Star Weekly - Sunbury Macedon Ranges - 14th May 2024

Homegrown winners

The edgy veg competition has wrapped up for a third year, with

cafe, Social Foundry, won the

award for the

from the 17 venues involved. ■ Story: Page 11.

Water upgrades trickle in

By Zoe Moffatt

Sunbury TAFE will receive $17 million of already committed funding in the 2024-25 budget, while water upgrades appear to be one of the only things trickling in for the Macedon Ranges.

Treasurer Tim Pallas released his 10th state budget on May 7, with education fundingincluding a $400 bonus for families of eligible students – a focus for the upcoming financial year.

The new Sunbury TAFE, partnered with the Bendigo Kangan Institute, will receive $17.324 million in the 2024-25 financial year, of its $25 million in funding.

Other schools to receive funding in the area for the next financial year include $10.591 million for Diggers Rest Primary School and $6.541millionforGisborneSecondaryCollege.

IntheMacedonRanges,theKynetonrecycled water pipeline total estimated investment was incorrectly reported by more than $4 million in last year’s budget.

The correct forecast expenditure of the project is $8.57 million, with $837,000 to be delivered in the 2024-25 budget.

The Gisborne recycled water plant upgrade will receive $13.807 million of its $58.564 million budget in the 2024-25 financial year.

Completion of the Romsey water filtration plant upgrade has been revised to finish

between October to December 2025, with $17.862 million to be delivered in this budget.

There will be $8.931 million of the $27.961 million budget remaining to be delivered for the upgrade.

The Kyneton sewer compliance received $350,000, the Kyneton sewerage Jeffrey Street sewer pump station received $2.212 million and various areas, including Kyneton received $3.926millionforlogreductionvalueupgrades at water treatment plants.

Trentham water treatment plant capacity upgradereceived$300,000andtheMalmsbury reservoir outlet tower walkway renewal received $443,000.

Turning towards health, the state

government is also progressing the delivery of seven community hospitals, including in Sunbury, which is due to be completed in 2024.

However, residents waiting on progress for the Melbourne Airport rail link will continue to wait, with the project delayed at least four years, with other projects being prioritised.

Mr Pallas said the state government had to focus on other areas of development.

“We have a huge amount of funding tied up with the Melbourne Airport Rail project. We need to be realistic about the project and its timeline,” he said.

“We’ve made the sensible decision to acknowledge the project is now at least four years delayed.”

the Flying Pigeon restaurant claiming its second win in a row in the restaurant category, while social enterprise

top

cafe category. The month-long initiative concluded at the end of April, with locals and visitors voting on their favourite dishes

Veg Action group member Lucy Campbell with award winners Mel Henderson, Jess Ford and Stephanie and Stephen Rocard, with group member Claire Rowland.

(Damjan Janevski) 404871_05

Further delays for airport rail

By Hannah Hammoud

There seems to be no end in sight for the blame game being played between the state governmentandMelbourneAirport,following a decision in last week’s state budget to delay the Melbourne Airport Rail Link by at least four years.

Treasurer Tim Pallas handed down the 2024-25 state budget on May 7, revealing the airportraillinkhasbeenhitwithfurtherdelays of at least four years from its initial estimated completion date of 2029.

Mr Pallas said while the Metro Tunnel, the West Gate Tunnel and the North East Link projects are still being delivered, the state

government has a “huge amount of funding tied up with the Melbourne Airport Rail project”.

“Weneedtoberealisticabouttheprojectand its timeline,” Mr Pallas said.

“We’ve made the sensible decision to acknowledge the project is now at least four years delayed.”

The state government and Melbourne Airport have failed to reach an agreement on the location of the proposed Melbourne Airport train station, with the airport holding firm in its preference for it to be constructed underground while state government’s plans released in 2022 said its preference was to have an above ground station.

A Melbourne Airport spokesperson said the timing of the project has always been a matter for the government.

“MelbourneAirportwaspartofaconsortium that offered up to $7 billion towards an undergroundairportstationandexpresstracks from Sunshine,” the spokesperson said.

“The state government rejected this.”

In April last year, then Transport Minister Jacinta Allan flagged that the Melbourne Airport Rail project would not be completed by 2029, citing “challenging” negotiations with Melbourne Airport as a contributing factor to the delay.

“Ithasbeenchallengingtonegotiatewiththe airport about how the project will be delivered

Sixty sparkling years of marriage

Surrounded by family, friends and three important letters, Sunbury residents Frank and Hilary Carlin celebrated six decades of marriage last month.

Long gone are the anniversary presents of paper, tin or even gold, which is traditionally gifted for a 50th wedding anniversary.

To celebrate 60 years of marriage, the glittering gift of diamonds is traditionally assigned to celebrate the momentous achievement that many don’t make.

But for Frank and Hilary, the sparkle of their years together shines brighter than any diamond.

Meeting at a dance in Footscray, the couple went on to have three children and are prominent members of the Sunbury community.

“I went to a dance in Footscray in 1951 … and saw this pretty girl in the hall,” Frank said. “I introduced myself, asked for a dance and I was hooked.

“It ended up with us getting engaged two years after that, married and [then having] three kids.”

Frank said celebrating this milestone means that he is getting older but “it’s great to be alive … and have a good wife alongside me”.

For Hilary, who moved to Australia from England when she was 12 years old, having three beautiful children together has been a highlight.

“I like going out to dinner together and havingqualitytimewithoneanother,”shesaid.

“[For the anniversary] I got a diamond ring and a diamond eternity ring, which was very nice. We also got a card from the governor general, prime minister and a card from King Charles and his wife.”

Hilary’s parting words of wisdom about why their marriage has lasted so long was a simple one.

“Be kind to one another, love one another and don’t stray,” she said.

Zoe Moffatt

Grants open for applications

Applications for Hume council’s 2025 community grants have now opened, with abouthalfmilliondollarsallocatedforfunding.

Councillors endorsed round one of the annual program at a meeting on April 29, with applicants accepted from Monday, May 13 to Friday, June 21.

In the agenda, council said the program supports the creation of a community that is resilient,inclusive,andthriving,andshowcases council’s commitment to social justice, equity, and civic engagement.

Speaking to the motion, Cr Joseph Haweil said he knows the program has had a very positive impact in the community.

“It’s important that we have a program like this and I’m glad Hume [council] is in a sound financial position to be able to provide a program of just about half a million dollars,”

he said.

“We do know that to be a resilient, inclusive andthrivingcommunitywedohavetosupport those in the community who do so much work for no money.

“I know that the value they contribute to the Hume community goes far beyond half a million dollars. Through them, we are very appreciative of the contribution they make to our city… [and] residents.”

The proposed allocation for the 2025 program is outlined through a number of categories, including $70,000 for large projects.

Cr Haweil, Cr Chris Hollow and Cr Jarrod Bell were nominated for the 2025 grant program councillor review panel, representing one councillor per ward.

on the land that they lease from the federal government to run the airport,” Ms Allan told ABC Radio at the time.

“It’s been slower than I would have liked.”

A spokesperson from Hume council said council was disappointed by the delays and hoped to see the project be catered to soon.

“We knew that Victorian infrastructure projects would suffer as the state government seekstoreignindebtthroughitslatestbudget,” the spokesperson said.

“We are disappointed that the airport rail link has been delayed as a result of this as it’s a project that Melbourne’s north has long deserved, and we would expect it to be a top priority for future infrastructure funding.”

Recognising excellence

MacedonRanges-bornhealthpromotion charity, Live4Life, has won the National LiFE Award for the communities in action category.

Suicide Prevention Australia announced the recipients of the annual awards on May 1, which celebrate the commitment and determination of those working towards the reduction of suicide within communities.

Live4Lifewasrecognisedfordelivering teen and youth mental health First Aid traininginschoolsandwidercommunity, facilitating conversations about mental health and suicide prevention, and promoting mental health ambassadors.

Suicide Prevention Australia chief executive Nieves Murray said “The awards celebrate and amplify initiatives that are breaking new ground so that otherscanlearnandembedbest-practice suicide prevention solutions across their communities”.

“The awards are a vehicle for showcasing innovative approaches to suicide prevention so that together we can all work towards a world without suicide. Every step taken towards suicide prevention is a step towards a more compassionate and informed society. Our award recipients have taken not just stepsbutleapsforwardinthisendeavour.

“We extend our congratulations and gratitude to the 2024 recipients for working so tirelessly to help improve the lives of others in our local communities.”

Nominationsforthe2025LiFEAwards open soon, and locals are encouraged to keep an eye out for community members or workplaces doing innovative work in suicide prevention.

Zoe Moffatt

Frank and Hilary Carlin celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary. (Damjan Janevski) 404396_01

Environmental change

Macedon Ranges council is inviting residents with a passion for land management practices to celebrate and learn more about council’s award-winning Healthy Landscapes program on May 24.

The event will take place at the Kyneton Town Hall, with a panel of local farmers and land managers sharing stories of their journey through the program.

Since its launch in 2018, the program has delivered webinars to more than 2000 participants, field days to more than 500 participants and enabled positive environmental change to about 4000 hectares, council said.

Council planning and environment director Rebecca Stockfeld said the evening is an opportunity to celebrate the program’s successes and connect with other locals with similar land aspirations, share knowledge and foster collaboration.

“We have heard inspiring stories of positive changesresultingfromtheHealthyLandscapes program since its implementation,” she said.

“So we’re delighted that the program is truly assisting rural landholders in creating a sustainable future.”

The program guides landowners on how to implement sustainable land management practices and make their land healthier and productive by using fewer inputs and creating healthier soils and waterways.

It won the Premier’s Choice Regional Recognition Award in 2021, and more recently wasshortlistedasafinalistintheSustainability Initiative category of the 2024 LGPro Awards for Excellence.

