Cats hold their nerve
It was a thriller in the Riddell District Football League women’s grand final on Saturday night, with Macedon holding on to claim its first women’s premiership, beating Kyneton, 5.8 (38)-6.1 (37). For the Cats, it was joy after falling short at the last hurdle last year. For more on the game, turn to page 23
Push for Sunbury Rd work
By Oscar Parry
Hume council will write to the state government to seek duplication of a section of Sunbury Road and interim improvements to the median barrier.
The council will address the letter to Roads and Road Safety Melissa Horne to request this commitment.
The section referred to spans from the end of the Tullamarine Freeway to Oaklands Road.
Councillor Jack Medcraft, who raised the notice of motion at the August 12 Hume council meeting, said that as the road is a
single lane with an emergency lane, excessive traffic congestion is created when four lanes of the Tullamarine Freeway merge into one.
“If you come up there at five o’clock … you find that the traffic is banked back well towards the airport … you could be stuck in traffic there for at least 45 minutes just to get on Sunbury Road,” Cr Medcraft said.
He said that before the median barrier was installed, the road was especially dangerous.
“Many years ago, coming to council, I was almost wiped out by a car doing a U-turn in front of us … it would have been catastrophic.”
Cr Medcraft said if the emergency lane was
converted to an additional regular lane, the surrounding land could be used to drive on in an emergency situation instead.
“The government body, they came out and they put the barrier – which was welcomed, and they also did the road … It looked like they were going to do two lanes both ways, but instead they put out one lane and the emergency lane, and yet there’s a mile of free land that you could drive on when you’re in trouble.”
He said the section of road in focus is especially dangerous in dark driving conditions, calling for improvements to the visibility of the median barriers with
reflective paint.
“You’ve got four lanes going into one lane, which is a disaster in the night time … And especially if it’s been raining, you can’t see the rail. They’ve got reflectors on the top of them but they don’t get cleaned,” he said.
“I’m hoping this one does get some air, and the minister looks at it seriously.”
Crs Jodi Jackson and Jarrod Bell also expressed concerns around the safety of the road, with Cr Jackson adding that the danger is increased with additional truck traffic from major projects.
The state government was contacted for comment.
Macedon celebrates its premiership. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 425629_55
Overdue rates penalty set to go
Hume council will cease charging penalty interest on overdue rates for ratepayers who enter into a payment plan by November 30.
The move will apply to all classes of ratepayers – residential, commercial, industrial and rural – whoever commerical ratepayers will be required to provide information to substantiate that their tenant is experiencing financial hardship.
Hume’s overdue rates bill currently totals $39.5 million and council charges 10 per cent interest on unpaid rates.
Councillor Sam Misho said this approach
has proven counterproductive, as reflected in a $7.5 million rise in overdue payments over the past year.
He believes the existing penalty system is more of a deterrent than an effective solution.
“[The increase in unpaid rates] exhibits the struggles of our people; otherwise, they would have paid their dues and avoided the 10 per cent interest charge,” he said.
“This 10 per cent penalty may have been intended to be a deterrent for non-payment, and is now acting as a demotivating factor, making it even harder for people to settle their
debts.
“It is time for us to adopt a more compassionate and pragmatic approach. By reaching out to our ratepayers and assisting them in paying their overdue debts.”
Councillor Karen Sherry questioned how removing the penalty charge would motivate people to pay back their debts.
“We are making an assumption that it will incentivise,” she said.
“Have other councils done this? What is the tipping point? We are already reaching out to ratepayers, we are asking them to come and
Sunbury centenarian’s celebrations
Sunbury local Jennie Willmott turned 100 on Wednesday, August 14, celebrating the milestone with a cake and party.
The milestone was marked at aged care facility Bolton Clarke Riddell Gardens in Sunbury,whereMrsWillmottsaidshereceived a “beautiful” cake and enjoyed a large birthday party.
A mother of five children, she said that one of the gifts from her son was a newsletter titled ‘TheJennieTimes’featuringalistofinteresting
events from 1924 – the year she was born.
Mrs Willmott said that she felt that reaching the milestone was “amazing”.
“I didn’t think it was that important, but apparently it is! So good on me,” Mrs Willmott said.
Mrs Willmott moved to Sunbury from Yeppoon in Queensland, where she owned a milk bar.
ShewasalsoonceasingerwiththeAustralian army, being selected for a competition.
During her time as a singer, she said that a memorable event was when she was travelling with the army towards France but needed to turn back due to the situation becoming too dangerous.
She said that her advice for a long and enjoyable life is to not overthink and take action.
“Do whatever you feel is the right thing to do … just do it, and don’t spend too much time on the thinking.”
makeanarrangementbythe30thofNovember and then we won’t charge you interest.
“SoIamjustnotsureifthisisthewaythatit’s going to happen.”
Cr Sherry also wondered if people who own multiple properties should be able to apply to the ceasing of the penalty charge.
“If someone owns an investment property and they are unable to pay their rates on it, shouldn’t they sell that property?” she said.
“If someone owns multiple properties I don’t know if I am comfortable if they are not paying their rates.”
The eight new electric vehicle charging bays are now in operation at the Sunbury multi-deck car park, with Hume council setting a usage fee of 35 cents a kilowatt-hour.
ThisGST-inclusivefeewillbereviewed in the 2025/26 council budget to ensure that the operational and electricity costs are covered for the eight 22 kilowatt AC rechargers.
In an officers’ report presented at the latest council meeting, it stated that as it was difficult to predict usage rates of the charging bays, the selected fee was recommended by the supplier.
According to the report, the fee covers theoperationalandelectricitycostswhile being not low enough to outcompete other private electric vehicle charging options in Sunbury.
Itsaidthattheoneotherrechargingbay in Sunbury is at the Gap Road Hungry Jack’s, which provides recharging at a cost of 25 cents a kilowatt-hour.
Councillor Jarrod Bell said that installingtheeightbaysaddressedaneed in Sunbury to match the year-on-year increase in electric vehicle purchases in Australia.
“EVs … don’t form the only solution to our future transport challenges, but they certainly form part of the solution,” Cr Bell said.
“Do not believe the hyperbole, do not believe the misleading headlines out there … they are cheaper to run, they are perfectly safe,” he said.
The bays are now in operation and are open for public use.
Oscar Parry
Councils call on governments for housing collaboration
Five Melbourne councils, including Hume, wrote a joint communique to the state and federal governments calling for increased collaboration on delivering social and affordable housing.
Hume, Darebin, Kingston, Moonee Valley and Whittlesea city councils addressed the communique to state and federal ministers responsible for planning, housing, and infrastructure.
The letter called for the state government to progress the Activity Centre program as a “genuine partnership” and recognise
the perspectives of councils in regards to managing growth and change.
The state’s Activity Centre Program identified ten areas across Melbourne that are planned to host 60,000 new homes located nearby to services, jobs, and public transport.
The state government has set a target to build 800,000 homes in Victoria over the next decade.
In the communique, the councils requested engagementandcollaborationondetailsbefore Activity Centre plans are made public, deeper commitment to infrastructure coordination
across all government departments and agencies, and support and buy-in from the federal government.
Hume mayor Cr Naim Kurt “Local government has a role to play in providing housing choice through efficient planning services, but solving this issue requires a genuine partnership from all levels of government and industry to resolve.”
“Housing supply and affordability is one of Australia’s most pressing issues and we welcome the chance to collaborate with both the Victorian and Commonwealth
governments to tackle it,” he said.
A state government spokesperson said 466 new homes had been built in Hume as part of its Big Housing Build program, with a target of 496.
“The best way to make housing more affordable is to build more homes – that’s why we’re working with councils right across the state to give more Victorians the opportunity to find a home in areas close to jobs, transport and services,” the spokesperson said.
The federal government was also contacted for comment.
Sunbury resident Jennie Willmott holding two cards she received for her 100th birthday, with one addressed to her from King Charles and Queen Camilla. (Damjan Janevski) 425387_01
Wonka coming to town
Students from Sunbury and Macedon Ranges Specialist School’s Bullengarook campus are getting ready to perform their next production, ‘Wonka and the Golden Ticket’.
Inspired by the Willy Wonka and The Chocolate Factory film from 1971, Bullengarook campus production director Lori Nicholssaidtheproductionhasreceivedplenty of input and enthusiasm from students.
“I created 22 speaking parts to ensure everyone who wanted a line or more in the show could have one. We auditioned students for all of the main roles, and they did such a wonderful job, we had some trouble choosing,” Ms Nichols said.
She said the students, families, and staff have been especially enthusiastic about designing and building colourful props, taking inspiration from those used in the film.
Bullengarook campus production co-director Darcy Nolan said all stages of
developingandperformingschoolproductions has broad benefits for the students.
“The biggest one is confidence and self-esteem. They really get a sense of pride in being able to work and be on-stage and remember their lines … the success in that and the confidence they get looks different for everyone,” Mr Nolan said.
“We like healthy pressure … it gives those sorts of things to feel nervous and feel unsure but to push through and to be resilient – and in the end, they’ll come out with something to be really proud of,” he said.
“Our kids have lots of challenges in their life, but this is one of those times where we get to celebrate them for who they are and what they can do.”
The production will be performed between Tuesday, September 10 and Thursday, September 12 at The Mountview Theatre in Macedon.
Briefs
Drink driver caught in Sunbury
A woman was caught allegedly driving over four times the legal limit in Sunbury on Monday, August 12. Police intercepted the driver on Sunbury Road about 11.05am, after reports she had been seen driving erratically in the Sunbury area. The woman underwent a preliminary breath test, before accompanying members to a nearby station where she returned an alleged breath test result of .250 blood alcohol content (BAC). The woman had her licence immediately suspended and her car impounded for 28 days at a cost of $969.80 and is expected to be charged on summons with traffic offences.
Injured worker upskilling program
The state government announced it will investigate rolling out a statewide program aimed at helping injured workers to re-skill as Vocational Education Trainers. Following an assessment of the VET Trainer Career Pathway Pilot Program, the state will look at rolling it out across Victoria. The nine-month pilot program provides the theoretical and hands-on training required to become a VET Trainer. At the conclusion of the program, participants are qualified to teach their specialty VET course in schools, TAFEs or Registered Training Organisations.
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Lifestyle Woodlea Open Day
Discover the very best that downsizing in Melbourne’s West has to offer at Lifestyle Woodlea.
Explore our display homes and tour the multi-million-dollar Clubhouse. There’ll also be a presentation at 12pm from My Pension Manager on Age Pension applications and dealing with Centrelink.
When: Saturday 31st August Time: 11am to 2pm
or walk-in on the day!
Sunbury and Macedon Ranges Specialist School Bullengarook Secondary Campus students at the rehearsal of their upcoming production titled ‘Wonka and the Golden Ticket’. (Damjan Janevski) 425195_01
Hume indented parking proposal
By Oscar Parry
Hume council will investigate requiring planning permit applications for multi-unit developments and subdivisions in established suburbs to include indented car parking.
