Star Weekly - Sunbury Macedon Ranges - 25th June 2024

Women’s Health Matters

Star Weekly is shining a light on the healthcare issues facing women in the western and northern suburbs.

Over the next 12 months, our ‘Women’s Health Matters’ campaign will focus on the challenges facing women, including access to specialised and preventative healthcare, the availability of culturally appropriate healthcare and the adequacy of mental health services. We hope the campaign will help to raise awareness of critical healthcare issues for women and advocate for underserved communities in the west and north, particularly those in fringe suburbs and from minority communities.

We want to empower women in the north-west to address their healthcare needs.

Included in the campaign will be stories of resilience highlighting personal accounts of women who have overcome health challenges, advocacy initiatives, community engagement and collaborations with healthcare organisations.

We also want to hear from you about your individual healthcare experiences. If you have a story you would like to share, please get in touch via westeditorial@starweekly.com.au

Screening breakthrough

By Hannah Hammoud

A ground-breaking national campaign promoting the HPV self-collection option for cervical screening is helping bring empowerment and choice to women’s health acrossAustralia.

This initiative aims to address health equity by reaching under-screened populations, particularly Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women, culturally and linguistically diverse communities (CALD), and patients withdisabilities.

The National Cervical Screening Program

encourages women and people with a cervix aged 25 to 74 years of age to have a cervical screening test every five years through their healthcare provider, in a bid to reduce illness anddeathfromcervicalcancer.

The Cancer Council details that self-collectioniswhenawomanorpersonwith a cervix takes their own sample for cervical screening. A health care professional provides a cotton swab as well as instructions on how to collect the sample. A private place is also offeredtocollectthesample.

The Department of Health and Aged Care reports that about 800 women are diagnosed

with cervical cancer in Australia each year, and about 70 per cent of these cases occur in women who have never screened or were not up-to-datewiththeirscreening.

GenWest sexual and reproductive health team leader Sarah Lorrimar said the initiative willhelptobridgethegapincervicalscreening participationamongdiversepopulations.

“It’s going to make a huge difference to how many people are accessing a cervical screen,” she said. “Cervical screens can be uncomfortable for anyone. For most people, going and getting a cervical screen isn’t the mostpleasantexperiencebutthenthere’sother

people where the process actually makes them feel unsafe and has emotional and physical effects on them too. There are people that have had medical trauma and sexual trauma that the process of getting a cervical screen can be extremely daunting for them and being able to self-collect means that they’ve got a greater senseofsafety,comfort,andcontrol.”

Ms Lorrimar said for women who have undergone female genital cutting, the traditional cervical screening process can be particularlydaunting.

■ Continued: Page 5.

Highly trained professionals are taking care of women’s health in the west every day. (Picture courtesy: Royal Women’s Hospital)

Mixed picture on region’s crime

By Oscar Parry

Criminal offences recorded have increased by 6.9 per cent in Hume and decreased by 4 per cent in the Macedon Ranges in the year to March, new data reveals.

Crime Statistics Agency data, released on June 20, reveals there were 19,215 total offences recorded in Hume in the 12 months to March – an increase of 1246 incidents from the 12 months prior.

Police recorded 2453 offences in Sunbury, an increase of 149 from the previous year.

Apolicespokespersonsaidthatdespitethese

increases, crime in Hume has dropped since pre-pandemic levels.

“Overall, crime in Hume has dropped by 10 per cent since pre-pandemic [and] crime in Sunburyisatitsthirdlowestlevelsinadecade,” the spokesperson said.

Steal from motor vehicle offences rose in Hume by 379 cases to 2159 cases.

The spokesperson said police have noticed an increase in thieves targeting vehicles –specifically ones that are unlocked.

“In fact, offenders roam up and down streets until they find a car that is unlocked and either steal the car or valuables inside,“ the

police spokesperson said. “That’s why it is so important to always lock your vehicle, even if it’s in a secure driveway, because if there is less opportunity for theft it is less likely to occur.”

BreachesoffamilyviolenceordersinHume’s roseby142casesto1882cases,makingitoneof themostcommonoffencesinthemunicipality.

“Our message to those experiencing family violence is clear – when you are ready to come forward, we will be here to listen and support you,” the police spokesperson said.

In the Macedon Ranges, there were 2085 offences recorded, down from 2172 in the previous year. Of these offences, 839 occurred

in houses, and 235 occurred on streets, lanes, and footpaths.

Acting Superintendent Dan Davidson said many of these were opportunistic crimes.

“Pleasingly, levels of crime in Macedon Ranges are at their second lowest levels in almost a decade. While residential burglaries have also decreased, police are continuing to patrol the community to deter opportunistic thieves from breaking into cars and homes,”

Acting Superintendent Davidson said.

Gisborne was the suburb with the most offences recorded, with 449 total offences, an increase from 392 the previous year.

Water grant to help school

A Sunbury primary school has received a grant to improve water sustainability and promote student connection with the environment.

Greater Western Water (GWW) provided Kismet Park Primary School with a $20,000 grant as part of its Thriving Communities grants and sponsorships program.

The funding will be used by the school to build a new rainwater tank, an irrigation pump, and new benches for its Indigenous garden.

Kismet Park Primary School principal Kathy Cvitkovic said these projects will improve students’ health and promote water saving.

Catch up with community in winter

A neighbourhood house in Sunbury is hosting a new weekly program that provides social connection and material relief to the community.

Goonawarra Neighbourhood House is collaborating with Give Until it Hurts (GUIH) and the Multicultural Resources Hub to run a weekly community gathering program named ‘Community Winter Catch Up’.

The program will provide the community with soup, clothing, blankets, and a place to meet and converse with others.

Goonawarra Neighbourhood House manager Isabella Rosinsky said that the program is not just about material relief, but

helping to reduce social isolation and build community.

“Financial pressures can lead to a range of burdens that impact our mental health as well as our physical health. If we can help alleviatethoseburdensinanyway,wewill,”Ms Rosinsky said.

MsRosinskysaidthatwinterisaparticularly challenging time for people living in poverty, especially those without shelter or adequate heating.

“The number of those needing support is ever increasing and is a direct result of the rising cost of living,” she said.

“Each week we receive new requests for food

reliefandsupport,sometimesfromtwoincome families who still can’t make ends meet.”

The Community Winter Catch Up will run from5.30pm–7pmeveryFridayuntilAugustat 8 Gullane Drive, Sunbury.

The program can be supported through volunteering or providing a food or financial donation.

Food donations can be dropped off at the neighbourhood house between 5.30pm–6.30pm each Friday.

Details: https://www.goonawarranh.com. au/

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“School gardening … is widely reported to improve health and wellbeing outcomes for students,” Ms Cvitkovic said. “This project … gives students an opportunity to learn about water sustainability and efficiency at school. It goes without saying that water is inextricably linked to the sustainable development of any school site and of a school community.”

Water minister Harriet Shing said, “We are excited to see these events and projects come to life over the next year and how these water saving techniques and community projects will benefit the wider community”.

GWW’s grants and sponsorships program is divided into two categories – local community sponsorships that provide up to $5000 for community activities that support equity and inclusion, and community grants that provide up to $20,000 for projects that help communities, the environment, and industry.

Rubbish advice for agents

Hume council will hold a forum for local real estate agents to provide them with information about rubbish disposal options for ratepayers and tenants.

The forum is part of ongoing efforts to prevent illegal dumping in the region, with the councilreportingthatitcleanedup4881tonnes of illegally dumped rubbish last financial year.

The council hopes that through educating homeowners and renters about their waste disposal entitlements, such as two free hard rubbish collections and two free tip passes a year, there will be less illegal dumping across Hume.

Cr Jim Overend, who moved the motion at the June 11 council meeting, said that rubbish is often left on nature strips by tenants leaving a rental property.

“This forum will be a great opportunity for real estate agents to be made aware of the

services that Hume provides … and then to then be able to pass that on to their residents and householders,” Cr Overend said.

“Thiswaytheycanmakethemawareofthese servicesandalsotheconsequencesofdumping their rubbish illegally.”

Cr Jarrod Bell said that he suspects illegal dumping is fuelled by a lack of awareness around the free services available.

“Officers tell us time and time again, 16 per centofourtippassesarebeingused,yet,weget told time and time again … how inaccessible it is to go to the tip,” Cr Bell said.

Cr Joseph Haweil said that logistical and financial issues also p;layed a part.

“In some cases they’re downsizing, in some casesthey’removingfurtheraway,ordon’thave the resources to be able to transport things. So, it is at that point that you see a large amount ofrubbishbeingaccumulated,”CrHaweilsaid.

Community Winter Catch Up organisers Veena Moraes, Audrey Gambian, Isabella Rosinsky and Shammi Parekh. (Damjan Janevski) 414004_01

Getting health right for women

By Associate Professor Ines Rio

Being a woman often feels really tough. It can be hard on your body: periods, pregnancy, breastfeeding, menopause. It can be hard on your mental health: the load of caring for children, ageing parents, finances, making a happy home and lives for others. And the juggle of it all.

This is all made harder by less pay for the same work, less superannuation, and more unpaid work compared with men. It is expected that we bear the burden of what is needed in a family and shoulder the lion’s share of effort when things go awry.

We have less power, less of a voice. We are less heard. And all of this is exacerbated if you have a disability, don’t speak English, are parenting alone, experience trauma or violence or have a partner who doesn’t respect you as an equal.

We so often eat the burnt toast, take the smaller portion of food, spend money on our kids and forsake our own desires. We pay too little attention to our health needs, leave our cancerscreeningtoolateandputupwithwhat we wouldn’t want our daughters to endure.

There is an overdue conversation about women’s health and wellbeing happening now. It highlights the high prevalence and wide-ranging harm of family violence, and that our health and social system is gendered against women.

Itisasystemthatpaysdoctorsbettertohave

lots of short consultations rather than fewer longer ones, where they can deeply listen to women’s complex and often multiple health concerns.

Women tell us they often don’t feel listened to, and their health issues are diagnosed late.

Screening breakthrough

■ From page 1.

The GenWest team includes Family and Reproductive Rights Education Program (FARREP) workers who have long advocated for a more sensitive screening method.

“Now that there’s the option of a cervical screen that they can self-collect without the speculum that makes it much easier for people and is a much more safer process,” she said.