Agribusiness veteran Stuart Grainger, from Newham, said the program was helpful towards his professional development.

“My company has probably spent over a milliondollarsonmyprofessionaldevelopment, Harvard and other world-renowned institutions and this is much better than anything I’ve ever done,” he said.

The evening will start at 6.30pm, and registrations are essential. Details:https:// shorturl.at/GMNX1 or 5422 0333.

Briefs

Racial discrimination forum

Hume council is inviting residents to attend a forum on May 16, about supporting Hume’s diverse community and addressing racial discrimination. The first forum was held on May 9, and the second forum will be held on May 16, from 11am to 12.30pm, at the Holy Child Primary School Hub in Dallas. The session will unpack recent research findings and attendees will have the opportunity to provide ideas on how to work together to foster community support and learn avenues for reporting racism or accessing support. Details: https://shorturl.at/ dioAU

Community funding scheme

Applications are open for Macedon Ranges council’s annual community funding scheme. Applications for the 2024-25 round will close on Sunday, May 26 at 11pm. Details: 5422 0333 or grants@mrsc.vic.gov.au

Correction StarWeekly incorrectly reported last week that Macedon Ranges council’s draft Special Charge Scheme Policy was open for community consultation. Council made a decision to endorse the draft version of the policy at a meeting in April, which had already been out for consultation prior.

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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

The 2022-23 Healthy Landscapes participants at the holistic grazing management course, with councillor Jennifer Anderson (front left) and council’s private land conservation officer Jason McAinch.

Five-star sustainability

Newham Primary School is continuing to kick sustainability goals and has been short-listed for Victoria’s largest celebration of school volunteers taking sustainability action.

Asoneof22schoolsincontentionforthetitle of ResourceSmart School of the Year, Newham Primary School has been recognised for its continued work in the sustainability sector.

In2023,theschoolparticipatedinandhosted teacher network meetings and contributed to developing the Department of Education’s Sustainability in Schools Policy.

It joined the container deposit scheme and implemented a smart bin system, reducing the community’s landfill generation.

‘‘ These schools are not only making a difference now but they’re leaving a legacy for the next generation ’’ - Katie Pahlow

The school campus also features a wetland and biodiversity outdoor learning area, creating a rich learning environment for the school’s 53 motivated students.

Sustainability teacher Libby Fullard said she was really excited to find out the school had been shortlisted.

“We teach sustainability as a specalised subject which is unusual,” Ms Fullard said.

“Every school has specialist subjects and we choose it as we think it’s important, and we can teach other parts of the curriculum under the umbrella of sustainability.

“The fact that we focus on sustainability ties together the different topics we study in the classroom. They learn how waste impacts

biodiversity … [and] draw connections between things.

“It’ssoimportantforthemtounderstandthat the work they do now at school in sustainably will impact them and the environment in the future.”

With the theme of legendary legacies, Sustainability Victoria’s director regions and community action Katie Pahlow said it is a celebration of the outstanding work achieved.

“These schools are not only making a

difference now but they’re leaving a legacy for thenextgenerationthroughtheirsustainability endeavours,” she said. “The ResourceSmart Schools Awards is an opportunity to recognise the tremendous achievements of the teachers, students,schoolstaffandthewidercommunity who are creating a sustainable future.”

This year’s winners will be announced at an awards ceremony on June 4. Details: www.sustainability.vic.gov.au/resourcesmartschools-awards-2024-finalists

Lancefield kinder delayed

Works on the new kindergarten and Maternal and Child Health Centre in Lancefield have been delayed due to the discovery of a cultural artefact.

Macedon Ranges council announced the delay on April 24, and said the artefact was found during site preparation works.

According to protocols around such unexpected discoveries, works on the site were immediately paused and project managers the Victorian School Building Authority (VSBA) consulted with the relevant Traditional Owner Corporation.

The corporation has engaged a heritage consultant and is preparing a cultural heritage management plan to enable the works to progress.

Council’s community director Maria Weiss said the delay to the opening of the facility was disappointing given the community need for increased local services.

“This means that the new kinder and Maternal and Child Health Centre will not open as scheduled,” she said.

“We will continue to work closely with the VSBA and update families –and the broader public – as the project progresses, including when we have a firmer idea of revised timelines.”

Council said the project, which is located next to Lancefield Primary School, will feature a modern three-room facility which is largely built offsite through modular construction.

VSBA: 1800 896 950 or vsba@ education.vic.gov.au

Newham Primary School student George, sustainability teacher Libby Fullard, students Bea, Annie and Charlie. (Supplied)

Councils share budget concerns

Hume and Macedon Ranges councils have both acknowledged the need for a frugal 2024-25 state budget, but have echoed disappointment over missed money.

Hume council welcomed the cost-of-living relief for families, including the $400 school student bonus, free eye-care for children and the Active Kids Program, as well as funding for Sunbury TAFE.

However, it said reductions in the Growing Suburbs Fund, delaying the airport rail link’s construction and increasing the waste levy and fire services levy are of concern.

Mayor Naim Kurt said the continued cuts

Shaving

to the Growing Suburbs Fund jeopardised council’s ability to partner and deliver much needed community infrastructure.

“The significant increase in the waste levy over the past four years, now at 150 [per cent also] poses a burden on ratepayers,” he said.

“[It] exacerbates issues like illegal and commercial-scale dumping across Hume. We need to reassess the program’s effectiveness in waste reduction.”

Further north in the Macedon Ranges, council chief executive Bernie O’Sullivan said council was particularly pleased to see an additional $400,000 committed for the new

for a cause

With his dark blond hair drifting to the floor around him, 11-year-old Sunbury resident Charlie Butler watches his appearance change in the hairdresser’s mirror.

The decision to shave off his beloved mullet wasaneasyoneforCharlieafterhisfathertook his own life in March, 2023.

He said he wanted to shave his mullet to inspire anyone struggling with their mental health, while raising money for the Black Dog Institute.

Through 100 generous donations, Charlie raised $4535 and climbed to 22nd on the Mullets for Mental Health fundraiser’s leaderboard.

His mother, Katherine Butler, said 159 people with suicidal thoughts can now receive help from this money raised.

“He was really nervous … It brought back a lotofmemoriesbecausethelasttimehehadhis head shaved like that was when his dad did it

when he was four years old,” Katherine said.

“He looks so different … but he’s keen to get his mullet back. He’s going to grow it back and his other brother is growing one as well.”

Katherine said when he decided to make the chop they didn’t even think they would raise $250, but they had two individual donations of more than $500.

“His dad would have been so proud. [The moneyraisedcanhelp]159people,that’spretty goddamn good.

“It needs to be spoken about more, a lot of people don’t speak about men’s mental health.”

Black Dog Institute said the money raised will help drive real change and fund ground-breaking mental health research.

If you or someone you know is in need support, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14. Details: https://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au/ contact-us/

Zoe Moffatt

Author releases first novel

Having spent years sitting with a simmering ambition to write, Riddells Creek author Kate Beattie will release her first novel later this month.

Beattie’s journey toward the publication of her contemporary fiction, A Few Shades Greener,isafamiliarstoryofacreativeperson coming into their craft after building a family and career.

Having juggled the load of being a parent and part-time teacher, she finally found the resolve to follow through on her dream after receiving positive feedback on a writing competition.

“That was something where I thought: OK, I must be good enough,” she said.

“The little bit of writing I’ve done, I’ve always felt proud of it, I’ve always felt I can do it.

“But it’s always been my job, my kids, my family, that slows down any side hustle.”

Set in Riddells Creek, A Few Shades Greeneris about a woman aspiring to a career in writing.

As parts of her seemingly perfect life begin to unravel, Sarah, the novel’s protagonist, is forced to confront her emotions.

“It’s about courage, forgiveness and living a true life,” Beattie said.

“In the beginning it was slow going with big gaps in-between. But I found that I was enjoyingitsomuchIwasbuildingmomentum and sitting down every second I had to write.”

The Riddells Creek Neighborhood House is hosting a launch for AFewShadesGreeneron May 25.

Romsey skatepark and Lions Park Reserve upgrades.

“[This adds] to the $550,000 previously committed by the Victorian government to help make these new recreational facilities a reality,” he said. “Council sought feedback on proposeddesignsforthenewskateparkearlier this year and is continuing planning work, with the aim to provide an update at a future council meeting.”

Mr O’Sullivan said council echoes shared sentiments from the Municipal Association of Victoria, Regional Cities Victoria and Rural Councils Victoria, in relation to some positive

regional investments but also some ongoing concerns about funding gaps.

“We are pleased to see the continuation of a level of funding towards regional road upgrades and maintenance. However, we do share concerns that this funding is still not enoughtosupportcouncilstomoreproactively address and keep up with deteriorating roads that we maintain.

“Wewouldhavealsolikedtohaveseenmore support through previous funding streams such as the Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Fund, or to be included for eligibility in the Growing Suburbs Fund.”

Kate Beattie is about to release her first book entitled A Few Shades Greener. (Damjan Janevski) 403937

Charlie Butler with his new haircut, and before his mullet was shaved. (Pictures: Supplied)

Councillor stands with Palestine

By Zoe Moffatt

A Merri-Bek councillor who attended Hume council’s disrupted meeting last month said she wanted to stand in solidarity with the community over the conflict in Palestine and Gaza.

Cr Sue Bolton attended the April 29 meeting which was brought to a standstill when attendees disrupted the proceedings yelling ‘free Palestine’ and ‘shame’. In speaking about her decision to attend the meeting, Cr Bolton said she went to stand

in solidarity and did not see it as interfering.

“I don’t make a habit of going to all other councils’ meetings,” she said.

“I wasn’t particularly going to try and put pressure on the councillors but it was really in solidarity with the Hume community.

