Star Weekly - Sunbury Macedon Ranges - 9th January 2024 by Star Weekly

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9 JANUARY, 2024

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The Kyneton Cup returned this year in highlight for the Macedon Ranges. (Damjan Janevski) 369554_01

A year of pains and gains As another year ticks over for Sunbury and Macedon Ranges residents, Star Weekly looks back on a year of community gains as well frustration and growing pains. Highlights in the region include the return of the Kyneton Cup after its four-year hiatus, Sunbury’s Kaur and Singh family visa extension until the end of January, and a local schools Melbourne International Film Festival feature. But with COVID-19 well and truly in the rear view mirror, residents grappled with the cost of living crisis, infrastructure blowouts, growth pains, council tension and level crossing removal shock decisions. Hume council hit the front page and the

courtroom with its backflip on booking the 2022 NAIDOC Pride Winner for its IDAHOBIT event, and its supreme court appeal withdrawal against VCAT’s decision to clear councillor Trevor Dance of serious misconduct. Macedon Ranges council dealt with its own push back from residents following the release of the draft Romsey and Gisborne structure plans, with councillors sharing concerns about flaws in the plans. The state government made its own impact on the region, with the implementation of a 7.5 per cent tax on short-stay accommodation platforms’ revenue, and its refusal to confirm whether its own $50 million investment for

Calder Freeway upgrades will go ahead. Despite these events, residents rallied to support each other with a $1,055,000 charity auction from Rosenthal development to be distributed between 60 local not-for-profit organisations. Flash Dance Performing Arts in Sunbury joined a dozen dance schools from across the north-west for a charity gala to raise money for Exford Primary School following its school bus crash in May. Macedon Ranges residents dived head first into supporting health promotion charity, Youth Live4Life, with swimmers clocking a total of 29,522 laps to raise $38,050. But for Sunbury residents, it was a dry 2023,

with the public indoor pool’s unexpected closure since May and $1,147,594 repair and improvement bill. For residents in Diggers Rest, fears of compulsory land acquisition for level crossing removal were confirmed with designs for the two road bridges. Local resident Bob Rau organised a town meeting on the matter and said he was “stunned” by the compulsory acquisition announcement. Looking ahead this year, residents can expect further growth in Sunbury and the Macedon Ranges following a suite of housing reforms announced last 2023 in the government’s housing statement.

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Burst main ‘help’ doesn’t wash April 18 Kyneton business owners say they would have liked more support from Coliban Water after the town’s water supply was disrupted after a water main burst overnight on April 11. Kyneton and Malmsbury residents were advised to boil their water after the water main in Rennick Avenue burst, resulting in supply interruption, very low pressure and potential contamination. Country Cob manager Fiona Halpin said she would have liked Coliban Water to offer more help to affected businesses. “They’ve done the best they can I think, [but]

they could have helped businesses out a bit by offering some alternative… or had an option to make it a bit easier on businesses,” Ms Halpin said. “Perhaps a more central location [to get clean water from].” Ms Halpin said the bakery was boiling and then refrigerating water, but has since sent staff to get water from trailers supplied by Coliban Water at the showgrounds. “We picked up 40 litres [on Thursday, which is] just for shop use… we can’t offer free drinking water,” she said. “We are going to get more water tomorrow (Friday) so we have some for the weekend.”

Watts Fresh owner Dean Lamb said he wanted more clarity about the situation from Coliban Water. “You could hear a rumble of concern with customers and staff,” Mr Lamb said. “[There was] no advice to businesses… or specific business information. “I would have liked some general advice on what you should do to protect your coffee machine, [as] these can be quite an investment for a small business. “Any business that prepares food, especially salads, should really get some clear direction about the best way to protect their customers and their business.”

A spokesperson for Coliban Water said the authority encourages businesses with specific enquiries to make contact, but “the same advice applies to all residential and business customers [and they]... acknowledge the inconvenience.” In response to a question from Star Weekly about protecting coffee machines, the spokesperson said “once the Boil Water Advisory has been lifted, we recommend running clean water through the machine for 5-10 minutes to ensure fresh water is in the machine.” “There will not be any damage to the machine,” they said.

Footy club’s plan for pub March 7

Calls for welfare increase to needy January 24 Australia’s leading hunger relief organisation and a Hume councillor have renewed calls to increase the JobSeeker welfare payment to tackle the “skyrocketing” cost of living and relieve pressure on food banks. Foodbank Victoria chief executive Dave McNamara said it was important to note how the implementation of the JobKeeper payment and the increase of the JobSeeker rate during lockdowns had led to a decrease in demand “across the foodbank network”. “[With the] cost of living, with housing availability and skyrocketing rents… people were struggling before these cost of living impacts,” Mr McNamara said. “The ability now to purchase healthy food is

Support like this is not a handout, it is a hand up,” he said. “If you want to entrench disadvantage in people, then not giving them the support that is at the most basic level enough to live off is the way to do it.” CareWorks SunRanges service manager Jane Williams said even since she last spoke to Star Weekly in mid-2022, the pressure on the service had escalated further. “[Right now] we can get like eight new clients a week, that could be eight families,” she said. “[People take] whatever you can supply them. Food is our main thing, and that will always be because we don’t want to see people go hungry.”

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even harder than it was 12 months ago. If we want a society that is equitable… the minimum JobSeeker [rate] should be increased so people can afford a healthy meal.” He said across the northern and western suburbs, such as Hume, the organisation has seen “massive growth” in demand. “That region is one of the fastest growing areas of food insecurity in the state, that’s because you have large areas of urban sprawl so people are being pushed further out to buy property,” Mr McNamara said. Hume councillor Jarrod Bell said he supported calls from Foodbank to increase welfare payments. “The JobSeeker allowance should be there [for people] to live a comfortable life while they are seeking additional employment…

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CareWorks SunRanges coordinator Jane Williams says demand on the service isn’t easing. (Damjan Janevski) 315860_01

Romsey could become a town with a pub once again. On Friday, February 24, the Romsey Football Football Netball Club committee announced its plan to reopen the Romsey Hotel. Owner and long-time hotelier Jim Hogan closed the pub in October 2017 and put the property on the market, leaving the town without a pub for the first time in over 150 years. In a Facebook post, the club proposed they would lease and run the hotel with the profits to be shared by the local community. “The distribution of all profits to local clubs and charities is to be decided by a board of Trustees, made up of eminent local people, annually,” the post said. Club spokesman Darryn Hartnet said “the idea is that the pub would meet the community needs [and be a] holistic approach in terms of [these] needs”. “The club intends to reach out to the service clubs and RSLs to try and accommodate their needs.” The club has detailed plans to renovate the hotel to include al-fresco dining out the front, with a high end interior cafe and wine bar. “[The] expected employment will be 100, providing full and part-time work, and importantly apprenticeships for local young people,” the post said. “It will be a great social and economic asset for the area”. Mr Hartnet said the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.

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Under the hammer for a cause September 29 With the sun shining and auction anticipation spreading, about 250 people gathered on September 16 for the sale of 3 Delia Ave, Sunbury. With no reserve, the new Sunbury property from Rosenthal Development was sold for $1,055,000, with 100 per cent to be distributed between 60 local not-for-profit organisations. General manager Paul Millett said there was amazing energy on the day, and it was wonderful to see many of the groups in attendance.

“We were expecting a big crowd given the home is beautiful first and foremost and the fact that the auction was ’no reserve’, which is unheard of,” Mr Millett said. “We knew there would be great support from the local Rosenthal and wider Sunbury communities in particular, [as there were] many groups who were to benefit from the sale.” Mr Millett said providing support to the community at times like these are important given the current cost of living challenges. “It is incumbent on organisations and families like ours to continually give back to the community because without their

support, we don’t exist. “It’s also nice just to say ’thanks’ without any need to get anything in return. “The smiles on the faces in attendance on Saturday made it all worthwhile and we were proud as a family to be able to do that for the amazing community Sunbury is.” Voluntary seniors’ group, Sunbury U3A provides educational, recreational and social programs for seniors in the area and received funding from the sale. President Leigh Martin said it will make a big difference to the group and what U3A can provide the community. “We run courses, events and activities for

seniors but we don’t have a home base and so we have to rent out places,” she said. “The money means we will have more to spend, which means we will have more flexibility.” Ms Martin said is important to keep intellectual engagement, along with social connections. “We’re always trying to reduce isolation in seniors and provide them with stimulating activities… life doesn’t end at 70 years old. “[This funding] means we can provide a lot more now with the money we have.”

Take a book, leave a book June 6

Volunteers Duane Eisele and Val Stannard at the Romsey community foodshare. (Zoe Moffatt) 348751_02

Sharing community spirit in Romsey July 25 On a sunny winter’s day, Romsey community foodshare volunteers greet residents with a smile and offer a place of respite amid the country’s increasing cost of living. Located on the corner of Main Street and Barry Street, the foodshare has been operating for about two years and offers residents an opportunity to buy, swap, sell, take or donate. Volunteer Val Stannard said anyone can use the foodshare and it is important with the cost

of living continuing to increase. “Anybody that’s on benefits can use it, the general public, the homeless, just anyone,” Ms Stannard said. “[It’s needed because] the cost of living is going through the roof [and] people are vulnerable to everything. “There’s a lot of old people that come here and it’s like their weekly outing, they have a chit chat with us and catch up, it’s a social event.” Ms Stannard said there has been an increase

in usage of the service as the cost of living has continued to rise, fellow volunteer Duane Eisele nods in agreement. “It’s spasmodic,” she said, “you know it depends, if it’s raining who wants to be out… [but] anyone struggling can [come down].” If you are not struggling Ms Stannard said residents can help out by donating food and sanitation products. “They can help by donating, we greatly appreciate all donations … [especially] personal hygiene products and milk.”

Malmsbury residents are opening a new chapter with the launch of a recycled community library at the Malmsbury Bakery. Locals Flo Jones and Roslyn Stevens came up with the idea to create the library, which doubles as a book exchange. “We were just sitting in the bakery one day and I said we should set up a community library,” Ms Jones said. “I spoke to Katherine from the bakery and she thought it was a great idea.” Ms Jones said they used a refrigerator from a neighbour to use as the base of the library and a local resident painted the outside. Ms Jones said a motivation for creating the library was seeing Roslyn’s grandchildren react to the community library where they live. “The whole idea behind it is to encourage people to read books. There are some crime stories, a couple of biographies, kids books, general fiction… its ranges. There’s been sci-fi, fantasy… anything and everything. “It’s good to see that most of the kids books we’ve put in haven’t come back, which means they’re being read and read again.” Ms Jones said Roslyn and herself make sure the library is topped up with books, but she does not mind if people want to keep some of the books. “Books are coming and going which is fantastic… we’re both quite avid readers and we’ve always got books to get rid of.