Speaking at the August 12 council meeting, councillor Sam Misho said a regular complaint heard from residents was the deficiency of on-street parking in Hume.
“Technically, planning scheme rates for car parking are being satisfied; however
the number of cars now required to service multi-bedroom units creates … flow-on additional pressure for on-street car parking in already packed streets,” Cr Misho said.
“I believe that to ensure appropriate access to car parking in our existing residential suburbs, it would be appropriate to apply conditionstoplanningpermitsformulti-unit development or subdivisions requiring the provision of indented parking.”
He said the requirement for planning permit applications to provide additional
indented parking would not be suitable in all circumstances, but would be balanced.
“I think this will overcome many of the issues we [face] sometimes when we have developments … with perhaps two or three bedrooms, and we have one single car park with tandem parking at the back,” Cr Misho said. Councillor Jarrod Bell said increased indented parking in Hume’s residential streets would help make them safer and more accessible.
“By increasing the proliferation of
Choir sings for a cause at St Mary’s
St Mary’s Anglican Church in Sunbury is hosting a fundraising concert to restore the bluestone roof of its historic chapel.
The church will host a concert with the Victoria Welsh Choir, with all funds raised from tickets going towards restoring the roof of the old chapel, which was constructed in the late 1800s.
St Mary’s Anglican Church operations manager Narelle Riley said the estimated cost of the restoration is about $32,000. She said that over time, the bluestone slate
has moved, aged, and is covered in lichen and moss.
“We’re trying to be proactive and ensure it doesn’t cause any problems … It’s a very integralpartofthelocalcommunity’shistory,”
Ms Riley said.
“It’s located as part of the Village Green in the central part of Sunbury – lots of visitors who visit the fountain can see the … chapel from there,” she said.
The chapel is currently used for services on Wednesday mornings and for weddings and
funerals.
The Victoria Welsh Choir will perform at St Mary’s Worship Centre auditorium on Saturday, August 31, at 2pm.
“[Attendees] will be able to see the beautiful chapel roof through the big picture roof while listening to the harmonies of the Welsh Choir,” Ms Riley said.
“Perhaps it would make a lovely father’s day gift to bring dad along to the concert.”
Details: trybooking.com/CTHFO
indented parking, it does seek to make roads safer – particularly things like bus routes, and of course, emergency service egress and ingress,” Cr Bell said.
“I’ve driven a heavy rescue truck through many streets which have been perfectly approved … and … sometimes I am having to slow right down and pull the mirrors in to get my rescue truck through.”
Council officers will investigate the appropriate circumstances for this planning permit requirement to apply.
Hume Council requests trolley laws
Hume council will write to the state government to express its concern with dumped and abandoned shopping trolleys and to call for state-wide legislation addressing the issue.
Hume recently introduced and is now enforcing local laws that address trolley dumping, where responsibility is placed on retailers for dumped and abandoned trolleys.
A notice of motion raised by Hume mayor Naim Kurt at the August 12 council meeting, recommended that the council write to environment Minister Steve Dimopoulus to highlight the council’s own laws, and to ask that the government investigate statewide legislation to further address the issue.
The report noted that state-wide legislation for shopping trolley dumping exists in New South Wales and South Australia, which like Hume’s local law, places responsibility on retailers.
According to the report, Hume receives about 200 reports each week about trolleys left in streets, parks, and waterways, which it said poses a safety and environmental hazard and tarnishes the region’s aesthetic.
“I think there is room … for some overarching legislation,” Cr Kurt said.
“It’s clear that impounding trolleys alone isn’t enough, and that major supermarkets can easily often replace some of those lost trolleys very cheaply on the market,” he said.
“It’s time to place the responsibility back on the supermarkets and demand that they clean up their act.”
The state government was contacted for comment.
National taskforce crackdown on Sunbury extortion
Addresses in Sunbury and Diggers Rest were among those targeted by a national taskforce earlier this month, which resulted in millions of dollars worth of seized substances.
Taskforce Morpheus involved state and federal police, as well as other government entitiessuchastheAustralianTaxationOffice, Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre, and Services Australia, to target high threat outlaw motorcycle gangs (OMCGs).
Between August 5 and 9, police zeroed in on drugs, firearms, Firearm Prohibition Order (FPO) compliance searches and service, weapons and explosives, with each state and territory proactively targeting their own highest priority issues, with concentrated disruption, enforcement and compliance activity undertaken.
On Friday, August 9, five search warrants
were executed in Sunbury and Diggers Rest as part of an investigation into multiple alleged extortions.
WithassistancefromtheSpecialOperations Group, a 38-year-old Sunbury man was arrested and subsequently charged with two counts of extortion and blackmail with menaces, theft of a motor vehicle, stalking, making threats to kill, failing to comply with conditions of 465 AA order, possessing prescription medication and possessing explosives.
He appeared at the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on August 12.
The taskforce also found a clandestine steroid laboratory in Sydenham.
On Wednesday, August 7, a 35-year-old Mickleham man, who is a patched member of the Hells Angels OMCG, was found hiding
in the rear axle of an abandoned vehicle in Sydenham.
He was subsequently charged with driving whilst disqualified, driving an unregistered vehicle and trailer, displaying false number plates, possession of a drug of dependence, theft of a motor vehicle, handling stolen goods and possessing proceeds of crime.
He was bailed to appear at Sunshine Magistrates’ Court on November 28.
As part of the operation officers made 106 arrests and 259 charges were laid. They seized 35 firearms, 742 explosives or various types of ammunition and 18 weapons.
In addition, there were more than 740,000 illicit cigarettes seized, more than 900 illicit vapes, about 75kg of looseleaf tobacco and about 125kg of shisha seized.
Taskforce Morpheus chair Jason Kelly said
the impact of OMCGs on the community is significant.
“They are motivated by greed and profit and we know that they have a culture of secrecy and intimidation and a greater propensity for extreme violence,” he said.
“Research has found that four in five Australian OMCG members have a recorded criminal history, and they were nearly three times as likely to have contact with the criminal justice system by age 33 as other men.
“This will not be tolerated. Any OMCG member or associate who thinks they can get away with criminal behaviour that puts innocent members of the public at risk should think again.”
Gerald Lynch
St Mary’s Anglican Church Sunbury parish members Matthew Ciappara and Andrew Headley, administrative assistant Rebecca Klouth, and minister Kathleen Ross in front of the aged roof. (Ljubica Vrankovic). 424957_01
Councils call for rate cap change
Restrictions on revenue sources, rising costs and population growth are creating ongoing challenges, according to the Outer Melbourne Councils (OMC) group.
Thegroup,previouslyknownastheInferface Councils Group, comprises 10 councils that form a ring around metropolitan Melbourne, including Whittlesea, Hume, Wyndham and Melton.
They commissioned KordaMentha to prepare a report on the funding interface between local and state governments.
The report found that while councils were managing their finances well, they were
facing revenue challenges in the form of the state government’s rates cap, rising costs and population growth. It found that the state government’s rates cap - introduced in 2016 under the Fair Go Rates System to limit rate increases - was impacting councils’ ability to deliver infrastructure and services, as was rising OMC representative and Whittlesea council chair administrator, Lydia Wilson said the groupwascallingonthestategovernment,and federal government where applicable, to enter into a new partnerships with local government to address growth challenges.
Ranges Landcare grants
Several Macedon Ranges groups were successful in receiving a Victorian Landcare Grant.
Grants of up to $20,000 were offered for a range of projects, including those that provide community education or works that benefit native vegetation, native fauna, waterways, wetlands, and soils.
There were also support grants of up to $500 provided to assist with operational costs for environmentalvolunteerandLandcaregroups, suchasinsurance,meetings,events,newsletters, websites, and other communication activities.
In the Macedon Ranges, five groups received project grants and seven groups received support grants. Project grants were received by groups including Deep Creek Landcare Group, Ashbourne Landcare Group, Campaspe River and Land Management Group, Threatened Species Conservancy, and Malmsbury District Landcare Group.
Malmsbury and District Landcare Group received a grant towards its ‘A turn in the right Direction – Giving a waste site a new future’ project in Kyneton South, which will enable the group to manage weeds and begin the execution of their revegetation plan of the former waste site.
Malmsbury District Landcare Group president John Walter said the project is about converting a waste site into a public asset and providing a stop-off point for local fauna.
“It’s not an interesting looking site at the moment, but having spent a lot of time looking and understanding and working with the local flora, I can see in my mind what … I hope it will look like in … twenty years time,” Mr Walter said.
Hesaidthesitecouldactasaguidefornearby residents to inform which types of vegetation and plant species they could plant on their own properties.
Goonawarra’s got talent
Sunbury residential aged care service Calvary Goonawarra hosted a talent show, uniting staff, residents, and local high school students.
The event, titled ‘Goonawarra’s Got Talent’, took place earlier this month on Thursday, August 1.
Students from Salesian College Sunbury’s Mannix House hit the stage to demonstrate their performing arts skills, staff and family members demonstrated their singing and dancing prowess, and Calvary Goonawarra residents shared their creative talents.
A series of awards were offered, including ‘People’s Choice’ and ‘Rising Star’ categories.
One resident delivered a stand-up comedy routine, winning the Rising Star award; Mannix House won the solo award and group award for their cover of Sweet Caroline; and a staff member’s daughter was the overall winner and People’s Choice for her jazz dance routine.
Calvary Goonawarra home manager
“This is the great public policy challenge of our time – how do we do growth better?
“We need to meet the needs of today’s communities,planfortomorrow’communities and agree on how we pay for the services and infrastructure our communities need.”
The report made a number of recommendations which the OMC believes will provide a financial platform to support further population growth.
These include cost-reflective indexation of the rate cap, exemptions from the rate cap for infrastructure programs to provide for population growth and exemption for local
government from the state government’s windfall gains tax where landholdings are repurposed for community benefit.
According to the state government, councils can apply for a higher rate cap if they can demonstrate community support and a critical need for spending on services or projects that require a rate rise above the capped amount.
A state government spokesperson said the Fair Go Rates system was reducing the cost of living for Victorians.
“TheVictorianbudget2024-25hasincreased financial support to local government by $161 million to a total of $875 million.”
Michelle Magundayao said the event was an opportunity for social connection and fun.
“It was a lovely opportunity for all the generations to get together, have fun, and for our residents to connect with their local community and show themselves and others thattheyhavetalentstheycancontributetoo,”
Ms Magundayao said.
“Everyone was so excited and had such a good time.”
Salesian College Sunbury Mannix House coordinator Bethany Lapsley said students brought letters, friendship bracelets, and other gifts for the residents.
“Mannix House has adopted Calvary Goonawarra as its house charity,” Ms Lapsley said.
“This week the house has been celebrating Feast Week, which is dedicated to imbuing personalandcommunityspiritinthestudents and providing the opportunity to reach out to connect with others,” she said.
