Star Weekly - Sunbury Macedon Ranges - 7th May 2024

Looping in laughs

The Mount Players theatre in Macedon is adding the final touches on its second production for the year, which will open on May 10.

The performance, Looped, is a comedy by Matthew Lombardo and takes place in the summer of 1965.

Based on a real event, the story follows an inebriated Tallulah Bankhead who needed eight hours to redub or ’loop’ one line of dialogue for her last movie.

The story offers audience members a hilarious yet sympathetic experience as to what may have happened in that room on that day and is supported by Lombardo using his theatrical licence. Vicki Smith plays Tallulah Bankhead.

“While Tallulah Bankhead was a lesser known actress of her era, she certainly had a substantial impact on stage and screen across London and Hollywood,” she said. “We see her at her worst and her best as she develops a sometimes combative but tender relationship with the hapless film editor, Danny, a man who is battling with his own guilt and self-doubt.”

Bookings: www.themountplayers.com or 5426 1892.

Dreaming of road safety

By Zoe Moffatt

A Diggers Rest advocacy group is calling on the state government to use uncommitted infrastructure funds to widen and improve the safety of Vineyard Road, following new crash data.

The DREAM advocacy group obtained data from the Transport Accident Commission (TAC) which showed there were 54 crashes from the intersection of Obeid Drive and Vineyard Road, to the intersection of Diggers

Rest–Coimadai Road and Vineyard Road, from 2018 to June, 2023.

During this time, 71 people sustained injury, with 22 people sustaining serious injury, requiring acute hospital admission.

The group, which started last year, said this issue is not receiving the attention it deserves, and it is only set to get worse as Melbourne’s growth continues to sprawl through the growth corridor.

“DREAM group has sent multiple requests for additional safety treatments for this road

“5 star plus delivery of service in a timely manner.”

to various parties, including our state member [Sunbury MP Josh Bull], over the last couple of years,” a statement from the group read.

“Indeed the emails back from our elected state member were decidedly non-committal with regard to following up on behalf of the community about this road.

“Sincethesendingoftheemail,theDREAM group has had some responses from the various parties but we remain unconvinced the state government is taking the safety risk seriously.

“[We want to] arrange a meeting with the minister for transport and Mr Bull to seriously discuss fixing this issue … our goal as always is to have a safe and well supported community.”

With the topic of money – or lack thereof –at the forefront of everyone’s mind amid state budget time, the DREAM group wants the government to tap into unused Growth Area Infrastructure Contributions (GAIC).

■ Continued: Page 4.

Actors Darren Gregor, Vicki Smith and Tom Seddon at Mount Players production. (Damjan Janevski) 402158_03

Arts precinct takes next steps

The Sunbury Community Arts and Cultural Precinct at Jacksons Hill is continuing to progress, with Hume council endorsing the draft concept plans for stage one last week.

At a meeting on April 29, council endorsed the plans for community consultation until May 15, following an update of the vision and key principles.

Speaking about the plan, councillor Jarrod Bell said it’s been a long journey and there still is a long way to go.

“For the first time in a long time, if not ever, the Sunbury [and broader] arts and cultural community … of Hume, have a clear and concise, and importantly, funded vision,” he said. “[This is] for an arts and cultural home in the capital of arts and culture in Hume, which is of course Jacksons Hill.

“It is, without a doubt, a community up in Jacksons Hill, in Sunbury, which has been fighting for decades to get those particular buildings alive, protected and moving forward

in the right direction.”

Mayor Naim Kurt said the draft concept plans had been heavily influenced by the community. “We undertook broad community consultationontheprojectinOctoberlastyear, and workshops with key groups in February and March this year,” he said.

“ThedraftplansproposetoupgradeBuilding 24 for woodworkers and manual makers with large equipment.

“Building 22 would house a range of anchor

Hop over to help count kangaroos

Sunbury residents are gathering once again to count kangaroos in the township, hoping into another year of the annual exercise.

On May 12, volunteers will gather at dawn to count and identify western grey kangaroos, swamp wallabies and wombats.

Count founder and resident Robert Irvine is looking for people to assist him in the count, which initially started when a kangaroo hopped past him while he was cycling.

“We’re still looking for as many volunteers as possible. The more volunteers you get the more

you can see,” Mr Irvine said.

“It’s interesting data gathering. I spoke to a local resident who has lived [in Sunbury] since 1962 and it took 10 years before they saw his first kangaroo in the area.”

Last year, Mr Irvine’s count revealed the marsupials have sustained their population, with about 537 kangaroos recorded over a couple of days.

Following these results, Mr Irvine said some standout locations include the Sunbury fields and Mount Holden, with the roos preferring to

retreat under the trees or lay in the long grass during the day.

This year volunteers will be counting the kangaroos in Elizabeth Drive in Kenway, Sherwood Grange, Emu Bottom Wetlands, The Parkway, Enterprise Drive, Red stone Hill, Moore Road, Mount Holden, The Strand, Kent hill Court, Canterbury Hills, and Gap, Wileman, Burke’s Hill and Reservoir Road.

Anyone interested can email Mr Irvine for more information.

Details: Robert.irvine614@gmail.com

tenants like the Boilerhouse Theatre … as well as provide small to medium spaces for individual artists, co-working and meeting rooms.

“This project has been in the making for a longtimeandwearesoexcitedtoseeitmoving forward.

“Our plan is to get stage one of the precinct up and running and have community, visitors, key groups and artists enjoying and using this new facility by mid-2025.”

Have a say on charge scheme policy

The Macedon Ranges community is invited to provide feedback for council’s draft Special Charge Scheme Policy, which was endorsed on April 24.

The policy, which aims to provide a more equitable funding model, is endorsed for four weeks of community consultation.

In providing background information, council said officers have attempted to balance the greater community’s needs with the interests of the directly benefiting residents.

“Central to this is ensuring that council applies a fair and equitable process for providing infrastructure assets,” council said in the agenda.

“This means that council should not be ’over embellish’ or ’over-service’ one community cohort over another.”

Council said the policy applies to Special Charge Scheme infrastructure projects such as but not limited to, upgrading roads, drainage installation and new footpath construction.

Councillor Janet Pearce said roads and the sealing of roads, along with the process of this “evokes a lot of passion in people.”

“I think balancing the community needs against a specific community cohort and trying to explain that is a lot more clear now,” she said.

“The streamlined process and… decreasing bureaucracy is really important.

“We have looked at this policy a few times and … I feel really positive that … it will be much more appealing [and] people will be able to understand the process a lot better.

Zoe Moffatt

Dreaming of road safety

■ From page 1.

The GAIC fund is a one-off contribution payable by landowners developing land that has been zoned for urban use and development in the Hume and Melton areas, among others.

“Currently, according to the GAIC website, there is [more than $100] million of uncommitted funds in the Hume growth areas fund, this represents uncommitted amounts of 46 per cent of the total funds collected,” the group said. “Given most of the GAIC collected in the Sunbury–Diggers Rest area is in fact from Diggers Rest and is for the purposes of state projects, we are unsure why this hasn’t been allocated already.”

According to the GAIC website, the Melton area has more than $120 million of uncommitted funds, which equates to 62 per

cent of the total funds collected.

Mr Bull said locally, the area will benefit from more than $11 million worth of projects, including $940,000 for active transport connections along Vineyard Road, which will improve safety.

“I have met with the DREAM group and a small amount of other local stakeholders on this issue and will continue to engage in good faith,” he said. “I take matters of community safety very seriously, and continue to advocate for my community for improvements and upgrades in my capacity as the local member.”

