Star Weekly - Sunbury Macedon Ranges - 10th October 2023

Building a new future

By Zoe Moffatt

Huddled in a circle in a Riddells Creek backyard, 14 men wrap their hands around hot cups of tea and coffee.

The weather is almost getting too warm for the hot drinks, but it’s a ritual synonymous to the members of the Riddell’s Creek Men’s Shed and the way meetings have changed over the last two years.

Secretary Don Clark said the group has had tofocusoncatchupsliketheseduetonotusing the shed at the Riddells Creek Neighbourhood House (RCNH).

“[The impact] is nothing short of catastrophic,” Mr Clark said.

“[The men’s shed] is for our health in general. Until we actually got the men’s shed going I wasn’t totally aware of how important it was for each of us to be talking about health issues.”

Mr Clark said the shed, which the group had used since 2013, is also important to give men a sense of belonging, and a place to come together and build.

“Just the fact that we’re old doesn’t mean we’re gone. It’s great to be able to contribute something to our community.

“[However], the [group] numbers have dropped off mainly because we have nothing to offer members, [or] where to go other than different people’s homes.

“People who want to make stuff have nowhere to make it, unless they do it at their home with their own tools.”

Due to an ongoing dispute with RCNH, the shed at the rear of the Main Street property has not been used since April 2021.

RCNH acting president Nicole Rowan said RCNH auspiced the men’s shed to cover the financial, insurance, legal, governance and other obligations but had to end that collaboration due to financial and safety issues with the shed.

“The safety issues were identified in an independent safety assessment arranged by the council,” she said.

“We recognise that men’s shed programs contributesignificantlytothegoodhealthand wellbeing of men.

“We want to ensure that there are specific programs for men’s shed activities and at the same time increase the number of groups, and the gender of groups, that use the shed.”

Macedon Ranges council director community Maria Weiss said since the auspice agreement termination, council officers had supported both organisations to come to an agreement to enable the reopening of the men’s shed.

“Council.. has [coordinated and funded] an independent occupational health and safety report for the shed, assisting [RCNH] to draft a special hire agreement, and engagement of an independent mediator,” she said.

“Council has continued to support and encourage the two parties to have open conversations with each other in order to seek resolution. Unfortunately… [they] have been

Diggers Rest Early Learning Centre

unable to reach an agreement.”

Mr Clark said members had until October 27 to collect their tools from the shed, which they will store in a 20 foot container until they can relocate.

“We’re trying to organise a couple of working bees with some more able bodied people in the community to help us with some of the heavier items,” he said.

Ms Rowan said once the men’s shed equipment has been cleared, the RCNH will clean up and do any building repairs and compliance work needed, so new programs can be implemented.

Themen’sshedmembers,alongwiththerest

of the community, has been invited by RCNH to work on a shared community shed space model. Ms Rowan said a working community group had commenced this process.

“As part of this process, we are holding a smoked meat barbecue cooking session to bring the community together around the shared community shed concept,” she said. This event will be held on Friday, October 27, from 5.30pm, and is also on the same evening as the community music night held in the RCNH gardens. All are welcome to attend and RSVPs are required.

RSVP to: manager@riddellscreeknh.com. au

Riddells Creek Men’s Shed president Chris Butterley (front), with members Christian Haack, Dieter Jankovic, Don Clark, James Coy and Peter Wearne. (Damjan Janevski) 361549_03 Inset: Riddells Creek Neighbourhood House community development manager Lisa Linton. (Damjan Janevski) 362056_03

More occasional care needed

By Zoe Moffatt

Sunbury residents are calling for more occasional care options, following the closure of council’s Sunbury Aquatic and Leisure Centre (SALC) occasional childcare service in 2020.

Unlike scheduled daycare centres, occasional and casual care options are flexible services that provide the opportunity for children under school age to be looked after for short periods of time.

Sunbury resident and mother Sarah Davies said this service is important for when parents need to attend an appointment or

help their child in the water for swimming lessons.

“In talking to a lot of mums and what a lot of children have missed out on is swimming lessons,” she said.

“If you have to jump in the pool with your two year old, you can’t have your four year old sitting by themselves. So that means kids could be missing out on those lessons.

“Some of these children have missed out on things with COVID-19 and now they’re missing out again with the lack of occasional care.”

Ms Davies said occasional care also gives parents the option to have a few hours to

A buzzing success story

A new not-for-profit retail social enterprise has opened in Sunbury to provide shopping and employment opportunities for people with disabilities.

We DO Good Things retail store is run by disability and services support provider Distinctive Options (DO) Pathways and has been a buzzing success so far.

The store stocks Banksia Fine Food products and honey from DO Honey, an Australian Diverse Ability Beekeeping Enterprise also from DO.

DO business development manager Paul Pearman said they decided to open the store to provide more opportunities for people with disabilities.

“We’ve had plenty of people come through the doors… [and] some great community feedback,” Mr Pearman said. “[The store] gives people with all abilities an opportunity to work

YOUR SAY

Please vote YES on October 14

I write to you about something that is close to my heart.

I am going to vote YES to the October 14 Referendum on the Voice to Parliament because Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people should be recognised in the Constitution as the First Nations of Australia.

I also think that Aboriginal people should be able to form regional bodies that take their concerns and issues to Parliament in Canberra.

If the overwhelming majority of people write Yes, then we can make changeslike a Treaty, truth telling nation-wide, changing Australia Day, justice for youth in prisons, education Aboriginal way, and health and housing for remote communities.

If the majority of the people vote NO, it will embolden the racists and set back First Nations justice for decades.

In 2015 there was bipartisan Coalition/ ALP support to consider a pathway to constitutional recognition.

In the last two years the Australian media has been normalising conspiracy theories put up by the NO campaign, parroting misinformation and exploiting Indigenous lives and communities for cynical political reasons – to claw back the massive defeat of the Liberal/National Coalition that saw its primary vote plummet to a historical low. The Coalition wants to differentiate itself from the Labor Party which governs the national and every state parliament except Tasmania. Cynical politics on the backs of Aboriginal people!

How could we recover from a NO vote?

NO means we won’t hear you, we don’t

in a supported retail environment. It’s all about providing opportunities for employment for people with disabilities.”

Thestoresellsarangeofawardwinningjams and chutneys, along with honey and corporate hampers.

Mr Pearman said they started DO Honey in July last year and operate more than 30 hives in the Sunbury and Wildwood area.

“We employ 10 people with disabilities for DO Honey and are looking forward to our second harvest this year,” he said. “We thought bees were cool and it would be a different concept for a business.”

Mr Pearman said they hope to stock other not-for-profit enterprises in the We DO Good Things retail store in the future.

Details: 50 McDougall Road, Sunbury, 9740 7100.

Zoe Moffatt

themselfandshewouldhavelikedtoseemore community consultation on the decision.

“[It’s good] if they have an appointment, or they want to exercise [which] helps with mental and physical health.

“[Itcanalsobehardif]you’reasingleparent and you need to attend an appointment that’s not appropriate [for your children] to come to.

“It’s a real shame that they’ve gone from providing for families to hiring this out to a private business. I [didn’t realise] that the councilwasrunningaforprofitorganisation.”

A Hume council spokesperson said the decision was made after careful consideration

of several factors, including the impact of licencing and regulatory requirements and a significant decline in demand.

“The childcare was declining prior to COVID-19. In October 2019, occupancy was 44 per cent and in February 2020 [it] had declined to 26 per cent,” they said.

“Long day care [and] occasional child care costs council close to $800,000 per annum. Whilst we receive state and commonwealth rebates, it is still a significant investment.

“Council must regularly prioritise funding of services and infrastructure based on the greatest needs and gaps in providing key services to the Hume community.”

want to listen to your advice, experience and knowledge on how to better your lives. NO we reject your long struggle for constitutional recognition and your open hearted invitation to “walk with us…for a better future”.

How can an Aboriginal kid front up to school on Monday October 16 feeling rejected, with proof that they don’t belong to Australian society?

First, we vote on the principle – then once there is symbolic recognition and agreement of the Voice to go forward, there will be a consultation process with First Nations mobs to make the representative body. Yes, there will be downstream uncertainties but at least Aboriginal people will know they have the love and support of a majority of Australians. Please vote YES.

Lyn Hovey, Riddells Creek

HAVE YOUR SAY

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Tammy Giles and Ashley Ferguson from We DO Good Things retail store selling their honey from DO Honey, an Australian Diverse Ability Beekeeping Enterprise. (Damjan Janevski) 364450_03

Petition urges crossing rethink

By Liam McNally

Melton council has received a petition with more than 300 signatures urging it undertake a third party review of the proposed new road link which forms part of the level crossing removal on the Old Calder Highway.

A number of Diggers Rest residents have raised concerns about the state government’s plan for a road bridge over train line to replace thecrossing,thepathforwhichwasannounced at the beginning of September.

