Star Weekly - Sunbury Macedon Ranges - 23rd January 2024 by Star Weekly

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23 JANUARY, 2024

Vandalism dribbles down By Zoe Moffatt After school sport training, weekend games, and club functions are activities synonymous with childhoods across Australia. With facility shortages throughout the state putting strain on sports clubs which continue to grow as Melbourne’s population balloons in the outer suburbs, the last thing any club needs is existing facilities being unusable. This nightmare situation is one which local sporting clubs in Riddells Creek face after the town’s leisure centre was vandalised in December, rendering it inoperable until February at best. Riddells Creek Junior Mixed Basketball Association (RCJMBA) operates out of the venue and president Debra Taylor has been busy re-organising games, training and clinics so children still get to play. “The week of December 5 we didn’t play… We had a full week off with no basketball and then we organised it with the shire to play the last week of [2023] out of Romsey,” she said. “We’re running a clinic out of Romsey that should have been in Riddells Creek…. But we hit finals in March.” Ms Taylor said they are very grateful for the use of Romsey’s facilities, but the extra travel and time changes add to the juggle faced by parents. She also said it is disappointing they are in this situation because of vandalism. “It had a bit of the COVID feel, where it stopped suddenly, we didn’t want to finish the year off with our kids not being able to play. “The sport is important to the kids, it’s their social thing. “It’s very frustrating, it’s disappointing that it happened through somebody’s choice to do something. It’s an unnecessary thing that’s happened to the community and it’s impacted a lot of people.” Ms Taylor said she was in contact with council and was told the reopen timeline will be around eight weeks. “Best case scenario won’t be back till the start of March,” she said. “We were able to play in Romsey the last week but we found out that Romsey’s program are back up and running. “[We] have a different age group every night of the week, so we’re hoping we can get them into a stadium somewhere, but it will be harder for our parents. “It definitely has added a lot more work and is hard for us… but it’s important for our kids to play so we’ll make it work.” Macedon Ranges council was more optimistic about the timeline, with director

Debra Taylor at the Riddells Creek leisure centre, and below, inside on the darkened courts. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 383359

‘‘

We didn’t want to finish the year off with our kids not being able to play

’’

- Debra Taylor assets and operations Shane Walden saying he is hopeful the issue will be resolved sometime in February. “Council was notified by Powercor early on Sunday December 3, 2023 of the vandalism and theft of electrical systems at the Riddells Creek Recreation Reserve,” he said. “[It] has significantly impacted our community, as user groups are currently unable to operate out of the impacted facilities. “Unfortunately, the damaged switchboards and electrical pillars are custom built which makes it hard to predict exact timeframes.

“The full extent of the cost is not yet known and we are currently working with our insurance provider on a possible claim.” Council is responsible for restoration of power to the various buildings at the site, and Mr Walden said they are working with impacted clubs and associations to offer alternate competition venues where possible. “Our primary focus is on minimising the impact on community activities and reinforcing security measures to prevent future occurrences.” Across codes, Riddell cricket has felt the

impact in the second half of its season, and secretary David King said it could mean the venue is out for the season. “We have no power in the club rooms and it makes it challenging,” he said. “We have a generator to run a fridge on game days, but we had a few functions planned for the end of the year.” King said they had been lucky that the weather hadn’t been too warm on game days, as the rooms would have quickly warmed up. Macedon Ranges council said it was actively working with Powercor to expedite repairs.

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Sunbury roundabout ‘disgrace’ By Zoe Moffatt In November 2022, Sunbury resident Mick Dyer witnessed a minor accident on the roundabout at Macedon and Evans streets due to overgrown vegetation inhibiting a driver’s vision. Just over a year later, Mr Dyer said the roundabout is still an issue, and is ‘dangerous’ and a ‘disgrace’. Dotted with long grass and weeds, the roundabout is located near the Sunbury Square Shopping Centre and is the responsibility of VicRoads. According to VicRoads tree policy, it is responsible for vegetation in any centre median of an arterial road and for the roadside of arterial roads in non-urban areas. When describing the intersection, Mr Dyer

The roundabout at Evans and Macedon streets, Sunbury. (Damjan Janevski) 383212_01

said “if you’re sitting in a car you cannot see a car on the roundabout at all”. “There has been an accident there before and there probably has been again,” he said, referring to the 2022 accident where a car travelling south hit a Holden Commodore’s

quarter panel. When discussing the crash at the time, Mr Dyer said both drivers stopped and exchanged details. “[The driver at fault] said ‘I’m sorry, I couldn’t see you, because of all the weeds in the roundabout’. “The other driver said, ‘I couldn’t see either’, I said ‘I don’t blame you, I can’t see’.” At the time, overgrown vegetation along Macedon Street was one of the reasons Hume council asked the state government to pick up its game when it came to maintaining state roads. Mr Dyer said VicRoads attended to it over a year ago because of the last accident, and a roundabout on the corner of Riddell Road and Elizabeth Drive also is a hazard. “There is also a school crossing and a

pedestrian crossing there as well, [it’s] so, so dangerous. “This is a main intersection coming into the shopping centre, it’s a disgrace, people think councils are slack, VicRoads are much worse.” A Hume council spokesperson said council is concerned with the level of service and has raised this with the Department of Transport and Planning. “A total of 12 records of overgrown vegetation issues have been reported for Macedon and Evans Street roundabout from July 2023 onwards, this includes two councillors requests,” they said. “The ongoing improvement of Hume’s roadsides is an issue council remains committed to and will advocate for on behalf of our residents.” VicRoads was contacted but did not comment by deadline.

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Bush watercolour beauty on display A Sunbury art exhibition immortalising Australian animals and nature in watercolours has launched and is free for residents to attend. The exhibition, An Australian Spectrum by artist and Sunbury resident Ray Rattenbury, is on at the Gallery at Sunbury Hume Global Learning Centre, and is open 9am to 5pm. Rattenbury took up watercolours when he joined the Sunbury Art Society in 2010. “I’ve tried different mediums, and … I really enjoy [watercolours],” he said. “I joined a pastel class and then at the Sunbury Art Society, a lot of people there were

using watercolours and I tried it and it felt great.” The paintings in the exhibition include a range of Australian landscapes, with a focus on native animals, as well as flora and fauna. “I like Australian native animals, birds and bush scenes,” Rattenbury said. “Some of the paintings are about extinct and endangered parrots, which interest me.” Rattenbury, who has been teaching art classes across Hume and the Macedon Ranges since 2012, said the experience has helped him to improve his own work.

“I thoroughly enjoy teaching, it gets you thinking about how to do things differently,” he said. “I used to paint paintings and think I should do something else to it but was worried about ruining it. I’ve realised you have to take that risk. “The whole [teaching] experience has been great for me, trying to improve all the time. “I’ve been fortunate to win 22 awards in about 14 years.” Rattenbury’s have also been added to overseas collections in Canada, England, Ireland and New Zealand.

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V/Line workers set to strike again Victoria’s regional rail network is set to be brought to a standstill as workers take industrial action over conditions. Operations staff at V/Line, including conductors, train controllers, stations and customer staff and authorised officers, plan to walk off the job for four hours between 3am and 7am on Thursday, January 25. At this stage only non-driving grades will participate in the action. Rail, Train and Bus Union Branch Secretary Vik Sharma said despite bargaining since June, V/Line was yet to address key concerns raised by workers. “In the current climate of automation, major changes and an uncertain economy, members are fighting for what all workers across Victoria deserve – job security and decent conditions,“ he said on Monday.

“V/Line continues to drag their feet and seems to be in no rush to reach an agreement.“ He said his union would continue to meet with V/Line and negotiate in good faith as members would prefer to avoid industrial action. V/Line chief executive officer Matt Carrick also said talks would go on. “We have been continuing to negotiate in good faith and have made progress towards reaching an agreement,“ he said in a statement. “We strongly encourage the union to work collaboratively with us to reach a fair and reasonable agreement.“ Passengers are encouraged to keep up to date with the latest scheduling and coach replacement information on the V/Line website and social channels. Melissa Meehan, AAP

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Artist Ray Rattenbury with his exhibition.

Macedon Ranges council is seeking first-hand feedback from residents impacted by the recent storm and flood events, to help officers provide and tailor additional support where appropriate. Since Christmas eve last year, council said it had received hundreds of reports of flood and storm impacts, and officers are working to prioritise and address the queries. To gather information and provide further support, they are travelling to towns across the shire with a roving Recovery Operations Centre (ROC), inviting and assisting impacted residents to register for support and provide feedback. Council director community Maria Weiss said “we’ve been here before and we want to be proactive in gathering information and supporting our community. I encourage anyone impacted to get in touch.” The proposed ROC drop-in sessions are listed below, but are subject to change. They will be updated on the website if changes occur. January 24: Lancefield Neighbourhood House, 2-4pm January 31: Darraweit Guim Memorial Hall, 10am-12pm and Romsey Hub, 2-4pm February 2: Council’s Kyneton Administration Centre, 10am-12pm Residents can also provide this feedback online by visiting and filling out a public registration form. Details: https://shorturl.at/fkEK4

Tuesday, 23 January, 2024 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 3