In response to questions about the uncommitted GAIC funding Mr Bull said the question was best directed to the Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny. Ms Kilkenny was contacted for comment.

GAIC: https://mapshare.vic.gov.au/gaic/

Volunteer kangaroo counter David Prewer. (Damjan Janevski) 404354_02

Lock it or lose it implore police

By Gerald Lynch

Hume police are sending out a strong plea for residents to lock their car doors and take all valuables out amid an uptick in theft.

Broadmeadows, Sunbury and Craigieburn police make up the Hume police response, and have uncovered in a recent review that one in three reported offences of theft from motor cars involved items being left in plain sight, often in unlocked vehicles.

Hume acting Inspector Laura Woolfe said trends indicate even the smallest items of value are leaving locals vulnerable to theft.

“Unfortunately, even small amounts of loose coins in a car console can attract a thief,” she

Speaking out about violence

Throughout the country thousands of women have gathered to protest family and gender-based violence, amid heartbreaking stories and shocking new statistics.

In Hume, this nationwide issue was recognised at a council meeting on April 29, with a notice of motion to express council’s concern and to call on the state government to provide sustainable funding to the response sector.

Councillors voted to write a letter to Premier Jacinta Allan, expressing council’s concern regarding the persistence of family violence rates and ongoing commitment to prevent family and gender-based violence through the delivery of coordinated action.

Cr Jack Medcraft said this is a serious situation and too many women have been murdered in the community.

“Violence against women is not accepted and needs the appropriate bodies, such as [the] government and our legal profession, to acknowledge the seriousness of this crime,” he said. “Governments need to not cut funding, they need to increase funding to assist the agencies that support these people. Violence is not just physical attacks, violence is also psychological attacks.”

Cr Medcraft said he would also like to see a register,wherepeoplecouldlookupifsomeone has any convictions for assault or worse.

“Ithinkweneedtogetagriponthis.I’mglad to see the rallies that were put on the other day, becauseitshowedthatpeoplehavehadenough.

“They’re the sort of demonstrations I think are worthwhile.”

Cr Carly Moore said it’s time to challenge the attitudes and behaviours that perpetuate violence against women.

“Thisincludesrespectingwomenatalltimes, inthehome,insocialsettings,intheworkplace, even here in the chamber,” she said.

“This isn’t just a women’s issue, this is a humanrightsissue…wemustbreakthesilence and speak out against all forms of violence, whether physical, emotional or physiological.

“We must stand together as a community, united in our commitment to ending this epidemic once and for all.

“Our mothers, our daughters, our sisters and our friends deserve better. They deserve to be safe, and as a nation we must do better.”

said. “The best thing you can do to prevent thefts is to remove all valuables from your car and ensure it is locked at all times.

“The majority of crimes occur through opportunity and if there’s less opportunity for an offender to commit a crime it’s less likely to occur.”

Itemsbeingfrequentlystolenincludewallets, phones, laptops, and large amounts of cash.

Stolen wallets containing personal information and bank cards have also led to an increase in fraudulent credit card activities.

While police conduct regular operations to target the issue, they say it’s important that everyone in the community plays their part.

Crime Statistics Agency data reveals

theft from motor vehicle offences in Hume have increased by 15 per cent in the year to December, 2023, rising from 1733 offences in December, 2022, to 1983 offences 12 months later.

In April, a Broadmeadows tradie had approximately $5000 worth of tools stolen from his unlocked rear tool box.

Another tradie had approximately $3000 worth of tools stolen from his rear canopy, and an iPad was stolen from an unlocked car at Campbellfield plaza

Anyone who witnesses suspicious behaviour around parked vehicles should report it to police via triple-0. For any non-urgent reports call the Police Assistance Line on 131 444.

Zoe Moffatt

Sergeant Andrew Thomson from the ND4 Proactive Policing Unit implores people to lock their vehicles. (Damjan Janevski) 403290_02

Supporting volunteers

Local volunteers, and organisations recently gathered in Sunbury to discuss the impact of volunteering in the community with the federal Social Services Minister Amanda Rishworth.

Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health (SCCH) and Volunteering Victoria hosted the event, which included local food banks, neighbourhood houses, Rotary clubs and disability service Distinctive Options.

The host organisations both spoke about the vital role volunteers play in the community as wellasthemanybenefitsthatvolunteeringcan have on the individual.

Volunteering Victoria chief executive Geoff Sharp said volunteering is the physical demonstrationofcaringforeachotherandthe community as a whole

“Itisusatourverybestandhighest,”hesaid.

“Volunteering is also one of the greatest things we can do for ourselves, improving

mental and physical health, learning new skills, pursuing passions, and creating better connections with others and our community.

“For this reason and many others, we are proud to work with government at all levels and our community partners to ensure ongoing support for volunteering at the local community level.”

Ms Rishworth said volunteers were vital to ensuring strong and vibrant communities, particularly in regional and remote areas across Australia.

“It was so good to meet with Volunteers in Victoria and see how they are helping to build strong and vibrant communities,” she said.

“We know that volunteers provide essential services in many different ways, whether it is helping out in times of disaster or crisis, supporting the more vulnerable people in our community, or assisting local sporting teams and community events.”

Briefs

Community survey

Victoria Police has opened its community sentiment survey until May 31, and is calling on community members to respond. Police said the findings of this survey will identify the issues the community cares about most, and will help the police develop ways to tackle them. The survey will include questions about safety in the local area, ideas to improve the work the police do and how the community wants to engage with police and PSOs. Details: https://bit.ly/4bi4I4h

Dog down under

The search has begun for Australia’s oldest, heroic, sportiest, hardest working and most talented dogs. Entries are now open for the inaugural The Dog Down Under competition 2024 with a total prize pool of more than $28,000 up for grabs, and the chance to star on national television. Entries close May 20, finalists announced from June 4 and winners announced from June 9. Details: TheDogDownUnder.com.au

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Free Kinder: Enrol for 2025.

Free Kinder is available for three- and four-year-old children in Victoria at participating services. Free Kinder is available in sessional (standalone) and long day care (childcare) settings, saving families up to $2,563 each year, per child.

At kindergarten, your child will:

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

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

• build skills and confidence before primary school.

Contact your preferred kinder service or local council to learn about how to enrol for 2025. Visit vic.gov.au/kinder

Local volunteers and organisations and Social Services Minister Amanda Rishworth at Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health. (Supplied)

Council’s grants policy updated

By Zoe Moffatt

MacedonRangescouncilhasupdateditsgrants policy in an effort to streamline the process and improve access equity and transparency, while clarifying the guidelines.

Councillors adopted the Community Grants Policy 2024 at a meeting on April 24, which brought additional programs under the policy, including small project grants, Australia Day grants, environment group support grants and Neighbourhood House Funding Program.

AreviewoftheCommunityFundingScheme (CFS) and Small Project Grants (SPG) program was also undertaken, and its guidelines were

updated to clarify that private schools are not eligible to apply for grants under these programs.

In the agenda, council said “public schools remain eligible to apply, as long as they can demonstrate broad community benefit and participation in their project beyond the school community.

“However, private schools have been deemed ineligible to apply, as they are considered for-profit/commercial organisations.”

Speaking to the motion, councillor Jennifer Anderson said it’s important to review the policy each year, to finesse it and make it easier to follow.