Residents have previously told Star Weekly mostarecontenttoseethelevelcrossinggo,but thereareanumberofconcernstheyfeelthestate government hadn’t listened to concerning the current proposed path including compulsory acquisition of private property, increased noise

and traffic flow in a growing area.

Watts ward councillor Justine Farrugia tabled the petition on behalf of Diggers Rest residents, which asks council to review the proposed path and that council form a position on the adequacy of the conceptual designs.

The petition suggested council’s position should be informed by a Melton council 2014 Local Area Traffic Management (LATM) study that recommended a different bypass connecting the Old Calder Highway to Plumpton Road.

Cr Farrugia moved a further motion for council to write to relevant MPs requesting detailed information on the options considered for the Diggers Rest Level Crossing Removal, including impacts on the community and what consideration was given to the LATM.

“Idohopethattherearesomeconsiderations for the residents of Diggers Rest, many have expressed their dissatisfaction with this outcome,” she said.

Councillor Sophie Ramsey supported the call.

“This is a very emotive subject for a number of residents and they’re feeling a little bit unheard,” she said.

“Jacinta Allan needs to hear this and hear it loudly, so does Mr Josh Bull. I know that crossing is a dangerous one, but we really need to look at all the alternatives and take everything into consideration.

“I know the timelines have been shortened, but at the end of the day, this community has been crying out now. We’ve had a 300-plus joint letter signed, we’ve had a public meeting

Help others with transport needs

Disability services and support organisation, Community Accessability, is seeking volunteer drivers in Sunbury to help drive change in supporting the transport needs of the community.

Community Accessability runs a volunteer-supported transport service to help older people, people living with disabilities, and those who have difficulties accessing other forms of transport.

Anyone with a driver’s licence can volunteer, and the opportunity is open to females, males, youths, and adults.

Volunteer coordinator Jan Hay said all volunteers receive induction, training, a uniform, and ongoing support.

“Volunteers play a vital role at Community

Accessability, and we are always in need of caring, compassionate volunteers to help carry out our mission,” she said.

“This service depends on volunteers who want to be a part of a very social volunteering opportunity and those who enjoy driving.

“We are looking for volunteers who can offer any amount of time, we have opportunities that range from as often as daily to as little as monthly.”

Volunteer driver Elaine Cartright said it is easytovolunteer,andMsHayisalwaysthereto help as the volunteer coordinator.

“I get [a lot of] pleasure, and I am always filledwithgratitudebecauseIgettohelppeople and give back to my community,” she said. “I also like that it’s easy to volunteer.”

Ms Hay said the transport service would not be possible without the incredible dedication of volunteers like Ms Cartright.

“We would not have the wonderful opportunities and programs for the greater community if it were not for them. Our volunteers are what makes it all work.”

Details: 1300 704 530 or volunteer@ communityaccessability.org.au

of over 80 residents and their concerns need to be listened to.”

Sunbury MP Josh Bull pointed to a government website that includes a rationale for why the current proposed path was chosen, which doesn’t mention the LATM specifically but does say a bridge “connecting to the west of Diggers Rest“ wasn’t desirable as it would increase travel times, divide the town and require more acquisition.

“We have liaised with the community extensively on this matter, and commend their passion and advocacy ensuring that due diligence has been undertaken on the decisions being made for the Diggers Rest Level Crossing Removals,“ he said.

Melton council said council will consider the petition and provide a response at a later date.

We’re building big near you and there will be transport disruptions

As part of Victoria’s Big Build, we’re upgrading roads in Melbourne’s north west to reduce congestion and improve travel times to make your journey safer and easier.

Road disruptions: Closed road Lancefield Road, Sunbury 7pm to 5am each night, 15 to 16 October At Sunbury Road 7pm to 5am each night, 22 to 26 October

Volunteer driver Darren Ayres. (Supplied)

Gisborne facing growing pains

By Zoe Moffatt

Gisborne residents are frustrated about the planned growth Macedon Ranges council set out in the Draft Gisborne Futures Structure Plan, saying the town’s infrastructure can’t keep up.

OnAugust23,councilreleasedthedraftplan for community consultation, which remains open until Monday, November 13.

The plan seeks to provide a vision for Gisborne and New Gisborne to grow within a protected settlement boundary, and identifies future land uses for retail, employment, housing, open space and community services.

Resident Georgie Shumack said the biggest concernamongthecommunityrightnowisthe speed of growth of new estates and residential houses without the infrastructure keeping up.

“Lots of us love Gisborne and understand there will be urban spread, however the speed at which it is happening without the right infrastructure… is quite frightening,” she said.

“[This] includes new high schools [and] supermarkets in New Gisborne… and it will all just end up in worse traffic [and] a lack of education which will be awful for our children.

“It’sgreattheyareplanningformorehousing but how are they going to fit more people in. They are just turning it into another Sunbury

Carols prep underway

As the final quarter of 2023 approaches, the Lions Club of Diggers Rest is beginning to organise its yearly Christmas carols event, and is calling on the community for assistance.

The event will be held at the Diggers Rest Primary School (DSPS) on Thursday, December 7. From 5pm the event will be packed with a range of activities including face painting,balloonart,ananimalfarm,amarket and refreshment stalls, music performances and a visit from Mr and Mrs Claus.

Lions Club of Diggers Rest president Katherine Skinner said the group has about 10 memberstoorganisetheevent,andisexpecting between 2000 and 3000 guests on the night.

“We would like to invite anyone from the community who has time and/or skills to help us organise this year’s event,” Ms Skinner said.

“They may wish to support us with traffic management planning, permit applications,

risk management plans, organising market stalls, decorating, designing advertising flyers orhelpingtosetupand/orpackuponthenight.

“We also need people to act as roving advisors on the night, directing people to facilities, medical support, etc.”

Ms Skinner said the event will include carols performed by DSPS students and professional singer Bec Jamieson, who will emcee the event, but they’re happy to hear from other performers.

“This is a community celebration, we invite all performers to sing and/or dance songs of celebration,”shesaid. “MostchooseChristmas [performances, but] there are performances that include Welcome to Country and other multi-cultural acts… we always invite all educational, community and user groups from Diggers Rest to produce acts too.”

To lend a hand, email lcdrcarols@gmail.com

which isn’t what people moved here for.”

Ms Shumack said the planned 700-lot development in 89 Ross Watt Road, Gisborne, was “ridiculous” and is just “trying to squeeze people in”.

“It’s ridiculous that there will soon be another estate. [It’s] unrealistic and not inline with what the residents want.

“People move out here for bigger blocks and thespace.Thetownwilllosethefeelingthatthe residents moved there for.

“It’sgreattheyareplanningformorehousing but how are they going to fit more people in?”

Councillors unanimously voted to knock back the Gisborne development on March 9,

but it was subsequently approved and endorsed by VCAT on July 18.

Council’sdirectorplanningandenvironment Rebecca Stockfeld said council had a fantastic community response when it last consulted on the draft plans in 2020.

“This led to a list of actions that we have been working through,” she said.

“We believe it now strikes the right balance between providing more diverse and affordable housing while protecting the surrounding landscapes from outward sprawl.” Residents can attend a drop-in session, and provide online and written feedback.

Details: https://shorturl.at/mzDS1

LED BY A QUALIFIED TEACHER

The Kinder Tick recognises kinder programs that are led by a qualified teacher.

PLAY-BASED LEARNING PROGRAM

It highlights kindergartens and long day care centres that offer play-based programs to help children learn and grow, before they start school.

FUNDED AND APPROVED BY THE VICTORIAN GOVERNMENT

It also identifies services that are approved for Victorian Government funding.

The Victorian Government is making it easier for families to find a three and four-year old kinder learning program they can count on.

Bob Cassar and Katherine Skinner of Diggers Rest Lions Club are asking the community for a helping hand with this year’s Christmas carols. (Damjan Janevski) 362266_01

Shutting the door on gambling

By Zoe Moffatt

Mandatory closure periods for gaming machine areas will kick start the state government’s latest gambling reforms, following Hume council holding its first gambling harm symposium.

On October 3, Casino, Gaming and Liquor Regulation Minister Melissa Horne announced a bill to enforce mandatory closure periods for all gaming machine areas in venues, except Crown Casino, between 4am and 10am.

In August alone, $12 million was lost to

Electronic Gaming Machines in Hume.

Mayor Joseph Haweil said council has been in regular contact with the state government advocating for immediate state mandated regulation of the gambling industry.

“[This] helped bring about July’s sweeping reforms, but our fight began long before that and we have a long way to go,” Cr Haweil said.

“What concerns me greatly as mayor is knowing that Hume’s diversity and socio-economic status make our residents vulnerable to methods used to lure people into gambling.

“We will continue to push for all proposed

PM kicks into Sunbury

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese traded the MCG, where he witnessed Collingwood win the AFL premiership, for a Sunbury early learning centre on Monday October 2, to kick the footy with some of Sunbury’s youngest residents.