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Bus services ‘woeful’: Airport By Hannah Hammoud Melbourne Airport has joined in the chorus of voices urging the state government to increase local bus services and has described its current services as ’woeful’. The airport, which is the largest employment precinct outside the Melbourne CBD, said an upgrade to local public bus services will better serve the needs of passengers and staff living in surrounding suburbs, particularly Keilor, Sunbury, Taylors Lakes, and Sunshine. Currently the airport is served by just four bus routes, one that doesn’t run on weekends, which has only one bus operating after 7.45pm or more than once an hour. Melbourne Airport chief of ground

transport Jai McDermott said the airport remained committed to building a rail line, but also needed a significant improvement to local transport connections. “Skybus does a great job serving people coming from the city or the Mornington Peninsula, but staff and passengers from the city’s north and west are being let down by a lack of local bus services,” he said. “We remain committed to an airport rail line with a fit-for-purpose, future-proof and cost-effective underground station, but while we work towards a link that puts passengers first, immediate action is needed to fix the airport’s woeful local bus services.” With about 18,000 people working at the airport, Mr McDermott said the airport needs

more PTV buses that, “start early, finish late and run every 15 minutes”. Mr McDermott said improved bus services could help connect more people in Melbourne’s north-west with job opportunities at the airport. “Many airport staff are shift workers, but the current lack of services mean public transport is simply not an option for people who live in our surrounding suburbs,” he said. “Taxis are sometimes reluctant to take local passengers to nearby destinations, meaning travellers and staff living in the surrounding areas have few options but to drive. “Improved suburban bus connections would help overcome this problem while unlocking more job opportunities for more people in

Melbourne’s north and west by providing better transport options.” In December, an Infrastructure Victoria report, ‘Fast, frequent, fair: how buses can better connect Melbourne’, detailed how reforms to Melbourne’s bus network would significantly improve access to jobs and recreation for thousands of people. It found the west is a constant front-runner when it came to being unserved by the state’s bus system,. Speaking in response to the report at the time, a spokesperson told Star Weekly that the state government was focused on reforming the bus network across the state, including improving existing routes, adding new bus routes and supporting a transition to zero-emissions buses.

Helping kinder enrolments

There will be live entertainment at this year’s festival. (Supplied)

Sharing the love at annual festival Residents from Goonawarra, Rolling Meadows and surrounding areas will come together on February 10, bringing Valentine’s Day spirit for the annual Share the Love Festival. The free event is run by Goonawarra Neighbourhood House and will be held from 10am to 3pm at Tulsa Drive Reserve, Sunbury. Neighbourhood house manager Isabella Rosinsky said the event ran for three years prior to COVID in a bid to bring the new estates together to increase community connection. “It also coincided with Valentine’s Day,

hence the name ‘Share the Love Festival’,” she said. “After COVID lockdowns we decided to reinstate the festival to bring the community back together again. “We also want to reach out and include residents of the new surrounding estates, [such as] Everley, Redstone, Kingsfield and Lancefield, to make them feel welcome and included.” Ms Rosinsky said last year the festival had about 300 visitors and this year organisers

hope to attract more local residents. “There’s something for everyone- live entertainment, market stalls, food trucks, pony rides, face painting, animals, and children’s activities. “We’ve been fortunate to receive two grants from the Sunbury and Bulla Neighbourhood Fund to cover the running of the festival, both last year and again this year.” Details: https://fb.me/e/43ak0m6ap

Families in the Macedon Ranges will be able to save up to $2500 per child every year following a boost in funding for local council central enrolment systems. On January 15, Children Minister Lizzie Blandthorn announced the increase in funding to expand the Central Registration and Enrolment Schemes (CRES) Administrative Support Grants program. It will support operating costs to enable councils to provide registration and enrolment services at no cost to families- helping up to 140,000 children and families. Nearby Moorabool council will also relieve the funding, and Ms Blandthorn said it will help ease the cost-of-living pressures for families. “[It will also make] it easier for them to find kindergarten places so more children can access the free, quality kindergarten programs they need,” she said. “This funding boost is supporting partnerships that have immediate flow-on benefits to local communities, and are a key part of our ambitious Best Start, Best Life reforms.” The federal government said a CRES is a single point for families to apply for multiple services within a local government area, helping them secure a kindergarten place to best meet their needs. As well as simplifying the registration and enrolment process, a CRES can work with other services such as maternal and child health to engage vulnerable and disadvantaged families who need more support. This new investment will see all CRES councils offered an increase in their annual base funding, and will include extra supports for those councils with high numbers of enrolments and rural councils.

Zoe Moffatt

Infrastructure boost for early learning across Hume, Macedon Ranges Hume and Macedon Ranges youngest residents are getting a boost to their early learning facilities through a multi-million-dollar infrastructure project to upgrade facilities and buy specialist equipment. Children Minister Lizzie Blandthorn announced the grant recipients, which includes funding for 65 kindergartens to upgrade buildings and playgrounds, while 268 kindergartens will be able to purchase inclusive learning equipment. Local kinders to receive funding include, Gisborne Montessori School, Goodstart Early Learning in Kyneton, New Gisborne, Riddells Creek and Woodend, Lancefield

Kindergarten, Kyneton Kindergarten, Woodend Kindergarten and Rothschild Road Kindergarten. Ms Blandthorn said the investment will ensure the state’s youngest learners have a world-class local kindergarten to learn and grow in. “These grants ensure hundreds of kindergartens have the facilities and equipment they need to give Victorian children a great start in life- no matter their abilities,” she said. The Building Blocks Inclusion grants provide up to $10,000 for inclusive equipment and $200,000 for building and playground upgrades.

4 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 23 January, 2024

In Hume, up to 280 new three and four-year-old kindergarten places will be created through a state government and Hume council collaboration to produce the Building Blocks Partnership. This includes up to $7.45 million invested to support five new and expanded kindergarten projects. Hume mayor Naim Kurt spoke to the importance of the program. “The Victorian government’s Building Blocks Program allows Hume council to deliver these crucial early years services for young families close to home and at a time when people need it most,” he said. The partnership will help deliver two new

modular kindergarten rooms at the Aitken Hill Community Centre kindergarten in Craigieburn South through an investment of up to $2 million. Once operational in term one 2025, the service will support up to 99 children each day. Ms Blandthorn said families in Melbourne’s growing north-west can now access a great local kinder when and where they need to. “Every child deserves a high-quality local kindergarten in which to learn and play,” she said.“This partnership will deliver hundreds of new kinder places for families in Hume, so more children can get the best start in life.” Details: schoolbuildings.vic.gov.au

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Station hours are ‘not safe’: Cr By Zoe Moffatt As the calendar ticks over to begin a new year, the Sunbury police station has officially wound back the hours its reception counter is open. The move, which was criticised at the time of its announcement by the Sunbury Residents Association (SRA) president, has also concerned Hume councillor Jack Medcraft. Cr Medcraft said the reduction in hours came into play on January 14, and puts the safety of all residents in Sunbury at risk. “I just don’t think a closed station is safe. I think the community is owed proper

protection, and I don’t think we’re getting it,” he said. “If people need police at the station for a particular reason… there’s no one there. “What does someone do? Ring triple-0 and stand there and wait for them to turn up?” Cr Medcraft said he is also worried about the travel time to alternative 24 hour reception police stations, and said he thinks it’s going to be an ongoing issue. “We’re 30 minutes away from Craigieburn and Broadmeadows…That’s the problem. Unless they’re gonna use the helicopter and get out here.

“Apparently we will have a patrol car on the road from those hours of 11pm to 7pm. But as I said if they get called out to a domestic dispute, you can kiss two or three hours goodbye.” A Victoria Police spokesperson said police will still be based at the Sunbury station and will conduct 24/7 patrols of the Sunbury community. “Please be assured the temporary closure of Sunbury police station’s reception counter does not mean the actual police station is closing,” they said. “The temporary reception closure will occur during off-peak periods and means we will

be able to maintain having police out in the community preventing crime, rather than sitting behind a desk when rarely anyone attends. “Sunbury polices ongoing commitment to keeping their community safe has led to overall crime in Sunbury dropping by 23 per cent since pre-pandemic.” The spokesperson said anyone who needs to attend a police station overnight can attend Broadmeadows, Craigieburn or Melton police stations which will be open 24 hours. Kyneton station has also had its reception hours reduced from 24 to 16 hours a day.

Supporting art in 2024 Goonawarra Neighbourhood House is adding new art classes to its 2024 program, offering low cost options to local residents. Watercolour painting and drawing classes for beginners will be held at the neighbourhood house weekly on Wednesdays 6-7pm beginning in February. The clay play program will be held on Mondays 6-8pm, during school terms. Neighbourhood house manager Isabella Rosinsky said the art class came about when local artist Sue McGrath kindly offered to volunteer her time to run it. “We are very grateful to her of course because she’s a great talent and resource in our community,” she said. “Pam will teach basic skills in watercolour painting and drawing [and] is keen to also encourage participants to make greeting cards with photos of their artworks.” Ms Rosinsky said the clay program came

about following discussions with Sue from Redfrog Ceramics across the road. “We decided to take advantage of this local asset and make clay making more accessible to the community. “We’ll be working in partnership and have clay making at the neighbourhood house, while firing and glazing will happen across the road. “This is a very informal activity with no formal instruction (except for glazing with Sue) but there will be some experienced people providing some guidance.” If clay and watercolours don’t interest you, the neighbourhood house has a range of additional activities including bread and pasta making, acrobatics, dance, gardening and more. Details: https://www.goonawarranh.com. au/whats-on/ Zoe Moffatt

Pamela McGrath will be teaching painting classes at Goonawarra Neighbourhood House. (Damjan Janevski). 383487_03

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Woodend median hits a million Woodend’s median house price increased 7.7 per cent in the last quarter, tipping the median price over the million dollar mark for the first time in more than five years, new figures reveal. Real Estate Institute of Victoria (REIV) data released in mid-January, showed an increase of $75,000 to a $1.06 million median price in the 12 months to December. Ray White Kyneton real estate agent Nathanial Briggs said Woodend is a somewhat tightly held and desirable location. “It’s always had a high level of traction,” he said. “There’s fewer properties for sales which creates good competition. “I sold a property in Woodend within four weeks for $1.83 million and had it significant interest.”