“We already had some good policies in place, but [it’s important] to get uniformity and make the whole process simpler for people,” Cr Anderson said. “We now have a program in the background that helps to track these programs and assist with our applicants.

“I think putting everything together and [makes] it very clear to applicants how the process occurs.

“It’s a really great open, transparent, well governed process and I think it improves from year to year.”

The review has also added a statement in the grants policy to indicate that failure to comply with funding conditions may render

Six-decade milestone for the Salvos

The Salvation Army is aiming to raise an ambitious $38 million for its 60th year of the Red Shield Appeal and it is calling for local help.

The annual Red Shield Appeal weekend runs fromMay25and26,butthecharityencourages locals to get involved in volunteering opportunities throughout the month of May.

Sunbury Corps officer Shaun Featherston said reaching the 60th year anniversary shows two things.

“[First is] our commitment as The Salvation Armytothenationandourlocalcommunityis strong, loyal and we’re in it for the long haul,” hesaid.“Thesecondisunfortunateinthesense

there is still so much need and injustice we are battling for our nation- so whilst this remains the case we will be here.”

Mr Featherston said while the $38 million goal might seem big and unachievable, everyone should just give what they can to make a difference.

“Locally we have a goal to reach $10,000 – so let’s … see this goal achieved and then some.

“The funds raised within our local community and surrounds help fund and operate a number of groups/programs that directly benefit our community.”

With many ways to get involved locally, Mr Featherston encouraged residents to jump on

board to lend a helping hand.

“If you see us around the community with a collectiontin,pleasegivewhatyoucan.Ifyou’d like to volunteer to help us with the collections, please get in contact.

“Or if you have a group, business, club, school or families and individuals who can run a food drive collection - that would help us to continue to provide food hampers to the community.”

Digital doorknock appeal: https:// digitaldoorknock.salvationarmy.org.au/o/ sunbury-salvos

Zoe Moffatt

organisations ineligible for further funding until resolved.

Cr Rob Guthrie said the grant programs are important and council runs them for the benefit of the community.

“I think it’s good to have these guidelines, I think it makes it very clear for people,” he said.

“The guidelines make it very clear what is required [and] sets out how these projects are assessed, which is very important and that councillors aren’t actively involved in that assessment.

Cr Guthrie said the next stage of the process is to provide education for residents on how to write the application for the grants.

Speedsters caught out

Speeding motorists were caught out by police in Hume and Macedon Ranges during the Anzac Day period, with 18 drivers fined for speeding.

Operation Tribute ran from April 24 to April 28, in an effort to reduce road trauma, with more than a third of offences detected being for speeding.

In Macedon Ranges, police detected 17 speeding offences, nine unregistered vehicles, five drink driving offences, two unlicensed drivers, two mobile phone offences and 12 offences for disobeying signs/signals.

InHume,policedetectedonespeeding offence, three unregistered vehicles, one drink driving offence, two mobile phone offences, three disqualified drivers, one seatbelt offence, two impoundments and twooffencesfordisobeyingsigns/signals.

Across the state, police detected 6857 traffic offences, and two deaths were recorded with fatal collisions in Arcadia and Everton Upper.

RoadPolicingAssistantCommissioner Glenn Weir said it was disappointing to see almost 7000 offences were detected.

“Anzac Day is an important time of reflection and paying our respects, however it’s a shame we don’t see this extended to people’s behaviour on the roads,” he said.

“Of particular concern is the high number of people we are catching who should not be behind the wheel– these individuals show a blatant disregard for the road rules

“The number of people fined for things that are so easily avoidable, like using a mobilephoneorfailingtowearaseatbelt, also remains baffling to us.”

Sunbury Salvation Army captain Kimberley and corps officer Shaun Featherston raising money for the Red Shield Appeal. (Damjan Janevski) 402490_02

Cheers for new trucks

Thekeystothreenewtruckshaveofficiallybeen handed over to the Lancefield, Bullengarook and Springfield fire brigades, helping the brigades to protect their communities.

Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas alongside District 2 Commander Darren Eenjes presented the $1.2 million investment in the one heavy and two medium tankers at an event in Lancefield on April 26.

Mr Eenjes said the new trucks have features that will improve firefighter safety at an incident.

“These new tankers are state-of-the-art firefighting vehicles,” Mr Eenjes said.

“The heavy tanker features a 15 tonne crew-cab chassis with a 4000 litre water tank and its 4x4 capability will help crews access fires in difficult terrain.

“Therearealsogreatcrewprotectionfeatures such as a roll cage, spray systems and heat protection curtains.

“The medium tankers have a suppression system which allows for in-vehicle firefighting andpartofthetrucks’watercapacitycanbeset aside for crew and vehicle protection.

“They can carry 2350 litres of water, transport five people, and has four-wheel drive capability.”

Ms Thomas said the new tankers will help keep firefighters safe while they perform their critical work. “The Lancefield, Springfield and Bullengarookfirebrigadesarepartofthefabric of the Macedon community,” she said.

“I’m pleased to see these deserving brigades receive new tankers to continue their efforts.”

The heavy tanker was funded through the

state government’s CFA capability funding package and is one of 48 new tankers being rolled out across.

The heavy tanker also has features that include an electronic monitor and electric rewind hose reel, as well as using a higher percentage of recyclable build materials.

The two medium tankers were purchased through the state government’s volunteer emergencyservicesequipmentprogram,which gave Bullengarook and Springfield grants of $320,000 each.

Both brigades also contributed $50,000 towards the purchase of their new vehicles in order to secure the grants.

Responding to about 148 incidents each year, the three brigades receiving tankers are supported by 72 operational members.

Young people have their say

Young people in the Macedon Ranges recently gathered to voice their opinions and give valuable feedback on key issues in council’s youth strategy.

Almost 100 secondary school students met at Woodend Community Centre alongside council workers, councillors, Sunbury Cobaw Community Health, Woodend Rotary, headspace, and Djaara Balaki Wuku, for the first summit of its kind in several years.

Participantsdiscussedissuesincluding public transport, the environment, physical activity, art and leisure, mental health, alcohol and Other Drug (AOD) matters, body image, career, education and more.

MacedonRangescouncil’scommunity director Maria Weiss said the Elevate Youth Strategy provides a roadmap to guide council on how to effectively support and engage with the shire’s young population.

“It’s essential that we actively listen to, learn from, and collaborate with our young people to ensure any initiatives we implement under the ELEVATE strategy are relevant to their needs,” she said.

“Thesummithasprovidedanexcellent opportunitytodothisanditwasfantastic to see so many young people engage in it in such a positive way and contribute their ideas.”

Council said it is now analysing the summit findings to ensure the ideas, opinions, concerns, and aspirations raised are included in relevant future plans and actions.

Lancefield, Bullengarook and Springfield Fire Brigades with CFA representatives, Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas and Macedon Ranges councillors.

Trust Neill and Ben for the perfect dentures every time

Our faces are the first thing that others notice and our smiles are an important feature of that. We have all seen people who are afraid or uncomfortable to smile due to bad teeth, whether they have their natural teeth or wear dentures.

At Perfect Fit Dentures we pride ourselves on the construction and provision of high quality partial or full dentures, including implant retained dentures.

I’m Neill Park and my partner, Ben Jones, and I have combined experience exceeding 50 years and we service the Macedon Ranges and Hume Shire areas. Our reputation is exceptional and we proudly accept many other referrals outside these areas, mostly through word of mouth.

We understand how important it is to provide suitable options to everyone, whether you are thinking of dentures, will soon need dentures or require replacement, repair, or reline of your existing ones. We also provide mouthguards for the sporting enthusiast.

