Pulling all the right strings
Artists from Sunbury inclusive theatre company, BoilOver Performance Ensemble, are getting ready to present their next production.
Titled, Heart Strings, the performance is inspired by the artists’ own relationship experiences and explores the themes of courage and risk.
The performance represents the topic of love through the ‘red thread of fate’ –the theory that we are all connected to the people we are destined to meet.
BoilOver, a program offered through Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health, is open to anyone over the age of 18 who has an interest in performing arts and can be accessed through an NDIS plan.
Ceative producer Carmen Maddison said the program helps participants to gain performing arts skills and experience. “Our artists get the opportunity to develop their skills and their confidence each week. They work alongside other circus and acrobatic professionals who help push their boundaries of artistic expression as well as build their strength and flexibility.” It will be performed at the Bowery Theatre, St Albans, from July 18–20. Details: www.creativebrimbank.com. au/heart-strings
High mental health need
By Laura Michell
Hume is one of poorest ranked municipalities for mental health, according to a new report on the mental health needs of Melbourne’s northern and western suburbs.
The North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network (NWMPHN) Mental Health – Health Needs Assessment report examined the mental health and care needs of the 1.9 million people living in the network’s 3200 square-kilometre catchment, which comprises 13 local government areas, including Hume and the Macedon Range.
Accordingtothereport,Humehasoneofthe highest levels of mental health need, alongside Brimbank and Wyndham.
The report stated that Hume experienced social disadvantage across multiple indicators,
specifically housing stress and low individual and household income, which can have negative consequences on mental health and wellbeing.
“Above average rates of [emergency department]presentationsandhospitalisations due to suicidal ideation highlight there are complex mental health needs in the population requiring tailored intervention,” the report stated. “Hume also benchmarks below Victorian state averages in multiple risk factors that can affect mental health and increase need. Specifically, there are a high proportion of children who are developmentally vulnerable, high levels of family violence and a large proportion of adults who are living with obesity.”
The report found there was a need for targeted services that cater to the varying
and unique needs of the Hume community, including the area’s younger age profile and cultural diversity.
Macedon Ranges residents were found to be atgreaterriskofmentalhealthconditionsgiven the region’s greater daily alcohol consumption and high prevalence of combined chronic health conditions.
“Bipolar disorder is a notable condition of concern in Macedon Ranges with high rates of GP diagnoses and hospitalisations,” the reportstated.“Themortalityrateofsuicideand self-inflicted injury was also noted, surpassing the Victorian average indicating a need for tailored support for complex and severe mental health outcomes.”
The report synthesised data from various sources such as the Australian Bureau of Statisticscensus,mentalhealth-relatedhospital
admissions and emergency department presentations, general practice mental health diagnoses, demand for appointments and community health service use and demand. It also included detailed insights from conversations with more than 170 people, including community members with living experience of mental health issues, carers and representatives from 68 health care organisations.
NWMPHN service development and reform executive director Jag Dhaliwal said the report was a key tool in understanding where mental health services are most needed.
“It allows us, with the broader health care sector, to allocate resources more efficiently and economically, delivering better care to the people who need it, and driving value for taxpayer money at the same time,” he said.
BoilOver Performance Ensemble artists Connor, Andrew and Sarah, with creative arts assistants Jacquelyn Hughes and Karen Cleur. (Damjan Janevski)
Stage one of precinct
By Oscar Parry
A state government minister and Macedon MP visited the Macedon Ranges Regional Sports Precinct to announce the completion of stage one of its construction.
Community Sport Minister Ros Spence, Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas, and representatives from Macedon Ranges council visited the precinct in New Gisborne to announce the completion of the first stage of construction.
Theover-$29millionfirststagehasdelivered indoor and outdoor facilities, including a multi-sport stadium with three courts and a show court and a new football oval with an electronic sign board.
A new public park, more than three
times the size of the MCG, was built around the precinct, which includes open spaces, gardens, a wetland, outdoor fitness equipment, barbecue areas, a playground, and a track for walking and bike riding.
MsSpencesaidtheprecinctwillbenefitlocal sport, which is an “integral part of our local communities”.
“This new precinct will be a major boost to more than 3,300 local sport participants and the region more broadly with a range of sports clubs and community programs set to benefit,”
Ms Spence said.
For the first stage, the state government funded$11.6millionunderLocalSportsGrant and $3.2 million under the Growing Suburbs Fund, Macedon Ranges Council funded $14.6 million, Melbourne Water funded $377,590
under the Liveable Communities Liveable Waterways program, AFL Victoria funded $100,000.
Macedon Ranges mayor Annete Death said that the project was the largest capital works project ever undertaken by the council.
“The need for more indoor and outdoor recreational facilities in the region has long been identified in our strategies, so we’re absolutely delighted to finally have a new state-of-the-art facility that will benefit our community for generations to come,” Cr Death said.
The second stage, which is set to begin in early 2025, will include the construction of an additional three courts, more amenities, another AFL/cricket oval, and two outdoor sports courts.
Water bill cost to increase
A small increase in water bills is on its way for Hume and Macedon Ranges residents, as The Essential Services Commission has released their final decision on Greater Western Water’s (GWW) price submission, which is now in effect.
Typical annual water and sewerage bills for residential owner-occupier customers will increase by a small amount, but below the rate of inflation. For 2024-25, average annual bills will rise $35 in the western region, which includes the Macedon Ranges and Sunbury.
Ongoing cost of living pressures drove a strong commitment to keep bills stable.
GWW managing director Maree Lang said the organisation was committed to getting the best for the west, ensuring sustainable and resilient water services for all customers.
“We are investing $1.69 billion in infrastructure and technology to service booming populations and rapid growth in Melbourne’s central and western regions,” she said. “Treatment plant upgrades will improve waterway health in the Werribee and Maribyrnong catchments,supportingourcommitment to heal and care for country.
“We are also pleased to see the ESC support our stormwater harvesting fund, which provides alternative water for public open green spaces. Our community was strongly in favour of this work, which saves precious drinking water and improves liveability.”
Put hands up to help group
The Macedon Ranges Suicide Prevention Action Group (MR SPAG) is calling out for new volunteers with lived experience for a new community-led initiative.
MR SPAG’s ‘Community-Led Safe Space’ will pair volunteers who have lived experience with Macedon Ranges residents who are experiencing emotional distress or suicidal ideation.
Volunteers will include people who have experiencedsuicidalideationthemselves,cared for someone close to them in suicidal crisis, or have experienced suicide bereavement from a friend or family member.
The program has been funded and facilitated by lived experience of suicide organisation Roses in the Ocean, who will provide self-paced online training to volunteers and ongoing training, support, and debriefing opportunities.
MR SPAG acting chairperson and volunteer Sarah Lungu said that the organisation is
“hopingtobridgethatgapbetweenpresentation at emergency and building safe communities.”
“I’m absolutely thrilled to be a part of it because this is something I’ve wanted to do for four years now since I first joined MR SPAG. It wassomethingIfeltthatIneeded,anditwasn’t available, so this has been a massive passion of mine to get up and running,” Ms Lungu said.
“The idea was formed years ago, but having funds, volunteers, the right place, support behind you – that’s taken a very long time … to be implemented and we were just lucky that Roses in the Ocean stepped in.”
MsLungusaidthatthepeersupportprogram has already received expressions of interest.
“That’s the beautiful thing about Sunbury and Macedon Ranges, is that everyone wants to help and whether it’s a lived or living experience, everyone wants to put their hand up to help,” she said.
Details: www.mrspag.com.au
Oscar Parry
Community Sport Minister
Ros Spence, Macedon Ranges mayor Annette Death, and Macedon MP
Mary-Anne Thomas with the stage one completion plaque. (Supplied)
Macedon Ranges Suicide Prevention Action Group volunteers Sarah Lungu, Caitlin Edgar, Fiona Lawford and Chad Snyder. (Damjan Janevski) 416986_01
DISTRIBUTION
Principal remembered
Tributes have flowed for a former school principal who died after falling through a skylight while working at St Margaret Mary’s School, Spotswood.
Paul Hogan is believed to have been retrieving balls from the roof when he fell through a skylight more than three metres to the concrete ground below about 2.30pm on June 28.
The 61-year-old was taken to hospital with critical head injuries, where he died on Friday.
WorkSafe is investigating.
Mr Hogan devoted his career to catholic education. His first role was in a classroom and he taught at many schools in Melbourne’s north-west. He became principal at Our Lady of Mount Carmel School, Sunbury, in 2009. In 2016, he was appointed principal at St Mary’s School in Ascot Vale, until his retirement six years later in 2022.
Mr Hogan continued working as a part-time and casual relief teacher at St Anne’s School, Sunbury, St Mary’s School, Ascot Vale, and St Margaret Mary’s School, Spotswood.
The Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools (MACS) released a statement saying the community is deeply saddened by Mr Hogan’s death.
MACS executive director, Dr Edward Simons, said Mr Hogan was a highly regarded educator and leader.
“WeextendoursincerecondolencestoPaul’s family, friends and colleagues, and we hold all of those impacted in our hearts and prayers,” he said. ‘Paul was a friend and mentor to many inourMACScommunity,andhewillbedearly missed. May perpetual light shine upon him and may he rest in peace.
Community members and sporting clubs from across Sunbury and the north-west pay tribute to him.
Rupertswood Football Club said he was a much loved person at the club as an umpire for
Paul Hogan. (Supplied)
FIDA and reserves teams. “Paul spent many hours helping team managers and our assistant coaches. An amazing mentor to our juniors during 2014-2018 seasons, as well as helping out around the club and volunteering his time when he could.”
InapageforpastOurLadyofMountCarmel School students and teachers, people spoke about Mr Hogan being an amazing principal and “wonderful understanding person” and a “genuine nice person”.
St Margaret Mary’s School’s sister school, Sacred Heart Catholic Primary School, Newport, also paid tribute.
“On behalf of the Sacred Heart school community, I extend our deepest sympathies to our sister parish school, St Margaret Mary’s Primary School, on the sudden passing of your colleague, Paul Hogan,” they said in a statement.
“We especially pray for Colleen McCambridge, [the] SMM principal and dear friendofPaul’s,thestaffandallthoseimpacted by Paul’s passing. We are thinking of you and sending strength and comfort at this difficult time.”
