Star Weekly - Sunbury Macedon Ranges - 24th October 2023 by Star Weekly

Established in 1981 as the

proudly serving Sunbury and Macedon Ranges

24 OCTOBER, 2023

Birthday

Sale! 299

Australian Chicken Drumsticks

(Minimum buy 1.25kg)

$ Australian Premium Beef Porterhouse Portions

99 kg

89¢ ea

Australian Pre-Packed Brown Onions 1kg

1kg bag

89¢ per kg

Celebrating

52 Years

Jack & Audrey Pioneers 1989

Circa 1971

On Sale Wednesday 25th October until Tuesday 31st October 2023 Melton

Sunbury

Gisborne

Glengala

Delahey Supa Valu

331-345 High St,

Cnr Station & O’Shanassy, 9744 4290

Cnr Brantome & Robertson, 5428 3200

Cnr David Drive & Fitzgerald Rd 8390 6988

Delahey Village Shopping Centre, Taylors Rd, 9362 1207

9743 4600

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Schweppes Mixers 4x300mL Selected Varieties $2.88 per Litre

5 2 nd B i r t h d a y S a l e ! 345

SAVE $3.45

115

599

350

Fantastic Rice Crackers 100g Selected Varieties

ALL YOU NEED THIS

Yummy Natural Almonds 500g

SAVE $1.15

Betty Crocker Cake Mix 450-540g Selected Varieties

SAVE $6

$1.20 per 100g

$1.15 per 100g

SAVE $3.50

HotE! PRIC

MULTI-BUY Lynx Antiperspirant Deodorant 165mL Selected Varieties $2.36 per 100mL

Bertocchi Middle Bacon

99 kg

SAVE $4.11

Kellogg’s Nutri-Grain 765g

Boss Coffee 4x273mL Selected Varieties

SAVE $4.81

399 ea

$5.32 per kg

save 75¢

$1.29 per 100g Single Sell $1.29

159

$ McCain Pub Style Chips 750g Selected Varieties

for

Aeroplane Jelly 85g Selected Varieties

SAVE $3.01

$9.82 per Litre

71¢ per 100g

3 330

Heinz Baked Beans or Spaghetti 300g Selected Varieties

SAVE $1.51

53¢ per 100g

Cadbury Sharepacks 144-180g Selected Varieties

SAVE $1.21

pack

250

SAVE $2.50

Brookvale ookvale e 6x330mL, Cruiser Black iser Bla ack 4x375mL or Woodst Woodstock tock & Cola 4x200mL 12% 4x x200mL

$ Don Donskis Pork Crackle 50g $4 per 100g

$ ea

SAVE $1

Dine Cat Food 7x85g Selected Varieties $1.01 per 100g

SAVE $3.01

SHOP, SCAN & WIN

FOR YOUR CHANCE TO SHARE IN OVER $6,000 IN PRIZES $100

$100

n a c S YOUR IGA REWARDS

CARD WITH ANY PURCHASE TO ENTER*

Melton

Sunbury

Gisborne

Glengala

Delahey Supa Valu

331-345 High St,

Cnr Station & O’Shanassy, 9744 4290

Cnr Brantome & Robertson, 5428 3200

Cnr David Drive & Fitzgerald Rd, 8390 6988

Delahey Village Shopping Centre, Taylors Rd, 9362 1207

12583990-FC43-23

9743 4600

Weekly Specials available Wednesday 25/10/23 until Tuesday 31/10/23. Pictures used for illustration purposes only. While stocks last. Retail quantities only. No trade supplied. All prices include GST where applicable. Some products or varieties may not be available at all stores. IGA Liquor supports the responsible service of alcohol. Tobacco and alcohol not sold to under 18’s. We reserve the right to correct printing errors.

2W SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 24 October, 2023

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VIC res. 18+ who are IGA Rewards members and make a purchase in their participating primary store only. Starts 18/10/23 9am AEDT. Ends 14/11/23 11:59pm AEDT. Limit 3 entries/person/day. es/person/day Max 1 entry/tran entry/transaction. Max 1 prize/person. Draws: 1pm AEDT, 21/11/23, 5691 Thomas Holt Drive, Macquarie Park NSW 2113. See https://igarewards.com.au/morgans-birthday-terms for Terms and Conditions. Entries not valid if only purchasing tobacco, gift cards or electronic recharge.

Established in 1981 as the

proudly serving Sunbury and Macedon Ranges

24 OCTOBER, 2023

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FREE DIGITAL EDITION

SIG N U P N O W!

Nightmare on the Hill

Sunbury resident Patrick Blume in front of his Halloween decorated house (Damjan Janevski). 366707_01

Located right beside Sunbury cemetery, 3 Donnelly Close, Jackson’s Hill sits idle throughout the year, waiting to transform into Sunbury’s house of horrors on the last day of October. This year, the house will have a cannibalism theme and will include ‘flesh’ char grilled on a spit roast. Sunbury resident Patrick Blume started decorating his house in 2016, and introduces a different theme every year. “The weird thing is I’m not a horror fan, you’ll never catch me watching a scary movie… but I love making things and building,” Mr Blume said. “I like to do something new every year… so people can come back and have a different experience. It’s the creation process that’s the fun part.” Mr Blume said Halloween will include a walk through experience, where he will be waiting with another actor to scare those who dare to enter. “Last year we did a zombie disposal unit [and] this year I am going for a cannibal theme [where]... I’m going to barbecue someone on a spit roast,” he said. “It’s not just the neighbourhood [that gets involved], people end up coming from all over Sunbury. Throughout the day I’ll have about a 1000 people come through.” Zoe Moffatt

Road frustration builds By Zoe Moffatt Macedon Ranges community members have voiced their frustration about the Black Forest Drive upgrade, saying they do not feel consulted over the decision, which includes new bike lanes. The upgrade includes changing the lane configuration to one lane in each direction for dedicated bike lanes, a new painted centre median for new right-turn lanes and pedestrian refuges and road surface resealing.

This follows the road’s deadly history between Woodend and Macedon, recording 35 crashes resulting in serious injury and five fatalities since 2001. Gisborne resident Keshia Mason uses the road about once a week, and said most of the people she has heard speaking about it are against the lanes being reduced. “I feel like they sort of have doubled back on ideas that were rejected by the community and have not explored other options,” Ms Mason said.

Mary-Anne Thomas MP Member for Macedon 12589601-HC35-23

“Maybe an off-road shared path could be a better option for everyone, a more separated path could be a safer option. “I feel like a lot of people are asking why it’s being brought in when the road isn’t used a lot. Personally I drive along there once a week and have never seen a cyclist.” Facebook users voiced their frustration over the changes, with one post on the Macedon Ranges Community page getting about 160 comments before commenting was turned off. “Haven’t we been and done this before

and it wasn’t successful. How about fixing and maintaining the roads in general,” was a consensus shared by many in the comments. Another user drew parallels to the recent decision to compulsory acquire private property for the level crossing at Old Calder Highway. “Sounds like the community consultation that Diggers received around their crossing removal. Plans are drawn up first, then reasons given that any other option is not suitable,” they said. Continued page 3

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WHITTLESEA SHOW NEWS H

ANIMAL NURSERY Always a favourite with young show-goers, the Nursery provides an up close and personal experience with a variety of farm-yard babies. Enjoy a photo opportunity with your favourite furred or feathered friend.

YOUNG PERSONS COMPETITION SUNDAY 1PM

AGRICU

INC

ITTLESE

RAL SO

4th & 5th NOVEMBER

visit to the Whittlesea Show promises something for everyone and a great value family-focused weekend of fun. Catering for all ages and interests, a wonderful range of skills, crafts, sports and activities are showcased. CATTLE / POULTRY / SHEEP & ALPACAS / HOBBY LIVESTOCK In keeping with the Agricultural foundations of the Show, there are exhibits across a wide variety of breeds. Special sections for Cattle include Cattle Handling, Beef, Dairy and Calf Rearing classes. Classes covering both wool and breed are held in the Alpaca (Sat) & Sheep (Sun) pavilion, and there is an additional area for miniature breeds of livestock. With a wonderful display of poultry varieties nearby in the Poultry Pavilion, you’re sure to discover some interesting breeds of birds.

FERRET RACING, SNAKE SAFE & ROVING ENTERTAINMENT

ART & PHOTOGRAPHY A showcase of talent from both local artists and from further afield, presenting a variety of art & photography media providing a wonderful opportunity for visitors to view and enjoy the creativity and talent. FARM AND GARDEN Entries include vegetables, fruit, eggs, pasture, hay and crops from hobby and home farms and gardens. The display promotes the importance of local food production and farming.

LIVE MUSIC, FOOD & DRINK

HOMECRAFTS The Homecrafts Pavilion is a centerpiece of the Show, housing the craft, cookery, decorated cakes, needle work as well as horticulture and floral arrangements on display. There will also be a host of demonstrations such as sewing, embroidery, cake decorating; and for the kids, decorated lolliops and biscuits to take home.

Memories in the making

un, Food and Family Activities galore! Join in the Bilby Boot Throw and Fun Dog show and watch the Grand Parade on the Main Areana. Enjoy the excitement of the Showjumping and visit the Trade Exhibits. There will be roving entertainment and exhibitions across the showgrounds, carnival rides, fabulous food and the ever-popular Show Bags.

WOODCHOP With the skill and precision of the entrants on display, the Woodchop competition is a Show favourite. Watching the chips fly with the speed and energy of this sport makes it a feature event of the Show. EDUCATION Entries are received from local Primary, Secondary and Specialist schools across Melboure’s northern fringe, with a dedicated Special Needs section included. Art, collage, creative language, tech, graphics, photography and more create a colourful display in the Education pavilion and provide a wonderful platform for our young entrants to show their talents. FOOD EXPO Food options at the Show are wide and varied and cater for everyone! You won’t go hungry while you enjoy the Show as there is plenty on offer to tempt your tastebuds. At the northern end of the showgrounds, you will find the Expo with a range of local and regional food options to tempt the tastebuds.

FREE STAGE COACH RIDES, STILT DIVAS, APPLE PEELING COMP, MOUNTED GAMES, WOOD CARVING, GRAND PARADE 3PM SAT & SUN!

CHILD TICKETS $5 ONLINE! HORSES The Whittlesea Show has an extensive program of led and ridden, breed and harness events and each year attracts very large entries from across the state and beyond. The showjumping will provide a lot of excitement with the new Jack Eadon Memorial Showjumping Championship across both days. HERITAGE The Heritage display provides a wonderful insight into days gone by. Preservation of agricultural history makes for a fascinating tour, with equipment and vintage machinery on display. There is a working blacksmith demonstration area, providing a close view of the skills involved at the forge.