Areyouawarethatexistingdenturesrequire regular adjustment to maintain a proper fit? Do you have persistent sore spots that prevent you from wearing your denture? Are your dentures simply ill-fitting and not allowing you to eat properly?

We realise that most denture failures are because of cheap/inferior denture construction and practice and we will work with you to provide the absolute best denture, at a price you can afford.

We invite you to visit or call us at Perfect Fit Dentures in Sunbury and have a no obligation chat with either myself or Ben. If mobility is an issue or you live in an assisted facility, we have that covered and will come out to see you. We also work from Gisborne every week on Tuesdays.

- Neill Park, dental prosthetist

Neill Park and Ben Jones can take care of all your denture needs.

Hume council meeting disrupted

By Zoe Moffatt and Gerald Lynch

A Hume council meeting was brought to a standstill last week when attendees disrupted the proceedings yelling ‘free Palestine’ and ‘shame’ amid council discussing Anzac Day.

On Monday, April 29, councillor Jarrod Bell was discussing successful Anzac Day services held in the municipality when shouting could be heard from the public gallery.

Forviewerswatchingathome,themeeting’s sound was muted several times, with mayor Naim Kurt unsuccessfully calling for quiet.

‘‘ If they’re looking for notice of what they’re trying to get, that is not the way to do it ’’ - Jack Medcraft

topic for tonight,” he said.

Outside the council meeting, which was held at the Broadmeadows Town Hall, more than 100 people gathered, with the Hume for Palestine action group sharing videos on its Instagram account.

This pressure on councils to address the ongoing conflict has been bubbling away across the country.

Nearby Brimbank council called for an immediate ceasefire in hostilities between Israel and Palestine at a meeting in February, after receiving a petition signed by 3408 people.

Speaking about the disruption, Cr Kurt said he knows there is a lot of emotion about the conflict in Palestine and Gaza.

“Ourcouncilhasstoodwithourcommunity in calling for a ceasefire, and unfortunately we won’t be considering any motions on this

Shouts of “free Palestine,” “shame on you all” and “you represent the people that live here” reverberated throughout the chamber, before council adjourned the meeting for 10 minutes.

Mum’s across the west will take centre stage on Sunday.

Their kids have been busy crafting homemade cards, shopping up a storm at the school Mother’s Day stall and putting the finishing touches to their breakfast in bed menus ahead of Mother’s Day.

Among those eagerly anticipating the special day is Jessica McCalman, who is looking forward to having a reason to celebrate Mother’s Day this year.

Thefirst-timemumfromBrookfieldlosther mum 11 years ago and said Mother’s Day has been a hard time of the year for her since.

But this year, Jess will mark the special day with her 10-month-old son, Theodore (Teddy).

“I’m looking forward to celebrating it again,” she said.

“I’m suppose I’m looking forward to spending time with my son. We are going out for dinner.”

Jess said she was enjoying motherhood.

“I’m loving being a mum,” she said, “It probably helps that Teddy is very happy and sleeps well.”

Chants including “we are here to let you know, we are the people” and “Palestine was betrayed, we are the people,” could be heard in the video, with attendees shining lights as they chanted.

Hume councillor Jack Medcraft said it was frustrating the meeting was disrupted.

“If they’re looking for notice of what they’re trying to get, that is not the way to do it,” he said.

Jessica McCalman and her her 10-month-old son

Brimbank councillor Virginia Tachos explained why councillors were voting on an issue that was playing out in the Middle East.

“It is relevant when my constituents who voted for their voices to be represented in the chamber express complete despair and deep unfathomable pain for the immense loss of life,” she said at the time.

100%

Teddy. (Damjan Janevski) 404934_10

Giants ready to launch at new home ground in 2025

It’s full steam ahead for the Gisborne Giants as they look to fully launch their senior program in the Riddell District Football Netball League next year.

After having to put plans on hold for 12 months while their new home ground at the Macedon Ranges Regional Sport Precinct was being finished, the Giants are getting ready for the 2025 season.

The club has put out applications for senior coaches for both men’s and women’s football, alongwithaheadnetballcoachandcoachesfor all the grades, along with football and netball directors.

Giants president Brad Gauci said it was an exciting time for the club.

“We’vehitthegroundrunningthelastcouple of weeks,” he said. “We’ve got confirmation that we should have the new ground in July or August which means we can have pre-season for seniors and juniors there.

“We’ve now started the process of recruiting for senior roles.”

Plans for the Giants to have a full array of senior teams in netball and football have been in the pipework since 2016.

Gauci said the ground not being ready last season put a dent in their plans but they’ve done a lot of work to get to these stages.

The Giants have had an under-19 football team the last couple of seasons and finished runners-up last year.

Gauci said they were hoping that group would provide the core of its senior program in the future.

“We’ve been building towards that with our under-17 and under-19 program the last couple of years,” he said. “We’ve got a base group of players coming through. We’re hoping to keep most of them and get some new talent in as well.

“Hopefully we’ll got a step further this season.”

The Giants had hoped to have an under-19 netball team this season but it wasn’t possible with the competition structure.

Instead they entered a team in the new D-grade competition with Gauci saying it was making sure their junior netballers knew there was a pathway.

Gauci said with being the main tenant at the new ground there was the opportunity to look at having a women’s football side in their first year. On field, the Giants this season will host an

Indigenous Round on the weekend of May 24 for all their senior and junior teams.

In a first for the Giants, all teams will play wearing a special-edition, Indigenous designed football jumper or netball dress.

The designs were created by Ky-ya Nicholson Ward, a young and vibrant Wurundjeri woman.

Nicholson Ward named the design, Mundanai which is a Wurundjeri word translating to ‘embrace’ and illustrates the approach the club will have towards the Indigenous round and towards First Nations

people and lands in our community.

Gauci said participation in community sport is the main purpose at the Giants and as a community club it’s important to embrace and respect the many cultures and beliefs within the club, as well as in the wider Gisborne community.

The Giants are holding a community information evening to launch their 2025 season on May 15 at Baringo Food and Wine Co in New Gisborne from 6.30pm

Details: secretary@gisbornegiantsfnc.club

NOW RECRUITING

SENIOR FOOTBALL & NETBALL LEADERSHIP ROLES

Gisborne Giants are getting ready for senior football and netball. (Supplied)

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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

Sunbury Woodworkers Club

Join the Sunbury Woodworkers Club to learn woodturning. No experience or tools required. The club is a welcoming environment open to men and women who wish to learn. Meetings for new guests are held on the third Wednesday of every month at 730pm. Circular drive, Jackson’s Hill, Sunbury. Facebook: Sunbury Woodworkers Club.

■ Anita, 0417 402 795

Family History and Heritage Society

If you’ve got a hankering to learn more about Sunbury and your own family history, come along to meetings at 1.30pm on the third Thursday of each month, which from May will be at room three at the Global Learning Centre in Sunbury.

■ https://bit.ly/3jvM6oJ

Rotary club

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

■ sunburyrotary@gmail.com

Ladies probus

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

■ Leonie, 0401 764 182

Sunbury Ladies Probus Club

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

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

Sunbury Combined Probus Club

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

■ Jo, 0410 834 272

Toastmasters

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

■ vpm-4185@toastmastersclubs.org

Sunbury Seniors

Sunbury Seniors (55 or older) meet on Mondays and Fridays from 10am-3pm. They are temporarily relocating to 531 Elizabeth Drive, Sunbury. A variety of activities are offered – indoor bowls, cards, snooker, guest speakers, day excursions, subsidised lunches or just a cup of coffee and a chat.