Calvary Goonawarra resident Jack won a ‘Rising Star’ award for his comedy routine. (Unsplash)
Laura Paterson Personal Injury Lawyer
Malmsbury and District Landcare Group president John Walter, secretary Adrian Robb, vice president Jim Kilsby, and Kyneton South landowner Irene Cassar at the site set to be revegetated. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 424921_01
MY PLACE
Kyneton auctioneer Martin Evans has a long history of living and working in Kyneton and said there’s “probably nothing” he hasn’t sold in town. Oscar Parry talks to Martin about his connection to Kyneton and some of the memorable items he has auctioned.
What is your connection to Kyneton?
I’ve been there 40 years, my children [were all] born there and went to school there … I was 20 when I [moved here]. I’m 65 now. I’ve had lots of businesses in the town – the local taxi service, I’ve had milk bars, service stations, chicken shops … and supported just about everything in the town. I’m one of the longest-serving supporters of the Kyneton Daffodil Festival.
What do you like most about Kyneton?
It’s a lovely township – it still has the country feel.Istillbelieveit’sfullofhonestandreputable people. It’s just a friendly community place.
What, if anything, would you change about Kyneton?
I think it probably needs to be more children-friendly, as in building more stuff for the younger folk … there’s not a lot for kids to do there. I don’t really know what that is, whether it be skateparks, cinemas – it doesn’t
have a lot of stuff for younger people. It’s got a good railway network, it’s got a good bus service, but with the surrounding areas expanding into town, I think it just needs more for young people. What are some of the interesting items that you have auctioned in Kyneton?
One of the interesting things I have sold was in the actual town itself, the gentleman was an early wartime soldier – I sold his wooden leg. I’ve sold lots of military and old [items] … a lot of old machinery. In Kyneton, there’s probably nothing I haven’t sold … I’ve been doing it for a long time.
How did you get started with auctioning? I started working for [Kyneton auctioneer] Brian Murphy selling hot dogs, that’s how I started! And then I took over his business. He’d been in the town a long, long time –he had probably been there twenty years before me.
Are your kids living in a world revolving around their passions? That’s a good thing.
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(Supplied).
Pageant showcases Samoan pride
By Afraa Kori
Chantelle Tautunuafatasi from Sunshine West was crowned Miss Samoa Victoria, but her journey is far from over.
She is now set to compete for the national crown and represent Victoria in Samoa’s most anticipated beauty pageant.
Chantelle, 24, said it feels “surreal” to compete in the Miss Samoa state and national pageants.
“I’m still processing as we speak but I’m honoured to be in this space, to have been graced with this opportunity and to use this platform to serve my community,” she said.
“Participating in the pageant is something that I’ve always wanted to do and a dream that my family and I have shared. This year I’ve found myself in a position where the opportunity has presented itself and is aligned with where I’m at in this chapter of life. Something that I truly didn’t expect but God’s timing is always impeccable.
‘‘ We all understood that this was a competition but ... empowering each other and lifting up your sister is possible ’’
- Chantelle Tautunuafatasi
“We are off to Samoa in the next three weeks so that I can compete at the National Miss Samoa pageant. So I will be representing the state of Victoria, we have our community fundraiser coming soon so keep an eye out for that.”
Held at Sheldon Reception on August 3, the Miss Samoa Victoria pageant offered culture, class, entertainment and laughs, while bringing the community together.
Chantelle excelled in various categories, winning an award for Best Introduction, Best Sarong, Best Traditional Wear, Best Talent, Best Puletasi and Best Siva Samoa.
“My favourite category was the talent section. The story behind it is something that I hold close to my heart. The Samoan Siapo that I wore belonged to my late grandmother and the Fijian Siapo was a gift from the village that we come from in Fiji; Bureta, Levuka Ovalau. The medley that I sang is a Samoan and Fijian song, dedicated to my ancestors. It was an incredible honour to stand before everyone to represent those who have come before me,” she said.
The secretary of Miss Samoa Victoria, Seumanutafa Pa’u, said it takes bravery, tenacity and determination to compete in the pageant and stand in front of community and loved ones.
“When girls apply to participate in the Miss Samoa Victoria pageant, they embark
on a comprehensive pre-pageant program, closely mirroring the prestigious Miss Samoa pageant held in Samoa,” she said.
“Our pre-pageant program includes stage presence and public speaking workshops, how to walk runway workshops, radio interviews, financial literacy workshop, fundraising events, Aganu’u (cultural) classes all help to
prepare contestants for the big night as well as eases them into serving the public. We find as girls continue the program they become more confident in speaking, how they carry themselves and especially when it comes to the cultural side of things they don’t shy away from it.
“Upon being crowned Miss Samoa Victoria,
the winner represents Victoria on a grand stage and is sponsored by Miss Samoa Victoria Incorporated at the Miss Samoa Pageant in Samoa. The Miss Samoa pageant is akin to Miss America but uniquely centers on reviving, preserving and celebrating our rich cultural heritage. This distinctive approach includes no height restrictions and a stage presentation where contestants perform barefoot, showcasing traditional attire and values. The winner of Miss Samoa then advances to compete as Miss Samoa at the Miss Pacific Islands Pageant, which features a diverse array of cultures from Tonga, Hawaii, Aotearoa (NZ), Fiji, Cook Islands, American Samoa, Tuvalu, Niue, Kiribati, and beyond.”
One of valuable lessons Chantelle took away from winning the Victorian pageant, was that the competition turned to sisterhood.
“I want the message of love and compassion to be shared through my story,” she said.
“One thing that’s so special to me is sisterhood. I came into this experience ready to learn more about myself but also to learn about my pageant sisters who have become my beautiful friends. We all understood that this was a competition but at the same time, empowering each other and lifting up your sister is possible even during a competition. Love and compassion for others can always be given and is free, there is enough hate and negativity in the world and I think it’s really important to remind people of the light that they carry and have the opportunity to spread.”
With her new title, Chantelle was able to promote and preserve her cultural roots and faith.
“My Samoan heritage is something that I proudly carry with me. I try to always incorporateapartofmyculturewhereverIgo, especially outside of our Pasifika community because living in the diaspora, it isn’t seen or represented as much. So whether it’s wearing my traditional clothes or accessories at events, incorporating the Samoan language into my performances, or even just speaking on the importance of the culture, I will always do my best to represent my Samoa in a positive light. Being a representative of the Samoan Community of Victoria is to always treat people with kindness and respect, something that is taught to us and a message that I hope to pass on.
“I’m planning to work with our community to create and promote projects that embrace the beautiful Samoan culture, programs that provide knowledge and opportunities for not just our youth but for all ages to be included in the upcoming events. “My highlight in terms of growth through this experience, has been developing a deeper connection with God. I’ve learnt to lean on him and to trust in what he has planned over my life, whether I was going to be crowned or not, at the end of the day I decided to go out there and have fun but most importantly to go with God.”
Chantelle after her crowning as Miss Samoa Victoria.
Chantelle competing in the Victorian pageant, showcasing traditional dress. Right: Chantelle and the pageant runners-up. (Pictures courtesy New Way Photography)
Djirra has a ‘very special energy’
For more than 20 years, Indigenous organisation Djirra has been committed to a future without family violence. One year since setting up in Melton, the goal remains the same as Eddie Russell reports.
Meteorologists would tell you that July 9, 2024, was a terrible day, with icy cold winds sweeping the landscape anddarkcloudsreleasinganincessantdrizzle of rain from the skies above.
However, bad weather could not dampen the mood of the 400 people who turned up to celebrate NAIDOC Week at Djirra in the West.
Amongthecrowdofwomen,children,staff, local businesses, and community figures was then Indigenous Australians Minister Linda Burney.
ShesaidtheimpactofDjirrawasnotlimited by geography and its ability to empower, inspire, and strengthen First Nations people was remarkable.
“I want to acknowledge the important contribution that Djirra makes, not just in this part of the world but right across Victoria,” she said.
“You power our communities for our communities through self determination.”
Ms Burney said in her eyes, NAIDOC Week is “about the future” and that Djirra’s engagement with youth year-round was critical.
‘‘ Djirra’s signature programs are designed by and for Aboriginal women. They are about keeping our women connected and safe, not isolated ’’
- Antoinette Braybrook
“In recent years, we’ve seen a generation of young Indigenous people putting up their hands and I know that you foster that here.”
The occasion coincided with the one year anniversary of the establishment of Djirra in the West, which allows the organisation to expand its reach and network of services to the western suburbs and beyond.
The homecoming has proven significant for chief executive Antoinette Braybrook.
Ms Braybrook, who is also co-chair of national Indigenous justice coalition Change The Record, said “the west is in my blood.”
“I grew up in Melton with my family… so I’m especially proud that Djirra is now such an established part of this community,” she said.
“Djirra in the West is an extraordinary place with a very special energy, and that energy comes from Aboriginal women.”
Djirra provides legal services, runs workshops, and advocates to government for Indigenous women who face family violence – which, unfortunately, is an all too common reality.
“If you are an Aboriginal woman in Victoria, you are 45 times more likely to experience family violence – perpetrated by men from all backgrounds – than other women,” Ms Braybrook said.
Toaddressthisdramaticoverrepresentation, Djirra places an emphasis on getting to the root of the issue to stop it before it happens or in its early stages.
Ms Braybrook said a variety of assistance was on offer to improve the livelihood and wellbeing of First Nations women.
“Our early intervention and prevention programsprovideyetanotheraccesspointfor Aboriginal women and girls to obtain advice from our specialist, legal, and non-legal support teams for their safety,” she said.
“They are essential to ending violence and it is critical that women have access to these programs.”
Being an Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation means Djirra is in a stronger position to contact, communicate,
and connect with its audience, Ms Braybrook said.
“Djirra’s signature programs are designed by and for Aboriginal women. They are about keeping our women connected and safe, not isolated.
“The programs take Djirra into our communities and to our women so they don’t have to come to us directly.”
The Victorian Royal Commission into Family Violence has recognised Djirra’s programs as best-practice, particularly its wrap-around approach to the issue.
A wrap-around approach is a common philosophy of care used by organisations that encompasses a defined planning process and builds constructive support networks.
Djirra has four main early intervention and prevention programs: Young Luv, Sisters Day Out, Dilly Bag, and Koori Women’s Place. They provide a safe ways for women to learn about family violence and legal support available to them as well as how to access it.
Sisters Day Out is a one-day wellbeing workshop where Aboriginal women can get information about legal rights and engage with both mainstream and Aboriginal support services.
The sense of community and support present during the program encourages
attendees to share their experiences and, in turn, seek help, Ms Braybrook said.
“Sisters Day out builds trust and breaks downbarrierstoaccessingsafetyandsupport. Djirra’s lawyers, counsellors and case managers are available on the day if a woman chooses to access them confidentially.”
YoungLuv equips Aboriginal teenagers aged from 13 to 18 with the information they need to challenge unhealthy relationships and practise safe behaviours at a formative stage of their lives.
Ms Braybrook said having a communal space to reflect in allows participants to better understand the important issues affecting them.
“The success of Young Luv highlights the extent to which girls value the opportunity to come together in a culturally safe environment to discuss important issues for them with Aboriginal facilitators who understand and share their culture and community.”