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Tourism to ‘suffer’ with new tax October 3 Tourism Macedon Ranges (TMR) has criticised the state government’s decision to implement a short stay accommodation platform tax, saying it will “exacerbate the emerging slump” in regional visitor spending. This backlash follows the announcement on September 20, that from January 2025, short stay accommodation platforms will be taxed 7.5 per cent of the short-stay accommodation platforms’ revenue. The revenue raised will go to Homes Victoria to build and maintain social and affordable housing, with 25 per cent to be invested in regional Victoria.

TMR chair Andrew Towner said the tax means visitors will choose day trips instead of overnight stays and the local economy will suffer. “Macedon Ranges will be hit particularly hard by this tax,” he said. “Due to our close proximity to Melbourne, 79 per cent of the region’s visitors are day-trippers who spend only $81 each [according to the Daylesford Macedon Ranges Destination Management Plan]. “By comparison, overnight visitors spend $398 in local businesses.” Mr Towner said the lack of traditional hotels and motels in regional Victoria means short-stay accommodation is important. “The state government’s new short stay

accommodation tax will exacerbate the emerging slump in regional visitor spending and stall the tourism recovery,“ he said. “This is a tax on holidaymakers, not a tax on the short-stay booking platforms. TMR encourages the government to consult with industry to develop solutions that will not damage our regional economies.” The Lancefield Guesthouse owner Peter Chiller said the decision is very short sighted, and won’t fix the housing problem. “I’m very disappointed, I think it’s a disaster,” he said, “The problem they are trying to fix is housing, this isn’t going to do that, it’s just going to hurt tourism. “One of the problems we have in the Macedon

Call to repair rain-hit walking tracks May 9 Romsey and Lancefield residents are calling on Macedon Ranges council and the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) to improve local walking tracks after damage from previous years. A petition to repair the Romsey Lancefield Walking Track, Five Mile Creek Track and DEECA-managed Lancefield Park Recreation Reserve was launched on April 22, and about 35 residents have responded so far. Romsey resident Kevin Fothergill said the tracks are in need of repair from the flood damage caused last year, but the Five Mile Creek Track has been damaged for about five years. “[It’s] been a source of concern for residents for a while,” Mr Fothergill said. “Five Mile Creek track was damaged about five years ago … the others weren’t too bad before the 2022 floods. “[The tracks] are usable but they’re a bit risky for people, particularly for elderly people … [they are] badly in need of repair from flood damage.” Mr Fothergill said it is an inconvenience to not be able to access the tracks as they offer a nice area for residents to walk. “What it means for particularly younger people with young children and dog walkers … [is that] you are ducking around puddles, [and] there’s quite a lot of soft grounds and lumpy sections,” he said. “It’s a very popular walk … I have heard reports that people have had falls [there].” In response to the petition, one resident said they felt Romsey was the forgotten town of the Macedon Ranges. Another respondent said: “Lancefield [and] Romsey are growing family towns that need funding to support family activities, and basics such as the walking tracks should be a priority for safe family fun“. Mr Fothergill said they have recently approached Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas but would like to see a clear allocation for the repair of the tracks in councils budget

Ranges is there’s a lot of single cottages for people to stay in, and it supplements the owner’s income. “This tax is going to drive people away from those individual properties into larger commercial properties, and gives them an unfair advantage. “We’ve got so many extra costs coming in at the moment… and now this, you just can’t keep passing the cost on.” When announcing the levy, then premier Daniel Andrews conceded the 7.5 per cent levy would not be universally popular. “Some people will say it’s too high, some people will say it’s not high enough,” he told reporters.

Nazi stickers labelled ‘sick’ April 4

Romsey resident Kevin Fothergill said it is an inconvenience to not be able to access the tracks as they offer a nice area for residents to walk. (Damjan Janevski) 332056_02

“We’d like to see a clear budget allocation… We’d like that to be brought forward and to have council approach government for funding,” he said. Council’s acting assets and operations director, Simon Finlay, said he appreciates the importance of these trails to the public and council is committed to repairing them as soon as possible. “The Romsey-Lancefield trail (Federation Trail) and the Five Mile Creek Track in Romsey sustained damage during the October 2022 flooding event,” Mr Finlay said.

“Council [put] in place temporary closures and signage soon after for the safety of the public … [and] completed temporary emergency repairs to both trails late last year using existing budget.” Mr Finlay said council sought funding from the existing federal and state disaster relief funding program but the tracks were deemed ineligible transport assets. DEECA said the Lancefield Park Recreation Reserve is under management of a locally appointed committee of management and sustained damage from the recent floods.

A recent spate of neo-Nazi stickers and graffiti placed on council buildings across Sunbury has been referred to police. A member of the public questioned Hume council about the stickers during the March 27 council meeting, asking what action council was taking. The resident said the neo-Nazi graffiti and stickers were “targeting LGBT youth groups by being placed on council buildings”. Speaking at the council meeting, city services and living director Hector Gaston said council had referred the matter to police. He said the stickers and graffiti had been placed on council buildings, including the Sunbury Youth Centre. “Council actively removes any such graffiti or stickers from council facilities when and if it occurs,” Mr Gaston said. A council spokesperson said council became aware of stickers on the Sunbury Youth Centre on January 22. Sunbury Police confirmed no arrests had been made and that the investigation was ongoing. The issue was addressed by Jackson’s Creek Ward councillor Jarrod Bell in a TikTok on January 24. . “These messages are simply not acceptable in modern Australia, and they’re not acceptable in Sunbury,” Cr Bell said. “This sick… and unacceptable bigotry and racism and hate is something that I do not accept and I know… the majority of our community do not accept.” Anti-Defamation Commission chairman Dr Dvir Abramovich said putting the stickers on a council building was a “hate crime”.

Lancefield social housing boost behind land lease proposal February 14 Twelve modern social housing units could be on the way to Lancefield. Macedon Ranges council is proposing to build a 12-unit development in partnership with Homes Victoria and Wintringham Housing Limited, including upgrading existing social housing stock. Funded through the Big Housing Build, the $5.3 million project would have five existing units demolished to make way for the new buildings across two council-owned blocks of land totalling about 3700 square metres. The proposed development would grant a

20-year site lease and oversight to Wintringham Housing Limited. The Victorian-based not-for-profit welfare company specialises in housing and care of older people and currently take care of all housing units on behalf of council. “As a first step in this process, council is advertising a notice of intention to lease the site to Wintringham for a 20-year term and welcomes public feedback on this initial proposal,” council said. Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health (SCCH) provides housing support services in the Macedon Ranges - SCCH housing support team manager Justine Maher said the

organisation welcomed the proposal. “This increase to the social housing stock in Lancefield will particularly benefit vulnerable clients in the over 55s age group. Housing affordability for our community’s older generation is a very real and concerning issue, particularly for people living by themselves,“ Ms Maher said. “The rising cost of living is placing increased strain on people which can impact their health and wellbeing and this investment in affordable housing will improve the lives of a number of people in our community.” Council said three of the five existing units have tenants inside them and these people

would be offered accommodation during the build. Macedon Ranges mayor Annette Death said council had reviewed its existing social housing stock at sites in Gisborne, Romsey and Lancefield before choosing the latter as best suited to redevelopment. “We’re grateful for this funding and it is an incredibly worthwhile opportunity to provide a safe home to more of our residents who may be doing it tough for a variety of reasons,” she said “The proposed site at Lancefield is already going some way towards supporting social housing, but this proposal would significantly improve that offering.”

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Road safety crackdown Speeding motorists were caught out by police in the Macedon Ranges during an 18-day road safety operation during the Christmas and New Year period, with 75 drivers fined. In the Macedon Ranges, there were 104 offences during the 18-day operation. In Hume, there was 29 offences total recorded. With many Victorians expected to take extended holidays over the January period, police are warning motorists not to be complacent on the roads.

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The 2024 Summertime Fling Cellar Door Festival will run up until January 28. Pictured are Olly and Renata at Lyons Will Estate. (Ljubica Vrankovic)

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Savour the summertime It’s time to wine down in the Macedon Ranges with the 2024 Summertime Fling Cellar Door Festival in full swing. The month-long extravaganza of wine, food, and fun has kicked off across the Macedon Ranges, with each weekend of the festival offering a different selection of events hosted by a number of wineries. The Macedon Ranges Vignerons Association welcomed back its festival for the fourth year running, with wine enthusiasts and festival-goers invited to immerse themselves in the scenic beauty of the region alongside live music, local produce and most importantly, good vibes. Lyons Will Estate owner and wine maker Renata Morello said the festival has become a signature celebration season, drawing visitors from Melbourne and beyond to experience

the unique charm of the Macedon Ranges. “Summertime Fling is a really great event across the cellar doors that gets people to visit the Macedon Ranges,” she said. “We are very accessible and just an hour away from Melbourne. “Summertime Fling is not just about wine, it’s a celebration of the countryside and being outdoors. Most wineries are set against beautiful backdrops and open spaces, great for the kids to run around while the parents are out enjoying some delicious wine.” Morello invites guests to Aperitivo Fridays at Lyons Will Estate, where they can unwind from 4- 6pm during summer afternoons. Enjoy a glass of wine or a rose spritz, accompanied by small bites, creating the perfect start to the weekend. Details: https://shorturl.at/cinH3

Voting is now open for Hume council’s Highlights Photography Competition. There are two competition categories featuring photos of Hume’s natural landscape and Hume’s built environment. A first and second prize will be awarded for each category. To cast your vote, scroll through the gallery of entries and click on the photo you would like to vote for and hit the ‘like’ button underneath the title and description. Voting closes on January 21. Details:https://shorturl.at/desAN

Apply to volunteer Macedon Ranges council is encouraging locals to find out more about volunteering opportunities available through council - including the new aged care volunteer visitors scheme. Register your interest through council’s new volunteer portal. Details: https://shorturl.at/ceOT7 FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Sunbury & Macedon Ranges Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

NO ONE’S UNSINKABLE To all those Unsinkable Guys out there – You might think it’s safe to have a few drinks around water, skip the life jacket when you’re out on the boat or go for a swim without checking the conditions. But statistics prove that 4 out of 5 drownings are men. Just remember that no one’s unsinkable.