Gumboots Early Learning Jacksons Hill attracted a swarm of media on Monday morning, with Hawke MP Sam Rae accompanying Mr Albanese on his visit.

Centre manager Shelly Dowsett said it was a special day for everyone and Mr Albanese was great with the children.

“It was pretty special having the prime minister come along… the staff were very excited and he was amazing with the children,” she said.

“He interacted with the kinder program [and] was down at their level. He did some arts and crafts, and kicked the footy with them.

“One of the kids called out through the fence

when he was in his car but he got out and gave [the kid] a high five.”

Ms Dowsett said she and her team didn’t know that Mr Albanese would visit until a couple of days prior, and they sat the kids down to explain who he was and why he was an important visitor.

“We did a group time in the morning explaining who he was and they certainly realised that he was important when all the media were there,” she said.

“[Mr Albanese and Mr Rae] gave us some nice feedback on our service as well which was lovely.”

reforms to be implemented including mandatory carded play, pre-commitment, a self- exclusion program, and load-up limits.”

At its symposium in Craigieburn on October 2, council hosted experts and advocates to send a strong message to policy makers on Hume’s desire for change.

Speakers included Dr Charles Livingstone discussing gambling harm, journalist Stephanie Convery on sports gambling impacts and humanitarian Tim Costello. Council said the latest reform demonstrates the significant changes occurring in the gambling space at both a local and state level

and highlights just how far there is to go.

Speaking about the bill Ms Horne said the mandatory closure period is important to prevent and reduce gambling-related harm.

“We’veseenpredatorybehaviourfromsome venues, allowing people to keep gambling for hours, at any hour,” she said.

“Closing gaming areas between 4am and 10am will give people an important break to reassess and walk away.”

Hume council said it will continue to advocate to the state government for strong reforms that help minimise gambling harm across the municipality.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Hawke MP Sam Rae with Gumboots Early Learning staff. (Zoe Moffatt)

Zoe Moffatt

Superheroes of dyslexia

By Zoe Moffatt

Significant monuments, buildings and landmarksacrossVictoriaandthecountrywill continue to be lit red throughout October as part of Dyslexia awareness month.

Registered charity Code REaD Dyslexia Network started the national Light it Red campaign in 2015 to take back the power of the colour to raise awareness.

Sunbury photographer Marnie Hibbert and her daughter, Kyla, wrote a book called I’m a Dyslexic Superhero, during COVID-19 lockdown when Kyla was getting diagnosed herself.

“During COVID-19 I was homeschooling my daughter and I noticed she wasn’t able to remember some words that weren’t phonetic,” Ms Hibbert said.

“I noticed she would happily do other subjects except for reading, she would be crying. We have dyslexia in the family as well so I noticed some of the similarities.”

Ms Hibbert said knew Kyla needed to get support and a diagnosis, and writing the book together was a way to bond and explore how Kyla was feeling.

“It’s a story about how she feels having dyslexia[and]itwasherwayofsharinghowshe felt about not being able to do what her friends could do.

“She would draw pictures of her in different sceneries and that would become the basis of the story. It was beautiful that we had that time together.”

Ms Hibbert said the main character wears a red cape, and helps to reclaim the colour which has been linked to children receiving their school work covered in red crosses and comments.

“The superhero cape is red and she is the living breathing superhero. I think she’s

Kyla with her book I’m a Dyslexic Superhero, that she wrote with her mum Marnie Hibbert. (Supplied)

empowered through the book… Positive reinforcement will go a long way.

“Whilst primary school can be difficult because it has a lot of focus on learning to read, life beyond is where [people with dyslexia] find

Cr Anne Moore steps back

Macedon Ranges South Ward councillor Anne Moore has resigned from her position effective immediately, citing health and family reasons. In an announcement on October 5, council said it received Ms Moore’s resignation letter on Wednesday, October 4.

Ms Moore was elected to represent the South Ward in October 2020, after collecting 13.85 per cent of the first preference votes, narrowly beating Christine Walker with 12.48 per cent.

Council chief executive Bernie O’Sullivan thanked Ms Moore for her work over the years.

“From myself personally but also on behalf of council, I would like to acknowledge [Ms] Moore’s passionate representation and contributions towards the shire and its residents,” Mr O’Sullivan said. “I thank [Ms] Moore for her service to our local community and support of the council team and wish her all the very best.”

Duringhertimeoncouncil,MsMoore was vocal about improved Maternal and Child Health (MCH) services in the Macedon Ranges.

their groove and can use their natural talents. “Nowmydaughterisamazingatreadingand is very competent, she knows her skills.”

Details: https://codereadnetwork.org/ get-involved/lir2023/

Speaking at the last council meeting on September27,MsMooresaidtheservices are vital to the community, especially breastfeeding support. “In modern day society most [mums]… are in and out of hospital generally between 24 to 48 hours,”shesaid. Councilofficerswillnow work with Local Government Victoria and the Victorian Electoral Commission to fill the vacancy, and it asked for Ms Moore’s privacy to be respected.

Splash of colour for Bolinda

By Zoe Moffatt

Bolinda Primary School received a splash of colour over the September school holidays to continue its post COVID-19 makeover. School staff were joined with about 20 Bunnings workers to paint the cubbyhouse, fences and the shed, which now stands as a mini version of the Bolinda Hall. Fortheschoolwithjust47students,principal Jordan Chamerski said Bunnings lending a hand for this community project makes a big difference to the school.

“The main goal was to give the school a bit more colour and life and make it an inviting place for the kids to come to,” he said.

“For our community it shows that we’re putting effort and time and energy to show pride in our school, we want the kids to build that pride as well.”

Mr Chamerski said a Bunnings community liaison officer offered to help the school with different projects after they had a BBQ to raise money for its swimming program.

He said the splash of colour has helped to revamp the area, which also includes a new

edible indigenous veggie garden.

“We received an about $1000 grant this year to design an indigenous garden, which was transformed [from] overgrown grass… into an area with planter boxes and herbs.

“The idea is that the kids can go in and have abitofatastester[and]there’samudkitchenas well for the kids [to play with].

“A big focus of our school was to get the grounds up to the standard before COVID-19. There’s no way we could have done any of this work without Bunnings.”

Left: Teacher aide Nicole Steward giving the Bolinda Primary School fence a splash of colour. Right: Bunnings’ activity organiser Lyn Rayner (front) with Bunnings workers helping to give Bolinda Primary School a makeover. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 361172

‘‘ The main goal was to give the school a bit more colour and life and make it an inviting place for the kids ’’

- Jordan Chamerski

Call-out for performers to join BoilOver program

Sunbury-based inclusive theatre company, BoilOver, is seeking new members.

BoilOver, a program offered by Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health, is open to anyone over the age of 18 who has an interest in performing or in the work that goes on behind the scenes in the performing arts.

There are opportunities for skill development, for example, thanks to a grant from the Australia Council for the Arts.The company has just finished a five-week circus

workshop where group members developed their aerial and lift techniques and worked on conditioning exercises to strengthen the body and build flexibility.

Led by professional arts practitioners, members learn to develop their confidence and performance skills in a safe and supportive environment as well as increase their fitness, emotional literacy, self-esteem and social networks.

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

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

This week the artists are taking part in the Melbourne Fringe Festival. On Saturday 14 October they will be performing their latest production, The Birds, at the Abbotsford Convent.

The performance will be followed by a Q&A with the performers who will also lead

a creative practice workshop. Tickets are available on the Fringe website.

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

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

BoilOver, a program offered by Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health, is for those interested in the performing arts. (Supplied)

A bright future awaits with the right support

Holistic Futures chooses to focus on the strengths and abilities of people and use these as a foundation to tailor the right support for your needs.

The Holistic Futures team thrive on supporting a person to achieve their goals and are there every step of the way.

If you need support in the community, Holistic can help – this could involve support

to get to know your community better and to make some new friends. You may also need some support in your home to help with your day-to-day activities, such as cooking, daily chores and attending appointments, or having some company when you are alone.

It is very important to have your own choice and control and the Holistsic Futures team will work together with you in choosing

the right support worker to help you in the community or with your daily support. Are you having trouble understanding your NDIS plan? Holistic Futures has a great team of support coordinators who are ready to help you will this too.

The team’s prime focus is YOU and creating environments in which you are provided independence, integrity and trust.

The diverse range of services maximise outcomes for participants. This is why Holistic Futures is a leader in community participation and daily activities.

There is capacity NOW to help. To enquire about any of the above services please call Kelly on 0490 065 296 and she will be more than happy to help you.

SIL Services are provided by Holistic Futures support staff and the house is suitable for participants who have no access needs. This property is not an SDA property. This is a New SIL - there are currently three vacancies in this house. This house has:

· 4 bedrooms (one will be for Support Worker)

· Built in robes in each bedroom

· 2 bathrooms,

· Double garage

· Large dining and living area

· Large new kitchen

· Large outdoor area

· Internet

The house is in close proximity to Gisborne Town Current Support Model: The house will offer support staff 24 hours, 7 days a week and overnight (sleepover) to meet resident’s individual needs.