Briefs
Police investigate Kyneton death Police are investigating the circumstances around the death of a man in Kyneton. Police visited a property in Windridge Way about 2.30pm on Tuesday, July 2, as part of an investigation. A 27-year-old Kyneton man was arrested at the address, and shortly after, appeared unwell and became unresponsive. Police immediately called for medical assistance and performed CPR on the man, however, he was unable to be revived. At this early stage, police report that it appears the man may have ingested a substance. As a result, five police officers who attended the scene were also taken to hospital as a precaution.
New ways to clean up Hume Hume residents will find it easier to get rid of rubbish that cannot go in their household bin. From July 1, tip passes were phased out and new vouchers will be brought in for residents to use for three different services. Households will have access to five vouchers that can be used to drop off waste, book a hard waste collection or use a newly implemented service, bundled branch collections, which will allow locals to book kerbside pick-ups of branches. Existing tip passes and hard waste bookings will be honoured until their expiry date of September 30, 2024.
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Engineered stone ban ‘too late’
By Matthew Younan
A state government ban on the manufacturing, supply and installation of engineered stone benchtops is “too little, too late”, according to the family of a western suburbs man battling silicosis. The government introduced the ban on July 1, to prevent workers from being exposed to deadly silicosis.
The family of Fawzy Tawadros has been calling on the government to act for years.
Beshoy Tawadros said his dad is battling silicosis, an incurable disease meaning he must fight for every single breath he takes.
‘‘ Specialists told me, “I’m looking good on the outside but inside I am cooked”
’’
- Fawzy Tawadros
He has also been diagnosed with a much rarer condition, scleroderma or systemic sclerosis which is scarring fibrosis throughout the whole body, not just the lungs.
Both conditions are a result of working with engineered stone.
Beshoy said it was tough seeing his dad suffering.
“Dad’s had his heart impacted, his lungs, his bowel, his colon, his oesophagus, his skin, his eyes and mouth, so it’s a very far reaching and devastating disease. And there’s no cure for it,” he said.
“He has pulmonary hypertension and scarring in his lungs both caused from silicosis and scleroderma, so he has a double whammy in that aspect.
“Dad’s digestive system doesn’t work from his oesophagus to his bowels.
“He is on constant medications to try and
help him, he’s lost his teeth and had several dental treatments.
“He is now on oxygen as well due to the damage on his lungs due to exertion. He’s had five heart procedures and a pacemaker installed.
“What dad is going through is very life changing. One day he was fine and then the next day, he was hospitalised for months.
Eileen turns 100
Sunbury local Eileen Palser celebrated her 100thbirthdaylastweek,enjoyingalunchand family gathering.
Turning 100 on Tuesday, July 2, Eileen’s family and friends marked the occasion with luncheon held by The Ladies Probus Club of Sunbury on July 3 and a family celebration at the Ballcourt Hotel on July 6.
She received a letter and certificates from a range of officials, including King Charles, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Premier Jactina Allan.
Ms Palser has lived an eventful life across several countries.
Born in 1924 in Belfast, Ireland, she was the second oldest of 10 children.
HerfamilyplannedtomovetoNewZealand, but ended up stranded in Birmingham, England, due to World War II.
Birmingham became her home, where she and her husband Arthur lived with five children.
She moved to Sunbury with her husband Arthur while in her 70s to be closer to family, where her daughters Lisa, Lee and Louise were living at the time.
Ms Palser said it is important to enjoy each moment.
“My advice to young people is to enjoy every day and look after one another,” she said.
Daughter Lisa Wilkinson said that Ms Palser is an active and sociable person.
“She just loves life and her life here in Australia with family,” Ms Wilkinson said.
“She’s been very sociable in the community. She joined the Probus, she still goes to ‘Fit as a Fiddle’ classes on Tuesdays and chair yoga classes on Thursdays. She’s very fit!”
Ladies Probus Club of Sunbury newsletter editor Frances Caruso said Eileen is a “remarkable lady” and that the club was thrilled to share the celebrations with her at the Sunbury Social Club.
“The only thing that hasn’t been impacted is his kidneys, liver and brain – essentially everything else is effected. His whole body is effected.”
Fawzy said he was suffering for years before doctors diagnosed him.
“From the early 2000s, I suffered symptoms. SometimesIcouldn’teatbecausemyheartburn was too bad. My teeth all came loose and one
by one, I lost them all,” he said. “I was feeling constantly tired, fatigued very quickly, had a runny nose badly. My hands and legs felt cold. My fingers and hands were really painful.”
In 2016, Fawzy was diagnosed with scleroderma after having shortness of breath and heart issues.
In 2019, the then 59-year-old collapsed while out with his family. Fawzy’s family rushed him to hospital.
AfterbeingreleasedfromFootscrayHospital the next morning, Beshoy took his father to The Alfred where he stayed for more than five weeks while the scleroderma was investigated.
The 64-year-old said he continues to suffer.
“I’ve done five operations on my fingers in the past 12 months, they remove excessive calcium – they had to cut really deep to remove it,” he said.
The stonemason’s lungs have also been destroyed by tiny toxic dust particles
“It’s a terrible disease,” Fawzy said.
“Specialists told me, “I’m looking good on the outside but inside I am cooked.”
“Icouldn’tswallowfoodproperly.Ionlyhave onemealadaytoreducethepainbecauseevery time I eat, it is very painful.
“I take 38-42 tablets every single day.” He said the government’s decision will help younger tradies.
“Unfortunately, it’s too late for me.”
While welcoming the decision to ban the manufacturing, supply and installation of engineered stone, Beshoy said the government should have acted sooner.
“It’s about time they made this decision,” he said. “We had the asbestos epidemic, and it took them a long time to ban that. You would think we would learn from the past. But it also took a long time to ban the manufacturing, installation and fabrication of engineered stone.”
Fawzy Tawadros has silicosis as result of working with engineered stone. (Damjan Janevski) 417262_01
Oscar Parry
Ms Palser with her congratulatory letter from King Charles. (Supplied)
A solo mum’s worst nightmare
By Jennifer Pittorino
Solo mother Michelle Galea’s worst nightmare is her son losing his only parent. In September last year, she was forced to confront that fear after being diagnosed with breast cancer.
The mother was 49 when she discovered a pea-sized lump while scratching her breast one morning.
She said she knew immediately that something was wrong.
She tried to make a breast screen appointment but was advised to see her GP instead because of the lump.
“I could tell it was positive, you can tell by the way people talk to you,” Michelle said. It took a week for Michelle to get the results, which filled her with anxiety.
When Michelle heard that she had breast cancer, she began to worry about her son, Charlie.
“Myfirstthoughtswenttomyson,”Michelle said. “Who would look after my child if I died? What would happen to him? Who would care for him?
“Being a solo mother, these thoughts come into our minds earlier than most two parent families.”
According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, one in 57 Australians are diagnosed with breast cancer every single day, equating to over 20,000 Australians each year. “I was quite shocked, I didn’t think I would
beinthatpositiontobequitehonest,”Michelle said. “I thought it was something that happens to everyone else.”
The next several months were filled with scans, visits to a surgeon, and surgery to remove the cancer.
“I had the lump removed and I also had some lymph nodes removed out of my arm,”
Michelle said
“Because they took some lymph nodes out , I had a lot of problems with my arm swelling.”
After surgery, Michelle met with her oncologist to work out the next steps.
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“The surgeon organised an MRI done on both breasts to check if it was anywhere else,” she said. “After it is removed, that is when you see the oncologist who works out your plan of action.”
Michelle’s oncologist recommended a test, known as an Oncotype DX test, which determines whether further treatment is needed.
Michelle said the test isn’t funded in Australia and her test needed to be sent to the US for analysis. It recommended she start chemotherapy.
“Unfortunately to do that test, it’s $5000 out of pocket, Medicare does not fund it at all,” she said.
“I reckon I am close to $20,000 out of pocket because I went private,” she said. “My surgeon alone was $5000 out of pocket. That is just one bill. I haven’t even added it all up.”
Michelle underwent chemotherapy and radiation and is battling ongoing problems with arms due to the lymph node removal.
“I had to see a special physio twice a week, and again that is not funded by the government,” she said.
“I couldn’t afford that. The average person couldn’t afford it. We are talking about $150 each time you go.
“The government only gives you six sessions subsidised through a care plan.”
With the support of her parents, who lent her money for several tests, and the support of her siblings who attended her appointments with her, Michelle has come out on the other side.
“I am on hormone treatment now, which is a tablet which I take everyday. I am on that for [the next] 10 years,” she said.
In the midst of her battle, Michelle was also running a nationwide support group she started in 2013, called Australian Solo Mothers by Choice. It has more than 3700 members across the country.
“It was hard especially as a solo mother, when you get diagnosed with something like that it takes a couple of weeks for you to get your head around it,” she said.
“Luckily, I have created a great village for my son. I have made sure he is connected and loved by family who will care for him, and most importantly, I know he will feel safe and not scared to live with them.
“So I know my village will be there for my son in case I die.”
Breast cancer service grows
Northern Imaging Victoria, part of Northern Health, has expanded its breast imaging serviceswithateamofsevenbreastradiologists and dedicated mammography technologists.
It has also instituted a new Women’s Imaging Fellowship in Radiology, which will further contribute to the team’s expertise and knowledge.
Northern Imaging has introduced three specialised services: Contrast-Enhanced Mammography, Stereotactic Breast Biopsy and MRI Breast Biopsy.
This expansion has resulted in a fully comprehensive breast imaging service at Northern Health.
According to Northern Imaging Victoria, Contrast-Enhanced Mammography (CEM) is a cutting-edge technique that improves cancer identification.
Using a contrast agent, CEM enhances the visibility of abnormalities that may not be clearly visible on a standard mammogram. This technology increases breast cancer detectionratesandprovidesbetterinformation for evaluation and treatment planning. Importantly, CEM offers cost-effectiveness and a shorter procedure time than MRI scans.
Northern Imaging Victoria has enhanced biopsy procedures with 3D Tomosynthesis guided Stereotactic Breast Biopsies.
This less invasive alternative to surgical biopsy is used when a small growth or an area of calcifications is detected on a mammogram, which requires further investigation.
Thecapabilitytoperform3Dtomosynthesisguided stereotactic biopsies increases the accuracy of the procedure.
MRI-Guided Breast Biopsy is another advanced procedure now available.
This minimally invasive technique precisely targets suspicious areas identified on breast MRI for diagnosis, reducing patients’ discomfort and recovery time.