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Kitchen couple receive OAMs January 31 Neil and Marianne Williams have spent a decade helping feed those who need a hot meal. The pair’s service to the community of Sunbury, through the Sunbury Neighbourhood Kitchen, has earned them each a medal of the Order of Australia (OAM). They have no idea who might have nominated them, but having touched so many lives tackling local food insecurity, it’s no wonder they made the prestigious list. “We’ve never had this sort of recognition in our whole life,” Ms Williams said, while

her husband described receiving the news as “humbling”. “It’s a great honour, we don’t do anything to get recognition, we just do it for our great community,” he said. Ms Williams said through their business, N&M Catering and Event Party Hire, they had done what they could to support local initiatives, such as SunFest, the Sunbury RSL and the Rotary Club of Sunbury, but wanted to do more. “Neil and I had come to have an idea with our leftover food items from our catering business to help the homeless and the people who were

in need,” she said. “September 2013, 10 years ago, was when Neil and I, with the support of the Rotary club of Sunbury, commenced a community kitchen.” From there, they began cooking and providing hot meals to those who were less fortunate. And then it continued to grow. “After three years, the community kitchen became its own stand alone charity organisation, with over 45 volunteers, providing over 220 meals every week,” she said. The president and vice president of the kitchen said its success could not have been

without its team of great volunteers and ongoing community support. Every Monday – kicking off again in February 2023 – the kitchen is open at Sunbury Memorial Hall for people to arrive and take something warm and nourishing. Ms Williams said you’d have to sit with her “for a week” in order to tell you how many people have had their lives improved through a meal. “From Sunbury Neighbourhood Kitchen other communities have been created and there are so many beautiful stories of how people have achieved [since they’ve come to us].”

Crossing into a new life June 6 A Sunbury local has waved goodbye to Killara Primary School after helping generations of children safely cross the road. Crossing supervisor Leanne Janner retired on Friday, June 2, after almost 24 years in the role. Ms Janner said she started the job over two decades ago to supplement her income as a personal care worker. “It’s funny because one of my boys actually went to Killara [at the time] and was quite embarrassed,” she said. “I was doing personal care work [at the time]…and I needed something else to bring in some more income and I thought it would fit in perfectly with the shifts.” Ms Janner said the highlight of her time as a crossing supervisor is seeing the children grow up and eventually getting to help the next

generation get safely to school. “I’ve seen children that went to Killara, and their children now go to Killara, so I’ve been able to see two generations, which is just fabulous,” she said. “The kids are just absolutely beautiful and I have formed friendships out of that with the parents [as well].” Ms Janner said it is important for drivers to be concentrating when they are driving through a school zone and not to be sidetracked by what’s going on. “I try to look out for all children as if they were my own boys,” she said. “You want to make them feel safe, especially with speed limits as many cars don’t stick to the limit.” “It gives the kids some security too… [and] the feeling that someone is looking out for them… [so] they feel safe and comfortable. “[My time there] has been an absolute pleasure.”

Leanne Janner at Killara Primary School where she has been a crossing supervisor for almost 24 years. (Damjan Janevski) 337422_01

Where to pick up your FREE SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES Bulla BP Service Station - Bulla 84-86 Bulla Road Bulla Jack McKenzie Community Centre 11 Green Street Clarkefield Coach and Horses Inn - Clarkfield 50 Station Street Diggers Rest FoodWorks 22 Glitter Road Diggers Rest Diggers Rest Post Office 76 Old Calder Highway Diggers Rest Houdinis Cafe e Cucina 52-56 Old Calder Highway Gisborne Gisborne Village Fresh Brantome Street Gisborne Morgan’s SUPA IGA Gisborne Brantome Street Gisborne Brad Teal Real Estate - Gisborne 40 Aitken Street Gisborne Kennedy Hunt Real Estate - Gisborne 33 Brantome Street Gisborne Gisborne Real Estate - Gisborne 38 Brantome Street Gisborne Raine & Horne Real Estate 42 Brantome Street Gisborne Gisborne Library 8 Hamilton Street Gisborne Foodworks - Gisborne 24 Hamilton Street Gisborne Macedon Ranges Health Service 76 Hamilton Street Gisborne Gisborne Nursing Home - The Oaks 5 Neal Street Gisborne Puma Service Station Gisborne 23 Robertson Street Gisborne Caltex Service Station - Gisborne 4 Station Street Kyneton Kuppers Fuel Stop - Kyneton 199 Burton Avenue Kyneton RT Edgar Real Estate - Kyneton 10 High Street Kyneton Kyneton Newsagency 95 Mollison Street Kyneton Kyneton Shire Offices 129 Mollison Street Lancefield Lancefield Newsagency 18 High Street Macedon United Service Station - Macedon 313 Black Forest Drive Macedon IGA Supermarket - Macedon 20 Victoria Street Macedon Macedon Newsagency 25 Victoria Street Malmsbury General Store 75 Mollison Street Monegeeta Newsagency 2076 Melbourne-Lancefield Road Mount Macedon Mt Macedon Post Office 341 Mt Macedon Road Riddells Creek Riddells Creek Nursery 675 Kilmore Road Riddells Creek Riddells Creek Post Office 80 Main Road Riddells Creek Foodies - Riddells Creek 86-88 Main Road Riddells Creek Riddells Creek Supermarket 2 Station Street Romsey Chess Property - Romsey 102 Main Street Romsey IGA Supermarket - Romsey 107 Main Street

Sunbury Leeburn and Co Real Estate - Sunbury 6 Brook Street Sunbury Sunbury Newsagency 14 Brook Street Sunbury The Jolly Miller cafe Shop 2/2 Brook Street Sunbury The Jolly Miller cafe Shop 2/2 Brook Street Sunbury The Local Sunbury Bottleshop Shop 2b/15-17 Dornoch Drive Sunbury Goonawarra General Store 23-25 Dornoch Drive Sunbury Sunbury Neighbourhood House 531 Elizabeth Drive Sunbury Brad Teal Real Estate Sunbury 54 Evans Street Sunbury Reliant Real Estate 11/114-126 Evans Street Sunbury Muffin Break Shop 2/24 Evans Street Sunbury Sunbury Square Shopping Centre Shop 2-28 Evans Street Sunbury Terry White Chemist 83-85 Evans Street Sunbury Gap Road Medical Centre 46 Gap Road Sunbury United Fuel Sunbury 47 Gap Road Sunbury 7-Eleven Sunbury 128 Gap Road Sunbury Asia Finest Shop 4&5, 106-126 Gap Road Sunbury Puma Service Station Sunbury 96 Horne Street Sunbury Woolworths Supermarket 25-47 Horne Street Sunbury Big W - Sunbury 25-47 Horne Street Sunbury BP Service Station 53-55 Horne Street Sunbury Sunbury Day Hospital 7 Macedon Street Sunbury Hume Council Offices - Sunbury 40 Macedon Street Sunbury Sunbury Information Centre 43 Macedon Street Sunbury Sunbury Library 44 Macedon Street Sunbury Community Health Centre Unit 12-28 Macedon Street Sunbury McKwen Drive Milk Bar Shop 1-3 McEwen Drive Sunbury Foodworks Bottlemart on Melba 16 Melba Avenue Sunbury Foodworks on Melba 16-18 Melba Avenue Sunbury Melba Cafe 22 Melba Avenue Sunbury Mitchells Lane Milk Bar 192 Mitchells Lane Sunbury Just Planet 37 O’Shannesy Street Sunbury An Apple a Day Natural Health Store 49 O’Shannesy Street Sunbury The Spotted Owl 93 O’Shannesy Street Sunbury Cafe Circe 109 O’Shannesy Street Sunbury IGA Supermarket - Sunbury 98-122 O’Shannesy Street

Sunbury Killara Family Store - Sunbury 57 Phillip Drive Sunbury Strathearn Glen Corner Store 10 Strathearn Drive Sunbury Sacco & Saba Cafe 2/20-30 Sussex Street Sunbury Rosenthal Shopping Centre 90 Vineyard Road Tylden Tylden Store 36 Trentham Road Woodend Keatings Real Estate - Woodend 83 Calder Highway Woodend Coles Supermarket - Woodend 61 High Street Woodend II cafe 66 High Street Woodend Andrews Cafe 77 High Street Woodend Fox in the Chamber 90 High Street Woodend Jellis Craig Real Estate - Woodend 91 High Street Woodend Maison Maloa Licensed Cafe & Gifts 95 High Street Woodend Woodend Newsagency 101 High Street Woodend Paysanne Cafe 112 High Street Woodend Bourkies Bake House 115 High Street Woodend RT Edgar Real Estate - Woodend 124 High Street Woodend BP Service Station - Woodend 130 High Street Woodend Woodend Community Centre High Street & Forest Street

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10 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 9 January, 2024

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Speech cancellation a ‘miscommunication’ April 11 Hume council has blamed “miscommunication” after cancelling and rebooking the 2022 NAIDOC Pride Winner’s speech at a council event due to concern about “backlash from conservative council members“. Kitty Obsidian was approached by a Hume council worker on Instagram in January to speak at its International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Lesbophobia and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT) event in May. After accepting the offer, Kitty was told council would have to cancel due to “concerns about backlash from our conservative council members and their supporters“. “About a week after… the Posie Parker rally with the Nazis… I received another message [from the worker] being like ‘so sorry we actually can’t go ahead with the booking’,“ Kitty said. Kitty asked why and was told the council had concerns about backlash and that they previously had issues with neo-Nazis he told The Times.