“There’s a connection between the council so I don’t see myself as interfering in the council, but there out of solidarity.”

Representing Merri-Bek’s north-east ward, Cr Bolton said she is connected to the Hume area due to the physical proximity and constituents moving between the areas.

“There’s a lot of people that used to live in Fawkner and Glenroy and Hadfeild, who have been forced out because of the cost of housing and now live within the Hume council area.

“So there’s a connection there with a lot of people who live in Hume … [and] a lot of issues don’t stop at the borders of local councils.”

Whenaskedaboutcouncils’roleinconflicts that are taking place thousands of kilometres away, and responsibilities of roads, rates and rubbish, Cr Bolton said all councils can do is a level of advocacy.

Join Sunbury SES for an open day

Sunbury State Emergency Service (SES) unit will open its doors to the public later this month.

The unit will host an open day on May 25, from 10am to 3pm, at 21 McDougall Road, Sunbury.

The family-friendly event offers an immersive experience into the world of emergency response, featuring exciting demonstrations, engaging activities, and a celebration of community resilience.

Attendees will have the opportunity to witness heart-pounding road rescue demonstrations at 11.30am and 1.30pm, showcasing the advanced techniques and equipment utilised by SES volunteers,

including the iconic Jaws of Life.

Visitors can explore the impressive fleet of rescue trucks and boats, gaining insight into the vital role these vehicles play in saving lives during emergencies.

Media and public relations section leader Jarrod Bell said the open day is a unique opportunity for the community to witness first-hand the dedication and expertise of the volunteers.

“We are excited to showcase the critical work we do in serving and protecting our community, and we invite everyone to join us for a day of education, entertainment, and community engagement,” he said.

“We are committed to fostering strong

relationships within our community, and the open day is an excellent platform for us to connect with residents and share important safety messages.

“By engaging with the public in a fun and interactive setting, we hope to raise awareness about emergency preparedness and inspire individuals to become more involved in their local SES unit.”

Attendees can participate in a variety of SES activities from face painting to interactive demonstrations, there will be something for everyone to enjoy.

The open day is free, with refreshments and a sausage sizzle available for purchase.

Details: https://fb.me/e/8x0AH5qPj

“There are many things that councils advocate on, that it doesn’t have control over,” she said.

“All councils have human rights policies or some form of human rights or social justice … policies.

“Councils don’t have full control over roads, rates and rubbish, and councils also do a lot more than roads, rates and rubbish.”

This pressure on councils to address the ongoing conflict has continued to bubble away across the country, and has resulted in numerous calls for a ceasefire in hostilities.

Malmsbury’s Village Green has received a makeover amid Autumn Festival celebrations, following a council trial to refresh popular public open spaces.

In an effort to also consolidate resources, the open space team from Macedon Ranges council completed a maintenance blitz from April 8 to April 12.

During this blitz, the team repaired and refreshed existing assets such as park furniture, improved the greenery including garden bed maintenance and tree works, and topped up paths and installed fresh gravel around signage and artworks.

Open Space leader Ryan Hughes said the objective of the blitz was to refresh and visually improve the area for the Malmsbury community.

“Our focus is on improving and maintaining these spaces for our residents and visitors,” Mr Hughes said.

“We’re seeing if it’s cost-effective to have our open space crews step away from their normal maintenance roles, to improve council assets throughout the shire.”

Council said Malmsbury was selected for the trial due to its size, its identified need for a refresh and the ability to draw from existing budgets to complete the required works.

The trial’s effectiveness will now be assessed by council, which will confirm whether similar blitzes could be strategically undertaken at other sites throughout the shire.

Community feedback is welcomed via mrsc@mrsc.vic.gov.au

Open Space Strategy goes out for public consultation

Hume council has endorsed its draft Open Space Strategy for six weeks of community consultation, in the aim to set out directions and commitments to meet the ongoing community open space needs.

In the agenda, council said the strategy seeks to protect and grow Hume’s open space assets by setting priorities for the next 15 years.

The Hume area is home to more than 588 reservesand440walkwayscoveringmorethan seven per cent of the municipality.

At a meeting on April 29, councillor Jarrod Bell said across Hume almost 95 per cent of

homes are within a 400 metre walk of an open space in the municipality.

“However, there are certain within our community that don’t have that access,” he said. “We have a draft plan to have a look at fixing that.

“This [strategy] updates our 2010 plan and talksaboutourplansandourprioritiesmoving forward into the next 15 years.

“We need a plan and strategy to guide and leadusasacommunity,asanorganisationinto supporting [and] improving these open scapes, ensuring they continue to be relevant, useful

and enjoyable places.”

Cr Bell said the plan has been developed in conjunction with traditional owners, with a goal of protecting things like waterways.

“I encourage the community to take a moment,havealookatthedocument,consider whatitmeansforyouandyourfamilyandhave your say to make this document … better,” he said.

The draft strategy applies the framework of protect, optimise and grow. Council said it seeks to protect conservation, heritage and Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung values, in addition

to protecting open space against development and climate change.

Council said the strategy commits to designing and maintaining open spaces for a mixofvisitorexperiences,includingincreasing tree canopy in open space reserves to 70 per cent canopy cover by 2050.

In focusing on growth, council said the high proximity to open space falls to 69 per cent in the Somerton precinct and 79 per cent in the Broadmeadows precinct, and the strategy aims to address these inequities.

Zoe Moffatt

Sunbury residents will be able to learn more about the SES at its open day on May 25. (Sunbury SES)

Challenging road to motherhood

On Sunday, families around Australia gathered to celebrate Mother’s Day and the influence of mothers in society. For some mothers, the road to parenthood has been challenging and unconventional, as Zoe Moffatt finds out.

When Macedon Ranges resident Rachael Munyawarara dreamed of motherhood,shepicturedobstetrician appointments, maternity clothes and birthing suites.

Meeting her partner, Tindi Munyawarara more than a decade ago, Rachael said they would spend their time dreaming about a big family, but like so many women around the country, Rachael’s dream was dampened with ongoing fertility issues.

‘‘ I didn’t know until I was in the role that I could truly feel like a mother without, like, birthing that child myself ’’ - Rachael Munyawarara

“I’ve always wanted to carry a child in my womb … I wanted the birth and I wanted to experience those nine months,” she said.

“That was really hard for me, I’ve had to grieve the loss of that.”

When Rachael and Tindi decided to pivot their journey and venture down the path of foster care it was 2016. They had married in 2011 and were excited to start the difficult journey to grow their family.

“We were so happy to begin a family as soon as we could and realised pretty soon into our relationship that we may not be able to do that … this is when we started our foster care journey,” Rachael said. “We initially began the infant adoption process in about 2016 … but

soon realised it was near impossible due to such low numbers of infants being offered up for adoption in Australia.

“I remember the eligibility criteria back then was that you had to be average BMI which … if my husband [had] an average BMI, he would

View the final designs for the new road bridges

have needed to go back to what he [weighed] when he was about 13 years old.”

Due to this requirement, Rachel and Tindi decided to enter into foster care for children, and in October, 2019, their now adopted son Alex moved in with them.

We’re removing the level crossings at Old Calder Highway and Watsons Road, Diggers Rest.

Construction to build the new road bridges will begin soon and the level crossings will be gone for good in 2025.

Final designs for both bridges are now available. We’re inviting the community to view the designs and attend an upcoming community information session.

Find out more about the project by visiting levelcrossings.vic.gov.au/ diggers-rest

For languages other than English please call 9209 0147

“[Alex] was three and he’d had numerous foster carers … the biggest trauma for him [was] the amount of moves.”

While the journey to adopt Alex was filled with support from his biological parents, Rachelsaiditwasfilledwithstretchedtimelines and “red tape”.

In November, 2022, Rachel and Tindi were able to finalise the adoption process through a virtual meeting in court.

“I just remember when it was all done … and we closed the laptop lid, my son turned to us and said, ‘so does this mean that no one can drive up my driveway and take me away?’

“Thatwashisquestion,hisveryfirstquestion, it’s just horrific.”

Despite feeling heartbroken, Rachael said she also felt overjoyed they could answer that question–Alexwasnotgoingtobetakenaway.

Fast forward about 18 months, Rachael has just celebrated her second Mother’s Day with Alex as her adopted son.

“I just remember feeling like oh my gosh, this is motherhood. I didn’t know until I was in the role that I could truly feel like a mother without, like, birthing that child myself.

“I could not feel any more like a mother to [Alex] because I am mothering [him] every single day of my life. I feel truly like a mother, which has made Mother’s Day.”

When asked to describe what motherhood means to her, Rachael is thoughtful and considered in her answer, undoubtedly shaped by her more than decade journey to this moment.

“Forme,it’sbeinginthetrencheswithachild every single day. Being right there with them beingthereforboththejoyandthechallenges.”

YOUR NEW CAREER ... starts here

View the final designs, learn more about construction and sign up for a community information session at our online engagement hub by scanning the QR code or visiting engage.vic.gov.au/lxrpdiggers-rest

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The successful applicant will need to possess good people skills to enable them to meet with local businesses to sell solutions through our advertising platforms to help promote their business.

Applicants will need their own reliable vehicle for which we will provide an allowance.

The position is salaried, plus we offer an open ended commission scheme.

Send your application letter and resume to: Advertising Sales Manager, Mandy Clark mandy.clark@starnewsgroup.com.au

View when travelling east over the new road bridge at Watsons Road, Diggers Rest. Artist impression only, subject to change.

Tindi and Rachael Munyawarara with their son Alex. (Supplied)

Homegrown winners

By Zoe Moffatt

With the smell of truffle mixed mushrooms, pestoandporcinidustintheair,Kyneton-based cafeSocialFoundryplatesupitsaward-winning combination with fresh avocado on sourdough toast.