The Dilly Bag program is a three-day retreatheldoncountrythatdrawsoncultural principles and heritage.
“This promotes healing and informs Aboriginal women … on how to live culturally safe and meaningful lives,” Ms Braybrook said.
These workshops not only promote and raise awareness of healthy relationships, reducing vulnerability to family violence, but also minimise social isolation as well.
The lack of judgement at Koori’s Women’s Place is “so crucial“ to healing, Ms Braybrook said.
“It provides Aboriginal women and children with a range of support, including free workshops and social activities, connection to one of our legal or non-legal services, or practical support like a warm winter coat and essential groceries.”
Prevention of Family Violence Minister Vicki Ward said the state government would continue to invest in Djirra in the West so it could keep delivering crucial services and championing Aboriginal women.
“It is important to me that we continue to support their work which builds confidence and connection to culture for so many women and girls,” she said.
“I look forward to continuing to work with Djirra as they offer emotional, cultural, and practical support to Aboriginal victim-survivors of family violence.”
Djirra in the West’s next event will be a wood burning art and
circle from 11am – 1pm on Thursday, August 29.
Details: https://djirra.org.au/
crafts
Main: Locals gathered in Kurunjang to celebrate NAIDOC Week at Djirra in the West. Left: Djirri Djirri dancers at the NAIDOC Week family day celebrations. Right: Antoinette Braybrook speaks at the event. (Pictures: T J Garvie Photography)
Hysterectomy rates are slipping
By Anne Parisianne
Fewer Victorian women are opting to treat heavy periods with a hysterectomy, a new report has found.
The Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care’s Women’s Health Focus Report found there had been a 25 per cent decrease in hysterectomy rates in Victoria over the past eight years.
Across Melbourne’s north-west, the decline in hysterectomy rates varied. The Macedon Ranges recorded the largest decline (35.5 per cent), followed by Whittlesea-Wallan (28 per cent), Tullamarine-Broadmeadows (25 per cent), Melton (23 per cent), Hobsons Bay (22.4 per cent), Sunbury (20 per cent), Wyndham (16.6 per cent), Brimbank (12.6 per cent) and Keilor (6.1 per cent).
A hysterectomy is a major operation to remove the uterus and the most invasive treatment for heavy periods.
The commission said the decrease suggested women were opting for less invasive treatments to manage heavy periods.
The report found that over the past eight years, there has been a 10 per cent increase in the rate of a less invasive procedure –endometrial ablation (removal of the uterus lining using heat).
According to the report, one in four Australian women experience significantly heavy periods that seriously affects their quality of life.
About 50 per cent of women did not seek medical care despite the debilitating impact of heavy periods on daily life, which the report attributed to the stigma of menstruation and women assuming their bleeding was ‘normal’.
The commission also developed the 2024 heavymenstrualbleedingclinicalcarestandard to empower women to make informed choices abouthowtheytreatheavymenstrualbleeding.
Commission clinical director and GP, associate professor Liz Marles, said while the decline in hysterectomy rates and increase in endometrial ablation was positive, there was a long way to go to ensure women could access
Australians
Period poverty is ‘alarming’
Women across the northern and western suburbs are finding it difficult to access period products, a new survey has revealed.
Charity Share the Dignity’s bloody big survey found that across Victoria, 65 per cent of menstruators have found it difficult to buy period products.
In Melton, that figure increases to 67.7 per cent of those surveyed, followed by 67.2 per cent in Whittlesea, 66.98 per cent in Moorabool, 66.14 per cent in Wyndham, 65.72 per cent in Hume, 59.61 per cent in Brimbank, 59.41 per cent in the Macedon Ranges, 56.61 per cent in Hobsons Bay and 55.28 per cent in Maribyrnong.
Surveying 153,620 people, the bloody big survey focused on experiences, attitudes and insights on menstruation. It is run every three years to monitor the physical, social and financial impacts of menstruation and to look at period poverty rates across the nation.
Share the Dignity founder and managing director Rochelle Courtenay said the survey results were alarming.
“It breaks my heart to see such high rates of period poverty continuing here in Australia,” she said. “No one should have to go without these basic essentials, yet this issue is alarmingly prevalent.
“Ihaveheardsomanystoriessharedthrough the survey about people’s experiences with period poverty, with some people having used tea towels, or tote bags to try and manage their period with dignity, which is simply unacceptable in a country like Australia.”
MsCourtenaysaidtheresultswillarmShare the Dignity with the evidence needed to create lasting change in Australia.
“I am now focused on ensuring free and dignified access to period products in University/TAFE campuses, and sporting centres as well as campaigning for local councils to ensure their residents can manage their period with dignity,” she said.
Donations of unopened period products and incontinence aids can be made to Share the Dignity’s Dignity Drive during August. Details: sharethedignityorg.au
the full range of treatment options.
“Every woman should have access to care that is tailored to her needs. Yet we know that women’s concerns about heavy menstrual bleeding can be overlooked and it can be hard to access suitable care,” she said.
“While some women may choose hysterectomy, we want to avoid them going straight to the most invasive procedure, withoutbeingofferedlessinvasiveandeffective alternatives and information on the risks and benefits. Hysterectomy cannot be reversed and has increased risk of complications.”
Associate professor Marles said the
commission was seeking three outcomes.
“Firstly, we want women to know they don’t have to put up with symptoms, to feel comfortable talking about their periods and to be aware that there are a range of treatments, which don’t necessarily involve a major operation,” she said.
“Let’s also upskill the healthcare workforce so women are offered the full suite of treatment options, and practitioners can deliver minimally invasive treatments if appropriate, such as the hormonal IUD.
“Finally, health practitioners need to ask women about their menstrual health and tailor care to individual needs, so they receive the most suitable treatment, which differs for each woman.”
University of Sydney gynaecologist and Women’s Health Focus Report expert advisory group member, professor Kirsten Black, said the impact of heavy menstrual bleeding on a woman’s health and quality of life remains under-recognised.
“It has been great that we have seen a shift towards less invasive gynaecology procedures sincethefirstheavymenstrualbleedingclinical carestandardwasintroducedin2017,”shesaid.
“We know that many women with heavy menstrual bleeding can be successfully managed by their GP or other primary care practitioner using medical treatments like the hormonal IUD.
“Healthcare providers need to understand their patient’s menstrual history and whether the bleeding prevents them from going about daily activities and interacting socially. Some women feel they can’t leave the house when they’ve got their period because of fear of excessive bleeding.
“For women with heavy menstrual bleeding, finding the right treatment has the potential to be life-changing.”
Star Weekly wants to hear from you about the health issues affecting women in Melbourne’s western and northern suburbs. Our Women’s Health Matters survey will help inform our reporting during our 12-month women’s health campaign.
The confidential survey will take less than five minutes to complete and can be found by scanning the QR code.
Donating to the Dignity Drive will help support
who are experiencing period poverty.
Associate professor Liz Marles. (Supplied)
Party for four googly-eyed giants
It’s party time at Werribee Open Range Zoo following the arrival of four new charismatic ostriches who can bust a move and have the keen desire for a peck.
The 13-year-old curious male big-birds –Thando, Kambuni, Zazu and Orville – were recently introduced to the zoo’s savannah and are turning heads with their tall physique, dark feathery plumage and handsome big eyes.
Werribee Open Range Zoo savannah keeper Resistance Manyepera said the bustling ostriches are bringing a flurry of hectic energy and enthusiastically exploring their new surroundings.
“These four boys all have different personalities,” Mr Manyepera said.
“Zazu is the dominant male in the group and can often be seen patrolling around the savannah. He also likes to dance too.”
Despite their reputation as somewhat awkward birds, ostriches engage in an impressive dance during courtship. Zazu fluffs up his feathers and spreads his wings wide, creating an impressive visual display. He then performs a series of intricate movements, including bobbing his head, swaying from side to side, and gracefully lifting and lowering his wings.
Mr Manyepera said the ostriches have quite a bit of competition on the Savannah – a home theysharewithsixotherspecies–sotheyoften liketoshowcasetheirconfidencebypuffingout their chests.
“Sometimes they spread their wings out and stand tall to try and look much bigger among the other animals,” Mr Manyepera said.
“This is really interesting because this is the first time these ostriches are seeing giraffe, rhinoceros, zebra and all the other animals we havedownonoursavannah.So,theyareslowly learning how to interact them, understanding which animals they can get close to and which animals they should stay away from.”
Thecommonostrichisnativetosub-Saharan Africa, where they inhabit a range of habitats
including hot savannahs, deserts and open woodlands. It is the world’s largest bird, growing up to 2.7 metres tall and weighing almost150kilograms.Theyarealsotheworld’s fastest flightless bird and the fastest of all two-legged animals on the planet, running at speeds reaching 69 km/h.
Werribee Open Range Zoo is now home to a flock of eight male ostriches. Visitors have the opportunity to see the four new arrivals on a savannah bus tour that run throughout the day and are included with entry.
Meta’s claims about Facebook revealed as fake news
Inthefirsthalfof2024,one-thirdofAustralians accessed Facebook for news, a new study reveals.
ThefindingcontradictsMeta’slong-standing assertion that news content is a minor part of the Facebook experience for most Australian users.
Metahaspreviouslyusedthisclaimtojustify itsdecisiontoabandoncommercialagreements with local publishers.
The implications of this are significant for the local journalism landscape, especially for the more than 230 newspapers who are part of Country Press Australia, the association representing the interests of regional and rural newspapers across the country.
The research emphasises the essential role thatnewsmediaplaysinAustralia,particularly howregionalnewspaperscontributetooffering balanced and precise news coverage.
More than 40 per cent of Australians cited news access as a key motivator for their daily social media activity, with this tendency more noticeable among Gen Z and millennials at 60 per cent and 53 per cent, respectively.
Country Press Australia president Andrew Schreyer said there were significant industry challenges ahead, and forecast potential closures of up to 50 member outlets as current agreements under the News Media Bargaining Code with Meta near their expiration.
The study also found that while overall Facebook usage is waning, half of the Australians still turn to social media for news, with 25 per cent using it as their primary news source.
These findings starkly contradict Meta’s position that news is a minimal component of the content seen by Australians on its platforms, which Meta claimed represents less than three per cent of the total.
This study, initiated by News Corp and conducted by Dynata, refutes those statements. This research release aligns with the media
industry’s wait on the Albanese government’s decision regarding Meta’s obligations under the News Media Bargaining Code, which might compel Meta to negotiate compensation for content with news providers. Meta has threatened to block Australian news content should these costs be enforced.
In an article published in The Australian on Monday, News Corp Australasia executive chairman Michael Miller expressed concerns over Meta’s threats to remove news content, potentially replacing it with less reliable sources. He also criticised Meta for its lack of accountability.
The study shows strong public support for social media responsibility, with 85 per
cent of Australians agreeing that platforms should prevent the spread of false or harmful information.
