tested and what products will suit you best.

Drop in to speak to the friendly team or book online and do not miss the limited offerof one complete pair of multifocals from $149. Book now on (03) 9740 6584

■ Shops 4-6/60-80 Evans Street, Sunbury

DreamZzz

DreamZzz Luxury Bedding has been making sleep-time comfortable for over 18 years, its longevity attributed by owner Sue Glavan to top-quality Australian-made and owned products, and old-school customer service.

Dreamzzz has a large range of mattresses, designed to alleviate other health conditions too, but even when it’s a young couple looking for their first bed together, the team can help them choose one that’s just right for them, one that will stay comfortable for many years to come, and older people, who might have put up with a lumpy or sagging mattress, will leave the store very happy with their purchase.

Camping enthusiasts also find the store the perfect place to get something custom-made to boost their campervan experience.

■ The store, at 8 /75 Vineyard Road, Sunbury, opens 10am-5pm Monday-Friday and 10am-3.30pmSaturday.Inquiries:97407222/ 0418 366126, or E: dreamzzzluxurybedding@ outlook.com f@DreamZzzLuxuryBedding

Kyneton Shoes

New season stock is in store now. October is a great time to buy with all sizes available and warm weather upon us.

With a long, hot summer heading Victoria’s way, a sleek pair of new sandals is just what you need to keep your cool. With a great range of brands including Sala Europe, Cabello, Reva, Le Sansa, Planet Shoes, CC Resorts and many more, Kyneton Shoes is the shoe stylists destination of choice in the Macedon Ranges.

Kyneton Shoes is at 23 High Street, trading Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm and Saturday 9am to 2pm.

Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health

The Home Care Package scheme provides money to eligible individuals to enable them to continue living at home. Sunbury and Cobaw

Community Health has a strong connection to the local community having delivered health, wellbeing and support services locally for nearly 40 years. The team can help you to manage your Home Care Package and organise the services you need to keep living at home, tailoring services that meet your needs. The types of services that can be purchased include help with personal care, housework, light gardening and minor maintenance, assistance with shopping or transport along with healthcare supports such as podiatry and physiotherapy. The team can also find suitable social, activity and exercise groups locally.

■ Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health is at 12-28 Macedon Street, Sunbury.

Fasto Barbering

Fasto Barbering has arrived in Sunbury to transform your grooming experience. Owner operator Fabio Dos Santos is a highly skilled barber of 26 years and a proud husband and father. Fabio will be bringing a blend of old and contemporary hairstyles and traditional old school service to the streets.

Located conveniently at shop 1 and 2, 103 Evans Street, in the arcade behind the IGA car park, Fasto Barbering offers an exceptional haircut that reflects your individual style.

Join the team for a barbershop experience thatgoesbeyondthehaircut.Engageinfriendly conversations, unwind with a complimentary beverage, and enjoy attentive service, while being treated like a king in his chair.

Harwicks

Hardwicks retail outlet is a wholesale butcher and destination for both foodies and meat lovers. Harwicks is a family owned, purpose built, state of the art retail business with a strong history of providing quality lamb, beef, pork and chicken at wholesale prices direct to the public.

Hardwicks of Kyneton is committed to the local community and is proud employ locals and support numerous community events and organisations in and round the Macedon Ranges.

■ For all your meat requirements chat to the Hardwicks team at 180 Mollison Street, Kyneton or phone orders through on 03 5422 3851. Hours: Monday - Friday 8.30-3pm and Saturday 8.30 - 2pm. Sunday 9- 2pm

Shoes designed

Politicians discuss Romsey roads

By Zoe Moffatt

Questions regarding Romsey’s road infrastructure have landed on the steps of Parliament House, following advocacy from community action group Better Futures Romsey (BFR).

Northern Victoria MP Wendy Lovell questioned Roads and Road Safety Minister Melissa Horne about planned improvements to Romsey’s road infrastructure during a recent parliamentary sitting week.

“For quite some time members of [Better Futures Romsey] have attempted to ascertain what plans the government has to improve road infrastructure throughout the Romsey

region,” Ms Lovell said.

“Residents of Romsey currently have no easy accesstoamajorfreewaytoMelbourne,despite research detailed… that in 2021, 28 per cent of the population commuted to the metropolitan area.

“Will the minister detail any plans the governmenthastoimproveroadinfrastructure for the Romsey community into the future?”

Ms Horne said efficient road infrastructure is a priority for the state government, and the Department of Transport and Planning (DTP) and will continue to monitor this section.

“DTP receives many requests related to road infrastructure projects,” she said.

“All are prioritised based on… current and

predicted future traffic volumes, historical safety records of sites and the impact of treatments on the performance of the surrounding road network.”

BFR founding member Hal Pritchard said the question is one they have been asking for a while now, and they don’t feel like they are being listened to.

“I’ve been asking Mary-Anne [Thomas] that question for months with no answer,” Mr Pritchard said. “[Ms Horne’s response] is such a long winded, round about way of saying nothing, it’s pretty appalling.

“Most people I’ve shown [the answer] to have said it could have come from a Utopia episode.

A spokesperson from Ms Thomas’ office said

they have received a number of emails from Mr Pritchard with questions about Romsey, but they relate to the Romsey Structure Plan.

They said the questions have been referred to therelevantofficesintheVictoriangovernment for response.

A state government spokesperson said they have delivered vital road safety improvements across the Macedon Ranges

“Major repair work along four-kilometres of Melbourne-Lancefield Road [is now] complete,” they said.

Ms Lovell also asked Public Transport Minister Ben Carroll to detail any plans the government has to improve the public transport services.

Saving water in dry times

Macedon Ranges council has joined seven other councils to collectively save almost $250,000 through discounted water for public parks, gardens and recreation reserves.

The recreational water discount program offered by Coliban Water has been running for four years and rewards councils that have optimised water use or used alternative fit-for-purpose water supplies.

Council director assets and operations

Shane Walden said the program has enabled council to maintain and operate its open spaces and facilities efficiently and effectively.

“Through the program we have accessedaround34megalitresperannum of recycled water and nine megalitres per annum of potable water,” he said. “[This is] for a range of council managed open spaces and facilities including gardens, recreation reserves, and aquatic centres.

2023 Be Kind to Animals

Lambs leap into kindness this week

Lancefield animal sanctuary Edgar’s Mission is jumping into its 13th annual Be Kind to Animals Week from 1 to 7 October, with orphaned lamb twins ambassadors, Heathrow and Honduras.

Thenot-for-profitiscallingonanimallovers to take the kindness pledge, which can include plant-based meals, committing a random act of kindness, or choosing products that don’t include or test on animals.

Founder Pam Ahern said participants will get free kindness tips and delicious recipes, plus the chance to win a hamper full of ethical and awesome goodies.

“This special week is a time to reflect on the importance of being kind to all animals, and how simple acts of kindness can have an enormous impact,” she said.

“If you’ve ever given a dog a belly rub while their tail wags happily… it is a wonderful reminder that all animals want, need and deserve our kindness, no matter what form they’ve taken.”

Ms Ahern said while Heathrow and Honduras may be small in size, they make up for it with their cheeky personalities.

“Once feeding time is completed, playtime swiftly begins. Heathrow and Honduras could

well be mistaken for small children for the gleeful and wanton abandon with which they undertake the task.”

Edgar’s Mission is currently home to 412 rescued residents, but Ms Ahern points out you don’t need to open a sanctuary to create a kinder world.