For cafe manager Jess Ford, it’s a meal she often eats for lunch, and will stay on thespecialsboardatthecafeforaboutamonth.

“[The dish] was a variation of a meal we had on our previous menu … we wanted a lot of flavours without relying on [ingredients like] goat’s cheese or eggs,” she said.

While the team at Social Foundry were feeling hopeful and happy with the dish they had created, Ms Ford said there were a lot of good cafes that entered the competition.

“We had a couple of people come in who mentioned they were trying all the venues [in thecompetition],butwealsohadalotofpeople

visit from Melbourne.

“Once they saw the promo card on the table they were happy to try.”

Ms Ford said the cafe is about to change its menu, and looks forward to entering the competition next year.

In the restaurant category, Gisborne based The Flying Pigeon restaurant was once again crowned the winner with its crunchy and crispy wok tossed green beans made with a sweet, smokey savoury vegan XO paste.

The Flying Pigeon owners Stephen and Stephanie Rocard have now claimed the restaurant award for two years in a row, following their winning Yuxiang eggplant dish last year.

With a range of inclusive meal options, such as plant based, low fodmap and no soy or nut dishes, locals can check out The Flying Pigeon on Goode Street in Gisborne.

Theedgyvegawardsandtrailinitiallystarted

in 2022 by the Veg Action group in an effort to encourage people to eat more vegetables and try new dishes.

Project co-ordinator Lucy Campbell said the initiative is great for people that might be hesitant to try plant based or haven’t cooked that way before.

“[When you try eating plant based meals out] I think people realise that you can have beautiful food and don’t need meat on dairy or anything to make it super tasty,” she said.

“A lot of the cafes [and restaurants] are using local produce, so things that are growing seasonally in the Macedon Ranges and they’re working with what’s local.

“It helps keep prices down to eat locally sourced food and that can be amazingly cheap to have legumes as your protein source as opposed to buying meat.”

Details: https://veg.mrsg.org.au/ edgy-veg-awards

Sunbury pool cost blowout

Hume council will bear the full cost of the Sunbury pool works, following confirmation the insurer denied its claim.

The announcement comes following a shocking year of setbacks for the pool in 2023, after a leak was discovered on May 12. At a meeting in October, council said the repair and improvement bill totalled $1.148 million.

In response to questions from Star Weekly, a Hume council spokesperson said council does not typically make public comments on the outcome of insurance claims.

“Council lodged a claim in May, 2023, for costs associated with repairs to the indoor 25 [metre] pool. A specific amount was not included in the claim,” the spokesperson said.

“The insurer (Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance) provided advice that the claim was denied as the leak was likely caused by gradual deterioration and normal ground movements (which was not covered by the policy).

“Whilst the pool was closed, council took the opportunity to undertake additional improvement works which is a positive for the community.”

Much like the repair timeline, the cost to fix the pool quickly blew out last year.

Council commenced repairs on May 22,2023,andinitiallysaiditexpectedthe pool to be closed for two weeks, with an estimated repair cost of $45,000.

The pool eventually reopened on January 15, 2024, with the repair and associated works costing $525,550.

Stephen and Stephanie Rocard from The Flying Pigeon, and Mel Henderson and Jess Ford from The Social Foundary. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 404871

Laffan hits it for six in Vanuatu

It’s been a big 12 months for Chris Laffan who has gone from coaching Craigieburn to taking charge as the head coach of the Vanuatu cricket program. He chats with Tara Murray about the journey and the incredible result that got the world talking.

When Vanuatu’s women’s team upset Zimbabweatthewomen’sT20cricket World Cup qualifying tournament last month, among those watching from the side lines was Craigieburn’s Chris Laffan.

Laffan, a former player and coach at Craigieburn, has had a big role to play in the Vanuatu program in recent times.

LastMayhewasappointedVanuatucricket’s high performance manager and national coach, and it has been a massive 12 months since.

“It’s been a bit of a whirlwind,” he said. “All starting to come together and I can start to see some of the things that have been put in place and that’s really pleasing.

“I guess that 12-month mark gives you a good time to make an assessment on a lot of that as well.”

Laffan said the role had been a learning curve as he’s made the transition across from Australia.

He said he’s had to wear several different hats to make everything work.

“Sometimes you’re a little bit jealous of some of the other [sports] coaching staff and numbers that they have, thinking what you coulddowiththosesortsofnumbers,” hesaid.

“Weknow,Iandwhoevertakesuptheroleat Vanuatu … wear a lot of hats.

“But at the same time that’s one of the enjoyments and something that definitely drives you from a passion point of view to get up in the morning and know that you know, it could be a bit of a different focus and where we’ve got to drive our energy from.

“Whether that’s, you know, conversations around from a nutrition point of view or fitness point of view and back to cricket games and skill.

“It’s been a great experience so far.”

Laffan said when he came into the role he knew that while soccer often dwarfs cricket in termsofpopularityintheVanuatu,cricketwas the highest-ranked sport in the country. That is based around the women’s program which is ranked number 30.

At the recent World Cup qualifying tournament, the Vanuatu side beat Zimbabwe which is ranked 12th in the world.

To even get to the qualifying tournament, they had to beat Papua New Guinea, which is ranked number 11 in the world and a team Laffandescribedasthe‘gatekeeper’ofwomen’s cricket in their region.

Laffan said the win was massive for the team and the country as a whole.

“To see us be able to take that forward and go somewhere we haven’t been before, is so pleasing from my point of view,” he said.

“But also from the support. The country has been able to jump on board and it’ll hopefully be able to ignite the passion into young men

and women to take up the game and see it as a really great pathway to get on the international stage.”

Laffan said they had a really young group that were happy to be there and take on these opportunities.. He said the group was just there to learn and get better and improve.

“I think it really shows the mentality of the group that you know, they’re not really going to get lost in that one win which is fantastic,” he said. “To put out their best foot forward to continue and while they got beaten quite convincingly two days later … There were so many pleasing signs against a world class side.

“We spoke about it in our build up and how important it was about creating history, we managed to do that.”

Vanuatu finished with just one win for the tournament but it’s put the side in a good place to move forward.

On the other side the men’s team came off a disappointing tournament in Malaysia, missing out on qualifying for the Challenge League, which is a step to trying to qualify for the 50-over World Cup.

The loss will have an impact on funding for thewholeCricketVanuatuprogram,including all staff and many programs that run.

Laffan said it was a huge shake up but was one that they didn’t see coming.

“To finish off where we did, “We made the super six stage.

“There were some pleasing results, we got into some positions that we could have gone through.

“There’ssomefantasticprogressionthorough the men’s side at the same the overhanging pieceofdisappointmentfronthelasttoughnot securing the funding and go through.”

Now with 12 months nearly under his belt, Laffan is keen to see where the journey takes them next.

Vanuatu’s women’s side with coach Chris Laffan (pictured right). (Pictures: Supplied)

New principal announced at Bacchus Marsh Grammar

Bacchus Marsh Grammar is pleased to announce the appointment of its fourth and new principal from 2025, Mrs Debra Ogston. This is an exciting appointment for the school and wider community as Mrs Ogston, having served the school in various positions over the past 23 years, provides current and future families continuity, confidence, a strong direction and seamless transition into her new role.

In a recent speech given to staff, Mrs Ogston said, “Change can often bring feelings of uncertainty and apprehension and continuity is what binds us together as a school community. Our values, our traditions and our shared commitment to excellence remains the same. As we, as a school, navigate the changes and transitions that inevitably come with a new principal, it is essential that we remain steadfast in our commitment to that which has got us to this place. This school has been built on a culture of significance, values and high expectations, particularly with academic results. This will remain the same. Continuity and confidence in what we as a school are delivering and our continued expectations will help us move forward in our pursuit of excellence.”

It is with great confidence that the Bacchus Marsh Grammar community can count on our new principal. Mrs Ogston’s ambition and success in her leading roles to this point have been entwined with her commitment to excellence in education, and her passion to create well-rounded individuals. She leads by example as she balances parenthood and has strong community ties while involved in local sport through both coaching and playing roles at Sunbury Basketball Association since 1997 and more recently Darley Football and Netball Club.

Mrs Ogston’s beliefs are that the “future of

oursocietyisbaseduponourabilitytochange and grow. The skills and knowledge required inthefuturemustenablepeopletotakechange in their stride. Students leaving secondary school must be problem-solvers, listeners and good communicators. Students need to keep upwiththeever-changingpaceintechnology, work effectively in group situations and be responsible citizens. In order for students to be prepared for life beyond the four walls of school, we must teach these skills.”

Current principal Mr Andrew Neal said, “I cannot be more delighted with this appointment. Mrs Debra Ogston has the

capacity and desire to continue the growth and development of the school in a way that is true to our values and is respectful to all members of our community.”

On behalf of the School Board, Cathy Jeffkins wishes to thank the entire school community for its respectful engagement and interest in the new principal selection process. The board is delighted to have made the appointment of Mrs Ogston to position of principal with effect from 1 January 2025.

The board also reiterates its grateful and heartfelt thanks to current principal, Mr Andrew Neal, for his enormous contribution

to our school over the past 26 years, and looks forward to Mr Neal undertaking the new role of the School’s Chief Executive Officer from 1 January 2025.

Bacchus Marsh Grammar is a vibrant independent school, boasting a rich depth of programs that foster confidence, self-awareness, resilience, and gives students the ability to contribute to their personal growth. It has three campuses Maddingley P-12 Campus, Woodlea P-10 Campus (expanding to Year 12 by 2026) and Staughton Vale Rural Campus. For more email school@ bmg.vic.edu.au or contact 5366 4800.

Bacchus Marsh Grammar

New principal Debra Ogston.

Students are ’partners in learning’ at Sunbury College

Sunbury College is a co-educational secondary college located in the heart of Sunbury’s township.