Further north, Kyneton’s median house prices recorded a 4.4 per cent drop in the last quarter and $37,000 in the 12 months to December. Mr Briggs said this shows it’s a good time to buy in Kyneton right now. “[I’m] not surprised by the Kyneton data, we saw a large [amount of] properties sell in Kyneton, [however] a number took some adjustment in price.” With the cost of living impacting residents throughout 2023, Mr Briggs said they saw his impact at the bottom of the market. “We’ve seen an effect on the lower end of the market and first home buyers [and] investment properties. “Our upper end market seems to have been

very steady in 2023… because they’re quite cashed up anyways. “I think Macedon Ranges is always going to be very desirable [and] I suspect the market will continue to grow.” Another trend Mr Briggs said he noticed last year was the slow down of properties that need renovation, with those that did sell taking a downward adjustment in price. “Vacant land was very stagnant in 2023 [as well], and it’s marginally started to pick up. We’ve seen more inquiries and sales in the back end of 2023. “Concern around building and getting a builder… the costs… volume builders and the uncertainty has contributed to the stagnant levels on [purchasing] vacant [land].”

Across regional Victoria recorded a stronger performance, increasing its median house price by 1.7 per cent to $616,000. The median house price in Riddells Creek increased to $1.18 million in the last quarter, Romsey’s was $790,000, Lancefield’s was $685,000, Macedon’s was $1.23 million, Mount Macedon’s was $1.44 million, Gisborne’s was $1.05 million and New Gisborne’s was $890,000. In metro Melbourne, REIV reported a downward trend with a median house price of $909,000, falling by 2.2 per cent. The median house price in Sunbury mirrored the trends in metro Melbourne and fell by 2.2 per cent, to a price of $648,000.

Sheedy Road work finished

Sunbury Venturers traveling down the Glenelg River. (Supplied)

Venturers paddle in the new year Sunbury Venturer Scouts have returned home following an expedition with Venture24, where they travelled down the Glenelg River to Nelson near the South Australian border. The group of 24 ventures and two leaders headed out on the adventure from January 2 to 7, for lightweight camping and kayaking. Throughout the trip, the group paddled with a variety of onshore wildlife including koalas, emus, kangaroos and in the water three swimming brown snakes. They also learnt deep water rescues, where they tipped out of their sea kayak then had to

empty the water out, float and reenter on the surface. Sunbury Venturer, Bella Blume attended the expedition with leaders Robert Irvine and Jessica Cashill. Bella chose this expedition paddling a twin sea kayak and said she really enjoyed the trip with other ventures aged between 15 and 18 years old. “It was great weather for the time and the trip was wonderful. [We] kayaked everyday for about five hours, with a stop for lunch in the middle [and] the snakes didn’t come near us,”

she said. “You learn self-reliance, [and] get to socialise with a really nice group of teenages, they were all very happy. “There was no phone coverage therefore they had a great time connecting, they were from all over Australia.” Robert agreed and said they were “a wonderful group of teenagers and it was such a pleasure to have them there.” This expedition is just one of many, which have more than 1000 people in total. Residents can contact the Third Sunbury Scout if they would like to learn more.

Works to upgrade a section of Sheedy Road in Gisborne are now complete, ensuring a smoother and safer travel experience for residents and the community. Macedon Ranges council announced on January 15, that the works, which began in September 2023, were completed before Christmas. The upgrades between the Howey Street intersection and Willowbank Road include road pavement and surface upgrades, the installation of a new roundabout at the intersection of Fersfield and Sheedy roads, the extension of a shared path and drainage improvements. Council’s acting chief executive Shane Walden said the project was one of many infrastructure upgrades across the shire already completed or planned for delivery in the 2023-24 financial year. “Sheedy Road services an area of Gisborne that experienced recent development, and this upgrade ensures council’s infrastructure meets community needs,” he said. “I want to thank residents for their patience during the construction works, and thank the Australian government for the funding support to help us prioritise upgrades like these.” The upgrade cost about $2.4 million, including close to $2.2 million provided through phase three of the federal government’s local road and community infrastructure program. McEwen MP Rob Mitchell said the government had delivered on its commitment. “Local roads were badly neglected and in our first budget in our first term, we are righting that wrong,” he said. A photo gallery of the completed project is available on the project page.

COVID-19 hospitalisations up in the west of Melbourne over summer COVID-19 hospitalisations and community transmissions are increasing in the west due to a new COVID-19 variant, according to Western Health. The latest quantitative wastewater measures indicate high COVID-19 viral loads in Victorian wastewater and this increase in community transmission is linked to the new variant JN.1 which is causing similar impacts internationally. Western Health is urging the population to take steps to limit transmission, especially to protect those at greatest risk of becoming seriously ill from COVID-19, including

people aged 65 and above, people with a disability or chronic medical condition and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Western Health infectious diseases unit head Dr Marion Kainer said it’s important not to become complacent about COVID-19. “It is still a serious illness, and infections, particularly repeated ones, have been linked to increased risk of heart attacks and strokes among other serious conditions,” she said. Western Health suggested six action to protect the community. Wear a high-quality and well-fitted mask, stay up to date with your COVID-19

6 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 23 January, 2024

vaccine which is available at your GP or local pharmacy, let fresh air in by opening windows and doors when you can, get tested if you have symptoms, stay at home if you have COVID-19 for at least five days and until you have no symptoms and take antivirals if eligible. Dr Kainer said well-fitting P2 or N95 respirators provide excellent protection from infection. “If you do become infected, masks also make it much less likely that you will infect your loved ones. Wear masks or respirators in indoor areas or outside if crowded,” she said.

“The outdoors is your friend during this time of increased transmissions. The risk of getting infected outdoors is 20 times lower, and doing things outside as much as you can is one of the easiest and most practical ways to keep safe. “If you’re indoors, open doors and windows as much as possible. If this is not possible due to inclement weather, investing in a HEPA air filter and running it on the highest setting can also reduce the risk of transmission. When traveling in a car, wearing masks or respirators and opening the window, even a little bit, can make a huge difference.”

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Macedon Ranges arrests Two Macedon residents have been charged following a seizure of drugs of dependence, cash and property believed to be the proceeds of crime. Detectives from Macedon Ranges CIU along with members from Kyneton, Gisborne and Woodend police executed search warrants at two Macedon addresses on January 11. A 41-year-old male from Macedon was charged and bailed to appear at the Kyneton Magistrates Court on January 29. A 38-year-old female from Macedon was charged and bailed to appear at the Kyneton Magistrates Court on March 18.

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Premier Jacinta Allan, Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas and pharmacist Kathy Mougios (right) at the Gisborne Priceline Pharmacy with staff. (Supplied)

A script for success Three months on from the start of the Victorian Community Pharmacist Statewide Pilot, Gisborne pharmacists are witnessing the benefits to women’s healthcare in the local community. Premier Jacinta Allan and Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas visited Gisborne Priceline Pharmacy last year to kick off the start of the 12-month pilot, which is aimed at testing an expanded role for community pharmacists. Gisborne pharmacist Kathy Mougios said the pilot has been really good news for their patients in Gisborne. “Our pharmacy has been to help dozens of women whose scripts for the oral contraceptive pill have expired,” she said. “We’ve also been able to help women experiencing uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTI) when they can’t get in to see their GP.” “These new frontline services were a huge

boost for patients over Christmas and New Year, when it can be harder to see a doctor. “On top of helping locals, our pharmacy was able to help patients visiting family and friends in the area, as well as tourists.” The team at Priceline Gisborne has been able to provide these frontline services to dozens of women since the beginning of the pilot. Ms Mougios said the pilot is important for regional residents, such as those in Gisborne, as conditions like UTIs require immediate attention. “[This] treatment… can be obtained from the pharmacy, [as UTIs] are very uncomfortable and painful. “The population [of Gisborne] is increasing and access to doctors might be more difficult. Therefore women who need contraceptive pill and UTI treatment have alternatives in terms of access to medication.” Details: https://shorturl.at/amDU0

Car in Sunbury creek Police responded to reports of a vehicle submerged in a Sunbury creek on January 15. Officers were called to Jacksons Creek just before 9.45am and located the vehicle. Search and rescue members were also called to assist in the vehicle’s retrieval. Police said the car was unoccupied and the circumstances surrounding how it came to be in the creek are yet to be determined, and investigations remain ongoing.

Players wanted Kyneton Football Netball Club (KFNC) is seeking players to join the Football Integration Development Association (FIDA) Football Team. Details: kyneton@fida.org.au or 0403 343 705 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.

UNSINKABLE GUY

RETHINK TAKING RISKS AROUND WATER 12651591-MS51-23

Tuesday, 23 January, 2024 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 7

NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Mum warns of water beads harm By Tara Murray Western suburbs mum Sana Awan is warning parents about the danger ‘water beads’ can cause after her son had to have one surgically removed after swallowing it. Ms Awan was having a quiet night in when her eldest daughter said, “mum, Muhammad has something in his mouth”. Ms Awan rushed to her seven-month-old son Muhammad Usman and discovered he had a “water bead” in his mouth – a tiny, round polymer ball commonly sold as a child’s sensory toy. She tried to remove the bead with her finger but thought that Muhammad had swallowed it. He was coughing and distressed and Ms Awan became worried. Some brands of water bead can potentially expand up to 400 times their original size when they come into contact with water, presenting a choking hazard if ingested.