“It is through our daily choices – what we choose to buy or not buy, to eat and not eat, that can really make a difference for animals.

“You could also volunteer or donate to your favourite animal charity, leave water out for wildlife, or organise an outdoor clean up”.

Details: bekindtoanimalsweek.org.au

“We are continuously looking at innovative ways to make sure we have sufficient resources to achieve this and program’s like this one through Coliban Water help us immensely in that space.”

Coliban Water managing director Damian Wells said the program offered waterathalfthenormalconsumptionfee for the 2022-23 financial year.

“As we continue to navigate the challenges of climate change, rainfall variability and population growth, we want to work with councils to improve water efficiency and the liveability of our region,” Mr Wells said.

“It’s important we maintain these green spaces, which are vital community assets, providing places for people to relax, exercise and connect with nature. Weneedtoensuregreenspacesarealways available during periods of extreme heat and times of water scarcity.”

Environment funding for the Ranges to bolster groups

Macedon Ranges youth and volunteer groups will receive a share in four million dollars to help volunteers protect and restore landscapes.

Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas

announced the recipients of the 2023 Victorian Landcare Grants on September 19, which will help improve the state’s natural environment.

Newham and District Landcare Group will receive $19,982 for its Cobaw Biolink Enhancement project.

Committee member Helen Scott said the group is thrilled to receive the grant which will helpprogresstheirongoingworkontheCobaw Biolink.

“The funds will make a difference to a new

project… where the group is clearing weed infestations, fencing and replanting with indigenous species to be an attractive area for birdlife and public recreation,” she said.

“The money will be put towards speaker fees for community education events, ongoing involvement with students of local primary and secondary schools.

“[It will also go towards] continuous work on local roadsides to preserve and enhance remnantandendangered nativevegetation and stunning wildflowers.”

Malmsbury District Landcare Group

will receive $20,000 for its Community Engagement and Action from the Wombat

Forest to Malmsbury Reservoir project.

Ms Thomas said the funding is an important way they are supporting volunteers and the community to secure our environment for future generations.

“Our volunteers are invaluable, and these grants will allow them to continue to make a significant difference at a grassroots level,” she said. “Encouraging children to get involved in projects like these can lead to a lifelong appreciation of nature and community.”

The 2023 Victorian Junior Landcare and Biodiversity Grants will distribute more than $470,000 for the delivery of hands-on projects and outdoor educational activities.

Gisborne Montessori School will receive $4996 for their Australian Bush Food and MedicinalPlantsGrowingandLearningSpace.

Junior landcare grants recipients include; Sacred Heart, Macedon Ranges Montessori Preschool,AliceMillerSchool,TyldenPrimary School, Taradale Primary School and Gisborne Primary School.

Landcare support grants worth $500 will alsobeprovidedtogroupsincluding;Woodend Landcare, Greening of Riddell, Riddells Creek Landcare, Bullengarook Landcare Group, Nulla Vale Pyalong West Landcare Group, Upper Deep Creek Landcare Network, and Deep Creek Landcare.

Week ambassadors orphaned lamb twins Heathrow and Honduras with Visitor Experience Officer Daniel Lacey. (Supplied)

Moving to a retirement village – tips for selling up

Everyone’s situation is different, so we’ve intionally kept our tips general. Dive in here with us to get the bird’s- eye view of selling your home and freeing up resources to build a life you’ll love in retirement.

Set the scene – The first steps are all about making sure your home is one your prospective buyers will love to look at. It sounds superficial, but this preparation stage is essential. Buying a home is a big decision. So big in fact, that many prospective buyers

will find themselves having to rely on that gut-feeling to tell them whether your home is right for them. Having everything neat and presentable will help them through that stage, and get your house sold faster.

We recommend considering professional home styling. Also think about having the windows cleaned, and potentially even high-pressure hose down the driveway. You’ll be blown away by the change in response from prospective buyers.

Know your market – Marketing your home effectively is as important as anything else! This step can be difficult for some. Mostly as it will require you to put a dollar value on something that will be very close to your heart. But it is important to think about the buyerjourney,andhowyoumarketyourhome should reflect what the buyer needs to see. Whenlookingtobuyaproperty,prospective buyers will be doing their homework and comparing your home on some very matter-of-fact conditions. Bedrooms,

bathrooms, location, etc. But price is going to underpin all of that – and it’s only once a buyer sees that they can afford your home that they’ll start thinking about the emotional side of things.

Build a brilliant life in retirement at Taylors Hill Village – Would you like an opportunity to see what life is like at the top rated Taylors Hill Village? To register your interest, or to organise a visit go to the Contact Us form at www.centennialliving.com.au

Create a lifestyle only limited by your imagination

At Lifestyle Communities our homeowners are at the core of what we do.

We’re always so proud when we hear how their lives have changed since making the move. From stories of new-found connection to rediscovered passions, it’s always a joy to witness these transformations. It’s a testament to the genuinely life-changing

power of moving to a community of supportive, like-minded people, that over 50 per cent of our sales come from referrals. When you live in a Lifestyle Community, you get to live life on your own terms. With so much on offer, and so many opportunities open to you, your days are spent however you want. If you’re feeling like a change-up,

wanting more connection, or looking to dedicatemoretimetoyourpassions,Lifestyle Communities is here to make it possible. You can throw yourself into a hobby you’ve been neglecting, or take up a new one. You can head off jet-setting knowing your home is safe and secure while you’re away. And whether you love singing or

sport, trivia or tai chi, there’s an activity to get stuck into and a group to join. You’ll be living amongst people who, like you, are determined to get all the joy and excitement they can from life. Create a life that suits you, amongst like-minded people, where the only limit is your own imagination!

Ranges lap it up for mental health

Participants in a Macedon Ranges fitness and fundraising challenge are making a splash to raise awareness for youth mental health and suicide prevention in rural and regional communities.

The fundraiser, LAP it UP, started on October 1 and will run until October 15, with participants completing as many laps as they can to raise money for health promotion charity, Youth Live4Life.

The Gisborne-born event started in 2018 when father and daughter team Sean and Kirsten McKinney hosted a continual 2866 lap relay, equalling the number of Australians that suicided in 2016.

Morethan5500lapswereswumthatdayand the event became a continuous addition to the Macedon Ranges events calendar.

Kyneton resident Sarah Lockhart said she decided to participate as a dedication to her friend’s 15-year-old daughter who took her own life in March 2021.

“Tilly’s mum and aunty are very dear friends of mine so I swam to raise awareness of mental health issues in regional areas, to raise funds and to challenge myself,” she said.

“I also really like the fact it is a local charity focused on helping in regional areas.”

Fellow participant and Lancefield resident, Caleb said he heard about the event at swimming training and is aiming to swim longer than the English Channel.

“I started aiming for 600 laps but smashed that, so I decided to aim for 1000 [last year],” he said.

“This year I am aiming for 1500 which is 3.5 kilometres longer than swimming across the English Channel.”

Calebsaidheislookingforwardtoswimming laps with his mum and making a difference for kids who are struggling.

WoodendresidentBrendanO’Connorisalso

participating for the second year in a row and said he entered the competition last year to get behind Live4Life and to motivate himself to exercise regularly.

“It’sagoodformofexerciseformyailingbody

and good thinking time without distraction,” he said. “It was a great opportunity to have conversations about mental health with work mates, friends and my teenage son who joined me in the pool from time to time.”

AllfundsraisedgotowardsYouthLive4Life’s youth mental health and suicide prevention initiative.