Northern Imaging Victoria is one of the few providers of this highly specialised service in Victoria.
Director of imaging services, associate professor Terry Kok said, “We now offer a fully comprehensive breast imaging service that few health services can match. I am proud of our team for pioneering these advances in the north.”
Chief medical officer associate professor Wanda Stelmach praised the partnership between Northern Imaging Victoria and Northern Health Breast Unit.
“Itisamazingtobeabletoprovideabsolutely first-class care to the women in the north of Melbourne and along the northern rural corridor,” Ms Stelmach said.
Associate professor Terry Kok, Dr Ming Joe Lim, associate professor Wanda Stelmach, Dr Judy Kuo and head of breast surgical unit Michael Issac. (Supplied)
Solo mother Michelle Galea was diagnosed with breast cancer last year. (Damjan Janevski) 412955_01
Boost to women’s health hubs
Women in Melbourne’s north-west will have improved access to sexual and reproductive health, following the announcement of four healthcare hubs in the region.
The women’s sexual and reproductive health hubs will be established in Kyneton, Melton, Wyndham Vale and Broadmeadows and will join Victoria’s network of 20 women’s healthcare hubs across the state that are providing free or low-cost care including contraception, medical abortion, referral for surgical abortion and sexual health testing and treatment.
The Kyneton hub will be operated by Central Highlands Rural Health, while Western Health will operate the Melton hub and IPC Health will run the Wyndham Vale hub. DPV Health will operate the
Broadmeadows hub.
Thestategovernmentsaidthehublocations were selected following extensive sector consultation and are expected to help at least 4000 more girls and women access sexual and reproductive health services every year.
Part of a $153 million women’s health package, the hubs will transform the way women’s health issues are treated – breaking down barriers women and girls face in accessing affordable and comprehensive care, the government said.
Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas said the hubs would help women to feel safe and supported when accessing the care they need, including medical and surgical abortion
The workforce supporting the hubs will also benefit from the government’s Women’s
Health Scholarship program, helping to address existing skills and knowledge shortages when it comes to women’s health.
More than 100 scholarships will be delivered, offering chances to upskill in areas like IUD insertion, sexual and reproductive health, pelvic physio training, menopause and Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
The scholarships will also fund training to promote cultural safety and remove existing barriers for First Nations women, women from migrant and refugee backgrounds and LGBTIQA+ communities.
Premier Jacinta Allan said the hubs would help to bridge the gender health gap.
“With these hubs, we’ll help make sure more women can get the affordable and accessible care they need,” she said.
Women’s health issues must be a priority: GPs
GPs are calling for greater action to better address women’s health issues.
It follows the release of the Royal Australian College of GPs (RACGP) guidelines for preventive activities in general practice.
Knownas‘theRedBook’,theguidelineswere first published in 1989 and supports preventive activities in general practice.
The latest edition strongly focuses on women’s health issues, including new content on pregnancy, conception, perinatal mental health and post-menopause care.
RACGP president Dr Nicole Higgins welcomed the release of the guidelines and called for action.
“On the women’s health front, Australia has come a long way, but we also have a long way to go,” she said.
“As a special adviser to the Albanese Government’s National Women’s Health
AdvisoryCouncilandaGP…addressinghealth inequalities for women and girls in Australia is something I’m passionate about. There are so many areas where we can and should do better.
“Too many women are still suffering severe effects from endometriosis and not being properly listened to, let alone given the care theyneed.Changemusthappennow,toomany girls and women are missing out.”
RedBookexecutivecommitteechairDanielle Mazza said the latest edition contained key guidance on women’s health issues.
“We want all pregnant women to have their first antenatal visit within the first 10 weeks of pregnancy. Regular antenatal care that starts early in the pregnancy is associated with better
maternal health and positive outcomes for the child. Unfortunately, just over 20 per cent of women don’t access antenatal care in their first trimester, and mothers are more likely to fall into this category if they are younger than 20 yearsofage,smokeduringpregnancy,useillicit substances or live remotely. So, compared to most countries around the world we are doing well, but we still have room for improvement,” Professor Mazza said.
“Our Red Book contains useful guidance for GPs conducting this care, including screening formentalhealthconcerns,smokingstatusand exposure to second-hand smoke, and clinical risk factors for pre-eclampsia, a potentially dangerous complication characterised by high blood pressure.”
Professor Danielle Mazza and Assistant Health Minister Ged Kearney. (Supplied)
Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas and Premier Jacinta Allan. (Supplied)
Protecting pollinators
For a group of Macedon Ranges residents, beekeeping is more than a hobby. The members of the Woodend Bee-Friendly Society are committed to providing the best environment for their bees while also protecting the environment. Oscar Parry spoke to beekeepers to find out more about the role pollinators play.
Beekeeping is more than a hobby –affectionately known as ‘the littlest livestock’, beekeepers are committed to providing the best environment for their bees. Considering the important role pollinators play, including native bees, beekeepers are searching for ways to achieve the most sustainable practices.
TheWoodendBee-FriendlySociety,anaction group of the Macedon Ranges Sustainability Group, holds monthly meetings for beekeepers to learn from each other and provides several beekeeping courses.
Woodend Bee-Friendly Society action group lead Tino Corsetti said the group’s focus is to promote the best care and hive practices for honey bees, and create a sense of community among keepers in the region.
‘‘ It brings a connection to the natural environment in ways that few other hobbies do ’’
- Tino Corsetti
“The name of our club – the Woodend Bee Friendly Society – is somewhat light-hearted, but at its core, there is a mission we take quite seriously – we want to be friendly to bees and we want to be friendly to each other,” he said.
“Being friendly to our bees means developing the knowledge and skills within our membership so that they can monitor the health and wellbeing of their bees. This includes things like monitoring bee nutrition and, when necessary, providing supplemental feed. It also includes regular hive inspections to check for symptoms of weakness, disease or pests.”
Along with caring for their honey bees, which play an important role in pollination for agriculture, the group also recognises and educates keepers about the potential environmental threats that escaped honey bees can pose.
“Swarm management is a subset of sustainable beekeeping. A beekeeper is responsible for managing their hives to try and prevent swarming. If and when swarms do occur, the beekeeper is responsible for trying to capture and rehome that swarm,” Tino said.
“By the late 1800s, reports indicate that feral honey bee colonies had become endemic in the Australian bush. Feral colonies occupy natural spaces, such as hollow tree trunks, that might otherwise provide a home to native mammals or birds. By working to control swarms from managed apiaries, beekeepers can help limit the number of new feral colonies.”
Because of this, Tino said that responsible beekeeping requires planning and commitment.
“Ifyoudecidetogoon[holiday]inthespring,
summer or autumn for more than two weeks, you would need to think about who is going to inspect your hives while you are away. What happens if your bees swarm while you’re on vacation? Do you have someone who can deal with that situation in a safe and responsible manner?”
Despite these considerations, Tino said the hobby is active and engaging for participants, promoting an appreciation for bees and their colonies.
“It brings a connection to the natural environment in ways that few other hobbies do,” he said. “Beekeepers come to appreciate how sophisticated and advanced honey bee colonies are at responding to their natural environment and being able to thrive against adversity.”
In the Macedon Ranges, Tino said beekeeping comes with challenges, especially due to the cold climate.
“Because of our cold winters and annual variations in the eucalypt flowering cycles, beekeepingisquitechallengingintheMacedon Ranges,” he said.
“The beekeeper needs to understand the role of genetics from different lines and races of queen bee, the availability of sunshine throughout the day and, most importantly, the cycle of plant and tree flowering … to ensure thatbeeshaveaccesstohighqualitynectarand pollen in spring, summer and autumn.”
Thesocietyalsoaimstoeducatememberson
native bees and conservation, where it will be hosting a talk in October on the topic.
Ecologist and native bee researcher Clancy Lester said because native bees play a crucial role in pollinating flora, it is important to consider the environment where you keep honey bees.
“If you’re in an area where there are no limitations with pollen, so say you’re in an area with lots of different flowering plants within a close proximity, then the honey bees won’t compete as heavily for resources with native bees,” Clancy said.
In Australia, there are more than 2000 species of native bees, and they play an especially important role in pollinating the country’s wildflowers and native plants.
On Australian charity, The Wheen Bee Foundation’s website, it reports that “very few of Australia’s 2000 native bee species have been investigated … for their potential contribution to Australian agriculture,“ with honey bees being the chosen pollinator for agriculture-related purposes.
Clancysaidinsectnumbers,includingnative bees, are declining globally due to factors like unregulated or unrestricted pesticide use, urbanisation, and climate change with its effects on plant flowering times.
He said one of the most effective ways to help native bees at home is to plant pollinator-friendly and indigenous flower gardens.
“There are lots of resources, like … the Wheen Bee Powerful Pollinator Planting Guide, and there’s … one for the volcanic plains in [the] west of Melbourne” Clancy also said that building ‘native bee hotels’ is a way of helping pollinators in your own backyard – with Clancy himself creating guides on how to build these at home.
He recommends using native and untreated hardwood to simulate native bees’ natural habitat of gumtrees, banksias, and wattles, and using reeds, bamboo, and pithy stems to create habitat for cavity nesting bees.
Clancy said that for efficient pollination, having a diversity of bee species pollinate a flower is most effective.
“If you have 10 different species of pollinator pollinating a flower, that’s going to be more efficient and more effective pollination than if you had 10 visits of the same bee species” With some native plants, such as kangaroo apples and flax lilies, requiring buzz pollination,creatinghabitatfornativebeescan have broad environmental benefits.
“There are species of plants in Australia … that are buzz pollinated … and this is a thing thatonlynativebeescandothroughsonication – when they vibrate their flight muscles really fast without actually flying.”
Clancy said whether you are a beekeeper withhoneybeesoryoucreatehabitatfornative bees in your backyard – both are ways for people to observe pollinators at work.
Members of the Woodend Bee-Friendly Society, including action group lead Tino Corsetti (left). (Pictures: Supplied)
Time for Meta to face the music
By Andrew Schreyer, Country Press Australia president
Just last month, the US Surgeon General called for social media to have warnings attached to it over mental health concerns for users.
It’s one of the great paradoxes of our time that rather than tackle unacceptable elements and accept responsibility for the damage caused by providing the habitat for such scornful matter, Meta has instead opted to diminish the presence of the real news and of truth by continually adjusting its algorithms and rendering public interest news content more and more difficult to find.