Whittlesea Showgrounds, Yea Rd. Whittlesea www.whittleseashow.org.au 12634222-KG43-23

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NEWS

Battery dies on Victoria’s EV tax By Zoe Moffatt A Riddells Creek resident and hybrid electric vehicle owner has welcomed the High Court ruling that Victoria’s electric vehicle (EV) tax is unconstitutional, saying the plug should have been pulled on the tax years ago. The High Court handed down the landmark decision on October 18, saying the commonwealth reserves the power to impose such a tax, which was introduced by the state government in 2021. From July 1, 2023, the zero and low emission vehicle (ZLEV) charge imposed a 2.8 cents

per kilometer charge for EV and hydrogen vehicles, and 2.3 cents per kilometer charge for plug-in hybrid electrical vehicles. Speaking about the decision, resident Chris Murphy agreed EV owners should pay for road maintenance, but it was unfair hybrid owners had to pay the ZLEV on top of paying tax through petrol. “The government has weighted their taxes against people going electric. I think we’re in the dark ages,” she said. “They have to make it viable for people to buy electric and hybrid cars. We want to stay green but the government has our hands tied

behind our backs. “Eighty per cent of my driving is petrol, yet I’m paying 2.3 cents per kilometer on top of the tax I pay through buying petrol. “I’m finding that unfair and unjust. The plug should have been pulled on the tax years ago.” Speaking to reporters outside parliament Greens MP Katherine Copsey said the High Court ruling was a win for the climate. “Labor’s electric vehicle tax was always a ridiculous idea,” Ms Copsey said. “It’s great to see that the community has had this win today.

“Transport is Victoria’s fastest growing source of emissions and we need to see a change in direction. “Labor now needs to refund the tax that’s been paid by electric vehicle users, they need to repeal it in parliament and they should go further to correct course.” A statement on the VicRoads website said the government is reviewing the High Court’s decision to understand its implications and how it will be implemented. It said all ZLEV customers will be contacted directly to explain what the decision means for them.

Road frustration builds

Gisborne little athletes Anderson, Blake, Ameliya, Ebonie and Meka getting ready for Banana A-Peel (supplied).

Head start for our youngest athletes Gisborne’s littlest athletes have been given a boost off the starting blocks with more than $4600 in funding from Coles Little Athletics Community Fund. The Little Athletics centre based at Dixon Field, will use the funding for a collapsible hurdles cart, starting blocks, high jump stands and training aids to support its aspiring athletes and parent volunteers. Gisborne Little Athletics president Drew Fisher said the new equipment will help to ensure the club remains sustainable and competitive. “Over the past five years, we have nearly

doubled our memberships of committed athletes at our centre,” he said. “This grant will enable us to buy new equipment to help sustain our membership growth without having to sacrifice the quality of the program we offer.” Dual paralympic medallist Jaryd Clifford said having the right equipment for young athletes is vital in helping them to achieve their best and strive for the next level. “As a former little athlete, I know how important grant programs like [these] are to grassroots centres,” he said.

“Grants like these mean volunteers can focus on helping athletes succeed rather than having to spend their time and energy on fundraising to buy essential equipment.” Gisborne was one of just forty national recipients announced, and coincides with the launch of the Little Athletics Banana A-Peel campaign. Starting on national banana day on October 18, to October 24, Coles will donate 10 cents of every kilogram of cavendish bananas sold to the little athletics community fund to a maximum of $150,000.

From page 1 Star Weekly understands community consultation opportunities occurred face-to-face and online in 2018, 2021 and 2022. The upgrade follows a push from the cycling community, after Gisborne resident Lindsay Smyrk died after being hit by a car on Black Forest Drive in October last year. Following this fatality, community consultation about the draft concepts revealed strong support for the introduction of dedicated bike lanes. Macedon Ranges Cycling Club president Mark Dess said the club welcomes the safety improvements on Black Forest Drive. “The improvements are a long overdue response to the terrible accident record of this road, which has seen multiple fatalities and injuries of motorists as well as cyclists since 2001,” Mr Dess said. “Making Black Forest Drive safer for everyone - cyclists, motorists and pedestrians - will help avoid tragic loss of life and the impact that has on families and the wider community.” Roads and Road Safety Minister Melissa Horne said there was extensive community consultation about Black Forest Drive. “We’re delivering improvements to make Black Forest Drive safer for all road users,” Ms Horne said. “The final scope of the safety improvements has been informed by crash history data, road safety guidelines, community feedback and the surrounding environment.” Works on the safety improvements are expected to start in early 2024. Details: https://regionalroads.vic.gov. au/

Taskforce to crack down on litter and dumping issues By Zoe Moffatt Hume councillor Jim Overend will lead a newly appointed 15 person Hume Clean Taskforce, armed to address litter and illegal dumping related issues. Council voted to accept the nominees at a meeting on Monday, October 9, and extended Cr Overend’s role as the chairperson to October 2024. Sunbury resident Paul Gration has lived in the area for more than 13 years, and said litter is a real problem for the community. “[Litter and illegally dumped rubbish] is a huge issue but not just in Hume,” he said. “The main reason is our population growth

and construction. You can’t just sit back and complain that involvement is needed from everyone at all levels. “I hope that the taskforce can assist and be of benefit to council in reducing and resolving this huge problem for Hume.” Cr Overend said it was great to see there are 15 residents wanting to participate in the taskforce, which represents a cross section of the Hume community. “We’ve been fighting this constantly, trying to stop the ongoing rubbish situation [and] illegally dumped rubbish,” he said. “I’m looking forward to the 15, plus myself, putting our heads together… we can come up with some great ideas to help.”

The taskforce will focus on reducing litter and illegal dumping, raising awareness, increasing uptake of available waste services and achieving council’s waste reduction and resource recovery targets. Members’ areas of interest include climate change, landcare, resource recovery, environmental education and clean up events. Speaking at the meeting, Cr Jarrod Bell thanked everyone who put their hand up to take part and add their voices to the taskforce. “I don’t think there’s a day that goes by that I and I’m sure other councillors don’t hear complaints and grumbles and concerns

from residents regarding dumped rubbish,“ Cr Bell said. “It’s great to see people... being active citizens in their community and stepping up and facing these challenges.“ Council will conduct a further review of the Hume Clean Taskforce in August 2024, and the initial membership period will end in October 2024. Taskforce members include; Sahar Ageed, Gagandeep Mangat, Gary Drake, Nadia Montalto, Tony Hill, Joseph Alderuccio, Colton Nascimento, Mohammad Talha Vahora, Jonathan Collins Leon, Ty Jackson, Ibne Farabi, Joanne Williams, Sarah Flegg and Jan Dodemaide.

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Top of the class finalist By Zoe Moffatt Sunbury and Macedon Ranges Specialist School teacher Andrew Vella is reaching new heights, after being named a finalist in the Victorian Education Excellence Awards. The awards recognise teachers, principals, business managers, support staff and schools for the valuable work they do to improve schools and help students achieve their best. Mr Vella is a finalist for the outstanding secondary teacher award, and is celebrated for his work as the wellbeing learning specialist, creating a positive and respectful learning environment. “To be honest [I feel] pretty humbled, you just go around and do your job to the best you can,” he said. “The whole process has been really nice to stop and reflect. [I’m] really excited, being noticed for the way we differentiate the learning and the way we teach students in a one to one manner. “One-to-one teaching is really important, and understanding that micro teaching and the macro impact that it can have over time, that has been really reflective.” Mr Vella, who has been teaching in special education since 2001, said this way of teaching connects him more with the students and the community. “I think for me it’s all about that rapport, anyone in life is going to learn from or listen to someone they find they connect with. “When we know what gets students focused and what motivates them we can get them more engaged and that elevates their learning. “That really motivates me, because I know they’ll take those skills and use them across their life.” In leading curriculum development, Mr Vella has embedded the department’s

Sunbury and Macedon Ranges Specialist School teacher Andrew Vella is a finalist for the outstanding secondary teacher award. (Ljubica Vrankovic)

resilience, rights and respectful relationships learning materials into the content and experience of students’ learning. Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas said kids in Macedon are getting the direct benefits. “Inspirational teachers and schools [are]

creating meaningful learning opportunities to help our students shine,” she said. Professional learning grants of $20,000 are available for each individual award and $25,000 for each team award. Winners will be announced at an awards ceremony on Friday, October 27.

NEWS

Heritage sites protected Melton council has identified five new sites, including one in Diggers Rest, as important to the area’s heritage and will add them to the Heritage Overlay to protect them from demolition. The five new heritage-listed sites are The Oaks Homestead in Kurunjang, the Army Housing Estate and Soldier Settlement Housing in Diggers Rest, Minns Road Timber Bridge over Toolern Creek in Kurunjang and Hillview House in Toolern Vale. The City of Melton Heritage Assessment Project 2020-21 assessed 13 places to determine whether they warrant protection and therefore inclusion in the Heritage Overlay within the Melton Planning Scheme. The 13 places assessed were identified in the Shire of Melton Heritage Study 2007 as ‘Conservation Desirable’ places for further investigation. Of the 13 places assessed, the report found that five places met the threshold for local significance and should be protected via inclusion in the Schedule to the Heritage Overlay within the Melton Planning Scheme. A council document said local councils play an important role in preserving local history by carrying out heritage studies and permanently protecting heritage through the Planning Scheme. Under the Planning & Environment Act. “All Planning Schemes in Victoria must act to ‘conserve and enhance those buildings, areas or other places which are of scientific, aesthetic, architectural or historical interest, or otherwise of special cultural value’,” it said.

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

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6 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 24 October, 2023

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NEWS

Bandanas helping young people By Zoe Moffatt At the end of the week people from around the country will fold a 55 centimetre by 55 centimetre piece of fabric to wear as a bandana. It’s a tradition that started 29 years ago to raise vital money for not-for-profit organisation Canteen to support young people aged 12 to 25 years old who are impacted by cancer. For Sunbury resident and Bandana Day ambassador Jupiter Moody McIntyre, it’s a cause close to their heart after their dad died from terminal brain cancer in December 2018. “When I was 17, just before I was going to start year 12, my dad was diagnosed with… an aggressive and terminal form of brain cancer,” Jupiter said. “Originally I dropped out of school so I could stay home full time and care for him, and eventually I went back part time for a little bit. But it threw my whole year 12 into the air. “I lost pretty much all of my friends purely because I wasn’t able to keep up with the social commitments and see them as often.” During this time Jupiter said it was very hard to adjust to having a dad who was sick, and the move to a carer’s role. “It was very hard because of where the tumour and cancer was located… a lot of things shifted in him really quickly. His whole personality kind of changed. “One of the things that shocked me the most was… his tone of voice changed. There were very few moments during the year [when] it sounded like my dad who raised me. “It was a really long and a really hard year for all of us… we were just so emotionally and physically exhausted.”