The Australian Centre for the Prevention of Cervical Cancer (ACPCC) is playing a pivotal role in the campaign by delivering healthcare provider education. This education focuses on the importance of self-collection and how to support patients through the process.

Ms Lorrimar said it is necessary that healthcare providers are well-informed and proactive.

“Because people don’t know what they don’t know,” she said.

“Being given healthcare information is really important and I think it’s essential for healthcare professionals to provide that information to people so that they can be proactive with their healthcare, to look after their bodies and know what to look out for when things don’t seem right.

“It’s also really important for healthcare professionals – particularly in Melbourne’s west.It’ssuchadiversecommunitythatIthink healthcare professionals also need to keep upskillingandmakingsurethey’refiguringout new ways to best work with all those different communities … it’s really important that healthcare professionals provide a safe space and are forthright with a lot of information around things like screening.”

The federal government reported that more than 315,000 women had self-collected as of March, with 27 per cent of screening tests done that way.

The option to self-screen has been particularly positive for people who have never screened or are overdue, with one in three first-time screeners and 40 per cent of overdue screeners taking up the self-collection option, the government said.

For more information on the National Cervical Screening Program and to access translated resources, visit: https://shorturl.at/ lLDIi

Translatedresourcescanbefoundat:https:// shorturl.at/DdrNM

Healthcare providers can find additional resources and webinars at: https://shorturl.at/ znjnj

childcare, work is hard, and finances and independence get even harder.

It’s not all doom and gloom. There are often joys to our gender. Think of more and deeper familyandsocialrelationships,thejoyofbeing a mother or daughter, being the lynchpin of a family, and often of a community, and viewing success as much broader than money and career.

And there are some welcome changes happening. There is longer maternity leave, companies are required to report on gender pay gap, and provide greater support for women experiencing violence.

And at last, minimum wages are increasing in some our most feminised workforce, such as aged care.

But to achieve equity for women and improve women’s lot, we need more changes across society, including our health, social, housing, education and work systems. As a doctor, I have loads of ideas about what we need. But the solutions shouldn’t be led by doctors. They need to be driven by all women. Star Weekly is running a series on women’s health – what keeps women well, what makes them unwell, what help they need, what stops them getting this help, and what would work to break down those barriers. When has the right help changed their world?

I applaud the newspaper group for this initiative. For if we get it right for women, we get it right for everyone.

Research is mainly done on men and only

* Associate Professor Ines Rio is a working GP. She is also a member of the National Women’s Health Advisory Council, Chief

Associate Professor Ines Rio. (Supplied)

Sexual and reproductive health team leader Sarah Lorrimar. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 413208_06

Pen pals, young and old

Residents from a Sunbury aged care facility were excited to receive letters through Diggers Rest Primary School’s pen pals initiative.

The program involved about 30 primary school students from years 3 and 4, who wrote letters to Bolton Clarke Riddell Gardens residents about their interests.

The program was designed to improve student’s writing skills, promote community connection, and bring joy to the recipients.

The students were provided with information about the residents interests and backgrounds.

Riddell Gardens lifestyle services co-ordinator Jenna Coghlan said that the aged care facility and school tried to match students with residents that shared similar interests.

“They were pleasantly surprised … they were very happy that they shared those interests,” Ms Coghlan said.

Ms Coghlan said that one resident was particularly excited to receive a letter from a student who enjoyed visiting op-shops as much as she did, and another received one from a student who also loved singing.

“It…showsthedifferentgenerationshaving similar interests,” Ms Coghlan said.

Ms Coghlan said that the program reflects the community spirit of Sunbury and the surrounding suburbs.

“We’re very community focused here … we’ve always had that connection to local schools and kindergartens.”

Briefs

Scooter impounded

A disqualified rider is without his motor scooter for 30 days after being intercepted on Ashbourne Road, Woodend, for displaying a false plate. Police said the rider was observed riding about 9.16 pm on Friday, June 14. A breath test was conducted and indicated the presence of alcohol. The rider allegedly refused to accompany the police back to the station for further breath testing. Officers located what was alleged to be a double-edged knife on the man. The 25-year-old’s motor scooter was impounded at a cost of $1475 and he is expected to be summonsed for numerous traffic and crime offences.

Blind cord safety

Rental properties will be safer for children, with consultation underway on a new rental minimum standard for blind cords. Kidsafe Victoria joined the state government to discuss the proposed standard, which will be mandatory for every rental property in Victoria from October 2025. It is already mandatory under product safety standards for all blinds installed after 2010 to be secured with either a cord guide or cleat and installed against a wall or structure. The new standard will require every rental property (regardless of when the blinds were installed) to meet the standard.

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

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Bolton Clarke Riddell Gardens residents Marie Bryce, Stephen Parsons, Patricia Connely and Jenny Willmott received letters from students. (Damjan Janevski) 414092_01

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Giz Asaurus’ message

By Oscar Parry

The anonymous ‘Giz Asaurus’ returned to New Gisborne, bringing joy to commuters as heheldasignencouragingpeopletobravethe winter weather.

The character, created by a Gisborne teenager who chooses to remain anonymous, appeared at the new roundabout next to the Macedon Ranges Regional Sports Precinct on Wednesday, June 19.

Sending a winter-appropriate message, the character held a sign that read ‘Keep your hearts (and toes) warm’.

The teenager behind the character said the idea to create a public character stemmed from a desire to bring joy to people in his community.

“I wanted to bring joy to people in a fun and simple way, and what better way to do that than in a ridiculous dinosaur costume?” he said.

The teenager said that he has received plenty of positive feedback from community membersandhasnowbuiltupalocalfanbase.

“I get lots of people telling me stories about how I made their day better,” he said.

“People have posted amazing things. My favourites are the lady who handmade a super cute crochet version of me and the guy who did a parody video [using footage] from Jurassic Park – it was so funny!”

A friend of the Giz Asaurus has begun joining him in some of his appearances –another teenager who plays the ‘New Giz Asaurus’.

The pair recently appeared at the Woodend Winter Arts Festival, where they got involved in a jazzercise class.

“I love supporting community projects so it was a good chance to branch out from only being seen in Gisborne,” the teenager said.

“I ... really love overhearing how much people enjoy The Giz Asaurus and New Giz Asaurus’ silly antics. We have a lot of giggles at home planning what we’re going to

Lancefiled farm starts holiday ‘Kindness Club’

A Lancefield animal sanctuary is launching a new school holiday program called ‘Kindness Club’, which promotes kindness and compassion towards farmed animals.

Edgar’s Mission Farm Sanctuary, which is set on a 153-acre property in Lancefield, rescues, rehabilitates, and rehomes farm animals.

Its new school holiday program, Kindness Club, will host morning and afternoon sessionsforchildrenaged6–12,withafocuson promoting compassion towards farm animals and the philosophy of the organisation.

‘‘ This is a place of kindness, a beacon of hope in a world that is not always kind to animals ’’ - Pam Ahern

Participants in the program, led by a qualified teacher and a team of volunteers, will observe and engage with the animals and take part in arts and craft activities and scavenger hunts.

In the event description, Edgar’s Mission founder Pam Ahern said that the Lancefield organisation aims to offset animal mistreatment.

“Thisisaplaceofkindness,abeaconofhope in a world that is not always kind to animals,” Ms Ahern said.

“It is a place I would have loved to visit as a younger person to have my feelings about animals and the natural world validated, not vanquished.”

Edgar’s Mission also completes advocacy initiativesthroughouttheyear,suchasmaking

Lancefield-based Edgar’s Mission is launching a new school holiday program. (Supplied)

submissions to government investigations and organising fundraising campaigns.

EachKindnessClubsessionwillrunfortwo hours, with morning and afternoon sessions running from July 3–13.

Details: https://edgarsmission.org.au/ school-holiday-program/

Oscar Parry

Judy Small entertains

Mountview Theatre in Macedon was filled with colour and music for an event featuring folk singer Judy Small.

The lunchtime event was organised by Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health’s Country LGBTIQA+ Inclusion Program(CLIP),whicharrangequarterly lunchtime events across the Macedon Rangesunderthetitle‘BirdsofaFeather’.

These events are designed to provide an opportunity to LGBTIQA+identifying adults to meet others, enjoy entertainment, and listen to guest speakers.

The Mountview Theatre show, which celebrated International Pride Month, featured performances from Ms Small, The Rainbow Voices Community Choir, and drag performer Polly Filla. CLIP organiser Belinda Brain said that the success of this series of events is largely due to the diversity of guests.

“The reaction to our Birds of a Feather events, which we have been running for the last 18 months, has been overwhelminglypositive,”MsBrainsaid.

“We’ve had a broad range of LGBTIQA+ speakers, including sports stars, activists, musicians, broadcasters and chefs.”

AnothereventintheseriesinFebruary this year featured a presentation from ABC veteran Julie Peters, who in her 30s, became the first employee of the organisation to openly transition.

do next.”

Residents can keep up-to-date with the Giz Asaurus’ antics by following their Facebook page: facebook.com/TheGizAsaurusRawr

To attend an upcoming event in the series, RSVP by contacting organiser Belinda Brain at belinda.brain@scchc. org.au or 5421 1666

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The anonymous ‘Giz Asaurus’ made an appearance in New Gisborne. (Damjan Janevski) 412298_08

New housing target for Hume

By Anne Parisianne

Hume council has called on the state government to ensure it delivers the infrastructure needed to accommodate 98,000 new homes in the municipality by 2051.

OnJune16,thegovernmentreleaseditsdraft 2051 housing targets, which will result in two million homes being built in metropolitan Melbourne and another almost 500,00 spread across the regions.

Melton will absorb the most new dwellings (132,00) followed by Wyndham (120,000), Casey(104,000),Hume(98,000)andWhittlesea (87,000).

Premier Jacinta Allen said Victoria has the largest annual population growth of all Australian states and needs more than two million additional homes by the 2050s.

“There are parts of our city that have been lockedupfortoolong,”MsAllantoldreporters at a press conference on Sunday.

The draft council housing targets are largely based on access to jobs, transport and services, the government said.

Hume mayor Naim Kurt said the council welcomed the government’s efforts to boost housing supply.

“Housing affordability is the number one issues facing Australians,” he said.

A walk on the wild side

Macedon zoologist Chris Humfrey will be hosting an Australian animal school holiday program at Jubilee Hall, with a focus on biodiversity education.