The federal government has the News Media Bargaining Code at its disposal, a mechanism established to ensure social media platforms can be held to account and that media organisationsaretreatedfairlyintheirdealings with the social media giants.
Should the government designate Meta under the code, the company is likely to block news sites from its platforms just as it has done in Canada. And in that country, it’s been regional and rural publishers who have been negatively impacted the most.
Inthisinstanceweencouragethegovernment to insert a ‘must carry news’ clause in the code forcing them to negotiate with publishers or impose a 20 per cent tax on Meta’s Australian revenue.
Proceeds from the tax can be used for mental health programs to assist young people negatively impacted by social media, and a component distributed to publishers as compensation for Meta’s use of their content.
If Meta refuses, they should be banned from Australia.
Meta is a publisher just like our members; however, their platforms are not subject to laws including defamation and contempt of court,
editorialstandardsandregulatoryframeworks. If they were, I would not need to write this opinion piece and there would be a lot less social harm and mental health issues in our community today.
Meta’s Facebook has little, if any, checking mechanism prior to content and comments being published. Its algorithms serve up
Warming winter donation
A Hume company will be donating 30,000 essential clothing items to vulnerable Australians this winter.
Underworks and Foodbank Victoria have partnered with charities Thread Together, The SalvationArmyandTheGoodBoxtodistribute donations received as part of the I Give a Sock program.
The campaign will provide socks, underwear and thermal underlayers to Australians in need.
According to Underworks, more than 7000 people are sleeping rough in Australia and remain at risk of illness and even hypothermia.
prosper on Meta’s platforms takes things to another level.
We believe that as a corporate citizen, Meta has a responsibility to do what is right, just as we as publishers do. Meta’s commercialisation of the negativity it allows to fester on its platforms is a scourge upon that company and has created significant hardship and misery for many Australians.
To suit its narrative and justify its agenda, Meta claims its users don’t go to Facebook for news, however the University of Canberra’s Digital News Report: Australia 2024 released in June found that 49 per cent of Australian users of Facebook use it for news and one in four rely on it as their main source of news – our trusted, independent and professionally written news Meta no longer wants to pay for.
The digital news report shows this year, there was actually a surge among young people turning to social media to get news.
Sixty per cent of Gen Z say social media is their main source of news, a 17-percentage point increase on last year.
content based on popularity regardless of what may be appropriate for the audience. It has no transparent complaints process, is not held to account in any way and isn’t required to respond to complaints.
It’s one thing to rip billions of dollars out of our economy, but the social, mental and physical damage caused by what is allowed to
In line with the increase in the use of social media platforms for news, concern about what is real and what is fake on the internet has skyrocketed to 75 per cent. This is an increase of 11 percentage points in the past two years and echoes an increase in the global rise of six percentage points over the same period. It suits Meta to claim Australians don’t use the company’s platforms to read the news and for it to be allowed to continue to ride roughshod over our communities. But it suits the rest of us for Meta to be held to account.
Andrew Schreyer is the President of Country Press Australia, and publisher of the Warragul & Drouin Gazette.
YOUR NEW CAREER ... starts here
Star Weekly seeks an enthusiastic Full or Part Time sales executive to work across our print, digital, social and online platforms.
Star Weekly is an independently owned company which prides itself on its long history of community experience but also its investment in the future.
The successful applicant will need to possess good people skills to enable them to meet with local businesses to sell solutions through our advertising platforms to help promote their business.
“Warm clothes help to provide insulation and retain body heat, but they also help protect against harsh weather conditions.
“We know this from working with various charity partners and want to support those who need it most.”
According to Thread Together, one in eight adults and one in six children do not have access to adequate essential clothing.
Socks are some of the least donated items, despite being of great importance, as they prevent blisters, sores, as well as foot infection s and diseases, the charity said.
Max Westwood
UnderworkschiefexecutiveSamTodarosaid theimportanceofwarmclothingshouldnotbe overlooked, especially over the colder months. “Cold temperatures can be life-threatening, and those sleeping rough are particularly at risk of developing significant health issues,” he said.
Applicants will need their own reliable vehicle for which we will provide an allowance.
The position is salaried, plus we offer an open ended commission scheme.
Send your application letter and resume to: Advertising Sales Manager, Mandy Clark mandy.clark@starnewsgroup.com.au
Underworks workers Sammy Farani and Georgia Azzopardi packing socks. (Damjan Janevski) 416299_02
CPA executive director Peter Kennedy, committee chair Kate Thwaites MP and CPA president Andrew Schreyer. (Supplied)
Family’s historic ‘labour of love’
Nestled quietly amidst the western suburbs lies Overnewton Castle, a historic gem in Keilor celebrating its remarkable 175th anniversary. Hannah Hammoud discovers more about the castle’s rich past and ongoing journey as she chats with Emma Stott who grew up within its storied walls and now manages the castle.
Originally owned by William James Taylor, a visionary who immigrated from Glasgow, Scotland, Overnewton Castle has stood as a testament to his legacy.
Taylor’s masterpiece was originially commissioned a single-storey homestead on 13,000 acres of land in 1849 before it was transformed into a Scottish Baronial Castle in 1859 after Taylor returned from a trip abroad.
Taylor came to Australia in 1840 – five years after Melbourne’s founding in 1835 –from Scotland at the young age of 22. It took him and his family six months to arrive on Australian shores, bracing the elements on a tiny boat.
‘‘ As beautiful as she is, the house, she’s just a money pit ... It’s definitely a labour of love ’’ - Emma Stott
Taylor’s influence extends far beyond the castle’s walls, with landmarks like Taylors Lakes and Taylors Hill bearing his name, a nod to his pioneering efforts in irrigation and sheep farming.
Fast-forwardtotodayasEmmaStottreflects on her family’s connection to Overnewton Castle, which spans nearly five decades.
“Overnewton Castle is 175 years old which is exciting,” she said.
“The original owner was William James Taylor. When he was here he had 13,000 acres in 1849 and so that’s how Taylors Lakes and Taylors Hill got their name, because he irrigated the water from Taylors Lakes to Overnewton Castle so he could water his gardens.
“All the ‘Taylors’ you see in the Brimbank area are all based on William Taylor. He was a very clever man… he would farm sheep and send the wool back to England and Scotland. When he got to Keilor, he moved here when
he married his wife, then his family were here for 105 years. My family bought the house in 1975 – we’re just the third family to have ever owned Overnewton.”
Despiteitsgrandeur,Overnewtonremained a hidden treasure in the western suburbs until recent years. Emma describes it as a “hidden gem” known mainly to those seeking wedding venues or indulging in high tea amidst its lush surroundings.
Born shortly after her family’s acquisition of the property, Emma’s life intertwines with the castle’s history in a deeply personal way.
“In our 50 years of being here, when we got here the house was quite run down but my parents could see that it was beautiful but they knew it had a lot of work. There were 36 rooms in the house, as kids playing hide and seek was very fun especially if you were in trouble. Our parents, by the time they found us, they forgot why we were in trouble,” Emma said.
“We embraced sharing the life and legacy of William Taylor. I think the most important thing is to keep sharing history – the thing about history is if you don’t share it, it gets forgotten.
“We love sharing the history because it’s such an important time. William Taylor was known as the father of Keilor for all the things he implemented for Keilor whilst he was working as a councillor. It’s really easy to tell his story because it’s so positive.”
Emma’s parents, both doctors, dedicated themselves to restoring the castle to its former glory. The baton now sits in the careful hands of their daughter Emma, who said it is truly a labour of love to maintain and celebrate Overnewton’s heritage.
“We used to climb out windows and climb off the roof, we were quite naughty kids, five of us all up. Five kids growing up here with my Mum and Dad. Mum and Dad were both doctors. Mum liked Overnewton because she could still see patients while she had us kids close by,” Emma said.
“Being both doctors they had a bit of extra income to be able to put back into the restoration of the house. As beautiful as she is, the house, she’s just a money pit.
“We don’t profit here, every dollar we make we put back into restoration of the house, constantly maintaining 36 rooms of a 175 year old building. It’s definitely a labour of love.”
Emma and her family’s commitment extends beyond preservation, with historical tours, high teas, and Scottish events welcoming the community to share in Overnewton’s timeless charm.
“Wegetthesupportfromourlovelylocalsto help keep our business alive. Our little legacy is just to keep sharing the story and keeping William Taylor happy. We love opening our doors for people to come and share in the beautiful history,” Emma said.
“We’re on four and a half acres of beautiful manicured greens with probably one of the oldest trees in Brimbank, a 175 year old oak tree, the heritage is beautiful. We just love opening up the castle.”
To discover more about Overnewton Castle visit: https://www.overnewtoncastle.com.au/
Decades of history lie behind the doors of Overnewton Castle. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 397022
Emma Stott and Emily Garretto stand outside the 175 year old Overnewton Castle.
School holiday fun in Woodend
Woodend Neighbourhood House hosted several school holiday programs, including an air dry clay workshop, bucket drumming, West African drumming, and yoga.
Star Weekly’s Damjan Janevski captured some of the fun at one of its drama workshops on Wednesday, July 3, hosted by Storyboard Drama Studios.
Frankie, 9, enjoying the workshop.
Jacob, 9, taking part in some of the action.
Riley, 10, in motion.
The workshop was led by drama teacher Paul Canlan.
This event was the morning session of the day’s two drama workshop school holiday programs. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 417089
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
One Voice Sunbury
The With One Voice (WOV) Sunbury community choir has an open night coming up on Tuesday, July 30 , with performances and a sing-along. After our performance, the group will serve a light supper during its social hour. This event is open all ages and abilities, with or without singing experience. The WOV Sunbury community choir is changing the world one voice at a time by providing an opportunity for people to meet and experience the joy of singing, often making friends through the shared experiences of singing and performing; although performing is not required. One Voice Sunbury community choir rehearses each Tuesday, from 6.30pm, at Goonawarra Neighbourhood House. A fun and welcoming choir, new members are welcome – just join in on the fun.
■ sunbury@withonevoice.org.au
Bulla Hill Railway
Bulla Hill Railway is hosting a ‘Bring your Dinosaur Along Day’ on Sunday, July 21. There will be a sale of pre-loved dinosaurs and Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends items. Dinosaurs ride free on the day. We may even have some dinosaurs that roam around! We would love to see you all there. The event will be held at Bulla Hill Railway, 15 Green Street, Bulla. Rides will run between 11am and 4pm (the last train leaves the station at 3.45pm). Tickets can be bought on the day (EFTPOS available) for $5 per person over 12 months of age.