“So at some sort of previous event they’ve had some issues and they are now worried about backlash because of who I am as a performer and activist,” Kitty said. “I said to them I am incredibly disappointed and upset and hurt. “As an Aboriginal, queer, trans person [and] as a performer I don’t know why I would be considered inappropriate to speak on IDAHOBIT day. “That’s quite literally what IDAHOBIT day is for.” Hume council said it was an internal miscommunication and the team takes full responsibility. The council said Kitty’s performance was cancelled prematurely due to concerns about issues of safety, given similar events in the country have caused disruption. After publicly posting the messages cancelling her booking, Kitty was inundated with support. “I had lots of people turn around and go ‘I’ve actually messaged … called … and emailed

the council to ask why they think this is an appropriate response’,“ Kitty said. “As far as I’m concerned it’s that community backlash that meant my offer was put back on the table … I [don’t] believe there was a miscommunication. “I replied [to the email]... that I would like them to clarify what exactly it was that was miscommunicated and misunderstood. “They are refusing to tell me what the miscommunication was in writing, they only want to do it either in-person or over the phone. “I refuse to, I want everything in writing.” Council chief executive Sheena Frost said council apologises and fully acknowledges its mistakes. “We sincerely apologise for the stress this has caused not only Kitty, but also members and allies of the LGBTIQA+ and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island communities,” Ms Frost said. “Officers have reached out to Kitty – fully acknowledging our internal mistakes – and welcome Kitty to join us on Wednesday, May 17.”

Kitty Obsidian at the Vic NAIDOC gala, a few days after she was named the 2022 NAIDOC Pride Winner. (Supplied)

Hume to fine hoons August 22

Sukhdeep Kaur and Jaswinder Singh are facing deportation by July 2. (Damjan Janevski) 338186_05

Family left ‘in the dark’ June 6 A Sunbury family is petitioning to gain permanent residency in Australia after being told on May 29 that they have 35 days to leave their children behind and the country they have lived in since 2015. A petition, which has gained more than 13,000 signatures, was launched in December 2022 for the Kaur and Singh family to stay in Australia after they claimed they were exploited by their sponsor. Sukhdeep Kaur and Jaswinder Singh moved to Australia in 2015 on a 457 work visa with their two children from northern India. “We wanted to set up our life [in Australia],” Mrs Kaur said. “We thought it was a good country for our children too, that’s why we are here and we worked very hard. “I started around four years ago to work in a cook position at Gisborne Peak Winery… and I have another job at Kyneton Woolworths in customer service.”

Mrs Kaur said the Gisborne Peak Winery owners, who also employ her husband, have been supportive but the family’s financial circumstances, a lack of awareness of Australia’s immigration laws and no family contacts in Australia had contributed to their situation and the harsh reality of deportation. “We are feeling very depressed,” Mrs Kaur said as tears rolled down her face. “[Our] 187 [visa application] was refused… completely denied and we have 35 days [from May 29] to leave the country. “We have suffered a lot the last eight years and we have been living in limbo with no certainty. “I have no words to express, we are in the dark side of life.” Mrs Kaur and Mr Singh have two children together, a 25 year old son who is working on an application for a permanent visa and a 20 year old daughter who has been offered a permanent visa. At 46 years of age, Mrs Kaur cannot apply for

permanent residency due to her age. “My daughter is 20 years old…she’s emotionally and financially dependent on us,” Mrs Kaur said. “We have nothing [in India], it’s very hard for us to survive there. “I don’t know what we will do, since [May 29] we are in the dark, we don’t know what we will do.” With the deportation date of July 2 looming, the Kaur and Singh family contacted Hawke MP Sam Rae and said he has been helpful in seeking advice from the Minister for Immigration, Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs on their behalf. Mr Rae said he has directly raised the case with the office of Immigration Minister Andrew Giles but cannot comment on the specifics of individual cases due to privacy. “I always advocate for the people of Hawke,” Mr Rae said. “Our community is richer for welcoming multicultural families to our great country.” Details: https://rb.gy/isqbb

Hume council is cracking down on hoons with the adoption of a local law banning people from attending a hoon event or parking within 200 metres of one. At its meeting on August 14, Hume council adopted its general purposes local law number one 2023, which will come into operation at 12.01am, September 4. Under the new local law a person must not participate in, encourage or attend a hoon event. Drivers must also not stop or park within 200 metres of a vehicle involved in a hoon event, for the purposes of attending. Councillor Naim Kurt said he was pleased to see the new local laws which were a significant body of work. “I’m really pleased to see stronger measures in the local laws about hoon driving,” Cr Kurt said. “This is a message to hoon drivers now and those that attend those events that they are now on notice. “Through this local law and through the police force as well, they will now have the powers to go after those who enter those events and endanger people’s lives and property. “This is the result of a number of years of hard work by officers and also councillors listening to our community.” This adoption follows Brimbank council’s introduction of anti-hoon laws in January 2018, which was a state first. In the first three years, 327 infringements were issued in Brimbank. Under the new local laws, retailers who provide shopping trolleys for customers must ensure their name and trading name are clearly marked. Retailers with more than 25 trolleys must also ensure each trolley has a coin operated lock or perimeter constraint system attached to it. Cr Jim Overend said the issue of shopping trolleys dumping is one of the biggest burdens. “I cannot stand the shopping trolleys that have been dumped everywhere,” he said. “Having them to now be coin operated is going to make a big difference.” Residents can report local laws that get broken to their councillor or directly through council channels via phone, email and its website.

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Elective surgery delays January 31 In the four years Brendan Thorneloe has waited to have his hip replaced, he’s felt himself slipping away from the world. The 57-year-old Sunbury resident was a truck driver and labourer before he had to stop working in 2018 due to the excruciating pain. He said he was put on the category two elective surgery waiting list at Western Health back then, but still has no idea when he’ll be treated. “I’m fed up. I just want it fixed,” he said. “I just want to go back to work.” Since then, his sense of isolation has steadily increased – even doing the shopping is hard some days – so catching up with friends and fostering relationships is difficult when he’s in pain all the time. “In 2021, just before we were locked down again, there was preparation for me to get it done. But as soon as the lockdown came in, it was called off,” he said. “It’s debilitating some days. Some days it’s good depending on the weather.” Mr Thorneloe is emblematic of the elective surgery backlog, which the Australian Medical Association (AMA) said is expected to reach more than 500,000 by June this year “if no action is taken by governments”. AMA president Professor Steve Robson said the country needs a national plan to address the backlog, with “an immediate injection of funds required”. “The AMA is calling for a new funding agreement between the state and territories and the Commonwealth that includes an upfront advance payment provided by the Commonwealth to support state and territory governments to expand their capacity (including workforce) to address the elective surgery backlog,” the AMA said.

For peace of mind September 29

Brendan Thorneloe has been waiting years to have his hip replaced. (Elsie Lange)

Professor Robson said there also needed to be more data on waiting lists reported more regularly and transparently. According to Victorian Agency for Health Information data, as of September 2022 the wait list for category two elective surgeries at Western Health was 3400 patients long. While Western Health could not comment on Mr Thorneloe’s individual situation due to confidentiality,

acting chief operating officer Jason Plant said they would continue working with the Department of Health on the management of patients on the planned surgery wait list. On Friday, January 27, after Star Weekly raised Mr Thorneloe’s case with the health service, he said he received a call to arrange an appointment to discuss his concerns, though a date as not yet been set.

Gift yourself a new style of life on the Surf Coast in 2024 * Less maintenance * More holidays * More exercise * Meet new people * Walk to shopping centre * Close to amenities

A Macedon Ranges pilot program, Branch Out, is working to provide better mental health support for primary school-aged children through tailored events and resources. The council-led program was researched and co-designed with local primary schools over a number of years, and takes an evidence-based, preventative whole-school approach in engaging teachers, parents and students. The program is being implemented through music and theatre, training and seminars for parents and teachers, youth mental health first aid training and building mental health literacy and referral pathways. Council’s director community Maria Weiss said Branch Out was a great example of a collaborative initiative to make a difference to the lives of children. “Childhood is an important time for development, providing the foundation for future learning, behaviour and health, so it’s important we have the right supports in place,” she said. “We also know parents may need support and guidance if their child is experiencing difficulties. “The program recognises this by working collaboratively with parents and schools to help children build their confidence and resilience.” The program is currently being piloted at Woodend and Kyneton primary schools until October, with the aim of extending it to all primary schools in the Macedon Ranges.

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On February 16, 1983, more than 100 fires burned across Victoria and South Australia. Close to home, in the Macedon Ranges, seven lives were lost and hundreds of homes destroyed. Those who were there reflect on Ash Wednesday, speaking with Elsie Lange 40 years after one of Australia’s most well-known and terrifying bushfire events.

Ash Wednesday a ‘perfect storm’ When describing how the wind changed on the hot, dry night of Ash Wednesday, Mount Macedon firefighter Peter Wuthrich suggests imagining a candle flame, flickering, burning upwards. “That little tip [at the top], that’s your fire front, blowing north to south, and it’s about one kilometre wide,” he said. “On Ash Wednesday that candle flame burnt in a southerly direction for 80km. “But when the south westerly [wind] change came through, you now had 80km to 100km of a firefront … when the wind comes from the other side, that whole height of that candle flame is now your fire front, and it tore [towards Macedon and Mount Macedon].” Mr Wuthrich is still a firefighter, 40 years on. He fought the fires which ripped through from East Trentham towards Bullengarook before turning to Macedon and Mount Macedon on February 16, 1983. The inferno killed seven people and destroyed more than 600 buildings. As the wind changed, the narrow fire which raged through the Wombat State Forest became a wide, wild one, fueled by above 40 degree temperatures, low humidity and years of drought. “We were in the middle of a drought. We had no reticulated water on Mount Macedon. Water was in short supply. It was the perfect storm, everything was wrong,” Mr Wuthrich said. He remembers seeing someone who had died trying to escape. One of the hardest things about that night, he said, was trying to fight the hellish blaze in the dark, in choking smoke, showered in cinders. “On the evening of Ash Wednesday I think we started getting calls about 9pm from people saying they could see flames … we went to investigate where the calls were coming from,” Mr Wuthrich remembered. The front came so fast and so violently that people were “evacuating as Macedon was exploding”. “It was basically like incendiaries being dropped on the Macedon township as we drove through,” he said. Seventy-five people died that day when over 100 fires engulfed parts of Victoria and South Australia – 47 in Victoria and 28 in South Australia – as the blistering heat and flames charged through the bone dry bush. On that terrible night, Ian Downing witnessed a firestorm roll through his property in Macedon, on Willeys Road. Then he was caught inside it. He, his late wife Eve and daughter all bore the scars of fighting – Mr Downing was hospitalised for six weeks with 20 per cent burns to his body from the fire. Ninety-year-old Mr Downing was once a firefighter too. Two weeks before Ash Wednesday, from February 1, he’d been fighting a fire on the north face of Mount Macedon, where 50 houses were destroyed. On Ash Wednesday, he was hosing down the back of his home when he saw a spot fire start. “A big fireball came rolling through the hill. I was standing in this big ball of spark … I just dove into the chook house with my head down … and the radiated heat got me on the hands and my nylon underpants melted across my back,” Mr Downing said. “It got too hot there, so I ran around behind the water tank and I cut the plastic white pipe up the tank and doused myself with water. “Then I came inside … my wife had superficial burns on her hands and a bit on her face. “The daughter had been out looking for the horse. And she came in through the back door and the fly wire door was so hot that the aluminium door melted on her back.” His daughter, Jenny Emmins, had gone

