New garden honours Mel
Sunbury Heights Primary School unveiled a new music garden, funded by the school community to commemorate a former staff member.
The garden was built to honor Mel Brand, a beloved education support staff member who died two years ago. She was the driving force behind the school’s choir and performing arts program.
The music garden features a xylophone with a sheet music stand and other garden-themed percussion instruments.
School business manager Liz O’Donovan described Ms Brand as a “colourful, bright, bubbly, loud, and loving woman” who greatly enhanced the school’s performing arts.
The garden was funded through various community events, including Mother’s and Father’s Day stalls, a colour run, and cookie and pie drives.
Principal Laban Toose said it was a passion project to memorialise Ms Brand’s memory, as she was a keen performer and musician.
“It was one where an idea grew into a reality through the goodwill and the efforts of a number of different people,” Mr Toose said.
Oscar Parry
Pokie policy disappoints
Kyneton bowlers say they are “deeply disappointed“ with Macedon Ranges’ new gambling policy, which will force the club to get rid of its poker machines.
Under the new Gambling Harm Mimimisation policy those leasing council-owned or managed land will be forced to divest themselves of electronic gambling machines (EGMs) and their EGM licence.
Kyneton Bowling Club committee chairperson Paula Adams said the divestment clause“ultimatelyputsusinareallychallenging position”.
“We simply don’t have the volunteer capacity to take on the extensive amount of work that’s required to … run the club without the gaming machines,” Ms Adams said.
“We’re about to commence some strategic
planning, and we’ll look at all sorts of options but … a club like that cannot function on cake stalls and sausage sizzles. We’re happy for peopletogiveussomesuggestions,butnothing sort of jumps out at us immediately.”
She said hospitality as a revenue source is not a viable alternative and that the club’s bistro is contracted to a third-party vendor.
Ms Adams said the community will “miss out” as revenue from the bowling club’s gambling machines has funded sponsorships for sporting clubs, a community bus service, and in-kind support to charity events at the club premises.
Ms Adams said community consultation on the policy was “very lacking” and would have preferred more direct consultation with the club as the key organisation affected by the
Appliance Repair
policy.
“I’m happy for their policy … [but] it’s more about us being targeted, and I don’t think removing them from the bowling club is going to have the desired effect … it’s more about taking it out of their backyard.”
The council put its draft policy out for community consultation in March through its YourSay platform. Of the responses, 31 were supportive and 36 were unsupportive.
Councillors discussed the draft policy at their meeting on August 28 including the controversial clause requiring those leasing council-owned or managed land to divest themselves of EGMs and their EGM licence.
The policy required council to discuss the divestment implications with organisations leasing council-owned land two years prior
to the lease expiring, with a new lease stating conditions and a timeframe for an agreed transition period.
At the August 28 meeting, councillor Mark Ridgeway raised an amended policy that only required discussing the implications of the policy with lessees and encouraging them to plan for and relinquish their EGM licence and divest themselves of EGMs over an agreed timeframe.
Then mayor Cr Annette Death said the change created “zero obligation for action to be taken”.
Cr Jennifer Anderson also voted in favour of the original rather than the amended policy.
Continued: Page 3.
Sunbury Heights Primary School principal Laban Toose, event organiser Liz Troost, and students Edie, Orlando, Nash, Ella, Autumn, and Dallas. Damjan Janevski) 431988_02
Visitors enticed to take a break
By Oscar Parry
Daylesford Macedon Tourism launched a new campaign aimed at drawing attention to local businesses and promoting the region’s tourism industry.
Titled ‘Come Back to Life’, the campaign aims to protect the region’s tourism economy, which according to the organisation, has recently been affected by reduced visitor numbers and spending due to cost of living pressures.
The campaign has received funding from tourism operators, Macedon Ranges council,
and Hepburn council.
Daylesford Macedon Tourism chief executiveSteveWroesaidthattheorganisation was excited to launch the campaign.
“Our region is all about rejuvenation, and that’s what a lot of people need now more than ever. Access to nature. A spa indulgence. A cosy [bed and breakfast]. A wholesome meal and glass of wine,” Mr Wroe said.
“We are 100 per cent focused on converting visitorstoplanatripnow,deliveringvisitorsto the doors of our many tourism and hospitality businesses. When businesses start closing, you must adapt.”
“Weareconfidentthatreachingstressed-out and busy Melburnians, reminding them that they need a break, while showcasing our natural assets, amazing visitor offers, and proximity to Melbourne, will help boost visitor numbers.”
Oneofthetourismoperatorsinvolvedinthe campaign is Hanging Rock Winery.
Hanging Rock Winery general manager and owner Ruth Ellis said that she has noticed visitors spending less at the winery as the cost of living has risen.
ShesaidthattheMacedonRangesregionisa great option for a day trip or weekend getaway.
430872_01
Encouraging men to stand together
Macedon Ranges Suicide Prevention Action Group (MRSPAG) will host a community event next month aimed at promoting men’s mental health and suicide prevention.
Titled Stand Together, the night-time event will be hosted at the Mount Macedon Golf Club and will involve a free barbecue, a talk offered by paralympic triathlete Liam Twomey, and an opportunity for men to share their experiences in a comfortable environment.
Receiving funding from Wesley LifeForce and the state health department, the event will address topics such as grief, loss, and mental wellness.
MRSPAG volunteer and peer support lead Noelene Ward said that in recognition of the benefits of peer support and community, the eventaimstopromotethiskindofconnection.
“We know how helpful it is when people share their experiences … this is trying to create a safe space for blokes to do that,” Ms Ward said.
She said that guest speaker Liam Twomey was invited to talk after he spoke at a previous MRSPAG event.
“His mental health journey is quite inspiring, and it stems from grief,” she said.
Ms Ward said that she hopes the event will promote a sense of community and the
Works resume in Lancefield
Contractors will continue works on the Lancefield Children’s Centre, after cultural heritage approvals were completed.
Works paused on the new kindergarten and maternal and child health service centre after a cultural artefact was found on-site.
Since the artefact was discovered, project manager of the Victorian School Building Authority(VSBA)hasbeenworkingalongside Traditional Owners and Macedon Ranges to assess the site, recently receiving approval to resume works.
Macedon Ranges community director Maria Weiss said that it was important that the cultural heritage process was not rushed in respect of the artefact found.
“We know how important it is to collaboratively work alongside our First
Nations stakeholders, and as soon as the discovery was made, it was essential that the VSBA took the time to complete further due diligence,“ Ms Weiss said.
“Council appreciates the patience of all involved in this process – from land managers and the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation, to current and potential kinder families – and we look forward to opening the new facility to the community next year.“
The centre was officially named ‘The Lancefield Childrens Centre’, after a consultation period where children enrolled at Lancefield Kindergarten were presented with a list of proposed names to vote on.
Works will resume this month, with the centre set to be completed by mid-2025.
“You don’t need to stay overnight … if you can, it’s always a lovely idea. If you wanted a nice day out and a time to relax and a time to rejuvenate and get back into your busy lives, then a trip to the … Macedon Ranges is definitely what you need,” Ms Ellis said.
“These days, everyone’s lives are pretty stressful; everyone’s always on the go, and there are a lot of pressures – not [just] on everyone’s funds but time.”
Daylesford Macedon Tourism is the official regional tourism organisation responsible for promoting the Daylesford and Macedon Ranges area.
messages that “there are people out there who understand and are willing to help, and … there are ways to help each other.”
Attendees will receive brochures and fact sheets listing resources for mental health support and training opportunities and a gift bag.
The event will start at 6.30pm on Thursday, October 24 at the Mount Macedon Golf Club.
Details: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/ stand-together-a-community-event-tosupport-mens-mental-health-and-suicidetickets-1003312423467?aff=oddtdtcreator
“On the VCCC’s website, $24,903 was spent on poker machines per day in the Macedon Ranges in 2023. In the 23–24 year, $9.695 million was lost by players,” she said.
The policy also prevents council from providing funding to community group activities if that same activity also receives gambling-derived funding.
“What we are doing with this policy is saying if a community group does want to take some funding from council, if for that same activity or event or publication, they also want to take funding from gaming machines, then we are saying we cannot co-brand – that is not what we’re about,” Cr Anderson said.