■ 0434 400 754

Probus Club Of Sunbury

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

■ Greg, 0417 593 035

CWA Woodend Eves

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

■ cwawoodendeves@gmail.com

Hume Men’s Shed

The Hume Men’s Shed (Sunbury) is a non for profit organisation, meeting every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings,

at 158 Evans Street, Sunbury. The group caters for men be it carpentry, welding, metal work, gardening or just to chat.

■ sunburymensshed.com or 0438 677 425

Sunbury Badminton 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

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

Camera club

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

■ https://bit.ly/41j5BEw

Breast cancer support group

On the first and third Tuesday of the month breast cancer survivors are invited to head along to the Gisborne Golf Club at

10.30am to take part in a breast cancer support group.

■ Lesley, 0484 691 226

Village connect

Enjoy free coffee and cake while connecting with fellow Macedon Ranges residents 55 years old and older. Happening on Tuesdays and Thursday at cafes across the municipality.

■ https://bit.ly/3AMUrxm, or 5422 0262

Arts and games night

Get creative at the Sunbury Youth Centre each Wednesday, from 3.30-5.30pm. 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

HarmoniX Vocal Company

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

■ harmonixvcinc@gmail.com

Jacksons Creek Combined Probus

The club meets on the second Monday of each month at the Sunbury 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

Craft and conversation

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

■ https://bit.ly/39BIu2O

Chill Out Sunbury

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

■ https://bit.ly/3lmVgVhv

Sunbury Ladies Badminton Club

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

■ sunburylbc@gmail.com

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

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Maombi Bongwa (front) Frances Sesay (back) with their handmade tote bags. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 403140_08

To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every

ACROSS

1 Kitchenware (4)

3 AD (4,6) 10 Non-professional (7)

11 Japanese paper folding (7)

12 A sweet cold drink (8)

13 Excuse (5)

14 Spindle (4) 15 Agitated (10) 18 Gratification (10)

20 Duster (4)

21 Adage (5)

23 Ponder (8)

26 US state (7) 27 Pirate’s sword (7)

28 Child of one’s child (10)

29 Principal (4)

DOWN 1 Worship (4)

2 Journeyed (9)

4 Account of events (9)

5 Layer that absorbs most of the sun’s UV radiation (5)

6 Largest of the Ryukyu Islands, south of Japan (7)

7 Baghdad native (5)

8 Started (9)

9 Note (4)

14 Annoying (9)

16 Relating to a specific discipline (9)

17 Neighbour of Mexico (9)

19 Member of ancient Germanic tribe (7)

22 Country (5)

23 Collision of one or more vehicles (5)

24 Very small amount (4)

25 Book ID (1,1,1,1)

5

9 words: Good 13 words: Very good 18 words: Excellent Today’s Aim:

1 Which country does soy sauce originate from?

In

terms, what does VET

for?

Endless Summer Vacation is a 2023 album by which singer? 5 Which 2003 film stars Julia Roberts, Kirsten Dunst and Julia Stiles (pictured)?

True or

SPORTS QUIZ

1. Nick Holman currently plays for which AFL team?

2. In order, which three sports comprise an Ironman Triathlon?

3. Which F1 team is Lewis Hamilton planning to join in the 2025 season?

4. Which former

5. Josh Garlepp, Harry Fitzgerald and Giorgio Savini host which sports podcast?

6. How many Grand Slam finals did Andy Roddick lose to rival Roger Federer?

7. NFL star Tom Brady led the Patriots to how many division titles?

Stefano Utoikamanu plays for which NRL

And what position does he play?

Which AFL coach is known by the nickname

Over what distance did Australian runner Torrie Lewis win at the the first 2024 Diamond League event?

12. Jack Hetherington and Reed Mahoney play for which NRL clubs respectively?

What does the acronym WADA stand for?

14. US golf professional Nelly Korda recently won how many LPGA Tour events in a row?

15. Which Australian tennis player will miss the 2024 Olympic Games after rupturing her Achilles tendon?

16. How many goals did Australia’s men’s under-23 soccer team score during their 2024 Asian Cup campaign?

17. Which team entered the 2024 NBA playoffs seeded number one in the Western Conference?

18. Which team entered the 2024 NBA playoffs seeded number one in the Eastern Conference?

19. US boxer Ryan Garcia beat which previously undefeated American in their recent super lightweight fight?

20. Which three Australian states appear set to host the 2026 AFC Women's Asian Cup?

21. When facing a dart board, which number is directly to the right of the 20?

22. In snooker, what colour are the main 15 balls?

23. Which team won the 2012 AFL Grand Final?

24. Curling is widely credited with having been created in which country?

25. Who was the first person to defeat Muhammad Ali?

26. English soccer player Cole Palmer plays for which Premier League club?

27. Who is the current CEO of the NRL?

28. Which major US sporting event takes place annually on Patriot’s Day?

29. In 2012, who became the first (and only) batsman to hit a six off the very first ball in a cricket Test?

30. How many points separated Essendon and Collingwood at full-time of the 2024 Anzac Day match?

Nelly Korda

RATINGS

Looks: 8/10

Performance: 6/10

Safety: 8/10

Thirst: 7/10

Practicality: 7/10

Comfort: 8/10

Tech: 8/10

Value: 8/10

Well equipped and keenly priced

By Alistair Kennedy, Marque Motoring

Launched here in 2004, the small Cerato hatch or sedan has been one of Kia’s biggest sellers, often sharing the Australian sales podium alongside Toyota Corolla, Hyundai i30 and Mazda3.

The current, fourth generation, Cerato has been on sale here since 2018 with an upgrade in 2021 adding new tech features as well as the fresh new Kia logo.

The next generation Cerato is due early in 2025 but it will be given a name change, adopting the global name of K4.

Let’s hope that Kia doesn’t face the same negative buyer reaction that Nissan did back in 2006 when, under instructions from its Tokyo head office, the popular and well-established Pulsar nameplate was dropped and replaced by the unknown Tiida leaving potential buyers either confused, angry, or both

We don’t anticipate that happening with the Cerato/K4 change. Kia has one of the smartest marketing teams in the business, as shown by its brilliant sporting superstar advert for the upcoming Tasman ute.

But, enough about the future, the Cerato remains on sale now as an excellent alternative in its small hatch/sedan category.

It comes with the choice of four variants: S, Sport, Sport + and GT, all with either five-door hatchback or four-door sedan bodies. Prices rangefrom$27,060fortheSthroughto$36,860 for the GT. There’s no difference between the hatch and sedan.

Don’t get too excited about the use of the Sport and Sports + name. Both models get the same 2.0-litre petrol engine with the same modest outputs as the S. Sport and Sport+ do get 17-inch alloy wheels while the S has 16-inch steels.

Our test vehicle was the Sport + hatch.

Styling

The 2021 Cerato upgrade was one of the first models to get the new stylised badge which has now spread across the Kia range.

Other new features include a revised headlamp design extending the grille pattern out to the car’s flanks, the reworked front bumper adding a sleek sporty character.

Front foglamps are slotted into the air intake grille, sharpening the looks up front. In profile the Cerato hatch is a model of restraint, with one exception, An alternative design for the 17-inch alloy wheels differentiates the Sport and Sport + from the rest of the range.

At the rear the exhaust has been concealed for an up-to-date hatchback appearance.