Details: https://www.lapitup.org.au/home.

Lifeline: 13 11 14

Green thumbs get dirty

Students from Sacred Heart College Kyneton have been up to their elbows in soil, weeds and plantstotransformthefrontgardenatKyneton Community House.

Year9studentsfromtheschoolrecentlyhada planting day alongside the onsite horticulturist and volunteers to get natives, pollinators and edibles into the prepared beds.

Kyneton Community House director Claire Rawlinson said they have been working with Sacred Heart for a few years to get the front garden up and running.

“[The students] have diligently come whenever they can and have removed the front garden,” Ms Rawlinson said. “There were a lot of old roses and a lot of it was diseased so we wanted to replace it with something practical, it’s pollinator friendly and edible.

“There’s a lot of veggies for lunches and lots of flowering plants that attract pollinators.

“The plan is that in the long term it will give us produce for the community lunches…

[which also] keeps up the social connection.”

Ms Rawlinson said year 9’s from the school participate in the program and pass the baton onto the next cohort when they move into year 10.

“The young people from Sacred Heart have been working pretty solidly since the start of last year. It’s been really valuable for both us and the students, we really value connection with the local schools.

“They’re done such hard work, and hard labour… [and] they’re going to be the benefactors of the town.”

The Wednesday garden club was also at the community house on the planting day and Ms Rawlinsonsaiditturnedinanintergenerational garden day.

Residents are welcome to have a wander through the garden next time they walk past 34 Mollison Street.

Zoe Moffatt

Sacred Heart College Kyneton students are helping to transform the front garden at Kyneton Community House. (Supplied)

Above: This is Woodend resident Brendan O’Connor’s second year participating in LAP it UP. Top right: Caleb is aiming to swim 1500 laps this year. (Pictures: Kim Selby) Right: Kyneton resident Sarah Lockhart. (Sarah Lockhart)

Romsey’s school holiday fun

Macedon Ranges’ youngest residents have enjoyed school holiday craft activities at the Romsey Library, with students making spring flowers and practising their corn toss.

A range of events took place over the two week school holidays, including at Kyneton, Gisborne and Woodend libraries.

Children aged between 5 and 12 years old dropped into the Romsey Library to make colourfulflowersfrombottletopsandbuttons for a spring window garden.

They were also able to practise their aim with a game of corn toss, which was invented in Germany and originally played with small bags of corn.

In Sunbury, residents enjoyed getting creative and building towers with small wooden planks at the library, along with playing classic arcade games for free at the Sunbury Youth Centre.

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Marley, 4, building a Lego masterpiece.

(Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 362068

Left: Hazel, 2, putting her arts and craft skills to work. Centre: Ruby, 6, concentrating on her corn toss. Left: Sisters Esther, 7, and Emmy, 5, enjoying the school holiday activities at the Romsey Library.

A life full of new possibilities

As a congenitally blind man born and raised in north-west Syria, Mahmoud Alsayad seemed destined for a life of endless hardships, but a mere month into life in Australia and now settled in Wollert, Mahmoud is dreaming big as Gerald Lynch discovered

Born in Aleppo, Mahmoud’s early years were marked by challenges, primarily because of his disability. Despite his yearningforeducation,hestruggledinaschool systemill-equippedtoaccommodatehisneeds.

“My parents didn’t know about the school for vision-impaired children, so I didn’t attend until I was much older,” Mahmoud recalled. His family’s rigid control over his life, stemming from their misunderstanding of his capabilities, left Mahmoud feeling like a prisoner in his own home.

As if navigating life with blindness wasn’t demanding enough, the outbreak of civil war in Syria in 2012 plunged Mahmoud into a world of constant fear and uncertainty.

“It was very scary, and I was always stressed. BecauseIcouldn’tsee,itwashardtoknowwhat was going on, so it was scary,” he admitted.

As the conflict escalated, Mahmoud and his family were forced to flee Aleppo, a city gradually succumbing to destruction and under relentless siege. For several years, they moved from place to place in search of refuge, a journey fraught with danger and uncertainty.

It wasn’t until 2016 that they made a dangerous 12-hour journey into Turkey, crossing rivers and passing through remote farms to reach a hiding place in a small village. They sought refuge as illegal immigrants, living on minimal financial support from the International Organisation for Migration (IOM). Mahmoud’s brothers managed to find work in construction, allowing the family to survive, but this newfound stability brought Mahmoud increased isolation.

“I was by myself. My family would put me in a room and leave me. Unfortunately, my family didn’t want me to do anything for myself; to study or work or go out to places. They saw

my life as just eating, drinking, and sleeping,” Mahmoud said.

Even simple desires like going shopping for clothes were denied to him, and his family’s shame in public because of his disability weighed heavily on him.

Inaboldanddaringmovethathekeptsecret from his family, Mahmoud applied for a visa to Australia with the help of an uncle. It took three long years for his visa application to be approved.

“I was tired of being treated as a non-human. I wanted to get out of that storage room and study and work and build a future,” he

explained. Mahmoud was granted a subclass 202 visa, which is designed for individuals facing substantial discrimination or human rights abuses.

“When the visa came through, I didn’t accept straight away. I was unsure about what to do. I didn’t know what life would be like in Australia,butitcouldnotbeworsethanthelife I was living,” Mahmoud reasoned.

He embarked on research about Australia using his phone, discovering services for the blind and the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).

Mahmoud’s arrival in Australia marked the beginning of a new chapter in his life. He became a client of AMES Australia, which, in turn, referred him to NDIS provider New Ability Services. With no friends or family in Australia, he found solace in supported accommodation.

At the heart of his newfound support system was Habib Alsaidie, his NDIS care worker. Habib played the roles of guide, translator, and, most importantly, friend.

“Habib has done an amazing job for me. He is like a brother. I want to thank everyone who has supported me,” said Mahmoud.

Mahmoud’s happiness and newfound sense of independence in Australia were significant factors in his decision to make this journey.

“I came to Australia because I need to be independent. I want to learn English, study, and work. I want to have a family and build a future,” he said. He also hoped to reunite with his girlfriend Ana, who had been resettled in Germany with her family.

The early days in Australia were made easier with the generous gift of an iPhone from the Australian technology company MOORUP. This iPhone, equipped with vision

accessibilityfeatures,empoweredMahmoudto communicate, text, and call others simply by using his voice. It became his link to the world.

Mahmoud’s story is not the only of its kind. He is part of a growing number of refugees with disabilities finding safety in Australia. In 2023, AMES welcomed about a dozen newly arrived refugees with disabilities, a marked increase from previous years.

Anthony Ferretto, manager of operations andpracticeatAMES,explainedthechallenges these individuals face in their home countries and their anxieties about their settlement experience in Australia.

“In Mahmoud’s case, we approached the Department of Home Affairs for additional funding to support Mahmoud’s accommodation and personal care needs,” Mr Ferretto said.

This strategic planning led to Mahmoud’s placement in supported accommodation with a live-in carer who could communicate with him in his native language.

Today, Mahmoud stands on the threshold of a new life. He embodies resilience, courage, and the unshakeable belief in the human spirit’s capacity to rise above adversity. His journey from the shadows of despair to the light of hope is an inspiring testament to the compassion and support he has received from people and organisations dedicated to making a difference in the lives of refugees like him.