Macedon resident Ian Downing, 90, suffered burns to 20 per cent of his body on Ash Wednesday - on his hands and back. (Damjan Janevski) 317058_01

Romsey CFA members Ron Cole and Ralph Hermann.

to bed early that night. Then she saw it was raining embers. “The wind with the fire was just extraordinary, it left the leaves burnt in a horizontal position,” she said. “Both dad and I forgot gloves, he’d worn the wrong clothing. People think it was the flame but it was the radiated heat.” Despite having been caught in the flames, Mr Downing feels he “missed out” on efforts to control Ash Wednesday because he had to be taken to hospital so early. “I had to lay on my guts for a fortnight while they put the skin grafts on. They sew the skin grafts onto your hands, but the one your back [they] just padded it on. I had to lay on my stomach and wait until it settled down,” he said. Romsey firefighter Ralph Hermann was on the mountain. He said leading up to that day, the air and soil were so parched that the “grass would crackle when you walked on it”. “There was the anticipation that something was going to happen. The air was just that dry,” Mr Hermann said.

Woodend CFA members John Keating and Ray Colban.

He said devastation was everywhere on the mountain, “you’re driving through flame”. Fellow Romsey member Ron Cole was fighting a fire out at Tunnel Creek Road in Cherokee earlier in the day, and was patrolling the area when he saw car after car flying towards him. “I’m thinking, they must have closed the highway, and it was all these people coming off the top of the mountain,” he said. “They couldn’t get out to the south or the west, so they came over the top.” John Keating was first lieutenant of the Woodend Country Fire Authority at the time and said they didn’t have “near the protection” that trucks or personal apparel have today. Before the wind changed, he received a mayday call from a truck caught in flame in the Wombat State Forest – Woodend CFA firefighter Ray Colban was on the back of it and he’d only been in the brigade for two years. “[I heard] words to the effect of, ‘mayday, mayday, mayday, we have fire in front of us, fire behind us, we’re going to make a run for

it, stand by’,” Mr Keating said. “That was one of the longest 30 seconds … I have ever experienced, and the relief when [they] radioed back to say … ‘This is RC52, we made it’.” More than 250 people and their pets took refuge from the inferno inside the old Macedon Railway Hotel, spared while much of the township was destroyed. Hundreds were evacuated from their homes and emergency housing remained on Gisborne Oval for nearly two years. Mr Downing said many people’s “psychology went” as they tried to get back up and recover. Mr Cole said as with any disaster, it brought the community together. Reflecting on whether Ash Wednesday lingered in his mind 40 years on, Mr Hermann said if you asked his wife, she’d say yes. “She would say that after major fires there’s a period I go through, maybe just quietly, she used to say, ‘I know you’ve been affected because you just go quiet for a while’,” he said.

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Bill Marshall as ’Captain Fish’, who is a producer of a surrealist festival.

Scotty So was part of an exhibition in Footscray.

Sunflowers were coming into bloom at Bolwarrah Springs which were enjoyed by Kiara, 10, and Bridie, 8.

2023 through Star Weekly’s lens Star Weekly photographer Damjan Janveski shares his favourite pictures from 2023. Meditation teacher Ananya Tomar.

Five-year-old Liahona, and organisers Tonya Toi, Vicki Kinai and Jone Temo at the Tarneit community garden. Patrick Blume in front of his Halloween decorated house.

‘Princess on Skates’ Belle Hadiwidjaja ahead of the Winter Community Festival in Yarraville.

Point Cook personal trainer Chevy Lowndes who collects sneakers and gives them to homeless people.

Hume Anglican Grammar is putting on a production of the Addams Family. Students Treesha, Aria, Freddie, Logan, Stephanie, Harriet and Gurleen. 14 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 9 January, 2024

Max Augoustakis and Zac Main at the radio station where they do a weekly segment called ’Self-Titled’ and they play ‘underground’ music.

Matilda, 8, and Mia, 4, at the Werribee ward set up at Pacific Werribee.

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Monday Magic with grand-friends August 8 While a nine decade age gap may stop some individuals from forging a friendship, members of the Sunbury intergenerational playgroup use this age difference to teach each other social and fine motor skills. The Monday Magic playgroup runs every few weeks and brings together about 30 residents aged between four years old and 95

years old. Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health social support group and respite team leader Roz Walton said the playgroup is beneficial for all participants. “Everyone looks forward to the playgroup … it’s a really exciting day, it gives a lot of energy to the space,” Ms Walton said. “The older participant’s age range is between 75 and 95 years old, and a lot of them may not

have much contact with their own family and so it gives them so much joy. “The benefits of the group are so wide, what they are trying to teach to young people… is the same thing we are trying to keep present in our older participants. “[This includes] fine motor skills, social interaction, and connection to community. “It’s a mutually beneficial program that imparts wisdom and it’s fantastic to see the

smiles on everyone’s faces… and they lovelying call them their grandfriends.” Our Village Family Childcare co-ordinator Marlo Aisbett agreed and said the playgroup is really good for young children, especially when they may not see their grandparents often. “The group brings everyone together,” Ms Aisbett said, “a lot of the children will have grandparents but they may not live close to them.”

Gisborne country singer wins top gong January 21

The documentary premiered on August 9 (Supplied)

Students set for the big screen July 25 Sunbury and Macedon Ranges specialist school has been catapulted to the big screen, with a documentary of its latest production to feature at the Melbourne International Film Festival (MIFF). The documentary, called This Is Going to Be Big, follows director Thomas Hyland and a cohort of about 58 students throughout the production process of their show on John Farnham. The school worked on the production for about six months and performed four

sold out shows at the Mount View Theatre in late March. Mr Hyland said being a part of the documentary has been an absolute joy, and has given the students a chance to tell their stories. “It’s been a lot of fun but quite a moving experience for me,” he said. “Personally I found myself reflecting on my own high school experience in the process. “[The documentary] I think is really a chance for [the students] to tell their own stories to a wider audience. “I think it was a really enriching experience, it’s not everyday that you have a microphone

or camera put in front of you… and to have an audience be there to hear what they have to say.” Mr Hyland said the documentary follows the students outside of the school setting, and will premiere on August 9. “The camera steps inside the classroom and rehearsal room and goes inside some of the students’ homes,” he said. “[It looks] to understand what motivates them in their lives, their dreams and desires and what challenges they might face and what they want out of themselves and the future.” Details: https://rb.gy/zk69g

Gisborne country music artist Craig Lloyd has taken home a prestigious award at the internationally revered Tamworth Country Music Festival in New South Wales. His ballad, ‘Take The Wheel’, written with Merelyn and David Carter, was given the John & Judy Martin Commemorative Award, presented for the best country ballad of the year by the Tamworth Songwriters Association. Lloyd receiving the award was humbling and “wonderful recognition”, especially in the presence of some of the most respected songwriters in Australia. “I am so grateful to the Tamworth Country Music Festival for this award,” he said. “To have had the opportunity to collaborate on the writing of ‘Take The Wheel’ with country music legends Carter & Carter is one of the highlights of my music journey.” The artist said his love for country music started when he was living in England listening to musicians like Garth Brooks and Allan Jackson. These songwriters have influenced his style in both performing and writing. Whether it’s his own tale, that of a friend or something completely fictional, Lloyd is passionate about telling stories through song. “Take The Wheel is about the times in a person’s life when they are seeking out help, maybe from a higher being, following some bad decisions, or to deal with a difficult situation,” he said. The Gisborne man said living in the town had strengthened his connection to country music, as well as his belief in the power of community.

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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 pool party Dive into the school holiday fun at the Woodend pool party on Tuesday, January 16. The day will feature music and a sausage sizzle at the Woodend swimming pool and will run from noon-3pm. Standard pool entry fee applies.

Sunbury Youth Centre open day Sunbury Youth Centre are opening the doors, with a full day of games and fun activities. The youth centre is suitable for young people aged 12-18 who are looking for a place to hang out during the holidays. Snacks and drinks are provided. The open day will take place on Wednesday, January 17, from 2-6pm at the Sunbury Youth Centre, 51-53 Evans Street, Sunbury.

Outdoor cinema Movie lovers are invited to Macedon Ranges’ outdoor cinema event to enjoy a free screening of Barbie. There will be a sausage sizzle and popcorn, but be sure to bring your own outdoor chair. The movie night will take place on Thursday, January 18 at Old Kyneton Primary School (basketball court), 7-15 Baynton Street, Kyneton from 6-9pm.

Gisborne skate event The Gisborne Skate, BMX and Scoot comp is back for 2024. The event is free to join and there will be free food to refuel, plus a live band. The comp will take place on Saturday, January 20, from 11am-4pm at the Gisborne Skatepark, 2 Hamilton Street, Gisborne.