Without trustworthy journalism, 66 per cent believe the societal impact would be negative, anticipating increases in misinformation and decreased media diversity.
Mr Miller highlighted the significant impact these findings have on public understanding and the obligations of large tech companies, criticising Meta for avoiding transparency.
This analysis of 2,500 Australians confirms the integral role of social media in their news consumption habits, countering Meta’s underestimations of news relevance on its platform, and exposing the misleading nature
of its claims.
Mr Schreyer further highlighted the implications for democracy.
“Democracy in areas without local news is lost. Who is going to stand up to a council decision that doesn’t meet the pub test? Who is going to shine a light on issues when people don’t have a big enough voice to get their message out?
“The research underscores the vital role that regionalnewspapersplayinprovidingaccurate and diverse perspectives.
“As Australians show a growing dissatisfaction with Meta, the study reaffirms the importance of maintaining a strong and independentlocalpresstoensureaccountability and transparency within communities.”
Country Press Association president Andrew Schreyer.
The ostrich is the world’s largest bird, growing up to 2.7 metres tall and weighing almost 150 kilograms.
Four new ostriches are calling Werribee Open Range Zoo home. (Pictures: Supplied)
Celebrating the magic of reading
Schools, kindergartens, childcare centres and libraries across Melbourne’s northern and western suburbs are celebrating Children’s Book Week. The annual week, which this year runs from August 17-23, celebrates children’s literature. The theme for this year’s celebrations is ‘reading is magic’. Jaidyn Kennedy asked librarians to share their favourite children’s books.
Hobsons Bay librarian
Georgia Ensor
What is your favourite children’s book?
Belonging by Jeannie Baker is one of my favourites (how could you ask a librarian to choose just one book? my head nearly exploded!). I like to read this book with children of all ages. Belonging is a wordless picture book so young children can ’read’ the images and engage with the story at the same level as an older sibling who might notice deeper messages. I love the hopeful message that we can make a positive change to our community through the gradual re-greening of our suburbs.
What is one children’s book everyone should read?
Wilam: A Birrarung Story, written by Yarra Riverkeeper Andrew Kelly and AboriginalElderoftheWurundjeripeople
Aunty Joy Murphy. The book shares both the Indigenous and geographical story of Melbourne’s beautiful Yarra River –Birrarung. The detailed illustrations by Lisa Kennedy sparkle with life! The story invites readers to connect to Country and taketimetostop,lookandthinkaboutthe living history around us. Books that are rooted in local places are really powerful as children feel connected to the story, especially when they spot the Westgate bridge!
Moorabool librarian
Sam Hartwig
What is your favourite children’s book?
The Wrong Book by Nick Bland. This is one of the first books I read to children at story time that ‘breaks the fourth wall’, it quickly became an instant favourite. The illustrations bring the book to life and it’s such a fun story that children of all ages will love. Also, a simple book week costumeideatodressupasNicholasIckle!
What’s one children’s book everyone should read?
The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle. A classic that has never been out of print since it’s release in the 1960’s. It introduces children to many themes such as the days of the week, different foods, counting and the life cycle of a butterfly. A must-have book for all children!
Lalor librarian
Deb Fothergill
What is your favourite children’s book?
My favourite children’s book isThe Gruffalo by Julia Donaldson. It has so much to offer, great rhyming and key words that children remember and anticipate, ‘his eyes are orange, his tongue is black; he has purple prickles all over his (wait for a response from the crowd …) back’. It is a good opportunity to talk about imagination, we know he is not real but that’s OK. There is also a great message about problem solving and how a very little mouse can outsmart a big bad Gruffalo.
What is one children’s book everyone should read?
For me The Hobbit by J.R.R Tolkien is a wonderful read for an older child. It is anintroductiontoanamazingfantasyworld with beautiful language and imagery, a lesson in friendship, honour and adventure.
Romsey Librarian
Rae Good
What is your favourite children’s book? I can’t decide on just one. I’m going with Slinky Malinky Early Bird by Lynley Dodd as a favourite for home use when my own children were smaller, as Slinky Malinky was very similar to our cat. And I love Let’s Get a Pup by Bob Graham for the diversity shown in the illustrations.
What is one children’s book everyone should read?
Again, very difficult to answer, but I really love Wilfred Gordon McDonald Partridge by Mem Fox. The books I will be reading for story time during Children’s Book Week are early childhood book of the year nominees – The Concrete Garden by Bob Graham and One Little Duck by Katrina Germein and Danny Snell.
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
Scone-A-Thon
Woodend CWA is holding a ‘Sconezilla’ to raise money for the community. For $12 pre-order a half-dozen freshly baked scones beautifully presented in a clear lidded gift box. Perfect with homemade jam or lemon curd made by members from local fruit for $4. Gluten free scones also available. Pick up is 7 September from the Woodend Newsagency, 10am - 1pm. Order at:
HTTPS://trybooking.com/CKMKV
Toastmasters
Sunbury & Macedon Ranges Toastmasters helps its members develop their public speaking, communication and leadership skills. The group meets on the first and third Tuesday of each month, from 7.20–9.30pm, at the Sunbury Community Centre, 531 Elizabeth Drive, Sunbury.
vpm-4185@toastmastersclubs.org
Sunbury Seniors
Sunbury Seniors (55 or older) meet on Mondays and Fridays from 10am–3pm. They are temporarily relocating to 531 Elizabeth Drive, Sunbury. A variety of activities are offered – indoor bowls, cards, snooker, guest speakers, day excursions, subsidised lunches or just a cup of coffee and a chat.
0434 400 754
Scout Jamboree fundraising
1st Sunbury Scouts are fundraising to send Scouts to a Jamboree in Maryborough, Queensland in January 2025. Fundraising activities are:
• A Monster Raffle with $2 tickets and 140 prizes. Purchase tickets at: https://scoutsvic.raffletix.com. au/1stsunburyscouts/
• Miniature Train rides at Bulla Hill Railway on Sunday, September 29 from 11am–3pm. Tickets per ride will be $5. There will also be a sausage sizzle and a coffee van. Tickets and info at: https://shoutforgood. com/event-ticketings/1stSunburyJamboree Train. Donations are also welcome.
scoutsjf@gmail.com
One Voice Sunbury
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
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 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
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
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 730pm. Circular drive, Jackson’s Hill, Sunbury. Facebook: Sunbury Woodworkers Club.
Anita, 0417 402 795
VIEW Club
Sunbury-Macedon Ranges VIEW Club is a friendly women’s organisation and a valued part of The Smith Family. 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
Scottish country dancing
The Macedon Ranges Scottish Country Dancing Group meets every Thursday afternoon 1-3pm at Buffalo Stadium, Woodend. The dancing involves social country dancing, and no special clothes needed, just soft flat shoes.
Meg, 5427 1100, or Linda, 0408 476 317
Community. Connect. Create. If you are needing support or looking for a social group to join, you can visit Community. Connect. Create, which is an online resource listing support and community groups in the Macedon Ranges. if you would like your group listed or would like to work to help this project grow please email: fiona@communityconnectcreate. com.au
Communityconnectcreate.com.au
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
Amateur radio club
The Macedon Ranges Amateur Radio Club meets on the third Saturday of the month at the Woodend RSL Hall, 32 Anslow Street, Woodend, at 10am. If you are interested in amateur radio or already have a call sign, this could be for you.
http://www.mrarc.org.au
Take off weight naturally
Struggling to lose weight? Struggling to get motivated? Want to try and do it in a friendly and less stressful atmosphere? Come and join TOWN (Take Off Weight Naturally) every Thursday at 9am at the Sunbury Neighbourhood House, 531 Elizabeth Drive, Sunbury.
Rhonda, 0409 740 924
Kyneton Badminton Club
Kyneton Badminton Club is a welcoming, fun and social group that plays on Mondays, at 7pm at the Kyneton Toyota Sports and Aquatic Centre, Victoria Street. All skill levels are welcome.
kynetonbc@gmail.com
This week’s photographer’s choice is of De’Arne Marshall, who has been at 979 radio for 25 years with a rock’n’roll show. (Damjan Janevski) 424561_01
A colourful Punjabi celebration
By Eddie Russell
Moorabool residents can look forward to a special Punjabi celebration on Sunday, August 25.
Unite Foundation, a Bacchus Marsh based not-for-profit organisation, will host its Teeyan Bacchus Deeyan from noon to 5pm at Bacchus Marsh Public Hall.
Teeyan is a festival that takes place throughout Punjab and focuses on daughters, sisters, and mothers.
ItgoesfromApriltoAugust–atimeinIndia when the onset of the monsoon occurs.
OrganiserNaviNeelonsaidtheoccasionwas
a sort of homecoming for women who had left home to start a family and new life.
“The word Deeyan is like daughters,” she said.“Mymumandherfriendswhowerenewly married used to come back to their parent’s house and get together with old friends, sisters, and mothers.”
The traditional celebrations are a way to reconnect with home and community, said Neelon.
“Whenthemonsooncame,girlscouldgoout and celebrate by dancing and singing – there was no social media [back then].”
“In the old times, girls weren’t let out… so it was a celebration, but now it is a way to leave
your stress at home and have fun.”
The event was originally going to take place at Darley Park Community Centre but due to demand there was a need to upsize the venue.
Neelon said the event was “very beautiful” and that attendees would not go “empty handed”.
“They will come and see that they are in Punjab – there are a lot of prizes and gifts as well as food on offer.”
On top of that, three different dance groups made up of kids, teens, and women will all be there.
Tickets: https://www.trybooking.com/ events/landing/1265621
Mother and son hold joint exhibition
Opening in 2018, Art on Piper gallery in Kyneton displays a rotation of works from its 24 members, with many taking inspiration from the picturesque Macedon Ranges.
It is currently hosting an exhibition featuringtheworksofmotherandson,Gillian and Brad Gorrie.
Gillian’s works depict local landscapes using pen and ink, and Brad’s depict people and animals using vibrant acrylic paints.
Art on Piper president Kathryn Portelli said the gallery, located in the heart of Piper Street,
is a great place to meet local artists and find a unique painting, keychain, or souvenir that captures the Macedon Ranges’ landscape.
“Onehundredpercent…youmeetanartist when you come in. They’re creating on the spot and they talk about that – which means not only have you enjoyed looking for a gift or exploring work, you’re meeting someone whose hands are in the materials,” Kathryn said.
“The whole experience on Piper Street is wonderful and worth coming for.”
The gallery will decorate its front window to incorporate a daffodil theme at the end of this month in recognition of the annual Kyneton Daffodil and Arts Festival.
Art on Piper is open every day except Tuesdays, from 10am until 4pm, at 44 Piper Street, Kyneton.
Gillian and Brad Gorrie’s works will be exhibited until September 3.
Details: artonpiper.com
St Albans Secondary hit the stage
St Albans Secondary College is hitting the stage this week, with a production of We Will Rock You by English playwright Ben Elton.
Set in a post-apocalyptic world, where issues of famine and climate change have been addressed through technology, the remnant human race thrives in settlements designed and run by large corporations.