Muhammad Usman has now recovered. (Supplied)

“The bead came from inside a squishy frog toy that burst,” Ms Awan said. “I googled water beads and they can be quite dangerous for kids, but a lot of people don’t know the dangers. They can be dangerous for older kids too because kids might think they look like food and want to put them in their mouths.” After her call to Nurse-On-Call was

transferred to Victoria’s Virtual Emergency Department, Ms Awan and Muhammad were directed to go straight to Sunshine Hospital. “I was very worried,” she said. “His tongue was blue and he was really uncomfortable. I knew we had to get help. We went to the hospital and the doctors and nurses were great. Ms Awan took a water bead with her into the hospital and put it in a glass of water to help demonstrate how fast the bead was expanding and how large it would become. Muhammad was kept under observation and no symptoms were observed, but his situation deteriorated when he began to have difficulty breathing. A medical assessment and a chest imaging confirmed that the water bead had actually entered Muhammad’s lung, expanded and was causing a life-threatening blockage. He was transferred to the Royal Children’s Hospital where the bead was surgically removed.

Couple welcome Wyatt with a bang As the sky lit up with a sea of colours raining down from Melbourne’s New Year fireworks, first time parents Chloe and Josh Grundy watched the celebrations from their room in Joan Kirner Women’s and Children’s at Sunshine Hospital. Chloe and Josh had picked the name for their newest family edition and they already knew the gender, but baby Wyatt was hesitant to be born in 2023. Arriving four days late, Chloe said she went into hospital on December 28 to be induced as Wyatt was on the bigger spectrum. “It was funny because I always said, I wouldn’t mind having a 2024 baby and then it happened,” Chloe laughed. “We watched the fireworks from the bedroom on New Years Eve and then they came in to tell us we had to have the c-section because he wasn’t budging. “We [had] thought, oh this year (2023) we’ll scrape in but he didn’t want to come out.” Following a successful c-section, Wyatt was born in the early hours of New Year’s Day morning, a moment which Chloe describes as ‘perfect’. “It was very surprising because he [moved] his head up a little bit and it was ah, just the perfect moment. “He’s very settled now, going to sleep and feeding a lot.” Chloe said she will be taking about half the year off before returning to work, and is looking forward to a year without ongoing morning sickness. “On the 31st [of December] I was throwing up as well. [I’m looking forward to] no back pain, no morning sickness, no heartburn, [I’m] happy it’s all gone away.” Zoe Moffatt

Mum Chloe with her 19-days-old son Wyatt, who was the first to be born at Joan Kirner Women’s and Children’s at Sunshine Hospital for 2024. (Damjan Janevski) 383416_01

Sunshine Hospital paediatric emergency medicine director Associate Professor David Krieser said it was a very serious situation that quickly became a life-threatening medical emergency. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission and Choice have issued safety warnings about water beads in recent years due to the choking hazard and the beads often being brightly coloured and attractive to children. Associate Professor Krieser warned parents to be very cautious with water beads, especially in a household with children under five years of age. Symptoms to be aware of are choking, breathing difficulty, vomiting or abdominal pain. Ms Awan is just grateful her son is safe. “All I want to say is be careful with these toys, they can be very dangerous if little ones inhale them. We don’t want any family to go through what we went through.”

Pitch perfect summer Local cricket and footy is set for a new era at the Diggers Rest Recreation Reserve following the completion of new works. Community Sport Minister Ros Spence joined Melton mayor Kathy Majdlik, Sunbury MP Josh Bull and local clubs late last year, to officially open the new cricket training facility and oval two upgrades. It’s the first of several facilities to be rolled out at the reserve in the coming months, and Ms Spence said it will go a long way to inspire people. “The new nets and oval will go a long way to inspire even more locals to join in the fun at the reserve, providing a great new space for sports players to take their game to the next level,” she said. The new facilities will support high levels of growth and participation in local sport for the three clubs who use the facility, including Diggers Rest Bulla Village Cricket Club, Diggers Rest Football Netball Club and Diggers Rest Junior Football Netball Club The new nets feature four cricket training bays with a synthetic surface and a multi-use space that can be used all year round. A new community pavilion is also being built at the reserve, which will include female-friendly change rooms, a community kitchen and canteen. It is expected to be complete by March 2024. Details: sport.vic.gov.au.

Flood assistance green light for Macedon Ranges Macedon Ranges council and communities will be able to access disaster assistance following the Victorian floods and storms that commenced on December 24, 2023. In a joint announcement on January 11, the federal and state government said they would provide this funding through the Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) for 17 local government areas. Emergency Management minister Murray Watt said this type of support is designed to help people meet immediate needs like food

and clothing. “We’ll continue to work with the Victorian government to make sure assistance gets to where it’s needed,” he said. “I want to assure those affected that we are working as quickly as possible to make assistance available and I want to thank emergency services personnel and volunteers for their efforts. “Although the majority of the floodwaters have peaked and the forecast is for conditions to ease over the coming days, the impact on communities will be long-lasting and we will continue to work closely to

8 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 23 January, 2024

support recovery efforts.” Eligible community members whose homes have been impacted can access emergency relief assistance through the Personal Hardship Assistance Program (PHAP), led through the Victorian Department of Families, Fairness and Housing. Residents are eligible for a relief payment if they have unmet immediate relief needs and their principal place of residence is, or was, in an evacuation warning area, and the floods or storms have damaged their home or has flooded above the floor. PHAP assistance includes a one-off payment

of $640 per adult and $320 per child, and up to $2240 per eligible family to help cover essentials like food, clothing, medication and accommodation. Payments are a fixed amount for each member of a household and are not calculated based on how much money you earn. Funding for local governments’ counter disaster operations will include making residential properties safe and habitable, and emergency works for urgent transport, infrastructure and public assets restoration. Details: disasterassist.gov.au and emergency.vic.gov.au/relief

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Driving rescue change

Landfill gets ready to close

By Zoe Moffatt When Sunbury resident and wildlife carer Lindy Velinski received a call about a joey rescue, she was heading home to work on her garden. Nearby, close to the boom gate crossing between Sunbury and Diggers Rest, Metro train employee Steve Roze was doing a track inspection when he noticed a kangaroo with a joey moving in her pouch. Lindy moved quickly and was at the tracks in no time. Even though she had been caring for joeys at home for the past three years, it was her first call out. “There was a construction crew working at the boom gates, trying to find out where this joey was and how I can safely get access,” Lindy said. “Luckily, Steve was able to assist me, and with an escort, I drove along the tracks for about one to two kilometres… to retrieve the joey. “When I saw it, I instantly noticed it was a wallaby, another first for me. Sadly the mother was not alive, but you could see the joey vigorously moving around in the pouch.” With the joey covered in bull ants which also crawled up Lindy’s arms, they moved back across the tracks for Steve and his team to safely remove the ants. “The amazing team at Metro trains asked if they could keep in contact with me to hear how the joey is going and then off I went,” she said. Lindy sought assistance from another carer, Annie Williams, and judging by the joey’s weight of just 603 grams, they concluded his age to be approximately six months. “Annie has the joey for the next six months and then he will get re-released into the wild if he’s healthy and well,” Lindy said. “He’s doing really well. He was crying the first day, probably from the ant bites, but that

Metro train employee Steve Roze with the rescued joey. (Supplied)

settled the next day. “He’s fed every four hours and is toileting, which means everything inside is looking

Rowan Andrews in his time with Avoca Football Club. (Facebook)

‘Gentle giant’ mourned Policeman Rowan Andrews is being remembered as a well loved family man after he was found dead at Laverton station on January 12. The 38-year-old husband and father of two played football across the country, making friendships everywhere he went. His football reached as high as being drafted by AFL club, Adelaide, in 2003, but he never made a senior appearance. His last club was the Yarraville Seddon Eagles, where in 2023 he played thirds football in the Riddell District Football League. The Eagles made it to the grand final, led by the “gentle giant“ Rowan in the ruck. Teammates couldn’t speak highly enough of their late friend. “Rowan ’Rooster’ Andrews was a gentle giant and the ultimate teammate,“ said a club spokesperson. “He will be sorely missed by all, and we extend our support to his family and friends.“ Another of his past clubs, Macedon,

released a statement on their social media sending their love. “We are deeply saddened to hear of the sudden passing today of Rowan Andrews. Rooster was with the club during 2020 and 2021. Our deepest thoughts and condolences go out to his family, friends & colleagues,” the club said. Mr Andrews also played with the Williamstown Superules Football Club in 2022, and they also sent their condolences out via social media. Police said a report will be prepared for the coroner, but the death was not being treated as suspicious. Don’t do it alone. Please reach out for help. ■ Lifeline: 13 11 14 or lifeline.org.au ■ Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636 or beyondblue. org.au ■ Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800 or kidshelpline. com.au ■ Headspace: 1800 650 890 or headspace.org. au

NEWS

good. Normally it’s around two weeks for him to settle into a new routine and the shock to wear off.”

Sunbury Landfill will officially begin the three year process to cease operations and permanently close, following a Hume council announcement on January 17. Council said the decision was made following a period of assessment around the landfill’s long-term future and will have no impact on residents, as the landfill is exclusively used by commercial account holders. The landfill stopped accepting waste in July 2023, following the move from contractor to council employed resources. The closure was originally scheduled to happen by 2030, which is in line with the state government’s aim to divert 80 per cent of material away from landfill, council said. The target has seen a number of initiatives introduced and adopted by councils across Victoria, including the Food Organics Green Organics (FOGO) waste system and implementation of the Circular Economy Councils Fund. Since it stopped accepting waste, council sought strategic advice on the viability of running the site into the future. The feedback suggested the tonnes of waste typically received by the landfill will be drastically reduced in the coming years. This is due to a growing push towards a circular economy that encourages recycling, and increasing strategies to divert material away from landfill. The Sunbury Resource Recovery Centre, including the Recycled Goods store, remains operational for residential and public use.