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

This week’s photographer’s choice photo is of sisters Emily and Sally Anglin getting their car ready for shitbox rally this year. (Damjan Janevski) 371717_01

robin competition from 7.30-9.30pm. All welcome to attend at Clarke Oval Stadium, 49 Riddell 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

Chill Out Sunbury Chill Out Sunbury is a free event for 12 and 18 years old to participate in activities such as trivia, games, and more. Happening every Wednesday, 3.30-5.30pm at the Sunbury Youth Centre, 51-53 Evans Street. ■ https://bit.ly/3lmVgVhv

Probus Club Of Sunbury Join the Probus Club of Sunbury on the first Wednesday of the month at the Sunbury Bowling club at 9.30am. It’s a friendly men’s group open to visitors and new members, with a number of great events held each month. ■ Greg, 0417593035

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

Come have a chat Delve into deeper topics and enjoy intriguing conversations by joining the Table 8 Discussion Group. Chats every Tuesday from 10.30-11.30am at Macedon Lounge, 40 Victoria Street, Macedon. ■ Carol, 0431 186 575

Sunbury Family History and Heritage Society If you’ve got a hankering to learn more about Sunbury and your own family history, come along to meetings at 1.30pm on the third Thursday of each month at the Sunbury Senior Citizens Centre, 8 O’Shanassy Street, Sunbury. ■ https://bit.ly/3jvM6oJ

Rotary club The Sunbury Rotary Club meets every Tuesday at the Ball Court Hotel, 60 Macedon Street, Sunbury from 7pm. ■ sunburyrotary@gmail.com

Sunbury Badminton Club

Ladies probus

The Sunbury Badminton Club plays social games on Tuesdays and Wednesdays nights from 7.30-9.30 pm, and on Wednesdays 10am-12pm. Monday night is a round

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

Sunbury Art Society

■ 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 and 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

The Sunbury Art Society meets each Friday and Saturday from 10am-3pm at the Boilerhouse, Jacksons Hill, to paint or draw over a cuppa with other like minded people. ■ Ken, 0407 062 568, or Robyn, 0438 383 639

Crafternoon Get crafty over a cuppa at a social group for adults. Some supplies and equipment are available or bring your own projects and craft items. Every Tuesday at 1pm-3pm during school terms, all welcome. Sunbury Neighbourhood House, 531 Elizabeth Drive, Sunbury. ■ www.sunburyhouse.com.au

Music and Singalong Bring your instrument or your voice to a social group for adults. Songs with lyrics and chords can be viewed on the big screen, all skill sets welcome. Wednesdays 9am-noon, at Sunbury Neighbourhood House, 531 Elizabeth Drive, Sunbury. ■ www.sunburyhouse.com.au

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

Jacksons Creek Combined Probus The club meets on the second Monday of each month at the Sunbury Football Club at 10am. This friendly group of men and women enjoy outings and meetings each month and twice yearly trips away staying in cabins and caravans. Visitors and new members are warmly welcomed ■ Doug 54283317, or Teresa 0417373006

Local camera club The Macedon Ranges Photographic Society is your local camera club for friendship, photographic outings, workshops, guest presenters, competitions and more. Meetings on the first Tuesday of the month, followed by the next Monday. Doors open at 7pm, meeting starts at 7.30pm at Dromkeen, 1012 Kilmore Road, Riddells Creek. ■ https://bit.ly/41j5BEw

Breast cancer support group On the first and third Tuesday of the month breast cancer survivors are invited to head along to the Gisborne Golf Club at 10.30am to take part in a breast cancer support group. ■ Lesley, 0484 691 226

Village connect Enjoy free coffee and cake while connecting with fellow Macedon Ranges residents 55 years old and older. Happening on Tuesdays and Thursday at cafes across the municipality. ■ https://bit.ly/3AMUrxm, or 5422 0262

Craft and conversation Head down to the Sunbury Library on Mondays at noon for the craft and conversation group. The program is free and open to people aged 15 years and older. ■ https://bit.ly/39BIu2O

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

Tuesday, 9 January, 2024 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 17

PUZZLES No. 167

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

3 7 8 9

8 4 3

5 4 5 1

8 2

2 4

3 4 9

5 6

2 6 8

2 3 8

9 5 5 7

9 3 7 2 1 5 8 4 4 2

1 6 3 9

8 7 5 6 9 8 7 4

DOWN

26 27

Courier (9) North African country (7) Delete (5) Approximately (10) Blemishes (4) Sudden violent invasion (9) Fantasise (7) Sibling’s daughter (5) Process of turning on (10) Specify (9) Athlete (9) Cyclone (7) An addition (7) Crawl (5) EU currency units (5) Historical alcoholic drink (4)

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 13 15 16 18 19 20 22 23

Mother (3) Deportation (11) Family name (7) Deliver commentary (7) Abstained from (8) Positive aspect (6) Earth (prefix) (3) Members (11) Punishment (10) State of agitation (3) Body (6) Shoeless (8) Exude (7) Arabic derivative of Abraham (7) Series of events (11) Sprinted (3)

9 medium

ACROSS 1 3 9 10 11 12 14 15 17 19 20 21 24 25

No. 167

DECODER

No. 167

7 hard

7 4

3 9

9 1 6 3

6 7

10 11 12 13

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

W L

3 LETTERS AGE ANT AWE DOE EBB ERA FBI FUN ILL INN IRE LEE LEG NOD OKS ONE PEN RAT SOB TEN UPS UTE

ARMED AROMA AVAIL BELOW CIDER CREPE DETER DITTO DOONA ENVOY ERODE GLOVE HERDS INERT LOCAL MACED MESSY NOBLE NOOSE OATHS OMEGA

Today’s Aim: 12 words: Good 18 words: Very good

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

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

No. 167 Insert the missing letters to make 10 words – five reading across the grid and five reading down. NOTE: more than one solution may be possible

L O S

18 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 9 January, 2024

B A R D S A W A R E S A L O N

4 LETTERS BEEF ENDS GAIT GOSH MOTH PEWS SLAP STEM THUS TRIM 5 LETTERS ADORE AFOOT ALIBI ALONE ALTER

PASTY PIANO PLATE PURSE REAPS REEDS RINSE ROSES SCENE SCRAP SCRUB SLAIN SNEER STABS STALE SWATS SWEET TAPED TASTE TESTS WADES

WOMEN 6 LETTERS BAMBOO CAGIER INHALE KOALAS RELAYS SILENT 7 LETTERS AMMONIA ATLASES BLISTER

BRITTLE LIAISON RENEWAL 8 LETTERS CLEAVERS CLENCHED CRITERIA TORTILLA 10 LETTERS DISPENSING HINTERLAND

12-01-24

T Y L

clod, coal, coda, coil, cola, cold, coma, domicil, halo, hold, holm, HOMICIDAL, idiom, idol, lido, load, loam, loch, loci, macho, milo, mocha, modal, moil

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

O A

Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

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”.

24 words: Excellent

hard

medium

9-LETTER WORD

No. 167

* $ , 7

T O R XN P CMF DH E Z

2 3 easy

5x5

8 7 1 4

5 2

Y V B G J K U Q S I AW L

WORDFIT

QUICK QUIZ

Marmosets are native to which continent?

True or false: Kevin Costner (pictured) has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame?

Which country led the medal tally at the 2012 London Olympic Games?

Walt Whitman died during which century?

Harissa is what type of food?

The mausoleum of Madghacen is located in which African country?

Actor Andy Griffith received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from which US president?

Does Ben or Fred Savage play Cory Matthews in Boy Meets World?

Manama is the capital of which country?

10 A coati is what type of animal?

ANSWERS: 1. South America 2. True 3. Chilli paste 4. Algeria 5. Ben 6. Bahrain 7. The US 8. 19th 9. George W. Bush 10. Mammal

QUICK CROSSWORD

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

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Taskmaster of huge proportions By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring Question: does the Navara PRO-4X Warrior, a latecomer to the ranks, have enough to take on the army of talent in one of the most closely fought contests in the Aussie automobile market? With fully armed dual cab pick-ups the likes of the Ford Ranger, Mitsubishi Triton, Toyota HiLux Rugged, Mazda BT50 Thunder, Isuzu’s D-Max and the US Ram holding the line, the Navara Warrior has its work cut out. Not that Nissan isn’t out to giving things a shake, calling on input from local specialist engineer Premcar, to light the fuse. The result is the range topping Navara PRO-4X Warrior by Premcar, tipping the scales at $68,265, plus on-road costs. Premcar has put in its bob’s worth with up-specced suspension, wider track and greater ground clearance, plus a 100kg addition to gross vehicle mass and aggressive new exterior. All were tested in Victoria to meet demands of real off-roading in varied bush, beach, desert and mountain terrain. Premcar has also matched Nissan’s five-year warranty, the latter featuring capped price servicing at 12-month 20,000 kilometre intervals, whichever comes first. Styling Tough guy trappings are not only for show. They are worn to take on the harshest driving conditions, featuring unique Warrior 17-inch alloy wheels wrapped in larger, wider Cooper Discoverer All Terrain tyres. A redesigned towbar is built to carry a full-size spare, and a premium body coloured bulbar with integrated LED light bar, plus tub liner go beyond their good looks with premium practicality.

The Nissan Navara PRO-4X Warrior by Premcar has had the benefit of input by some of the best Aussie engineers in the business.

Interior With upgrades to chassis and suspension weighing in with ride comfort in the toughest going, it’s only natural to complement this with an eight-way power driver’s seat, with lumbar support, and heated front seats. With space for five adults, premium leather accented PRO-4X seats sport Warrior stitching on the front headrests. Dual zone climate control incorporates rear air vents. The back seat base folds up to expose storage spaces underneath. The Navara is well-equipped to carry loads up the back, with four robust tie-down loops low in each corner of the tub and adjustable Utili-Tracks running lengthways along the upper tray. A plastic tub liner completes the cargo carrying set-up. Infotainment The Navara PRO-4X Warrior by Premcar is equipped with an 8-inch colour touchscreen, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in situ for connectivity to a smartphone. Bluetooth hands free is on tap too via steering wheel controls. AM/FM radio with AUX and USB connectivity is run through a six-speaker sound system. There’s one USB-A in console tray, one USB-A and USB-C in the centre console, one USB-A in the rear of the centre console, which is charge Only, plus two 12V Outlets in the console tray and centre console. A 7-inch instrument cluster display includes instant and average fuel economy, distance to empty and average speed. Engines/transmissions Under the bonnet of the PRO-4X Warrior is the 2.3-litre twin-turbo diesel engine found in all 4x4 models in the Navara range, producing 140 kW of power at 3750 rpm and 450 Nm of torque between 1500 and 2500 rpm. The Renault common-rail motor is mated either with a six-speed manual transmission or a seven-speed automatic, driving through a part-time four-wheel drive system with low-range gearing and a locking rear differential. Our test was the latter.