■ bullahillrailway.org.au
Sunbury Neighbourhood House
Sunbury Neighbourhood House are hosting free holiday drop-in groups, including music and sing-along, guitar, cuppa sessions, ‘Chai and Chat’ sessions, and a ‘Crafternoon’. The next Drop in Wednesday will be on July 10 from 9am–3pm at Sunbury Neighbourhood House, 531 Elizabeth Drive, Sunbury. Sessions will run at various times.
■ www.sunburyhouse.com.au
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
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
Hume Men’s Shed
The Hume Men’s Shed (Sunbury) is a non for profit organisation, meeting every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings at 158 Evans Street, Sunbury. The group caters for men be it carpentry, welding, metal work, gardening or just to chat.
■ sunburymensshed.com or 0438 677 425
LGBTIQ Social Club
The Sunbury and Surrounds LGBTIQ Social Club has an ongoing catch up every
This
third Saturday at the Brown Cow Cafe in Rosenthal at 1pm. They can also be found on Facebook where they have chats, discussions and other events advertised.
■ https://shorturl.at/jtAO1
Sunbury Woodworkers Club
Join the Sunbury Woodworkers Club to learn woodturning. No experience or tools required. Our club is a welcoming environment open to men and women who wish to learn. Meetings for new guests are held on the third Wednesday of every month at 7.30pm at Circular drive, Jackson’s Hill, Sunbury. Facebook: Sunbury Woodworkers Club.
■ Anita, 0417 402 795
VIEW Club
Sunbury-Macedon Ranges VIEW Club is a friendly women’s organisation and a valued part of The Smith Family. We meet on the third Friday of each month at 11am at Club Sunbury, Riddell Road, Sunbury. New members warmly welcome
■ Lee-anne, 0403 047 909
Sunbury Art Society
The Sunbury Art Society meets every Friday and Saturday, from 10am–3pm, at the Boilerhouse, Jacksons Hill, to paint or draw over a cuppa with other like minded people. New members welcome.
■ Ken, 0407 062 568 or Yvonne, 0429 994 828
Yoga in Sunbury
Yoga classes at Sunbury Neighbourhood House focus on supporting participants to slow down and move well. Special attention is given to mindful awareness of movement that builds strength in a healthy and safe way, Monday mornings, Thursday evenings and Friday mornings
■ www.sunburyhouse.com.au or 9740 6978
Art group
The Woodend Art Group holds classes and workshops in the studios in the Woodend railway station complex. It also has a social Tuesday where members and interested people can come along in the morning, have a coffee and paint together in a social environment.
■ Colin Robinson, 0407 426 252
Shuttles and pickleballs
Macedon Ranges Badminton Club is inviting residents to come and play badminton, or pickleball, or both at Macedon Community Centre. Badminton is played on Tuesdays from 7.30pm and Thursdays at 9.30am. Pickleball is played on Mondays at 6.30pm, Wednesdays at 10.15am and on Tuesday from 10am at the Romsey Recreation Centre.
■ David, 0419 589 425, or macedonrangesbadminton@gmail.com
Scottish country dancing
The Macedon Ranges Scottish Country Dancing Group meets every Thursday afternoon 1–3pm at Buffalo Stadium, Woodend. The dancing involves social country dancing, and no special clothes needed, just soft flat shoes.
■ Meg, 5427 1100, or Linda, 0408 476 317
Amateur radio club
The Macedon Ranges Amateur Radio Club meets on the third Saturday of the month at the Woodend RSL Hall, 32 Anslow Street, Woodend, at 10am. If you are interested in amateur radio or already have a call sign, this could be for you.
■ http://www.mrarc.org.au
Take off weight naturally Struggling to lose weight? Struggling to get motivated? Want to try and do it in a friendly and less stressful atmosphere? Come and join TOWN (Take Off Weight Naturally) every Thursday at 9am at the Sunbury Neighbourhood House, 531 Elizabeth Drive, Sunbury.
■ Rhonda, 0409 740 92
Kyneton Badminton Club
Kyneton Badminton Club is a welcoming, fun and social group that plays on Mondays, at 7pm at the Kyneton Toyota Sports and Aquatic Centre, Victoria Street. All skill levels welcome.
■ kynetonbc@gmail.com
Sunbury Macedon Ranges Lodge Meets monthly on the second Wednesday of the month at 7pm, 73 Main Street, Romsey. New members welcome.
■ Wayne, 0404 034 737, or Ian, 0438 240 402
Community. Connect. Create. If you are needing support or looking for a social group to join, you can visit Community. Connect. Create, which is an online resource listing support and community groups in the Macedon Ranges. if you would like your group listed or would like to work to help this project grow please email: fiona@communityconnectcreate. com.au
■ Communityconnectcreate.com.au
Neighbourhood garden
Become part of Sunbury’s Neighbourhood Garden and grow edible and useful plants in a social group at Sunbury Neighbourhood House, 531 Elizabeth Drive, Sunbury. All skill sets are welcome.
■ www.sunburyhouse.com.au or 9740 6978
Family History and Heritage Society
If you’ve got a hankering to learn more about Sunbury and your own family history, come along to meetings at 1.30pm on the third Thursday of each month, which from May will be at room five at the Global Learning Centre in Sunbury.
■ https://bit.ly/3jvM6oJ
Rotary club
The Sunbury Rotary Club meets every Tuesday at the Ball Court Hotel, 60 Macedon Street, Sunbury, from 7pm.
■ sunburyrotary@gmail.com
Ladies probus
The Woodlands Ladies Probus Club of Sunbury meets on the fourth Monday of each month at the Sunbury Bowling Club at 9.45am.
■ Leonie, 0401 764 182
Sunbury Ladies Probus Club
The Sunbury Ladies Probus Club meets at 9.30am on the fourth Wednesday of each month at the Sunbury Football Social Club rooms.
■ Pat, 0433 789 754, or Sylvia, 0417 170 142
Sunbury Combined Probus Club
The Sunbury Combined Probus Club meets every fourth Thursday of the month at the Sunbury Bowling Club at 10am.
■ Jo, 0410 834 272
week’s photographer’s choice is of ringmaster Allanah Le Du, hand balancer Tiffany Lee and clown Jojo from Circus Latino in Watergardens. (Damjan Janevski) 416384_02
LOSER’s new single a winner
With strong roots in Sunbury, alternative rock band LOSER is bringing its high-energy sound to the Last Chance Rock and Roll Bar to launch its new single.
Titled NewHeights, the track captures the band’s ethos and states their desire to find new ways to live, communicate, and express art.
LOSER bassist and Sunbury local Craig Selak said that the band has a connection to Sunbury, where they used to operate a recording studio.
“Apologies to any residents who may have heard the drums while we were tracking!” Selak said.
Theband’svocalist,TimMaxwell,alsogrew up in Sunbury.
With many bands forming in Sunbury and then touring their music, Selak said he feels a sense of community with other local artists.
“I think a lot of bands start in Sunbury and then move out, but you’ve always got the ‘Sunburyness’ about you that brings you back … everyone kind of knows everyone else who’s had a guitar in their hand as they’ve grown up,” he said.
“There’s always that connection there. You bump into people you know out on the road playing other shows but there’s always that
connection.”
Selak said that the musical history of Sunburyalsoplaysintothelocalartistidentity.
“There’s always the shadow of the Sunbury Festivalhangingovertoo,itseemedlikesucha great event that still lives on in people’s minds … so it’s kind of cool to have that hanging on your belt as well. Like you’re carrying the torch in a sense”
LOSER will launch their new single at the Last Chance Rock & Roll Bar on Friday, July 12.
Details: https://www.bandcalledloser.com/ tour-dates
Artist moves from hobby to exhibition
“You don’t have to be a professional to create art.” That’s the message Zofia Lickova hopes people will take away from her exhibition at the Melton Library and Learning Hub.
The Melton resident’s This is Freedom exhibition is on display at the library until September 30, showcasing paintings she has created in recent years.
The exhibition features artworks offering Lickova’s unique perspective on landscapes through geometric shapes.
Theartisticjourneytraversesthreecountries significant to Lickova’s life: her upbringing in Slovakia, past experiences in Scotland, and her current settlement in Australia.
Lickova said painting has always been a part
of her life, “on and off”, but she found there were always something “more important than hobbies”.
That all changed during covid, with Lickova allowing herself the time to explore her art.
Lickova said she wanted to exhibit her work locally to ignite community interest in local art and celebrate hobby painters.
She began researching local opportunities after visiting Melton library soon after moving to the area about 18 months ago from Scotland.
“I saw paintings on the wall and I was way too shy to ask the librarian how I could get my paintings on the wall, so I did some research,” she said.
The result is ThisisFreedom, a collection of works primarily created with acrylics.
The collection invites viewers to delve into the beauty of colour palettes and experience a visual journey influenced by renowned abstract masters, from W Kandinsky to the Cubism of Kazimir Malevich and Frantisek Kupka, as well as the expressionism of Lyonel Feininger. She also draws inspiration from her uncle, Blazej Balaz, an art professor.
ThisisFreedom can be viewed at Melton Library and Learning Hub, McKenzie Street, Melton, during the library’s opening hours.
Details: https://shorturl.at/Mg6lI
Laura Michell
Screening celebrates 10 years of dance
To celebrate 10 years of L2R Dance, a documentarywillbescreeningattheendofthe month in St Albans, showcasing the journey of the group.
L2R is Australia’s only youth hip hop and street dance not-for-profit organisation, providing free hip hop dance programs, arts education opportunities and employment pathways for young people throughout Melbourne’s western suburbs and beyond.
L2R offers culturally safer, creative spaces for young people aged between six to 25 experiencing barriers to entering creative opportunities.
L2R nurtures creativity, transforming lives through the power of dance.
The documentary was directed, shot, and edited by local creative Kimberly Summer, and interviews group founder Jacinda May on the
trials and tribulations of running a grassroots community group, which started at Western English Language School, and has now expanded to a thriving community of young
Experience the magic of ‘Odyssey’
The Inner West Symphony Orchestra (IWSO) invites you to its upcoming concert, Odyssey , on August 3. Odyssey explores the evocative landscapes of Nordic nationalism and the awe-inspiring beauty of the cosmos.