Drivelines

Cerato S, Sport and Sport+ are powered by a 2.0-litre,four-cylinderpetrolengineproducing 112 kW and 192 Nm, while the GT comes with a 1.6-litre turbo-petrol four-cylinder motor with 150 kW and 265 Nm.

The 2.0-litre engine is paired to a six-speed automatic while the GT’s turbo engine gets a double-clutch (DCT) seven-speed auto.

Minimal sales saw the demise of the previous six-speed manual gearbox at the 2021 upgrade.

Interior

Kia Cerato has a well-designed and practical interior with everything in the right place.

There’sreasonablerearlegroomalthoughthe sunroof in the GT does limit head space.

Rear seat occupants also get a fold down

armrest with cup holders, USB socket and air vents.

Sport+ has leather-appointed seats, heated upfront, that are comfortable without being supportive in a lateral context.

Other carryover features include electrochromic mirror, and power exterior folding mirrors, soft-touch trim, illuminated glovebox and passenger-side seat-back pocket. Luggage space with the rear seatbacks folded is 428 litres in the hatch and 502 litres in the sedan.

Infotainment

Standard across the Cerato range are a 10.25-inch audio-visual unit with an LCD screen and a 4.2-inch TFT LCD cluster.

The latter displays information such as drive mode (normal, eco, sport, smart), average and instantaneous fuel consumption, trip meter andodometer,fuelrange,lanekeepassiststatus driver attention level and compass bearing.

Built-in satellite navigation, with 10-year MapCareandSUNAtrafficupdates,alsoallows access to DAB digital radio, voice recognition, wired Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, plus the dial-up soothing Sounds of Nature.

To maintain occupant aural pleasure all round, a rear-seat sleep mode can be called on to limit the speaker level in the back for occupantstoenjoyamorerestfulenvironment.

Safety

Ceratocomeswithacomprehensivelistofsafety features that include six airbags, enhanced ABS brakes, stability control, autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, lane follow assist, lane departure warning and driver attention alert.

Therearealsofrontandrearparkingsensors, high beam assist; reversing camera; and two IsoFix child seat anchor points.

Sport + and GT add blind spot recognition; blind spot collision avoidance assist, rear cross traffic alert, safe exit warning; and enhanced AEB to include pedestrian and cyclist recognition.

Anoptional$1000SafetyPackisavailablefor theSandSportmodelsthataddsaCyclistAEB, electronic parking brake; blind spot detection; and rear cross traffic alert.

Driving

As mentioned previously, performance from the 2.0-litre models is only modest but it’s the same story with its direct competitors. Zero to 100 km/h is just under 10 seconds.

It’s left to the GT with 1.6-litre turbo power to carry the sporty flag, with the speed from a standstill coming up in roughly seven seconds. Ride and handling remain pleasantly unchanged, with the Sport + keeping the tried-and-true McPherson Strut front end and couple torsion beam axle at the back tuned especially for Australia by our own engineers.

Suspension is reasonably supple, though rough Aussie country roads can occasionally troubleit.Noiseandvibrationarewelldamped.

The latest Korean models are almost up with the Europeans due to their driving dynamics being uprated to suit Australian drivers’ tastes.

Steering provides a quick response from good feedback.

Fuel consumption from the 2.0-litre engine is listed as 7.4 litres per 100 kilometres in the combined urban / highway cycle. We averaged 8.3 L/100km during our week-long test of the Sport + hatch.

Summing up

Cerato has played a significant part in the spectacular rise of Kia in Australia over the past decade or so. It’s been the brand’s best-selling model for much of that time and still, despite the current model due for imminent replacement, sitting in second place behind the Sportage SUV.

The modest performance isn’t especially important to most of its owners who just want a compact, affordable and reliable vehicle.

TheupcomingK4willalmostcertainlycome with a significant price hike so it might be an opportune time to check out the Cerato and do a bit of haggling with your local dealer.

Cerato has played a significant part in the spectacular rise of Kia in Australia over the past decade. (Pictures: Supplied)

Momentum building for Gisborne

Things are starting to come together for Gisborne in the Bendigo Netball League.

It’s been an interrupted start to the season for the Bulldogs, who had a bye in round one and then had another week off in round three with Maryborough not having an A-grade side.

InbetweentheygotawinagainstSandhurst in the grand final rematch, before a strong performance on Saturday against South Bendigo.

The Bulldogs set the 61-37 win up in the first half.

Bulldogs coach Tarryn Rymer said they were happy to finally get out on court again.

“There’s been a lot of stop-start and it can make it hard,” she said. “Hopefully we can gain a bit of momentum.”

Rymer said she was happy with the first half against South Bendigo before they ran out of legs a bit in the second half.

She said defensively they were winning a lot of ball and the attacking combination of Torie Skrijel and Claudia Mawson are starting to build on what they did last season on the way to a premiership.

Rymer said for them they will get better as they get more games under their belt.

“We’ve had to manage a couple of players with lots of other commitments,” she said.

“Some aren’t playing VNL [Victorian Netball League] so it’s getting back into it for them.

“They are fit, it is about building the match fitness for those who are not playing elsewhere.”

Rymer said she felt like they had winners across the court in the win against South Bendigo.

She said Maddy Stewart was fitting well back into the team having missed last season.

The Bulldogs under-17s got their first win of the season on Saturday, with the group being

a very young side.

Outside of the 17s, they’ve had just one loss across all the grades in the three rounds they’ve played.

Rymer said she can’t complain about anything at the moment with how they’re going. The Bulldogs A-grade side will be at homeforthefirsttimethisseasononSaturday, hosting Golden Square.

Meanwhile on the football field, Gisborne had a second straight 150-plus point win.

Also facing South Bendigo, the Bulldogs blew the game away after quarter time, winning 12.6 (78)-1.4 (10).

Harry Luxmoore kicked eight goals while Pat McKenna kicked four goals.

Braidon Blake and Jackson Cardillo were named their best.

They will also play Golden Square on Saturday.

Tara Murray

Lions continue to win

By Tara Murray

Injuries and unavailability is leaving the Sunbury Lions to move the pieces around, but they still got another win on the board on Saturday in the Ballarat Netball League.

The Lions sit atop the ladder after four rounds, one of two undefeated teams, at this point of the season.

While on Saturday, they had a massive 98-27 win against Bacchus Marsh, the Lions depth in their squad was tested.

Lions coach Kim Bailey said anytime you score that many goals you will be happy.

“We were a bit slow in the first quarter which was disappointing as we want to jump out quickly,” she said.

“The last three quarters were really great. The combination between Tara [O’Grady] and Bec [Hicks] is really starting to flourish and their work rate is there and they’ve got the confidence to let the ball go.

Hicks shot a massive 68 goals in the win.

The Lions line up was different from what their squad they had put together at the start of the season.

Three of their usual side were missing and Bailey said they would be without them for a number of weeks.

“Eliza Gollant has done her meniscus and will be maybe another three weeks away,” she said.

“Tayla Honey is eight to six weeks away. We don’t know the extent of her injury and Lani Fauonuku is unavailable until after the under-17 Australian camp.”

On Saturday Casey Le Gros and Lauren Gilcrist came up and played handy roles. Mackenzie Wood made her A-grade debut earlier in the season, while Bailey said Emily Conn is ready to step up as a defender if they need.

“We’re starting to get some good depth at the club, it’s exciting to see,” she said. “Loz we’re using her as a floater as her daughter plays in the Calder Cannons. She’ll play some A-grade, B-grade and C-grade.