An update on Hi-Quality Group’s Sunbury Eco-Hub Hi-Quality is proposing to invest in state-of-the-art energy generation and expand its treatment, recovery and reuse solutions at the Sunbury Eco-Hub, located at 570 Sunbury Road, Bulla. We are hosting a series of community meetings in February 2024 to share our plans and hear your views.

Register to hear more about our plans here You can also reach out at any time via getintouch@hiqualitysunbury.com.au or by calling 03 9021 0678

12662884-JB03-24

Tuesday, 23 January, 2024 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 9 11/1/2024 9:29 am

NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Minecraft fun in Macedon Ranges Macedon Ranges residents aged 8 to 12 years old flocked to the Woodend library last week for a range of school holiday activities. Entering a world filled with challenges, tests and fun along the way, local school children enjoyed competing against each other in Minecraft. Creativity and skills were put to the test for the online game, which continues to engage a new generation of children following its release more than a decade ago. While students will be returning to school next week, they will be able to enjoy the last week of activities at Goldfields libraries throughout the shire and surrounding areas. Details: https://goldfieldslibraries.com/

Left: Ari, 6, and Orson, 9, at the Minecraft Lab activity at the Woodend library. Right: Maevei, 12, enjoying indoor time on the school holidays (top); Orson battling it out on Minecraft. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 382463

Emelia, 5 (left), Deniz, 9 (above), and Alice, 5 (below), learning about Australian bugs at the Kyneton library.

Olive, 5.

Bugging to learn more Kyneton library was full of creepy crawlies last week, with a nature table, bug activities and window mural for school children to explore. With Taxonomy Australia estimating there are more than 200,000 species of insects in Australia, there were plenty of new species for the attendees to learn about. Goldfields library acting programs coordinator Chris Donnelly said activities like these hopefully create greater care and interest in Australia’s expansive insect species. “We’re always after ways to engage kids and make them more interested in their direct environment,” he said. “Every school holidays there’s a program of events and it will generally revolve around themes and the season will largely influence the activities.” Mr Donnelly said these activities are free, as they want to make sure they have events going on for families of all incomes. “It’s good to give parents a break and a place indoors to escape from the sun,” he said. “This year it’s the wind and rain just as much.” Details: https://goldfieldslibraries. com/

Edie, 3, investigating the bug toys. 10 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 23 January, 2024

Zoe Moffatt

Taxonomy Australia estimates there are more than 200,000 species of insects in Australia. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 382459

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

SECTION

1228/401 Docklands Drive, Docklands, VIC 3008 Offices • Shops & Retail • Medical & Consulting Price information Sale

$250,000 excluding GST Prominent location Surrounded by high-profile occupiers ARPBS Commercial have on offer a rare opportunity to secure a prime office located at 401 Docklands Drive, Docklands. This property presents exceptional value and won't last long. Strategically located within proximity of Melbourne's key business district. Features • Ducted heating and cooling • Common kitchen and bathroom facilities dedicated to each floor • Gym & steam room access for all building occupants and bicycle storage • Public transport on the front doorstep Public transport on the front doorstep • 24/7 access • Parking available (not included).

4/42 Saleyards Road, Kyneton Victoria 3444 $1,300,000 (excluding GST) & $45,000 to lease (P.A plus GST) • Ample parking • Three phase power available • Dual floor office layout • Secure-yard • Modern facade • Clear-span ceilings • Container height electric roller door • Amenities provided • Total size 540 SQM Approx.

2 / 3 / 1648 Kyneton-Metcalfe Road, Kyneton, Vic 3444 $830,000

2582 Kyneton-Redesdale Road, Redesdale, Vic 3444 $690,000

This well-appointed establishment provides exceptional value for the astute investor or occupier looking at a property that provides all the essential attributes. Features: • Clear-span ceilings • Full amenities provided • Three-phase power • Total size: 300m2 approx. • Secure yard • Ample parking • Heating and cooling • Modern facade • Dual floor layout.

This property boasts an array of benefits and would be suited to the astute investor or occupier looking at securing a lifestyle allotment. This property is well established with a variety of excellent features. Features: • Three bedroom home • Total land size: 2.5 HA • Bore water available • Well fenced • Ample shedding available • Heating and cooling • Dam • Animal shedding.

Call George to arrange an inspection or to discuss further on 0418 315 936

COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE George Mercieca 0418 315 936 george.m@arpbs.com

Find us on NO SALE, NO FEE, ALL MARKETING INCLUDED

www.arpbs.com

12662883-AA04-24

NO SALE, NO CHARGE GUARANTEED Tuesday, 23 January, 2024 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 11

COMMUNITY STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

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

Truth and reconciliation The Macedon Ranges Truth and Reconciliation Group invites residents to gather for a moment of reflection in honour of First Nations Peoples. All are welcome to attend the Macedon and Mount Macedon Community House to watch a screening of NAIDOC’s Victorian dawn ceremony on January 26, 6am-8am. The viewing will be followed by discussion over bush tea and wattle seed coffee.

Shuttles and pickleballs Macedon Ranges Badminton Club is inviting residents to come and play badminton, or pickleball, or both, at Macedon Community Centre. Badminton is played on Tuesdays from 7.30pm and Thursdays at 9.30am (starting February 1). Pickleball is played on Mondays at 6.30pm, Wednesdays at 10.15am and on Tuesday from 10am at the Romsey Recreation Centre. ■ David, 0419 589 425 or macedonrangesbadminton@gmail.com

Flea market Malmsbury Town Hall flea market is back on Sunday, January 28, 9am-2pm. There will be bargains and treasures to be found, as well as a lovely day out. ■ 0409 794 386

Drop in Wednesdays Free holiday drop-in groups, including Music and singalong, Guitar, Cuppa, Play and Crafternoon will be happening on January 24, from 9am-3pm at Sunbury Neighbourhood House, 531 Elizabeth Drive Sunbury. ■ www.sunburyhouse.com.au

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Dinosaur Doctor Shaun, and Laith, 8, with ‘Toby the T-Rex’. (Damjan Janevski) 383278_01

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

Hume Men’s Shed The Hume Men’s Shed (Sunbury) is a non for profit organisation, meeting every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings at 158 Evans Street Sunbury. The group caters for men be it carpentry, welding, metal work, gardening or just to chat. ■ sunburymensshed.com or 0438 677 425

Family History and Heritage Society

Sunbury Seniors

HarmoniX Vocal Company

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

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

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

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

Sunbury Badminton Club

Sunbury Ladies Probus Club

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 robin competition from 7.30-9.30pm. All welcome to attend at Clarke Oval Stadium, 49 Riddell Road. ■ sunburybc@gmail.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Village connect 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

12 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 23 January, 2024

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.

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

Probus Club Of Sunbury Join the Probus Club of Sunbury on the first Wednesday of the month at the Sunbury Bowling club at 9.30am. It’s a friendly men’s group open to visitors and new members, with a number of great events held each month. ■ Greg, 0417 593 035

The club meets on the second Monday of each month at the Sunbury Bowling 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, 5428 3317, or Teresa, 0417 373 006

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

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

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

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

easy

7 1 2

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

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

QUICK CROSSWORD ACROSS

DOWN

Sweet egg and milk creation (7) Burning beacon (7) Spotted feline (7) Wash (7) Tinge deeply (5) Australia’s capital (8) Using analysis (10) Unwrap (4) Finishes (4) Battle (10) Coffee (8) Stifle (5) One who flees for safety (7) Island in the North Atlantic (7) Mollusc (7) Cut (wool) (7)

1 5 9 10 11 12 14 16 18 19 22 25 27 28 29 30

No. 169

Grows (10) Used to slide downhill on snow (9) Professional school (7) Subtraction (9) Breakfast favourite (5) Family members (6) Part of a target (5) Parts of face (4) Not supervised (10) Comparisons based on similarities (9) Extinct flying reptile (9) Defecate (7) Economical; sparing (6) Female name (5) Woolly mammal (5) Limbs (4)

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 13 15 17 20 21 23 24 26

DECODER

No. 169

hard

9 5 3

6 7

5 4 8

1 7 6

10 11 12 13

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

4 6

1 5 4 2 8 6 7 9 9 1 3

N O WMQ E K T C D U G P 16

Today’s Aim: 10 words: Good 15 words: Very good

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

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

S R

F R

defer, deform, feed, feme, ford, fore, form, formed, former, free, freed, freedom, freer, from, perform, PERFORMED, prefer, reef, refer, reform, reformed

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

3 LETTERS ACT ADO APT ARE ASH ATE AVO AYE EAR ERA GEL HER LAB MOB NET OIL PIE RAM SEA SET SOW SUM TAR UFO

ALIVE ARENA BRIDE CAPER CEASE CORGI COULD CRUSH DREAD DUCTS ELECT ENSUE ENTER EVENT EXTRA FATES FORTY HORDE INNER LATER LINER LYRES

4 LETTERS ARCS ARTS AURA BIDE CLAW CUTE DAFT FETE HEIR MARS MERE SEEP USER WEPT 5 LETTERS ABYSS AFOOT

No. 169 Insert the missing letters to make 10 words – five reading across the grid and five reading down.

QUICK QUIZ

2 3

NOTE: more than one solution may be possible

T Y

D G E D

P E C A N A R O S E W O R S E

NESTS OASIS OWING PATTY PORTS REBUT RISEN SENSE STAGE STATE STEEP STEPS STOMP STUNT STYLE SUGAR TERSE THROB TONAL TORSO TOTED TOXIC

PARSNIP RENEGES UNICORN

ULTRA UNITE USAGE YEARS 6 LETTERS DEEPLY NEBULA PLASMA SCRAMS

8 LETTERS EGOTISTS EMERGENT LEVERAGE SCHEDULE

7 LETTERS ANTENNA ENCHANT OSMOSIS

26-01-24

No. 169

8 1 , & 2 5 1

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”.