Canteen became Jupiter Moody McIntyre’s safe space when her dad died from brain cancer (Damjan Janevski). 366667_03

After Jupiter’s dad died, they finished year 12 the following year and went on to complete a Bachelor of Environment and Society. Jupiter reached out to Canteen for support, and attended a camp for young people impacted by grief and loss in 2019. Through Canteen’s ’CanQueer’ program Jupiter was able to explore a world of acceptance and discovered their identity was non-binary. “Obviously it’s something I’d been my whole

life, but it’s never something I had the language or the knowledge of myself to do,” Jupiter said. “I remember when dad was sick and the year after… these thoughts started popping up and I was just kind of pushing them down because I was dealing with so much. “Canteen has been really great, it was actually partly due to a Canteen event that I even started to address it. “I remember being in that environment [and] being really comfortable and happy

there [which] gave me that confidence to explore and do my own research and think about myself in that way. “The [CanQueer program] is truly one of my favourite things. I’ve been to every single one since it started, which is a very big thing I’m proud about in that space.” This Bandana Day you can show your support through donating, cutting, colouring or covering your hair with a Canteen bandana. Details: https://www.bandannaday.org.au/

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Gathering at the Big Blue Table October marks Mental Health Month across Australia. Throughout the month, Australians are encouraged to gather around the table and talk about mental health. Hannah Hammoud discovers more about Beyond Blue’s ‘Big Blue Table’ initiative.

early half of the people living in Australia will face a mental health condition in their lifetime. Across the nation, Beyond Blue is encouraging everyone to share a meal and start a conversation about mental health to support those impacted by anxiety, depression and suicide. Big Blue Table fundraising events will take place throughout October – Mental Health Month – to help fight the stigma surrounding mental health, one meal at a time. Beyond Blue lead clinical advisor Dr Grant Blashki said the best piece of advice he can give to people participating in the Big Blue Table, is to remember that you don’t need to have all the answers. “Never underestimate the value of just listening,” he said. “You don’t need any special qualification to do that. People just want the opportunity to share their concerns or share their stories. It’s tempting sometimes when people start talking about their own issues, to interrupt them and jump in with your own stories, but if you can just sit back a bit and just listen, that’s often very valuable. “Remember, you don’t have to be a psychologist. That’s something that some people can find a little bit daunting. All it is, is a good conversation, an open chat, and an opportunity to link people with support - but you don’t need to have all the answers. “One of the exciting things about the Big Blue Table is that human beings have for thousands of years sat around for a meal, and shared their feelings together. It’s one of the great ways to make people feel relaxed, and not rushed and it’s really part of our DNA to sit around together and talk about things. Dr Blashki said there has been a big change in the national conversation surrounding mental health, especially amongst young Australians, a development he describes as ‘beautiful’. “The conversation is much less loaded than it used to be. People are beginning to talk about mental health in the same way they might speak about their physical health, it has become very open,” he said. Working as a GP, Dr Blashki said there has been a ‘cascade’ of challenging events that have happened in the past few years, from the COVID-19 pandemic, extreme weather events and the current cost of living pressures which have seen mental health front and centre for many Australians. “Even though people are much more comfortable talking about mental health issues now, the reality is that many people don’t go and get help,” he said. “About one third of people don’t go and get help, and there’s different reasons for that. Some people might think their issues aren’t serious enough, or that they should work it out themselves, and some people are also worried about the costs of mental health services. These sorts of barriers are still very much there.” “Our message is for people to put up their hand early, get some help and like any sort of health condition, the earlier you get onto it the better. “There is a lot going on in the world at the moment, and it’s easy to feel a bit overwhelmed with the avalanche of information out there. People should feel reassured and important to remember that there’s a lot of good help out there. Whether it be through a GP, mental health professionals, Beyond Blue or other mental health organisations.” Following the success of last year’s inaugural event, where more than $570,000 was raised, Beyond Blue is encouraging people to gather around the Big Blue Table again in 2023. Organising a lunch with co-workers, a group picnic in the park or inviting friends for dinner and creating a safe space where

Beyond Blue says hosting a meal with your guests can help create a safe space where everyone feels comfortable talking about mental health. (Supplied)

“One of the exciting things about the Big Blue Table is that human beings have for thousands of years sat around for a meal, and shared their feelings together.” - Dr Grant Blashki people can express how they truly feel can be life changing. Over in the west, the team at Barry Plant Werribee are looking to top their fundraising effort for this year’s Big Blue Table, after raising more than $12,000 in 2022. One of the lead organisers, Martin Nardo said the occasion is a chance to get the community together and raise money for a ‘good cause’. Mr Nardo said he first heard of the Big Blue Table on the radio, and wanted to do something for the local community. “In the community alone we had seen a number of local residents fall into depression in the last two years with the added pressure of the pandemic. It was just an opportunity to spread awareness and give an opportunity to people who might have been struggling during that time,” he said. Mr Nardo is encouraging locals to grab a ticket for this year’s event that will be hosted at the Sporting Globe in Werribee on Friday, October 27, offering live music, finger food, and best of all, a chance to chat and meet others in the community. “We are hoping to beat last year’s fundraising amount, and everything goes directly to Beyond Blue. It’s a good cause for us all to get together and bring the community together,” he said. Tickets to the event are $100. For those looking to attend, contact the team at Barry Plant Werribee. Big Blue Table events can take place for any meal, including brunch or afternoon tea, and in any setting such as at home, the workplace or local sporting club. People who register early will receive a free host kit, which includes a guide, table

8 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 24 October, 2023

Last year the Wyndham community came together to raise more than $12,000. (Supplied)

Beyond Blue is calling on Australians to bring their support to the table this Mental Health Month. (Supplied)

decorations and conversation starters designed to get the discussion going. Hosts are also provided with tips and tricks, including budget friendly hacks, to create a tasty, cost

effective and stress-free event. To find out more about the initiative and register to host your Big Blue Table event, visit bigbluetable.com.au.

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NEWS

Hume council election shakeup By Hannah Hammoud The structure of Hume council’s wards will soon be changed, with a preliminary report due to be released on November 1, following an electoral structure review. The review follows on from requirements introduced by the Local Government Act 2020 which detailed several changes, including that all metropolitan, interface and regional city councils must now have single-councillor ward electoral structures. Hume council must transition to a single councillor ward structure prior to the 2024 council elections.

Council chief executive Sheena Frost said council is yet to receive any detailed information on the proposed review. “We look forward to this detailed information… being issued, and once reviewed council will decide whether they would like to submit a formal submission to the Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC),” she said. Thirty-nine Victorian local councils are in the process of undergoing these reviews, including nearby Whittlesea, Melton, Merri-bek, Brimbank and Moonee Valley councils. The reviews have been conducted by two electoral representation advisory panels

appointed by the Local Government Minister Melissa Horne to make a recommendation to the minister on electoral structures. The panels are considering the appropriate number of councillors and wards for each council, the location of ward boundaries, and ward names. To help explain the review process and answer any questions, the VEC is hosting an online public information session at 12pm on Monday, October 30, and 6pm on Tuesday, October 31. The preliminary report response submission period opens on Wednesday, November 1, and will close at 5pm, on Wednesday, November 22. People interested in making a response

submission to the preliminary report can map the ward boundaries for their proposed electoral structure online using the public submission tool available on the VEC website as part of their submission. At the end of the review, the panel will make a final recommendation to the Local Government Minister. It is then up to the minister to review the recommendation and decide what is best for Hume council. Once the minister has made her decision, any changes will apply at the next local council elections. The final report will be provided to Ms Horne on December 13. Details: https://shorturl.at/hltu2

Kitchen sparks a flurry of delicious creativity Sunbury disability and services support provider Distinctive Options (DO) has celebrated its newly installed professional kitchen with a grand opening, accompanied with an array of tasty treats. The opening was held on October 17, with participants and their family members, staff, coordinators and Distinctive Options chief executive Ernie Metcalf in attendance. Assistant coordinator Hannah Chalkerspoke about the exciting plans for the new kitchen which include an internal canteen and more cooking programs. “We had been previously hiring a kitchen… but having a large kitchen in our own building allows us to get more creative with our programs and open up new opportunities,” she said. “We will continue to support the Master Chef participants to develop skills to prepare food and work in a commercial kitchen.

Master Chef participants Chelsea and Blake with chef Zak Obeid at Distinctive Options new kitchen opening (Damjan Janevski). 366378_01

“The kitchen will be available for our other cooking programs to use at a later date.” The day was filled with tasty treats from

the Master Chef team, including roast beef with horseradish cream canapes, honey mustard chicken sausage rolls, New York

cheesecake and haloumi and vegetable skewers with basil pesto. Ms Chalkersaid the team will spend a few weeks learning recipes and settling into the new kitchen before opening up as an internal canteen once a week. “There will be a rotating menu which features a grilled chicken or beef burger, a chicken caesar salad, a ranch chicken salad and wedges. “We have options for people with swallowing difficulties and gluten-free and dairy-free options. We also look forward to using the kitchen and adjacent courtyard for fundraisers where we can invite community members to attend.” The project was partly funded by Living Local Fund community grants, which Ms Chalker said DO is very appreciative of. Zoe Moffatt

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Tuesday, 24 October, 2023 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 9

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Sunbury theft Sunbury police are appealing for information following a theft from a store in Sunbury on the September 23, 2023. Police have released CCTV images of a male they believe may be able to assist them with their enquiries. Anyone with information should contact either Sunbury Police Station on 9744 8111 or via Crime Stoppers.

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Hesket-Kerrie and Newham brigades at the new VEMTC Central Highlands training ground. (supplied)

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Brigades work together

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The Hesket-Kerrie and Newham CFA brigades recently joined forces to use the new training ground VEMTC Central Highlands ahead of summer. As the first brigades from district two to use the ground, members ran through a motor vehicle accident and structure and smoke house props and drills, to provide insight into what they can expect. Hesket-Kerrie and Newham work together in several ways, including fundraising, supporting events at Hanging Rock, and community days at each other’s stations. They realise a connected community is a more resilient one. Newham Fire Brigade captain Bryan Hornbuckle said it’s about covering each other’s backs. “It’s not about empire building, it’s about community risk and knowing how best to cover each other’s backs,” he said. Located in the Macedon Ranges, both brigades know that planning and training together is important because emergencies

don’t respect brigade boundaries. They look after an area with a mixture of farms and bush properties, with parts of the Cobaw State Forest to the north, Macedon State Forest to the south and Hanging Rock in between. The two small brigades respond together to incidents in each other’s communities, surrounding brigades’ areas, as well as joining forces to form strike teams and composite crews for fire and other emergencies. Sharing these experiences through joint training sessions helps identify best practice, areas for improvement, and fosters camaraderie. Training has included mobile props, scenario drills, burns-offs and members sharing knowledge such as air support expertise. The two brigades have also shared resources including crews and vehicles, and Hesket-Kerrie is now fundraising for a new medium tanker. Details: https://www.facebook.com/ HesketKerrie

The Kyneton Football Netball Club is seeking individuals to join a junior football sub-committee led by Emily Dellios. The committee will assist in contributing to the growth and success of the junior football program. President Hayden Evans said they are stoked to have Emily lead the sub-committee. “The sub-committee will be responsible for overseeing aspects of our junior football activities, including team management, coaching, player recruitment, events, socials and ensuring the overall welfare and development of our players,” he said. Details: manager@kynetonfnc.com

Empowering communities Hume council has announced the six successful projects for the youth-led empowering communities grant. The initiatives will address local issues that impact perceptions of safety and crime prevention. They include a short film and a podcast, among others. FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Sunbury & Macedon Ranges Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Gisborne Futures Have Your Say

Structure Plan The structure plan includes:

Be a part of Gisborne’s future. The structure plan will guide Gisborne’s development over the next 30 years. This is an important time for shaping the future of the town. We have considered your values and views about how Gisborne and New Gisborne could change into the future, now have your say again and help us finalise this long term vision. View the plans and stay updated

mrsc.vic.gov.au/yoursay or phone 5422 0333.