Cr Ridgeway’s amended policy was adopted by council but then rescinded at theSeptember16meetingbyCrChristine Walker who said she had misunderstood Cr Ridgeway’s motion and felt that other councillors had too.
Cr Walker put forward the final policy, which altered the wording of the original policy to state that should the leasee renew the lease, the new lease will clearly state the conditions and timing for the divestment of the EGMs, beginning no later than five years into the new lease and concluding at a maximum period of ten years.
Cr Ridgeway and Cr Anderson both voted against the final policy. All other councillors voted in favour.
MacedonRangescouncilwascontacted for comment, however it advised Star Weekly that it was not currently in a position to respond in consideration of the council election period.
Macedon Ranges Suicide Prevention Action Group (MRSPAG) volunteers Joel Moody, Marcus Ward and Gerry Leahy at the Mount Macedon Golf Club. (Damjan Janevski).
Oscar Parry
‘Weak’ crash case thrown out
By Emily Woods, AAP
A magistrate has criticised prosecutors as he threw out their “weak“ case against a diabetic driver who ploughed into and killed five people seated in a beer garden.
Mount Macedon man William Swale, 66, had all 14 charges against him struck out on Thursday following a three-day committal hearing in Ballarat Magistrates Court over the deadly November 2023 crash. He had been facing five charges of culpable driving causing death, two of negligently causing serious injury, and seven counts of engaging in reckless conduct by driving a motor vehicle with low blood glucose levels.
The type-1 diabetic, who was diagnosed in 1994, suffered a severe hypoglycaemic episode and passed out while driving his white BMW SUV when it crashed into patrons outside the Royal Daylesford Hotel.
About 6.07pm on November 5, Swale mounted a kerb and drove into patrons seated in the pub’s beer garden.
Diabetes experts, police, paramedics, and a witness who found Swale sitting behind the wheel looking “wasted“ within one minute of the crash, all gave evidence.
About half an hour before the crash, he tried to get a seat at a deli but was turned away as it was too busy. His blood sugar levels plummeted from 7.8 to 2.9 within about two
hours, the court was told. Following the crash, a paramedic found Swale was below 1.1, which the court heard meant he was close to going into a coma or dying.
His barrister, Dermot Dann KC, asked the court to discharge the case against Swale as his client was unconscious at the time of the collision due to suffering a “severe hypoglycaemic attack”.
Prosecutor Jeremy McWilliams said Swale was a long-term diabetic who should have been aware of the risks of his blood sugar levels declining.
However, Magistrate Guillaume Bailin discharged the entire case, as he said there was notenoughevidencetosupportaconvictionby
a jury on any of the 14 charges.
“The evidence is so weak that the prospects of conviction are minimal,“ he told the court.
The magistrate was critical of the way the Crown had framed their case against Swale, which was that his negligence period began at 5.36pm and not earlier that day.
“This was about one issue - were the actions of the accused from 5.36pm voluntary?” he said. “From 5.36pm, the accused was suffering a severe hypoglycaemic episode, the result of which his actions of driving were non-voluntary. No hypothesis of guilt is open given how the Crown have made their case.”
Swale, who was previously on bail, walked free from court.
Giant praise for Boilerhouse youth production
Sunbury’s Boilerhouse Theatre Company held its final performance of Roald Dahl’s ‘The BFG’ on Saturday, involving a giant effort from local youth.
Adapted into a children’s play by David Wood, the story follows the BFG (Big Friendly Giant) who collects and gives dreams to children, including an orphan named Sophie, who soon befriends him.
With actors’ ages ranging from eight to 16, production manager Becca McAliece said that the play helped them to develop as performers and people.
“Being able to be themselves during rehearsals [and] also transform into these wonderful little actors – they’ve all grown up and gained so much confidence, and you can just see how much they’ve changed over the last couple of months,” Ms McAliece said.
“It’s such a heart-warming experience.”
Ms McAliece said that the actors enjoyed performing an adaptation of the well-known Roald Dahl story.
“Roald Dahl is such an incredible writer … there are a lot of strange and wonderful words … a very Dr Seuss-esque kind of thing where the BFG doesn’t speak real English.”
Auditions were held over two weekends, with the actors involved then rehearsing the play for several months.
The lead roles of Sophie and the BFG were double-cast, meaning that the actors of these roles alternated each night.
The opening performance was held on September 6, with the final show performed on Saturday, September 21 in Building 22 at Jackson’s Hill, Sunbury.
Oscar Parry
Artist flies the creative nest
Macedon Ranges sculptor Charlie Aquilina will showcase his work at the Sculptures in the Garden exhibition in New South Wales next month.
The design of his piece, Mudgee Nest in the Hills, was envisioned during a sleepless night delivering work at last year’s Mudgee exhibit and resulted in a beautifully crafted sculpture of a rustic bird’s nest resting on a glossy basalt surface.
This piece will be displayed among 250 artworks in the not-for-profit exhibition. Mr Aquilina is one of 130 talented artists contributing from across Australia.
Having perfected his craft over 20 years, Mr Aquilina said that sculpting is a meditative, immersive process for him, and that he finds becoming absorbed in the artistry deeply fulfilling.
“Getting lost in time and getting so involved that you sometimes don’t know what you’ve
done or where the past five hours have gone is really enjoyable,” he said.
In looking back at his older pieces, Mr Aquilinasaidthathestillfeelsadeepconnection.
Despite his constant experimentations with new projects and techniques, he said that he still sees himself in his earlier artworks, and is fascinated by the way the community has accepted them.
“When I have pieces on display in a public space,youcanseewherepeopleputtheirhands on the work because it’s got a different sheen and that’s rewarding because it’s sort of drawn people to actually engage with the work.”
Injured at work?
The Sculptures in the Garden exhibition runs from October 12-27. Other works by Mr Aquilina can be found publicly across the Macedon Ranges and Melton as well as at local wineries and galleries.
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No one wants to get injured at work, but, unfortunately it still happens. If you’ve been injured in the course of your employment, do you know your rights and entitlements?
WorkSafe provides cover for injured Victorian workers to claim:
Medical and rehab benefits
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Lump sum impairment benefit
(regardless of fault)
Damages for negligence
Let us get you your full entitlements to help get back you on your feet.
A group of Boilerhouse Theatre Company actors performing David Wood’s adaption of Roald Dahl’s ‘The BFG’. (Supplied).
Macedon Ranges sculptor Charlie Aquilina with his creation, Mudgee Nest in the Hills. (Supplied)
‘‘ Do not allow yourself ever, ever to sit in a situation where you are feeling impoverished and overwhelmed ’’
- Maria Ruberto
Seminar offers safe space to talk
By Afraa Kori
Young women impacted by mental health can expect a brighter future, thanks to a partnership between Werribee Rotary Club and MacKillop College.
They held an annual seminar on September 12 featuring diverse speakers and panellists, including clinical psychologist Maria Ruberto, Matilda’s midfielder Alex Chidiac and Mackillop’s student councillor Samantha Zahra. There was also a special performance by a young local singer Taysha Farrugia.
Ms Ruberto said the community valued preventative behaviours, but actions speak louder than words.
“We are in the middle of an epidemic where we are seeing that mental health issues for our young people and even across our lifespan seems to be rising. With all of our efforts and especially on the day where we ask each other R U OK? There seems to be an anomaly, there seems to be a difference between what we are trying to do and yet what our data is telling us,” she said.
“We have so many resources available to us; counsellors, psychologists, free online programs, school and community support.”
While the NAB Health Insights Special Report may be “hard to hear”, Ms Ruberto gave attendees a reality check regarding the wellbeing of the nation and community.
According to the report, one in five Australians are diagnosed with a mental health disorder.
One in three people may not have the diagnosis but they are suffering really high psychological distress, the report found.
Seven in 10 young Australians between 18 and 24 needed professional mental health support in the last year, according to the report, while one in four Australians suffer anxiety and depression chronically.
Females and young people between 18 and 24, are twice as likely to report poor mental health, including those in rural and regional areas.
Ms Ruberto highlighted personal responsibility and collective action are key elements of change.
“Reach out, talk to somebody, see your GP and counsellor, connect to people at school, go online and call support line numbers.
“Do not allow yourself ever, ever to sit in a situation where you are feeling impoverished and overwhelmed, if it’s more than two weeks that’s a real marker. Support is required and it’s so important to be able to get help as early as possible,” she said.