The concert will feature masterpieces by legendary composers Jean Sibelius, Edvard Grieg, Camille Saint-Saëns and, the highlight of the evening, Gustav Holst’s, ThePlanets Andrew Leach will lead the performance.
Leach is a conductor, trombonist and pianist who has recently served as the director of music and performing arts at Westbourne Grammar School.
“Our second concert, Odyssey , is a journey through the Romantic to late Romantic period,” he said.
“The event provides us another opportunity to grow and retain our audience, inspiring and connecting them with accessible, dynamic orchestral music.”
IWSO assistant concertmaster and violin player, Yilin Wang said, the group has been practicing since after its first concert in April 21.
“It’s going to be full of energy and will definitely take you on a journey, whether you’re a classical lover coming to hear the full suite of The Planets or someone looking to experience a live symphony orchestra for the first time,” Wang said.
“I’m strangely looking forward to feeling those pre-performance nerves and also reliving and sharing concert moments with our friends and family afterwards.
“The audience makes a concert, so we would dearly love your support.”
people and artists celebrating street dance across Melbourne’s West.
“Join us as we commemorate our big 10th birthday and the founding of L2R with a night of reflection, reconnection, food, film and, as always, dance,” May said.
“This night is just as much about us as it is you, our community. We couldn’t have done the last 10 years without you, so please, come and join us.”
Tickets are free, but limited, so booking is heavily encouraged.
ThescreeningisonWednesday,July31,from 6pm to 7.30pm, at the Bowery Theatre in St Albans.
Tickets: https://creativebrimbank.com.au/ the-l2r-story?date=2024-07-31
Gerald Lynch
The IWSO, a non-profit organisation, was established in mid-2023 by three Yarraville music teachers.
They founded the orchestra to fill a gap in classical music opportunities in Melbourne’s western suburbs.
Since then, the ensemble has grown rapidly, attracting over 60 musicians ofvariousages,skilllevels,ethnicities, neuro and gender diversities, and physical capabilities.
Odyssey will be performed at Williamstown Hall on Saturday, August 3, at 7.30pm.
Details https://www.trybooking. com/events/landing/1238769.
Anne Parisianne
LOSER, an alternative rock band with roots in Sunbury, are launching a new single. (Ian Laidlaw)
Dancers Nolly Zaa Thang, Jacinda Richards, L’wel (Ligi) and Hena Memishi. (Damjan Janevski)
Artist Zofia Lickova. (Damjan Janevski) 416703_01
SPORTS QUIZ
1. Which Australian bowler took hat-tricks in consecutive matches during the T20 World Cup?
2. The Tour de France cycling event began in which country this year?
3. Which martial arts sport has been cut from the 2024 Paris Olympic Games?
4. Robert De Niro portrayed which boxer in the 1980 Martin Scorsese film RagingBull?
5. Former Australian cricketer Stuart Law is the national coach of which country’s team?
6. Australian NBA star Josh Giddey was recently traded to which team?
Skye is one of the mascots of which AFL team?
Which nation is the host of the UEFA Euro 2024 tournament?
Which Australian tennis player recently finished runner-up in the WTA Birmingham Classic tournament?
10. What city played host to the second State of Origin match between NSW and Queensland in 2024?
Australian basketballer Johnny Furphy played for which US college team?
Matilda Cortnee Vine recently signed a threeyear deal with which NWSL club?
13. Which former Melbourne City coach is now coach of Melbourne Victory?
14. Bec Bulley last coached which Super Netball team?
15. The Birmingham Classic is played on what type of tennis courts?
16. Which colours feature on the AFL team uniform of Port Adelaide?
17. Jeff Dunne and Rachael Gunn are set to represent Australia in which sport at the 2024 Summer Olympics?
18. Which former NBA player is the current coach of the Los Angeles Lakers?
19. Which Japanese sportswear company is the official Australian Olympic Team partner for the 2024 Summer Olympics?
20. Canadian ice hockey player Connor McDavid captains which NHL team?
21. Which team emphatically won Game 3 of the Women’s State of Origin in Townsville?
22. The Tour de France will conclude for the first time in which city on the French Riviera?
23. Which Czech tennis player is the reigning Ladies’ Singles Wimbledon champion?
24. Forty-four athletes will represent Australia in which sport at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games?
25. The national anthem of France, La Marseillaise, is the basis for which AFL team’s theme song?
26. Which Australian golfer won the 2022 British Open major golf tournament?
27. True or false: six different nations have won the last six men’s FIFA World Cup soccer tournaments?
28. The first edition of the eight-stage Tour de France Femmes took place in which recent year?
29. Who was Australia’s leading run-scorer at the recent Twenty20 Cricket World Cup?
30. What animal was famously released onto the playing field during an AFL game at the SCG in 1993?
TAKE NOTICE that the Applicant ASHIKA RANJILA MALA of72PacificEsplanadeMackayQueensland4740,Australia has now lodged a Form 1 Application with the Family Magistrates Court, Suva, in the Republic of Fiji on the 27th March 2024, seeking Dissolution of Marriage. AND TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the Application for Dissolution of Marriage is fixed for mention on the 5th day of August 2024 at 9:15am in the forenoon at Suva Family Court. AND that it is been ordered that the service on you of Form 1 be effective by this advertisement.If you desire to be heard than you must attend the Family Court at Suva in Fiji, on the date and time mentioned above, failing which the Applicant may be heard in your absence. A copy of the said form 1 (Divorce Application may be obtained by you from the Applicant namely ASHIKA RANJILA MALA of 72 Pacific Esplanade
4740, Australia in the Republic of Fiji or the
ACROSS
1 Cutting tool (8)
5 Germinate (6)
10 Common fruit (5)
11 Gradual and harmful (9)
12 Duty list (6)
13 Bishop’s district (7)
14 Flying hero (8)
15 Capital of Macedonia
18 Sickness (6)
20 Canned fish (pl) (8)
21 German city (7)
24 Oval, edible nut-like seed (6)
27 Publish simultaneously (9)
28 Primitive (5)
29 Building level (6)
30 Game bird (8)
DOWN
1 Bandy (4)
2 Unrehearsed (9)
3 Separate metal from ore (5)
4 Train network (8)
6 Security device (7)
7 Gas layer in the stratosphere (5)
8 Bland (9)
9 Employed (4)
14 Combination into a whole (9)
16 Land jutting into the sea (9)
17 Home of Jesus (8)
19 Learned (7)
22 Tropical fruit (5)
23 Metric unit (4)
25 Holy city for Muslims (5)
26 Joke (4)
list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural nouns ending in “s”.
1 Founded in 1925, which weekly US country music stage concert takes place in Nashville, Tennessee?
2 What is the largest state in the US by area?
3 Andrew Garfield (pictured), Carey Mulligan and Keira Knightley all starred in which 2010 film adaptation of a Kazuo Ishiguro book?
4 What colour is the beginner belt in karate?
5 In which two months of the year does London Fashion Week take place?
6 Which artist’s No.1 hits include Think Twice, It’sAllComing Back to Me Now and I’m Alive?
7 The animated sitcom The Jetsons originally aired in which decade?
8 What is the official language of the Faroe Islands?
9 What is the longest river in Australia?
10 How
No. 193
No. 193
Volvo EX30 off on power walk
By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring
WiththenewEX30electricSUVVolvoappears to be walking the talk toward its being a solely electric vehicle manufacturer by 2030.
The Chinese owned Swedish automobile maker’s smallest sport utility vehicle has the smallest carbon footprint of any Volvo to date.
The EX30, the company claims, is the most sustainable model it has produced, with its leather-free interior featuring recycled and renewable materials such as flax, wool, and denim upholstery, the last made from waste fibres of denim recycling.
At the heart of the EV is a high voltage 400V lithium-ion battery, with its three Australian models, incorporating single or twin motors, running on a 69kWh battery, offering ranges of an estimated 480km with the single motor and 460km with the twin option.
The three variants are EX30 Single Motor Extended Plus, at $59,990; EX30 Single Motor Extended Ultra $64,990; and EX30 Twin Performance Ultra $69,990. All are plus on-road costs.
The Plus variant is well equipped with digitalkey,wirelesscharging,Harman/Kardon Premium Sound, power tailgate, parking sensors, welcome/farewell light and auto dimming mirrors.
The Twin Motor Ultra adds fixed panoramic roof, 360-degree camera, Park Assist Pilot, power seats, four-way lumbar support, tinted rear windows, heated front seats and steering wheel and 20-inch alloy wheels.
AllEX30sarecoveredbyafive-yearunlimited kilometre warranty, eight-year battery cover and eight-year roadside assistance package and two-year service intervals.
Styling
Five exclusive exterior colours are contrasted withanOnyxBlackmetallicroofandmatching gloss black details. Up front, Volvo’s signature ‘Thor’sHammer’headlampshavebeenupdated in a segmented design with extra width and narrower look.
The new look also extends to the rear with lightingnowfittingflushwiththebody,helping the car stand out in all light conditions on the road.
The fixed panoramic glass roof of the Ultra model adds a further level of prestige to the car, while providing an airy feel to the interior. I’m notafanoflargeglassroofs.Tintedglassmight stop the sun’s rays but heat is a different matter. However, I’m told the EX30 has an insulated retractableroofblindasanafter-marketoption.
Interior
While on the subject of passenger wellbeing, Volvo is famous for its cabin climate control, with a two-zone system filtering hazardous gases from the EX30. Using a Volvo app, the cabin air can even be cleaned before entering.
As well as environmentally friendly surroundings, seating has been designed to the requirements of that in larger luxurious cars. Ergonomics have been applied from shoulder tothightoensurecomfortandsafety,especially on long drives.
Integrated front seat headrests enhance the sporty feeling of the ride, while the seat backs are concave contributing to increased legroom for rear passengers. Storage is particularly inventive, with multi-use areas at floor level between the front seats.
A sliding unit with twin cupholders is part of the centre console and with a soundbar replacingspeakers,doorpocketscanbeutilised to the maximum.
Infotainment
The dashboard is dominated by a 12.3-inch tablet-style full colours touchscreen display
with embedded Google apps at the fingertips (not always the easiest to access). Only minimum controls are on the steering wheel or column. Updates are regularly updated via the Over The Air system.