• a vision for a vibrant and sustainable community in New Gisborne with a town centre and community hub that is set against the backdrop of the Macedon Ranges • a protected settlement boundary that will limit outward growth and protect the environmental and rural qualities of the surrounding landscape • opportunities for diverse and inclusive housing that is accessible for a range of ages, household structures and affordability levels and gives essential workers places to live close to where they work • an expanded business park with opportunities for local jobs and business growth • recognition of cultural and post-contact heritage

• a movement strategy that encourages a mode shift towards more sustainable transport options through a safer and better connected walking and cycling network and more efficient public transport.

Submissions close Monday 13 November 2023 10 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 24 October, 2023

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• protection and enhancement of landscapes, open space, trees, waterways and environmental values

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Countback post resignation Macedon Ranges council South Ward vacancy will soon be filled with a countback to be held online at 10am on Monday, November 13.

Loddon Murray Community Leadership Program participants at the Victorian Emergency Management Institute (supplied).

Lead through challenges Community leaders from across the Loddon Murray region gathered in Macedon in early October to learn how to lead their communities during changing times. Loddon Murray Community Leadership Program participants gathered at the Victorian Emergency Management Institute (VEMI) to explore the Macedon area and learn from local leaders. LEAD Loddon Murray executive officer Brett Thompson said the program is renowned for developing future leaders. “[The] diverse program allows participants to learn about themselves, their community and the challenges our region faces,” Mr Thompson said. “Thanks to a financial contribution from the Macedon Ranges Community Enterprise and the Lancefield and Romsey Community Bank,

we were able to develop a program centered on the VEMI conference and event centre. “[We could use] this fantastic venue as a base to travel throughout the area and meet some of the region’s great community leaders.” The three day program included highlights such as presentations regarding emergency management within the Macedon Ranges and managing conflict, as well as visits to Romsey, Lancefield and Kyneton. Participants heard from local community leaders who shared experiences influencing change in community through projects and services. Romsey resident and participant Caitlin Dinning said it was wonderful to welcome the group to the Macedon Ranges. “The weekend was inspiring, showcasing many local community groups and members,”

Ms Dinning said. “The presenters were engaging and thought provoking, and the opportunity to connect and network with local community leaders was invaluable.” Romsey Community House manager Michele Balthazar also participated in the program and said being able to stay at a facility like VEMI epitomises living in Macedon Ranges. “Its beautiful surroundings provided an amazing training facility for our speakers, and a shared space for participants to connect and bond,” she said. Applications for the 2024 program are now open, with residents wanting to become better community leaders encouraged to apply. Details: www.leadlm.org.au/lmclp.

The countback follows the resignation of councillor Anne Moore on October 4, due to health and family reasons. 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. The Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC) will hold a countback of all formal votes from the 2020 election to fill the vacancy. Votes will be redistributed to candidates who were unsuccessful in 2020, but are still eligible to be elected. It is based on the proportional representation method of counting, which means candidates must achieve a proportion of votes known as a quota. Election manager Kathy Georgiou said the candidate who gets the quota will be elected. “If no candidate reaches the quota, the candidate with the highest number of countback votes will be elected,” she said. The new councillor will join existing South Ward Cr Rob Guthrie, who was elected first in the 2020 election, and Cr Dominic Bonanno, who was elected second. A link to join the countback will be available from 9.30am on November 13, and the results will also be published online. Details: vec.vic.gov.au

Spooky Sunbury hunt riddles to solve. There will be a competition to ‘design the coolest haunted house,’ where residents will post a picture to the private page or hand it in to one of the nominated local businesses. For all the Sunbury writers, there will be a ‘best haunted house story or poem’ competition, where residents will post them to the private page or hand in to a local business. Prizes will be on offer for the winners and each business will have a little treat for residents to collect. Mr McDonald, who dressed up as King from Atlantis at his last dress up party, said he is still finalising the businesses and encouraged more to get involved. “My outfit [for halloween] is still being prepared but I’ll be dressing up,” he said. “The reception [to the hunt] has been brilliant. I’ve been walking into business and encouraged anyone else interested to reach out.” Zoe Moffatt

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Sunbury residents, businesses and groups are invited to participate in the upcoming halloween community hunt this spooky season. Silver Service Real Estate agent representative Alister McDonald is organising the hunt, which will include a bewitching lineup of activities for all ages. Mr McDonald said he started selling homes in Sunbury about a month ago, and wants to get involved with the community. “I grew up in Melbourne and was always involved in the community… so my partner and I had the idea to do a halloween hunt in Sunbury. “I want to get to know people, primarily it’s about partnering with businesses and promoting them [to] build that business community relationship, and to bring the community together.” The hunt will include a ‘riddle me this’ competition where nominated businesses have a hidden pumpkin bowl with a list of

Real estate agent Alister McDonald is hosting the halloween hunt (supplied). Tuesday, 24 October, 2023 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 11

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This Girl Can Week aims to increase physical activity among Victorian women (VicHealth).

The launch included drills, speeches and new activities (VicHealth).

Mums show what they can do By Zoe Moffatt Kyneton District Soccer Club has celebrated the launch of its introductory soccer program, GO Soccer Mums, in the midst of VicHealth’s This Girl Can Week. About 15 participants attended the event in mid-October to practise drills, listen to speeches and try new activities to find the joy in movement. GO Soccer Mums program facilitator Lenka Thompson said the launch was a brilliant day, filled with laughs and inspiration drawn from the recent FIFA Women’s World Cup. “It’s just a bunch of local women who have no or very little soccer experience getting together to have a launch, move their body and learn some soccer skills along the way,” Ms Thompson said. “Mentally it’s great for mums to have an hour away from making decisions, to relax and know that the people around them are in the same boat. It’s like a womanhood. “Many of the mums were saying at the launch, they were so inspired by the Matildas, and their daughters who play soccer. “It’s so inspiring to see women’s sport getting the credit it deserves.” Ms Thompson said the free eight week program runs each Thursday from 5pm to 6pm at the Kyneton showgrounds, and anyone can get involved at any time. The launch coincided with a week of fun, free or low-cost activities hosted by gyms and sports clubs across the state to get women and girls involved from October 9 to 15. Running for its sixth year in Victoria, the campaign was initially launched by the English Sports Council and VicHealth is the first organisation to licence the campaign from Sport England. It aims to increase physical activity among Victorian women through challenging traditional gender roles and stereotypes in sport and by celebrating women. VicHealth’s head of This Girl Can Victoria Rebecca Ahern said it is about creating more opportunities for women to enjoy movement amongst the busyness of life. “This Girl Can is an uplifting, energetic and empowering campaign which speaks directly to everyday women juggling work, family and trying to find time for self-care,” Ms Ahern said. “We know how tricky it can be for women – especially mums – to prioritise their own physical activity while caring for others. “Five minutes is better than no minutes, whether it’s chasing the kids around the park or walking around the block. “There’s no judgement if you haven’t exercised in a while or ever. All that matters is that you give it a go and find what feels good for you.”

GO Soccer Mums launched in mid-October (VicHealth).

This Girl Can Week ran for its sixth year in Victoria (VicHealth).

GO Soccer Mums is an introductory soccer program (VicHealth).

The week included fun, free or low-cost activities (VicHealth).

12 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 24 October, 2023

Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas practising soccer drills for This Girl Can Week (VicHealth).

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Sculpture’s take Hanging Rock By Zoe Moffatt Residents from across Victoria are encouraged to stroll through the grounds at Hanging Rock Winery for its sixth annual free sculpture exhibition. The exhibition, Art in the Vines, hosts a range of breathtaking artwork that harmoniously interact with the scenic surroundings. It opened on October 14, with a long lunch and award ceremony, and will run through to April 30, 2024. Curator Malcolm Thomson sought sculptures from some of Australia’s best-known artists alongside some very exciting up-andcoming artists. “We try to make a show that covers every form of sculpture you can think of,” Mr Thomson said. “It’s great because people get up there to see the sculptures… [and] enjoy the [winery] and the atmosphere with the view of hanging rock. “The art gives the opportunity for people to wander around, view the works and have an opinion about them.” Mr Thomson encouraged everyone to think about how artists entertain people and said it’s important to show support. “We tend to forget artists, they are very generous. When you want to raise money for something people often go to artists,” he said. “They have something that is popular to sell and that people want… in the arts people aren’t supported as much. “In most cases I find that most people are very supportive... They love the exhibition and feel it ties in well with the winery.” Over the years the exhibition has included works of talented sculptors such as Tim Jones, Geoffrey Barlett, Jock Clutterbuck, Brigit Hell-

The opening day included a long lunch. (supplied/ Jacqui Henshaw)

The Bower Girl by Kerry Cannon. (supplied/ Jacqui Henshaw).

The exhibition opened on October 14. (supplied/ Jacqui Henshaw)

Kerry Cannon won the inaugural Hanging Rock Sculpture Award. (supplied/ Jacqui Henshaw)

er, Anton Hasell, Simon Normand, and international artists, Andreas Buisman and Kerry Canon. Former Monash University senior sculpture lecturer Dr Dan Wollmering judged the inaugural Hanging Rock Sculpture Award

at the opening of the exhibition, presenting Kerry Cannon with the title. Mr Cannon’s sculpture, The Bower Girl, was made with wood, string and wax cast in bronze, to make up two sides of the bower and

a sleeping nude girl. The exhibition is open to the general public seven days a week from 10am to 5pm and is located at 88 Jim Road, Newham, Victoria. Details: hangingrock.com.au

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Tuesday, 24 October, 2023 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 13

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Call to return to original timeline By Liam McNally Diggers Rest advocacy group DREAM has launched a petition seeking public support to close the Old Calder Highway level crossing in 2025, so that the state government has more time to reconsider routes for the proposed bridge that will replace it. The government announced in September the path for the bridge that will replace the level crossing at Old Calder Highway - the road will be diverted west over the rail line south of Stan Payne Reserve, before turning north to connect with Diggers Rest-Coimadai Road, between Pepper Close and Welcome Road. The route has been met with concern from a number of Diggers Rest residents due to the

current proposed path including compulsory acquisition of private property, increased noise and traffic flow in a growing area. The bridge was originally scheduled for completion in 2026, but has been fast tracked for a 2025 delivery. DREAM would like to see the government return to the original schedule so that other routes may be considered, and have launched a petition to garner public support for the crossing closing for 12 months and having a detour in place to allow for this. Group member John Verdon said if the bridge goes ahead in its current form the community has grave concerns over the safety and division it is likely to create in the suburb. “To ensure the best long term outcome for the safety of our residents we want to provide

an opportunity for the government to have its initial extended deadline for completion of the road bridge to be available,“ he said. “Given the need to have the city loop and fast trains operational this will require the crossing to be closed in 2025. We seek to petition support to have the crossing closed in 2025 and the completion of the proposed road bridge complete as per the initial deadline in 2026. “The intention would then be to pursue what other reasonable compromises can be made to get a safer and more long term traffic solution in place for our community. This might include extending the road bridge a further 220 metres through other land parcels that required more investigation prior to a solution being put up as viable.”