Mahmoud’s story reminds us that, with determination and a helping hand, even the darkest of circumstances can be transformed intoabrighterfuture.Ashepursueshisdreams of education, work, family, and independence, Mahmoudservesasabeaconofhopeforothers facing similar challenges, proving that the human spirit can thrive against all odds.

NDIS care worker Habib Alsaide, AMES operations manager Anthony Ferretto, Mahmoud Alsayad and AMES case manager Adiel Martin. (Pictures: Supplied)

Mahmoud with carer Habib.

‘‘ I was tired of being treated as a non-human.

I wanted to get out of that storage room and study and work and build a future ’’

- Mahmoud Alsayad

MY PLACE

Romsey resident and author Gillian Gorrie tells Zoe Moffatt about her almost four decade connection to the Macedon Ranges and how her mental health journey led to the release of her first book.

Tell us a bit about yourself and your connection to Romsey?

My name is Gillian Gorrie and I am a stress management specialist and now a published author. I have lived in Romsey in the Macedon Ranges for approximately 38 years and I love where I live. I have been involved in the community over the years and truly believe community and environment are an integral part of living a life you can love.

What do you like about where you live?

The Macedon Ranges has so many places to visit and chill out, from breastfeeding my son on Hanging Rock in the early days, to enjoying the peace and tranquillity of walking on many of the popular trails in and around the area.

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

Seriousinputfromlocalgovernmenttosupport the needs of our community. The roads, public transport, street lighting, support for local businesses and more.

Where is your favourite local place to spend time?

I love going to local libraries and cafes to work. If I stay home I get distracted.

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

I grew up on a dairy farm in Gippsland, I am an artist, a teacher, a life coach and a stress management specialist.

You recently wrote a book, tell us about it and your experience?

My journey of life’s challenges – not unlike

many others – led to a life of medication in my early fifties. I was unhappy until I made a decision that there must be more to life than antidepressants and the misery I was feeling. I was diagnosed with depression and the “doctor was about to up my antidepressants, it was then that I made the decision that enough is enough. And so started my journey into the

driver’s seat of my life. For as long as I can remember I have been insatiably curious about human potential and my journey through self-development started with education, training and research. Now I have the tools, the passion and the life experience to support others on their journey.

Throughout COVID I was encouraged to write a book and it’s called Who’s Driving Your Bus?’ It is a personal development program with the tools and the structure to get you back in the driving seat of your life. So if things are notquiterightinyourlife,andyoufeelthatyou need to change something, then this book may be for you.

Gillian Gorrie is a Romsey resident and published author. (Damjan Janevski) 351944_06

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

Summer Fashion Parade

Gisborne Uniting Church will host a Summer Fashion Parade by Kays Classic Fashions on Monday, October 16, at 1.30 pm at the Church in Brantome Street, Gisborne. There will be great brands at low prices to suit ladies sizes 10 – 24, as well as a ‘specials’ rack. Entry is $10 which includes afternoon tea and door prizes.

■ 5428 3852

The Gisborne Singers

The Gisborne Singers are presenting Brahms Liebeslieder Waltzes, a collection of love songs in Ländler style for voices and accompanied by one piano, four hands. It will be held on Sunday, October 29, 2pm, at Church of the Resurrection, Macedon.

■ http://gisborne.harmonysite.com

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 we’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

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

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.

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

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

Craft and conversation

Head down to the Sunbury Library on Mondays at noon for the craft and conversation group. The program is free and open to people aged 15 years and older.

■ https://bit.ly/39BIu2O

Chill Out Sunbury

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

■ https://bit.ly/3lmVgVhv

Sunbury Ladies Badminton Club

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

■ sunburylbc@gmail.com

Come have a chat

Delve into deeper topics and enjoy intriguing conversations by joining the Table 8 Discussion Group. Chats every Tuesday from 10.30 to 11.30am at Macedon Lounge, 40 Victoria Street, Macedon.

■ Carol, 0431 186 575

Family History and Heritage Society

If you’ve got a hankering to learn more about Sunbury and your own family history, come along to meetings at 1.30pm on the third Thursday of each month at the Sunbury Senior Citizens Centre, 8 O’Shanassy Street, Sunbury.

■ https://bit.ly/3jvM6oJ

Rotary club

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

■ sunburyrotary@gmail.com

Ladies probus

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

■ Leonie, 0401 764 182

Sunbury Ladies Probus Club

The Sunbury Ladies Probus Club meets at 9.30am on the fourth Wednesday of each month at the Sunbury Football Social Club rooms.

■ Pat, 0433 789 754, or Sylvia, 0417 170 142

Sunbury Combined Probus Club

The Sunbury Combined Probus Club meets every fourth Thursday of the month at the Sunbury Football Social Club at 10am.

■ Carmel , 0416 477 271

Toastmasters

Sunbury & Macedon Ranges Toastmasters helps its members develop their public speaking, communication and leadership skills. The group meets on the first and third Tuesday of each month, from 7.20-9.30pm, at the Sunbury Senior Citizens Hall.

■ vpm-4185@toastmastersclubs.org

Sunbury Seniors

Sunbury Seniors (55 or older) meet on Mondays and Fridays at 8 O’Shanassy Street, Sunbury, from 10am-3pm. A variety of activities are offered – indoor bowls, cards, snooker, guest speakers, day excursions, subsidised lunches or just a cup of coffee and a chat.

■ 0434 400 754

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

One Voice Sunbury

One Voice Sunbury community choir rehearses each Tuesday from 6.30pm at Goonawarra Neighbourhood House. Fun and welcoming choir, new members welcome, no prior singing experience required. Just join in the fun.

■ sunbury@withonevoice.org.au

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Elvis tribute artist, Sean Spiteri who is helping to raise money for St Catherine of Siena Catholic Church in Caroline Springs. (Damjan Janevski) 362808_01

PUZZLES

No. 153

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

QUICK CROSSWORD

ACROSS

1 Trophy (3)

3 Great playwright (11)

9 Finger-end guard (7)

10 Tedious conversation (7)

11 Follower of Martin Luther (8)

12 2000 Olympic city (6)

14 And not (3)

15 Free (11)

17 Body of water to the East of Italy (8,3)

19 South (Span.) (3)

20 Royal male (6)

21 Original (8)

24 Drank (7)

25 Porch (7)

26 Anarchy (11)

27 Gosh (3)

DOWN

1 Disputed Spanish region (9)

2 Hint (7)

3 Cavalry sword (5)

4 Mediterranean port of Egypt (10)

5 Catch sight of (4)

6 Excessively optimistic person (9)

7 Progress (7)

8 Before time (5)

13 Punctuation mark (10)

15 Showing a tendency to be easily angered (9)

16 Group of three taking part in an activity (9)

18 Colourful arc (7)

19 Voyaging on water (arch.) (7)

20 Small bottle (5)

22 Classifies (5)

23 Combines (4)

DECODER WORDFIT

13 4 79 8

9-LETTER WORD

O

19 words: Good

S A I

O D R

E V

38 words: Excellent

L

O D H B

behold, beholds, bled, blood, blooded, bloods, BLOODSHED, bold, bole, bolo, boodle, dole, doled, doles, doodle, doodles, held, hold, holds, hole, holed, holes, lobe, lobed, lobo, lobs, lode, loos, loose, loosed, lose, oleo, slob, sloe, sold, sole, solo, soloed

No. 153

E D R G L A S S R A D I O O D D E R P E E V E E N D E R

QUICK QUIZ

1 How many rovers are in operation on Mars?

2 What is the main religion in China?

3 Formosan languages are indigenous languages of which island nation?

4 Bifanas (pictured) are a traditional dish of which country?

5 Explorer Vasco da Gama was the first European to sail to which ocean?

6 Collins class refers to what kind of sea vessel?

7 'Typhoon' is used to describe weather events in which hemisphere?