The College is a thriving institution and is determined to foster deep connections with our growing local community.

At Sunbury, we are committed to ‘knowing your child’ both academically and personally. By knowingyourchild,weaimtocreateopportunities for them to excel in their strengths and accelerate their progress.

By viewing our students as partners in learning, we ensure that their emotional, social, and physical wellbeing is nurtured, and their learning pathways are maximised.

Our Year 7 learning program (also known as LP7) is designed to support the gradual transition of students into secondary school. The program replicates key elements of primary school such as a significant teacher that teaches the class between one to three periods per day, a home room, and dedicated play area, while developing students’ independence and responsibility.

The program is supported by two year level co-ordinators and a transition co-ordinator who together ensure that Year 7 students have a supported and enjoyable entry to secondary schooling.

Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) is a growing focus of our school. We have placed experienced staff members in both STEM and numeracy leadership positions as part of our strategic plan to drive an increase in STEM learning opportunities.

Wehaveexpandedtheopportunitiesforstudents toparticipateinclubsandactivitieslinkedtoSTEM to create, then grow a curiosity for STEM learning.

This year we are further developing the capacity for teachers to implement design thinking pedagogy, introducing several new STEM curriculum units into our Year 7 and 8 subjects, so students have a greater opportunity to experience and be challenged in STEM-based learning.

Year 10 students undertaking a hands-on learning activity in science. (Supplied)

Exploring digital technologies at Sacred Heart College

Students in the Junior Years at Sacred Heart College study a range of subjects, with the aim of developing skills, interest, and knowledge across many subject areas.

One of the most popular of these is Digital Technologies. This year, the college’s talented Year 7 and 8 Robotics students embarked on an exciting journey of engineering and innovation. Students built and programmed their Lego Mindstorm robots to move in the form of shapes and several students successfully used the sensors, which included distance recognition, to avoid any obstacles.

Through this hands-on experience they gained invaluable skills in problem-solving, teamwork and critical thinking.

In Year 9 Accelerated Computing students learned how to build a home network for a client.Thisincludedtheworkingsofhardware, software and how computers are connected to the internet. In the VR space students experiencedanewvirtualrealityenvironment known as Avantis World, using a joystick controller to navigate streets, buildings and homes that were virtually created to see how computers and networks are connected.

Year 9 Interactive Gaming and Coding students used GameMaker to create simple games such as space shooter, space rocks and extend a platformer game. They learned about algorithm and programming theory, exploring concepts such as flowcharts and pseudocode as part of program design.

The essentials of good game design were also studied before being challenged to use software to design and then play their own 3D Virtual Reality game.

These subjects, offered in the Junior School, provide a hands-on introduction to digital

technologies which can be further developed with studies in the Senior School years. This exposure to real-world applications of robotics, problem-solving, and coding sets a strong foundation for further exploration in technology related fields.

To learn more about the educational offerings of Sacred Heart College Kyneton, consider booking your place at one of the regular college tours - bookings can be made via the college website: www.shckyneton.catholic.edu.au

Don’t miss our next College Tours: Tuesday 11 June and Wednesday 17 July, bookings essential. Visit the College website for tour bookings or contact the Registrar for enrolment information.

Left: Year 8 students collaborate to learn about engineering and technology. Right: Robotics students hard at work. (Pictures: Supplied)

Riddells Creek embraces individuality and diversity

Fosteringasenseofbelongingandconnection, reflecting the school’s values of Caring, Respect, Integrity and Safety is a cornerstone of Riddells Creek’s ethos.

Community engagement is fundamental at Riddells Creek, with strong connections nurtured within our tight-knit community, aligning seamlessly with our commitment to inclusivity and diversity.

We prioritise academic excellence in an innovative and inclusive manner, embracing individuality and honouring diversity within our school community. Teaching Auslan and engaging with the deaf community are integral aspects of our educational approach. Our Respectful Relationships program explicitly teaches the skills needed to cultivate

healthy connections, navigate challenges, and develop problem-solving abilities, fostering resilience and confidence. Our younger students are introduced to ‘Kimochis’ where they learn to identify and express their feelings.

Our expansive campus provides ample opportunities for students to participate in diverse activities, utilising both indoor and outdoor spaces for learning and recreation.

The Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Program, offered to Grade 3 and 4 students, provides a dynamic outdoor learning environment that encourages positive experiences and imparts valuable life skills such as environmental awareness and healthy eating habits.

Drawing upon the latest research, we implement evidence-based approaches, such as structured synthetic phonics, to ensure our students receive a strong foundation in reading and writing. Our hands-on approach to mathematics education fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

We offer a wide array of sporting opportunities, including participation in school, district, and regional events, complemented by a comprehensive physical education program promoting healthy lifestyles. Specialised subjects such as STEM, visual, and performing arts cater to diverse learning needs and talents. Our biennial whole-school productions provide students with a platform to showcase their talents and

shine in front of a large audience.

Leadership opportunities for Grade 6 students are highly sought-after, empowering them to effect positive change within the school community. Whether leading assemblies, conducting tours, or representing the school at events, our student leaders demonstrate exemplary conduct and dedication.

Community engagement lies at the heart of our philosophy and by nurturing our students and creating a positive learning environment, we strive to cater for each and everyindividual.

For more information on enrolment or school tours, please contact us at riddells.

Dedicated to delivering exceptional educational outcomes to every student

Striving for success at Salesian College Sunbury

At Salesian College Sunbury, we boast a long andproudhistoryofprovidingahigh-quality educationandlearningenvironmentsforour students.

Motivated by our Salesian charism, we live by and promote our school values of Community, Learning, Excellence, and Faith, both in the classroom and in everyday life.

Ourcollegemotto,‘Strivinginlife’,reflects our belief that, given the opportunity and right environment, every student can strive for success. Our students are encouraged to have a voice in all aspects of their learning, and our broad range of subjects allows them to be challenged and to open their minds to the potential in their future.

At the start of 2024 we launched our exciting new vertical curriculum structure – My Salesian Passport – which celebrates innovation in teaching and learning. ‘My Salesian Passport’ fosters mentorship, collaboration, holistic growth, and personalised learning which enhances our students’ academic and social development. Feedbackfromparentshasbeenverypositive.

“It is extremely refreshing to see my child enjoying more of what they love during the school day. I’m a huge believer in fostering strengths and doing more of what you are good at, and I think My Salesian Passport caters for this perfectly,” said one parent.

We are lucky to be based on beautiful and unique college grounds that feature a working farm, an indoor sports stadium, a lake, a heritage mansion, and premium facilities. Identifying the ever-changing landscape of modern technology, equipment, resources, and how it relates to curriculum.

Salesian College was proud to host the grand opening of its fully refurbished STEAM centre and makers space earlier in

and students

the year. Our commitment to cutting-edge infrastructureandfacilitiesisreflectiveofour overarching goal to provide an environment that instils a love of learning in our young people and inspires them to strive in life.

Our students are empowered to take an active part in their school journey through student voice and leadership opportunities, and co-curricular clubs and activities. Why not hear from the students

themselves? Visit our website to book a space on one of our onsite, student-led tours where you will discover our unique campus and see what sets us apart.

Staff

exchange ideas in one of the many learning spaces at Salesian College Sunbury. (Supplied)

Education redefined at Global Village Learning

Global Village Learning (GVL), formerly known as Gisborne Montessori School, is redefining education in the Macedon Ranges by empowering learners to build communities that positively impact the world.

At GVL, we believe the young people have a far greater capacity than we give them credit for.

Our curriculum is crafted around this belief and supported by our Edventurous Design Principles, ensuring that learning is personalised, empowered, action-based, connected, organic, and adventurous.

These principles forge a Montessoriinspired, learner-empowered, and future-focused educational pathway. Everyone in our learning community crafts a truly personalised learning journey.

As we expand our new Gisborne Campus to include years 11 and 12 (pending approval) in 2025, GVL will provide enhanced opportunities for students to apply their learning in real-world scenarios, preparing them for future challenges and opportunities. Join us at Global Village Learning, where we do more than educate—we inspire and empower students to make a meaningful impact in the world. Enrol now and be part of a community committed to nurturing supportive, inclusive growth for every learner.

We are currently accepting enquiries for students from prep to year 12 for 2025— organise a tour today and explore the unique learning environment at Global Village Learning. Start your GVL Journey @ gvl.vic. edu.au

Learners exploring Global Learning Village’s vintage tractor. Inset: Jett leading the way on Global Learning Village’s space Edventure. (Pictures: Supplied)

Playing messy

Toddlers throughout Sunbury were busy last week being entertained with messy activities and sensory play at Sunbury Neighborhood House.

The planned and facilitated program is designed to engage parents and caregivers with their toddlers, and is held at the neighborhoodhouseonTuesday,Wednesday andThursday.

Each session includes a theme, along with severalactivitiesaroundtheroomtoprovide arangeofmessyandsensoryfun.

The enclosed outdoor play space is set up with wonderful imaginative play opportunities, and in suitable weather conditions, program facilitators will bring theplayspaceoutside.

Weekly activities may include paint, play dough, water, soil, sand, rice, glitter and more. Inquiries: 9740 6978 enquiries@ sunburyhouse.com.au

100%

Helps

Fifteen-month-old Bailey, and below, Stella, 2, learning how to play messy.

Sunbury toddler Brodie, and left, Ziggy, 3.

Henley, 2, enjoying the sensory play.

Winter Rose, 2. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 405907

Danielle Smith and her daughter Charli, 2, enjoying the messy play classes.

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

Repair Cafe Sunbury

Bring an item that needs repair and volunteer repairers will do their best to fix it with you. Or just drop in for a cuppa. Saturday, May 18, 10am-12.30pm. All welcome. Sunbury Neighbourhood House, 531 Elizabeth Drive, Sunbury.