The petition had 212 signatures at the time of writing. An LXRP spokesperson said the authority has removed 72 level crossings across Melbourne. “As we do with every project, we always consider the full range of solutions and have found that a road bridge is the best solution to remove both Diggers Rest level crossings,“ they said. “This provides safer access for all road users, while minimising disruption to the local community and impacts on essential services. “We have just four more level crossings to make the Sunbury Line level crossing free to prepare for the Metro Tunnel opening in 2025, when we’ll be able to provide more trains more often for people living in Melbourne’s north.“

Record grant applications

Sunbury Family History and Heritage Society treasurer Trevor Dunn with the new historical street sign on Vaughan Street, Sunbury. (Damjan Janevski) 317528_01

A sign of the past: History to the fore Street signs around Hume may soon include historical information, following the success of the Historical Street Signage Project in Sunbury. At a council meeting on Monday, October 9, councillors voted to reinvestigate the possibility of adding a short sentence to street signs by contacting historical groups in the municipality. Speaking to the motion, Cr Naim Kurt said he was pleased to witness the expansion of the very successful street signage project. “This project, which began in Sunbury, will look to extend to other historical areas of Hume, celebrating our community’s rich heritage,” he said.

“I’ve always been a strong advocate for heritage protection, and history recognition. I’m hoping through the expansion of this project tonight we can see the recognition of the history of many streets in our municipality. “Through this project we will finally be able to recognise our city’s strong connection as well with the 1956 Olympics with many streets… [named] after Olympic champions.” There will be a six week community consultation period for residents, and historical and heritage associations to make suggestions for streets on which historical street signs could be installed. The historical groups contacted may include the Craigieburn Historical Interest Group, the

Broadmeadows Historical Society and the Friends of Will Will Rook Pioneer Cemetery. Cr Kurt said suggestions for signs will include proposed wording and reference information, while maintaining existing design and verification times will depend on suggestion numbers. “This project emphasises inclusivity with agenda impact assessment and a focus on cultural diversity,” he said. “I can say that written and verbal responses expressing an interest in participating in the project have been received from all the above groups.”

Hume council has received a record breaking 168 applications for its 2024 Community Grants Program. At a council meeting on October 9, council endorsed the distribution of $492,104 to 161 applicants as part of round one. Speaking to the motion, Councillor Chris Hollow recognised the applicant numbers as a “fantastic” achievement. “Our community grants program received a record breaking 168 applications, including 36 groups who have not applied to annual grants before,” he said. “That’s a fantastic achievement and well done to those groups who did get involved this year. Of these applicants [149] are approved for funding, a further 12 groups have multi year funding. “[The grant injections assist] community led solutions to issues, create community connections and provide opportunities to members of the community to participate in the cultural life of Hume.” Cr Hollow said some of the successful applicants include Toy Libraries Australia, Engage Pasefika, CareWorks SunRanges and Westmeadows Football Club. “Over the next three years [Toy Libraries Australia] will establish six new free toy lending libraries across Hume for children and families from migrant and refugee backgrounds. “Engage Pasefika [will] run community sports inspired by the recent Pacific Games.” Of the 16 ineligible applications, only one was deemed ineligible based on criteria, and 15 were withdrawn by applicants as they had applied under multiple categories. Zoe Moffatt

Zoe Moffatt

Non-fatal strangulation to become stand-alone offence Victorians experiencing family violence will have more protection with the creation of new stand-alone non-fatal strangulation offences. The state government introduced the Crimes Amendment (Non-fatal Strangulation) Bill 2023 into Parliament in response to advocacy and research that shows someone who survives non-fatal strangulation by a current or former partner is seven times more likely to be seriously injured or murdered by that partner. The reforms will create two offences. First, an offence of intentional non-fatal

strangulation, which does not require proof of injury will carry a maximum five-year prison term. A second more serious offence of non-fatal strangulation where a perpetrator intentionally causes injury, will be created with a maximum penalty of 10 years. A consent defence will be available for the five-year offence. In the context of sexual activity, this will be an affirmative consent defence to ensure that the same rigorous, victim-centred consent standards that apply in sexual offences also apply to sexual non-fatal strangulation.

14 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 24 October, 2023

This will provide protection for people who have engaged in genuinely consensual non-fatal strangulation during sexual activity and no intentional injury has occurred. These reforms have been developed to better protect victim-survivors, including those who may not sustain any visible injuries, and to hold perpetrators to account who use strangulation to exert power and control over their family member. Establishing non-fatal strangulation as a standalone offence provides a clear indication to the Victorian community of the severity of

this conduct in family violence contexts. Attorney-General Jaclyn Symes said non-fatal strangulation is rarely an isolated event. “Instead it often reveals an ongoing and escalating pattern of coercive and controlling behaviour – especially when it occurs in family violence circumstances,” she said. “We’ve listened to the concerns of those families affected by these acts of violence and the Bill will make this behaviour clear for what it is – controlling, dangerous and unacceptable.”

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MY PLACE Life long Sunbury resident and OMO Ultimate Footy Club Legends competition nominee Matt Werner tells Zoe Moffatt about his connection to Sunbury, and journey with the Sunbury Lions Football Netball Club. Tell us a bit about yourself and what you do? I am 52 years old. I’m married to my wife Cathy, and we have two kids named Thomas, 23, and Hannah, 20. I work for VicTrack looking after the communication network for both MTM and V/Line, and I’m vice president of the Sunbury Lions Football Netball Club (SLFNC). I have been involved with the SLFNC in some capacity for years as a player, committee, and support-volunteer. What’s your connection to Sunbury? I’ve lived in Sunbury for 51 years. My Grandmother grew up on a farm between Sunbury and Riddell and her family name is still around the area-Dillon. My parents, Ian and Sue, still live in the same house that we moved into back in December 1972. What do you like about where you live? I like the fact that Sunbury still has that country feel to it, you can walk down to O’Shanassy Street and take your pick from the various cafes and get a nice meal, drink or coffee. Sunbury may be getting bigger but there are still many familiar names and faces from way back. What, if anything, would you change about where you live? I don’t think I’d change anything about where I live. Where is your favourite local place to spend time? For me I can’t go past the Sunbury Social Club (SLFNC Social Club) for a cold beer and plenty of banter-especially during football season, a barbecue at home with family and friends Tell us something people would be surprised to know about you? I’m pretty good at music and sporting trivia.

Vice president of Sunbury Football Club Matt Werner. (Damjan Janevski) 358328_01

Tell us about your time with the Sunbury Lions Football Club? The Sunbury Lions Football club has been a massive part of my life. It meant a lot to me that my club nominated me for the OMO Ultimate Footy Club Legends competition. I’m honoured to be among many other local cub members across Australia that enjoy

doing their part for their communities. My time at the club starts back to when my Dad would take me and my sister along to Clarke oval back in the early 70s, we had a neighbour who played-Henry Townsing who was a young ruckman and played in a few premierships for the SLFNC. We used to venture up to Lancefield to watch the

finals and I’ve been lucky to watch and play in premierships since I first started playing under 9s in 1980. As a club we are lucky to have a team of very loyal members who are always willing to help out with any role that’s required- from a clean-up, painting, barbecues, working bees. That’s not including game day.

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Tuesday, 24 October, 2023 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 15

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Aussie pride on show Macedon Ranges council recently welcomed 29 new citizens at a Kyneton Town Hall citizenship ceremony, gifting them with a native plant and an ‘Aussie Pride Badge’. Proudly wearing the badge combining the Australian flag and the Golden Wattle, new citizen Steven Blackburn said he moved from Canada, and has lived in the Macedon Ranges for almost three years. “Australia generally is fantastic, it’s just amazing,” he said, “it feels a lot like Canada but with a much preferable climate. “The Macedon Ranges is spectacular, it’s such a beautiful region. It has fabulous towns, with the mountains and vineyards and outdoor activities, I think everyone should know about. “The citizenship ceremony was also incredibly charming, and [felt] warm and familiar.” Mr Blackburn, who moved with his husband Tino Corsetti, said he loves the warmth and sunshine, and while he hasn’t acquired a taste for vegemite yet, the Macedon Ranges feels like home. “We’ve found the closest thing to paradise for us, we’ll absolutely stay, we’ll love it, it feels like home. “One thing I love about Australian food is the approach to Christmas dinner, it’s very different to Canada. “However, vegemite I think is an acquired taste, and one that I am yet to acquire.” Other new citizens at the ceremony came from Canada, Philippines, Ireland, New Zealand, Thailand, Poland, United States, Vietnam, Bermuda, Netherlands, United Kingdom, Czech Republic and Belgium. The night was complete with a performance by the Kyneton Municipal Band, and many councillors were present to welcome the new citizens. Zoe Moffatt

Scholarships aid transition Fifty-six students from around Hume will receive a $1000 scholarship from council, to help transition from primary to secondary school. At a council meeting on October 9, councillors voted to approve awarding $56,000 to the nominated secondary schools, which will assist students with the cost of uniforms, textbooks, technology, school fees and excursions. Deputy mayor Karen Sherry said the scholarship program gives a leg up to some students and families. “One of the important functions of council is supporting the people in our community in their quest for further education, but also in access in equity,” she said. “Some of these small grants that we make may not seem like a lot to us, but to many families they are very important. “It gives… some reward and recognition for their further educational endeavours. They actually mean a lot in terms of being able to support families and provide them with some additional comfort and wellbeing.” Every primary school in Hume was notified of the scholarship program in August and were invited to nominate a year 6 student. The program acknowledges and rewards achievement, positive citizenship qualities and promotes pride in all Hume primary and secondary schools. The awards ceremony will be held at the Craigieburn Global Learning Centre on Wednesday, November 15, 2023. Zoe Moffatt

Macedon Ranges new citizen Steven Blackburn with Mayor Annette Death. (supplied)

Things to do

TODAY

kidswest 12483328-DL08-21

16 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 24 October, 2023

FEATURING ... GEMLIFE WOODEND

Advertising feature

Author David Crockett.