Safety There’s a full suite of Nissan Intelligent Mobility technology with off-road innovation creating a 360-degree ‘shield’ that detects, warns, and intervenes in potential danger in varied driving conditions. Advanced safety systems include blind spot warning and Intelligent blind spot intervention, which alerts of any detected vehicles and actively guides the Navara back into its lane to help prevent a collision. An all-round view monitor with moving object detection presents a 360-degree view of the vehicle when reversing and rear parking sensors pick up any problems in tight spots. Seven airbags - front side seat, curtain and driver’s knee - are fitted. Driving Remote keyless entry and practically placed grab handles make access to the cabin comfortable, while cruise control, high beam assist, rain sensing wipers and a UV and heat rejecting windscreen ease the stress of everyday driving. Needless to say, the performance of the 2.3-litre, four-cylinder twin turbo-diesel motor mated with its seven-speed automatic transmission was more than able to carry the

20 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 9 January, 2024

AT A GLANCE MODEL RANGE Nissan Navara 2.3 SL $47,350 Nissan Navara 2.3 ST $52,455 Nissan Navara 2.3 ST-X $55,945 Nissan Navara SL Warrior $58,750 Nissan Navara PRO-4X $58,905 Nissan Navara PRO-4X Warrior $68,265

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

ute’s aggressive appearance, turning heads time and time again. The maker’s fuel consumption claim is 8.1 litres per 100 kilometres in the combined urban/ highway cycle. Over a week of non-stressed testing on the bitumen the PRO-4X Warrior averaged 10.6 litres per 100 kilometres. It’s not the best in class, but it’s worth remembering the vehicle’s raised ride height and larger, heavier light truck tyres fitted to improve off-road performance, will be detrimental to fuel consumption. A Drive Mode selector allows easy switching

between four modes – normal, sport, off road and towing, while off road, hill descent control and hill start assist adjusts speed on steep inclines, the rear diff lock provides extra traction in challenging going. The innovative Off-Road Monitor presents a clear view of each wheel when taking on tough terrain. The Warrior turns in a towing capacity of 3500kg braked and 750kg unbraked. Off-road stats include 260mm ground clearance and a wading depth of 600mm. Summary The Nissan Navara PRO-4X Warrior by Premcar puts me in mind of HSV and Tickford who raised the popular Holden Commodore and Ford Falcon, respectively, to iconic status. Say no more. Ratings ■ Looks: 8/10 ■ Performance: 6/10 ■ Safety: 8/10 ■ Thirst: 5/10 ■ Practicality: 8/10 ■ Comfort: 7/10 ■ Tech: 8/10 ■ Value: 5/10

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Hawks’ premiership breakthrough September 19 Woodend-Hesket has claimed its first Riddell District Netball League A-grade premiership. After tasting defeat on the biggest stage 12 months earlier in their first grand final, the Hawks came back bigger and better this year. They knocked off minor premiers Riddell in the second week of finals to win straight through to the grand final. The Hawks would then face Riddell again in Sunday’s grand final at Romsey Park. While the record books will show a 46-37 win in the end to the Hawks, it doesn’t tell how close the game really was. It was low scoring early on with the defensives of both sides on top. Turnovers were made and shots missed. Both teams made a number of changes throughout. The Hawks got to a four goal lead in the last quarter but the Bombers weren’t done. Both teams had chances in the dying minutes to win the game, but weren’t able to convert. Scores were locked at 33-apiece at the end of four quarters, sending the game into overtime. From there it was all the Hawks, leading by five goals after the first period of overtime. They kept the momentum going to seal the win. For Hawks playing-coach Meg Grbac it was a pretty special moment that would take a while to sink in. “We had a lot of belief that we could do it,’’ she said. “I think the last two weeks have been so difficult for so many people at the club. “I’m glad that we could get over the line, not just for ourselves, but the whole Woodend-Hesket wide community. “It means so much to be able to make them proud.” Both coaches knew going into the game it was going to be a battle of the defences which it proved to be. Grbac, one of the star defenders of the competition, said that the attackers of both ends were put under a lot of pressure. “The shooters, they eventually found their groove and credit to every single person that stepped out on court,” she said. “I used pretty much the whole squad today [Sunday]. I thought Tilly [Lethlan] was amazing when she came on, Charlee [Duff-Tytler] and Abbs [Gilmore] were equally as awesome when they stepped onto the court also.

Woodend-Hesket celebrate premiership. (Ljubica Vrankovic)

“In all, super, super proud.” While they have the premiership in their hands now, Grbac admits that they were lucky to come away with the win in the end. She said nerves got the better of the side in the final quarter. “The last two minutes of the game we were probably lucky they didn’t get another score on the board to be honest with you,” she said. “I said to them when we went to the bench before extra time, ‘straight away learn from that mistake’ and we’re lucky it didn’t cost us. “They came on the court in extra time brilliantly and really held composure when it mattered.”

Grbac said getting the first goal in overtime was important for the group and they were able to maintain the momentum from there. Defender Ty Coppinger was awarded the medal for the player judged best on court. “She’s absolutely insane,” she said. “We’re so lucky that as a netball club not only to have her and the quality of player she is on the court, but the person she is off the court. “I thought Laura Carland was awesome today in attack and I thought Hayley Rogers in wing defence was awesome too. “It was a whole team effort.” Grbac also paid tribute to netball coordinator Kellie Duff and club co-president

Anne-Louise Lindner for their work in getting the netball program to where it is today. “I can not speak more highly of Kel and Anne-Louise and the work that they’ve done for the netball program,” she said. “I was so lucky to come in three years ago, at such a good time. All the hard work that they’ve put in over the last eight to nine years, they are the ones that have got us here, “First flag for the club ever in A-grade, it’s pretty amazing. It doesn’t happen in one season, it’s been building over time. “I’m so lucky to be part of a netball program with both of them.”

Bulldogs pull off miracle in final minutes of decider September 26 Gisborne pulled off a remarkable last five minutes to snatch the Bendigo Netball League premiership from the clutches of defeat. Four-time reigning champion Sandhurst seemed destined to make it five in a row late in the fourth quarter of the grand final on Saturday at Queen Elizabeth Oval. The undefeated Dragons had been up by five goals for much of the last quarter and the Bulldogs were on the back foot. For the young Bulldogs line up didn’t give up. Despite being five goals down with five minutes to go they started to chip away. Things started to go their way and the margin started to close. With 30 seconds on the clock the Bulldogs took the lead having scored the last six goals. With the centre pass to come, they were able to hold onto the ball, to win the premiership 40-39. Bulldogs coach Tarryn Rymer said it was an incredible feeling to achieve that result. “We are ecstatic,” she said. “I’m so proud of the girls for pushing to the front in the dying seconds of the game, it was brilliantly crafted. “They have earnt it. They worked so hard all season to get the ultimate reward, I didn’t expect that.

“I knew they were capable of it, they kept pushing and getting better and better.” Rymer said the first key for them heading into the match was making sure they got off to a good start. The Dragons had usually got control of the game early, with the Bulldogs having to do the chasing. The closest the Bulldogs had come to the Dragons was in the second week of finals. “We started well,” Rymer said. “We knew that we wanted to do that and keep with them and keep the pressure on them. “We started with the first four goals and you could tell in the first five minutes they had turned up to play. “We were up at half time.” The Dragons found another gear in the third quarter to take the lead and put the pressure back on the Bulldogs. The margin was two goals at the final change and then became five goals. Rymer said there were a few nerves on the side lines as the game seemed to be getting out of reach. Star defender was struggling to put pressure on her foot for parts of the last quarter, throwing more into the mix. “It’s not over until the final whistle,” she said. “I knew we had to put our foot down, which I was hoping they would do, “It’s easy to fade away in the last quarter. We

Gisborne’s A-grade premiers. (Supplied)

kept doing what we had been doing and had a crack. “A few things went our way and a few turnovers and 30 seconds left we were in front.” Rymer was counting down the clock in the last 30 seconds as the girls were able to hold onto the ball and ensure the win. Goaler Claudia Mawson was named best on court for her performance. The premiership is the club’s second A-grade premiership, 10 years after their first one. Midcourter Tiana Newman was in that team making her a two-time premiership player.

Rymer was also part of that team. For the Bulldogs this year, it was the start of a new beginning with a number of changes in the off season with that next generation coming through. “We had a few players turn over with other commitments,” she said. “There was so much belief and improvement. “Tori Skrijel from the under-17s and building that connection with Claudia.” It was a mixed day for the Bulldogs with their under-17s also claiming the premiership, while their A-reserve and B-grade both suffered losses. Rymer said the under-17 match was as thrilling as the A-grade game. “They were down all day and got a few turnovers and the scores were level,” she said. “They were asking how long was left and it was 10 seconds and it was our centre pass. Bella Connors at the top of the circle made the shot. If anyone could have made the shot it was Bella.” Rymer said while they would have loved to have claimed all four premierships, the two premierships they won were a credit to the whole netball program. “Without the depth to push the others, we don’t win,” she said. The Bulldogs under-18.5 footballers also tasted premiership success on Saturday.

Tuesday, 9 January, 2024 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 21

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Kyneton Golf claims title March 14

The team celebrates its premiership win. (Jacob Pattison) 345526_19

Tigers perfect season August 8 The years of hard work have paid off for Kyneton as it celebrates its first women’s football premiership. Having started their women’s program back in 2014, it took the Tigers until their third competition, the Riddell District Football League, to claim a premiership. There’s been plenty of highs and heartache along the way, but the time is now for the Tigers who are the winners of the inaugural RDFL women’s premiership. Natalie Korinfsky has been part of the Tigers program since day one and has been one of the main drivers of the program, having taken on a number of different roles. She said there were still three or four of the original team still part of the club. “It’s unbelievable,” she said. “It’s one of the best feelings you can ever have as a player. “There’s been a lot of lows and we’ve come out on the other side. If you stick to it, good things will come to you. “We stuck to the game style that [coach] Phil [Hawkes] wanted. We had really players come in and want to improve themselves, it just meant we got better and better every week.” Both Korinfsky and Hawkes knew that the

Cats were going to bring the pressure. There was a big crowd at Gilbert Gordon Oval for the match which was held under lights. The Tigers led by five points at quarter time, having not made the most of their opportunities. Jordan Savoia kicked two goals to extend the lead, before the Cats kicked of their own through Lauren Roberts, their first goals against the Tigers for the season. Savoia got her third to give the Tigers a 13 point lead at the main break. The Tigers managed to keep that gap throughout the second half and two second half goals sealed the 5.13 (43)-3.2 (20) win. Hawkes said he had some nerves before the game, but once the game got underway they settled. He said the Cats showed a lot of fight throughout the game. “We knew they would probably bring the pressure, but it was a little more than expected,“ he said. “They were ferocious at the ball and I know what they were trying to do was put pressure on our players that they couldn’t get that open style of play going. “For the first quarter and probably even most of the game, that was working reasonably well

for them. “The game opened up later in the game. They fought all the way, well done to Macedon.” Both Korinfsky and Hawkes said they knew with a few minutes left they had done enough to seal the premiership and were able to enjoy it. Alex Strawhorn was awarded the best on ground medal. Savoia, Teagan Ainslie and Belinda Hateley were among the other standouts. Hawkes said the victory and the perfect season, had been a few years in the making. “That is just a dream,” he said. “We didn’t really expect that, we knew we were improving. “We did some work in the previous season in the Bendigo league and probably should have played finals. “I knew it was coming together but it was a bit unknown, it was all new sides for us. “The standard is not bad and I think we went up another notch this year, another level. It was great to be able to do that.” Korinfsky said to see a full house like that with everyone loving women’s football was something that you want to see across the state. As well as the women’s side’s first premiership, it was the club’s first senior premiership since 1997.