8 How many legs does a prawn have?

9 Which two countries start with an 'A' but do not end with an 'A'?

10 What grape variety is the most grown in the world today?

Today’s Aim: 3 LETTERS ACE AID AIL AMP ASH AYE BAT COG CUE EAR EVE FED GAL ICE INS MEN MET ODE RIM SPA URN WAR 4 LETTERS BEET CEDE HAGS RIMS SAND SNOB STAB STIR SWAB TOED 5 LETTERS ADORE AGILE ALOUD ANGST APING AROMA ASIDE AWARE BLESS COSTS DIALS DRAFT DRAMA DRESS EASES ESSAY ETHIC ETHOS GATES HABIT HARMS HONED MAUVE MEDIA NATTY OCEAN PREYS REVEL REVUE RILES RIPER RISEN ROPED SASSY SAVER SEDAN SEEDS SENDS SHAVE SLEDS SLYLY SNEER SODAS SPARS SPELL TRACE TRAIT VERGE 6 LETTERS BOILER CASTER HAIRED HORROR METERS YEASTS 7 LETTERS ABORTED ABUSERS HANDOUT PRIVATE REWRITE TETHERS 8 LETTERS DESSERTS DETAILED PARENTED TROUNCED 10 LETTERS DISPOSSESS TREATMENTS 12 345678910111213 1415 1617181920212223242526 E Y X V G L R U I Q O J H N Z K A B C F T D M P S W 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 06-10-23 Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com 193745286 549672318 825463179 658129743 382591467 916257834 274386591 761834952 437918625 easy medium hard 813756492 139685247 684513729 497231856 546372918 951827364 265948173 728194635 372469581 758423619 164237985 486395127 942651873 823549761 279814536 631978254 597186342 315762498 1 14 7 20 2 15 8 21 3 16 9 22 4 17 10 23 5 18 11 24 6 19 12 25 13 26 PW ANSWERS: 1. Three 2. Buddhism 3. Taiwan 4. Portugal 5. Indian Ocean 6. Submarine 7. Northern 8. 10 9. Afghanistan and Azerbaijan 10. Cabernet Sauvignon

No. 153

No. 153

No. 153

Placing

Therapists V Adult Services General

Club

$110/ 30mins

identification number. It is now an offence to advertise unless the source number and microchip identification number is included in the advertisement or notice. For further information, call 136 186 or visit animalwelfare.vic.gov.au

SPORTS QUIZ

1. What is the name of Super Netball’s newest team to debut this season?

2. Who was St Kilda’s first and only premiership coach?

3. West Ham defeated which team 3-1 in the Europa League Group A match?

4. Discussions have been raised for which accolade to be renamed after the late AFL legend Ron Berassi?

5. What position does Ellie Carpenter play in the Matildas national team?

6. What has been said to be the most-anticipated player match up in this year’s AFL preliminary final?

Which song plays each time Brisbane’s Charlie Cameron kicks a goal at a home game?

Which current AFL coach is the longest-serving in the league?

Which US ice hockey teams have come Down Under for a special game in the Global Series?

GWS defeated Collingwood by how many points during the 2019 preliminary final?

Two NHL teams appeared in the Global Series games played recently in which Melbourne venue?

12. Who defeated the Wallabies 40-6 in the Group Stage of the 2023 Rugby World Cup?

13. Which team won the 2023 VFL Grand Final?

14. Former Collingwood AFLW star Chloe Molloy joined which team for the 2023 season?

15. Which year did 2023 AFL Grand Final teams Collingwood and Brisbane Lions previously play off in a grand final?

16. Australian Tom Carroll is a former champion of which sport?

17. Before this season, when was the last time the Brisbane Broncos played in an NRL Grand Final?

18. What event did actor Jason Statham compete in for England at the 1990 Commonwealth Games?

19. How many points did Collingwood defeat the GWS Giants by in the 2023 AFL preliminary final?

20. Which NBL team plays its home games at MyState Bank Arena?

21. Brisbane overcame a 30-point deficit to beat Carlton by how many points in the preliminary final?

22. Which two teams qualified to play in the 2023 NRL Grand Final?

23. In what position did Oliver Piastri finish the 2023 Japanese Grand Prix?

24. Which two teams qualified to play off in the 2023 NRLW Grand Final?

25. Which Victoria-based Super Netball team withdrew its licence from competition at the end of the 2023 season?

26. Charles ‘Chas’ Brownlow played for which VFL/AFL club?

27. How many marathons has women’s world record holder Tigist Assefa competed in?

28. Herbert Henry ‘Dally’ Messenger played rugby league for which Australian state/territory?

29. Which team won the 2023 A-League Men’s Grand Final?

30. Which team won the 2023 A-League Women’s Grand Final?

Ellie Carpenter

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Real Estate Agents Everywhere

Impressive SUV at bargain price

By Alistair Kennedy, Marque Motoring

Although Korean carmaker SsangYong has been in the Australian market for the past 20 years it has never been able to get close to the success of its compatriots Hyundai and Kia.

The company has gone through financial difficulties over the years and been taken over at different times by SAIC, Daewoo, Mahindra and, earlier this year, by a new entrant in the automotive scene – KG Mobility.

SsangYong currently has three models in its range, the Musso ute and two SUVs, mid-sized Korando and, this week’s test vehicle the medium-large Rexton.

Rexton languishes near the bottom of the large SUV segment well below the big hitters like Toyota Prado and Kluger, Ford Everest and Isuzu MU-X, which is a pity because, after our week behind the wheel, we came away highly impressed.

Drive-away prices starting from $47,990 makeitafairbitcheaperthanthesecompetitors with a seven-year warranty adding to the value equation.

Like the ute-based Everest and MU-X, the Rexton sits on the same platform as the SsangYong Musso.

Three variants are offered, ELX, Ultimate and Ultimate Sport Pack, formerly sold as the Black Edition.

A third variant, called Adventurer, will be added later this year that will slot between ELX and Ultimate in terms of both specs and price.

All come with seven seats, a 2.2-litre turbo-diesel engine, eight-speed automatic transmission and 3500kg braked towing capacity.

Styling

The constraints of fitting three rows of seats don’t allow for much flexibility in the roofline of large SUVs and Rexton has the same conservative profile as its rivals. Most of the work therefore gets done at the front and rear.

Rexton has an attractive intricate diamond-style grille with the company logo, which few people recognised, at the top/centre.

Both variants come with quad-style LED headlights, LED daytime running lights and LED front fog lights.

At the rear the tail lights and number plate lights are also LED.

The high-mounted stop lights are integrated into the rear spoiler.

Wheels are 18-inch diamond-cut alloys.

Rexton Ultimate adds privacy glass, powered sunroof and tailgate and iIlluminated front door scuff plates.

There are six colour choices: grand white, Atlantic blue, fine silver, marble grey, pearl white and space black.

The limited Black Edition is based on the Ultimate model and comes with a re-designed front with diamond-shaped grille elements, deep gloss black finish and new-style LED fog lights.

Other dark touches include black 20-inch alloy wheels and black painted roof rails.

There are only two colour options: space black or pearl white.