“Mackenzie came up and was amazing and Casey was yesterday [Saturday]. Liv Taylor, who played for us last year, will come back next week and help out until Eliza or Taylor are back.”

That depth will come in handy with the Lions expecting to be missing five of their top side for one game.

While the Lions are sitting on top, Bailey knows that the big tests are ahead.

“We have North Ballarat and Darley,” she said. “It’s a hard run ahead.

“We’ll have a good look and see where our depth is and where we are sitting. We’re confident we will have some good games against them.

O’Grady (Jacob Pattison) 334038_05

“We just need to make sure we make finals and go from there.”

Five Calder Cannons players have been named in the Victoria Metro squad for the under-18 boys AFL National Championships.

A squad of 31 has been named following trial matches that have been held in recent weeks. Additional players may be included in the Victoria Metro squad prior to and throughout the championships.

Victoria Metro’s squad features players from the six Coates Talent League metropolitan programs, the Calder Cannons, Eastern Ranges, Northern Knights, Oakleigh Chargers, Sandringham Dragons and Western Jets. Harry O’Farrell, Nash King, Isaac Kako, Damon Hollow and Jayden Nguyen have been selected from the Cannons, while the Knights’ Jesse Dattoli, Zak Johnson, Thomas Sims and Gabriel Stumpf are also in the squad. Lucca Grego is the only player selected from the Western Jets.

AFL National Academy members and Australia under-18 team representatives Levi Ashcroft, Tom Gross, Christian Moraes, O’Farrell, Josh Smillie, Jagga Smith and Luke Trainor all feature in the Victoria Metro squad, along with Taj Hotton and Nguyen who represented the Australia under-18 team as injury replacements.

Twelve players who represented Victoria Metro last year at the championships, including Western Jets Lucca Grego, Northern Knights Zak Johnson and Dattoli and Calder Cannons’ Nash King and Harry O’Farrell, have been named in this year’s squad.

Victoria Metro will commence its campaign on June 9 when it takes on reigning title-holder the Allies at IKON Park.

Metro’s remaining three matches will be played against Western Australia on June 23, South Australia on June 30 and Victoria Country on July 14.

Damon Hollow. (Ljubica Vrankovic)

Kirby Elliott (Jacob Pattison) 351744_07

(114)-8.13 (61) win.

Jake Sutton kicked our goals while Jake Egan and Mitch Mclean kicked three each. Egan and Fraser Ampulski were named the Lions best.

Tara

Shannon and Mawson named in Vixens squad

Western Warriors’ Ruby Shannon has been named in the Melbourne Vixens squad for the Super Netball Reserves competition.

Announced by Netball Australia, the competition has been established as a trial to support talent identification and provide additional match play opportunities for athletes on the cusp of Suncorp Super Netball.

The competition will run over five weeks from June 1 to July 7 and will be open to fans, with a number of matches to be played following SSN fixtures.

Shannon, who plays with Riddell in the Riddell District Netball League, is a key player in the Warriors championship side.

The midcourter returned recently after receiving a broken nose earlier in the season. She was part of the Vic Fury squad in the Australian National Championships last year and helped Riddell make a grand final last season.

Gisborne goaler Claudia Mawson has also been named in the squad. Mawson, who plays for Melbourne University Lightning in the VNL, was a key player in Gisborne’s premiership last year.

The rest of the team are Zali Anderson, Emily Andrew, Ruby Barkmayer, Maggie Caris, Gabby Coffey, Indya Forde, Isabelle Hodgson, Sharni Lambden, Mia Lavis, Charlotte Morey, Charli Nicol, Charlotte Sexton, Mia Van Wyk and Tara Watson.

Clubs may also elect to include SSN-contracted athletes in their squads to facilitate match play opportunities for those who play limited minutes on SSN game day.

Tracey Brereton, who has been named coach, brings a wealth of experience in the Victorian pathway both as a coach and athlete, having played for Vixens predecessor club the Melbourne Kestrels.

Netball Victoria high performance and pathways general manager Megan Simpson

said the new competition will offer valuable match play opportunities for athletes in the pathway system.

“We’re pleased to have worked with other clubs and member organisations across the country to drive this new initiative,” she said.

“We recognise the importance of supporting our athletes, coaches and officials through these initiatives, so they are prepared and capable of stepping into an SSN environment in the future.”

“The talent in our pathway deserves, and will benefit from, more opportunities to compete at this standard. We’ve selected a squad full of emerging athletes who bring great experience from their involvement within our Victorian programs and competitions. We have a passionate head coach, and I’m excited to watch Tracey work with this group of athletes to enhance their development, as they compete against the best from across the country

Warriors fade badly

By Tara Murray

Consistency continues to be a focus for the Western Warriors after another disappointing loss on Friday night against the Wilson Storage Southern Saints in the Victorian Netball League championship.

The Warriors have had an up and down debut season and against the Saints they showed glimpses of their best and worst.

The Warriors were in control of the game in the first half, before fading with the Saints making the most of it, winning 59-45.

Warriors coach Kim Bailey said it was a pretty disappointing result in the end.

“We had a really good first half of the game but we gave up the lead in the second half which was disappointing.

“The Saints had Jessie Grenvold back which helped and she shut down Kim [Borger]. Kim has been such a focal point for us the last few weeks.

“Mia Van Wyk at wing defence also shut down our attack.”

Borger still finished with 26 goals, but didn’t have her usual influence.

Bailey said while their attack end was down, there had been some pleasing work from their defence end.

She said Elly Randall and Georgia Berry both came on and had an impact.

Bailey said the biggest thing for the group at this stage was just getting that consistency going.

“We’re still building relationships across the whole four quarters,” she said. “We’re getting to know each other and there are some issues that come with not having played that much together as a unit.

“We will improve as we go. We’ll do a bit more analysing and work out when we drop off as it’s not fitness.”

The Warriors now sit second bottom with two wins from the first nine matches. They are two games outside the top four, but have played an extra game than all teams but top side Boroondara Express.

The Warriors under-23s also suffered a loss to the Saints but it was a much better

Sports shorts

RDFL

An inaccurate Macedon was able to account for Romsey in the Riddell District Football League women’s competition on Friday night. The Cats were in control all night and were able to come away with an 11.25 (91)-0.0 (0) win. Eliza Bell kicked four goals in a best on ground performance for the Cats. Laura Longergan was named the Redbacks best. On Saturday, Lancefield lost to the Mount Alexander Falcons, 9.8 (62)-2.2 (14). Kyneton and Woodend-Hesket’s match on Sunday was after deadline.

RDNL

Romsey and Riddell played out a thriller in the Riddell District Netball League on Saturday. After a close first quarter, the Bombers grew the lead to five goals at half time. The Redbacks were able to reduce the margin to two at the final quarter before the two teams couldn’t be split at the final siren, finishing 39 apiece. In other matches, Woodend-Hesket beat Diggers Rest, Melton Centrals got home against Lancefield and Wallan bounced back against Macedon.

FV

performance than the last few weeks.

The Saints took the win 52-47.

Bailey said they were happy with that performance.

“They have been decimated by injury and had three development girls in the team,” she said.

“To go down by five against a really good side was good.

“Three of their leaders are out in Eliza Gollant with a meniscus injury, Kiralee Collings who was away and Nerana Baker who was also unavailable.

“It was a much improved performance.”

Ella Closter shut 37 goals for the Warriors.