As mentioned above, a soundbar introduces a new concept to in-car audio. Standard across the EX30 range the Harman/Kardon bar stretches across the top of the dashboard the width of the cabin, producing sound equal to that of many speaker systems.
Near Field Communication technology can be used to access and start the vehicle via a smartphone with a downloaded digital key swiped over an NFC reader.
Engines/transmissions
The Single Motor Extended range delivers 200kW and 343Nm, while the Twin Performance, with motors front and rear pumps out 315kW and 543Nm. Depending on the DC peak charging power, both variants are capable of charging from 10 per cent to 80 per cent in about 30 minutes.
Safety
Volvo has a history of being at the forefront of automotive safety and the EX30 carries on the tradition. Active safety includes lane keeping assist, oncoming lane mitigation, run-off road mitigation, blind spot monitoring with steer assist, intersection auto brake, collision avoidance (braking and steering), plus cyclist and pedestrian detection.
Also included are road sign information, intelligent speed assist, adaptive cruise control, pilot assist, lane change assist, park assist camera, rear view and rear door opening alert.
Driving
Spirited acceleration, especially good on overtaking, plus almost silent running was disturbed only by road noise on some course surfaces and the heated steering wheel was a welcome surprise on a rare nippy early morning get-go.
Claimed energy consumption is 18kWh per 100 kilometres. When I last looked, the test car had recorded 18.5kW per 100 kilometres. As for refuelling on a public fast charge station, the EX30 went from 40 percent battery charge to 80 percent in 32 minutes.
Volvo would not say this too loudly but at 3.6 seconds for zero to 100 kilometres per hour, the EX30 is in some very sporty company. Fortunately,thepowertrainandall-wheeldrive handle the excess energy with aplomb. The lane-keeping assist also deserves some praise, reacting to any drift out of the centre of a lane with a gentle (yes, gentle) nudge on the steering wheel, unlike some of its ilk.
Summary
The EX30, Volvo’s smallest (and quickest) car, may be big on style, performance and equipment, but as is the wont with EVs, pricing is out of proportion. However, remember what the WRX of the 1990s did for Subaru?
The EX30, Volvo claims, is the most sustainable model it has produced. (Picture: Supplied)
Around the grounds
There was plenty of action on Saturday both on the field and courts across Melbourne’s north-west. Star Weekly photographer LJUBICA VRANKOVIC was in the thick of theaction.
Whittlesea’s Taidhg Bland. 417487_24
Mernda’s Lachlan Taylor (right) goes up in the ruck (Ljubica Vrankovic) 417489_01
The Craigieburn Eagles warm up. 417498_13
Mernda’s Zach Racovolis. 417489_12
South Morang continued on its winning ways. 417491_12
Whittlesea United’s Kemal Irdem. 417492_17
Craigieburn Eagles’ Max Viitala. 417498_31
Thomastown’s James Lucente. 417487_05
Whittlesea United’s Facundo Echeverria. 417492_01
Laurimar’s Joel Lawson evades two South Morang players. 417491_07
Tough night out for Western Warriors
The Western Warriors took a step back on Wednesday night in their loss to the Hawks in the Victorian Netball League championship.
After one of their better wins of the season on Sunday, the Falcons were well beaten by the Hawks.
The Hawks jumped out of the blocks and led early on and were able to maintain that lead through the second quarter.
After half time, the Hawks were able to blow the lead out to win, 71-51.
Warriors coach Kim Bailey was pretty disappointed with the result.
“We had a poor start and the momentum we had built the other week had gone out the window,” she said.
“It was disappointing considering we had a draw the last time we played them. We didn’t think we were out of it at half time.”
Bailey said they needed to take star goaler Kim Borger off in the second half and while it didn’t decide the result, it impacted how they were playing.
“We had a couple of things go against us in the third quarter,” she said. “We took Kim off and it changed the complexity of the game.
“Akira McCormack came on and did a great job, but there was a momentum swing and we didn’t recover from it.
“It’s something we’ve been working on and we couldn’t do it.”
Bailey said the first year side was starting to show some tiredness after a long season which has included a lot of travel the past two months.
Borger still led the goal scoring for the Warriors, finishing with 23 goals.
Ruby Shannon continued her outstanding form and was the Warriors best. Bailey was alsopleasedwiththeperformanceofunder-23 captain Eliza Gollant who stepped up into champ.
“She played most of the game,” Bailey said. “With Nat Tomassini out, Eliza stepped up and did a great job and was probably our best defender.
“It’s good to get some championship
experience under her belt. She’ll play up against next week.
The under-23s also suffered a loss to the Hawks, losing 68-42.
It was a poor start that proved costly for the Warriors against a quality side.
Bailey said they did some good things with Narena Baker playing her most complete game of the season and Shaid Sasalu did some good things.
Bailey said for both sides it’s a learning curve this season and they would take some good things into 2025.
The Warriors this week face the ladder leading City West Falcons.
The match will again be on the road, this time at Altona Sports Centre but Bailey said withmanyplayerslivingoutthatway,itwasn’t too far to travel.
“It will be a big challenge,” Bailey said. “We played well against them.
“Hopefully it’ll be more positive than last night’s [Wednesday] game.”
Tara Murray
Hanson’s Olympic plan
By Tara Murray
It’s from the Kyneton Velodrome to the roads of Paris for Lauretta Hanson.
Hanson, who learned to ride in Kyneton and still calls the Macedon Ranges home despite moving away, has been named in her first Olympic team.
Hanson is part of the Australian cycling women’s road race team.
“It’sanincrediblefeeling,”shesaid.“Cycling has been my passion since I was junior and it has given me so much in life.
“I have many friends and have been able to travel the world through my sport, but when I first started at the Kyneton Velodrome, I never thought it would lead me to where I am now.
“I never imagined that I’d make it to a professional level, let alone the Olympics. It’s incredibly humbling to look back on my career, the journey it took to get here and all of those that have helped along the way.”
Hanson said making the Olympics was somethingthatshedreamedof,butnevertruly allowed herself to believe it would happen.
She comes from a cycling family.
Her mum won a national championship in 1981 but the family moved away from the sport when her grandfather was hit and killed in 2000.
Hanson and her cousins later picked up the sport and she’s never looked back.
“Icertainlydreamed,butIdon’tthinkIever truly allowed myself to believe that it would ever happen,” she said.
“It’s only been in recent years that I actually saw it as a possibility. It’s hard to put yourself out there and chase a goal that seems near impossible, but you have to take the chance, back yourself and try anyway.”
Hanson has already represented Australia at two world championships, including last year.
She said making an Olympic team feels
Mixed results for Ballarat, Bendigo FLs
The Ballarat Football League came away with bragging rights in its interleague match, while the Bendigo Football League fell short in its on Saturday.
TheBallaratleaguefieldedanunder-23 match to take on a Hampden Football League match.
Coached by Anthony Koutoufides, the Ballarat team made it back-to-back wins after winning last year clash between the two leagues. It was Hampden that led by four points at quarter time, before the Ballaratteamtookasevenpointleadinto the main break.
Thegamewasbrokenopeninthethird quarter, with four goals to one in favour of Ballarat. The Ballarat team was able to finish off strongly, winning 11.15 (81)-7.8 (50). Melton South’s Cody Chapman was awardedthebestongroundmedal,while Sunbury Lions’ Mitch McLean and Riley Miller also had strong games.
The Bendigo league faced a Victorian Amateur Football Association side featuring players from its premier B to division 3 competitions.
The VAFA opened up a 14 point lead at quarter time and was able to extend its lead to 25 points at half time.
Five goals to three in the third quarter gave the Bendigo league some hope heading into the final quarter.
Both teams finished with three goals each in the final quarter, with the VAFA winning 12.13 (85)-10.12 (72).
significant.
“Itistheultimateworldstageandyouhavea whole nation behind you whether they follow cycling or not. It’s going to be a fantastic experience and I’m incredibly honoured to represent Australia.”
Hanson said they have a strong team with herself, Grace Brown and Ruby Roseman-Gannon.
She said her goal is to support her teammates and to help Australia to the best result possible.
Hanson hasn’t thought much past the Olympics and what’s next. At this stage she’s not competing in the Tour de France.
“I’m not sure yet,” she said of what is next.
“I race for a fantastic team in Lidl- Trek and after the Games I’ll return my focus to helping my trade team win races, but for now,
“I’m staying in the present, enjoying these few weeks into the Games and then waiting to see what life throws at me.”
James Schischka finished with four goals for Bendigo. Gisborne spearhead Pat McKenna kicked two goals.
Ricky Monti, Charlie Langford and Cooper Smith were named Bendigo’s best. Both Ballarat and Bendigo competitions will resume their normal competitions this weekend.
Ballarat interleague team (Ballarat FNL Facebook)
Jas Fraser (Grant Treeby/NV)
Lauretta Hanson (AusCycling/Josh Chadwick)
Macedon starting to find its feet
Macedon is slowly getting closer to where it wants to be in the Riddell District Netball League.
After a slow start and a number of players missing games, the Cats find themselves cemented in the top five.
Coach Katie Clarke said they were slowly getting there.
“I always said it would be a season of two halves for us,” she said. “The first half we were really trying to implement a new style.
“I was telling them to trust the process and the second half it would become intuitive on court.
“We’re still getting there. I’m not 100 per cent happy as we’re not doing it for 60 minutes yet.
“We’re playing three quarters the brand we want to play, but not four. We’re putting a lot of work in.”
On Saturday, the Cats faced Kyneton.
After leading by two goals at quarter time, the margin jumped to 16 goals at the main break.
The Cats continued to grow the lead before
running out of legs in the final quarter.
They had still done enough to come away with a big 58-34 win.
Clarkesaiditwasafairlystrongperformance before they ran out of legs late into the game.
“We were undermanned,” she said. “We had no Chelsea [Kemp], Bronte [Green] and Hayley [Birch].
“Alex [Cameron] stepped up to A-grade. We had the three goalers, but we didn’t have anyone else to take on and off.
“We stuck at it and were happy to run out with the win. I was happy for three quarters.”
Henrietta Donoghue shot 30 goals for the Cats and Eliza Petherick put up 16.
Clarke said she was happy with how Petherick had taken the step up to the A-grade team and everyone was delighted with the success she’s having.
Chloe Williams was named the Cats best along with Clarke.
For the Tigers, Claire Oakley shot 25 goals.
The Cats now sit in third spot with seven wins from their 10 matches. The Tigers sit bottom but are one of three teams on 16
points.