Holistic Futures will work closely with you and your family and careers to establish a Supported Independent Living (SIL) quote for you.

If this house is not for you however you are still wanting to explore other housing options please reach out for a chat, as we also have other SIL options throughout Victoria.

Holistic Futures also provide the following supports:

• Social and Community Participation

• Daily Living – support at home

• Support Coordination

To register your interest please email or phone CONTACT US TODAY: 0490 065 296 info@holisticfutures.com.au www.holisticfutures.com.au

Mum’s mission in honour of son

The Rehmat Sandhu Foundation is a Melton-based charity that supports people across the west who are living with disability, struggling financially, experiencing domestic violence and much more. The founder, Ravinder Kaur, is driven by her strong will to rise above her grief and make a difference to the lives of people in need. She spoke to Liam McNally about the foundation’s journey.

Shortly after Ravinder Kaur’s son passed away in 2014, she received a call from a young girl who had met her son at a low point in her life.

The girl said she was sitting in a park alone in the city when a 21-year-old Rehmat Sandhu approached her.

“He said hello to me, and then he asked, are you okay? Are you crying?” she told Ms Kaur.

Thegirlsaidshewasinitiallyconfusedbythe stranger, but she explained to him that she was alone on her birthday and feeling sad.

“Straight away he called all his friends and they organised a birthday for her, a party and a cake and everything and celebrated her birthday,” Ms Kaur said.

“That was Rehmat, and he would do that for anyone.”

Ms Kaur said that it was to honour her son’s caring spirit that inspired her to launch her charity organisation, and name it the Rehmat Sandhu Foundation.

“The very word, Rehmat, means blessing,” she said.

“He was very compassionate, very kind and he always desired to make a positive impact on people, on the lives of others. So I’m just trying to do that.”

Since 2015 Ms Kaur’s tribute to her son’s legacy has been successful in uplifting the community in Melton and across the west.

Ms Kaur has a long history in the healthcare field, and The Rehmat Sandhu foundation began with blood drives and organ donation programs.

It quickly expanded into a leading charity organisation in the disability support field, as well as assisting people who are struggling in any way it can.

“Our aim is to enhance the lives of people

with disabilities by offering essential support services and promoting inclusivity within our community,” she said.

“We aim to reach out across all cultures and abilities, rendering assistance to anyone in need across Melton and the western suburbs.

“We meet the needs of homeless people, disadvantaged youth, seniors, those affected by domestic violence and vulnerable and financially struggling families.

“We also provide support and counselling services to new migrants and victims of domestic violence.”

Thefoundation’ssuccesshasbeenrecognised through record-breaking blood donations, a Victorian Premier’s Volunteer Champions award, and celebrated community events, but

for Ms Kaur it’s one-on-one assistance that brings the most satisfaction.

“We are particularly proud of our work in providing vital assistance to individuals with disabilities, helping them lead more fulfilling lives,” she said.

“Additionally, our foundation has made significant strides in promoting community awareness. Any positive change we bring to someone’s life is a source of pride for us.”

The current economic climate has seen demand for the foundation’s services increase, with Ms Kaur noting an increase in vulnerable families in need of food assistance, with fuel and day to day supplies.

The organisation responds to rising demand by making an effort to be available when many

organisations aren’t - including on weekends and holidays - and by doing little things that help struggling people regain their confidence, such as providing personalised birthdays for kids.

Ms Kaur said the organisation is soon set to expand following the purchase of a house in Melton West that is almost finished being renovated.

“We can accommodate more people with disabilities, or who are homeless, or domestic violence affected families,” she said.

“We’re going to have a community garden so that we can have a veggie patch and people can come and have coffee, socialise.

“Im very, very, excited about this one.”

Looking further ahead, Ms Kaur said her vision is for the foundation to continue to expand its reach and impact.

“We aim to continue providing comprehensive support to individuals with disabilities, fostering a more inclusive community. Additionally we aspire to create partnership and collaborations that enable us to make an even greater difference in the lives of those we serve,” she said.

Ms Kaur said it’s the community that keeps her going.

“I’m just trying to make a positive impact,” she said. “The love and support I get from everyone, it makes me keep going.

“Rehmat Sandhu foundation is we, not I, it’s all of us.”

Ms Kaur said anyone in the community who isstrugglingshouldreachouttothefoundation to see how they can help.

“Anyone who is in need, we dont judge, we don’t ask questions,” she said.

Details: https://rehmatsandhufoundation. com.au/

Ravinder Kaur with a picture of her son, Rehmat Sandhu. (Damjan Janevski) 362782_01

Rehmat Sandhu Foundation volunteers. (Joe Mastroianni) 291461_04

‘‘ Rehmat Sandhu foundation is we, not I, it’s all of us ... Anyone who is in need, we dont judge, we don’t ask questions ’’

- Ravinder Kaur

Cup visits Oaklands

With the race that stops the nation just around the corner, Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) Oaklands welcomed the Melbourne Cup as part of its tour in October.

Residents from Sunbury and surrounds attended RDA Oaklands on October 8, for a chance to see the cup, and enjoy special guest speakers, demonstrations and light refreshments.

RDA Oaklands volunteer Laurel Harrison said about 50 to 80 people attend the annual event.

“It’s so lovely the riders [dressed] up in silks and [rode] on their ponies for a demonstration,” she said.

“It’s wonderful for the parents to see their kids in their extracurricular activities. We invite them once a term to come but this is

a celebration of horse racing in an inclusive way.“

Ms Harrison said the cup tour is important toraisetheprofileofRDA,andtheyarealways looking for extra volunteers.

“We’ve got volunteers from the Macedon Ranges and south of Bulla… [and] we’re looking for more volunteers from the Melton area.

“There’s a waitlist for riders but the number of volunteers restricts the number of riders we can have, there’s a balancing act.”

Ms Harrison said volunteers don’t need to have experience, and they should email for extra information.

Details: rdaoaklands@gmail.com

Briefs

Operation’s final score

While footy fans enjoyed the grand final long weekend, Victoria Police detected 63 traffic offences in Hume and Macedon Ranges as part of Operation Scoreboard. The four day, statewide operation saw police targeting high-risk driving behaviour, from 12:01am Thursday, September 28 to 11:59pm Sunday, October 1, with a particular focus on drink and drug driving. In the Macedon Ranges, police detected 21 speeding offences, seven unregistered vehicles, two drink driving offences, one disqualified driver, one unlicensed driver and one offence of disobeying signs/signals.

In Hume, there were 16 speeding offences, three unregistered vehicles, one drink driving offence, one disqualified driver, one unlicensed driver, seven offences of disobeying signs/signals and one impoundment.

Library film club

As part of Goldfields Libraries

film club, Gisborne Library will be screening Revenir (To Return), rated PG, on Wednesday, October 11, from 1pm to 2.30pm. Kyneton Library will be screening The Last Daughter, rated PG, on Thursday, October 12, from 5pm to 6.30pm. The films are free to attend but booking is required. Details: https://goldfieldslibraries.com/

FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT

Web: starweekly.com.au

Sunbury & Macedon Ranges Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Zoe Moffatt

The Melbourne Cup in Oaklands. (Supplied)

MY PLACE

Sunbury Community radio host and Sunshine resident Ron Bourke tells Zoe Moffatt about his connection with the west and journey in radio.

Tell us a bit about yourself and what you do?

I’ve spent about half my life working in radio, starting out in regional stations in various places across three states. I eventually landed a job in news at 3AW in 1989, which was my final paid gig. I joined Sunbury Radio at the suggestion of my late brother-in-law John Bent who was station manager at the time.

Tell us about your time at 3AW and one of your favourite moments?

There’sneveradullmomentinabignewsroom, you never know what each day will bring. I enjoyed the variety of stories you get to cover, but media conferences at my AFL team North Melbourne were always special.

The Coode Island chemical fires were probably the most scary for me. At first nobody knew what toxins were billowing in the air and my granddaughters, who were very young at the time, were living close by in Yarraville.

What’s your connection to Sunbury and Melbourne’s west?

Although I don’t live in Sunbury, I enjoy coming to the town each week to present the radio show. It’s a thriving town that is growing fast.

What do you like about where you live?

I love living in Melbourne, I think it’s the best city in Australia, but better public transport is needed to get more cars off the road.

Spring has sprung

And what, if anything, would you change about where you live? What I would change if I could would be to do more to combat global warming. I fear we are going to leave a ruined planet to future generations.

Where is your favourite place to spend time?

My favourite place to hang out is Marvel

Stadium watching North Melbourne play but I admit that’s been disappointing this season. Also arriving at Sunbury Radio early each Tuesday morning to present another program still gives me a buzz.