Interior

Like most in its class Rexton has a fairly high stance which can challenge shorter occupants, but on the positive side the high seating position provides ideal viewing.

There are thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) leather-look seats in all three rows.

The front seats are powered, comfortable and supportive as well as being heated and ventilated.

Attractive quilted trim can be found on the seats and around the front console.

Storage space is good with sliding covers for the drink holders and phone charging bay.

The rear seats are finished in the same quilted trim while the second-row seats can tilt backwards to about 50-degrees – subject of course to the approval of any third-row occupants.

Thesecond-rowalsohasafold-downarmrest with two cupholders and small storage area.

Ultimate adds driver’s seat and door mirror memory system, touch-sensing front door locks, heated leather steering wheel, ambient interior mood lighting and third row airconditioning controls.

Access to the third-row seats and space once there provides the usual challenges and are best left for children.

Even then the seating is low and there’s only small, triangular windows which provide a claustrophobic feel.

Boot space with all seats in place is limited.

Engine/transmission

The 2.2-litre turbo-diesel generates maximum power of 148kW at 3800 rpm and healthy peak torque of 441Nm from 1600 revs.

Fuel consumption is listed at 8.7L/100km.

The eight-speed automatic comes with the convenience of steering wheel mounted shift paddles.

It has part-time 4x4 with low and high range and an automatic-locking rear differential.

Safety

Although Rexton hasn’t undergone ANCAP crash testing it does come with a good range of safety equipment in both variants.

They include nine airbags, autonomous emergency braking with forward collision warning, lane change collision warning, safety distance warning, blind spot warning, smart high beam, front vehicle start warning, rear

AT A GLANCE

MODEL RANGE

Rexton ELX: $47,990

Rexton Ultimate: $54,990

Rexton Ultimate Sport Pack: $56,990

SPECIFICATIONS

SsangYong Rexton 2.2-litre turbo-diesel four-door wagon

cross traffic warning, tyre pressure monitoring system, Isofix child seat anchors for the outer centre seats and trailer sway control.

There are front and rear parking sensors and a reversing camera, with a 360-degree camera in the Ultimate.

Infotainment

The larger of the two screens is the 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster which can be customised to suit different situations.

At just eight inches, the infotainment touchscreen is smaller than we’re used to in the latest vehicles.

It’s also relatively basic and doesn’t include built-in satellite navigation in either variant.

There are six physical buttons and a round knob below the screen for the most commonly

used functions and more buttons and another knob for the air conditioning controls. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are both wired and a wireless smartphone charger is added for the Ultimate.

Driving

Despite its modest 148kW power output, 441Nm of torque means the combination of 2.2-litre diesel engine and eight-speed auto transmission pulls the big vehicle along in a smooth, relaxed and surprisingly quiet manner.

It certainly loses nothing in comparison with its better-known and more expensive competitors.

Steering is relatively light and there’s a fair bit of body roll through corners, but that’s par for the course with large SUVs.

During our test we averaged 9.3L/100km, reasonably close to the listed 8.7 L/100km.

Summing up

We haven’t tested a SsangYong Rexton for quite a long time and came away pleasantly surprised.

It’s very well priced but not at the expense of safety equipment, convenience features or technology.

It not only beats competitors on price but comes with a seven-year unlimited warranty together with seven-year roadside assistance. Certainly worth a comparative test drive.

SsangYong Rexton is an affordable alternative in the family SUV market. (Pictures: Supplied)

Note: These are drive-away prices and include all government or dealer delivery charges.

Hard work pays off for winners

Finals fever hit Melbourne’s north-west the last six weeks with sporting finals across a number of different sports including, football, netball, basketball, hockey, lacrosse, soccer, tennis and the list goes on. Here’s some reader snaps of some of the sporting achievements in the finals.

Left: Caroline Springs under-14 premiers. Centre: MRTA association open winter pennant season winners Lancefield. (Supplied) Right: Under-16s grand final between Tarneit and Caroline Springs. (Robert Nichol)

Riddells Creek under-14 DF premiers in Sunbury Basketball Association winter competition.

Riddells Creek under-14 LN runners-up in Sunbury Basketball Association winter competition. (Pictures: Supplied)

Riddells Creek under-12 BW premiers in Sunbury Basketball Association winter competition.

Riddells Creek under-19 MA runners-up in Sunbury Basketball Association winter competition.

Riddells Creek under-16 girls MD div 1 Sunbury Basketball Association winter season premiers.

Riddells Creek under-16 GB premiers in Sunbury Basketball Association winter competition.

Riddells Creek under-12 RG runners-up in Sunbury Basketball Association winter competition.

Riddells Creek under-16 BW runners-up in Sunbury Basketball Association winter competition.

United ready to make leap with fresh talent

Sunbury United is ready to go one step further this season.

United lost last summer’s Gisborne and District Cricket Association McIntyre Cup grand final to Romsey after a strong season.

After several list changes over the off season, playing-coach Upul Fernando said United is in for a big summer.

“Everyone’s really excited, and working really hard after losing in the finals,” he said.

“Everybody prepared really well during the preseason.

“Two new faces are coming in as well and a few players are not playing this year.”

One of the players no longer at the club is Ashan Ranaweera, while Rajitha Mendis will be out of action until post the Christmas break due to family reasons.

Ranaweera was the second highest run scorer for United last season, scoring 480 runs at an average of 36.92.

Mendis took 30 wickets at an average of 17.60 last summer, the second best in the side.

To help fill the voids left in the side, Fabian Fernando has come across from Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association side Northcote. He has also played first class cricket in Sri Lanka.

The bowling all rounder averaged 23.38 with the ball and 27.33 with the bat last season.

Off spinner Hasthi Kumarathunga has also joined the fold at United, from Tarneit. Shenal Ayesh has also joined the club.

Amongstthechangeswastheannouncement of Steven Forgaty as vice captain of the first XI side.

Fogarty averaged 24.46 with the bat last season.

“All are keen and they all know about their roles,” Fernando.

“[Winning the premiership] is what the target is and we set up goals for each individual

player so they know their roles because we’re a very experienced side.

“Now it’s about executing our plans, and training that into performing.”

United will play its first match coming against Macedon, as the Cats makes the jump intotheGDCA’stopdivision,Fernandoandhis side can’t wait for it to begin.

“I’ve never played against Macedon, we heard they’re a good team, that’s the reason they’ve been promoted,” he said.

“It’s all about doing just a little bit of homework against them and we will prepare ourselves and execute our plans when the game is on.

“Our plan is [to take it] one week at a time.”

United will face the Cats on October 7 at Tony Clarke Recreation Reserve in Macedon in a one-dayer.

Wales earns second rising star nod

Essendon ruck Steph Wales has earned hersecondAFLWrisingstarnomination.

The 20-year-old, who was nominated for the award last season in round eight, was recognised again for her performance in Essendon’s round four win against Fremantle.

Wales had 19 disposals and 14 hit outs in Essendon’s 20-point win, as well as taking six marks, having five clearances and laying three tackles.

Since making her debut in round one last season, Wales is yet to miss a game.

The 188cm ruck is averaging 18.7 hit outs and 3.5 clearances per game this season.

Wales was drafted with pick 32 by Essendon from the Casey Demons in the VFLW at the 2022 AFLW Draft.

Bombers coach Natalie Wood praised Wales’ versatility and willingness to improve as a young player.

“Steph is an exciting young talent for us, and it’s been great to see her development continue into the early stages of this year,” she said.