21 words: Excellent

hard

A X J V L R I B S F Y H Z

medium

9-LETTER WORD

easy

5x5

WORDFIT

5 6

Aside from Australia, which other country has hosted the Australian Open? Brassy ringlets are a species group of which insect? Which actor starred alongside Adam Sandler (pictured) in I Now Pronounce You Chuck and Larry? What was the code name of the US program that produced the first atomic bomb during World War II? The Japanese condiment mirin is a wine made from what? What is the most populous city in Spain?

Who directed the 1978 film My Brilliant Career?

Yellowfin, southern bluefin and albacore are all types of what fish?

What is the name of celebrity chef Heston Blumenthal’s first restaurant?

10 Is the coping saw a type of hand saw or electric saw?

ANSWERS: 1. New Zealand 2. Butterfly 3. Kevin James 4. Manhattan Project 5. Rice 6. Madrid 7. Gillian Armstrong 8. Tuna 9. The Fat Duck 10. Hand saw

No. 169

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SUDOKU

Tuesday, 23 January, 2024 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 13

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SPORTS QUIZ 1. Tiger Woods recently announced he was ending a $500 million partnership with which major sporting brand?

4. How many losses did Heavyweight Champion Muhammad Ali concede in his career? 5. Which country is traditionally associated with caber toss?

2. Which NBA team does Aussie star Dante Exum play for?

6. In 2023, which US swimmer surpassed Michael Phelps’ record for the most individual gold medals in swimming World Championships?

3. Following a first round loss at Adelaide International, Thanasi Kokkinakis slammed the tennis balls and compared them to what fruit?

7. Which female tennis player won the ‘Golden Slam Slam’ in 1988 after winning the Australian Open, French Open, Wimbledon and the US Open? 8. In skiing, what does the term ‘moguls’ refer to? 9. In which decade did Mike Tyson became the youngest heavyweight champion in boxing history? 10. At which summer Olympics did US swimmer Michael Phelps set a historic record by winning eight gold medals in a single Games? 11. Alex Chidiac plays for which A-League side?

Thanasi Kokkinakis

12. How many countries have been represented at every Olympic Games since their inception in 1896?

Mike Tyson

13. And which countries are they? 14. Bree Walker recently won Australia’s first World Cup bronze medal in which sport? 15. Which team won the inaugural Major League Cricket competition in 2023? 16. Patrick Mahomes plays for which NFL team? 17. In the Big Time Rush TV show, which sport were the band members previously involved in? 18. Who won the Brownlow Medal in 2014? 19. In what year did the Wallabies fail to make it past the group stage of a World Cup for the first time? 20. The BWF governs which sport internationally? 21. Which WNBL team is the only major women’s sporting team located in the northern half of Australia?

27. How many teams make up the South African Twenty20 tournament, the SA20?

22. How many years have passed since an Australian won the Men’s Singles title at the Australian Open?

28. By what nickname is LeBron James’ son LeBron James Jr. better known?

23. Which Women’s Super League club does the Matildas' Mary Fowler play for? 24. Which batsman was announced as the replacement test match opener for David Warner? 25. What day of the week did the 2024 Australian Open tennis tournament start on?

29. The 1993 movie Ruby revolves around which sport? 30. Iffy Lie is a term used in which sport?

26. In what year did the West Coast Eagles and Brisbane Bears join the AFL/VFL?

2601

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CX90 – the largest Mazda yet By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring I must be seeing double. Apart from the difference in size, the Mazda CX-60 and CX-90 could be twins. They look the same. They share the same chassis, the same engines and transmissions and their performance is very much the same. Everything is the same, same, same – or is it?

Styling At 5120mm and 2220kg CX-90 is the largest Mazda to date and is available in six- and seven-seat configuration, with a choice of petrol or diesel engines – both of them hybrids. That’s 38mm longer than the CX-60 we reviewed recently, 45mm longer than the CX-9, 195mm longer than CX-8 and a whopping 545mm longer than the best-selling CX-5. Get the picture. If CX-60 is targeted at the BMW X3, then that means CX-90 has X5 customers in its sights, and that’s a pretty tall order. It’s like trying to climb Mt Everest without the right amount of oxygen. Take too little and you’re not going to make it. For the time being, CX-90 replaces the CX-9 which is in run-out, priced from just over $50,000 through to $74,400. Coincidentally the latter figure is the starting point for the CX-90. It gets you the hybrid, 3.3-litre Touring entry model, which is followed by the GT at $85,335 and the Azami at $94,435 – all before on-road costs. You won’t get much change out of $100K for the Azami by the time you add in on-roads. Add one of the $5000 SP or Takumi option packs and the figure reaches $100,935 – again before on-roads. That’s a heck of a lot of folding money for a Mazda, you might be thinking? So, am I. Our test vehicle was the seven-seat petrol-powered version of the Azami finished in the crowd favourite Soul Red. Mazda says CX-90 offers more luggage capacity than CX-9, but does not offer comparative figures. In total, you get 608 litres with three rows in use or 2025 litres with the second and third row folded. This is measured to the top of the seat back rather than the roof and includes under-floor storage. While CX-90 is all-wheel drive and marketed as an SUV, no one in their right mind is going to take this car any further off road than a dirt shortcut. In reality it’s more of a people mover and as such a dedicated MPV would be more practical. Standard kit for the Azami includes 21-inch machined alloys, Nappa leather, three-zone climate air, heated and cooled front seats, power-adjust heated steering wheel, LED ambient lighting and a panoramic sunroof. There’s also head-up display, a fully digitised instrument cluster, adaptive LED headlights, auto high beam, keyless entry and start, auto dimming mirror, auto lights and wipers, plus front and rear parking sensors. Not to mention intelligent speed assist, traffic sign recognition and the much-vaunted driver personalisation system. CX-60 is covered by a five-year unlimited kilometre warranty with five-year roadside assistance, with service intervals of 15 months/15,000km. Braked towing capacity is a conservative 2500kg. It comes in a range of eight colours including the aforementioned Soul Red Crystal Metallic (but it’s an extra $995).

Infotainment Infotainment consists of a large, narrow 12.3-inch screen, but as is the norm with Mazda it is not a touchscreen and must be operated from a central control knob. It is frustrating in the extreme that Mazda persists with this approach and irritating that the car must be in park with the handbrake applied before some features are accessible. There’s Bluetooth, built-in navigation, AM/FM/DAB+ digital radio, Apple Carplay

Shooting for the stars – Mazda’s flagship CX-90 SUV. (Supplied)

AT A GLANCE MODEL RANGE CX-90 Touring G50e M Hybrid: $74,400 CX-90 Touring D50e M Hybrid: $76,400 CX-90 GT G50e M Hybrid: $85,335 CX-90 GT D50e M Hybrid: $85,400 CX-90 Azami G50e M Hybrid: $94,435 CX-90 Azami D50e M Hybrid: $93,320 CX-90 Azami G50e SP M Hybrid: $100,935 CX-90 Azami D50e SP M Hybrid: $99,820

and Android Auto (wireless and wired, plus wireless phone charging. Audio is provided by a 12-speaker Bose audio system. There’s two USB-C ports for each of the three rows, plus a 12V/120W socket in the front, 150W AC socket in the back, plus another 12V/120W socket in the luggage area.

Engines/transmissions While the 3.3-litre six-cylinder mild hybrid in the CX-60 produces 209kW and 450Nm, the same engine in CX-90 has been tuned to produce 254kW and 500Nm, the latter over a wide band from 2000-4500 rpm - no doubt to compensate for the extra weight of the larger vehicle. The diesel in comparison produces 187kW and 550Nm between 1500 and 2400 rpm, and uses 5.4L/100km (and amazingly is cleaner producing 143g versus 189 g/km of CO2). M Hybrid Boost consists of a 0.33kWh lithium-ion battery, an inverter, a DC-to-DC converter and an electric motor/generator rated at 12kW and 153Nm integrated into the transmission. An eight-speed conventional auto transmits power to the wheels, but with a clutch in place of a torque converter that is supposed to allow more accurate control of the electric motor but it’s not the smoothest car to drive.

Safety Although it hasn’t been crash tested for safety yet, there’s 10 airbags - front, side and curtain airbags, as well as a driver knee airbag and centre airbag designed to stop front seat occupants bumping heads in a side impact. There’s a 360-degree camera, Smart Brake Support (SBS) with Turn-across traffic and Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) with Vehicle Exit Warning. Autonomous emergency braking (Car-to-Car, Vulnerable Road User and Junction Assist) as well as a lane support system with lane keep assist (LKA), lane departure warning (LDW) and emergency lane keeping (ELK), and blind spot monitoring (BSM) are also standard.

16 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 23 January, 2024

There’s two Isofix and five top tether child seat anchor points.