They are equal on wins with second placed Woodend-Hesket, but have played one less game.
Clarke said they would continue to put the hard work in at training.
They will be tested in the coming weeks.
“We have Riddell and Wallan,” she said. “We should have a full team for those games.
“It’ll be good to see how our game plan goes and what we have been working on.”
In other matches, Woodend-Hesket easily accounted for Riddell, 52-33, Melton Centrals held off Romsey, 62-58 and Wallan came from behind to beat Diggers Rest, 52-50.
Tara Murray
Macedon snare big win
By Tara Murray
It may have been a small win in terms of the margin for Macedon against Kyneton, but it was a big win in terms of the Riddell District Football League season.
The two teams entered the match equal on points and with an eye on fifth spot and a finals berth.
It was a match that was never going to be high scoring, with the ground at Tony Clarke Oval not in the best condition.
Not much would separate the teams with a goal to Dylan McDonald with three minutes to go, giving the Cats a 8.9 (57)-8.5 (53) win.
Cats coach Al Meldrum said it was an important win in the context of his side’s season.
“It was definitely a big win,” he said. “It was a big game for both teams and there was a lot at stake.
“It’s been an interesting couple of weeks for Kyneton, knocking off Romsey and then they wouldhavebeendisappointedagainstRiddell.
“We were prepared that they would come across with everything to play for.
“It was a less than a goal game and this time we were on the right side of it. It now gives us a little bit of a gap.”
Meldrum said that he thought the Tigers had the better of the first half, before they got on top in the third quarter.
He said it felt at times both teams were walking on eggshells and there were a lot of mistakes.
“It was really close and really contested,” he said. “We were up for it and corrected a lot of things in the second half.
“We got momentum in the third quarter. We had an eight point lead at three quarter time.
“They kicked the first two goals of the final quarter.”
Despite owning a lot of the ball in the final quarter, the Cats struggled to convert their dominance in the final term.
A mark from a forward 50 stoppage to McDonald, who was able to convert, was enough to get the win.
Meldrum said they were able to manage the game from there to hold on.
Jason Cooke kicked four goals for the Cats. Meldrum said he was one of the standouts, along with Sam Indian, who took a lot of importantinterceptmarks,andZachSmedley, who was the side’s most consistent player all day.
Ryan Pretty kicked three goals for the Tigers, with Caleb Fisher and Cody Young named their best.
The win had the Cats in fifth spot, a game
and percentage ahead of the Tigers. The Cats also have a game in hand having had both their byes already.
Meldrum knows that if they want to play finals, it is in their own hands.
“It’s such a tight competition,” he said. “I thought we’ve been competitive with all the teams above us.
“I thought we played well against Diggers
Rest and we didn’t win and we didn’t play so well and got the win this week.
“Sometimes you have to win ugly. The outcome will be whatever it is and we will finish where we deserve.”
In other results, Romsey beat Melton Centrals, Diggers Rest had a good win against Wallan and Riddell did just enough against Woodend-Hesket.
Sports shorts
GDCA
One of the Gisborne and District Cricket Association’s most powerful batters has signed on for next season. Gisborne has announced that Riley Vernon has signed on for another season. In the 2023-24 season, Vernon scored 1129 in what is the most runs scored in the GDCA’s top flight. He has spent the summer playing in the United Kingdom. Spencer Jones has also re-signed for the Dragons, while Jay King has announced his retirement.
Olympics
Gisborne’s Mary Hanna is unlikely to represent Australia at a seventh Olympics after being named as a reserve for Australia’s equestrian team. A nine-person team was named on Thursday, with a mixture of experienced and new Olympians. Hanna was named as the travelling reserve for the dressage competition. She is one of three travelling reserves. The travelling reserves can be selected as a replacement athlete onto the Australian Olympic Team in case of injury or other withdrawal of one of the selected athletes.
EDFL
Sunbury Kangaroos remain outside the Essendon District Football League division 2 top four despite a loss on Saturday. The Kangaroos faced third placed Westmeadows and it was a tough day. The Tigers jumped out to an early lead and were able to stay in front all day, winning 13.14 (92)-4/11 (35). Samuel Van Taarling and Mitchell Streiff were named the Kangaroos best. East Sunbury had a 23.13 (151)-6.4 (40) loss to Taylors Lakes. In division 1, Rupertswood had a bye, while there were no women’s games.
RDFL
The top sides both got good wins in the Riddell District Football League women’s competition on Saturday. Macedon beat Romsey 19.6 (120)-1.3 (9), while Kyneton beat Woodend-Hesket, 5.3 (33)-0.7 (7). Melton won the other match against Mount Alexander Falcons.
FOR MORE SPORT, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Sunbury & Macedon Ranges Star
Eliza Petherick. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 416140_17
Zachary Smedley. (Ljubica Vrankovic)
Sunbury Lions are ready to pounce
The Sunbury Lions are set to receive some welcome boosts in the back part of the Ballarat Netball League season.
The Lions sit second on the ladder with two losses for the season, but for much of the season have had players in and out of the side.
Lions coach Kim Bailey said they would have taken the season so far at the start of the season.
“If you had told me at the start of the season we would have the injuries and unavailability we’ve had, I might have panicked,” she said.
“With Lani [Fauonuku] being unavailable we’ve been able to understand how Bec [Hicks] plays and fits in the structure.
“Her and Tara [O’Grady] are working well together. It’ll be nice to have everyone back and be able to some changes and have options instead of a set
team every week.”
Bailey said she was unsure when captain Tayla Honey would be back, but they were hoping to have her on the court for finals.
One positive to come out of players missing games, is showing the depth they have at the club.
“Sarah Croft has played in the centre position with Simona Di Filippo when they probably hadn’t though that would happen this season.
“Mackenzie Wood and Emily Conn have come up from B-grade and done a fantastic job. They are both local girls and it’s good to see them out there.
“In the region there’s some quality netballers. Macca is still in under-19s and she will be a permanent fixture in A-grade in years to come.
“We want to have that successful pathway
into the A-grade team. We want to show the pathway through the grades.”
There was a competition wide bye on the weekend due to interleague.
Bailey said it came at a perfect time for them.
“We have Lani at the under-17 national camp and Bec Hicks has been sick,” she said.
“Tayla is still not back and Ruth [Smith] is on her honeymoon. There’s been a lot in the VNL [Victorian Netball League and there’s a lot of tired bodies.
“There’s no VNL this weekend, so the girls will be nice and rested for Redan.”
The Lions face Melton this week before playing Redan the following week.
They then have a tough run home when they face both top side Darley and top four side Melton South in the run home.
Tigers break drought
By Tara Murray
Lancefield has had a tally of the days since its under-19 side had won on its old scoreboard all Riddell District Football League season.
The tally passed 4000 and on Friday it ticked up to 4017 since the side had last tasted victory, exactly 11 years to the weekend of the last win.
That all changed on Friday night, with the Tigers coming away with the points against Riddell, 7.13 (55)-5.1 (31).
Tigers vice-president Chris Dynon said it was an incredible result. He said they put the number on the scoreboard to highlight what it would mean if they got the win.
“It’s been a tumultuous week at Lancefield with the seniors side still being winless this year after losing their last two games by just two and three points and then losing their coach last week,” he said.
“The under-19s have also had a series of heartbreaking losses through the year.
“That was all quickly forgotten though
when the final siren sounded unleashing wild celebrations from players, who’d worked so hard to end the drought, and from the large Lancefield crowd who came out to see if they could do it.”
A lot has happened since the last win for the Tigers.
The Tigers have had entire seasons without a win, other years that have been forfeited part way through the year when the numbers fell away or where, in the weeks leading up to the start, they just couldn’t pull the numbers to field a team and had to fold.
Just one player of that team still plays for the Tigers, John Morgan, who played his 250th game for the club this season.
The only senior football or netball match for the Tigers on the weekend, there was a big crowd at Lancefield Park on Friday night.
Dynon said there were more than a few nervous moments throughout the match.
“In the third quarter we kicked, 1.7 or something like that. There were thoughts
Bannan steps down
Lancefield coach Tim Bannan has made the decision to step away from the Riddell District Football League club.
TheTigersannouncedonsocialmedia that Bannan had made the decision to step away from the role after their loss to Woodend-Hesket.
It’s been a tough season for the Tigers, who sit without a win after 11 rounds. Against the Hawks, the Tigers lost by three points in a low scoring affair.
“Following Lancefield’s narrow loss yesterday our senior men’s football coach, Tim Bannan announced he would step down from the role effective immediately,” the club said on social media.
“Coaching is a tough, all consuming job, even more so when a team is struggling for wins and hampered by injuries.
“Few could appreciate the stresses involved in such a role, as such we understand Tim’s decision and appreciate the difficulty he would have had in coming to that decision.”
“Tim was a passionate advocate for blooding our young players and gave a huge number of players their first taste of senior football as part of their development.
“This will have long term benefits for Lancefield FNC that will be felt for many years to come.
would be find a way to lose it.
“We dominated the third quarter but couldn’t convert. Five to six minutes to go, we were two goals up.
“We got a goal and that put us comfortably in front. There were no celebrations until the final siren.”
Dynon said they were hoping that they could finish the season off strongly and get a couple more wins of the board.
Coach Jason Tully said they made the under-19s a real focus during the week.
“Todd Viney came down during the week to speak to all the players and he had so many important things to say from his experience about adversity and the great thrill that comes from overcoming it.
“We’re really excited about the future. While it’s an under-19s competition quite a few of our boys are from the under-17s team that folded due to low numbers so we’ll only get better – then again they probably said the same thing 11 years ago. Hopefully we don’t have to wait so long next time”
“The LFNC committee thanks Tim and his family for their contribution to our club over the last two years and they will always be welcomed back as important members of our club.”
Club vice-president Chris Dynon said for much of the season they’ve been missing 10 to 14 players out of their senior side, which has had a big impact.
The club said their assistant coaches Ryan O’Meara and Andrew McTrusty would take on the senior coaching role for the interim.
Planning for next season will also begin. O’Meara said off-field the club was in a really strong position.
“Planning for 2025, in terms of a permanent coach and recruiting will start in earnest over the coming days,” the club said.
“We are excited by the development of our young players and believe we are well placed to improve sharply in 2025.”
Lancefield’s under-19s team. (Lancefield FNC)
Tara Murray Rebecca Hicks. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 413382_15