Mr Humfrey, a Macedon resident for 22 years, will be hosting multiple sessions of his wildlife workshops titled ‘Awesome Australian Animals’. These will take place across three days from July 9–11.

Attendees will see a variety of native Australian animals in-person and learn about the role they play in the ecosystem.

Mr Humfrey said that biodiversity is an important topic, and is especially relevant in the Macedon Ranges.

“It’snotjusta…lovelythingtodo…without these animals, it’s not a healthy environment for us to live in either,” Mr Humfrey said.

“We forget at times [that] we’re animals aswell.Weshareitwithsomanyotherdifferent

species that call the Macedon Ranges home.”

Mr Humfrey said attendees will get to interact with the animals and learn about the human role in protecting biodiversity.

“The main messages are that you can’t just save your favourite [animals]. Every animal is important and vital for a healthy ecosystem and protecting biodiversity,” he said.

“These animals that we need to protect have ajobfortheenvironmentthatinevitablyaffects us as well.”

Mr Humfrey said the show has a “hands-on” focus, and that he believes strongly in getting the younger generations enthused about Australia’s animals and the importance of protecting them

Details: https://wildaction.weteachme.com/ classes/1044535-take-a-walk-on-the-wild-sidewith-chris-humfrey

Oscar Parry

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“As a growth council, Hume is already doing the heavy lifting in delivering more than 3000 homesannually,andwebelieveinnercityareas need to share with us to deliver more homes where infrastructure already exists,” he said.

“We’re confident we can reach the new targets, but we need commitments from the state on the timely delivery of infrastructure to meet growth and methods to create more capacityintheconstructionandprivatesector.“

Victoria’s metropolitan planning strategy, released in 2017, set a target for 70 per cent of new homes to be built in established suburbs by 2051, with the remaining 30 per cent in greenfield areas.

Since 2014, 56 per cent of new homes delivered in Victoria have been in established areas.

In one of his final acts as premier, Daniel Andrews set a target to build 800,000 homes across Victoria over the next decade when announcing the government’s housing statement in September.

Latest Australian Bureau of Statistics data shows 11,071 homes were approved for construction in Victoria in the first three months of 2024, putting the state on track to approve fewer than 45,000 this year.

New station for firies

Mt Macedon Fire Brigade held an official opening for its new fire station, providing larger and more modern facilities for volunteers.

The $4.04 million station was built on Mt Macedon Road and will replace the brigade’s previous 42-year old station.

“It’s incredible to see how far we’ve come from the early days where firefighting equipment was housed in a shed owned by the Water Trust board, to this modern fit-for-purpose facility,” Mr Slattery said.

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The state government provided more than $4 million in funding to acquire the land and build the replacement station.

CFA chief officer Jason Heffernan said tat the new station features modern facilities that will improve service to the Mt Macedon community.

“The new station features a three-bay drive through motor room capable of storing modern firefighting vehicles,” Mr Heffernan said.

“It also has a rear training yard, a hose drying tower, male and female turnout facilities, a workshop, a brigade office and communications room, a multi-purpose training room and kitchen.”

Mt Macedon CFA captain Tim Slattery said thenewbuildingisanothergreatadvancement for the brigade.

Mr Slattery said the construction of the stationwas“alongtimeinthemaking”,where Melbourne University architecture students produced renovation designs to the previous station in 2017.

Mr Slattery said providing this academic opportunity “became the champion to the brigade’s cause to receive funding for a new station,” with the brigade providing $38,000 fromcommunitydonationsforimprovements to the base design.

The official opening event included an awards ceremony, with 50-year medals awarded to former CFA board member and Mt Macedon captain Kerry Murphy (who was also named a life member) and Christopher Fleming.

The brigade also celebrated a combined total of nearly 300 years of service from 14 of the members.

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Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas with members of the Mt Macedon Fire Brigade (Supplied).

Macedon zoologist Chris Humfrey with a tawny frogmouth. (Supplied)

Thirteen tobacco trade arrests

By Cade Lucas

Thirteenpeoplehavebeenarrestedandmultiple properties raided as part of a cross-border investigation into an organised crime group linked to the illicit tobacco trade.

As part of the joint operation with West Australian Police, the WA Department of Health and Australian Border Force, Victorian police executed six warrants on Monday, June 17, at residential properties in Sunbury, Werribee, Wollert, Collingwood, and Altona Meadows.

Police seized 15 firearms from the Sunbury address, along with illicit cigarettes, a gel blaster and a stolen vehicle.

The cigarettes are valued at approximately $2.4 million with a tax excise avoidance of between $2.5-3 million.

A 29-year-old Sunbury man was arrested

at the property and subsequently charged with being a prohibited person in possession of firearms, theft of motor vehicle, possessing a traffickable quantity of firearms and Commonwealth tax offences relating to illicit cigarettes. He was remanded in custody to face

Melbourne Magistrates Court on September 20.

A further 50,000 illicit cigarettes, 30 kilograms of loose tobacco, vapes, a crossbow, ammunition, cash and drugs including cocaine, steroids and magic mushrooms were seized from other addresses.

Police also arrested a 26-year-old Wollert manwhoisexpectedtobechargedonsummons with illicit tobacco offences and weapons offences, and a 28-year-old Collingwood man who was charged with drug and proceeds of crime offences. The latter was bailed to appear at Melbourne Magistrates Court on September 4.

A 19-year-old Officer man was arrested in relation to the investigation into a suspicious fire at a tobacco store in Seville on February 11. He was interviewed and released pending further inquiries.

Victoria Police anti-gangs division Detective Acting Superintendent Mark Hatt said they had been working with WA and federal authorities for the past 18 months to tackle organised crime groups involved in the illicit tobacco trade.

“ThereisnodoubtthatthearrestsinVictoria and Western Australia this week will have a significant impact on the organised crime groups operating in Victoria.”

As part of the cross border operation, WA Police charged seven men and two women, in relation to a $10 million illicit tobacco network operating out of the state.

The head of the group in Western Australia –a29-year-oldmanpreviouslyfromVictoria–is believed to have moved to WA in the last two years to establish the illicit tobacco network.

TheinvestigationintothenetworkinVictoria and in Western Australia remains ongoing.

History of nursing in Macedon Ranges

Kyneton Museum is hosting an exhibition about the rich history of nursing and medicine in the Macedon Ranges.

A collaboration between Kyneton Museum and the Historical Societies of the Macedon Ranges, the exhibition titled ‘Nurses, Medicine and Caring in the Macedon Ranges’ presents local stories, objects from the museum’s social history collections, uniforms, and a large collection of memorabilia from the old Kyneton Hospital.

The exhibition focuses on themes including nurse training, nurses at war, uniforms, local medical identities, bush nursing and shire hospitals, maternal and child health services,

midwifery and pharmacy in the Macedon Ranges.

The team behind the exhbition, Kyneton Historical Society secretary Larina Strauch, actingmuseumsupervisorMeredithBlake,and former Kyneton Hospital nurse and Kyneton Museum officer Pat Sanders, recounted some of the historic nursing tales from the region.

“On September 8, 1950, a very tiny baby girl (11/2lb or 680 gm), Frances Willmott, was born prematurely to parents Mr and Mrs John Willmott at the Kyneton District Hospital. These were the days before humidicribs, and the story hit the front pages of the national news,” they said. “Nurses still remember this

wonderful story and celebrate the story of baby Frances at the Kyneton Hospital – when no record of such a small child surviving existed in Victoria until then.”

Theteamsaidthattheexhibitionpaystribute to notable Macedon Ranges nurses, with many serving in wars.

One of these was Kyneton nurse Mary Rawson,whoservedasanurseduringtheBoer WarinSouthAfricaandagaininWorldWar1.

Some of the historic memorabilia showcased at the exhibition will include wicker baby scales used to weigh thousands of infants at hospitals and centres across Kyneton, Romsey and Lancefield; a kit bag used by volunteer

on show

Nurse Lillian Dickinson in World War 2; and a series of uniforms that demonstrate changes in nursing attire through the decades.

“They all have a special connection to the region and demonstrate the changes in nursing care throughout the decades and the importance of evolving techniques for better health for the community,” the team said.

The exhibition will run until February next year and is open from 11am–4pm each Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at the Kyneton Museum.

Details: https://www.mrsc.vic.gov.au/ See-Do/Events-and-Awards/Whats-onaround-the-shire/Nurses-Medicine-andCaring-in-the-Macedon-Ranges

A 19 year old man is arrested by Victoria Police as part of a cross-border investigation into the illicit tobacco trade. (Victoria Police)

Sacred Heart College – a rich history of education

It is quite remarkable to reflect on the courage, vision and faith of the five Sisters of Mercy who arrived in Kyneton 135 years ago and opened Sacred Heart College on Monday 29 July 1889. I can scarcely imagine the differences that have occurred in education since that time, yet Sacred Heart College in 2024 maintains a directlinktotheseinspirationalwomen through our shared Mercy heritage.

Originally situated in Wedge Street, Sacred Heart College moved to its current site on High Street in 1907. Over the next century, the school educated generations of young women and men, many of whom still regard the school and its teachers with great fondness and regard.

Maintaining its rich history of Catholic educationintheMercytradition,SacredHeart College has embraced the challenges of 21st Century schooling through its commitments to exemplary learning and teaching, authentic relationships and holistic education. The core values of Mercy education – service, hospitality, justice, compassion, respect and courage – inform all aspects of College life and provide a clear link back to the lives and work of our founders.

Today, the College’s byline ‘Learn. Care. Flourish’ captures the principles that inform allaspectsofaSacredHeartCollegeeducation.

Learn–providinganengaging,challenging, and personalised education for each student utilisingabreadthofevidence-basedstrategies

Care - offering wellbeing programs for students and working in partnership with

Heart College in its current High Street location in 1908.

parents to ensure that students grow into resilient, happy and compassionate young people.

Flourish – providing a holistic education for each student. At Sacred Heart College, we want every student to live life in abundance.

SacredHeartCollegelookswithexpectation and enthusiasm to the future. I encourage those in our local community currently considering options for their children’s secondary journey to learn more about the diverse educational offerings of Sacred Heart College Kyneton, by visiting the College website at www.shckyneton.catholic.edu.au or attending one of our regular tours.

Dr

Darren Egberts, principal

Learn. Care.