Driving Apart from the same quirks as the CX-60, one needs to remember this hybrid is unlikely to deliver Prius-like levels of fuel consumption. That’s because it’s based on a larger capacity, six-cylinder engine and an in-line straight six at that, as favoured by the likes of BMW. With a 74-litre tank, Mazda claims 8.2L/100km, but bear in mind it takes premium 95 unleaded (it’s E10 compatible). During this period, fuel consumption ranged from a low of 8.6L up to more than 10.0L/100km over almost 1000km of mixed driving. Around town we’d expect to see about 9.8L/100km which is where it spent most of the time before making any longer excursions. The electric motor is designed to support the engine at low loads and low engine speeds, boosting efficiency over short distances. The battery is recharged by the engine or via regenerative braking. If it’s full, any surplus is used to power in-car electrical components. CX-90 like the CX-60 is all-wheel drive but with a rear-wheel bias, which gives it sportier handling and a tighter turning circle than you might expect. Torque vectoring has been joined by something Mazda calls Kinematic Posture Control (Mazda loves acronyms) to control the attitude when braking – a technology also found in the MX-5. There’s gear change paddles and four different switchable driving modes, ranging from Normal, Sport, Off-Road and Towing. The look of the dash changes with each drive mode but that is the extent of any customisation, and something of a missed opportunity, we might suggest. The gear selector is fiddly, there’s a lag when you plant the accelerator and it slumps into gear from time to time. The brakes can be abrupt too. Interestingly, when you back off and the engine is no longer under load, the tacho needle

CX-90 Azami G50e Takumi M Hybrid: $100,935 CX-90 Azami D50e Takumi M Hybrid: $99,820 SPECIFICATIONS Mazda CX-90 Azami G50e 3.3L turbo 6-cylinder petrol, 8sp automatic, AWD SUV

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

flat lines as the electric motor takes over. Once it gets going, acceleration in the CX-90 sounds and feels six cylinder strong. Belying its size and weight, the dash from 0-100km/h takes 6.9 seconds (same as CX-60). But it feels big and hefty, and this is confirmed by a frighteningly long profile. You need to keep this in mind when negotiating car parks and the like, as evidenced by the scuffed rims of our test vehicle (not us, just saying). The driver personalisation system is something of a disappointment. It uses facial recognition technology to store and automatically restore individual settings including the driver seat position. The problem is that the system doesn’t recognise you if you forget to take off your glasses or sunglasses after the initial setup. The ride quality is harsh at times, but likely to improve with some passengers aboard. There are air vents for all rows but the aircon in our test vehicle was a major disappointment. It seems to cycle down intermittently but generally takes too long to cool down the cabin, and even at the lowest setting is not very cold. I lost count of the number of times I banged my head on the tailgate. Try as I might, I couldn’t find a way of adjusting it. However, the big question and maybe the only one that really matters is does the CX-90 look and feel like the premium product Mazda believes it to be? It looks pretty good and it’s got that big sexy six, and if you close your eyes, you could pretend it’s a BMW. But in reality, it lacks the punch and sporty feel of a Beemer, and in the end, well it’s just a Mazda.

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RDFL seeks new umpires to take up the whistle Riddell Umpires are looking at different ways to try and attract and keep umpires ahead of the upcoming Riddell District Football League season. Riddell Umpires secretary David Hili said his team is paying particular attention to recruiting mature aged umpires for the 2024 season. “We’re going directly to the clubs and doing a promotion on more of the mature age people who we’re looking for,” he said. “We’re looking for retiring players, players that can maybe do some Sunday junior’s games or early games, so they can balance their football and umpiring. “Or if they are recently retired or long retired and just want to stay in the game, umpiring is a great opportunity to do that.” After last year’s recruiting drive focused on recruiting young umpires from junior clubs, Hili said it is important to strike a balance in the umpiring ranks. Also with female football on the rise, there is a higher demand for umpires which this drive will also help with. “We have good up and coming umpires and

as they progress from junior into seniors, you want to pair them up with more senior umpires and we’re lacking in that 25- 40, 45 age group of umpires,” he said. “So we want to fill that gap.” “Senior women’s football and junior girls football is certainly trending upwards and the numbers are expanding, the league had some new clubs on board last year so we certainly want some more umpires on board to cover those games.” Hili said there are many positives to joining the Riddell Umpires team, for all ages groups. “One of the draw cards for the younger ones is it’s some tax free dollars for them and we always say that it’s a lot better than some of the alternative [first jobs], you’re outdoors, you’re keeping fit and even for some of the mature age umpires, they like the idea that they keep a certain level of fitness,” he said. “We’re also just like any other sporting group. We have very good camaraderie between everyone, apart from all the stuff on the track and all the lectures, we always put on a hot meal after training and sit down and have a meal together and that creates a really good environment.

Riddell Umpires are after more umpires. (Supplied)

“Especially for the younger ones we believe it teaches them a lot of life skills with being organised, learning disciplines , learning how to be assertive when you need to be, good communication skills, the list goes on.”

Young star on the rise

Nicholson moves on

By Harper Sercombe Sunbury’s Jin Woodman was right at home last week during the Victorian and Melbourne wheelchair tennis opens. This is the second year running that Woodman has been awarded a wildcard entry to the major international quad events which take place at his home club at the Hume Tennis and Community Centre in Craigieburn. Not only did the 14-year-old compete in the events he also enjoyed the biggest win of his career to date in the Melbourne Wheelchair Open, with Woodman defeating world number 16, Daisuke Ishito 6-4, 7-6, to get his first main draw senior win. To his own admission the Victorian open, which preceded the Melbourne open, didn’t go to plan for Woodman, as he was knocked out in the opening round by Diego Perez, 6-3, 6-1. Woodman then competed in the consolation draw, winning his first match against fellow Australian Finn Broadbent, 11-9 in the final set. He lost his next match to Marcus Laudan, 6-4, 7-5. However, he said that he remained confident in completing his goal of reaching the second round of either tournament. “Since last year when I did the same two tournaments, I realised that next year is going to be my year to at least get a round win,” he said. “So I put a lot of training into it and just a few days ago I was able to complete my dream. “Because the first tournament didn’t go so well, I said ‘you know what, the second tournament is going to be my chance.’ I was a bit nervous, but after the first set went to me I was feeling pretty confident to do it again.” Woodman said the feeling of his first round win and the completion of his long-time goal was a great feeling and filled him with motivation to head further into the competition next year. “It was a first round win, I didn’t want to go too crazy, but I’m still young, I still need to enjoy myself,” he said. “Next year, I’m hoping to make it again and try to get at-least two rounds.” Having these calibre of competitions hosted by his home club, is something that Woodman said he really enjoys. Surrounding himself with the best players in the world, providing valuable learnings for the up-and-comer. “I’m very fortunate to get a wildcard into both tournaments, I was very happy with that,” he said. “It is my local club, and it’s very fun having a lot of international players joining us.” As the two competitions came to an end and

Training begins on the second Wednesday of February, with a particular program for new recruits and especially the ones they are targeting. Details: recruitment@ riddellumpires.com.au.

The Sunbury Jets are on the hunt for a new Big V women’s state championship coach, with the club announcing the departure of Simon Nicholson. The club announced on its website that Nicholson would finish up at the association on February 8, stepping down from his roles at the association’s basketball development officer and as Big V women’s coach. “In his heartfelt letter of resignation, Simon shared his mixed emotions and gratitude for the incredible journey he has had over the last 23 months as BDO and the seven rewarding years as a coach in the VJBL [Victorian Junior Basketball League] and Big V programs,” the announcement said. “Throughout his time as BDO, BigV, and VJBL Coach, Simon made significant contributions to the basketball programs and community. Some of his notable achievements include expanding Aussie Hoops programs, successfully extending the under-8s program into Gisborne, and building the under-10 Flight Path program to over 140 players across Sunbury and Gisborne. “Simon implemented various initiatives such as the Flight Path Gala Day, a comprehensive training program aligning with the SBA style of play, and the successful relaunch of the domestic development and shooting school programs. “He also coached in the youth league women’s program in a championship season and represented the club at various state basketball tournaments. “Additionally, he will be stepping down as the head coach of the senior women’s team.” Nicholson coached the women’s Big V side for one season, leading a brand new side to a 7-14 season, finishing in fifth spot, one win behind fourth spot. Simon Nicholson.

Jin Woodman at the Victorian Wheelchair Open. (Damjan Janevski) 380973_05

the Australian Open began, Woodman said he would be watching closely, as he hopes to see himself on centre court in the not so distant future. “I’m hoping one of the Aussies make the finals. Every time I go to the Australian Open

it’s always very exciting, especially if it gets close like my match,” he said. “I was pretty close to being in the Australian Open actually… maybe if I get into the quarter finals or something [at the Melbourne or Victorian Open], they might look at me.”

(Supplied)

Tuesday, 23 January, 2024 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 17

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Thunder fired up and ready to go East Sunbury can’t wait for the Essendon District Football League division 2 season to get underway. Under new coach Travis Bishop, the Thunder has changed things up to try and help bridge the gap between it and the rest of the competition. Bishop said the pre-season had been really good so far. “We’ve changed a few things up,” he said. “I’ve added a couple of guys as assistant coaches in David Morrice and Steve Atherton. “We’re all fairly similar minded and we’ve done a lot of fitness in all the programs. Last year we had a huge injury list and I think that was partly due to the pre-season. “We’ve changed it up with Dave on board to help with the strength side as well as fitness.” Bishop said they had already started getting into the game plan and how they wanted to play early, to ensure they were all on the

same page. He said they wanted that to flow from the seniors through to the reserves and under-18.5s, which are returning this season. It’s been a busy off season in terms of recruiting for the club, with Bishop keen to get some more depth into the squad. “Dave is a strong bull in the middle,” Bishop said. “He’s well known in the area and has connections with other players. “Jaxon Madden has come from Warrnambool, where he played at a high level. We picked him up through a friend, who told him to give me a call.” Brandon Yankovski, Sean Egan, Matt Krul, Jack Barnes and Brandon Brancatisano are among the other new signings. Bishop has installed a new leadership group, headed by Mitch Church, who will captain the team this year. “Mitch is an awesome bloke on and off the

field,” he said. “I’ve got a meeting with the boys next week and we’re looking at having a no blame culture, solutions along. “We want to have player accountability.” The Thunder resume pre-season training on January 29 and Bishop can’t wait to get back out there with the group. And if the signs he’s seen over the break are anything to go by, the playing group feels the same. “I live across the road and I’ve seen groups of 10 or so training in the off season, boys are pretty keen “Working hard is part of the preparation. I’m excited for us this season. It’s my first senior coaching role and I really want to give the club the best I can give them for the club to thrive.” The Thunder starts its season on April 13 against Westmeadows.