“The triangle check is an easy way for you to try and think about where am I mentally? The triangle check has three points; thoughts, feelings and behaviours. So if our thoughts, feelings and our behaviours are all in check we call this good mental health. This is a really easy way of doing it and I hope you will never forget this!”
Athlete Alex Chidiac reassured young women that she walked in their shoes and saw a light at the end of the tunnel.
“It was definitely tough growing up because there were a lot of expectations. I did get scouted at quite a young age and there was not a lot of hope as people didn’t really make it
out of Adelaide as a professional footballer,” she said. “I was really closed off as a kid and I didn’t like talking about how I was feeling. It would seem from the outside that I was doing well because I was making these teams and I was going away to Asian Championships with national youth teams and things like that. But I was really struggling and once I mentioned it to one of my friends and they were like ‘me too’. That’s when I realised everyone’s struggling and it’s so normal to feel that way. Even now as a 25 year old, I get anxious and nobody in this room has it together, all of us are winging it.
“My grandma came to Australia not speaking any English and found her community in Adelaide and built that up. I think growing up around that and watching what she was able to achieve, how her friends helped her out in that, I really loved that sense of community. It wasn’t until I got into football that I had that. So having teammates that you can rely on, people that you can open up to, I think that’s where that connection was for me. It’s just being with people, even if you don’t necessarily have to speak, just the comfort of sitting with somebody and sharing.”
To foster ongoing growth, MacKillop’s student wellbeing director, Andrew Exton, encouraged students to never miss out on future opportunities to attend the annual mental health seminar.
“The seminar provides a safe space where people can discuss the unique challenges young women and girls experience with regards to their mental health and wellbeing. We hope the information discussed tonight both assists and inspires but also challenges us to care a little bit more about ourselves and each other.”
Maria Ruberto, Alex Chidiac, Samantha Zahra and Taysha Farrugia making a difference.
President of Rotary Clu Robert Fava united with Wyndham councillors Jasmine Hill, Peter Maynard and Susan McIntyre.
Sunbury resident Bertha ‘Betty’ Williams’ 105th birthday was celebrated with plenty of balloons, cake, and tea. (Supplied).
Betty’s 105th milestone
Sunbury centenarian Bertha ‘Betty’ Williams celebrated her 105th birthday, enjoying cake and tea to celebrate the significant milestone.
Ms Williams was born in Bristol, England in 1919, and turned 105 on September 11.
Her first job was with Fry’s Chocolates, before she married, had children, and then movedtoAustraliain1968toworkforCadbury chocolate company.
A resident of Bolton Clarke Riddell Gardens in Sunbury, her birthday was celebrated with balloons, flowers, birthday cards, and cake and tea shared with residents and family members.
Bolton Clarke Riddell Gardens lifestyle managerFionaMichielinsaidthatMsWilliams is a resilient and sociable person.
“She lost her husband in 1985 … she gained the strength to create a life out of the shadows and joined the local swimming academy,“ Ms Michielin said.
“It was here that she made very valued friendships … social status and a stronger self.
“I spoke with Bertha’s son Stephen and it was clear that she was fairly strong and resilient early on and continued this later in life. She became adaptable.”
Ms Williams has three sons: Peter, Gerald and Stephen; eight grandkids and 15 great grandchildren.
Oscar Parry
Briefs
Suicide prevention
The state government has outlined its new suicide prevention and response strategy. The 10-year Victorian Suicide Prevention and Response Strategy was a key recommendation of the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System. Acknowledging the wide-ranging factors of suicidal distress, like economic stress and family violence, the strategy is supported by an implementation plan that outlines a whole-of-government and community-wide approach. The strategy aims to address and reduce factors that contribute to suicide such as childhood trauma, economic stress, harmful drug and alcohol use and family violence, as well as focusing on increasing social inclusion and connection to culture.
Holiday fun
Museums Victoria is putting on several events for parents and kids to get curious this spring. Until October 6, Melbourne Museum, IMAX Melbourne, and Scienceworks will feature exhibitions, hands-on workshops and interactive activities. Scienceworks offers Air Playground, Glow Show, and FlushBack augmented reality experience.
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Convoy bashed it out for the kids
Life is a highway for participants in the Variety Vic Bash, who, after a 12 month fundraising campaign, embark on a 10-day trip through the heart of Australia to make life easier for underprivileged children. Eddie Russell reports.
You would think a seemingly endless convoy emerging from the desert haze was a scene straight out of Mad Max.
But instead of raising hell like the road warrior himself, those barrelling through the barren lands of rural Australia were raising money to help kids who need it most.
And for the 244 people travelling through the outback in 81 vintage cars last month, raise money they did – an enormous $1.6 million in total.
Their efforts were for children’s charity organisation Variety Victoria as part of an annual fundraising event, the Variety Vic Bash.
From August 16 to 24 this year, participants drove more than 3300 kilometres starting in Swan Hill and finishing in Airlie Beach.
‘‘ We often forget we are in costume and it not only brings us a laugh with locals but some really nice donations along the way ’’ - Elizabeth Porter
In the thick of the action were six Bacchus Marsh locals in two themed vehicles –Apollo 11, piloted by Shane Jenkins, Paul Menzies, Mick Belcher, and Glen Burgin, and Wonderland, featuring Elizabeth Porter and Liz Barby.
Both crews were taking part in their fifth ‘bash’ and contributed more than $10,000 each directly to Variety.
Shane Jenkins said that “the challenge” and “the cause” were what enticed him and his mates to get involved.
“We felt like it was a good opportunity to give back a bit … and it’s a motoring event, which suited us because we are into cars,” he said
“Doing it for the kids and going away with your friends to places you would potentially never go were the driving force behind it.”
An important feature of the fundraiser is the themed component; its silly and uplifting nature is to give kids who are visited along the route something to smile about.
Elizabeth Porter, who dresses as Alice as part of the Wonderland car, said the costumes resonated deeply with young people.
“It’s a great opportunity for kids to reconnect with their childhood fairy tale characters and that’s been a hit every year,” she said.
It is also well received by confused and delighted onlookers, said Ms Porter.
“We often forget we are in costume and it not only brings us a laugh with locals but some really nice donations along the way.
“It’s a bit of fun rolling into a service station and out pops Alice and the Queen of Hearts
to clean off the windscreen and pump fuel.”
Crews are not informed of their route until the morning of departure – Ms Porter likened this experience to following the white rabbit.
“You never know where you are going from one day to the next and there is always an adventure to be had,” she said.
In 2019, Mr Jenkins and his lifelong friends decided to dress as the Apollo 11 crew to coincide with the 50th anniversary of the moon landing, which they were awarded the best theme for.
Mr Jenkins said he thought it was a great idea because it was “appealing to kids” and also suitable for the landscape.
“The theme fits in well with the outback settings of central New South Wales and Queensland,” he said.
“We’ve had Variety take photos of us with an Australian flag out where there are no blades of grass and we joke that it is like a lunar landscape.”
While they are very much amateur astronauts – their space suits are made out of doonas and the rocket atop their 1988 Mercedes 300 SEL is made of PVC pipe – they are now veterans of the tour.
With the money raised by each car, Variety donate a variety of hardware and equipment fordisabledordisadvantagedyouth,aswellas
grants to assist those servicing kids in need.
On this year’s journey, more than 20 schools in remote towns were given $120,000, impacting more than 3000 kids.
Mr Jenkins said he got to see first-hand the disparity faced by some children in regional communities and how Variety aids them.
“One of the schools we went to, which was staffed by teachers who were predominantly volunteers, had a breakfast program because a lot of the kids don’t eat much at home.”
“Variety gave them a few thousand dollars and they do that a lot… there are a number of things that the money is used for and the idea of the bash is to stop in and donate those gifts.”
Ms Porter shares Mr Jenkins’ sentiment.
“It is life changing for recipients … I know that sounds very cliche but it is so true.
“Seeing children get out on the playground amongst their peers because they now have a wheelchair … it is so important for their development growing up.”
Despite the cost of living crunch and other “fantastic charities”, people have made the effort to pitch in for a range of reasons, said Ms Porter.
“The general public has contributed, whether it be buying a raffle ticket or giving a donation. It might be because they have been
affected or know somebody who has been a recipient of Variety’s work,” she said.