David Crockett has a novel fascination with fiction They say everyone has a book in them and David Crockett from GemLife Woodend agrees. The Vietnam veteran and retired dentist said the COVID lockdowns gave him the time he needed to finally put fingers to keyboard. However, the first manuscript David started was not the first he finished. “I wasn’t happy with where that was going, so I shelved it for a number of years,” he said. “I wrote and finished a series of crime stories first.” Thirty Days Has September, A Week is a Long

Time, and A Dish Best Served Cold are centred on the fictional detective chief inspector Brian Cochran. “He turned out to be a fascinating character to write,” said David. “The first story wasn’t going to be about him particularly, but the more I wrote, the more central he became. I made him a Vietnam veteran like me, and that informs how he goes about putting the pieces together and solves the cases. David said he believes years of experience helps authors craft a better story. “I’m 80 now so I was able to draw on 65 years

of being an adult, which makes a big difference to how you plot and develop the characters,” he said. Once those stories were complete, David returned to his first tale – a piece of speculative fiction called Memory. “It started from the idea that every memory from every point in history is encoded in our DNA,” he said. “What if ancient memories were preserved and retrievable? In Memory, the DNA of a young woman carries a coded message of an ancient talisman of unimaginable power.”

David’s other book is Destiny, which he describes as, “like Dan Brown but better written”. David’s novels are available from independent bookstores in Mornington where he is invited to meet readers and other authors. The last of GemLife Woodend’s Final Stage home sites are selling now. Each site features one of a selection of three-bedroom home designs with between 187sqm to 212sqm of living space, a generous array of premium inclusions and designer finishes plus a 6-star energy rating. Tel: 1800 931 188 | website: gemlife.com.au

Order now on aussietoysonline.com.au 12643895-ET43-23

Tuesday, 24 October, 2023 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 17

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18 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 24 October, 2023

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COMMUNITY

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.

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.

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 This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of fungi expert Ema Corro doing a BaccChat event for Moorabool council (Damjan Janevski). 367040_01

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

Riddells Creek. ■ https://bit.ly/41j5BEw

Ladies probus 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 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

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 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,

members, with a number of great events held each month. ■ Greg, 0417593035

■ sunburyrotary@gmail.com

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

Carer connect chat Connect with other carers in your local area, share a light lunch, have a chat at noon on the first Wednesday of the month. Head to Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health, 1 Caroline Chisholm Drive, Kyneton. ■ 0491 174 550, or email 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

The Woodlands Ladies Probus Club of Sunbury meets on the fourth Monday of each month at the Sunbury Bowling Club at 9.45 am. ■ Leonie, 0401 764 182

Sunbury Ladies Probus Club The Sunbury Ladies Probus Club meets at 9.30am on the fourth Wednesday of each month at the Sunbury Football Social Club rooms. ■ Pat, 0433 789 754, or Sylvia, 0417 170 142

Sunbury Combined Probus Club The Sunbury Combined Probus Club meets every fourth Thursday of the month at the Sunbury Football Social Club at 10am. ■ Carmel , 0416 477 271

Toastmasters Sunbury & Macedon Ranges Toastmasters helps its members develop their public speaking, communication and leadership skills. The group meets on the first and third Tuesday of each month, from 7.20-9.30pm, at the Sunbury Senior Citizens Hall. ■ vpm-4185@toastmastersclubs.org

Sunbury Seniors Sunbury Seniors (55 or older) meet on Mondays and Fridays at 8 O’Shanassy Street, Sunbury, from 10am-3pm. A variety of activities are offered – indoor bowls, cards, snooker, guest speakers, day excursions, subsidised lunches or just a cup of coffee and a chat. ■ 0434 400 754

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

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

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 0438677425

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

Sunbury Badminton Club The Sunbury Badminton Club plays social games on Tuesdays and Wednesdays nights from 7.30pm to 9.30 pm, and on Wednesdays 10am to 12pm. Monday night is a Round Robin competition from 7:30pm to 9:30pm. All welcome to attend at Clarks Oval Stadium 49 Riddle Road. ■ sunburybc@gmail.com

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

Tuesday, 24 October, 2023 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 19

PUZZLES 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.

easy

5 3 1 8 1 4 7 5 2

8 2 7

7 6

7 9 8 5 8 6 3 2 9 1 6 7

2 3

Clients (9) Land measure (imp) (4) Insect before butterfly (11) Circus (8) Strut (6) Cross-cultural internet joke (4) Disregarded (7) They’re found in laksa or pho (7) Small case for small articles (4) Heavenly body (6) Aligned (8) Diversion (11) River in Hades (4) Sounds made to indicate an incoming call (9)

14 19

24 25 27 28 29

DOWN Subterranean burial chamber (8) Medical term (8)

1 2

medium

8 9 7 1

7 8 3 5 7 6 6 1

No. 156

Flower (6) Apart (9) Slave (4) Arrest (6) Merited (6) Sea robbers (7) Action (9) Limb part (7) Male horse (8) Ways of speaking (8) Playing suit (6) Swampy (6) Type of nut (6) Mark left by a wound (4)

3 4 5 7 8 9 15 16 17 18 21 22 23 26

ACROSS 1 6 10 11 12 13

QUICK CROSSWORD

DECODER

No. 156

5 2 3 1 9 3 6 4 7

6 2

1 5 4 hard

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: 21 words: Good 31 words: Very good

C A

No. 156

( / 9 ( 6

CUTER DEEDS EDGER ELUDE ELVES ENTER FACED FIVER FROGS GENES HARED HOVEL IDEAL IMAGE MACHO MATED NAIVE NESTS NOTED ODDER OMEGA OUNCE

4 LETTERS ANEW DEEP EELS MUGS RIFE SLAY SLIP SNOB STEM TUGS 5 LETTERS AGILE ALIBI ALOUD APART BOSSY CARAT COMBS

PACTS REVUE RIVAL SEEDY SHOPS SHOTS

6 LETTERS CALLER HARROW KETTLE NOBLES PASSER TRUCES

SOLED SPENT STRAY STYLE THERE TIERS TIMED

7 LETTERS CAREFUL CONFINE ENTRIES OVEREAT PATTERN VERTIGO

8 LETTERS AMERICAN DEPORTED DESERVED HOMESPUN 10 LETTERS DISTRESSES PRETENSION

TRACE TRAIL TRIBE UNITS VERGE WOODS

acme, calm, came, camel, camp, cape, caplet, celt, cilia, ciliate, cite, claim, clam, clamp, clap, cleat, climate, clime, clip, eclat, elicit, epic, ileac, iliac, impact, IMPLICATE, italic, lace, laic, lice, licit, mace, malice, mica, mice, pace, pact, pica, place, plaice, plicate, talc

27-10-23

No. 156 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

Which team won the 2013 AFL Grand Final?

In 2023, which artist broke the record for most Grammys in history?

Which band released the albums The Getaway, Stadium Arcadium and The Uplift Mofo Party Plan?

What is the capital of Greece?

What is the West African dish Fufu?

Who won the Oscar for Best Supporting Actor at the 2022 awards?

What is the chemical symbol for lead?

10 Which Australian TV singing contest returned in 2023?

C O W L

L I T S U G H T N L A Y

F O I

20 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 24 October, 2023

H O S

5 3 7 4 1 2 6 9 8 9 4 1 3 8 6 5 7 2 6 2 8 7 9 5 1 4 3 2 5 6 9 4 1 3 8 7 1 7 3 6 2 8 9 5 4 4 8 9 5 3 7 2 6 1 7 9 4 2 5 3 8 1 6 8 6 2 1 7 9 4 3 5 3 1 5 8 6 4 7 2 9

QUICK QUIZ

7 4 2 3 5 6 1 9 8 6 5 3 1 9 8 2 4 7 8 1 9 4 2 7 5 6 3 4 7 5 6 8 9 3 2 1 9 2 8 5 1 3 4 7 6 3 6 1 7 4 2 9 8 5 1 9 4 8 6 5 7 3 2 2 8 7 9 3 1 6 5 4 5 3 6 2 7 4 8 1 9

1 8 9 6 3 5 7 2 4 2 7 6 1 9 4 8 3 5 4 3 5 2 8 7 6 9 1 5 4 3 7 2 6 1 8 9 7 1 8 4 5 9 3 6 2 6 9 2 3 1 8 4 5 7 8 5 1 9 4 3 2 7 6 3 6 4 5 7 2 9 1 8 9 2 7 8 6 1 5 4 3

10 11 12 13

T W 18

L O

14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26

S H

I U

Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

42 words: Excellent

hard

5x5

F G Y AME S N C O D B V

medium

3 LETTERS ADD ADO AGE AIL APT BOA CUE DUO EBB EGG EKE GOP HUE NEE NET PEG PER PRO TNT TWO WEB YES

easy

Z KH R U I L J Q P X TW

1 6 3 8 6 6 5 1 3 5 9 7 1 3 9 4 4 7 6 7 4 2 6 1 7 9 5 6

WORDFIT

Jennifer Coolidge (pictured) plays Tanya McQuoid in which 2023 series?

In which US state is Yosemite national park located?

ANSWERS: 1. Hawthorn Football Club 2. Beyoncé 3. Athens 4. Troy Kotsur 5. The White Lotus 6. California 7. Red Hot Chili Peppers 8. Mashed starchy root vegetables 9. Pb 10. Australian Idol

No. 156

0 $ & + 2 6 + 2 3 6 3 $ & 7 6 $ / 2 8 ' + 2 9 ( / $ 3 $ 5 7 7 , 0 ( ' 2 0 ( * $ 6 7 5 $ < ( % % ( 1 7 ( 5 < ( 6 $ , / . ( 7 7 / ( ' , 6 7 5 ( 6 6 ( 6 + 7 3 $ 7 7 ( 5 1 ) , 9 ( 5 & 8 7 ( 5 7 8 * 6 $ 0 ( 5 , & $ 1 0 8 * 6 1 ( ( & 2 1 ) , 1 ( & $ 5 ( ) 8 / ( * * ( ( / 6 ' ( 3 2 5 7 ( ' ' ( ( 3 ( / 9 ( 6 % 2 6 6 < ( 1 7 5 , ( 6 : * + $ 5 5 2: 3 5 ( 7 ( 1 6 , 2 1 $ * ( % 2 $ 7 5 , % ( ' 8 2 5 , 9 $ / 1 $ , 9 ( 6 3 ( 1 7 ( ' * ( 5 7 5 $ & ( ( / 8 ' ( :2 2 ' 6 6 2 / ( ' ' ( ( ' 6

SUDOKU

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Tuesday, 24 October, 2023 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 21