Sacred

RIght: The College today.

Empowering learners to make a positive impact

Global Village Learning (GVL) is redefining education in the Macedon Ranges by empowering learners to build communities that positively impact the world.

GVL believes young people have a far greater capacity than we give them credit for. Its curriculum is crafted around this belief and supported by its 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 the learning community crafts a truly personalised learning journey.

As it expands its 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.

Global Village Learning does more than educate—it inspires and empowers 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.

It is 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 at gvl.vic.edu.au

Global Village Learning inspires and empowers students to make a meaningful impact in the world.

Mentors helping women succeed

By Narelle Coulter

When Sarah Constable and Nikki* meet for coffee or a walk in St Albans, they look like old friends catching up for a chat.

They talk about movies, television shows, music, their pets and families.

However, the lives of Sarah and Nikki only intersected earlier this year thanks to early intervention program Women And Mentoring (WAM).

WAM supports women and non-binary people who are in contact with the justice system, offering them support and friendship in their local community. Volunteers use their life experiences to empower women to make change in their lives.

‘‘ It is nice

to

hold that space for someone, to allow them to trust another person in their life ’’

- Sarah Constable

Sarah, who has worked as a mental health nurse and is now a paramedic, became involved with WAM after seeing a Facebook advertisement calling for volunteers.

“I work full time in the ambulance service now and missed working with marginalised populations,” Sarah said.

“Most of WAM’s clients are referred from thejusticesystemandmayhaveconcernswith housing and drug and alcohol addiction. I’ve workedalotinthatspaceandfeelcomfortable in that aspect. I wanted to reconnect with someone in that position and see them grow and meet their goals.”

Sarah underwent training provided by

WAM before being matched with Nikki and receives ongoing support from fellow mentors through peer supervision. She and Nikki meet weekly or fortnightly in the community.

talk about what is going on in each other’s lives,” Sarah explained.

collating documents or go to the library with her to print documents.”

Sarah said she is enjoying walking beside Nikki on her journey towards a more positive life.

“Often women don’t have people they can trust. As an outside person with no vested interestitisnicetoholdthatspaceforsomeone to allow them to trust another person in their life and allow them to navigate a healthy relationship and model those behaviours.

“Doing this has helped me understand what other people face and their barriers and by default, that makes you appreciate your own life.”

WAM chief executive Tricia Ciampa said more volunteer mentors are needed in the west.

“Over the past few years we have seen demand for our mentoring service increase across the western suburbs. Approximately 17 per cent of referrals are for women living between Moonee Valley and Melton, and also Wyndham. It would be ideal to recruit 20 wonderfulvolunteers,womenandnon-binary folk, from these areas to help us establish a reliable pool of mentors to draw from,” Ms Ciampa said.

“Attracting volunteer mentors from the local area is so critical – you have local knowledge of services, you are comfortable getting about your area on public transport, and you are also helping build the capacity of people in your community to create positive change.”

* not her real name Volunteer mentor

“We mostly go for a walk or get a coffee and

“I am there to help if she’s struggling. I can link her in with services, I can attend appointments or provide assistance with

Ms Ciampa said mentors do not need specialist skills or knowledge but must be available during the week to meet with their participant.

To get involved phone 0403 583 648 or go to www.womenandmentoring.org.au

Circular economies showcased at Hume event

The buy recycled northern council showcase in Broadmeadows brought together 20 councils from Melbourne and northern Victoria.

The event, which was held on June 13 at Town Hall Broadmeadows, aimed to empower councils to make confident decisions when purchasing recycled materials and support Victoria’s transition to a circular economy.

Organised by Sustainability Victoria, the showcase provided a platform for councils to discuss strategies for increasing the use of recycled materials in infrastructure, landscaping, parks and gardens within their municipalities.

In addition to the discussions, the full-day event featured a mini-trade show featuring recycled product suppliers from the northern region and tours of local recycled material facilities.

Sustainability Victoria markets acceleration manager Shannon Smyth said the event not only provided the councils with a learning opportunity, but also allowed them to network with their local suppliers.

Innovative Plastic Solutions (IPS) technical directorLouwvanTondersaidtheeventwasan excellentopportunityforIPStodemonstrateits currentproductstocouncilsandencouragethe councilstochallengetheirsupplierstoconsider using recycled materials.

IPS supplies councils with high-quality, recycledplasticmaterials,liketactilepavement.

Tactile paving on the road helps pedestrians with visual impairments by providing raised, textured surfaces that can be detected by touch or underfoot, allowing them to navigate streets and sidewalks safely.

“By using recycled material and manufacturing in close proximity to where the councils are using it, so it’s also reducing the carbon footprint by reducing the logistics chain, (as) you’re not importing something from, say, China or Southeast Asia,“ Mr van Tonder said.

Hume mayor Naim Kurt said he appreciated theshowcaseheldinHumeandthathiscouncil got a chance to show how it uses recyclable products in its supply chains.

“We’re a leader in the circular economy space. We see the circular economy as a way to transform our manufacturing industry in Hume for the future after, you know, the closure of some big businesses,“ Cr Kurt said. The circular economy is an economic system aimed at eliminating waste and the continual use of resources.

It emphasises keeping materials, products and services in circulation within the economy for as long as possible. An example of this is usingrecycledmaterialstocreatenewproducts, which reduces the need for virgin materials and minimises environmental impact.

“We did a study with KPMG, which found that circular economy space can provide $903 million to our city’s Gross Regional Product, and it could lead to the creation of 1500 jobs per year in Hume by 2040. So, based on that research,we’vereallytriedtopositionourselves

as a council to try and promote the circular economy,” Cr Kurt said.

“The Buy Recycled Showcase helps to build on council’s global leadership in partnering with Dutch cities on how to advance the circular economy in Hume.”

The Netherlands ambassador visited Hume in March to discuss circular economy initiatives and how they can benefit business opportunities between the two countries.

Sarah Constable. (Damjan Janevski) 413251_04

Anne Parisianne

Broadmeadows MP Kathleen Matthews-Ward, Hume mayor Naim Kurt and participants. (Supplied)

MY PLACE

Macedon local Samantha Dunne talks to Oscar Parry about living and working in the Macedon Ranges.

What is your connection to Macedon?

I have lived in Macedon for almost 10 years, I work locally as a maternal child health nurse, my husband and I have owned a family business for the last 10 years (The Black Forest Motel) and we also live [there]. My mother ran this business for over 15 years before us. I have family also living locally.

What do you like about where you live?

I like the forests and Macedon Reservoir for walking and enjoying nature, fresh air, and healthy living. I also like the country feel of the small town of Woodend – its markets, shops, cafes and restaurants, which food wise, are equal with Daylesford.

What, if anything, would you change about where you live?

I would be thrilled if it was warmer in the winter.

Where is your favourite local place to spend time?

Mr. Cafe Macedon and walking in the Black Forest and around the Macedon Reservoir.

I also love walking around the river in Woodend with my dog and the ability to sit outside the cafes with my dog and friends for coffee.

Tell us something people would be surprised to know about you.

I am about to go to Spain to complete [the] Camino, The French Way. I have already completed 300 kilometres, so have 500 kilometres to go, of an 800 kilometre journey. I depart late August this year, and I have five weeks to complete the journey. I am training hard to make it, I don’t want to break down or fail, so if you see me out walking or exercising wish me luck, as the chance to repeat it would be years away – so it has to work out!

After you received your OAM, what was the reaction like among your community?

I had happy tears due to the number of people who said “congratulations” and “well-deserved”. It felt both wonderful and awkward – as a maternal child health nurse, you feel it’s your role to praise and lift work colleagues and clients up and offer them congratulations for all their milestones in their work or parenting journey. Then, suddenly it’s your turn, and it took a day or two to digest.

Myfamilywerereallyproudofme,andthat meant a lot, because in all the humanitarian and volunteer work I have done, I have used much of my own personal leave. This is time I missed spending with my own family, and some mother’s guilt comes with that – so, to hear them genuinely proud was cathartic for me, because I greatly treasure their praise and love.

100%

Samantha Dunne at the Manna Gum Gisborne MCHN service. (Damjan Janevski) 411622_03

Going dry for a cure

As winter and rain roll in, Dry July is just around the corner. Gerald Lynch speaks to Werribee’s Zach Thornton about the cause that asks people to give up or give.

More than 160,000 Australians have taken on the challenge of abstaining from alcohol for the month of July, but few would have stronger motivating factors than Werribee’s Zach Thornton.

After losing his father to cancer at a young age, he decided to jump on board and participate in Dry July during lockdown in 2020.

Feeling that alcohol was too easy to give up, Zach also threw in soft drinks and his beloved iced-coffees, as well as a 31-kilometre run at the end of the month, one kilometre for each day.

Less than a year after taking part in Dry July, in April 2021, Zach’s twin sister Zoe was diagnosed with breast cancer.

ThisspurredZachtocontinuethechallenge each year, and instead, run a kilometre for every year he and his sister had been around.

In 2021 it was 26, and this year, with Zoe making a full recovery, Zach will run 29 kilometres at the end of July, to celebrate Zoe, and help continue to raise funds.

For Zach, it took some time to get on board with the cause, but he looks back on it as one of the best decisions he’s made.

“I’ve always felt a sense of desire to advocate for causes, but before 2020 I hadn’t quite jumped on that one yet,” he said.

“I probably hadn’t really entirely reconciled my experience with losing my dad to cancer yet, but then I thought what better way to recognise and celebrate him, and do good to raise funds for those who have gone through it and are going through it.

“I know it’s seen as ‘difficult’ but it’s not, in the grand scheme of things. I do it for those aroundmeandobviouslyZoebecameafactor.

“If I can run for a couple of hours at the end of the month, and get off alcohol and sugary stuff, and use that to raise a few thousand, that’s all the fulfilment I could need.”

He said being around a football club and

‘‘ What I have to give up does not compare to what Zoe went through, what Dad went through, and what all the other Zoes and Dads are going through ’’ - Zach Thornton

beingasocialperson,hehasrunintoinstances where abstaining from drinking alcohol has made things slightly less enjoyable, but the sacrifice pales in comparison to that of those battling with cancer.

“Tarneit’s [his football club] mid-season ball has been in July the last two years, and dealing with people when they’re drinking and you’re not can be difficult,” he said.