“We are also more than grateful for the continued sponsorship that goes towards the fundraising from some of our local businesses, who have supported us from day one.”
After donating to the Apollo 11 crew, Melton Toyota dealer principal Grant Harrison was inspired to get in on the action.
“For years I’d always wanted to do something like this but I am always too busy … but when we sponsored Shane I thought I should do it,” said Mr Harrison.
Mr Harrison has already purchased a 1985 Toyota Crown Royale for next year’s bash from Hamilton to Darwin, where the ‘Melton Toyota Emperors’ will join Apollo 11 and Wonderland at the starting line.
“We are paying our respects to where Toyota started back in 1930s Japan… we’ll dress ourselves up, raise a bit of quid, and have a bit of fun.
“Our goal is $10,000 but if we can raise $15,000 that’d be awesome because it’ll all go to the kids.”
One hundred per cent of proceeds from team donations go straight to Variety – there is no subsidising costs for vehicle purchases, costumes, petrol, or accommodation.
Paul Menzies, Shane Jenkins, Mick Belcher, Liz Barby, Elizabeth Porter and Glen Burgin. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 430980_01
Left: Liz Barby and Elizabeth Porter from the Wonderland car. Centre: The Apollo 11 team. (Pictures: Ljubica Vrankovic) 430980 Right: Grant Harrison with his 1985 Toyota Crown Royale. (Damjan Janevski) 428167_01
Sunbury and Bulla ward shakeup
By Oscar Parry
TheHumecouncilchamberissetforashake-up through a ward restructure and adoption of a single-member ward system for the next term, meaning Sunbury will lose representation through one less councillor.
JacksonsCreekWard,currentlyrepresenting Sunbury and Bulla, will be split into two wards – Emu Creek and Jacksons Hill.
All three current Jacksons Creek Ward councillors – Jack Medcraft, Jarrod Bell, and Trevor Dance – have nominated to run again.
CrsMedcraftandDancewillface-offagainst each other for the Emu Creek Ward vacancy, meaning one will not be re-elected next term.
Also registered to run for this ward is candidate Kate Hamley.
Natalie Harrison, Cr Bell, and John Karagiannidis will contest against each other for the Jacksons Hill Ward vacancy.
Ms Harrison and Trevor Dance have advertised that they are running as a team.
Current councillors Carly Moore Jim Overend, Karen Sherry, Sam Misho, Jodi Jackson, Naim Kurt, and Joseph Haweil have nominated for re-election across the municipality.
Current councillor Chris Hollow of Meadow Valley Ward did not nominate.
In total, 68 candidates in Hume have registered to run in the upcoming election.
Thenewwards,eachwithonevacancyasper the single-member ward system, are: Aitken Ward, Bababi Marning Ward, Burt-kur-min Ward, Emu Creek Ward, Jacksons Hill Ward, Merlynston Creek Ward, Mount Ridley Ward, Roxburgh Park Ward, Tullamarine Ward, Woodlands Ward and Yubup Ward.
As reported by Star Weekly , there were communityconcernsraisedlatelastyearabout one less councillor representing Sunbury.
According to an Electoral Representation Advisory Panel report, there was opposition towards the move to a single-councillor ward structure.
“The panel also observed that some submitters expressed strong concern about reducing the number of councillors representing Sunbury,” the report said.
“The uneven population distribution and growth in the council did not make it possible to create three single-councillor wards for the Sunbury area that would adhere to the… deviation requirement.”
Voting opens on Monday, October 7 and closes on Friday, October 25.
Voting in this election is by post only.
Hume local council election candidates:
Aitken Ward (one vacancy)
Carly Moore
Gurpreet Singh
Harsimran Kaur
Bababi Marning Ward (one vacancy)
Mohamad Abbouche
Ozcan Oztas
John Haddad
Sema N. Bolat
Graeme David Marr
Asif Naeem
Burhan Yigit
Burt-kur-min Ward (one vacancy)
Hussam Mestou
Sarwan Singh Sandhu
Jo Hardie
Gurpreet Singh Mann
Manoj Kumar
Avonjot Singh
Manisha Garg
Sabahat Farooq
Jim Overend
Emu Creek Ward (one vacancy)
Jack Medcraft
Trevor Dance
Kate Hamley
Jacksons Hill Ward (one vacancy)
Natalie Harrison
Jarrod Bell
John Karagiannidis
Merlynston Creek Ward (one vacancy)
Joe Aguilus
Mutullah Can Yolbulan
Shahnoor Shah
Yesim Kuluk
Ibrahim Gocol
Bassima Hawli
Sheena Haweil
Micaela Griffiths
Karen Sherry
Mount Ridley Ward (one vacancy)
Amarjeet Singh Bhullar
Marcus Harrington Venkata Ambati
Ricky Rataul Singh
Ananta Raj Poudel
Daniel English Raj Mann
Roxburgh Park Ward (one vacancy)
Yasir Mahmud
Phillip Di Biase
Sargon Thomas
Muhammad Nisar Ul Murtaza
Roshan Silva
David Williams
Aleyna Mimi
Drew Jessop
Muhtadi Albandar
Sam Misho Sahar Ageed
Tullamarine Ward (one vacancy)
Jodi Jackson
Linda Hanna
Naim Kurt
Woodlands Ward (one vacancy)
Steve Gagen
Lalith Udugampala
Khalid Hussain
Adem Atmaca
Assaad Eddie Issa
Joseph Haweil
Yubup Ward (one vacancy)
Vikein Mouradian
Muhammad Shahzad
Guri Singh
Sahib Singh
Ally Watson
Emily Greco
Ravneet Singh Sohi
Are your kids living in a world revolving around their passions? That’s a good thing.
It’s why the VCE’s new Vocational Major creates worlds where passions can be explored.
From agriculture to construction, health to clean energy. Whatever world our kids are into, there’s a VCE program to help develop the skills they’ll need to land a job in Australia’s most in-demand industries.
The new ward map for Hume, which will adopt a single-member ward system for the next term (Supplied)
Candidates for Macedon Ranges
By Oscar Parry
Unlike Hume, Macedon Ranges will maintain its ward structure for the next term, with three vacancies across each of the three wards.
Of the current councillors, Geoffrey Allan Neil, Dom Bonnano, Christine Walker, Rob Guthrie, Jennifer Anderson, and Janet Pearce registered as candidates for the upcoming council election.
This means that current mayor Annette Death and councillors Bill West and Mark Ridgeway will not run for the next term.
On November 13 last year, the Victorian Electoral Commission declared Cr Walker as the successful candidate to fill a South Ward vacancy following a countback.
According to the Macedon Ranges website, this followed the resignation of former councillor Anne Moore, where all votes within South Ward from the 2020 Macedon Ranges council election were redistributed to candidates who were unsuccessful in 2020, but were still eligible to be elected.
ThethreeMacedonRangeswardswillremain the same – East Ward, South Ward, and West Ward.
East Ward includes Baynton, Darraweit Guim, Kerrie, Lancefield, Newham, Riddells Creek and Romsey.
SouthWardincludesBullengarook,Gisborne, Macedon, Mount Macedon and New Gisborne West Ward includes Carlsruhe, Kyneton, Malmsbury, Tylden and Woodend.
Acrossthethreewards,thereare20candidates running for election.
Ofthese,SouthWardhasthemostcandidates with eight enrolments.
Voting for the local council elections open on Monday, October 7 and close on Friday, October 25. Voting in this election is by post only.
EDUCATION CHOICES
Senior SHC opportunities
Sacred Heart College Kyneton is a Catholic secondary school in the Mercy tradition, offeringacaringandsafelearningenvironment.
The college is absolutely committed to educating the whole person, to ensure that the youngpeopleinourcareflourishacademically, spiritually, socially, psychologically, and physically.
Organised into two sub-schools, the Heads of Junior (Years 7-9) and Senior (Years 10-12) School oversee the growth of the Junior and Senior experience, with a particular focus on studentwellbeing.Thesemembersofstaffwork in partnership with parents and alongside the classroom teachers, with the aim of nurturing each student to reach their potential.
The college is a medium-sized secondary school with a current enrolment of just over 850sooffersthebestofbothworlds-bigschool choices, small school atmosphere. A range of pathways are on offer for those in senior
school, including the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE), the VCE Vocational Major (VM) and Vocational Education & Training (VET) Units.