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‘S’ puts on a Jolion show By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring The Chinese automobile maker GWM Haval has spiced up its popular small petrol sports utility vehicle segment with the addition of a Jolion S, as well as doubling up on the hybrid models to two. With the Jolion Premium acting as the entry-level, at $28,490 drive-away, the ‘S’ variant ($36,990), slots in the six-model range between the Ultra and the two hybrids, the lesser with Lux trim and priced the same as the S. The Jolion Ultra Hybrid ($40,990) tops off the line-up. The new Jolion S, on test here, stands alone from the rest of the model range with a pepped-up power plant, fresh multi-link rear suspension and various unique black exterior features for a sportier appearance. Inside the cabin, only on the ‘S’, is a new layout of buttons directly under the centre dash infotainment screen, preventing their accidental operation. Owners benefit from GWM’s seven-year unlimited kilometre warranty and economical capped price servicing costs for five years. STYLING Setting the Jolion S apart from other models are black 18-inch wheels, black door mirror caps, black roof rails, black side garnish, and blacked-out lower front and rear bumpers. Jolians in general, feature a multi-faceted pattern of daytime running lights bookending LED headlamps and fog lights. The grille adds to the shine with sparkling finish and horizontal accents to create a bold, if flashy, show. The car’s profile is standard SUV lines with a coupe-like roof curve approaching the C-pillar. Except having more badges than a Scout jamboree, the rear is as plain as the front is glitzy. INTERIOR The general occupant opinion was that heated front seats were some of the most comfortable in this class of car, while faux leather with contrast stitching and Haval logo was good enough to give the impression of the luxury of the real thing. That as maybe, but the lack of angling the driver’s seat base for added comfort and the absence of lumbar support shaved off some of the shine. The leather-clad steering misses out on reach adjustment. It’s angle only. Thanks to a long wheelbase the bench-like back seat accommodates three across with generous legroom. In addition are air vents, USB charge ports behind the centre console, rear map pockets, bottle holders in the doors, and a fold-down centre armrest with extra cup holders. Headroom is compromised by the sloping roofline and sunroof, as is the rear view is restricted by the angled window. Storage is taken care of by a central bin and a pair of cup holders in two sizes in the centre console, while door pockets can fit bottles. Boot space checks in at 430 litres (enough to take a couple of big suitcases) and 1133 litres with the 60:40 second row stowed. There’s room only for an under-floor space-saver spare.

The Jolion S has pepped up the Haval SUV range.

INFOTAINMENT A 12.3-inch touchscreen crowns the central dashboard and a 7-inch digital display sits directly in front of the driver. Topping this off is a head-up windscreen display featuring digital speedo, speed limits and lane discipline diagram. Connectivity consists of the 12.3-inch colour multimedia touchscreen linked to Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Audio is handled by a six-speaker system, which misses out on a volume knob or toggle, other than on the steering wheel. The front passenger is left out, limited only to using the audio menu via the touchscreen. The Jolion S continues the quirky driver focused camera constantly checking whether he or she is paying attention to matters at hand. A camera fixed to the A-pillar serves up an audible ding and the admonishment ‘Hey, don’t stray!’ on the touchscreen on catching what it thinks is concentration wavering. Chinese checkers? It’s all a bit naff to me. ENGINES/TRANSMISSIONS The Haval Jolion S is powered by an upgraded 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine hitched up to a seven-speed dual clutch automatic transmission driving through the front wheels. This is enough to come up with a maximum 130 kW and 270 Nm, 20 kW and 50 Nm above the trio below it in the line-up.

22 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 24 October, 2023

SAFETY Standard safety features include seven airbags including front-centre, autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection. There’s lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring, traffic sign recognition, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control with stop/go and safe exit warning. Unfortunately, some of the assistance is a tad too keen comfortably to help out. Cameras create an all-round plan view of the vehicle, while Haval’s A-pillar-mounted spy camera keeps a check of the driver’s behaviour behind the wheel. All Jolians are rated five stars for safety on 2022 testing. DRIVING Despite upgrades to the powerplant, the turbo turned out to be a little hesitant to connect, especially on inclines. This was even more pronounced in reverse gear, when power came in annoying bursts. Once on the move, however, the Jolion S put on a boisterous (some would say harsh) performance, especially when wound up. Ragged edges did appear in stop/start city motoring. As stated by the maker, expect a combined urban/highway fuel consumption of around 7.5 litres per 100km, compared to the standard 1.5’s 8.1 litres per 100 kilometres. A 55-litre tank takes 91 RON unleaded petrol. The Jolion S is the only model in the line-up

to be fitted with a multi-link independent rear suspension, in place of the standard torsion beam set-up, which the maker claims offers ‘enhanced ride and handling’. The test car took to sweeping around fast bends with the tail fixed firmly to the road. However, the suspension was susceptible to a bang or two from behind on bumpy roads. The rotary gearshift is wayward in selecting (D)rive or (M)anual mode and spins without any transmission connection if not careful. On the other hand, new push-button climate control switches on the centre dash have alleviated the previous faults with the touch controls, which were easy to catch accidentally while resting the palm when working the touch screen. SUMMARY While the price of the Haval Jolion S is $3000 up on the past petrol flagship, the Ultra, there is more in the newbie’s performance and packaging to more than justify the financial jump. RATINGS n Looks: 7/10 n Performance: 6/10 n Safety: 8/10 n Thirst: 7/10 n Practicality: 8/10 n Comfort: 7/10 n Tech: 8/10 n Value: 7/10

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Some tight tussles in the GDCA It was a big round of cricket in the Gisborne and District Cricket Association McIntyre Cup. Romsey kicked off Saturday with a tight win against Rupertswood at the Romsey Recreation Reserve. The home side were set to the field with Rupertswood’s Shane van Rooy and Max Howell coming to the crease to open the batting. Both players got away to nice starts, putting up a 66 run opening stand. Skipper Nathan Showsmith was Rupertswood’s best with the bat scoring 51 before he was bowled by Louis Moor. It was all downhill from there with Rupertswood collapsing, losing eight wickets for just 82 runs, setting Romsey 163 to win. With the ball, there were even contributions across the board with Talor Stevenson taking 3-27, Jamie Taylor 3-6 and Nathan Hoy 2-7. Both Moor and Marienfeld took one wicket each. It wasn’t easy going for Romsey, finding themselves three down with just 51 runs on the board. However, Taylor Steveson was able to come to the crease and steady the ship with a handy half century. Skipper Benjamin Way was also able to contribute with the bat scoring 26 off 33 balls to put his side in a winning position. Joel Muir was Rupertswood’s best with ball in hand taking 2-21 off his nine overs. Macedon faced the Sunbury Kangaroos at Tony Clarke Recreation Reserve. The Kangaroos elected to bowl at the toss of the coin and looked like a good decision early taking a wicket in the first over of the match

Nathan Shoesmith celebrates a wicket (Jacob Pattison) 363949_14

and had Macedon 3-27. Yet, Daniel Trotta was able to get the innings back under control for the Cats making 92 runs from 85 balls, including 11 fours and two sixes. Cameron Howlett was also able to put on some handy runs scoring 32, setting the Kangaroos a target of 200 to win.

Cameron Wooley was the Kangaroos best with the ball, taking 3-24. The Kangaroos got off to a good start with all six of their opening batsmen getting out of single figures. However, Mace Green and Woolley’s innings were the highlights scoring 39 and 37 respectively.

Their innings began to collapse as Green and Woolley departed, losing five for just 28 runs, falling 13 runs shy of the target. Following this round Romsey remain undefeated, Macedon and the Kangaroos are sitting at one win and two losses, while Rupertswood are still winless.

SPORTS QUIZ 1. Which GWS star called the AFL ‘inherently biased’ in regards to the ‘favoured treatment’ of Victorian clubs? 2. What was the reason the Constellation Cup Game 1 between the Diamonds and the New Zealand Silver Ferns was halted? 3. Of the 24 rounds in the 2023 AFL season, how many games resulted in a draw?

4. How old was Simone Biles when she won her first gold medal? 5. Name the Australian speed skater who won Olympic gold after after all his competors crashed?

13. What team does Mary Fowler play for in England’s Women’s Super League? 14. AFL player Tyler Brockman was recently traded to which team?

6. How many premierships has Collingwood won to date?

15. How many NBA teams has Ben Simmons played for in his career?

7. St Kilda veteran Jade Gresham has officially been traded to which club?

16. At which Olympics did athletes Tommie Smith and John Carlos make their famous Black Power Salute?

8. Which tennis star announced she would be returning to play professionally in 2024 after her pregnancy? 9. Which tennis tournament will Rafael Nadal be making his Grand Slam return to? 10. Which AFL player has a viral cooking channel on TikTok? 11. Which nation did England lose to by 69 runs in the ICC Cricket World Cup?

Ben Simmons

12. Which Australian boxer recently defeated Brian Mendoza in a title bout?

Rafael Nadal

17. Australian punter Arryn Siposs last played for which NFL team? 18. Which former cricketer recently received a payout from the BBC for an accident on the TV series Top Gear? 19. The NHL team Boston Bruins has which animal as its mascot? 20. Bonnie Toogood and Stephanie Cain are the co-captains of which AFL Women’s team? 21. Which former professional surfer was recently elevated to legend status in the Sport Australia Hall of Fame?

22. Which former rugby union player was recently elevated to legend status in the Sport Australia Hall of Fame? 23. Kai Jones most recently played for which NBA team? 24. Which Brisbane Bullet was recently given a five-match suspension after a game against the Cairns Taipans? 25. Which horse won the 2023 running of The Everest thoroughbred horse race?

27. And which retired NBA player was recently named Reebok’s vice president of basketball? 28. Australian cyclist Saya Sakakibara won the 2023 World Cup title in which variety of racing? 29. Michael Prior is coach of which AFLW club? 30. Which player scored in England’s recent 1-0 win over the Socceroos at Wembley Stadium?

26. Which retired NBA player was recently named Reebok’s president of basketball?

2710

1. Tom Green 2. Power outages 3. Two 4. 16 years old 5. Steven John Bradbury 6. 15 (VFL/AFL) 7. Essendon 8. Naomi Osaka 9. 2024 Australian Open 10. Christian Petracca 11. Afghanistan 12. Tim Tszyu 13. Manchester City 14. West Coast 15. Two (Philadelphia and Brooklyn) 16. 1968 Mexico City Olympics 17. Philadelphia Eagles 18. Andrew 'Freddie' Flintoff 19. Bear 20. Essendon 21. Layne Beachley 22. Mark Ella 23. Charlotte Hornets 24. Aron Baynes 25. Think About It 26. Shaquille O’Neal 27. Allen Iverson 28. BMX 29. West Coast Eagles 30. Ollie Watkins Tuesday, 24 October, 2023 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 23

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Chris Dunne returns to the ‘pouch’ Chris Dunne has been revealed as the Sunbury Kangaroos women’s coach for the 2024 Essendon District Football League season. Dunne was the Kangaroos youths first ever coach and took the under 18.5 girls to two consecutive grand finals in the AFL Goldfields Competition, in 2017 and 2018. Now he will transition into senior women’s football which is a challenge he said he is looking forward to. “It’s been a long time coming back, but I’m happy to be back and pretty excited,” he said. “Women’s football has come a long way in the last five, six, seven years. “It’s good to see some of the older players coming back to the club, so it’s just a happy environment, I hope.”