“Ifyou’reinasettingwherealcoholispartof the fun, it can be a bit hard … but it genuinely doesn’t phase me … because what I have to give up does not compare to what Zoe went through, what dad went through, and what all the other Zoes and Dads are going through.”

In his first four years of participating, Zach has raised $12,218 toward various causes, and this year, he has his sights set on a $3000 goal, going toward the Royal Melbourne Hospital.

Tothoseonthefenceaboutgettinginvolved ahead of this July, he just had one message; do it.

“I think it’d be the easiest decision you could ever make,” he said.

“If you have someone you want to celebrate or raise awareness for, just commit to it … the challenge is worthwhile.”

The cause behind Dry July dates back to the first Dry July in 2008. Three mates, Brett, Kenny, and Phil, wanted to take a break from alcohol, so they decided to abstain for the month of July, coining it their ‘Dry July’. They

also wanted to raise money for a cause very close to their hearts, so they asked family and friends to sponsor them.

Hoping to raise $3000 to buy a TV for their local cancer centre’s waiting room, the campaignwasahugesuccessraising$250,000.

Since 2008, Dry July Foundation has continued to support cancer service organisations and has raised over $90 million for more than 80 organisations across Australia.

Dry July interim chief executive Gillian Odbert sees the cause as a way to raise awareness and give back to a cause that affects so many people.

“Like so many Australians, cancer has impacted many of my family and friends, including my mother, father and some of my uncles, so it has always been a cause close to my heart,” she said.

“Forme,DryJulyisuniquebecauseyoucan raise funds to support cancer patients with different variants through so many national, regional and local support organisations across Australia.

“It’s a tangible way to pay forward the support those services have given my family over the years.”

Shesaidinhertimeworkingwiththecause, there has been many great instances of people going above and beyond, but one story of two sons honouring their late father stands out above the rest.

“Last year we had two brothers, Tadgh and Declan Waddington, who raised over $17,000 for their chosen beneficiary, Ballarat Regional Integrated Cancer Centre (BRICC),” she said.

“In loving memory of their father, Mark, who passed away in August 2022 from a rare form of cancer, the Waddington brothers set themselvesthetaskofaddingtotheirDryJuly bykickingagoal(AFL)foreverydollarraised.

“The donations rolled in, and the boys stuck to their word. In late July, Declan and Tadgh

kicked thousands of goals and successfully wrapped up their Dry July with a bang!

“It is amazing what participants will do to raise funds, knowing the impact the services Dry July Foundation funds have on the lives of people affected by cancer.”

Dry July funds support people affected by cancer when they need it most.

Funds raised provide invaluable services –whetherit’saridetoalife-savingappointment, guidance from a specialist nurse, connection to an information service, access to therapy programs or a bed close to treatment.

Up until the end of June, Werribee business Western Landcare Services, has committed to matching any funds donated to Zach’s fundraiser up to $400.

Donate: https://www.dryjuly.com/users/ zach-thornton

Twins Zach and Zoe Thornton. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 413607_04

Dry July interim chief executive Gillian Odbert. (Supplied)

Program gets Hume kids moving

Hume will be one of the first council areas to benefit from a state government program aiming to encourage more children to walk, scoot, and bike to school.

Community Sport Minister Ros Spence and Greenvale MP Iwan Walters recently announced four new projects across Hume, Melton, Geelong, and Bendigo as part of the government’s Kids Active Travel Program.

Outdoors Victoria, in partnership with Hume council and local schools, will deliver

one of the projects, known as Park It.

Park It encourages families to drop off their children at nearby parks and walk the rest of the way to school in groups.

The project aims to foster community spirit and promote healthy habits, according to the government.

Travel-friendly technology, bike parking, storage facilities, safety education programs, andsignagetoenhancesafeschooltravelroutes will be [provided as part of the project.

The government said the Kids Active Travel program focuses on primary schools in areas with high levels of social disadvantage and aims to inspire healthy lifestyle habits from a young age.

Results from the program will be used to guide future active travel projects statewide.

“We’re determined to reverse the trend of one in four kids not getting enough exercise – walking, scooting or riding a bike to school is a great active way for kids to start the day,”

Event promotes Kindness to Elders

A ‘Kindness to Elders’ event was held in Macedon for World Elder Abuse Awareness day, brought together by the efforts of several local groups and esteemed Macedon Ranges locals.

The event, held at Jubilee Hall, included speeches from Athol Guy, Janet Wood, and Jack Harris, who all told stories about their lives.

Scouts and guides from Gisborne, Romsey, New Gisborne, and Lancefield set up, decorated, packed up, and provided lunch at the venue.

Macedon Ranges Kindness to Elders organiser Lynda McClure said that she believes advocacy events play an important role in achieving change.

“They connect a community, make them think about the matter at hand, and with the swell of awareness … eventually bring change to that community,” Ms McClure said.

“Councils and politicians also become involved as the swell gains momentum, leading to better outcomes for all.”

Ms McClure said that the event will help older people to “gain the confidence to speak up and voice their concerns” in relation to elder abuse.

“With a rapidly aging population this sector of the community can become one of the strongest of voices,” she said.

Ms McClure said highlights of the event for her included Wood’s speech about love towards grandparents, Guy telling an early memory of standing on docks waiting for his father to return from war, and Cook’s performance of his hit song ‘Heart’.

Ms McClure said that people can advocate for elder safety by “calling about” mistreatment towards elders in family and workplace settings, and to stay attentive to signs of distress from older people, which could be a result of abuse.

If you or anyone you know needs support, please call the confidential helpline on 1300 368 821 or visit Seniors Rights Victoria for more information: www.seniorsrights.org.

au Oscar Parry

Ms Spence said. “The new Kids Active Travel Program will help families in disadvantaged communities break the habit of driving to school and empower kids to get active more often.”

Mr Walters said, “The times before and after schoolaresobusyforfamilies,whichiswhyit’s great to see this program helping young people in Greenvale to incorporate exercise into their daily journeys to and from school”. Details sport.vic.gov.au.

Victoria will become the first Australian state to raise the age of criminal responsibility to 12 as long-awaited legislation arrives.

Premier Jacinta Allan and Youth Justice Minister Enver Erdogan announcedtheyouthjusticebillwould be introduced to state parliament on Tuesday, June 18.

The standalone bill lifts the age of criminal responsibility from 10 to 12.

“Ten and 11-year-olds don’t belong in the criminal justice system … they belong in schools,“ Ms Allan told reporters.

Children as young as 10 can be charged, convicted and imprisoned in every Australian state and territory except the Northern Territory, which raised the age of criminal responsibly to 12 in August.

The ACT passed legislation to raise the age to 14 by 2025 with some exceptions.

In 2023, the Victorian government committed to lifting the minimum age of criminal responsibility from 10 to 12, before raising it again to 14 by 2027 with some exceptions.

Attorney-General Jaclyn Symes said the government would seek for the change to take effect in 2025 despite previously flagging a start date of late-2024.

The bill would also lower the age of prosecution for recruiting children to commit crimes from 21 to 18, create a legislated scheme for warnings, cautions and diversions, codify the existing legal presumption of doli incapax and enable a two-year trial of electronic monitoring of youth offenders on bail.

Athol Guy AO signed the WEAAD purple ribbon at the event. (Supplied)

Star Weekly looks back through the pages of our predecessors

PUZZLES

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

ACROSS

1 Expend (3)

3 Choice (10)

10 Applaud (7)

11 Southern Pacific region (7)

12 Facilities of a building (9)

13 Ancient South American civilisation (4)

15 Florida fort (10)

17 Large jug (4)

19 Accepted standard (4)

20 Child of one’s child (10)

23 Keyboard error (4)

25 Insipid (9)

27 Members of a powerful military caste in feudal Japan (7)

28 Hub for military planes (7)

29 They protect the eyes from the glare (10)

30 Charter (3)

DOWN

1 Ineffectual (10)

2 The British Treasury (9)

4 Rest (9)

5 Moves steadily (5)

6 Watery (6)

7 Babysitter (5)

8 Web auction site (4)

9 Acting with ease (6)

14 Rainbow-coloured (10)

16 Painting of the countryside (9)

18 British civil service (coll) (9)

21 Said when raising a glass (6)

22 Light reddish brown (6)

24 Arab state (5)

25 Counterparts (5)

26 Egyptian goddess (4)

Using the nine

four letters or more can you list? The centre

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”.

1 Colloquially, what is a cakewalk?

2 Where is the Bredikhin crater located?

3 For which three films has Daniel Day-Lewis won an Academy Award for Best Actor?

4 In which city was Australian cricketer Usman Khawaja born?

5 To which continent is the kangaroo rat native?

6 In which year was X (formerly Twitter) created and launched?

7 Maleficent is the main antagonist in which animated Disney film?

8 Which motor company makes the vehicle X-Trail?

9 Matt Damon (pictured) stars as a former criminal named Max in which 2013 sci-fi action film?

10 What is a female moose called?

No. 191

No. 191

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

Kids sewing workshop

Primary school-aged children can learn to make fabric bunting in the school holidays, on Monday, July 1, at Sunbury Neighbourhood House, 531 Elizabeth Drive, Sunbury. BYO funky fabric or choose from a pre loved stash. Bookings essential.

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

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, at room five at the Hume Global Learning Centre in Sunbury.

■ https://bit.ly/3jvM6oJ

Rotary club

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

■ sunburyrotary@gmail.com

Ladies probus

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

■ Leonie, 0401 764 182

Sunbury Ladies Probus Club

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

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

Sunbury Combined Probus Club

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

■ Jo, 0410 834 272

Toastmasters

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

■ vpm-4185@toastmastersclubs.org

Camera club

The Macedon Ranges Photographic Society is your local camera club for friendship, photographic outings, workshops, guest presenters, competitions and more.

Meetings on the first Tuesday of the month, followed by the next Monday. Doors open at 7pm, meeting starts at 7.30pm at Dromkeen, 1012 Kilmore Road, Riddells Creek.