■ www.sunburyhouse.com.au or 9740 6978

Neighbourhood Garden

Become part of Sunbury’s Neighbourhood Garden and grow edible and useful plants in a social group at Sunbury Neighbourhood House, 531 Elizabeth Drive, Sunbury. All skill sets are welcome at the next working bee Saturday, May 18, 10am-12.30pm.

■ www.sunburyhouse.com.au or 9740 6978.

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

VIEW Club

Sunbury-Macedon Ranges VIEW Club is a friendly women’s organisation and a valued part of The Smith Family. It meets on the third Friday of each month at 11am at Club Sunbury, Riddell Road, Sunbury. New members warmly welcome

■ Lee-anne, 0403 047 909

Sunbury Art Society

The Sunbury Art Society meets every Friday and Saturday from 10am- 3pm at the Boilerhouse, Jacksons Hill, to paint or draw over a cuppa with other like minded people. New members welcome.

■ Ken, 0407 062 568 or Yvonne, 0429 994 828

Yoga

Yoga classes at Sunbury Neighbourhood House focus on supporting participants to slow down and move well. Special attention is given to mindful awareness of movement that builds strength in a healthy and safe way, Monday mornings, Thursday evenings and Friday mornings

■ www.sunburyhouse.com.au or 9740 6978

Neighbourhood Garden

Become part of Sunbury’s Neighbourhood Garden and grow edible and useful plants in a social group at Sunbury Neighbourhood House, 531 Elizabeth Drive Sunbury. All skill sets are welcome at working bees on the third Saturday of each month, 10am-12.30pm, February-November.

■ www.sunburyhouse.com.au or 9740 6978

Art Group

The Woodend Art Group holds classes and workshops in the studios in the Woodend railway station complex. They also have a social Tuesday where members and interested people can come along in the morning, have a coffee and paint together in a social environment.

■ Colin Robinson, 0407 426 252 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. 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

Scottish Country Dancing

The Macedon Ranges Scottish Country Dancing Group meets every Thursday afternoon 1-3pm at Buffalo Stadium, Woodend. The dancing involves social country dancing, and no special clothes needed, just soft flat shoes.

■ Meg, 5427 1100, or Linda, 0408 476 317

Community. Connect. Create. If you are needing support or looking for a social group to join, you can visit Community. Connect. Create, which is an online resource listing support and community groups in the Macedon Ranges. if you would like your group listed or would like to work to help this project grow please email: fiona@communityconnectcreate. com.au

■ Communityconnectcreate.com.au

Amateur Radio Club

The Macedon Ranges Amateur Radio Club meets on the third Saturday of the month at the Woodend RSL Hall, 32 Anslow Street, Woodend at 10am. If you are interested in amateur radio or already have a call sign, this could be for you.

■ http://www.mrarc.org.au

Take off weight naturally

Struggling to lose weight? Struggling to get motivated? Want to try and do it in a friendly and less stressful atmosphere? Come and join TOWN (Take Off Weight Naturally) every Thursday at 9am at the Sunbury Neighbourhood House, 531 Elizabeth Drive, Sunbury.

■ Rhonda, 0409 740 924

Kyneton Badminton Club

Kyneton Badminton Club is a welcoming,

fun and social group that plays on Mondays, at 7pm at the Kyneton Toyota Sports and Aquatic Centre, Victoria Street. All skill levels welcome.

■ kynetonbc@gmail.com

Sunbury Macedon Ranges Lodge Meets monthly on the second Wednesday of the month at 7pm, 73 Main Street, Romsey. New members welcome.

■ Wayne, 0404 034 737, or Ian, 0438 240 402

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

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

Rotary club

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

■ sunburyrotary@gmail.com

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

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Star Wars characters visiting sick children, including six-year-old Tiana, at Sunshine Hospital to help brighten their day. (Damjan Janevski) 405369_01

To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must

1 Underground railway (6)

4 Water-surrounded land (6) 10 Chickens, pigeons etc. (5)

11 Social exclusion (9)

12 Provider of information (9)

13 Rainforest vine (5)

14 Of Troy (6)

15 Over (4)

19 Currency unit (4)

20 Antelope with lyre-shaped horns (6)

24 Happen (5) 25 Encouraging (9)

27 Male name (9)

28 Proclaimer (5)

29 Proof-corrector (6)

30 Fruit (6)

1 Temperance (8) 2 Shoeless (8) 3 German-speaking country (7) 5 Mollusc (7) 6 Shoe brand (6) 7 Humiliate (6)

8 Scottish island (4) 9 Law (7)

16 Bed-bound person (7) 17 Italian church (8) 18 Large marsupial (8) 19 Procession (7) 21 North African country (7) 22 Deadbeat (6)

23 Outline (6)

26 Sham (4)

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 nouns ending in “s”.

Today’s Aim:

20 words: Good 30 words: Very good 40 words: Excellent

2 Riley Keough (pictured) plays the title character in which 2023 series based on a book by Taylor Jenkins Reid? 3 And which music icon is she the granddaughter of? 4 The quetzal is the official currency of which country? 5 In which Australian state is Gulf St Vincent?

True

Futuristic Staria is a head-turner

By Alistair Kennedy, Marque Motoring

The Hyundai Staria people mover and Staria Load commercial van arrived here in mid-2021 toreplacethepreviousiMaxandiLoadvehicles.

Both come with a strikingly futuristic look with a steeply sloping front with a wide body-colouredradiatorgrilleflankedbylow-set LED headlights and a full-width horizontal LED strip above comprising a centre lamp and daytime running lights.

Comparisons have been drawn to the now-defunct Space Shuttle.

Both Staria models are engineered from the grounduponadedicatedplatformsharedwith the Santa Fe.

We’ll focus on the people mover here.

Styling

While it may polarise opinions, the Staria certainly has the most imaginative design we’ve ever seen in either a people mover or commercial van. During our week behind the wheeloftheStariapeoplemoveritdrewalmost exclusively positive comments.

The same body colour is used for all the Staria’s frontal parts. It has a low belt line and large side windows. The rear has vertical tail lights and a wide rear window. It’s not all about style – the rear bumper is low to help make it easier to load and unload.

Three equipment levels are available, each withthechoiceof3.5-litreV6petrolor2.2-litre diesel power: Staria, Elite and Highlander – starting at $49,900, plus on road costs, for the Staria petrol and rising to $67,000 for the Highlander 2.2-litre diesel.

The three petrol variants are front-wheel drive, the diesels are driven by all four wheels.

Interior

As with the previous iMax, the Staria is an eight-seaterThelowerbelt-linesandpanoramic side windows provide excellent all-round visibility and create a feeling of openness in the large cabin. The Highlander lets in even more light via a front and rear sunroof.

Ifthat’stoomuchlight,secondandthirdrow sunshades can be used to reduce glare and heat of the sun. Sliding second-row seats have long runners for easy access and a step and ‘walk-in’ device sliding function for the second row creates extra foot clearance for easy third row access.

Two USB-A charging ports for each rear row, along with 10 cup/bottle holders and second-row seatback storage pockets make for happy families on the road.

With all seats occupied, there is 831 litres of cargo space in the rear, while this can be expanded to a massive 1303 litres with the second and third row folded. Access is via power side sliding doors or ‘smart’ power tailgate, the latter that closes automatically when the smart key is no longer detected.

Engines/transmissions

The all-wheel drive 2.2-litre CRDI diesel generates 130 kW of power and 430 Nm of torque. Fuel consumption is listed at 8.2 litres per 100 kilometres.

The 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine gets 200 kW and 330 Nm.

On test was the range topping Staria Highlander 2.2-litre petrol diesel.

Infotainment

Entry level Staria comes with an 8-inch touchscreen display, Elite and Highlander a 10.25-inch touchscreen. Likewise, only the two higher-spec models get satellite navigation with live traffic updates digital radio.

The 10.25-inch touchscreen multimedia unit is integrated into the top of the dash and provides a clear view of navigation, audio and other info, including wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto connectivity.

All models have a 10.25-inch colour LCD screen in front of the driver but partially blocked by the steering wheel when we were driving. It displays a digital speedo, trip

RATINGS

Looks: 9/10

Performance: 7/10

Safety: 8/10

Thirst: 5/10

Practicality: 8/10

Comfort: 7/10

Tech: 9/10

Value: 6/10

information, tachometer and visual warnings and system status updates from Hyundai SmartSense and other safety systems.

Engines/transmissions

Staria is offered with the choice of petrol and turbo-diesel engines, mated with an eight-speed automatic transmission, and front or all-wheel drive.

The 3.5-litre V6 produces 200 kW and 331 Nm and drives the front wheels, while the 2.2-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel dishes up 130 kW and 430 Nm through an all-wheel drive system.

Both engines are mated with an eight-speed torque convertor automatic transmission and can tow up to 2500kg with a braked trailer.

Safety

In addition to seven airbags – front, front-side, front-centre plus curtain bags on the A- and B-pillars – standard active safety across the range features include autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian/cyclist detection and junction assist, blind-spot assist, lane-keep assist and lane following assist.

There’s also multi-collision braking, driver inattention monitor, safe exit warning, rear cross-traffic assist and surround view monitor. The Elite adds safe exit assist and 3-D view surround-view camera.

The range-topping Highlander incorporates a blind spot view monitor, which projects a live feed of what’s in the blind spot to the instrument cluster.

There are IsoFix child seat anchors on the outboard second-row seats, plus top-tether anchors. There are no anchors in the third row.

Driving

With such a difference in load characteristics over eight seats, fuel consumption could be expected to have ranged wildly around the maker’s claim of 8.2 litres per 100km on the combined urban/highway cycle. Our test vehicle used a combined 9.8 L/100 km.