Students can access more than 40 VCE and VET subjects as well as a broad range of viable pathways into tertiary education, apprenticeships, employment and other opportunities.The college pridesitself on providing an in-depth supportive careers service that aims to guide students towards their chosen pathways, beyond the college gates.
We encourage all those in our local community interested in learning more about the educational offerings of Sacred Heart Collegetoattendoneoftheregularcollegetours or the Junior School Showcase scheduled for Thursday 17 October. We invite you to contact our College Registrar, Denise Lawrence, if you have any general enrolment enquiries.
Ranges
East Ward (three vacancies)
Henry Bleeck
Geoffrey
Daniel Young Cassy Borthwick
South Ward (three vacancies) Alison Joseph
(three
Bakes
The best environment for the senior years
A choice of pathways to suit learning styles & aspirations
To learn more about the Senior School environment and available pathways, join one of our regular College tours - bookings essential. For all enrolment enquiries contact the College Registrar, Denise Lawrence.
Macedon Ranges ward boundaries map, with the three Macedon Ranges wards remaining the same for the next term. (Supplied)
News has never been more vital
By Paul Thomas
On this World News Day, we are reminded of the invaluable role journalism plays in safeguarding our democracy, especially in regional and local towns across Australia.
While global headlines may dominate, it’s the local stories that are the heartbeat of our communities. Public interest journalism serves not only as a watchdog but also as a bridge between the people and their local governments, businesses, and neighbours.
Local newspapers are often the sole providers of information that directly impacts residents’ daily lives. From covering council meetings to reporting on issues like infrastructure development or the success of local businesses, these newspapers perform a critical function. When journalists shine a light on important issues, they empower their communities to engage, voice concerns, and demand accountability.
At Star Weekly, we believe that public interest journalism is essential for the health of our democracy. In an age of misinformation and dwindling trust, our mission is to provide
fact-based reporting that our readers can rely on. While we operate in a rapidly changing media landscape, the core values of journalism remain unchanged: truth, transparency, and a commitment to the communities we serve.
The rise of social media has fundamentally transformed how we consume information, with both positive and negative consequences. While platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok have connected us in new and powerfulways,theyhavealsobecomebreeding grounds for misinformation, deep fakes, and viral falsehoods. With content increasingly manipulated, from deep fake videos to entirely fabricated news stories, it has become harder for people to distinguish fact from fiction. This erosion of trust threatens the very foundation of informed communities and societies.
In contrast, local newspapers provide a crucial counterbalance to this tide of disinformation. Our journalists work tirelessly to deliver stories grounded in facts, verified by trusted sources, and shaped with balance. When you read your local newspaper, either in print or online, you can trust that the information is accurate, relevant, and serves
the best interests of your community. Local newspapers are more than just sources of news; they are the defenders of truth in a noisy and often confusing media landscape.
As technology and media consumption habits continue to evolve, local journalism must adapt. However, the mission remains the same: telling stories that matter, holding the powerful to account, and keeping the public informed. Newspapers, particularly in regionalandlocaltowns,haveadutytoremain trusted sources of news for the communities they serve.
In a time when misinformation and falsehoods spread rapidly, let’s make sure the truth rings louder. By supporting local journalism, we strengthen not just our media but the very fabric of our regional and local towns. Together, we can ensure that truth and integrity remain at the heart of our communities.
* Paul Thomas is the owner and director of Star Weekly. He has worked in newspapers all his life and is a former president and life member of Country Press Australia.
Art and flowers on display in colourful Kyneton
Celebrating the beauty of spring, the streets of Kyneton were full of colour for the Kyneton Daffodil and Arts festival this month.
Running from September 5–15, the festival program included open garden tours, a ‘golden mile’ of daffodils, markets, ferret racing, the ‘Dog Dash’ time trial competition, guest speaker sessions, art competitions and exhibitions, and the Grand Parade and fair.
This year’s Grand Parade theme was ‘All the Colours of Spring’, where daffodil-adorned floats, decorations, and people passed through MollisonStreetontheclosingdayofthefestival, followed by a fair with food and entertainment.
Kyneton Daffodil and Arts Festival committee vice-president Sharryn Smith said that a highlight of the festival for her was the sense of community throughout the festival.
“I just love how … the community gets together, and just seeing the joy on everyone’s face … it’s a little bit of a quirky little festival,” Ms Smith said. “Particularly the newcomers to the town and how they’ve embraced the whole festival and the spirit of the festival.”
She said that the open garden tours were a huge success, receiving plenty of interest from visitors from all across Melbourne and “opening up everyone’s eyes to what a beautiful area we live in in the Macedon Ranges.”
Ms Smith said that the festival committee is looking for a new secretary and president for next year’s festival.
Star Weekly owner and director Paul Thomas.
Above: A group of the 2024 Kyneton Daffodil & Arts Festival ‘royals’. Right: Festival goers in daffodil-themed attire, even pets got involved! (Pictures: Supplied)
MY PLACE
Riddells Creek Men’s Shed secretary Don Clark is a proud Riddells Creek resident and enjoys being part of a men’s shed community. Oscar Parry spoke with Don about his connection to the town and the men’s shed.
What is your connection to Riddells Creek?
We purchased land and built our house here in the mid 1970s. We raised two wonderful children, adults now, and we couldn’t be more proud of them. Both attended the Riddells Creek Primary School and went on to Gisborne Secondary College. Both are dedicated workers with strong work ethics. My wife Chris and I are very proud parents. Raising our children in Riddells Creek ensured they had the right environment.
I worked for Ansett Airlines for over 30 years, initially in the crewing department, progressing from there to the day of operations section. This was a dream job and I enjoyed the sometimes stressful disruptions due to aircraft unserviceability, bad weather, and other day of operation issues.
How have you been involved in the community?
After establishing our three quarter acre property I joined the Riddells Creek CFA volunteer fire brigade just prior to the Ash Wednesdayfire.In1990, Iwaselectedsecretary –apositionIheldfor16yearsuntil2006.During this same period, I took on the position of fire equipment maintenance officer. Among other service awards I received the National Medal, CFA Life Membership Award and RCFB Life Membership Award. I remain – although less active – a Riddells Creek Fire Brigade member. In the mid 1980s, I was ‘persuaded’ to stand for a board position on the Riddells Creek Water Board. In the late 1990s, I was appointed to the position of chairman by the Victorian Government. Recently, this authority has been amalgamated with City West Water to form Greater Western Water.
Riddells Creek Men’s Shed secretary Don Clark at his Riddells Creek home. (Damjan Janevski). 431964_05
Early in 2003, along with my wife and other interested community members, we joined [with] MRSC to discuss the use of a $150,000 government grant to best serve the Riddells Creek community’s needs. It was subsequently agreed by this group, along with strong endorsement by Macedon Ranges council, that Riddells Creek should establish a neighbourhood house using the above grant. MRSC made a commitment of an additional $50,000 to the project.
After many meetings, the group settled on
Montessori school, into a neighbourhood house.
What do you like about where you live? Whilewehavesomeinfillandunitdevelopment, Riddells Creek still has a village atmosphere to it.
What, if anything, would you change about
where you live?
The upcoming [proposed] Amess Road development – we need to ensure it meets the community’s requirements.
What do you enjoy most about being a part of the Riddells Creek Men’s Shed? Ourshedhasalwaysbeenaboutthecamaraderie and support all members give to each other. Even though we don’t have an actual shed at the moment, this support is still there.
redeveloping the old … principals’ residence, next to the
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
WANT YOUR EVENT LISTED? Community Calendar is made available free of charge to not-for-profit organisations to keep the public informed of special events and activities. Send item details to Star Weekly Community Calendar, Corner Thomsons Road and Keilor Park Drive, Keilor Park, 3042, or email to westeditorial@starweekly.com.au by 9am Wednesday the week prior to publication
Sunbury Neighbourhood House AGM
Sunbury Neighbourhood House is hosting its annual general meeting. The AGM will be held at SNH 531 Elizabeth Drive, Sunbury at 7pm on Tuesday, October 22.
win@sunburyhouse.com.au to register interest. www.sunburyhouse.com.au
Durrol Open Garden
Enjoy a day exploring Durrol, aquintessential example of a hill station property. Visitors can wander the rock-walled paths, mossy steps and lawns whilst taking in the magnificent array of mature trees including maples, oaks, lindens, beech, weeping elms and ash to name but a few. This garden opening is hosted by The Mt Macedon & District Horticultural Society. Funds raised from visits will go towards a life-sized bronze statue of prolific and award-winning artist Ellis Rowan. The garden will be open on Saturday, November 16, and Sunday, November 17 from 10am–4pm. Entry is $10.