■ https://bit.ly/41j5BEw

Breast cancer support group

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

■ Lesley, 0484 691 226

Village connect

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

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

Pernaperna Women’s Group

The group is currently knitting and crocheting blankets for First Nations peoples in palliative care across Australia. Pernaperna is a friendly group who meet fortnightly at Sunbury Neighbourhood House, 531 Elizabeth Drive, Sunbury, on a Thursday, from 1-3pm. It has have established a bush tucker garden at Sunbury Neighbourhood House. New members warmly welcomed. If you don’t knit or garden but would just like to drop in for a chat, the group would love to meet you. ■ Joan, 0418 302 676

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

Carer connect chat

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

HarmoniX Vocal Company

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

■ harmonixvcinc@gmail.com

Craft and conversation

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

■ https://bit.ly/39BIu2O

Jacksons Creek Combined Probus

The club meets on the second Monday of each month at the Sunbury Bowling Club at 10am. This friendly group of men and

women enjoy outings and meetings each month and twice yearly trips away staying in cabins and caravans. Visitors and new members are warmly welcomed

■ Doug, 5428 3317, or Teresa, 0417 373 006

Chill Out Sunbury

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

■ https://bit.ly/3lmVgVhv

Come have a chat

Delve into deeper topics and enjoy intriguing conversations by joining the Table 8 Discussion Group. Chats every Tuesday, from 10.30-11.30am, at Macedon Lounge, 40 Victoria Street, Macedon.

■ Carol, 0431 186 575

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 Golf Club. All women are welcome.

■ cwawoodendeves@gmail.com

One Voice Sunbury

One Voice Sunbury

community choir rehearses each Tuesday, from 6.30pm, at Goonawarra Neighbourhood House. Fun and welcoming choir, new members welcome, no prior

singing experience required. Just join in the fun.

■ sunbury@withonevoice.org.au

Sunbury Ladies Badminton Club

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

■ sunburylbc@gmail.com

Sunbury Badminton Club

The Sunbury Badminton Club plays social games on Tuesdays and Wednesdays nights, from 7.30-9.30 pm, and on Wednesdays, 10am-noon. Monday night is a round robin competition from 7.30-9.30pm. All welcome to attend at Clarke Oval Stadium, 49 Riddell Road.

■ sunburybc@gmail.com

(Pictures: iStock)

Xgenz set to light up Sunshine

By Gerald Lynch

Get set for a night of classic rock hits, as the Xgenz band returns to Sunshine this Friday night.

At the Double Deuce bar in Sunshine North, $10 tickets will be available at the door to experience a show that has been rocking Melbourne’s west for many years.

With drink specials and pool tables, the night is sure to be filled with fun.

Xgenz guitarist and founder Terry Koutsouras said the band loves to play

in Sunshine.

“We are regulars there, we’ve built a great relationship with the venue and the community,” he said.

“We play there every couple of months, we love playing there. We get a crowd of all ages, and we engage with our crowd.

“All our songs are ones you can dance to and sing along to, it’s all about having a good time.”

Xgenz plays exclusively covers of classic rock music, but Terry said no two shows have the same track list.

“We are very particular with the songs we

play, and we play to our audience,” he said.

“It’s pointless just playing songs I like, it’s all about what the crowd wants.

“We’re a very energetic group, and we thrive off the crowd. Our music hits you where it counts.”

The band has been around for more than five years, and has seen many personnel changes, but Terry said the current group is among the best ever.

Doors open at 6pm at the Double Deuce bar at 264 McIntyre Road, Sunshine North, on Friday, June 28.

Eynesbury rugs up for a cool festival

The Eynesbury Winter Festival is returning for this year’s school holidays.

Held at the Eynesbury Estate Homestead, the all-ages festival will span from Thursday, June 27, to Sunday, July 14, and boast a variety of activities and special guests.

This includes DJ Lenny Pearce, Olympic gold medalist Steve Hooker, and players from Western United Football Club.

Pearce will play a special opening weekend set at Winter Solstice, which takes place on Saturday, June 29.

Pearce said on a personal level, the occasion had a particular sentiment attached to it.

“I create a lot of my music right here at home

in Eynesbury, and there’s something so unique and special about launching my new album where it all began,” he said.

His debut album, The Wiggles Sound System: Rave of Innocence, is a reimagining of classic Wiggles hits in the form of electronic dance music.

Pearce is not the only one bringing the heat for the Winter Solstice Night – there will also be a fireworks display and giant bonfire.

Kids’ Fun Day, on Saturday, July 6, will be hosted by Hooker and Western United players will engage in a penalty shootout with attendees.

Festival-goers can also expect to enjoy an ice

rink, carnival zone, night market, ice hockey exhibition match, and food trucks.

Resimax Group founder and managing director Ozzie Kheir said the occasion would be a highlight for families and showcase life in the area.

“The Eynesbury Winter Festival is an opportunity for us to share Eynesbury’s unique nature with people across Melbourne and celebrate the growing community we have helped to build here,” he said.

Details: https://eynesbury.com.au/ winter-festival/

Winter is coming to Williamstown.

From Friday, June 28 to Sunday, July 14, Commonwealth Reserve and Nelson Placewillbetheideallocationforawintry family trip. With an ice-skating rink and an unmissable view of Melbourne as your background, Commonwealth Reserve will be a sight to behold.

Also at the reserve there will be the HMAS Castlemaine, captivating roving light installations and a DJ for music to set the scene as you skate the night away.

Light displays will transform three landmark buildings across Nelson Place every day from 5pm until 10pm.

For a bit more extra weekend fun there will be interactive light painting from 7.30pm to 9.30pm each Friday and Saturday for the duration of Winter in Williamstown.

HobsonsBaymayorMattTylersaidthe eventshowcasehowmuchWilliamstown has to offer.

“Williamstown is such a beautiful place at any time of year, but I can’t wait toseeittransformedthiswinter,”hesaid.

“There’s so much to do in Williamstown, from great places to eat and drink and plenty of historic places to visit and explore, and this event is going to shine a new light on what is already one of our city’s most popular places.

“Sogetruggedupandcomeandexplore the beauty of winter in Williamstown.”

Details: experiencehobsonsbay.com

Sunbury music fan rocks the airwaves sharing his passion

Rock-focused radio program ‘TinShedMusic’ on Sunbury FM features a wide range of artists from the collection of Sunbury music stalwart Chris Galea.

GaleahasplayedinseveralSunburyactsover the years, such as the ‘Jackson’s Creek Boogie Band’, ‘Salty Dog’ in the 80s and 90s, and his current band ‘Bad Penny’s Rhythm n Blues, Rock’.

Galea even wrote a song about the suburb which he sometimes plays on his show, titled ‘Last Train to Sunbury’.

HisprogramhasastrongfocusonAustralian rock, hard rock, boogie, and the best of British 60s and 70s rock.

“I’ve been doing it for ten years at Sunbury radio, and I’ve gained a really good following

far and wide because of streaming,” Galea said.

“People are listening in Tasmania, Queensland, Western Australia, overseas –

when people go away, they say ‘we’re going to listen to you’, and they’re on a ship near Fiji!”

Mr Galea draws much of his musical taste and knowledge from his youth as an enthusiast and member of the Australian rock scene, which he noted was an exciting time to be a Sunbury resident where local bands and festivals flourished.

He said he has always had a knack for music trivia, which has served him well in his time as a radio presenter.

“When I was younger … people would say ‘that’s just trivia, Chris, you’re wasting your time with that.’ But, I probably wasn’t really!” he said.

His show draws fans from a wide demographic, which he says is largely due to

the freedom presenting music on community FM radio offers.

“It was designed for people to just get on who had passion, who loved music and have knowledge of their music, and are prepared to go on there as a volunteer … put the time in, and play the music to people,” Galea said.

“It’s just the love of certain types of music … they gravitate to it.”

TinShedMusic broadcasts each Wednesday from noon–3pm on 99.3FM Sunbury Radio and can also be listened to through online streaming.

Details: https://sunburyradio.com.au/ chris-galea/ Oscar Parry

Eddie Russell HMAS Castlemaine. (Supplied)

Xgenz will play in Sunshine on Friday, June 28. (Supplied)

Max Westwood

DJ Lenny Pearce with Chelsea, 4, Mila, 1, Matteo, 1, and Mason, 10, at Eynesbury Homestead. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 413826_01

Sunbury musician and ‘TinShedMusic’ programmer Chris Galea. (Damjan Janevski) 414498

SPORTS QUIZ

1. What animal is the mascot of the A-League team Macarthur FC?

2. Melissa Wu recently became the first Australian diver to qualify for how many Olympic Games?

3. The USA beat Canada and what other nation in the Group Stage of the 2024 Twenty20 World Cup?

4. The NBL team Melbourne United was previously known by what name?

5. The harness racing track Menangle Park is located in which state?

6. Alex de Minaur recently achieved his highest-ever ATP ranking of what number?

7. Sydney Swans forward Joel Amartey recently kicked how many goals in an AFL match against Adelaide?

Which Super Netball team recently parted ways with head coach Bec Bulley less than halfway into a four-year contract?

The WNBL will have a new team next season based in which regional Victorian city?

. Which Richmond AFL star recently reached the milestone of 300 games?

In the NHL, what are Ottawa also known as?

Who won the men's WWE Royal Rumble in January?

In darts, what is the regulation distance between the player and the front of the board?

14. 8.95m (29ft 4.5in) is the distance held by Olympic World Record holder Mike Powell in which event?

15. In the 2022 AFL Grand Final, how many points did winners Geelong score?

16. Which country won the gold medal in the women's all-around gymnastics at the 1988 Summer Olympics?

17. The sport of rowing as we know it today came from a rivalry between Oxford and which other university?

18. How many points under par is a birdie in golf?

19. Shuttlecocks are mainly made from duck or goose feathers and what other material at the tip?

20. In which US city did pickleball originate?

21. What is the name of the new team joining the A-League Men’s competition later this year?

22. Swimmer Ariarne Titmus broke the world record for which event at the Olympic selection trials?

23. Which country did Australia dismiss for 72 in their third T20 World Cup fixture?

24. And which spinner took four wickets for the Aussies to claim Man of the Match honours?

25. Which legendary film actor finished second at the 1979 Le Mans 24 Hour motor race?

26. The Venus Rosewater Dish is presented to the winner of which women’s tennis tournament?

27. Matildas soccer star Sam Kerr plays for which Women’s Super League club in England?

28. Which Melbourne Demons AFL star suffered a lacerated spleen, a punctured lung and four broken ribs against Collingwood in the King’s Birthday clash?