There’s a choice of four drive modes: Normal, Eco, Sport and Smart – offers a range of powertrain responses to suit driving conditions. Annoyingly they are selected by tapping a number of times on a lower screen thus diverting attention from the road.

Eco and Sport are at either end of the performance spectrum, with Normal the balance between the two.

Smart mode works with a driver profile system to tailor Staria’s performance to their preferences. That’s clever.

Despite its size Satria doesn’t feel it and it’s smooth and comfortable drive experience with ride and handling that’s up to class-leading standards.

Summary

All-new Staria is a head-turning eight-seater people mover alternative to the perennial class-leading Kia Carnival. It comes with all the safety, comfort and convenience technology customers expect in a modern passenger vehicle.

All models come with a five-year unlimited kilometre warranty, complimentary roadside assist for 12 months, 1500km complimentary first service, a dedicated customer care centre and an exclusive owner website.

Owners servicing with Hyundai also receive a 10-year satellite navigation update plan, plus roadside support for up to 10 years or more.

All-new Staria is a head-turning eight-seater people mover alternative to the perennial class-leading Kia Carnival. (Pictures: Supplied)

There was plenty of sporting action on the weekend and StarWeeklyphotographer Ljubica Vrankovic was out and about shooting some of the great grabs, kicks and handballs.

Action from around the grounds

1/ Kain Hall. 406469_19 2/ Payton-Ani Ozols.

Kaitlyn Portelli. 406467_16

Christian Scaffidi. 406464_04

Nathan Parkes and Sam Gilmore. 406464_11 6/ Charlie Goodwin. 406467_08 7/ Harry Butterworth and Sam Green. 06463_10 8/ Tye Hall. 406469_18 9/ Erin Robinson. 406471_18 10/ Bundoora against Heidelberg. 406463_14

Cats close the gap on the top teams

Macedon has closed the gap on the top sides but needs to take that next step and knock them off in the Riddell District Football League.

TheCatssit1-3attheinterleaguebyehaving played three of the top four sides from last year and an undefeated Riddell.

Cats coach Al Meldrum can see a lot of positives out of the season so far despite the results.

“We would have loved to have pinched another win,” he said. “We’ve played the top four from last year and the first four games have not been easy.

“We’ve only won one of them but we’ve playedataprettygoodlevelofcompetitiveness andfarimprovedfromwherewewerelastyear

“We’re able to stay in games for longer than last year. We’re doing a lot of things right, the wins will add an extra level.”

Meldrumsaidtheytraditionallyhaveahard start to the season, with match ups against Riddell and Diggers Rest in round one and on Anzac Day every year.

One of the most pleasing things for the Cats is the number of young players still getting opportunities in the top side.

Against Wallan, they had eight players in the team who could still play under-19s and reduced the margin from last year.

“It’s the most enjoyable part of coaching,” Meldrum said. “There is so much talent.

“I’m contracted for a number of years and some of our senior players are too, who want to stay to help out.

“We’re four rounds in and it’s four more games they have played together. Every game they get more and more belief.

“Thatisreallyexcitingfortheclub,hopefully we can get some wins on the board.”

The Cats had a week off on the weekend due to interleague.

Meldrum, who was assistant coach for the RDFL’s interleague side, said they would get a few players back this week

The biggest one of those is Jason Cooke, who will give them more strength in front of the ball.

Having played a lot of the top teams, the Cats now face teams that are near them on the ladder and below.

It starts with Kyneton at Kyneton this Saturday.

“We never look too far ahead,” Meldrum said. “They have won the games that they were expected to win.

“It’ll be a really resting game and we’re not looking to far beyond that.”

Tara Murray

Roos’ ‘blue collar win’

By Tara Murray

The Sunbury Kangaroos are slowly building into the Essendon District Football League division 2 season.

The Kangaroos lost in round one, but have managed to win their next three matches to be 3.1

They had a bye on the weekend.

Coach Shanon Carroll said they were happy with how things had gone so far.

‘It’s different from last year [when they were 0-5],” he said. “On the weekend against Coburg Districts it was one of our best wins.

“We were undermanned and it was a real blue collar win. The game could have gone either way and we came away with.”

Carroll said that performance showed the growth in the group and the ability to fight through adversity.

He said they were starting to show more maturity on the field and it was the reason why they got the win.

“The last part of the final quarter we played a brand of footy we had been training for,” he said. “We’d not had the courage to use it in a game before and they guys nailed it and it was everything that we have been working on.”

Carroll said their only loss back in round one against Taylors Lakes, a side that Carroll sees as one of the premiership favourites, was disappointing knowing that they had their chances early in the game.

Carroll said the bye had come at a perfect time for the side and they would get a few players back after the break.

Rocco Tripodi is one who will return while Jake Olivieri has had a strong period in the reserves after missing a big chunk of pre-season.

Lachlan Treweek also played in the reserves and is among others pushing to play seniors. One player that won’t be back in the near future is John Corso.

The vice-captain hasn’t played since round two when two chunks of his knee were taken out.

“He’s out indefinite,” Carroll said. “It was one of those ugly ones. I told him family first, work second and footy is a distant third. We want him to get his health right.”

Carrollwasplanningtoheaddowntowatch Burnside Heights and Westmeadows on the bye weekend.

Both teams were undefeated entering the match.

The Kangaroos face them and Taylors Lakes in three of their next four matches.

“We still have work to do,” Carroll said. “We’re trying to get that balance right with our squad.

“It’s good to see we’re adapting and the sides that can do the quickest will go deepest this year.”

Sports shorts

Athletics

Sunbury’s Riley Coughlan has been named in the Australian under-18 team for the Oceania Athletics Championships. Coughlan will compete in the 5 kilometre racewalk. The championship will run from June 1-8.

Bendigo FL

Gisborne captain Jack Reaper will captain the Bendigo Football League interleague side for its clash with the Victorian Amateur Football Association in July. Meanwhile Sandhurst’s Ash Connick has been named the interleague coach. The league will face the VAFA on July 6 at Elsternwick Park, Brighton.

Ballarat NL

The Sunbury Lions came away with a draw in their biggest test yet in the Ballarat Netball League. Facing the reigning premiers, North Ballarat, the Lions were able to come away with a 61-61 draw despite missing several key players. Lani Fauonuku, who played some time in defence, shot 34 goals for the Lions. After five rounds the Lions sit in second spot. This Saturday they face an undefeated Darley.

Bendigo FL

Gisborne continued its good form with a win against Golden Square in the Bendigo Football League. Gisborne jumped out of the blocks in the battle of the Bulldogs and led by 38 points at quarter time. They managed to maintain that led throughout, slowly building on the way to a 15.14 (104)-8.8 (56) win. Pat McKenna kicked five goals, while Brad Bernacki kicked four goals. Liam Spear was named their best. The Bulldogs sit third after five rounds.

EDFL

The Sunbury Kangaroos caused an upset in the Essendon District Football League division 2 women’s competition. Facing Coburg Districts, the Kangaroos came away with an 8.6 (54)-5.4 (34) win. Meanwhile, East Sunbury is the only team without a win, losing to Glenroy, 15.13 (103)-4.2 (26). Thunder coach Lisa Borg played her 200th game in the loss.

Bradley Cooke. (Ljubica Vrankovic)

In matches on Saturday, East Sunbury remains without a win in division 2.

Both sides entered the match without a win. It was Glenroy that started the better of the two teams with Glenroy having taken control of the second in the second quarter.

Glenroy continued on in the second half, winning 24.12 (156)-5.4 (34).

In division 1, Rupertswood lost to Craigieburn, 23.12 (150)-12.10 (82).

Mitchell Kook, (Ljubica Vrankovic) 359355_27

West takes on CEO role at Netball Australia

Sunbury Lions coach Stacey West officially has the biggest role in Australian netball, appointed Netball Australia’s new chief executive.

West, who has been the interim chief executive since mid-December, was last week appointed to the role full time.

WestbecameinterimCEOinmid-December after four years as the Netball Australia performance executive general manager where she was responsible for all aspects of the sport’s talent pathway program and ensuring the Australian Diamonds remained the world’s number-one ranked netball team.

BeforejoiningNetballAustralia13yearsago, West gained extensive experience as a player, coach and selector within high performance netball programs both domestically and internationally, entering Netball Australia’s pathway as an athlete herself at a young age and continuing her involvement as an elite coach, selector, and administrator.

Ms West said she was deeply honoured to lead Netball Australia and excited about delivering the sport’s strategic objectives.

“Netball is a wonderful community and

an enormous passion of mine. I am deeply committed to working closely with everyone to ensure the sport grows strongly,’’ Ms West said.

“The focus of Netball Australia is growing participation beyond our current 1.2 million participants, continuing to enhance our competitions, work closely with governments, and growing our commercial partnerships to guarantee the financial sustainability of the game into the future.”

“Netballhasdeeprootsineverycommunity aroundthenationandwehaveplayedacritical role supporting and inspiring generations of women and girls. Netball will continue to lead, and we have a renewed focus supporting First Nations and inclusiveness.’’

“This is an exciting time for netball as we move towards celebrating our centenary in three years, a highlight which will be the hosting of the 2027 Netball World Cup.”

Netball Australia chair Wendy Archer said West has proven her strong leadership skills as interim chief executive and has a clear and exciting vision for the future growth of netball in Australia.

“Stacey is from our sport, and she knows our sport,” she said. “Stacey’s extensive netball experience and passion for the game, combined with a strong strategic focus and ability to build and maintain strong relationships,makeshertheidealappointment to this position.’’

“Stacey leads a united team, from the grassroots to the elite levels, committed to the continued success of netball in Australia. We have had a record-breaking start to the Suncorp Super Netball season with soaring broadcast viewership and attendance at games and strong support from our valued commercial partners.