Stephen Ryan, tugurium@bigpond.com. au or 0433 067 813
Scout Jamboree fundraising 1st Sunbury Scouts are fundraising to send Scouts to a Jamboree in Maryborough, Queensland in January 2025. The next fundraising event is a Miniature Train ride day 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-tick etings/1stSunburyJamboreeTrain Donations are also welcome.
scoutsjf@gmail.com
Family History and Heritage Society
If you’ve got a hankering to learn more about Sunbury and your own family history, come along to meetings at 1.30pm on the third Thursday of each month, which from May will be at room five at the Global Learning Centre in Sunbury.
https://bit.ly/3jvM6oJ
Insync Entertainment
Insync Entertainment is an all-female community choir, providing the opportunity to meet others who enjoy singing. The group is seeking new members to join the friendly choir. No auditions required. They rehearse at the Sunbury Baptist Church Hall every Monday from 7.15–9.30pm.
insyncentertainment@gmail.com
North Western District Pipe Band
The newly formed North Western District Pipe Band meets every Wednesday at 7.30pm at the Diggers Rest Bowls Club. It is seeking experienced pipers and drummers to join the band and are also offering tuition for learners of all ages.
Hank, 0412 160 576 or nwd.pipeband@ gmail.com. Visit https://www.facebook. com/NorthWesternDistrictPipeBand?mibex tid=ZbWKwL
WeightWatchers
Join like-minded community members wanting to achieve weight health.
WeightWatchers meets every Wednesday at 5.30pm at Sunbury Neighbourhood House, 531 Elizabeth Drive Sunbury.
1800 958 288
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
This week’s photographer’s choice is of sister Eloise and Isobel, 14, they are competing in the Victorian State School Spectacular. (Damjan Janevski) 431738_01
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
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
Sunbury Macedon Ranges Lodge
Meets monthly on the second Wednesday of the month at 7pm, 73 Main Street, Romsey. New members welcome.
Wayne, 0404 034 737, or Ian, 0438 240 402
Rotary club
The Sunbury Rotary Club meets every Tuesday at the Ball Court Hotel, 60 Macedon Street, Sunbury, from 7pm.
sunburyrotary@gmail.com
Ladies probus
The Woodlands Ladies Probus Club of Sunbury meets on the fourth Monday of each month at the Sunbury Bowling Club at 9.45am.
Leonie, 0401 764 182
Sunbury Ladies Probus Club
The Sunbury Ladies Probus Club meets at 9.30am on the fourth Wednesday of each
month at the Sunbury Football Social Club rooms.
Pat, 0433 789 754, or Sylvia, 0417 170 142
Sunbury Combined Probus Club
The Sunbury Combined Probus Club meets every fourth Thursday of the month at the Sunbury Bowling Club at 10am.
Jo, 0410 834 272
Probus Club Of Sunbury
Join the Probus Club of Sunbury on the first Wednesday of the month at the Sunbury Bowling club at 9.30am. It’s a friendly men’s group open to visitors and new members, with a number of great events held each month.
Greg, 0417 593 035
Camera club
The Macedon Ranges Photographic Society is your local camera club for friendship, photographic outings, workshops, guest presenters, competitions and more. Meetings on the first Tuesday of the month, followed by the next Monday. Doors open at 7pm, meeting starts at 7.30pm at Dromkeen, 1012 Kilmore Road, Riddells Creek.
https://bit.ly/41j5BEw
Village connect
Enjoy free coffee and cake while connecting with fellow Macedon Ranges residents 55 years old and older. Happening on Tuesdays and Thursday at cafes across the municipality.
https://bit.ly/3AMUrxm, or 5422 0262
Arts and games night
Get creative at the Sunbury Youth Centre each Wednesday, from 3.30–5.30pm. The free program is for people aged 12 to 18 years old, at 51-53 Evans Street, Sunbury.
Carer connect chat
Connect with other carers in your local area, share a light lunch, have a chat at noon on
the first Wednesday of the month. Head to Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health, 1 Caroline Chisholm Drive, Kyneton. 0491 174 550, or rebecca.lees@scchc.org.au
Breast cancer support group
On the first and third Tuesday of the month breast cancer survivors are invited to head along to the Gisborne Golf Club at 10.30am to take part in a breast cancer support group.
Lesley, 0484 691 226
HarmoniX Vocal Company
All-male singing group happening on Thursday, 7-9.30pm, in Sunbury, with a mixed choir, DynamiX Vocal Company, rehearsing Tuesday, 7-9.30pm. Rehearse at Dulap Wilim Hub, Leichardt Street, Sunbury. No auditions required.
harmonixvcinc@gmail.com
Jacksons Creek Combined Probus
The club meets on the second Monday of each month at the Sunbury Bowling Club at 10am. This friendly group of men and women enjoy outings and meetings each month and twice yearly trips away staying in cabins and caravans. Visitors and new members are warmly welcomed
Doug, 5428 3317, or Teresa, 0417 373 006
Craft and conversation
Head down to the Sunbury Library on Mondays at noon for the craft and conversation group. The program is free and open to people aged 15 years and older.
https://bit.ly/39BIu2O
Chill Out Sunbury
Chill Out Sunbury is a free event for 12 and 18 years old to participate in activities such as trivia, games, and more. Happening every Wednesday, 3.30–5.30pm, at the Sunbury Youth Centre, 51-53 Evans Street. https://bit.ly/3lmVgVhv
Fascinating fragile fragments
The Gallery in Mount Macedon is launching a new exhibition titled Fragile Fragments, featuring a range of textile artworks inspired by decay and the cycle of life in nature.
The pieces were created by Kyneton artist Elizabeth Harvey, who works across a broad range of textiles – including cloth, paper, thread, metal cloth, wire, and mesh.
Shesaidthatherworksareinspiredbynature and natural processes that she has observed, including in her own Kyneton garden.
“It’s always intrigued me … the changes of particularly leaves and plants as autumn comes andyouseethechangesinthecoloursandthey drop to the ground and start to decay … the potential to see pods dropping to the ground [and] of new life coming from that cycle of
nature,” Harvey said.
“I know there are a lot of people who can replicate nature in their work and it looks good … I’m not trying to do that. I’m using the leaf shape, or the pod shape, to influence my creativity.”
Harvey said that she is also influenced by the Japanese aesthetic of wabi-sabi, which celebrates transience, imperfection, and impermanence.
She began working with textiles as a child, wherehermotherintroducedhertocrocheting, and she soon became fascinated with spinning wheels and hand spinning.
Metal cloth, mesh, and wire are textile materials that she recently introduced to her repertoire.
“I embroider it, I embellish it, you could sew on it – I can just use the skills I feel I’ve already developed over a number of years in this new medium.”
Fragile Fragments will be exhibited at The Gallery Mount Macedon from October 8 to November 3.
The opening of the exhibition will be held on Saturday, October 12.
Details: https://thegallerymtmacedon.com. au/
Oscar Parry
Fringe to again go west in October
Fringe Westside 2024 returns next month, part of the Melbourne Fringe Festival which runs from October to 1 to 20.
This year’s line-up features a blend of creativity and community spirit, with live events taking place at both indoor and outdoor venues across Maribyrnong, including Maddern Square in Footscray.
The square just off the Nicholson Street mall will host one of the highlights of the festival, Free Fairy Floss on Sunday, October 13.
Designed to evoke wonder and celebrate the beauty in everyday moments, the family-friendly event will feature aerial performances, live music, and, of course, free fairy floss.
Another prominent venue will be Bluestone Church Arts Space which will host three compelling contemporary performances, showcasing the diverse talent in Melbourne’s west.
The Electric Cathedral is a multi-media experience where six a cappella singers will lead audiences through profound human questions, all set against the immersive backdrop of a virtual cathedral. The church willbetransformedintoaverydifferentsetting for Dirty Old Town, a play written by emerging local playwright James Madsen-Smith.