29. Which golfer famously won the 2000 US Open by 15 strokes?

30. Stade de France, the country’s largest stadium, was originally built for which major 1998 event?

Ariarne Titmus

Sam Kerr

Lexus LBX, is small but stylish

By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring

LBX is the Lexus equivalent of the Toyota Yaris Cross, but is it more than that?

With a truncated, low-riding version of the Lexus ‘spindle’ grille, the letters apparently stand for ‘Lexus Breakthrough X(cross)-over’. It’s a Lexus, yes and a crossover, but we’re not sure what makes it a breakthrough.

Sitting below the UX, it is the smallest Lexus to date and only the second model to carry a three-letter name, instead of the usual two letters, after the halo LFA supercar from 2011.

L was reportedly added to the combination to avoid a clash with Citroen which owns the rights to BX, a model the French marque produced from 1982 to 1994 – when it was replaced by the Xantia.

Styling

There are three grades from which to choose, with prices starting from $47,550 plus on-roads for the LBX Luxury 2WD, $52,990 for LBX Sports Luxury 2WD or $56,990 for LBX Sports Luxury AWD.

Our test vehicle was the entry level Luxury grade finished in pearlescent white.

It can be identified by 18-inch alloy wheels with a dark grey and bright machined finish, LED headlights with adaptive high beam, rear spoiler and privacy glass and a two-tone finish.

Inside, the LBX Luxury has black NuLuxe upholstery for the seats, steering wheel, door and instrument panel trim, with contrasting red stitching, front and rear carpet floor mats, heated front seats, two-zone climate air with remote function, wireless phone charging, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, ambient interior lighting, smart entry and start and a powered tailgate.

The front seats are heated with eight-way power adjustment for the driver with two-way lumbar support and memory function.

Sports Luxury adds unique 18-inch wheels and a unique finish on the rear pillar which combines thin strips of gloss and non-gloss finish to create a stylish geometric expression.

Inside, it gains a combination of artificial NuLuxe and Ultrasuede upholstery, suede cloth trim for the door, instrument panel, and console box, and a premium leather shift knob and heated steering wheel.

The higher grade also gains Head-Up Display (HUD) with touch-sensitive steering wheel controls, multi-colour ambient interior lightinganda13-speakerMarkLevinsonaudio and active noise control.

Lexus Teammate advanced park is also included to make parking even easier.

LBX comes standard with a five-year/ unlimited kilometre warranty, plus a three-year complimentary subscription to Lexus Encore which provides exclusive offers withluxuryhotelpartners,invitestoeventsand experiences and fuel discounts at participating Ampol servos.

Infotainment

Multimedia is supported by a 9.8-inch touchscreen display with satellite navigation, paired with a six-speaker Panasonic audio system compatible with wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto.

Up to three users can save their personal settings for the multimedia, vehicle settings and active safety parameters.

There’s wireless charging, three front and two rear USB-C ports, as well as front and rear 12V accessory sockets.

But bear in mind the charge sockets are USB-C, so that old USB-A to -C cable is not going to work.

Engines/transmissions

Thehybridsysteminfront-driveLBXcombines a1.5-litrethree-cylinder,AtkinsonCyclepetrol engine that produces 69kW/185Nm, with a single electric motor that generates a combined output of 100kW.

In comparison, the donor Yaris Cross has a smaller electric motor and delivers

67kW/120Nm, with a peak output of 85kW.

A CVT-style continuously variable auto offers two modes: Eco and Normal.

Safety

As yet the LBX has not been rated for safety by ANCAP.

Lexus Safety System+ provides a comprehensive suite of safety features, including eight airbags, which is designed to help provide protection for drivers, passengers, and other road users.

It’s equipped with the Pre-Collision System (PCS) with Pre-collision Braking (PB), which may be able to detect preceding vehicles, pedestrians and bicyclists in the daytime, as well as oncoming vehicles and motorcycles in the daytime.

A camera mounted on the steering column monitors driver attention.

If, like me, you often drive one-handed, with that hand in the 12 o’clock position, you’ll get in trouble from the system because the camera cannot see your face.

We kid you not. The system may even shut down the car if it becomes really concerned.

Driving

We didn’t get off to a good start with the LBX.

Although the key was in the cabin, it somehow managed to lock itself. Good thing there’s a secret button that can be used to release the doors.

After that hiccup LBX refused to start, as in the electrical system played totally dead - no lights, no nothing.

After jumpering the car, it was finally coaxed into life, but then did the exact same thing a couple of days later. Grrr . . .

It may have been a failing 12-volt battery, but deciding to take no chances we treated the LBX as a plug-in hybrid, connecting it to a trickle charger each time we returned home.

While the 12-volt battery is located under the back seat like my old Beetle, it is possible to charge the car from the fuse box under the bonnet.

Thankfully, there were no further recurrences.

Although the car reports the current state of the hybrid system, the instrumentation does not extend to a monitor for the secondary battery as it has done in many other cars over the years.

The project lead engineer Kunihiko Endo said engineering the car to provide the level of refinement expected from a Lexus was a challenge.

Beingasmallervehiclespacewaslimitedand they had to adopt a different approach to the traditional use of sound insulation.

Does it work? Yes and no.

Back in the day, the V8-powered Lexus LS 400 was the quietest car we had ever driven.

It was so quiet that it was often difficult to tell whether the engine was running and we kept double-starting it.

Fast forward and the LBX is not that car.

You cannot escape the fact that this is a small vehicle with a short wheelbase, and the ride tends to be choppy on our second rate roads.

Engine noise is also very apparent under hard acceleration.

The front suspension features a new MacPhersonstrutsetupwithupdatedgeometry to ensure straight-line stability and minimal understeer.

At the rear, front-drive variants use a rigid torsion beam while the AWD variant employs a trailing arm, double wishbone set-up to accommodate the rear motor.

The chassis has been strengthened with multiple braces, short pitch welding techniques and more than 19 metres of structural adhesive to maximise torsional rigidity.

Thebonnetmeanwhileismadeofaluminium to save weight.

The dash from 0-100km/h takes 9.2 seconds and it has a top speed of 170km/h.

Combined fuel consumption from the 36-litre tank is a claimed 3.8L/100km, using standard 91 RON unleaded, with CO2 emissions of 85g/km.

LBX features a bi-polar nickel-metal hydride battery, which Lexus reckons offers much greaterpowerdensityandthroughputpotential than traditional lithium-ion cells.

The nickel-metal hydride battery is

positioned underneath the rear seat.

Aside from electrical problems, LBX feels like a definite step up from Yaris Cross.

The drive experience is generally satisfying, but performance is adequate rather than exhilarating.

Theleather-accentedsteeringwheelisamong the best we’ve used, smooth, chunky and easy on the fingers.

Fuel consumption is good, but higher than expected, at 4.9L/100km after 420km, compared to the manufacturer’s claim of 3.8L/100km.

Two Isofix child seat anchors are offered in the rear, but rear legroom is pretty much non-existent.

The boot however has a larger capacity than expected.

A puncture repair kit is provided in lieu of a spare tyre and wheel.

Of note the infotainment system needs a bit of work.

There’s no home button and no facility to connect to Android Auto if your phone does not automatically re-establish a connection upon re-entering the vehicle.

Wefoundtheoverhead360degreecameraso annoying that we opted to turn it off.

As soon as vehicle speed drops to a crawl, it switchesonobscuringthemaporwhateverelse is on screen. Grrr . . .

The satnav is second rate, offering very little information in regard to street signs and upcoming turns.

We switched to Waze instead. Grrr . . .

Summing up

Sorry, but that’s a no from us. LBX is too small and has too many annoying traits.

In fact, apart from growing its market share, we’re left wondering whether models like the UX and LBX risk eroding the reputation that Lexushasbattledtobuildoverthepast30years or so. Then again younger drivers recognise and find the styling appealing, so maybe we are just not part of the demographic that Lexus has in its sights.

Chris Riley says LBX is too small and has too many annoying traits. (Pictures: Supplied)

The weather might be getting cooler, but the action is heating up on the courts and fields. StarWeeklyphotographer Ljubica Vrankovic was out shooting some of the action on Saturday.

Action from around the grounds

1/ Borbor Sam and Nathan Talevski. 414027_02

Melton Phoenix’s Deng Shan_(Ljubica Vrankovic)_414042_15

North Sunshine’s Alex Gould. 413385_05

Riddell’s Dylan Podolczak. 414039_18 6/ Riddell’s Maddison Brown. 414038_1 7/ Wallan’s Matthew Perri. 414039_17

Wallan’s Rebekah Konstantopoulos and Riddell’s Fionnuala McKeagney-Stubbs. 414038_02

Western Rams’ Michael Walsh. 413385_01 10/ Westgate’s Melvin Becket. 414027_16

Ladder leaders are set to meet in an epic clash

Second-placed Gisborne gets another crack at Bendigo Football League ladder leader Sandhurst at Gardiner Reserve this Saturday and coach Rob Waters is looking forward to the challenge.

Back in round two at Queen Elizabeth Oval, the Dragons scored five of the first six goals and from there Gisborne was playing catch up.

The loss is the Bulldogs only loss of the season. Sandhurst sits undefeated and eight points clear, having played one more game than the Bulldogs.

“It was three goals I reckon in the first quarter to four points,” Waters said of the first game between the sides.

“And if I remember correctly they got a 50 metre penalty that put them in the goal square and got a free kick straight straight away so they got two in a row there which sort of blew the quarter out.

“I thought they controlled the first quarter, but I thought we dominated the second quarter, but just couldn’t get enough on the

scoreboard and the game was sort of that same margin for the rest of the day.”

Gisborne had a round one bye and met Sandhurst in round two, but this time around the Bulldogs will be coming off their second bye, which Waters believes will be more of a help than the hindrance of earlier in the season.

“I reckon it refreshes us up a bit,” he said.

“The other main difference from the start of the year is we’ve played our eight games in a row now so we’ll be ready to go.

“Both teams have some injuries, but I guarantee there will still be 22 against 22 next week. I have no doubt we’ll be seeing a fair bit of each other later in the season.”

The Bulldogs will be without star ruckman Braidon Blake who entered the mandatory 21-day concussion protocol after the June 8 game against Castlemaine.

“He’s one of the best players in the competition and we rely on him heavily and go very well with him in the midfield for us so we’ll see how things go and maybe slightly

adjust here and there,” Waters said.