The championship side will have a bye this week with Gippsland Stars not having a side.

The under-23s will face the Stars with Bailey saying they believe they are a good chance for a win.

Bailey said the championship side would still train this week but would look to review things a bit more with the longer break.

After that the Warriors face the Casey Demons and Melbourne University.

Sunbury United finally has a win on the board in the FV state league 3 north-west competition, beating Heidelberg Eagles on Saturday. The Eagles led 3-1 at half time before United got going in the second half and was able to score four goals to come away with a 5-3 win. Jason Hayne scored two goals for United. The win moves United up to ninth on the ladder, having been on the bottom two weeks ago. In state league 5 west, Gisborne had a 3-0 win against Wyndham.

Big V

The Sunbury Jets were able to come from behind against a determined Shepparton Gators in the Big V men’s state championship on Saturday night. After leading by five points at quarter time, the Jets found themselves down by five points at the last break. A 21-11 final quarter was enough for the Jets to turn it around and win, 77-72. Joshua Yorke-Frazer top scored with 21 points.

FOR MORE SPORT, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Sunbury

Ruby Shannon (Jacob Pattison) 337292_03

Julia Woolley (Netball Victoria/Grant Treeby)

Tigers settle in to the ‘more congested’ RDFL

KynetonisfindingitsfeetintheRiddellDistrict Football League.

Having made the move from the Bendigo Football League in the off season, the Tigers have started their season 2-2 with the two wins on Good Friday and Anzac Day.

Tigers coach Ethan Foreman said it has been really good so far. The Tigers had a bye on the weekend.

“We will take two and two,” he said. “We’ve played two really strong sides in Romsey and Riddell and we’ve been able to gauge where we are at. It’s a tight competition and anyone can beat anyone.”

Forman said they were finding the RDFL competition different to what they were used to in the Bendigo league.

He said they felt that they would start to put it all together soon.

“It’s a lot more congested,” he said.

“In Bendigo there are bigger grounds and a lot more open running.

“We’re trying to bring that brand that we’re used to. We’re a very young side and full of local boys.

“It’lltakeabitoftimetogetusedtothegame plan and come together. I think it’ll happen before the halfway mark if not after the bye.”

Foreman said they would welcome back some key players after the bye which would be a big help.

Billy Mahony, who was one of the club’s big signings for the off season, will finally pull on theboots.Mahonyastrongmidfielderreturned totheclubthisseasonhavingspenttwoyearsat the Tigers previously.

James O’Sullivan, who has missed games with suspension and a niggle, is another set to return.

The Tigers this week face Macedon.

Foreman said it was another one of those matches they were looking forward to.

“Ireallyratethem,”hesaid.“Ilookedatthem in round one against Riddell.

“We have a few former Kyneton boys at Macedon. I can see it becoming a massive rivalry.” In results on Saturday, Riddell is the only undefeated team after five rounds after beating Romsey. It was a comprehensive win by the Bombers who found their kicking boots this week, winning 15.6 (96)-6.10 (46).

Dean Galea kicked six goals for the Bombers while Kamen Ogilvie was named their best.

Justin Waldron was named the Redbacks best. Diggers Rest had a solid win against Woodend-Hesket, winning 13.10 (88)-5.7 (37), while Wallan was too strong for Macedon, winning 10.10 (70)-7.5 (47).

Lancefield is the only team without a win, losing to Melton Centrals 14.10 (94)-7.8 (50).

Roos keeping the faith

By Tara Murray

The Sunbury Kangaroos are sticking strong despite a number of season ending injuries early in the Essendon District Football League women’s division 2 season.

After a strong off season with a number of players returning to the club there was plenty of excitement at the club.

TheKangarooshavetwowinsfromtheirfirst four matches, with coach Chris Dunne saying it’s been tough with so many injuries.

“We’ve had four ACLs in the first three games,” he said before the weekend’s match with Glenroy. “It is what it is and we still have quite good knowledge in the team.

“The players we’ve lost are still a big part of the team and they are sticking around us. They want to tape their knees and go out there and play, but unfortunately it doesn’t work like that.” Dunne said despite the injuries, the playing group continues to push each week.

Against Taylors Lakes they were in the game atthreequartertimebeforefallingawayasthey finished with just 12 players on the field.

“Weranoutofpuff,”hesaid.“Theywillcome out this week and get on with it.

“We should have a couple more back this week and we’re putting feelers out at the moment and trying to put the right people in positions. “We’re slowly recruiting more and have a couple more starting with us this week, the side is really positive.”

DunnesaidithadbeengoodtoseeTylahBell and Bronte Koutras return to the club after a few years away. He said they were hoping to see a few more players out there this season.

Dunne in his first season as senior women’s coach at the Kangaroos said he was enjoying the challenge. He said one of the things he was most proud of was seeing his two daughters run out and play together for the first time.

The Kangaroos faced Glenroy on Saturday. It’s the first time the two clubs women’s sides

Kangaroos get another win

The Sunbury Kangaroos got their third win of the season, while Rupertswood and East Sunbury both suffered losses in the Essendon District Football League.

The Kangaroos had to fight hard against Coburg Districts to get the win in their division 2 clash.

Scores were level at quarter time and then the Kangaroos led by three points at quarter time. There was still nothing in it at three quarter time with Coburg Districts leading by a point.

Three goals to one in the final quarter was enough for the Kangaroos to get the win, 11.8 (74)-9.9 (63).

Andrew Siekai kicked three goals for the Kangaroos, while Thomas Eiszele kicked two.

Shawn Bowden and skipper Mitch Streiff were named their best.

The Kangaroos now sit 3-1 with a bye this week.

Elsewhereindivision2,EastSunbury had a tough match against Burnside Heights.

After sticking with the Bears in the first quarter the Thunder were blown away, with the Bears winning 25.20 (170)-5.6 (36).

Sean Egan was the only multiple goal kicker for the Thunder with two goals. He was named in their best along with Simon Colllis and Joshua Crump.

have faced off.

The Kangaroos took control early on and were able to come away with the win, 9.8 (62)-5.8 (38).

Bailee Said in her return to the side after a coupleofyears,wasnamedtheKangaroosbest. Said was one of the premier midfielders in the competition before moving to play at Coburg.

Nat Dunne kicked three goals in the win.

“We tend to start strong and they run out of legs,” he said. “Hopefully we have a few more players that we can run the game out a bit.”

In other results, Sunbury Lions got the win against East Sunbury.

It was a one-sided affair with the undefeated Lions beating the Thunder, 13.20 (98)-0.1 (1).

Brianna Spratling, who moved into the midfield this week, was named best on ground for the Lions. Chantelle Harding was the Thunder’s best. If you’re interested in playing for the Sunbury Kangaroos, contact Chris on 0466 578 404.

The Thunder are one of three win less teams after four rounds. It faces another of the win less sides this Saturday in Glenroy.

In division 1, Rupertswood fell just short of a second win for the season.

Facing Oak Park, the two sides had a back and forth tussle all day.

The Sharks led at both quarter and half time, before Oak Park took a 10 point lead into the final break. That lead would be the difference in the end, with Oak Park winning, 15.1 (100)-13.9 (87).

Clayton Bonello kicked four goals for the Sharks.

Ethan Fitzpatrick and Brett Martin were named their best.

The Sharks, who sit in eighth spot, face Craigieburn this week.

Kyneton’s Angus Nolte kicks. (Joe Mastroianni). 285811_13

Nat Dunne (Ljubica Vrankovic) 405194_17

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