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

Maybe people would be surprised to know that

I’vebeenmarriedtomywifeJamiefor60years. Also this late in life I’ve started to enjoy cooking, particularly pasta dishes, with a little advice from Jamie.

You can listen to Ron’s weekly breakfast show on 99.3FM from 6am to 9am, where the latest Sunbury and Macedon Ranges Star Weekly stories are discussed.

Melbourne’s outer north-west has been awash with a sea of yellow canola fields to welcome the change in season.

Sunbury and Macedon Ranges residents can witness the flowering fields, which are normally at their best from the middle of September through to the middle of October.

The crop is grown across the state- with

the main production in the south west- for its seeds, which are crushed to use in margarine and cooking oil.

According to Agriculture Victoria, Australia produces 1.9 to 2.7 million tonnes of the grain every year, and Victoria was the second-highest canola producing state between 2017-18 and 2019-20.

As a country, Australia is widely known for its high quality exports, and canola is no exception, with some significant international markets for its canola.

Most of Australia’s canola in 2019-20 was exported to the European Union for biodiesel, and in 2020 the five year average price was approximately $560 per tonne, Agriculture

Victoria said.

People wishing to see the vibrant fields can try the road to Sunbury Road past the airport or the Princes Freeway towards Little River.

‘Canola tourists’ are encouraged to enjoy from a distance, as most flowers are grown on private farms and used for agriculture.

The flowering fields are normally at their best from mid-September to mid-October. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 362170

Ron Bourke at Sunbury Community radio. (Damjan Janevski) 350833_02

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

WANT YOUR EVENT LISTED?

Woodend Art Group

Woodend Art Group’s members are holding their judged exhibition over the Melbourne Cup weekend. Paintings both framed and unframed, felt work, silk scarves, sculpture, pottery, photography and much more will be available to be viewed and purchased. The exhibition will be open on Friday evening, and judging will be done by Maxine McKee. Door prizes offered daily.

Have a laugh

Moonlite Theatre is proud to present our upcoming performance of Have a laugh. Consisting of a radio play, improv and a short comedy play. Showing from 8pm Friday, October 13, 2pm & 8pm Saturday, 14 October 2023 at Holly Trinity Anglican Church Hall, 19 Gisborne Road, Bacchus Marsh.

■ 0491 179 761

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

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

Carer connect chat

Connect with other carers in your local area, share a light lunch, have a chat at noon on the first Wednesday of the month. Head to Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health, 1 Caroline Chisholm Drive, Kyneton.

■ 0491 174 550, or rebecca.lees@scchc.org.au

HarmoniX Vocal Company

All-male singing group happening on

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

■ harmonixvcinc@gmail.com

Jacksons Creek Combined Probus

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

■ Doug, 5428 3317, or Teresa, 0417373006

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 9.45am.

■ 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

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.

Probus Club Of Sunbury

Join the Probus Club of Sunbury on the first Wednesday of the month at the Sunbury Bowling club at 9.30am. It’s a friendly men’s group open to visitors and new members, with a number of great events held each month.

■ Greg, 0417 593 035

CWA Woodend Eves

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

■ cwawoodendeves@gmail.com

Hume Men’s Shed

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

■ sunburymensshed.com or 0438 677 425

Drop-in guitar

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

■ www.sunburyhouse.com.au

Sunbury Badminton Club

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

■ sunburybc@gmail.com

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

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Evie, 5, with sunflowers as part of

a

local initiative to give away free seeds. (Damjan Janevski) 362972_01

PUZZLES

SUDOKU

No. 7482 75 96 543 2

QUICK CROSSWORD

ACROSS

1 Looks for (5)

4 Pathological self-admirer (9)

9 Contain (7)

3 Aqualung (5)

4 Foes (7)

5 Natural (7)

6 Talents (9)

7 Country (5)

8 Relating to the body (9)

1 538 27 54 3549

10 Instrument for crushing material into small pieces (7)

11 Subtle change by degrees (9)

12 US state (5)

13 Swine (3)

14 Bug poison (11)

16 Tools (11)

19 Long, slippery fish (3)

20 Cavalry sword (5)

22 Charity (9)

25 Print process (7)

26 Drank (7)

27 Dangled (9)

28 Unkempt (5)

DOWN

1 Throw (5)

2 Gives something and receives another (9)

13 Female religious leader (9)

14 From Israel (9)

15 Beyond words, indescribable (9)

17 Coped (7)

18 Cared for (7)

21 Dollars (coll) (5)

23 Puzzle (5)

24 Currently (5)

easy 243 5 9 567 4 2 549

86 2 61 7 9

1 78 5 48 1

hard

57 3 74 42

41 15 78 9

medium 29 7 8657 96 3

DECODER WORDFIT 9-LETTER WORD

Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural words ending in “s”.

Today’s Aim: 3 LETTERS ACE CAB CON EAR EVE FED HEM HUB KEY NEE NON ONE ORE OUT RIP RYE SAG SEE WAN WIN WIZ YEW

acquit, ACQUITTAL, actual, alit, aqua, aquatic, attic, laic, quail, quittal, tacit, tact, tactual, tail, tala, talc, taut

No. 154

1 In which city are the headquarters of the United Nations located?

2 Diamond is the birthstone for which month?

3 Who was the 23rd prime minister of Australia and longest-serving Australian Labor Party prime minister?

4 Which planet in the solar system is farthest from the sun?

5 What is the name of the founder of the Scout Movement?

6 What was the name of the assassination plot in which Guy Fawkes was famously involved?

7 With which legendary king do we associate the castle and court of Camelot?

8 Which football team did Charles Brownlow, namesake of the Brownlow Medal, play for?

9 Mark Zuckerberg (pictured) is the founder and CEO of which social networking site?

10 What is the highest peak in the Caucasus Mountains?

No. 154

No. 154

No. 154

SkinPower!

Thinkofitasa wrinklecreamthat tastesdelicious™

Revitalise your skin from the inside out with Sunraysia Prune Extract

Free from chemicals and one hundred percent natural

More than 70 prunes in every jar

Naturally rich in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals including potassium, dietary fibre, magnesium and vitamin K

Helps keep skin hydrated and healthy

Anti-ageing - helps prolong youthful glow

Helps promote skin cell regeneration –improving skin tone and texture

Enjoy a teaspoon daily, or mix with any food, tea, yogurt or use in cooking

District Mechanical Officer

•Location : Seymour Workshop

•Full Time : 30 June 2024

•DMO Grade 1 : $70,169 pa (plus 11% super)

•Work a 9 day fortnight

Are you a Qualified Motor Mechanic keen to secure a position where you can apply your expertise in preventative maintenance, corrective maintenance and approved modifications in a clean environment to well-maintained CFA vehicles?

This full-time role will see you work in our Seymour workshop from the hours of 7:30am to 4:30pm Monday to Friday. All tools and equipment are supplied.

This is a great opportunity to embark on a rewarding journey with CFA, where you can explore the possibilities of a career path that awaits you!

For further information about this position, including a Position Description, key requirements and details on how to apply, please visit www.cfa.vic.gov.au and select ‘Volunteer & Careers’ followed by ‘Jobs at CFA’. Closing date: 15 October 2023 (11:59 pm) CFA is committed to creating and maintaining a diverse, inclusive, and safe volunteer and work environment.

Burnside Retirement Village

Duties:Administrative - bookkeepingpublic relations

Position: Permanent Part-Time - hours negotiable

Selection Criteria:

•At lea st three year’s relevant work experience

• A basic working knowledge of XERO

• A general knowledge of bookkeeping

• A practical knowledge of Word and Excel

• Motivation to achieve Contact:

Jenny Obradovic

Burnside Retirement Village 16 Nicol Avenue Burnside VIC 3023

T: 8361 0490

E: officeadmin@bvrsa.com.au

Please contact the office for an information

The Victorian Equal Opportunity Act 1995 makes it unlawful for an advertiser to show any intention to discriminate on the basis of sex, pregnancy, race, age, marital status, political or religious belief or physical features, disability, lawful sexual activity/sexual orientation, HIV/AIDS status or on the basis of being associated with a person with one of the above characteristics, unless covered by an exception under the Act. As Network Classifieds could be legally liable if an unlawful advertisement is printed, Network Classifieds will not accept advertisements that appear to break the law. For more information about discrimination in advertising, contact your legal advisers or the Equal Opportunity Commission.

Prescription changes explained

By Christopher Carter, Ceo Of North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network

You’ve probably heard about Australian government changes to medicine prescribing rules, and how it’s now possible to get your regular pills for two months at a time instead of one.

If,likemanyofus,youusuallypopintoyour local pharmacy 12 times a year for medicinesand maybe double that if you also collect stuff for a family member – then this is good news.

However, it’s important to remember that this change doesn’t happen automatically, and you can’t just ask for twice the amount from the nice people behind the counter at your pharmacy – even if you’ve been going there for years and they know you well!