“But they have their key playing coach (Bruce Curnow) missing and he sets up beautifully around the ground and he’s got great voice around the ground so they will miss him as well.”

Sandhurst enters the game on the back of a 23.14 (152)-5.8 (38) win against Kangaroo Flat.

Justin Flynn

Double pain for Warriors

Western Warriors slight finals hopes are all but over in the Victorian Netball League championship with two losses last week. It was a fast-finishing Warriors that left it too late to get the points in their match against Boroondara Express on Wednesday.

Coach Kim Bailey was left to lament another sluggish start.

For a second straight week, the Warriors come late from a big deficit but were unable to chase it back. Against the Express, the Warriors lost 66-63.

“Close yet again, we just can’t give teams that big of a start,” she said.

“So yeah, disappointing. You know, the good thing is we know we can come back, (we) just can’t get that far down. We were flat to start, it looked like we were flat.

“It took us a while to work into the game, but we tried a few different combinations and just giving them time to come off the court like Simona (Di Philippo), for example, came off the court, had a look at what’s going on, then goes back on and she had a great second-half.

“Same with Ruby (Shannon), was a little bit behind the play, came back on and probably had the best defensive game for the season.”

The Warriors were down by 12 goals at one stage, but outscored Boroondara 19 to 12 in the final term.

The Warriors will be without goal defence Natalie Tommasini for a few weeks.

“It’ll be a little bit difficult, but we’ll live,” Bailey said.

“With Elly (Randall) stepping up tonight, we’ve got Georgia Berry, and we might bring Eliza Gollant up.”

The Warriors under-23s defeated Boroondara by 10 goals, 56-46 which Bailey said “would give them the world of confidence”.

“They played tonight like we thought they could play the whole season so (it was) really pleasing. We’re coming to the back end of the season and they can finish off positively hopefully. The smiles on their faces when they get a win was worth a million bucks.”

The Warriors were back in action on Sunday in the first match of round 18. They headed up to Bendigo to face the Bendigo Strikers.

The Strikers lead by four at quarter time and the margin was back to two at the main break.

It was still anyone’s game heading into the final quarter with the Strikers leading by three goals.

There was no fast finish for the Warriors this time, with the Strikers winning 54-44.

The Warriors were without Julia Woolley in the match.

Sports shorts

EDFL

The Sunbury Kangaroos have slipped out of the Essendon District Football League division 2 top four with another loss on Saturday. This time the Kangaroos faced the Northern Saints and the Saints took control of the game early. The game was all but over at half time, with the Saints winning 18.7 (115)-7.7 (49). Blake Lawson was named the Kangaroos best. Elsewhere, East Sunbury had an 18.10 (118)-7.4 (46) loss to Glenroy. In division 1, Rupertswood lost to Tullamarine, 13.8 (86)-5.8 (38).

Big V

The Sunbury Jets had a mixed weekend in the Big V men’s championship division. The Jets beat the Blackburn Vikings on Saturday night, 98-97. They backed it up on Sunday against the ladder leaders, Wyndham. The Jets were unable to come away with the points, losing 98-76. The Jets sit in eighth spot. The Jets women lost to Wyndham, 96-70.

Ballarat FL

The Sunbury Lions lost a low scoring thriller against Melton in the Ballarat Football League on Saturday. It was an emotional day, with the Bloods mourning the death of one of their players, Billy Sullivan. The Bloods were able to do enough to win, 8.11 (59)-8.7 (55) to get the win and move a game clear on top of the ladder. Jake Egan was named the Lions best along with Jordan Tentonello.

FV

Sunbury United managed to take away a point from its clash with Altona North in the FV state league 3 north-west. After a week off for the catch up round, neither team was able to score on Saturday, finishing 0-0. Sunbury sits in eighth spot, but there is only eight points between it and top side Western Eagles. In state league 5 west, Gisborne beat Bendigo City, 2-1.

Pat McKenna is Gisborne’s leader goalkicker this season with 29. (Jacob Pattison) 334031_16

Kim Borger shot 32 goals in the loss. The Warriors sit second bottom with five wins. In the under-23s, the Warriors lost to the

Strikers, 48-46. Both teams face Melbourne University Lightning on Sunday in round 19.

Kim Borger (Grant Treeby/NV)

Cannons and Knights depleted by the nationals

The Calder Cannons have won their last three games to push into fourth place on the Coates Talent League ladder, but all bets are off for Saturday’s match against Northern Knights.

Players from both sides will be missing, playing in South Australia with Vic Metro for the under-18 national championships.

Cannons, who beat Northern Knights by 30 points during their first meeting earlier in the year, will be without captain Damon Hollow, Isaac Kako, Harry O’Farrell, Jayden Nguyen and Nash King for the clash.

Knights players Jesse Dattoli, captain Zak Johnson, Thomas Sims and Gabriel Stumpf are also part of the Vic Metro squad.

Cannons head coach Sam Willatt, himself will be absent for the match due to his assistant coaching role with the Metro team, said the match would be an interesting one.

“It could be a really good test of our depth;

we’ve got some kids from school football returning, so we might use this to have a look at (the players) who we haven’t seen much of this year,” he said.

“It’s going to be really interesting to see the sides that come out. It will be a really good opportunity for a lot of our boys to show us what they can do, maybe in a different position, maybe some guys playing their first game.”

Willatt said he was impressed with the way the Cannons players had competed so far in the national championships.

In the first match against the Allies small forwardKakokickedtwogoals,whileHollow racked up 21 touches.

“If their best performances are in the nationals, that’s a really good sign, because obviously they’re valued quite heavily for their prospects going into the draft at the end

of the year,” he said.

“It’s about the experience they get, to travel, to play with the best guys in the state and the league. The belief they get from being able to show it on the national stage is pretty cool too.”

The Cannons girls were in action on Saturday and it was a tough day out for them against the Oakleigh Chargers.

The Chargers led 41-0 at quarter time and the Cannons failed to score a goal until the final quarter.

It was the Chargers winning 14.13 (97)-2.2 (14).

Maddison Albrecht and Eden Grant were named the Cannons best.

The Cannons girls have a bye this week.

Bombers clear on top

By Tara Murray

In danger signs for other sides, things are starting to click for Riddell in the Riddell District Football League.

With a number of new players and a new coach, there were plenty of expectations on the Bombers this season.

While they have been able to get the wins on the board, things have been as smooth as coach Arron Bray would have liked.

“It’s taken a little longer than I thought it would to play my system and this is what it is about,” he said.

“It took me 18 months at Rupertswood. I was expecting it to be a little quicker here with the calibre of players we have.”

On Saturday, the Bombers were able to come away with the points against a red hot Wallan.

Bray said it was an arm wrestle all day.

“We were up at quarter time and then Jesse Horton got tunnelled under the ball and he folded like he’d been in a car crash,” he said.

“We had to reset. Wallan got out to a lead before we kicked a couple of goals heading

into half time.

‘We kicked five goals in the third quarter. We took a couple of blokes off to rest a couple up.

“We were never going to lose the game.”

Bray said Horton was OK after landing on the top of his shoulder, not his neck.

Matthew Panuccio kicked three goals for the Bombers, while Dean Galea and Kamen Ogilvie kicked two each.

Josh Grabham was the standout for the Bombers, coming out on top in the battle with Chris Stewart.

“Stewart was still good in certain areas of the ground,” Bray said.

“Josh had 15-20 tackles and his second efforts were really good. He was an extra onballer.

“He was the first to leave the area and got him running the other way.”

Tommy Alkemade, Dylan Tarczon and Callum Williamson were other standouts.

Bray said it was one of their best team performances.

“There were 16 we could have had in the best,” he said. “That’s how good a team

Silver medal for Ben Hayes

Sunbury martial artist Ben Hayes’ first karate competition in 12 years yielded a silver medal at the Shukokai Karate Tournament in Dandenong on June 16.

The 34-year-old competed in the Adults Kata (form demonstration) development division for 3rd Kyu and above.

Hayes said the second-place finish “shocked” him.

“(It was) sort of unexpected really - I didn’t expect to place anything because it’s been a massive lapse since I stopped competing in tournaments,” he said.

Hayes took a back seat from karate around 12 years ago after accidentally injuring a teammate and friend. Then COVID came along, but the fire reignited when karate was included in the Tokyo Olympics.

Hayes’ father and grandfather were martial artists and that, combined with watching the Olympics during lockdown, got him back into training.

“They just gave me the right push to say ‘you know, I think I want to get back into this and try it again’,” he said.

“Maybe not for sparring or Kumite, but certainly at least for doing Kata demonstration.”

performance it was.

“We’ve been after the team game all year but we haven’t got and been a bit clunky. It’s starting to come together.”

The Bombers now sit a game clear on top of the ladder after 10 rounds.

This week the Bombers face Kyneton which upset Romsey in their clash, 8.15 (63)-8.10 (58).

The game was a close one all day with less than a goal separating the two teams at all the breaks.

For many of the Bombers it will be their first time playing at Kyneton Showgrounds.

“We went up in round one and it was the first time I had been there,” Bray said.

In other results, Lancefield fell just short of its first win of the season, losing to Melton Centrals.

In the battle of the bottom teams, Centrals got their second win of the season, winning 5.5 (35)-5.3 (33).

Diggers Rest was too good for Woodend-Hesket in their clash, winning 10.11 (71)-8.5 (53).

What makes Hayes’ silver medal special is that he trained in a different karate style (Goju Kensha) than his tournament opponents (Shukokai).

“I don’t train in the Shukokai Shotokan style of karate, but this was an open event to anyone,” he said.

“So I think what made it shocking was the fact that I placed second and I’m actually not someone who practises that style of karate.”

Hayes’ local club is Goju-Ryu Australia and trains on Wednesday evenings at Our Lady of Mt Carmel Primary School in Sunbury from 7pm.

“I’ve been going there for years and my dad’s been at that club since he was about 25 years old or so back then in the ‘80s,” he said.

“They’ve just been a really good club. The club is run by a man named Gary Jackson, who owns multiple Goju Kensha karate clubs around Victoria.”

Justin Flynn

Matt Hewson

Small forward Isaac Kako is one of five Calder Cannons players who will miss this weekend’s match against Northern Knights due to Vic Metro commitments. (Ljubica Vrankovic)

Joshua Grabham and Chris Stewart_(Ljubica Vrankovic)_414039_27