Kyneton Golf entered the Central Highlands Bowls Division finals quietly confident despite finishing fourth in division 1. Last season’s runners-up managed to knock off Gisborne in the first round of finals, before beating minor premiers Romsey in the preliminary final. It set up a rematch of last season’s grand final against Lancefield. There would be no repeat of last season’s result, with Golf winning 65 (16)-46 (0). Golf president Toby Barker was one of two players in the team not to have played in a premiership, “We had an up and down season,” he said. “We were still quietly confident we could win it. “We thought we had the best side this year. We thought we had the best side last year, but didn’t win it.” Barker said entering finals they believed that they had figured out their best combinations and had gelled at the right time. He said the arrival of Peter Linehan from Lancefield this season had been important, while Adrian Plowman had bowled really strongly all season. Both were keys on grand final day. On Saturday, scores were close for the first half before Golf managed to pick up some shots after the break. They were able to extend that late to come away with the win. Plowman’s rink won 23-12, Linehan’s won 23-18 and Barry Godbolt’s won 19-16 to give Golf the clean sweep. It had been seven years since Golf last won a premiership. “It’s really good and hopefully we can stay there [on top],” Barker said. Diggers Rest 2 won the division 3 premiership. Diggers Rest 2 beat Macedon 2, 58 (14)-51 (2). The two teams top sides will play in the division 2 grand final this week, after Diggers Rest beat Romsey in the preliminary final.

Macedon goes back-to-back in GDCA women’s February 28 Premiership success is sweeter the second time round for Macedon in the Gisborne and District Cricket Association women’s league. After winning last season’s grand final without a ball being bowled due to the weather, the Cats found themselves back in the grand final this season. There was no rain in sight on Sunday, with the Cats proving too strong for Lancefield Black in the decider. Cats coach Tim Shaw said this season was a different experience to last season’s premiership. “It’s always great to win a premiership,” he said. “You want to win a premiership by playing, it’s the best way to do it. “It’s a significant moment for the team and the club. It was a really good battle between two really good teams.” The Tigers decided to bat first after winning the toss on their home deck. They were bowled out for 80 in the 22nd over. Emily Consiglio top scored for the Tigers with 24 not out.4 Shaw said they were happy with how they were able to restrict the Tigers to a really

gettable total. “We wanted to keep the pressure on them and bowl, full straight and fast, which was a key,” he said. “Their captain [Consiglio] played a magnificent innings and was really strong. We tried to restrain her scoring by keeping her off strike as well as getting the people out around her. “We also put a lot of effort into our fielding over the summer and it paid off.” Amber Smajila was the pick of the bowlers, taking 3-17 off 4.4 overs. Shaw admits nerves got the better of them early in their batting innings. The side slipped into early trouble at 3-12. He said the girls needed to remember there was no rush to get the runs and they had to take their time. “They needed to take their time,” he said. “We were able to get some partnerships together and start chipping away at the target. “It was always an achievable target.” Smajila top finished with 29 not out off 44 balls, while Charli Large also finished with 29 not out. Smajila was awarded the player of the match for her all round performance. Having had this success, Shaw said it was

22 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 9 January, 2024

Macedon’s women’s side. (Supplied)

something that the club wanted to continue to build on. They also have a junior girls program, allowing for players to develop at the club and then continue to progress. “The exciting part for the club is that a lot of

people are invested in the women’s program,” Shaw said. “We’ve got the girls team, the women’s program and we have female ladders at the club. Everyone is 100 per cent supportive and it’s an important part of the club.”

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Heelers perfect season March 21

Romsey’s premiership team. (Supplied)

Romsey’s special win March 21 It’s a premiership 40 years in the making for Romsey. After a number of near misses in recent seasons, Romsey has finally claimed a premiership in the Gisborne and District Cricket Association top grade. After loss in the first week of finals, Romsey responded to knock off Gisborne in the semi final. The Redbacks continued that form in the grand final, beating a red hot Sunbury United to claim the McIntyre Cup premiership. Romsey secretary Tim McCarthy said it was a really good feeling to have broken the drought. “It is fantastic,” he said. “It’s 40 years since we have won a premiership in the top grade. “To do it this year, it’s a huge effort.” Romsey batted first and were in trouble at 4-55. The experienced combination of Ben Way and Taylor Stevenson then came together.

The pair put on 109 for the fifth wicket partnership to get the total back on track. Romsey was eventually bowled out for 199 in the second last over. Stevenson made 68, while Way made 67. McCarthy said it was the sort of performances they had become used to over the years from both players. He said they were pretty confident that it would be enough. “Most finals are decided by 25-30 runs,” he said. “There’s always a 10 per cent premium on runs on the board. “It’s normally been a high scoring ground, but they didn’t mow it during the week, so it was slow and we just had to adapt on day one.” At 3-126 United was well and truly in the game. McCarthy said with the run rate still fairly high, it put the pressure back on United to score. “The run rate was never out of control,” he said. “It was still about four runs an over and they had to hit runs. “It could easily become 5fa and we’ve back in control.”

It was the way it played out. Romsey’s bowlers took control of the game, bowling United out for 172. Stevenson and Day took three wickets each. Day only bowled five overs, but bowled three spells and taking a wicket in the first over of each of those spells. McCarthy said it was a real team performance with the ball, which is something that they prided themselves on. Stevenson was named player of the match for his all-round performance. The premiership caps off a successful period for the club, with all three sides in grand finals this season. “We all caught up last night [Saturday] and worked out the last three years of the nine grand finals, we’ve competed in eight and the other we made a semi final. “It’s been a real process and building of the club. There’s been no influx of players. It’s been a full club field and hopefully we’ll have substantial success for years to come.”

Hanging Rock handled everything that was thrown at it to complete the perfect Gisborne and District Cricket Association Jensen Shield season. Wet weather meant a delayed start to the season and when flooding left their home ground unable, the Heelers spent before Christmas on the road. The results continued to go the Heelers way on the way to a grand final against Rupertswood on the weekend. Rupo made the Heelers fight hard in the grand final, but couldn’t stop them completing an undefeated season. Coach Jarrod Milsom said they were amazed by the success that they’ve had this season. “It’s been an amazing season and what we’ve done from the start to the end,” he said. “We’ve had 23-24 players throughout the year and it’s only been the last six to eight weeks we’ve had better player availability and we’ve settled the team from there.” On Saturday, Rupertswood made 123, bowled out in 48 overs. Milsom said they were happy to have kept Rupertswood to that total. Early on day two, the Heelers looked in control of the match, at 3-66. The tide them turned with Rupo getting back into the game. “At one stage we were 8-70 and the game got really close,” he said. “We weren’t planning on it getting that close.” Heelers skipper Brandon Nicholls, who had a broken bone in his hand, was still at the crease, giving them some hope. A knock of 48 not out helped guide his side to victory, with two wickets in hand. Milsom said the effort of Nicholls this season had been amazing. “He has had a phenomenal season making about 900 runs,” he said. “He’s averaging about 100 each time he’s been at the crease. To have a guy like that still at the crease you know that you can still win it.” Milsom said that the group had been able to handle everything thrown at them and were really flexible as they were unable to be at their home ground.

Cats premiership glory after hard work March 21 Macedon knew that if it made finals it would be a good chance to go all the way in the Gisborne and District Cricket Association Johnstone Shield grand final. Having only sealed their finals in the final round of the season, the Cats had a solid semi final win to get back to face Romsey in the decider for a second straight season. There would be no repeat of last season, with the Cats claiming the premiership. Cats coach Tim Berzins said it was an unbelievable feeling to have claimed the silverware. “We started to get that continuity towards the end of the season,” he said. “We got players back and we have quality players at the club. We got the right calibre of players together at the right time and it clicked.” The Cats batted first after winning the toss, making 167, bowled out in the 75th over. Chris Axton top scored with 36, while Chad Walker made 33. Daniel Paterson took five wickets for the Redbacks.

Macedon premiership side. (Supplied)

Berzins said while the score was under par on that pitch, they believed that they had the bowling line up to get the job done. He said it was always a tough match against Romsey and they expected a big challenge.

Matty Williams would be the star of the show for the Cats with the ball, destroying the Redbacks batting line up. The Redbacks were eventually bowled out for 91 in the 41st over. Williams finished with an amazing 7-39 off

his 19 overs. Berzins said Williams was the recruit of the season. “He bowled 19 overs straight and took for 7-40 odd,” he said. “He’s been massive for us and the pick up of the season He would go well in any competition.“He moved to Macedon and fell in our laps. He’s been a massive asset for us.” It was no surprise that Williams was named man of the match. The win will have the Cats back in the McIntyre Cup next season. The Cats were last in the top grade in 2011-12 when they won just two games. Berzins said it was huge for the club to have the opportunity to be back in the top flight. The club’s women’s side also won the premiership. “Every senior side in the club made finals,” he said. “There’s plenty of talent and depth throughout the sides and we want to harness that, especially the youth. “We had 22 players in the first XI. We have the calibre to grow and develop the younger players in the right way. “We can allow them to take over when they’re ready to take over and not rush them too soon.”

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