Since Dunne’s announcement as coach, there has been a flurry of women wanting to return to the club including the former captain Tylah Bell, something that Dunne said he takes a lot of confidence and excitement from. “I’m still getting messages today from ladies who want to come back, so that’s good,” he said. “Last year we didn’t have a lot of growth in the club, not for any particular reason, nothing to do with the coach or anything, but this year we’re just trying to build it back to what it was.” Last year the Kangaroos finished in fifth place, one spot out of finals in division 2, featuring in finals football in 2024 is something that Dunne is hoping his side can do.

“I think they are capable of it,” he said. “We’ve got to get them on the path to do that, but last year they started off really rough, and half way through the year the girls just clicked. “The majority of those girls will come back, I think 90 per cent of those girls will be playing next year.” After struggling to field a side last season to an influx of players coming to the club, things are certainly on the rise at the Kangaroos. “Five to 10 [players will be joining] which is a big jump from last year,” Dunne said. “We struggled to have a team every week, so that’s a good thing, we might have a bench this year which will help a lot, it’ll be good.” - Harper Sercombe

Bombers crash to earth going down to Eagles Essendon’s AFLW top four hopes have taken a hit with West Coast upsetting the Bombers on Sunday afternoon. Two early goals with the breeze held the Eagles in good stead for the day as they made the most of their scoreboard advantage to give them a 3.5 (23)-2.7 (19) victory at Windy Hill. Essendon’s coach Natalie Wood said the Eagles got the best of her side on Sunday. “It was tough, I thought West Coast started really well, used the wind to their advantage but they stepped in around the contest a lot more than we did initially,” she said. “Credit to them, they were really hungry, they were really desperate, they played the conditions and got the territory early and we were always chasing. “We were going into the breeze in the first quarter and I thought probably after five minutes we had some good passages “West Coast brought a lot of pressure, they were in our face around the contest and we were taking some backward steps not fighting forward, not getting territory when we had the opportunity, a couple too many handballs and turnovers and West Coast were gone. “Today we weren’t at our best, West Coast took that away from us , we need to find ways to turn up and be our best, I know our best is competitive.” Wood also said that with injuries and players not performing, she was made to throw some magnets around late. “We needed a bit more competitiveness up forward,” she said. “We learnt a lot about some of our younger players today, and there’s some positives there for us. “We want to keep taking steps forward and we need to find ways to keep taking steps forward with the injuries that we’ve got. “It’s a 10 week season and every week’s an opportunity to learn and educate.” Maddy Prespakis (30 disposals, 10 tackles, nine clearances) was once again a force to be reckoned with around stoppages. The importance of the captain’s influence came to the fore in the fourth term, which saw her register Essendon’s first goal. The Bombers rose to the challenge in the final term as they began to influence the game from the centre, but it was too little, too late as classy goals from Bonnie Toogood and Amber Clarke weren’t enough to get the home side over the line. Toogood also had 14 disposals, 11 tackles and three clearances, while young-gun Clark only had five touches. Georgia Nanscawen was also amongst the Don’s best with 20 disposals, 17 tackles and six clearances. With just two rounds to go in the season, there is plenty of work still to be done for the Bombers, who at the end of round 8 sit in fifth

Georgia Marinier (Ljubica Vrankovic) 344650_06_15

Briefs

Jack Jedwab (Ljubica Vrankovic)

RDFL Romsey has announced a host of re-signings for the 2024 Riddell District Football League season including the women’s coach. Following the Redback’s inaugural women’s season Aaron Paterson will return as coach. Some of the players returning to the men’s team includes their best and fairest, RDFL leading goal kicker and RDFL team of the year representative Jack Jedwab. The runners up best and fairest Nathan Rayment has also re-committed to the club. Other resignings include Corey Pertzel, Nathan Blair, Kane Brinkhuis and Jax Kinner. Kynton has announced plenty of re-signings heading into its first season in the Riddell District Football League. Archie Neylon, Jye Chambers, Matthew Hanna, Jacob Street-Glasson, Josh Johnston, Max McLeish, James O’Sullivan, Nathan Fisher, Oliver Plunkett, Daniel Yarwood, Jacob Plowman and Jayden Eales have all recommitted to the Tigers.

EDFL East Sunbury has released its player signings and re-commitments ahead of the 2024 season. Dave Morrice has joined the club as a playing senior assistant coach having played almost 250 games across Macedon, Digger Rest and Rupertswood. Morrice is an inside midfielder who is also dangerous up forward. The club said that he will slot in nicely with its young group and provide the leadership and guidance he has displayed. East Sunbury are also on the hunt for women players. “Be part of East Sunbury Football Club history, in joining our first Senior Women’s Team in 2024,” the club said via social media. If you are interested contact coach Lisa Borg on 0401 881 002 or women’s operations manager on 0431 253 111. Joanne Doonan.(Joe Mastroianni). 294022_07

position with a five win, three loss scoreline. Next week the Bombers will be back at Windy Hill, facing off against old rivals

24 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 24 October, 2023

Carlton on Saturday afternoon. The Blues sit in ninth spot, making the clash a must win for both sides.

FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Sunbury & Macedon Ranges Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

SPORT Gisborne on the right track after two victories Gisborne has enjoyed the perfect start to the Gisborne and District Cricket Association McIntyre cup season, sitting on the top of the ladder after two rounds. The Dragons cruised past Diggers Rest Bulla in the opening round, defeating the Burras by 152 runs. It was more of the same in round 2, defeating Macedon by 147 runs. Dragons’ president Andrew Headberry said he couldn’t be happier with how his club has started off the season. “I’m happy with the stuff in the McIntyre Cup,” he said. “The guys have started brightly and I think we’re in pretty good shape.” The Dragon’s opening batting partnership in Warren Kelly and Riley Vernon have kicked their season off with a bang. Kelly scored 63 in the first round and a massive 140 off just over 100 balls against the Bulls. While Vernon

made 93 in the first game and 53 against the Bulls. “Both those boys hit the ball really hard,” Headberry said. “So if they get going it’s going to be really difficult for opposition bowlers because they’re scary propositions once they’re in a bit of form.” It has been a good start for the Dragons, kicking their season off as scheduled, without rain delayed like many other cricket associations. “That’s one of the benefits of playing on a hard wicket,” Headberry said. “It’s probably been touch and go both weeks, it was pretty cold and miserable week one, but we got the games in, and there was a little bit of drizzle around last Saturday, but it didn’t disrupt it so that’s really good.” With plenty of rounds still to play in the season the Dragons are hoping they can

maintain this winning form. “We’re starting off the season believing that we’re a finals team,” Headberry said. “Last year we had the same mindset and we made it to the finals easy enough and then it didn’t work out for us. “So that’s where we’re definitely targeting, another finals appearance. “And looking to perform a bit better at the pointy end of the year.” This weekend the Dragons faced off against fellow undefeated side Sunbury United. Speaking before the match, Headberry said he expected a tough match. “We expect United to be strong again,” he said. “It’s always good to come up against a contender reasonably early on and sort of see where we’re really at. “It’s at our home ground so it should be a good one.”

Gisborne’s Warren Kelly. (Shawn Smits) 203926_09

Former Cannon AFLW Rising Star

Michelle Fletcher (Jacob Pattison)363952_01

Tigers are off to a flier By Harper Sercombe Kyneton Tigers’ women’s team are off to a flying start in the Country Basketball League. The Tigers are undefeated from the first two rounds of the season, kicking off the season with four wins. Now, after playing back-to-back games over the first two weekends the Tigers are enjoying a well deserved break. Tigers’ coach Ash Clark said he was delighted with the way his side has started the season. “I suppose you hope for that sort of start but you don’t really expect it,” Clark said. “I believe it’s based around the girl’s defence, they’re just locked in on a defensive structure that’s really hard to beat.” The defence Clark speaks of was on full display against both the Macedon Ranges Rockies and the Maryborough Blazers, keeping them to 57 and 46 points respectively. One player who has particularly caught the eye of Clark this season, is the Tigers star player Michelle Fletcher.

Fletcher took out last season’s CBL most valuable player award, and was a part of the all-star five. She has been a part of the Tigers program since its inception after she played more than 300 games in the South East Australia Basketball League and had her jersey retired by the Bendigo Braves. “It’s probably funny to say, because Michelle’s the reigning MVP yet she’s taken her game to the next level,” Clark said. “The starting five really are just leading it themselves and leading that side of things to the next level.” It has not just been all defence for the Tigers this season with two of the league’s three most prolific scorers to this point, coming from the side. Poppy Blanch and Alexandra Strawhorn have been fantastic, averaging 20 and 17.5 points a game respectively. “Alex showed to me in the pre-season that she was ready to take her game to the next level and she’s showing that,” Clark said. While it’s only been two rounds of the season, the workload has been big for the

Tigers, with this weekend a good time to recover, Clark said. “There were a couple of girls a bit sore,” he said. “I think they were looking forward to the break, that’s for sure. “It has been a bit full on for the start.” The Tigers next game is against Mildura Heat on Sunday afternoon at the Kyneton Sports and Aquatic Centre. The Heat only played two games from the first two rounds, winning and losing one. “We’re looking forward to it,” Clark said. “They’re the ones that knocked us out last year. “They’re a quality young team that shoots the ball, and the girls will certainly have to be on the ball with it again.” After last year’s heartbreak, and a strong start the Tigers are setting their targets high for the remainder of the season. “Absolutely finals are the goal,” Clark said. “Then we hopefully can take it one step further than last season.”

Former Calder Cannon, now Richmond livewire forward Emelia Yassir is the Round 7 AFLW Rising Star nominee. Yassir kicked a career-high three goals in the Dreamtime clash against Essendon on Saturday night, including the opening major of the game within the first 20 seconds of play. In addition to kicking the bulk of the Tigers’ score, she also had four score involvements and laid four tackles, the 20-year-old impressing with her energy and work-rate around goals. A fierce competitor, Yassir has been in fine form all season, averaging a goal a game in the opening seven rounds of the season. The 20-year old was selected by the Tigers with pick No. 16 in the 2021 AFLW Draft and was named the Club’s best first-year player in her debut season. The 20-year-old has played 26 games and kicked 14 goals for the Tigers, including two goals in the Season Seven Semi Final against North Melbourne. Yassir was drafted from the Cannons and played juniors with the Pascoe Vale Football Club in the Essendon District Football League “We are hurting, we’ve been hurting for a few weeks but it’s another reason to get up and going the next week,” Yassir said following the loss to the Bombers. “We’re just hungrier and hungrier to get back and bounce back up to the Richmond way.” While the result didn’t go as planned for Yassir or the Tigers, she was happy with how she was able to contribute. “I’m proud of the group, there’s no individual goal, it’s everyone combining. “I was able to execute, which I’m absolutely stoked about.”

Emelia Yassir (Daniel Pockett/Getty Images via AFL Photos)

Tuesday, 24 October, 2023 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 25

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