The main thing you need to know is that the repeats on your current prescription will still be valid only for a month at a time, and, no, you can’t use two of them at once.

Strictly speaking, the new scheme covers 60-day prescriptions - which is as near enough to two months to make no difference. The plan is that for certain long-term medications - those for cholesterol or diabetes or endometriosis, as examples – 60-day supplies will be available, but only as long as your doctor thinks it’s a good idea.

On September 1 this year, almost 100 common medicines listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme became eligible for 60-day prescriptions. By this time next year the list is expected to have grown to over 300.

To take advantage of this you need to talk with your GP, who has to make some important decisions with you. They have to be confident your condition, whatever it is, is well managed by the medications and that

you won’t need a change of dosage for the next couple of months.

If they consider that you are doing well on the meds, then they may issue 60-day scripts, with repeats.

The 60-day prescriptions look different to the normal monthly ones, so your pharmacist can identify it at a glance. And, of course, your pharmacist might ask you a couple of gentle

questions, to make sure you’re comfortable with the new arrangement. These new rules, the government says, will save many Medicare card holders up to $180 a year, and concession card holders up to $43.80 a year. They don’t affect the PBS Safety Net in any way.

So, patience is probably the key here. Remember that your current repeat scripts –

even if the medication is on the list - are still monthly,andthereisnothingyourpharmacist can do to change that.

Once the time comes to see your doctor for some more, however, ask them if you can have the two-month versions. And remember, even with them, i you can still pop into your local pharmacist as often as you like for great advice!

The ultimate 4x4 dual cab ute

By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring

Well, hello. We’d almost forgotten about the other Korean – you know, SsangYong.

After some financial woes, restructure and change of ownership, SsangYong is back in business selling cars, with two SUVs and a 4x4 dual cab ute to offer.

Originally launched here in 2004, Musso was available as both a ute and SUV, the former calledtheMussoSports,whichattractedbuyers with a bargain price and Mercedes-sourced turbo-diesel.

These days ute and SUV have parted company, but it’s the Musso 4x4 dual cab ute that we are checking out here and its bid to grab a slice of the lucrative sports utility market.

Launched in 2018, Musso is offered in two lengths with different-sized tubs, but is not available in cab-chassis form with a metal tray replacement.

Styling

Musso comes in a choice of short or long wheelbase, both with the same 2.2-litre turbo-diesel.

The short wheelbase version is 5095mm long, with a 3100mm wheelbase and 1300mm long tub – and can carry a 790kg payload.

At 5409mm, the XLV is 314mm longer, with a stretched 3210mm wheelbase and extended 1600mm tub that is able to accommodate a full tonne (1020kg). The shorter version is fitted with benign five-link coil suspension and is more of a sports focused model.

Tick the box for the long wheelbase option and it also comes with supportive leaf springs at the rear and is targeted at the working end of the market.

Both versions have independent, double-wishbone front suspension. There are two grades from which to choose, ELX and Ultimate, with a couple of add-on packs from which to pick.

Prices start from $36,790 driveaway for the short wheelbase ELX with a six-speed manual.

ThelongwheelbaseELXis$38,290driveaway, also with a manual. An auto adds $2000.

Ultimate is priced from $43,090 driveaway, with an auto and metallic paint thrown in. Addingthelongertubtakesthepriceto$44,590 and topping it off with the Luxury Pack takes the total driveaway price to $47,590.

Metallic paint is $495, the XLV Pack $1500 and Ultimate Pack $3000.

Even at these prices it leaves plenty of overhead for further optioning the vehicleand there’s plenty of them.

Sports bars, fender flares, side steps, tub liner, roller tonneau, under-body protection and sports suspension kits are available.

There’s a choice of six colours. Atlantic Blue is standard; Grand White, Silky White Pearl, Marble Grey, Space Black or Indian Red cost extra.

Standard kit includes cloth seats and manual air, 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, 18-inch alloys, cruise control, LED daytime running lights, front fog lights, projector headlights with integrated LED turn signals, frontandrearparkingsensors,autohighbeam, auto lights and wipers and an auto dimming mirror.

Ultimate adds black 18-inch alloys, artificial leather, heated and cooled front seats, heated steering wheel, 360-degree camera and walk-away locking.

Our test vehicle was the short wheelbase Ultimate with $205 Luxury Pack fitted at $46,685 driveaway.

It adds Nappa leather, dual zone climate air, HID headlights, power-adjust front seats, powered driver lumbar support, heated rear seats and a power operated sunroof.

Musso is covered by a seven-year unlimited kilometre warranty, with seven-year roadside assistance and seven-year capped price servicing.

The warranty extends to commercial use.

Infotainment

Infotainment consists of an 8.0-inch touchscreen, six-speaker audio, Bluetooth,

AM/FM radio and wired Apple Carplay and Android Auto.

It’s not the fastest, or most intuitive system that we have used – but it’s not the worst either.

At times it can be difficult to see, particularly in strong sunlight.

The front console offers two USB-A ports, a 12V/120W power outlet and a cigarette lighter.

Engines / transmissions

noise and a more refined ride.

Weighing up to 2090kg, it can tow a 3500kg braked load and is equipped with trailer sway control as standard.

Steering is hydraulic in ELX but Ultimate scores speed sensitive power steering, with an 11.8-metre or 12.2-metre turning circle depending on wheelbase.

AT A GLANCE

MODEL RANGE

ELX manual, $36,790

ELX auto, $38,790

ELX XLV manual, $38,290

ELX XLV auto, $40,290

Ultimate auto, $43,090

Ultimate XLV auto, $44,590

Ultimate Luxury auto, $46,090

Ultimate XLV Luxury auto, $47,590 SPECIFICATIONS

SsangYong Musso Ultimate 4x4 dual cab utility, 2.2-litre turbo-diesel, 6spd automatic, part-time 4WD

Note: These prices are driveaway and include government or dealer delivery charges.

The first holds 1011 litres while the longer tub has a 1262-litre capacity - an increase of almost 25 per cent.

A

2.2-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel produces 133kW of power at 4000 rpm and 400Nm of torque from 1400-2800 rpm.

The latter figure rises to 420Nm in the longer XLV but is available over a narrower band from 1600 to 2600 rpm, presumably because it is expected to carry heavier loads.

Transmission is six-speed manual or six-speed auto, with drive to the rear wheels and selectable four-wheel drive, with 2Hi, 4Hi and 4Lo ranges. It also has an auto-locking rear diff.

Safety

As yet Musso has not been rated by ANCAP for safety and we cannot justifiably award more than five points for this feature on this basis.

But the safety story is a strong one with six airbags, a rear-view camera and Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) with Forward Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Front Vehicle Start Warning, Active Rollover Protection and Driver Attention Warning.

Ultimate adds Blind Spot Detection (BSD), Rear Cross Traffic Warning (RCTW) Lane Change Collision Warning (LCW) and Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

Two ISOFIX and three top tether child seat anchors are provided.

The entry level model lacks reach adjustment for the steering wheel, but in a real faux-pas the rear-centre seating position is equipped only with a lap seat belt.

It’s been a long time since we’ve seen one of these in a modern vehicle.

Driving

Musso’s new body-on-frame platform is shared with the SsangYong Rexton.

The rigid body-on-frame design features high strength steel with eight large mounting points that contribute to lower levels of road

And,insomethingofararityforthesegment, it comes with four-wheel disc brakes, ventilated at the front -- most of the more fancied utes still come with rear drums.

With a 75-litre tank, fuel consumption ranges from 7.9 to 9.0L/100km, depending on grade and wheelbase.

Nexen N Priz RH7 road tyres are fitted, with 255/60 18s for Musso and 235/70 17s for XLVsilver for ELX and black for Ultimate.

A full-size spare is provided.

We’ve always felt the tub in the Musso was too short, a bit stubby even compared to other utes. The latest model addresses this issue, at leastwiththelongwheelbaseXLVwhichboasts one of the longest tubs in its class.

Having said that, we were still able to transport a heavy, power adjustable hospital-style bed in the short wheelbase, even though the end jutted over the tailgate.

Fortunately, it was only for a short distance.

Although our test vehicle was not fitted with side steps, grab handles at each of the four doors makes entry easier.

Rear legroom is limited, particularly for knees which press the back of the front seat.

Musso is push-button start and performance is surprisingly strong, both off the mark and in roll-on acceleration.

You can change gears manually with a thumb-operated switch on the side of the transmission lever.

The feel is solid but nothing fancy, with stiff suspension that generates plenty of old school shake and shudder. Large bumps are likely to produce some steering wheel backlash.

The digital instrument cluster looks a bit underdone and while you can choose from three different skins, it needs to be more configurable.

In terms of dimensions, the standard tub is 1300mm x 1570mm x 570mm, with a width of 1100mm between wheel arches. The longer tub is 1600mm, with other dimensions the same.