Working together, putting differences aside and utilising technology, safe settlements were established.
The hero, Galileo, is drawn into rebellion, his dreams lead him along a dangerous path where he encounters a group of misfits – the ‘Bohemians’.
The production includes many of the memorable hit tunes of the English pop band Queen.
Director Melissa Tamraz said she couldn’t wait to have the show unveiled this week.
“Following the success of Cinderella, Time After Time, I was excited to have been appointed as the director of this year’s production for the Musical Appreciation Club (MAC),” she said.
“I took a risk in proposing a show that was more rock concert than musical.
“This year, we have a young cast and crew with many students acting for the first time, some in lead roles.
“MAC has a proud tradition at the school and many past students return each year to contribute or simply to enjoy the show. It is a place where students build confidence, discover hidden talents, make lifelong friends, and learn to value and appreciate the arts.”
Oscar Parry
Dorothy and friends’ concert spectacular
Dorothy and her Wiggly friends will be doing the dippy do dinosaur dance all the way to Wyndham later this year.
The beloved green and yellow dinosaur is touringAustraliafortheDorothytheDinosaur Spectacular Show and will be stopping at Events Encore Centre in Hoppers Crossing for a cup of rosy tea and some top-tapping fun.
Youngsters (and their parents) will be able to Romp-Bomp-a-Stomp to The Wiggles’ greatest hits including Rock-A-Bye Your Bear, Hot Potato and Do the Propeller, with Dorothy and her friends to perform an array of show-stopping songs.
The mega mix of hits is sure to have fans shaking their hips with Wags the Dog,
moving their arms like Henry the Octopus and singing ‘quack, quack’ with Captain Feathersword.
Tickets for the first show at 10am October 1 have sold out with tickets, for a second show now available – but get in quick because they are sure to go like hot potatoes!
The second show is at 12.30pm on October 1.
Seating for this show is general admission and seats are not reserved at the time of booking. Both adults and children will require a ticket. Children under 12 months old will not require a ticket for entry but will be required to sit on the lap of a parent or guardian
Details: https://thewiggles.com/dorothy
The show premiered on Monday, August 19, but plays again on Tuesday, August 20, before one final show on Thursday, August 22.
Shows are at 7pm at the school’s performing arts centre.
Dorothy the Dinosaur is coming to Hoppers Crossing. (Supplied)
Navi Neelon, Kumari Rai, Paramjeet Bagri and Harmel Kaur in their traditional garments for Teeyan. (Damjan Janevski 425336_03
Gerald Lynch
St Albans Secondary students Api and DT, who are part of the We Will Rock You performance. (Damjan Janevski) 425271_05
Art on Piper artists Kathryn, Carolyn, Lisa, Elizabeth, Gayle, Marianne, Shari, Sue, Scott, and Michael. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 424934_01
SPORTS QUIZ
1. Melbourne-born cyclist Neve Bradbury placed third in the 2024 edition of which international race?
2. Which country has won every women’s team archery gold medal since the event’s inception in 1988?
3. Where have the Winter X Games been held every year since 2002?
4. In swimming relays, does the term ‘anchor leg’
6. Sir Donald Bradman scored a total of how many runs in his Test career?
7. Both from the same Australian state, what are the only two AFL clubs that have never used a No.1 draft pick?
8. How old is Australian Olympic gold medallist skateboarder Arisa Trew?
9. Chinese freestyle gold medallist Pan Zhanle accused which Australian swimmer of snubbing him in the opening days of the 2024 Olympics?
Which country is credited with invention of the game darts?
Caitlin Parker and Charlie Senior both won Olympic medals for Australia in what
In snooker, which coloured ball is worth two points?
13. What animal did Arisa Trew's parents agree to buy her as a present for winning gold?
14. Cameron Murray is the current captain of which NRL team?
15. What was the only nation the Matildas defeated at the 2024 Paris Olympics?
16. Test cricketer Graham Thorpe played for which country?
17. Retiring AFL player Andrew Gaff has played his entire career with which team?
18. The GWS Giants play home matches in which other capital city besides Sydney?
19. How many combined Paralympic Games medals did Dylan Alcott win in both wheelchair tennis and wheelchair basketball?
20. RAC Arena is located in which Australian capital city?
21. Australian hockey player Tom Craig was arrested during the Olympics for allegedly buying what?
22. The Australian men’s basketball team lost against Serbia in the quarterfinal at the Olympics despite leading by how many points during the second quarter?
23. Former Australian Test opener Joe Burns now represents which country in international cricket?
24. Which country defeated Egypt 6-0 at the Olympics to win a bronze medal in the men’s soccer event?
25. Nicola Olyslagers won Olympic silver in which event?
26. Port Adelaide thrashed ladder-leaders Sydney by how many points in Round 21 of the AFL?
27. Wayne Bennett will return to which NRL club as head coach beginning in 2025?
28. What is the name of the Big Bash-style T20 cricket tournament being staged during August in the Northern Territory?
29. What are the names of the official mascots of the 2024 Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games?
30. True or false: tennis great Novak Djokovic won his first Olympic gold medal at Paris 2024?
Dylan Alcott
PUZZLES
To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every
from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.
ACROSS
1 Flower (5)
4 Mitigation (9)
9 Thespian (5)
10 Banishment (9)
11 Chore (6)
12 Flirt (8)
14 Railway vehicle (10)
15 Freckle (3)
17 Vegetable (3)
19 Credit card brand (10)
23 Of late (8)
24 Carefree (6)
26 Partner (9)
27 Intending (coll) (5)
28 Ancient Greece’s so-called father of history (9)
29 Cleverly escape (5)
DOWN
1 Stopping devices (6)
2 Canadian province (7)
3 Napoleonic battle (7)
4 Riding (4)
5 Permitted (10)
6 Obliteration (7)
7 Had being (7)
8 Fierce storms (8)
13 Adviser (10)
16 Come nearer to (8)
18 Plaintiff (7)
19 Imperiled (7)
20 Toiletry (7)
21 Domed building (7)
22 Caesar (6)
25 Scottish loch (4)
3
Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural nouns ending in “s”.
Excellent Today’s Aim:
6 words: Good 9 words: Very good 13
I U N
1 What is the silkworm’s preferred food plant?
2 Which former English monarch is known as Good Queen Bess?
3 What are the names of Queen Mary’s (pictured) twins?
4 Who were the inaugural winners of the Nobel Peace Prize in 1901?
5 In which state or territory is the Barkly Tableland located?
6 The 2007 film The Mist is based on a novella by which author?
7 Who composed the opera Don Giovanni?
8 True or false: persimmon is a citrus fruit?
9 Who was the first Australian to play in the NBA?
10 What is the world’s smallest owl?
The carnival seems far from over
By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring
The Carnival continues to be a popular attraction, despite people movers making way for SUVs.
Like Toyota did with Tarago’s radical rebirth as the ‘egg’ in the 1990s, Kia has rewritten the people mover rules to produce a GUV (Grand Utility Vehicle).
The Carnival is quite unlike any car we’ve craftedbefore,saystheSouthKoreancarmaker. Fusing SUV-inspired design with a unique attitude, the Carnival uses progressive styling that boasts an aesthetic like no other.
Featuring a luxurious interior for eight, lavishly equipped with next-generation Kia technology, the Carnival allows driver and passengers to travel in grand comfort and style. “We didn’t just build a people mover; we upgraded it to a GUV (Grand Utility Vehicle).”
The ‘Grandeur’ did not come without its sacrifices: Carnival no longer comes to market under 50 grand and the flagship GT-Line tops off the fleet at $72,910. Choose from SmartStream 3.5-litre V6 petrol or a SmartStream 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine for an efficient everyday drive.
A smooth eight-speed automatic transmission is available on both models. A hybrid, to surface soon, will make use of a 1.6-litre petrol motor.
With five Carnival variants, prices open at $50,150, plus on road costs for the petrol V6 S, while the range tops out at $72,910 for the GT-Line diesel. On test was the GT-Line Lite diesel on offer for $68,580. The GT-Line HEV hybrid will top out the lot at $76,210 when it arrives.
The Carnival continues to be backed by Kia’s seven-year unlimited-kilometre warranty and free one-year roadside assistance.
Styling
The MY25 Carnival may be big, but on the outside, designers were unashamedly worshipping at the altar of modern-day minimalism. It’s smooth going all round, with nary a hint of unnecessary embellishment.
Not that it’s bland, by any means. Kia says it called on the electric EV9 and reworked ICE SUV Sorento with the new car’s pedigree. Unlike other models of its ilk, new Carnival owes more to the SUV than the van.
A broader grille, flanked by vertical LED headlamps, and LED daytime running lights give the Carnival a solid stance, while the clean uncomplicated rear is highlighted by a full width LED strip.
The GUV rides on large 19-inch machined alloy wheels, with styling cues lifted from the EV9. There’s no fighting for attention from laidback chrome styling elements.
Interior
The Carnival is built for transporting big families and their clobber. With improved interior dimensions due to a longer wheelbase, increased length and width, generous leg, head and shoulder room is available all around.
As well as seating for eight, there is still generous luggage space of 627 litres with all seat backs up. Folding down the second and third row exposes an incredible 2827 litres of luggage space. Second-row seats also fold down and slide forward, while a 60:40 split third row gives even greater flexibility.
Power sliding rear doors open automatically afterafewsecondswhenasmartkeyisdetected next to the vehicle. Similarly, power tailgate auto-close shuts automatically when it detects the user with the smart key leaving.
Three-step adjustable ventilated front seats and heated front and rear seats offer a comfortable travelling environment. With 12-way power driver’s seat including four-way lumbar support and two memory settings, preferred exterior mirror and driver seat positions can also be stored.
With Smart Temperature Comfort Control, the car automatically switches on the driver’s heated seat/steering wheel or ventilated seat if there’s a major difference between the climate
control setting and the cabin temperature. Open up the sky for the whole family via split a tilt-and-slide sunroof.
Infotainment
A class-leading 12.3-inch driver instrument clusterand12.3-inchinfotainmenttouchscreen display driving information and data. A user-friendly interface allows pinch, zoom, swipe and customisation with split view.
Over-The-Air technology enables software and map updates directly to the vehicle while on the move. These updates improve key vehicle functions, such as powertrain, steering, suspension, electric motor, battery, airbags, and advanced driver assistance systems.
Keep eyes on the road with the windscreen colour head-up display, focusing on driver alerts, vehicle speed, and turn-by-turn navigation instructions.
Using a camera in the rear spoiler, the digital interior mirror provides improved visibility unhindered by luggage, seats, passengers, water or stains on rear glass. A simple toggle can return the digital image to a standard electro-chromatic mirror if preferred.
Quality sound from a Bose 12-speaker audio can be augmented by distinctive 3-D colour customisable mood lighting. Wireless smartphone fast charging is available, as well as through intuitively placed USB charge ports for outboard passengers.