Set in the suburbs of Melbourne’s west, the play explores the intersecting themes of youth andclassinanintimatetheatricalenvironment.
The work of another western suburbs playwright, Wyndham’s Alaine Beek, will then be showcased in the critically acclaimed Jack and Millie.
A reimagining of Beek’s own breast cancer journey, Jack and Millie is a gritty and witty exploration of the impact of a life-threatening diagnosis, inviting audiences into a world of resilience and humour.
Other venues to host shows during the festival include Footscray Community Arts, Kindred Studios, Pride of Our Footscray, Waterside Forge, and Mamma Chens.
For more information and to book tickets, visit: https://www.maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/ festivalcity/Festivals/Fringe-Westside-2024
Temple set to host flames and fireworks
As October approaches, so too does one of the “biggest days in the Hindu calendar.”
From 11am – to 6pm on October 13, the Sri Durga temple will host a special festival to commemorate Dussehra.
Visitors can attend the temple for free, locatedat705-715NealeRoadinDeanside,and join the millions celebrating across the globe.
Highlights of the festival include the ‘Devil’s Burning’, which is immediately followed by a large fireworks display to conclude the evening at sunset.
Sri Durga temple vice president Gary Verma said that the fiery display is deeply tied to the tradition of the event.
“Dussehra is the day where Lord Rama killed the devil, so we celebrate by burning a large 12-foot effigy of the demon,” he said.
“It is a precursor to Diwali, when Lord Rama came back to his kingdom after defeating the devil.”
However, there would be plenty on offer for patrons throughout the day, said Mr Verma.
“Therewillbemanyfoodstallswithavariety of delicious foods from different parts of India, there will be rides for kids, and if you are a fan of music and cultural dances, come and sit near the stage to watch the performances.”
Mr Verma emphasised that the festival was not exclusive to those of Hindu faith and that all walks of life were encouraged to attend.
“This is a cultural festival… we welcome people to celebrate the rich, colourful, and vibrant Indian community,” he said.
Eddie Russell
Noiseworks ready to rock
Legendary Australian band Noiseworks are set to rock Werribee Park for One Electric Day on Sunday, November 17
Frontman Jon Stevens, who has headlined the event as a solo act multiple times, expressed excitement at the prospect of returning.
“It’s a great line up and I am very honoured to be headlining that day,” he said.
Calling it “a one of a kind venue”, Stevens described the unique magic of Werribee Park.
“When you’re standing on that stage, you’re looking all the way down to the mansion- it is just a magnificent sort of viewpoint.”
The energy transfer between artist and audience has always been special to Stevens.
“It’s love, I suppose. It’s very, very humbling- and sometimes it can actually be emotional and sometimes it can be a little overwhelming when you’re up there.
“It’s such a beautiful exchange.”
When it comes to performing hits, Stevens said he values maintaining the integrity of the songs fans have come to love over the decades.
“I try to play everything true to the original as much as humanly possible,“ he said.
By no means relegated to the past, Noiseworks released ‘Evolution’ in November 2022, a record that Stevens said was “Probably my favourite Noiseworks album“.
While Noiseworks will be without founding member and guitarist Stuart Fraser, who passed away shortly after recording their final album in December 2019, the stage is the best way to pay their respects to their former comrade.
Tickets: https://www.ticketmaster. com.au/one-electric-day-tickets/ artist/1896257
Jaidyn Kennedy
Niow and Ania Reynolds from Free Fairy Floss which takes place in Maddern Square, Footscray on October 13.
(Phillip Gao)
Jon Stevens. (Supplied)
Gary Verma in the temple. (Damjan Janevski)
An art piece from the exhibition titled ‘Small Study 3’. (Supplied)
Public Notice of Praecipe, Tacit Acceptance and Reconveyance Lisa Lee-Ann Kelly of Sunbury, Victoria State, is not a voluntary transactor in commerce, and is the irrefutable Holder in Due Course of my property and all associated Copyright Protected Trade Names Maya Grace Mustata [RPP 44 63900 05100 30179 62604] and Enya Mary Mustata [RPP 44 63900 05100 30179 63601] since unrebutted lawful reconveyance to the Land and Soil jurisdiction of Terra Australis, commonly known as The Commonwealth of Australia, Public Record Number RPP 44 63900 05100 30672 04600, Proclamation Date 15th July 2024; severing Userfruct Subjugation ties with the Australian Corporation in entirety. The occupying corporate government of Australia and its affiliates are instructed to immediately cease and desist any further infringement upon these copyright protected Financial Instruments and cease and desist misaddressing Lisa Lee-Ann Kelly in fraudulent debased Dog-Latin; Glossa
SPORTS QUIZ
1. At the recent US Open, Queensland’s Benjamin Wenzel became the first Australian tennis player to do what?
2. Aryna Sabalenka and Jannik Sinner won the US Open singles and which other Grand Slam in 2024?
3. Which Hawks player was spotted at a pub the night before their elimination final victory?
4. The International Gymnastics Federation, commonly abbreviated to FIG, is headquartered in which country?
5. Name the 1970 biopic in which James Earl Jones played a character inspired by boxer Jack Johnson.
6. Which Asian celebration of traditional sports and culture, dubbed the ‘Great Gathering on the Steppe’, took place recently in Astana?
7. Held each March, the Brier is the Canadian men’s championship of what sport?
8. In which year were women first allowed to compete in the World Karate Championships?
Which Canterbury winger recently returned a positive drug test, according to police? What was the nickname of sports broadcaster Graham McNeice, who died this month?
By what margin did Geelong defeat Port Adelaide in the second qualifying final of the AFL finals series?
Port Adelaide coach Ken Hinkley was fined how much for his post-siren exchange with Hawthorn players?
13. In what position on the medal tally did Australia finish in the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games?
14. Slovenia’s Primoz Roglic recently won which major European cycling event for the fourth time?
15. Which country defeated the Australian men’s soccer team 1-0 in a World Cup qualifier on September 5?
16. In which year was the Norm Smith medal first awarded for best-on-ground in an AFL grand final?
17. Multiple championshipwinning F1 designer Adrian Newey has left Red Bull Racing to join which midfield team in 2025?
18. The Refugee Paralympic Team won how many medals at the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games?
19. The English men’s cricket team were defeated by which country in the third match of the recent three-Test series?
20. Which professional men’s golf tour references the Roman numeral 54 in its official name?
21. Oscar Piastri’s victory at the 2024 Azerbaijan Formula 1 Grand Prix took his career tally to how many wins?
22. The Brisbane Lions came from how many points behind to win their semifinal against the GWS Giants?
23. Australian NBA player Josh Green was traded to which team in July?
24. The Matildas will play which nation in two friendly matches in December?
25. Australia will play India in how many Test cricket matches over the course of the 2024-25 summer?
26. Which AFLW teams are the only two undefeated after the first three rounds?
27. The 2026 Winter Olympics will be held in which country?
28. And what country will host the 2030 edition of the games?
29. AFLW star player Monique Conti also plays what sport at a professional level?
30. Which Australian batsman scored a century in the second match of the T20 international series against Scotland?
Oscar Piastri
James Earl Jones
ACROSS
1 Well pleased (9)
6 German automobile manufacturer (4)
10 Prefix denoting reversal (3)
11 Formal statement about another’s character (11)
12 Former US first lady, – Obama (8)
13 Counterreply (6)
14 Bird’s home (4)
15 Instructor (7)
20 Traditions (7)
21 Edible rootstock (4)
25 Recess (6)
26 In a smooth and effortless manner (8)
28 Donated (11)
29 Ocean (3)
30 Good fortune (4)
31 Preceding day (9)
DOWN
1 Lees (8)
2 Case that sets a precedent (4,4)
3 Furniture item (6)
4 Unable to pay (9)
5 Speaker’s platform (4)
7 Tandem (6)
8 Water-surrounded land mass (6)
9 Supervisors (7)
16 Finishes (9)
17 Corrupt (7)
18 Being admitted to a church (8)
19 Having multiple wives or husbands (8)
22 Package (6)
23 Picturesque (6)
24 Heckle (6)
27 Web auction site (4)
7 Dawn Tinsley is a character from which UK television series?
8
Brooke Shields (pictured),
Zellweger and Ashlee Simpson have all played which Chicago character?