“The board looks forward to working closely with Stacey, the entire team at Netball Australia, our member organisations, clubs and the Australian Netball Players’ Association as we continue the growth of the game.’’

West is currently the Sunbury Lions B-grade and C-grade coach in the Ballarat Netball League.

Lions punish Roosters

By Tara Murray

The Sunbury Lions remain undefeated after an impressive win against North Ballarat on Saturday in the Ballarat Football League.

The Lions hosted the Roosters in their biggest challenge of the season so far and they passed it with flying colours.

Coming off the bye, the Lions jumped out of the blocks and kept the Roosters goal less in the first quarter before extending the lead to 22 points at half time.

It was the third quarter that broke open the game with the Lions kicking nine goals to none to lead by 77 points at the break.

The Lions finished the game off well to record a, 17.9 (111)-3.12 (30) win.

Lions coach Matt White was thrilled with the performance.

“It was a very nice win and we’ve had a good start to the year,” he said. “We were able to put North away which was fantastic.

“The midfield battle was key. They are a good stoppage group and we wanted to stop

them and then beat them on the outside.

“We were able to do that and dictate what we wanted to.”

White said Josh Guthrie led the way in the middle with Jake Egan continuing his improvement this season and Brock Landt starting to have an impact having joined the club in the off season.

WhiletheyweremissingBenCameronwith Victorian Football League commitments, it was next man up for the Lions.

“For Tommy Werner to do what he did in the midfield,” White said. “He’s been stiff to miss out the first four games.

“He was impressive. We keep having headaches when it comes to selection, we have 35-36 players to choose from every week.

“We’re not looking for super stardom, we want that effort. The work the reserves boys are doing is scaring some of the senior boys.”

Mitch Mclean and Jake Sutton kicked five goals each for the Lions.

Fraser Ampulski, Mclean and Werner were named the Lions best.

Sunbury Jets fall short

A last quarter comeback by the Sunbury Jets fell short against the Hume City Broncos on Sunday in the Big V men’s state championship.

The two local rivals faced off on Sunday as they both looked to move further up the ladder.

It was the Broncos that started the betterofthesidesandledbyeightpoints at quarter time.

The momentum continued in the secondquarterwiththeBroncosleading by 18 points at half time.

The Jets started to get going in the third quarter but were only able to reduce the margin by two pointts.

With nothing to lose, the Jets threw everything at the Broncos in the last quarter, but fell short with the Broncos winning 97-92.

Joshua Yorke-Frazer top scored with 22 points for the Jets, while Benjamon Robertson had 21 points and Ray Mitchell had 20 points.

The Jets now sit in sixth place with a 4-3 record.

In the women’s state championship, the Jets are starting to get some wins on the board.

OnSundaytheygotaroadwinagainst the Pakenham Warriors, winning 80-62.

White, in his first season as coach, said the boys have done everything he’s asked for them so far.

“We preach about doing the big things right,” he said. “The tackling, the pressure and I can’t fault the boys for that.

“Other areas you will get wrong and that’s OK. You get the pressure right and know that results are likely to go our way.”

AfterfiveroundstheLionssitsecond,oneof two teams undefeated.

The tests continue this week, with the Lions facing reigning premiers Darley.

“I want to win every game,” White said. “I’m not trying to sound arrogant, I’m just a competitive so and so and want to win everything and we’ve done it for four rounds now.

“We knocked off North Ballarat which is a tickandnowfirmlyfocusedonNorthBallarat. They’re playing some good footy.

“We’ll do some digging and see how we can beat them.”

The Jets started well and led by 12 points at quarter time and were able to maintain a solid lead throughout the first half.

A 22-14 third quarter sealed the win for the Jets. They would eventually get the points, 80-62.

The Jets spread the load with six players scoring double figures, led by Chloe Hildebrand with 19 points.

The Jets are now up to fifth on the ladder with three wins.

Joshua Yorke-Frazer. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 403557_14

Stacey West. (AAP Image/Joel Carrett)

Jake Egan (Jacob Pattison)351772_05

RDNL falls short against an experienced team

The Riddell District Netball League’s next generation were on show against the Southern Netball League on Saturday.

Some of the region’s most talented netballers had their first chance to represent their league against an experienced Southern line up.

The experienced Southern side was able to run away with the game later to come away with a 64-40 win.

RDNLcoachKatieClarkesaidshewasproud of how her group handled themselves.

“Their coach was AJ [Ballantyne] who captains the Hawks championship side in the Victorian Netball League,” she said.

“TheyvirtuallyhadtheHawkschampionship sidealongwithIsabellaHodgsonandAnnabelle Gorman, who are from Boroondara Express along with some under-23 [VNL]players.

“We were able to keep with them for three quarters and we were only down by 10 goals at three quarter time.

“They bought Isabelle back on and she was brilliant in the final quarter.”

Clarke said it was daunting for some of their players who have never played against a team like that before.

She said this would only make the playing group improve when they come back to their competition.

“We know the calibre of team we were up against,” she said. “It was a good learning experience.

“We shot the first three goals of the game.

Shelby Holter’s dad was watching on the side lines and he said if you didn’t know the score you would have thought it was a lot closer.”

Clarke, who coaches Macedon, said it was exciting to see some girls who have been in the competition for a few years get their opportunities

Every player played at least 30 minutes to give everyone a real opportunity.

“DarceeEllardwassonervouswhenshetook

Tough debut for RDFL

By Tara Murray

History was made as the Riddell District Football League fielded a women’s interleague side for the first time on Saturday.

The league faced the Southern Football League on Saturday, marking a massive step forward for the women’s competition which is in its second season.

While it was a tough day on the scoreboard for the RDFL, which lost 8.11 (59)-1.1 (7) there were plenty of positive signs.

Coach Scott Caton said it was pretty special for everyone to be involved in the first game.

“It was a great experience for everyone,” he said. “Everybody was so proud to represent the league and shine on women’s footy in the RDFL.”

Caton, who also coaches Woodend-Hesket in the RDFL, said the group was a little bit overawed early in the game.

He said the Southern league was able to jump them on the scoreboard.

“We moved the magnets around a bit,” he

said. “We were able to show later on that we could match it with them and we’re not that far behind.”

Woodend-Hesket’s Kat Bau was awarded the best on ground medal for the RDFL.

Caton said the Southern league showed what can happen after having a strong women’s program for a number of years.

“I spoke with their coach and they said five years ago they were in the similar position and were beaten well.

“The skills have grown over the last five years. Hopefully in the next two to three years we can fast track women’s football.

“We trained at a high level for a number of weeks and there were drills they weren’t used to that they were impressed with and some will take back to their clubs.”

Caton said with a strong junior program in the league, that having a women’s interleague side would only help them.

The team had players from all seven teams in the RDFL competition.

the court,” Clarke said. “She’s been involved in the league for a number of years and deserved her opportunity.

“Tilly Shepherd did an awesome job after being unwell and Finn McKeagney-Stubbs was really good.

“Avana Hobson was awesome. We took her off at one point and she went back on and did everythingweaskedandwasgettingintercepts, tips and rebounds.”

Madison Brown was named player of the match for the RDNL for her performance in the midcourt.

The match was the first interleague match for the RDNL since 2019. For Clarke, who has played in several matches for the league, she loved the experience to coach the group.

“I wanted to give back to the league and the players,” she said. “I’m rapt the league gave me an opportunity to be involved.

“It was a really good day. I’m really proud of the girls. They did everything that I asked against a team that trains together regularly.”

Tara Murray

The Burras are building

Diggers Rest is building into the Riddell District Netball League season.

With a new coach and a new playing group, it’s taken some time for things to start to come together.

Heading into the interleague bye on theweekend,theBurrasweresitting1-3.

Coach Anica Wilson said it had been a good start to the season.

“We’re really starting to build and the culture off court has been really good,” she said.

“It always takes some time and every week we are getting closer and really building.

“There’s still a few games to go for the first half of the season and we hope to keep building.”

Wilson said they had a real mixture of new and more experienced girls at the clubandtherewasareallygoodbalance.

LeonaHristovska,whoisplayingwith the Western Warriors in the Victorian Netball League is one key player who has returned.

Wilson said getting back defender Maggie Payne, who missed the first couple of weeks, was also helpful to provide some extra leadership on court.

Meanwhile, in the senior men’s football it was heartbreak for the RDFL.

Having faced the Southern team last time it played interleague back in 2019, there was a sense of deja vu.

The Southern team kicked the first two goals of the game before the RDFL kicked the next six to lead by 26 points at quarter time. Unable to convert in front of goal, the Southern team wasn’t able to make the most of their opportunities to close the gap in the middle two quarters, with the margin 33 points at the final change.

Southern came from nowhere in the final quarter to level the scores come the final siren. Like in 2019, it meant the two teams were going to extra time.

Unlike last time when the RDFL won by three points, it was Southern that came away with the win, winning 15.8 (98)-14.15 (99).

Wallan’s Reuben Rode was named the RDFL’s best in the loss.

The under-18s also suffered a lose, losing to Southern, 6.9 (45)-5.9 (39).

Wilson said there had been some encouraging signs from the players who have joined the club.

“Lauren Creed has come across from Melton and has been working really hard on her accuracy,” she said.

“Olivia Marris is strong through the centre and is able to run out the match. Lexie [Lieschke] and Ash [Harrison] in defence and midcourt defence are really starting to step up and improve.”

The Burras continue to have strength throughout their other grades.

As well as having the week off for interleague the Burras have a bye this week. They then face Riddell and Kyneton, before the King’s Birthday competition wide bye.

Wilson said they were keen to get some more wins on the board as they go into the second half of the season.

“We want to turn some of those results around,” she said “It’s nice to have a couple of weeks off to reset.”

Tara Murray

RDNL interleague side (Supplied)

RDFL women’s interleague side. (Supplied)