As for off-road capability, Musso presents mainly as a farm or worksite candidate. Weekend warriors will need to invest in a lift kit and some chunkier all-terrain rubber to tackle anything tougher.

Low range gearing and a locking rear diff deliver plenty of traction, with hill descent control as well as hill start assist to help.

But a silly 23-degree approach angle, modest 215mm ground clearance and equally shy 350mm wading depth are limiting factors, the former when it comes to negotiating tricky fire trails with some rock hopping involved.

But the foundations are good and Musso certainly has potential.

We were getting an impressive 7.1L/100km after more than 500km.

Summing up

Musso is the proverbial value for money.

The styling is generic but the basics are there, it just needs fine tuning to meet market expectations.

To wit we live in a digital world and that means digital radio and a wireless charge pad need to be added.

It’s got the desired black wheels but a sports bar and soft tonneau (at minimum) are needed to complete the look that 4x4 dual cab buyer’s desire.

CarPlay and Android Auto are okay when they work, but when you’re out in the sticks and run out of reception, built-in navigation is your friend.

These electronic aids are all available in other markets, but have obviously been removed to keep down the price.

While resale could be an issue, Musso presents as a quality product with more than enough off-road capability for most, at a price that is frankly difficult to ignore.

Don’t forget the Nappa leather and vented front seats.

Musso – hard to pass up at the price. (Pictures: Supplied)

Dons win with Prespakis on fire

Essendon has pulled off a sensational 10-point come-from-behindwinoverGeelong,climbing back into the AFLW top eight in the process.

Left with a sour taste in their mouths after a 20-point loss to Collingwood last round, the Bombers overcame a scoreless first term to win 4.5 (29)-2.7 (19) against the Cats at Reid Oval on Sunday.

The sixth-round win provided Essendon midfield star Maddy Prespakis with family bragging rights over younger sister Georgie in their second AFLW skirmish.

Maddy also celebrated her 50th game in style with 33 disposals and six clearances as she arm-wrestled Georgie (26, 10) for dominance in the midfield.

The younger Prespakis, in her 25th game, kicked the game’s first goal but was denied by the umpires who ruled - without an AFLW score review system - the ball was touched.

The ever-prolific Chloe Scheer broke through twice to give the Cats a 14-point lead whilethehostswerescorelessbyquarter-time.

A desperate Essendon went to work in the second term, leading contested possessions 14 to four for the term and generating three of the first four inside 50s.

With a minute left on the clock and only three behinds on the scoreboard, Amber Clarke snapped the ball towards goal.

As the ball looked sure to spray across the face, it miraculously bounced backward to slot through the posts and give the Bombers a much-needed six points.

Bombers co-captain Bonnie Toogood cut the margin to one point to kickstart the second half and bring herself within three goals of 50 career majors.

With scores level at three quarter-time, Georgia Nanscawen (24 disposals, six clearances) worked diligently to put the ball

SPORTS QUIZ

1. How many points did Collingwood win the 2023 AFL Grand Final by?

2. Which team does the 2023 Dally M medal winner Kalyn Ponga play for?

3. The Qizhong Forest Sports City Arena is set to host which ATP tennis tournament?

back in the hands of the Bombers.

Daria Bannister kicked truly to put Essendon in the lead and was backed by another from Clarke to seal the win.

Bombers’ coach Natalie Wood said she was pleased with the team’s performance.

4. The Bathurst 1000 is an annual race in which series?

5. How many kilometres long is a marathon?

6. Which Australian swimmer won the 2022 World Swimmer of the Year?

7. Harry Kane recently announced his departure from which English Premier League team? What is the training

Which team recently won the 2023 Laver Cup tennis tournament by

Who is the most decorated Australian

Which NRL awarded the 2023 Clive Churchill

Which AFL player awarded the 2023 Norm Smith Medal?

“Geelong have been going really well at the start of the season and we were a bit off our game,” she said.

“We had a lot of work to do, so I’m probably most impressed that we were able to adapt a few things in our game style and put ourselves

13. Which NRLW player was awarded the 2023 Karyn Murphy Medal?

14. Which team did Newcastle Knights defeat 24-18 to win the 2023 NRLW Grand Final?

15. Which Australian bowler took a hat-trick versus the Netherlands in a recent warm-up match?

16. Which two teams qualified to play off in the 2023 WNBA Finals?

17. Which Northern Irish golfer was particularly upset at an opposing caddie during the 2023 Ryder Cup?

18. An officail at the 19th Asian Games suffered a fractured leg after being struck during which throwing event?

19. Retired US baseball pitcher Curt Schilling won how many World Series championships?

20. Travis Kelce plays tight end for which NFL team?

21. What is the name of the annual Indigenous Rugby League carnival held in New South Wales?

in the contest.

“Maddy [Prespakis] has got a great ability to stand up each week, she shoulders a lot for us… I thought Maddy set the tone for us.”

Essendon (3-3) faces off with eight-placed Richmond next round.

22. In what year was the Los Angeles Olympics boycotted by Russia and more than a dozen other countries?

23. Which AFL team has the first pick in the 2023 National Draft?

24. Which nation did the Wallabies defeat in their final group match of the 2023 Rugby World Cup?

25. How many AFL/VFL premierships has Collingwood won?

26. And which player was Collingwood’s top goal kicker of the 2023 season?

27. Which US gymnast is to have the double pike vault skill named after her?

28. Which NBL team plays home games at RAC Arena?

29. Who is the Australian women’s cricket team currently playing a Twenty20 International series against?

30. Which city will host the NFL Super Bowl this current season?

Travis Kelce

Harry Kane

Amelia Radford (Essendon FC)

First year no worries for the best and fairest

Woodend-Hesket young gun Mariam Habib has won the Riddell District Football League best and fairest in her first year of senior football.

Habib played for the Hawk’s youth girls side last year and joined the senior women’s team this year for the RDFL’s inaugural women’s competition.

Being so young Habib was taken aback by winning the award, especially seeing as she came runners up in her club’s best and fairest award.

“Iwasprettysurprisedtobehonestbecause I didn’t really expect it,” she said.

“I didn’t think I had a good season that would win the best and fairest, especially for the senior womens.

“This year the competition was at another level, because Kyneton moved in and there were a lot of women who were amazing footy players, so I really didn’t think I would get it.”

From playing youth girls last year which was equivalent to an under 18s competition to playing senior footy was a big jump Habib said, but one that she enjoyed.

“It was a lot more intense this year,” she said.

“Lastyeartherewasbarelyanycompetition with just the four teams but with the new sides coming in, Melton and Kyneton, it was really good.

“It was nice to play in good contests, I felt like that probably helped me a lot with my game too.”

Habib said that winning this award was a goalofhersandputalotofworkinthroughout the year to achieve it.

“It was something that I’ve been working towards,” she said.

“I really focused on my own footy this year, and just went for extra kicks and worked with one of my coaches who is helping me in the

midfield a bit.

“I was just playing my own footy this year and also just helping the team out where I could.

“I actually want to play at a higher level of footy, hopefully one day I’ll get there but it’s all through hard work.”

Last season, Habib’s youth side won the premiership, this year the Hawks lost in the first elimination final, returning to success is something she said she is determined to do.

“We were hoping this year to go back to back, especially with the team being quite the same,” she said.

“We didn’t get in a lot of girls that were above 18, a lot of the younger girls stepped up too, so we were pretty happy with how we went with the young girls and everyone put what they could into it.”

White returns to Lions

By Harper Sercombe

A favourite son of the Sunbury Lions has returned home for the 2024 season.

Former Richmond and Port Adelaide player Matt White will coach the Ballarat Football League side next season.

White was drafted out of the Lions and the Calder Cannons in 2005 pre-season draft to the Tigers.

He went on to play 153 top level games, kicking 98 goals across his career, including one goal of the year in 2014, before retiring in 2017.

Since retiring from the AFL, White has assistant coached at Victorian Football League club Coburg and played for Montmorency in the Northern Football League.

However, White won’t lace on the boots at the Lions as he replaces Travis Hodgson who is now coaching at Melton South in the BFL.

“It’s exciting to be able to say that I coach my own team and to say it’s my old local club, which is pretty special,” White said.

“It’s been good, I got to have a good chat with the leadership group and meet a lot of the boys, the message was pretty clear that we’re just going to go for it.

“I’ve got a pretty clear game plan that I’m going to try and get across to the boys.

“I’ll bring in some of my own ideas and hopefully we can just really launch into the season and have a very good year.”

Last season the Lions needed just one win from their final four matches to qualify for finals and were unable to do so, finishing in seventh. However, White said he was appreciative of the work done by Hodgson since his tenure started in 2019.

“I genuinely need to thank him for what he’s done at Sunbury and what I’ve inherited from him, he’s done really well with turning the list over,” White said.

“It’s a young group but it’s a group that really wants to learn and really wants to play good footy together.

“I think that’s the main thing, that they’re sticking together… they’ve kept almost the whole list from this year.