Redbacks on the hunt

By Harper Sercombe

Romseyisonthehuntforitssecondpremiership in as many years in the Gisborne and District Cricket Association McIntyre Cup.

The Redbacks broke their 40 year drought last season, winning the final against Sunbury United.

Not only did the Redbacks win the top flight of the GDCA, but the club also had its seconds and thirds sides playing off in grand finals last summer.

Now, with continuity within all of their sides the Redbacks are ready to go for the 2023-24 season according to captain-coach Ben Way.

“We always have a pretty late start [to pre-season],” he said.

“We’ve only been doing about a month of about four hits, we try not to do too much too early, we want to keep everybody keen the longer the season goes on.

“It’s come around pretty quickly this year and it’s looking a lot better than last year in terms of the weather.

“We’ve pretty much got the exact same group of people together throughout all of our grades.”

Way said in the top side they had kept the same side together which would be handy with a number of other clubs making a number of changes.

“In the top grade we’ve got the exact same team this year,” he said. “And we’re pretty keen, now that we’ve managed to find our way up to the top, to stay there.

“It was a long build for the club to get there and we’re pretty keen to keep fighting it out for more premierships, and not stop at one, hopefully.

“It helps that we’re all locals and have grown up together.”

While back-to-back premierships would be great for the Redbacks, Way said his goals are far simpler than that.

“I just want everyone to enjoy it,” he said.

“We’ve still got some young players that I think have got some growth.

“We want to see all the young kids who have a few years of cricket behind them now, start to dominate and score more runs and take more wickets and then a couple of us older people to just be the cream on top.

“That’s the goal for us and if we can do that, we’ll win plenty of games.

“If all these people who have a lot of talent start putting in performances week in, week out, and being consistent with that.

“We’re just looking for that change in the guard.”

Last season Way was a clear stand out with the bat for the Redbacks, scoring 617 runs at an average of 56.09, and a strike rate of 110.8, including two hundreds and three 50s from his 14 knocks.

Now, ay is hoping the likes of Matthew Milne, Corey Day and Nathan Hoy can have their own standout seasons.

“I’ve been hoping for the last couple of years that he (Milne) breaks out and starts to make 400 to 500 runs a year,” Way said.

“Hopefully they (Day and Hoy) can back it up with some big scores, they got a lot of starts, a lot of 30s and 40s.

“Our bowlers have been together for a few years now, so I couldn’t pick anyone in particular out, they’ve been a group for three or four years now and they just keep getting better.”

Romsey will kick off its 2023-24 McIntyre Cup campaign with a one day clash against the Sunbury Kangaroos on Saturday.

“Getting exposure against some of the league’s best rucks in 2022 set Steph up for a big pre-season, and she is taking big strides as an important player for us.

“Steph is improving her ruck craft and ability to impact around the ground, and we’re seeing that in her ability to impact critical contests in important moments this year.

“This is great reward for what’s been a really promising start to her season, along with our young core group of players.”

Changes to the criteria in this year’s voting system allow Wales to remain eligible for this season’s award, having played only 10 games entering 2023 and fitting the age requirement.

Essendon’s Steph Wales. (Daniel Pockett/ Getty Images via AFL Photos)

Rajitha Mendis. (Jacob Pattison) 325606_01

Harper Sercombe

Matthew Milne. (Jacob Pattison) 325606_05

Diggers Rest building under new coach Quarrell

After losing in last year’s qualifying final, Diggers Rest Bulla is ready to take the next step in the Gisborne and District Cricket Association under new leadership.

Club legend Darren Quarrell has returned to the club after five years out of cricket, due to work reasons, to coach for the club he loves.

Quarrell will return as a player as well, but said he would like to jump between the grades as he tries to get an idea of the players at the club. He is the club’s second highest ever wicket taker with 261 wickets.

“We’re pretty keen to get started now that footy’s over, so now everyone’s back,” he said.

“We’ve been doing some indoor work and just getting some bat and ball rhythm in.

“Trying to get everything in motion, technique and that kind of stuff ready to go for proper training times.”

Quarrell said he has been loving his time back at the club.

“I missed it that much,” he said. “I’m enjoying it more than I did before.

“The first couple of sessions were interesting, trying to get back into bowling, my shoulder, and back, and legs, took me a while to get over it but I’m alright now.”

After finishing fourth in the McIntyre Cup last season, most of what the club needs is at its disposal, however, a few players have joined the fold in the off season.

They did lose a number of key players as well.

“We’ve had a couple of people come in, some pretty good players,” he said.

“Just hopefully they stick around as they’re in the middle of deciding whether they want to come around or not.

“But with the guys that we’ve got, I think we’ve got a good chance to be honest.

“They way they’ve been seeing the ball, because I’ve been swapping the net sessions so everyone gets a chance to play against all different types of bowlers.”

However, with it being Quarrell’s first year as head coach in his career, he is tempering expectations a little bit.

“Just to be in the top four is a bonus, especially in my first year of coaching,” he said.

“Top four would be like winning a final for me.

“The club would love that, we’re a pretty young club now.”

The Burras will start their season against Gisborne on October 7 at home.

Harper Sercombe

Galea signs with Bombers

One of the region’s best forwards is on the move to the Riddell District Football League for next season.

Riddell announced that Dean Galea had signed with the club for the 2024 season.

Galea comes to the club from Rupertswood in the Essendon District Football League where he played this year and was a playing co-coach.

After a slow start to the season, Galea finished with 62 goals for the season and was named at full forward in the EDFL division 1 team of the year.

“Big news! Dean Galea has signed with the Creekers for season 2024,” the Bombers posted on social media.

“Dean has one of the more decorated Victorian football career resumes. Winning back-to-back Jim ‘Frosty’ Miller medals in the VFL in 2012 and 2013 as well as hauls of 101 and 81 in 2016 and 2017 at Keilor.

“Dean is also a member of the EDFL team of the decade.

“Dean comes to the Bombers not only as a great fit on the field but an even better one off the field we can’t wait to see what Dean can do in the red and black next year.”

The signing of Galea is a big positive after the side finished in fifth spot this year, knocked out in the first week of finals as they tried to defend their premiership.

Roar hungry for more

By Harper Sercombe

Sunbury is hoping to avenge its Victorian Turf Cricket Association grand final loss albeit in a higher division this season

The Roar lost its division 3 grand final to Grand United earlier this year, with the Gorillas earned automatic promotion.

But changes with teams in the higher level, means the Roar was also promoted and will now play in division 2 this year.

Roar captain-coach Kevin Barker is ready for the season to begin.

“It’s really exciting times,” he said. “The playing group is in a really good space, everybody’s looking really good.

“The club’s in a pretty good position to challenge I think.

“We thought we were a really competitive side last year, not just by making the grand final, but we thought that we were really, really competitive.

“Just missing out made us really hungry.”

This is Barker’s first year as captain and coach of the club, something that he loves

doing. He has previously held both roles, including at Diggers Rest Bulla.

Barker replaced Stephen Treweek as captain, with Treweek keen to focus on just playing.

Jace Carton was set to coach again, but has stood down from the role and Barker took over during the pre-season.

“I really do love it,” Barker said. “It’s an amazing group to be around and it’s part of the reason why I play, to work with young guys and guys of all ages really, to help them enjoy their cricket and hopefully get better.

“I couldn’t be happier.”

Barker has been able to bring some guys across from Diggers Rest where he has formally played his cricket, as well as recruit from elsewhere.