Engines/transmissions
The four-cylinders inline turbodiesel engine delivers 148kW of power and 440Nm of torque
drivingthefrontwheelsthroughaneight-speed automatic transmission. Kia claims the motor uses 6.5 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres on the combined urban/highway cycle, while putting out carbon dioxide emissions of 170g per 100km.
The test vehicle recorded consumption of 8.2 litresofdieselper100kilometresinthecityand 5.4 litres per 100 kilometres on the open road. The maker recommends the diesel particulate filter system be occasionally ‘cleaned’ by an extended run of consistent higher-speed motoring.
Safety
With the wellbeing of up to eight Carnival occupants, safety is paramount, resulting in a five-star ANCAP rating.
Standard systems include autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian, cyclist, plusjunctiondetection,lanedeparturewarning and lane keeping assistance, blind-spot assist and rear cross-traffic alert. Up front is high beam assist.
On the move there’s adaptive cruise control, intelligent speed limit assist, multi-collision braking and trailer stability control, reversing cameraandfrontandrearparkingsensors,and rear occupant alert. Connected services with SOS call function is at hand for crashes.
Carnival Sport adds Highway Driving Assist 1, while Sport+ and above take on parking collision avoidance – rear (AEB reverse), blind-spot view monitor, 360-degree camera, junction cross, lane oncoming, lane direct avoidance and Highway Driving Assist 2.
Finally,there’ssteering,braking,accelerating and stop-start traffic jam assistance.
Driving
Surprisingly no slouch off the mark, the inevitable diesel engine note did intrude into the cabin, but not enough to be an annoyance. Braking was also more efficient than expected.
As mentioned above, diesel consumption was pretty much in line with the maker’s claim of 6.5 litres per 100 kilometres on the combined cycle, the test car recording 8.2 litresper100kilometresusedincitycommuting and 5.4 litres per 100 kilometres on the open road.
Covid put the kybosh on any Aussie suspensiontuningpreviously,butKiaclaimsto have rectified this with the MY25 model being modified Down Under. It has: ride is smooth and unfussy, handling is impressively akin to that of a smaller vehicle.
Carnival can match any of four different drivingmodes–Normal,Eco,SportandSmart. Finally, there’s the ersatz mode: the drive you’re having when you’re not driving – the GT-Line gets Remote Smart Park Assist, allowing owners to manoeuvre their vehicle out of a tight parking space from outside the car using the key fob. Impressive!
Summary
SUV, move over for the GUV. And, while the GT-Line diesel has many ‘what’s not to love’ features all round, it’s basically down to price differential between the Lite and ‘Heavy’.
The Carnival is built for transporting big families and their clobber. (Pictures: Supplied)
Making lasting finals memories
It was grand final time in the Essendon and Riddell district football leagues women’s competitions on Saturday. It was joy for for Macedon as it claimed its first women’s premiership, while the Sunbury Lions and Kyneton both suffered heartache. Star Weekly’s Ljubica Vrankovic was there to capturetheaction.
The Sunbury Lions. 425635_03
Emily Taylor and Amy Clendenning share a hug. 425635_36
Sunbury Lions’ Alysha Torcutti. 425635_17
Macedon’s Brianna Woodburn and Kyneton’s Ella Jeffrey. 425629_32
Macedon’s Ninna Harbinson. 425629_05
Macedon enjoy the win. 425629_43
Kyneton’s Emily Gibson 425629_11
Sunbury Lions’ Olivia Cornish. 425635_10
Macedon’s Scarlett Lynch. 425629_02
Kyneton congratulate each other. 425629_40
Premiership dream over for the Sunbury Lions
By Tara Murray
TheSunburyLionspremiershipdreamfellshort on Saturday in the Essendon District Football League women’s division 2 competition.
Aiming for their first premiership since 2015, the Lions had a number of challenges throughout the season and leading into the grand final.
Sunbury fought hard in the grand final, but CoburgDistrictswasabletodoenoughtocome away with its first premiership, 3.5 (23)-1.5 (11). Itwasclosealldaywithbothsidesstruggling to hit the scoreboard.
The first goal of the game to Coburg in the second quarter before Sunbury scored its first in the third quarter to reduce the margin to one point at the final break.
Coburg kicked the only two goals of the final quarter to seal the win.
Sunbury coach Matt Tremellen said his group showed so much resilience to get to where they did this season.
“Credit to our girls for their tiresome efforts to compete,” he said. “But also full credit to Coburg Districts, they defended better than we did.
“They gave us no looks at goal and we couldn’t break their defence and I think that was the difference in the game.”
Going into the game, the Lions lost full forward Natachia Abela, who was suspended after the preliminary final.
Acting captain Emily Taylor played the grand final with a broken finger. She wasn’t able to have her usual impact.
Several other key players were also missing through injury.
“Wethrewher[Taylor]inthepockethoping to give us a bit of speed in the forward line and some looks at goal,” Tremellen said.
“She had some looks at it. Losing our key forwards throughout the year we’ve sort of pegged back the goals a little bit.
“We were right in it.”
Sunbury Lions in top two
The Sunbury Lions find themselves better placed than last year heading in the Ballarat Netball League finals.
A win against Darley, which has played off in the past two grand finals, was all but enough to lock in a top two spot.
On Saturday, the Lions made sure of that with an 85-65 win against East Point.
Rebecca Hicks shot 71 goals for the Lions.
Speaking before the match with East Point, Lions coach Kim Bailey said they were pretty happy with how things were tracking.
TheLionssitontopenteringthefinalround.
“Third was great last year but it does disadvantage you at times as well,” she said. “We have a little more confidence as well.
“It[toptwo]givesyoualittlemoreassurance and a double chance. The top three or four, anyone is a chance.”
The Lions win against the Devils was an
important one, not only in terms of ladder position but confidence heading into finals.
Lani Fauonuku and Elly Randall both missed the game, with Mackenzie Wood again stepping up from B-grade and showing she belongs at that level.
Bailey said her goaling combination of Bec Hicks and Tara O’Grady were on fire.
“We got it out to 14 goals at one stage and then we relaxed a little bit,” she said. “We can not take the foot off the pedal.”
“It was also Tayla Honey’s first full game for the season.”
Bailey said they would continue to work Honey back to full fitness after missing several weeks through injury.
She said Honey was still a bit underdone.
“We’re easing her back in,” she said. “We didn’t push her that hard.
“She’s getting some game fitness under her
Sunbury had some chances to put the pressure on Coburg, none bigger just before three quarter time.
Taylor had space and could have had a shot, but decided to pass and it didn’t come off.
Coburg then had a little more composure to get the job done in the final quarter.
Taylor was the goal scorer for Sunbury.
Tremellen said he was proud of what the group had been able to achieve this year.
“Since I came in the plan has been to get the club going back in the right direction and get the numbers to really set up the future,” he said.
“Allofoureffortsallthegirlsthathavecome through and contributed getting us here, just to be here is an achievement for us.
“Grand finals are hard to win... We didn’t get it done, but we will be back next year.”
The future is bright for Sunbury.
The under-18s made a preliminary final, with several playing in the senior grand final as well, while their under-16s made the grand final as well.
“What we’ve got coming through and what we’ve got coming through behind that after that... Will make it exciting times.”
Sports shorts
Ballarat FL
Sunbury Lions’ tough run has continued with a loss to East Point on Saturday in the Ballarat Football League. The Lions led at quarter time but kicked just three goals for the rest of the game, losing 15.5 (95)-.8 (50). Brock Landt and Nathan Doyle were named the Lions best. The Lions sit in fifth spot heading into the final round against Bacchus Marsh. They can finish anywhere between fourth and sixth.
EDFL
A final round win against Tullamarine wasn’t enough for Rupertswood to survive relegation in Essendon District Football League division 1. The Sharks finished their season with a 21.17 (143)-12.12 (84) win against Tullamarine. Clayton Bonello and Aaron West kicked six goals apiece with Matt Castle and West named their best. To stay up in division 1, the Sharks also needed Roxburgh Park to suffer a big loss to Craigieburn. That match ended in a draw.
FV
Gisborne’s hopes of promotion suffered a massive hit in FV state league 5 west. Coming off a loss the previous week, the Sky Blues suffered a shock 2-1 loss to Tarneit United on Saturday afternoon. The Sky Blues slip to fourth with the loss and are now four points behind second which has played one less game.
RDFNL
beltbutwe’restillmanagingherload.Sheadds an extra dimension to our side and Simona [Di Filippo] plays a different game when Tayla is out there.”
The Lions finish their regular season on Saturday against bottom side Bacchus Marsh.
Bailey said they would look to use the game to try some things.
“It might give us the opportunity to give somemoreoftheothersabitofarun,”shesaid.
“Ava Hellyer is in B-grade, Emily Conn is another who might get a run.
“We have a great relationship with Bacchus Marsh, it should be a good day.”
The Lions are likely to have four of their six netball teams in finals.
Having only had three sides on the court a couple of years ago, Bailey said it was a really good achievement.
- Tara Murray
Finals match ups are locked in for the Riddell District Football Netball League. In the senior football, Riddell has the week off, while Diggers Rest will face Wallan in the qualifying final. Romsey and Macedon will play in an elimination final. In the A-grade netball, Wallan and Riddell will play in the qualifying final and Macedon will face Melton Centrals in the elimination final. Woodend-Hesket has the week off. The qualifying finals will be held on Saturday at Romsey Park and the elimination finals on Sunday at Diggers Rest Recreation Reserve.
FOR MORE SPORT, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au
Sunbury & Macedon Ranges Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly
Sarah Croft. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 418824_15
Audrey Follett was outstanding for the Sunbury Lions. (Ljubica Vrankovic)_425635_24
Woodend-Hesket ready to face tough finals test
Woodend-Hesket is keeping things as normal aspossibleaheadoftheRiddellDistrictNetball League finals.
The Hawks have the bye in the final round and having already secured the minor premierships which means they will also have the first week of finals off.
Hawks coach Ty Coppinger said they weren’t taking anything for granted at this stage of the season.
“I think with the competition being as close as it is, it’s fantastic to finish there,” she said. “But we know that the competition has been really close this year so we’ve still got plenty of work to come the next few weeks in finals.”
Coppingersaidtheytakethesituationthey’re in with two weeks without matches. She said it doesn’t mean that the hard work will stop.
“We’ll just try and keep relatively the same routine,” she said. “Rather than have that time off.
“Just make sure that we keep the same
routine getting the girls together. Not much really changes to be honest.”
After a slow start the reigning premiers have built into the season. The side struggled to get their full team together for most of the season.
Coppinger said that had come together the last three weeks.
She said they had been able to refine a few things and started to put some better performances together.
“It has been really nice to get everyone there on the same day,” she said. “Also just to be able to run a bunch of different combinations and see how all of those work, which has been nice.
“We’ve got a lot of versatility amongst all the girls and everyone is just happy to be there and be together, I’m very lucky from that perspective.”
Coppinger said the group was always focusing on what was next to ensure they stayed switched on.
The Hawks bring a similar line up into finals
as what they had last year when they broke through for their first premiership.