“We’ll try and top up with some other talent and really springboard off what Trav [Hodgson] had done for the club.”

Playing September football is the obvious next step for the Lions, though, White said he won’t cap the potential of his side.

“I think it would be stupid if somebody didn’t say that [finals is the goal],” he said.

“I’m not putting ceilings on what we can do but I will be putting a bottom end on what we can’t do.

“It’ll be between me and the players what we’ve got in store for the year, but we’re not aiming low.”

While in the AFL system, White played under three-time premiership coach Damien Hardwick, long-serving Port Adelaide coach Ken Hinkley, as well as the most recent AFL premiership coach Craig McCrae who served as an assistant under Hardwick.

“I had a lot to do with him [McCrae]... so I’ll be stealing bits and pieces from all of those guys and even the guys I’ve been dealing with at Coburg for the last two years,” White said.

Sports shorts

RDNL

Woodend-Hesket has announced that Ty Coppinger will be the netball coach in 2024, coaching both A and B grade. Coppinger has been with the club for two years now and captained the A grade premiership team this year. The club said via social media she is an extremely talented player who brings with her a wealth of knowledge and experience gained from years of playing and coaching. “Ty played an integral part in supporting Meg [Grbac] this season and the whole netball squad is delighted that Ty will be taking over and continuing to build on the success of the netball program,” the club said. “The club would also like to sincerely thank Meg Grbac for her outstanding contribution at the club over three years.”

Macedon netball

The Macedon netball club has also announced a coaching change with the appointment of Katie Clarke taking the reins. Clarke started coaching over two decades ago and the club said her experience and dynamic personality aligns perfectly with the direction the club is heading in 2024. This three year deal see’s Clarke commit to the Cattery until 2026.

RDFL

Woodend-Hesket football club is seeking expressions of interest for the senior women’s coaching role in 2024. After a successful first year in the Riddell District Football League making the finals and with four players being named in the team of the year and Mariam Habib winning the league best and fairest, the club said, “this is a wonderful opportunity for someone looking to further develop the women’s program. The successful applicant will have the ability to engage the players, develop and improve their skill level, and build strong connections with the junior club and within the senior club.” All applications stating your coaching experience and what you would bring to the role should be addressed to Anne-Louise Lindner and Paul Podbury and sent to president@ woodendhesketfnc.org by Tuesday 17 October.

FOR MORE SPORT, VISIT

Web: starweekly.com.au

Sunbury & Macedon Ranges Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Mariam Habib. 365103_01

Harper Sercombe

Matt White. (AAP Image/Dave Hunt)

Mixed results to kick off the new CBL season

The Kyneton Tigers faced the Macedon Ranges Rockies to kick off the Country Basketball Season in both the men’s and women’s competitions.

In the men’s the Tigers got off to a great start on Saturday afternoon, leading by a point at quarter time.

In the second term the Rockies really started to assert their dominance on the game, winning the quarter 20 to 11 to give them an eight point halftime lead.

The Tigers showed they were up for the fight, cutting the lead to just five points with a quarter to play. However, it was all Rockies in the last, dominating the court allowing the Tigers just five points for the term while scoring 24 of their own. The Rockies won by 24 points, 81-57. It was a well rounded team effort for the Rockies with every player on the roster scoring a bucket.

Matthew Merrett and Nick Grantham led the way with 15 and 14 points respectively.

For the Tigers it wasn’t as much of an even spread with Kyle Bravo-Cripps and Jordan Mangan doing most of the scoring with 17 points each.

TheRockieshotstartunfortunatelycouldn’t last long as they were defeated by Castlemain on Sunday afternoon.

The Cannons were far too strong for the Rockies winning by 18 points, 82-64.

The scoring was again even for the Rockies with all but one player hitting the scoreboard.

Matthew Merrett and Nick Grantham again top scored, with 12 and 11 points a piece.

It was the opposite result in the women’s competition with the Tigers proving too strong for the Rockies.

The Tigers were on top from the outset, leading by three points at quarter time, which

grew to 15 at the main break.

In the third quarter it seemed the Rockies were mounting a comeback winning the quarter by five points.

However, the Tigers again stretched the lead back out 14, to win 71-57.

Michelle Fletcher and Alexandra Strawhorn led the way for the Tigers scoring 17 points each.

For the Rockies, Adrienne Cameron did the bulk of the heaving lifting, scoring 16 points.

On Sunday, the Tigers continued on their winning ways, defeating the Bendigo Braves by three points, 79-76.

Alexandra Strawhorn and Jessica Mangan dominated the game with 30 and 27 points respectively.

The Rockies however, couldn’t change their form, being badly beaten by 40 points to the Melton Thoroughbreds, 89-49.

Cannons’ best and fairest

Calder Cannons hosted their best and fairest awards nights last week.

In the Talent League boys side it was a two way tie for the Robert Hyde medal between Mahmoud Taha and Jayden Nguyen. Taha is an attacking midfielder who has impressed throughout the 2023 season.

He played 12 matches for the Cannons throughout the season, averaging 27 disposals, 2.7 marks, 5.3 tackles and 5.3 inside 50s. Taha was also able to hit the scoreboard, booting seven goals across the season.

Nguyen is an underage talent who is expected to go to another level next season as he hits his draft year.

This year Nguyen averaged 19.2 disposals, 2.8 marks, 1.9 tackles, 2 rebound 50s and 2.3 inside 50s, in his 13 matches.

Nguyen wasn’t able to have the same scoreboard effect as Taha, only kicking five goals for the year.

AminNaimcamethirdinthebestand fairest, booting 26 goals from 14 games.

Close wins Ryan medal

By Harper Sercombe

Riddell’s Ellen Close has won the Ryan medal in a three-way tie for the Riddell District Netball Leagues best and fairest.

Close won it alongside Wallan’s Gemma Grimmond and Woodend-Hesket’s Tayissa Coppinger, who was also last year’s winner.

Close is captain of the Bombers and led her side to a grand final this season.

However, the Bombers fell agonisingly short ofpremiershipsuccess,losingjusttheirsecond game of the season as they were defeated by the Hawks by 11 goals in overtime a couple of weeks ago.

DespitetheBombers’fantasticseason,Close was not expecting to win the Ryan medal.

“I definitely didn’t go in thinking I had any sort of chance,” she said.

“It’s very, very pleasing and I’m very humbled to receive the award because I know how hard it is to get.”

Close followed in her sister, Lauren’s, footsteps as she won the award years ago.

“We got there (the awards night) and we were looking at the brochure they have on the

table and it was literally 10 years since Lauren won it,” Close said.

“So that was pretty cool to be able to share something so special with her.”

On top of sharing the award with her sister, Close said it was a “cool” feeling sharing the award with two other women on the night.

“I used to play VNL (Victorian Netball League) with Ty [Coppinger] so I knew that she’s a quality player within her own right so that was pretty special to be able to share that with her,” she said.

“I’ve played against Gemma [Grimmond] for many, many years now, and I know how much of a quality player she is, so to be able to share it with her was pretty cool as well.

“It’s nice to know that you’re up there with people that have stuck around the league for quite a while and are doing some good things as well.”

Close said another year of development and chemistry building with some of her newer teammates took her game to the next level, culminating in winning this award.

“Last year was my first year playing with Shelby [Holter], our goal shooter, and I think

our connection has only grown stronger,” she said.

“Then to have Maddy Brown and Ruby Shannon out in front of me, it was the first time we’d played together, so I felt like I was pretty lucky in goals to have the ball handed to me on the plate.

“And to play out in wing attack a bit, was a nice experience and something that I hadn’t really done before, so that was a nice little change up this season.”

While the grand final loss still stings for Close, she said the Bombers are ready to go for season 2024.

“It’s been a pretty deep reflective time, not only for me but the club and everyone who played in that game,” she said.

“To know that we are a brand new team basically and to come from six goals down at three quarter time is something pretty special, andsomethingwecandefinitelytakepositives out of going into next year.

“Hopefully, we can just continue to build that bond within our group and hopefully take home the cup next year.”

Lachie Hall was handed the coaches’ award while the Corporal Cameron Braid award for the most courageous player went to Jordan Croft.

Croft has a father-son link to the Western Bulldogs and is likely to be taken in the first round of the draft.

Inthegirl’steamKayleyKavanaghwas awarded the Meg McArthur award for theteam’sbestandfairest.Kavanaghwas fantastic throughout the season, playing 11 games for the Cannons. Kavanagh averaged 25.3 disposals, 4 marks, 8.3 tackles, 1.4 rebound 50s and 3.2 inside 50s for the year.

Maddison Albrecht came second and Yasmin Welsford was third.

Amy Gaylor was said to be the most courageous player, while Ava Gerada was handed the coaches’ award.

Tadhg Condron (Jacob Pattison)363953_05

Kayley Kavanagh. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 338826_13_25

Ellen Close (Ljubica Vrankovic) 360896_91