Rasika Batepola, Indika Massalage and Gayan Welikalage came from Diggers Rest, Ashan Ranaweera was from Sunbury United, while Liam Chant and Chris Pilkington came in off the street.

“We recruited really heavily, so it was just lucky that we were able to pick up a few really

good players and hopefully it’ll help us with that jump up,” Barker said.

“The other thing is, our younger players have put in a massive pre season and have improved in leaps and bounds.

“It’s been a really enjoyable pre season, watching the guys put in the work and hopefully they get rewarded for the work that they’ve put in.”

A couple of the younger guys Barker speaks of includes Jack McGann, Cam Hildebrand and Sandil Wijesooriya, that will all help the Roar and Barker achieve their goals for the season and beyond.

“I think everybody has a long term goal of trying to make finals and win a flag,” Barker said.

“But at the end of day if we can play good, fun, aggressive cricket, everybody enjoys their time out on the park, then that’s a win.

“Everybody wants to win obviously, but I’m hoping to create an environment that everybody wants to be around.”

The Roar starts its season on Saturday against Keilor Park.

The Bombers have also announced a number of re-signings.

NathanCroft,JordanReardon,Brodie Miller, Dylan and Lachlan Tarczon, Oscar Besanko, Ben Sonogan, Bryce and Callum Williamson, Haydn Ross, Matt Panuccio, Tommy Alkemade and Josh Grabham.

Dean Galea. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 333186_59

Darren Quarrell. (Shawn Smits) 349713_01

Kevin Barker batting. (Jacob Pattison) 314678_07

Netball’s night of nights produces three winners

It was a three way split for the Riddell District Netball League’s Ryan Medal.

The medal, which is for the best player voted by the umpires in the A grade competition, was split between Riddell’s Ellen Close, Woodend-Hesket’s Tayissa Coppinger and Wallan’s Gemma Grimmond making the women joint Ryan Medalists.

Malia Seumantuafa was runners up for the award.

This is back to back medals for Coppinger to go with the premiership she won with the Hawks just a couple of weeks ago.

For Close, she is following in her sister’s footsteps who has also won the award.

Other awards given out as a part of the RDNL awards night on Thursday, September 28 was the inaugural best defender award, judged and voted on by opposition coaches.

Meg Grbac was named as A grade’s best defender.

The A grade player of the year and coach of the year award was also given to Grbac from the Hawks.

Shelby Holter was A grade’s leading goal scorer with 485 goals for the season.

The team of the year was also announced on the night.

From Riddell, Holter was named at goal shooter, Brown in center, and Starzer on the bench.

From the Hawks, Rogers was named in wing defence, Coppinger in goal defence and Grbac as the goal keeper and coach of the side. Clarke from Macedon was the only Cat in the side she was named as a substitute.

Lind was the sole Romsey redback in the side, being listed as wing attack.

There was another tie in the B grade best and fairest with Rebecca Morabito, Christine Harris and Brooke Baker all taking out the award.

Georgia Fearn was runners up.

Isabella Klaaysen was named as B grade’s best defender.

Tarnee Hammond was B grade’s leading goal scorer with 401 goals for the season.

It was a four way tie in the C grade best and fairest with Lisa Romanski, Sara Tangaroa, Ashleigh Lobb and Allira Egan all taking home a trophy.

Runners up for the award were Janayah Chamra, Natasha Lacey, Chelsea Lapsley and Courtney Chettle.

Lisa Romanski was C grade’s leading goal scorer with 302 goals for the season.

Allira Egan was named as C grade’s best defender.

The under 19s best and fairest was also a tie with Hayley Brown and Jess Martin taking out the award.

Dakota Lister was runners up for the award.

Alistair Rae stepping up

Woodend-Hesket has appointed its captain to coach the club for 2024.

Alistair Rae will coach the Riddell District Football League club following Josh Pound’s departure from the role.

Rae was named captain in his second year at the Hawks after moving from Essendon District Football League club Strathmore, and has been assistant coach for the last two seasons under Pound. Rae will be stepping down from his role of captain but will maintain his spot in the starting 22.

The Hawks finished runners up in the season just gone, reaching the grand final for the first time in 15 years.

“It’s very exciting, I’ve been at Woodend for quite a time now, and with Poundy stepping away, I felt like it was the right time to step up,” Rae said.

“There’s still a lot of belief at the club as long as we can maintain most of that key younger group.

“That’s our priority now to keep those guys and then just add a few little pieces that will complement the side, that’s our initial plan.

Toman is best in league

Woodend-Hesket’s Daniel Toman’s blistering season has been recognised winning the Bowen Medal for the Riddell District Football League’s best and fairest.

The midfielder had a fantastic season also being named on the ball in the RDFL team of the year.

“It’s good to get a bit of recognition for a pretty consistent year, so I’m happy,” Toman said.

“You never know really how the umpires are going to vote, but I thought I had a pretty consistent year so I went in with a bit of a chance. I thought I was pretty consistent in most games.”

Toman only returned back to his juniors club,theHawks,forthisseasonafterspending time in the Ballarat Football League.

“It’s been unreal, I’ve got a lot of mates still at the club and my brother Ben was playing there this year,” he said.

“It was just a really enjoyable year, probably

the most enjoyable year I’ve ever had.”

The 2023 season was the Hawks return to finals football for the first time in over a decade, and return to a grand final for the first time in 15 years. Yet fell agonisingly short of a premiership as they were defeated by Diggers Rest in the last match of the season.

“All credit to Diggers, they played really well and were much better than us on the day,” Toman said. “They’ve been building for a couple of years even though the results haven’t been there, they’ve got a good list together at the moment.

“There’s a lot of depth at the club at the moment which is shown by a couple of the blokes who missed out on playing in the grand final.

“One bloke played pretty much the whole year and then got dropped and there’s another young fella who’s going to be something special, and neither of them made it to the grand final team so it shows we have a lot of depth there and big things are on the

horizon, hopefully.”

While the best in league medal is something Toman will be sure to cherish, he said he would “definitely” be trading it in to have a premiership medallion around his neck.

The Hawks just recently announced that their captain, Alistar Rae, will coach the club for the 2024 season.

Rae was named captain in his second year at the Hawks after moving from Essendon District Football League club Strathmore, and has been assistant coach for the last two seasons under Pound. Rae will be stepping down from his role of captain but will maintain his spot in the starting 22.

“He’s been around the club for six years now and he really buys into the club so he’ll be good, I think he’s going to have some pretty handy assistants too so it’ll be good,” Toman said.

Teammates of Toman Stapleton took out the seniors best defender in the league while Rae and Saxon Gardner were awarded runners up best defenders.

“We think we’re going to maintain most, it’s just a couple of the older guys who are moving on.”

Some of the older players who are leaving the club include, obviously Josh Pound and the Eagles best on ground on the grand final Tayte Pears is most likely to not return to the club. The exits leave spots to help Rae recruit players to help him play his style of play.

“There’s a couple of other guys we’re just not sure about, but we’re just leaving them be,” Rae said.

“What I want to compliment the side, it’s pretty much just speedy players, that is what we’re missing. “We’ve already had a few guys in the pipeline for a while now, but just quick midfield forwards.”

Harper Sercombe

Tayissa Coppinger. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 360896_07_GD

Daniel Toman (Ljubica Vrankovic) 360899_53_7

Harper Sercombe

Alistair Rae (Ljubica Vrankovic) 360899_37_20