Many of the other sides in finals have different sides to what they had last season and are playing finals together for the first time.
Coppinger said it does help having the existing connection.
“The connection we have as players on the court, but also being a group that has been together off the court, does hold us in good stead,” she said.
“Whenthegoingdoesgettoughandinfinals sometimes you don’t know what to expect I would hope that bond that we kind of have and the connections we’ve built over the last 12 months, two years, is really going to help us the next few weeks.”
It’sbeenagoodseasonfortheHawkswithall five netball teams to play finals.
Coppinger said it was a massive achievement for the club.
Tara Murray
300 and out for Waters
By Tara Murray
Growing up, Tom Waters had never heard of Lancefield let alone the local football club and the Riddell District Football League.
Having had success on the footy field growing up, Waters’ football career took a different direction when he met his now wife..
“She lived in Lancefield,” Waters recalls. “Her brother played at Lancefield and that is how it started.
“I’dalwayswantedtoplaycountryfootball.”
The decision would lead to the beginning of a long career in the Macedon Ranges.
On Saturday, he played his 300th senior game, which also happened to be his last.
“Since I was 14, footy has been a twelve month a year activity for me,” he said. “My whole life has always worked around footy.
“I am looking forward to not having to organise things around footy for once. To spend some more time with the kids will be good, they miss out on a lot of time with me with all the hours I put into footy.”
Waters started playing at the Bulleen Templestowe Bullants in the Yarra Junior Football League before playing seniors and TAC Cup.
Hewonhisfirstbestandfairestinunder-10s and his first premiership in under-17s.
Waters first foray into senior football was in 2005.
“I was playing at Oakleigh [in the TAC Cup] at the time,” he said. “I wasn’t going to get a game this week so I called the coach at Bulleen Templestowe who I had only met once and said I was available.
“He put me straight into the seniors. I got to the game about two hours before the start and met all my teammates for the very first time.
“I went out and played a full game in the ruck without swapping and knew only about three names of teammates.”
WatersmadeaninstantimpactatLancefield.
It took a while to get used to the league, with the skill level not at the level where he had been playing beforehand.
Waters said it was about going in and winning the ball yourself.
He won the league’s best and fairiest, the Bowen Medal, in 2008 before winning it again in 2010.
Waters doesn’t remember the first of those award nights.
“My first Bowen night is a bit of a blur, we weren’t in finals and it was unlimited spirits all night so we had a few,” he said. “I just thought I had been invited for team of the year and thought nothing about Bowen. I do remember with three rounds of votes to go I couldn’t lose and Trav Smith standing on his chair yelling for me to go on stage now.
“I then spent the next few minutes while they finished the vote count trying to drink a
whole jug of water as fast as I could.”
Waters was also part of the premiership teamin2009whentheyknockedofffavourites Romsey, which included Gary Moorcroft.
“It was a fairly hot day and I remember during the third quarter their ruckman was starting to cramp up,” Waters said.
“I just ran past him and yelled “I’m just starting to warm up”. I knew from that point on we weren’t going to lose.”
From the Tigers, Waters made the move to Gisborne in the Bendigo Football League in 2011 to test his game at a higher level.
The Bulldogs had a couple of near misses, but Waters cemented his spot as one of the premier rucks in the state earning call ups for the Victoria Country side twice.
“As personal honours go, that is the top one for me,” he said. ‘Having Peter Knights present my jumper and say I’m the number
Jamie Lobb steps down
By Tara Murray
Jamie Lobb will finish up as Diggers Rest coach at the end of the season, with one of the competition’s best players named as his replacement.
The Riddell District Football League club announced on Friday that Lobb had decided not to continue on next season.
“Jamie and the club have been discussing his tenure throughout the season and while our preference was to maintain Jamie in the role, he has indicated that he would like to spend more time with his family,” the club said in a statement.
“Fortunately for the club Jamie will not be lost to us, and he has committed to staying involved with the club in an off-field role for season 2025 and beyond.
“Jamie has an incredible record as senior coach and in the four completed seasons (two cancelled and one pending) that Jamie has led the club we have had two senior premierships, three reserves premierships and a runner up which highlightsthestrengthoftheclubduring his reign.
“Jamie has also been a great support to the committee during his tenure and has always worked hard on sponsorship, functions and anything else the club required from him.
“We feel comfortable in saying that nobody has had a bigger impact on the club since he took over as coach in what has been a very successful period.”
While Lobb is stepping back, Shaun Campbell will take over as a coach.
one ruck that year. There’s no higher honour.”
Waters returned to the RDFL in 2016, joining Macedon.
He said they were confident of getting a flag which they did in 2017.
“When the siren went and the ball was in my hands I threw it up in the air to celebrate, he said. “I wish now I had thrown it under my jumper and kept it.”
Waters later returned to Lancefield as captain-coach in 2020 to help his old club get back on its feet.
He said the club has come so far in the past five years and it was only the beginning.
Waters admits that he will miss playing.
He doesn’t think he’ll be lost to the sport forever.
“I’ll have a year off and do nothing,” he said. “One day I’ll probably get back into coaching.”
Campbelljoinedtheclubthisyearfrom Parkside and had an instant impact. His coaching background involves being an assistant coach for the Western Bulldogs AFLW program.
“Shaun has a strong reputation as a leader and has had success in previous coaching roles at Wagga Tigers as well as recent experience at the elite level,” the Burras said.
“After joining us earlier this year Shaun has impressed everyone with his football nous, relationship building and commitment to his preparation.
“Shaun and the club are extremely excited about the role and will look to make further announcements about playersre-signings,assistantcoachesand recruits in the coming weeks.”
On Saturday, the Burras suffered a shock loss to Melton Centrals.
Sarah Duff. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 420262_11
Tom Waters. (Glenn Williams)
Gallant Tigers fall short in a grand final thriller
Kyneton threw absolutely everything at Macedon but fell agonisingly short of a second straight Riddell District Football League women’s premiership.
While the Tigers went in as red hot favourites to last year’s decider, they were the underdogs this time round having not beaten the Cats this year.
After a slow start the Tigers worked their way back into the grand final and took the lead in the third quarter.
The Cats then kicked three goals in a row to lead by 13 points with three and half minutes to go.
It was far from game over, with the Tigers kicking the next two goals to reduce the margin to one point.
The Cats were able to hold on and win, 5.8 (38)-6.1 (37).
Tigers coach Phil Hawkes said they thought
they had a chance in the final quarter.
“I thought when it was coming into the last quarter, I knew that seemed to be the scoring end and I was confident that we could come over the top and we almost did.
“When we got that 50 metre and we got withinthepointandstilltwoandabitminutes to go, I thought we could actually do it.
“But Macedon to their credit they got it out on the far side and they just bottled it up and the minutes went by and they finished up a point in front.”
ItwastheCatsthatgotoffaflyerbutcouldn’t convert on the scoreboard, kicking 2.7 for the first quarter.
Hawkes had said in the lead up to the game that he knew his side could come from behind and get back into a game.
“We always believe that we can come back and we did and we levelled it,” he said. “Then
they hit the lead and we come back again.
“It was a great game. I think the league would be very happy with this game and this time the tables were turned unfortunately for us.”
Laura Roberts kicked three goals for the Tigers and was really dangerous in the middle two quarters.
Co-captain Teagan Ainslie was awarded the best on ground medal.
Hawkes said the loss would motivate the group with several players and that the belief is there to be there again next year.
Adding to the Tigers confidence is the talent coming through the youth girls side.
Hawkes said they had focused on bringing some of those girls up this year at the right time.
“I’m happy with what is coming through.”
Cats claim their first premiership
By Tara Murray
Macedon held its nerve late to hold off Kyneton to claim its first Riddell District Football League women’s premiership.
After making a surprise grand final in their first season last year, the Cats had been the best side all season this year.
They hadn’t lost a game for the season with the only blemish a draw against Kyneton the first time they met.
Two convincing wins against the Tigers since, including in the first week of the finals, had the Cats full of confidence.
The match could have been close to over at quartertimehadtheCatskickedstraight.They were 2.7 at quarter time having dominated the game.
From there it was an arm wrestle.
The Tigers got back into the game and had the lead on more than one occasion,
When Charlotte Noonan kicked her first goal of the match to put the Cats up by 13 late in the final quarter, it seemed the Cats had done enough.
There was still time left in the story with the Tigers kicking two goals to bring it back to one point.
Macedon was able to hold on to win 5.8 (38)-6.1 (37).
Cats coach Damien Slater said he can’t
believe how far this side has come in the past two seasons..
“It’s pretty amazing, to firstly get a team up,” he said. “We had three players turn up for training and then ended up getting a few and then we made a grand final unexpectedly.
“We performed pretty well last year.
“This year we had a few girls come from Gisborne and it helped us a bit, helped us for numbers.
“We probably weren’t flush for numbers either. For that to happen and then to win it like this, it’s good for the girls
“They worked pretty hard all year”
Slater said they knew that it was a going to be a tough grand final despite having had a couple of good wins against the Tigers,
He said it was a credit to the girls that they were able to respond when they needed to.
“We were obviously favourites coming in andthatalwaysbringsusafairbitofpressure,” he said. “The girls felt that halfway through the game, but then to their credit they rallied and stuck it out.
“I was very nervous though.”
Slater said looking back at the first quarter that they could have put the game away to a certain extent.
He said they had spoken to the girls before the game that it would ebb and flow throughout.
“I knew Kyneton were very strong around the ball,” he said. “So I knew if they got their hands on the ball first, we could have been in a bit of trouble.
“The second and third quarters that is exactly what they did.”
The last quarter was a real arm wrestle. When Noonan, the competition’s leading goal kicker finally scored, the Cats found themselves in a good position.
Slater was full of praise for how Noonan fought through a tough night.
“I said to her at quarter time, you’re going to
be marked, you’ve kicked a lot of goals they’ve going to put a lot of time into you,” he said.
“All I want to do is provide a contest... I said it will come and she got one.”
Slater said when that goal went through they were in control of the game before the Tigers fought back and pushed it to the wire.
Lilli Collins kicked two goals for the Cats, while Ninna Harbinson, Scarlett Lynch and Noonan were named their best.
Kyneton’s Teagan Ainslie was awarded the best on ground medal.
The win caps off Slater’s time as coach at the Cats.
Having moved to Echuca he has spent a lot of time travelling back and forth.
“I’llgivesomeoneelseago,”hesaid.“Where the club is at they need a different voice and probably someone, who can give it more time, more structure and more focus.
“Hopefully given the next coach a good crew to work with.”
While Slater is set to depart the club, the future is bright.
“We’ve got the junior girls grand final tomorrow [Sunday],” he said. “That is great.
“Thepathwayiscomingthrough,thebeauty about it is the girls we’ve got playing in the youth girls wouldn’t have a pathway without this side.
“We’ve got 10 girls coming up next year.”
Tara Murray Jorja Bennett. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 425629_29
Macedon celebrates. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 425629_35
Ruby Watts. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 425629_23