Thomas Burnside (Jacob Pattison) 336752_06

Another win for Sunbury

Bakhtawar Singh Gill (Jacob Pattison) 384241_02

Sunbury breaks through By Harper Sercombe It was a historic day for Sunbury in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association on Saturday as the club won its first ever division 2 game. After a disappointing start to the season, Sunbury was able to finally get the win it was after, defeating Royal Park Brunswick. After being sent in to bat last week and being dismissed for 164 from 64 overs, Sunbury had a big job on their hands with the ball this weekend. However, it was able to halt Brunswick just nine runs off the target, bowling the side out for 155 from 63 overs. “We haven’t played anywhere near the potential that we could have this season,” captain-coach Kevin Barker said. “We’re a really good side, we just haven’t shown it yet, “To get the monkey off the back is a good feeling. “It was just pure relief, we’re a side that

shouldn’t be 0-7… I’m rapt for all the guys, I’m wrapped for everybody behind the scenes that are putting the work in for minimal results so far this year. So hopefully it can kickstart our existence in division 2.” The win didn’t come without its challenges, when Brunswick’s tail began to come home hard. “We had them 8-88, and only ended up winning by nine runs,” Barker said. “They dug in really well in the tail. “The pitch flattened out a little bit in the second half of the innings, they just played smart cricket and we probably panicked a little bit, which came purely out of the desire to win the match. “At the end of the day we got it done, it doesn’t matter if we win by one run or 100, we got the six points. It’s a nice feeling for everyone who was a part of that, to be part of the first ever win in division 2.” Ashan Ranaweera was the clear man of the

18 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 23 January, 2024

match for the Roar,, as the all-rounder made 48 with the bat and took 6-44 with the ball. “They’re games that you dream of as a cricketer,” Barker said. “He just looked on from his first over, he bowled so well. You’ve got to give credit to our opening bowlers, Jack [McGann] and Jackson [Treweek], they started off and bowled really tight which created a lot of pressure for the spinners to come on and take some wickets.” To continue this success when Sunbury faces Newport Digman on the weekend, Barker said his side will need to focus on doing the basics well. “We just have to keep up the processes, we’ve been working hard, training hard, enjoying each other’s company on and off the field,” he said. “When it comes to game day we need to make sure we’re doing the basics right with bat and ball and use the experience that we have.”

Club Sunbury has hit 2024 in winning form in the Bowls Victoria weekend pennant division 1, section 1 season, knocking off Yarraville Footscray on Saturday. It was a tight match at the Sunbury with the clubs splitting the rinks, with Sunbury winning on points, 90 (14)-66 (4). Lee Wesley’s rink was the big winner, winning 38-11, while Mark Cowan’s won 23-19. Kyle Shephard’s rink lost 17-20 as did Marc Bullows’ 16-12. The win maintains Sunbury’s spot at second on the ladder, now nine points ahead of Flemington Kensington. Brunswick remains on top with just one loss. Sunbury this week faces Glenroy as it goes for a third win in a row. Club Sunbury’s second side, which plays in division 2, section 1, suffered a 83 (18)-63 (0) loss to Keilor. The second side has won only twice this season. In the Ballarat Highlands Bowls Region, Highlands division 1 competition, Kyneton Golf defeated Trentham, 85 (14)- 50 (2). Adrian Plowman was the big winning skip for Golf, winning 36-9. Ray Wilkinson’s rink also had a big win 31-13, however Anthony Barker’s rink lost 28-18. With the result Kyneton Golf sits in third position, just a point behind Romsey. Ladder leaders Kyenton had another strong performance on the weekend defeating Lancefield 70 (14)- 53 (2). Neil Jamieson’s rink had the biggest win of 25-13, while Mark Smoljo’s won 21-14. Yet, Anthony Mathison’s lost narrowly, 26-24. Kilmore and Romsey had a draw, as Diggers Rest defeated Gisborne, 77 (16)48 (0). Broadford had a bye.

Lincoln Conduit (Jacob Pattison)384240_10

Undefeated and leading the ladder Top sides Gisborne and Romsey are on top after day one of their round 11 Gisborne and District Cricket Association McIntyre Cup clashes. The two undefeated sides are on track to add to their win tallies after day one of their clashes with Macedon and Woodend respectively. Macedon won the toss against the Dragons and decided to have a bat on its home deck. The Cats lost wickets early and that continued on throughout the innings. The tail proved little support, with the last six batters all dismissed for under 10. Skipper Daniel Trotta top scored with 51, while Christ Ingleton was the only other batter to really get going, making 46. Leigh Brennan was the pick of the bowlers for the Dragons, taking 3-27 off 16 overs. The Dragons came out with intent late on day one, finishing 1-53 off seven overs. Skipper Jarryd Vernon will resume at 47 not out.

Romsey decided to bat on day one in its clash with Woodend. It was skipper Ben Way that led the way hitting a massive 141 to guide his side to 9-280. Greg Matthews took 4-64 for Woodend. The Redbacks decided to declare to get the opportunity to bowl a few overs at the end of the day. Woodend got through unscathed and will resume at 0-25. Andrew Cullen is unbeaten on 19. Diggers Rest Bulla’s and the Sunbury Kangaroos match is evenly poised after day. The Burras won the toss and decided to have a bat. They struggled to get going and were bowled out for 236 in just 54 overs. Darren Quarrell top scored with 35, as no one could go on with it. Jason King dominated with the ball, taking 5-26 off 13 overs.

The Kangaroos run chase didn’t start well and they lost more wickets than they would have liked late on day one. The Kangaroos will resume at 4-54, but still have a couple of key bats in the shed. Quarrell has two of the wickets already taken. In the other match, two late wickets turned the game slightly between Sunbury United and Rupertswood. After being in trouble early, the Bees recovered to be bowled out for 216. Amrit Sandhu top scored with 80. Joel Muir had a day out with the ball, taking 5-51. Rupertswood’s innings started poorly losing two quick wickets late on day one. Rupo will resume at 2-12. Tara Murray Riley Vernon (Ljubica Vrankovic)

Sports shorts Big V The Sunbury Jets have announced Monique Stevens as their Big V women’s state championship coach. Stevens, who was an assistant coach this season, is a three-time championship winning player with the Jets and has previously worked as an administrator at Sunbury Basketball Association. Stevens said that she’d honoured and excited to take on the role and that the Jets hold a special place in her heart and she’s looking forward to contributing to the team’s growth and success.

Big V The Sunbury Jets have announced their first signings for the Big V men’s state championship season. Joel Coffey joins the club from Auckland and will bring some height to the Jets side. Benjamon Robertson also joins the club from New Zealand. He said he loves to get in transition and attack mismatches. Both are expected to arrive in Sunbury this week.

GDCA Joel Muir celebrates his fifth wicket (Jacob Pattison)384243_08

Rupo starting to gel By Tara Murray The process is starting to work for Rupertswood in the Gisborne and District Cricket Association McIntyre Cup. It was a slow start to the season for Rupo under new coach Nathan Shoesmith, but the side has started to put together some better performances in recent rounds. Shoesmith said they knew it was going to take some time this season. “It was a rough start to the season, but it’s a lot better now,” he said. “There was a bit of change, losing some players and starting the season with a really young side. “We’ve stuck with the same processes. It was going to take some time to click and enable some of the younger players to get some more confidence in what we are looking to do.” Shoesmith said it was encouraging for the long term future of the club to have a young first XI side which they can build around for a number of years. He said as that confidence grows, the

players are backing themselves to play a bit more freely. “We had JL [John Lane] in for a lot of the year and he was like the dad of the side,” he said. “We really enjoyed it but now he has dropped back into the second side. “We now don’t have a player over 30 which is quite remarkable.” That new found confidence was on show on day one of Rupo’s clash with Sunbury United on Saturday. The Bees were bowled out for 216 in the 66th over. Shoesmith said they were pretty happy with that total at the end of the day. “ We were really happy to get a few wickets early and have them 5-60 or 5-70. We were rapt with that. “A couple of wickets we got a bit of luck. At the start of the season everything was against us. “They got a partnership going, but the guys stuck fat. It could have easily been 300-plus so

to beg it back to 216 we were pretty happy. Joel Muir was the pick of the bowlers, taking 5-51 off 18 overs. Rupo had to face 13 overs at the end of the day. It was the worst possible start, losing two wickets. Rupo will resume at 2-12. “It’s not ideal losing two quick wickets,” he said. “It’s the best time to bowl when you’re out there for half hour and you can give it your all. “We’re looking forward to the challenge next week.” With two wins on the board, Shoesmith said they were hoping to add a few more to the total before the season is out, starting this week. “Two-day cricket is what we are better suited to,” he said. “Playing a lot of one-day cricket may not have helped us so far. “We’re definitely hoping we can get some more wins on the board. Most importantly it’s about sticking the process and the young players learn as we go.”

East Sunbury is in a good position after day one of its Gisborne and District Cricket Association Johnstone Shield clash with Riddell. The Bombers were bowled out for just 169 in the 65th over. The Thunder faced four overs at the end of the day, finishing 0-16. In other matches, Broadford has already claimed first innings points against Broadford and Kilmore made 253 against Aintree.

GDCA Hanging Rock had a massive win against Malmsbury in the Gisborne and District Cricket Association Jensen Shield on Saturday. The Heelers made 6-199 from their overs before bowling Malmsbury out for 81. The Heelers sit in seventh spot, not 12 points outside the top four. Sunbury United, Aintree and Melton South were the other winners on Saturday.

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