4 Do sufferers of myopia have trouble seeing close or distant objects?
5 What was Beijing known as prior to 1949?
Which planet is the home of Olympus Mons, the tallest mountain in our solar system?
Sorento PE joins Kia pantheon
By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring
Some sports utility vehicles are just big, others are bold.
The 2024 Sorento PE, for Product Enhancement, taking a lead from the EV9 World Car of the Year, veers to the latter, cementing its place in Kia’s modern pantheon.
The MY24 stays true to the outgoing model relying on the existing range of four powertrains. The 3.5-litre petrol front-wheel drive and 2.2-litre diesel all-wheel drive variants are available across four trim levels –S, Sport, Sport+ and GT-Line – with the last, home for the Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid.
“The award-winning fourth generation seven-seat Sorento took the large SUV segment by storm,” says Kia Australia CEO Damien Meredith. “When it was launched in 2020 with the enhanced model, what was really good is even better now.”
The two hybrids sell for $70,330 for the front-wheel drive and $73,330 the all-wheel drive – both before on-road costs. Warranty on both is the Kia seven-year, unlimited kilometre,whiletheKiaConnectisaseven-year complimentary car service providing owner benefitsinsafety,security,convenienceandlive services for real-time data such as weather and traffic info.
Smartstream 1.6L turbo petrol engine works in tandem with an electric motor and the 6-speed transmission. This allows the full output of both petrol engine and/or electric motor to be transferred in parallel through the transmission, with minimal energy loss.
Styling
The new Sorento features multiple refreshed design elements creating a unique appearance with cues from the EV9 electric car, it stands boldly with a new headlight graphic and a cleaner radiator grille and front bumper. Side on, the Sorento stands firm and true
to the rugged character of a big four-wheel drive wagon. The simplified rear offers a more modern look, with the rear lamps taking their lead from the new signature front lighting design.
Interior
The almost three-metre wheelbase dishes up a cabin with plenty of room for up to seven occupants in three rows of seats adorned with quilted Nappa leather. Up front seating has heating and ventilation, plus 14-way power adjustment for the driver’s side with two-position memory. The steering wheel also is heated. A shift-by-wire knob makes for a clean look for the centre console.
The second-row seats offer fore-aft sliding, which means getting into the third row is not difficult. A single touch of a button and the middle-row seat slides and folds for access to the rear or adjusts limited third-row leg room for comfort.
Reflecting the ever increasing take up of digital technology, the internal mirror launchedintheKiaEV9displaysasharpimage of what is behind the Sorento. Not instantly accommodating,itdoestakeasecondortwoto refocus the eyes from the road ahead to what’s behind the vehicle.
Infotainment
Twin 12.3-inch displays dominate the dashboard, with a touchscreen on the left and a digital equipment cluster offering clear, instant readouts for a relaxed driving experience. Following in the way of the Kia EV9, over-the-air system updates are available across the Sorento range, including GT-Line HEVs.
Bose has come up with premium sound system combining a dozen optimally tuned, high performance speakers and sub-woofer based on the company’s unique sound technology. As Bose claims, it’s a “rich” and immersive audio experience’.
Engines/transmissions
The Sorento GT-Line Hybrid makes use of a 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine in tandem with a small electric motor putting out total power of 169kW at 5500rpm and 350Nm of torque at 1500rpm.
Unlike many petrol/electric hybrid vehicles, a 1kWh Li-po battery located under the floor, the Sorento HEV requires no external manual charging.Thesystemfuelsitselfbyusingenergy lost decelerating, braking, or by picking up excess engine power not used during cruising. The battery feeds the electric motor that can either run on its own for short stints or shares the load with the petrol engine.
Safety
The Sorento GT-Line Hybrid has earned a five-star ANCAP safety rating in the 2022
testing regimen. PE upgrades introduce Highway Driving Assist, the next generation of Advanced Driver Assistance System, which operates only on a freeway or motorway.
HDA advances adaptive cruise control with stop/go capability, combining with Lane Following Assist to keep the car centred in the lane even when driving through a curve. Parkingproblemsarealsoeasedbytheaddition of Parking Distance Warning (front, side and rear) that will warn the driver when a bump is likely during parking.
Driving
With a small, turbocharged engine and electric motor built into the six-speed automatic transmission, while the Sorento HEV sets off under electric power alone, the petrol engine can’t wait to join in, adding a buzzy note and slight vibration to proceedings.
Fuel consumption of 5.8 litres per 100 kilometres on the combined urban/highway cycle is claimed by the maker. The test vehicle returned eight in the city and 5.5 on the motorway.
As expected, Kia has tuned ride and handling for Australian conditions and results in a far from jumpy ride on the road. Control and comfort go hand in hand.
The Sorento has three drive modes – Eco, Sport or Smart – which, according to how the car is driven, monitors the manner and adjusts steering, throttle response, and transmission shifts to suit.
Terrain mode can take the stress out of snow, mud and sand conditions to a certain extent but there’s no substitute for experience here.
Summary
The Sorento, we are told, was subjected to an extensive ride and handling program over thousands of kilometres across urban, country andoutbackroadsinAustralia.Withouttaking too many liberties the GT-Line Hybrid shows these efforts to great advantage.
The Kia Sorento PE is cementing its place in Kia’s modern pantheon. (Pictures: Supplied)
Season 2024 comes to an end
Local football and netball finals came to an end on the weekend with a number of finals across Melbourne’s north-west and surrounding competitions. Star Weekly’s Ljubica
was out shooting some of the action.
Vrankovic
Hoppers Crossing’s Riley Fisher. 432961_01
Nick O’Kearney. 432959_53
Western Football League division 1 grand final crowd. 432961_06
Hoppers Crossing’s Jed Anderson. 432961_39
Werribee Districts’ Brock Spiteri. 432961_03
Keilor and the crowd. 432959_10
Mick McGuane and Keilor. 432959_09
Jack Bonnett and Harry Maguire. 432961_08
Cody Brand. 432959_43
Mason Thomas. 432959_24
Di Filippo claims top honour two years in a row
Sunbury Lions midcourter Simona Di Filippo is a two-time Sally McLean Medal winner at the age of 21.
Di Filippo claimed her second Ballarat Netball League top honour on Monday night after polling three votes in the final round. She finished one vote clear of North Ballarat goaler Maddy Selmon.
Di Filippo said it hasn’t kicked in that she has won the McLean Medal for a second time. “It comes down to hard work at the end of the day,” she said. “It was a very special moment, especially last night [Monday] getting my name called out.”
Di Filippo said she wasn’t sure if she had done enough in the final round to get over the line.
The Lions had a big win against Bacchus Marsh,buttheyhadtriedafewthingsheading into finals.
“There were no promises as I didn’t play a full game in my position,” she said. “I wasn’t feeling too confident, but obviously I did enough in my position to impress the umpires.”
For Di Filippo winning the medal not just once, but twice was something she could have never imagined.
She said her netball career had also been a bit of a struggle to achieve things.
Her role for the Lions has been a key one to help the Lions make it to the grand final.
“From a team perspective we each did our jobs and we became such a coherent unit,” she said before the grand final.
“I think we all just really gelled together, personally I think my skills have come a long way this season.
“This group got put together last year, we’ve been together for two years now. To make a grand final after two years playing together is such an awesome achievement.
“I probably played better this season than last season.”
Di Filippo had to step up when Tayla Honey went down injured and missed a lot of the back end of the year.
She said it was a good opportunity for her to step up and improve her leadership skills.
A season at the Western Warriors in the
Victorian Netball League also helped with her game.
“Playing in championship sides against very good quality players that are playing Vixens in training partner roles and being able to adapt to play on quality players has really challenged me this season.
“I’ve learned so much from that and able to bring it back to Sunbury, putting all the skills I’ve developed in Sunbury.
“I knew how to adapt a little bit easier and my efficiency with passing got a little bit better as well.”
Di Filippo said she hadn’t looked to far past the grand final but was looking to play VNL with the Western Warriors again next season.
Meanwhile, Di Filippo was named in the netball team of the year alongside teammates Rebecca Hicks, Tayla Honey and Sarah Croft.
Coach Kim Bailey was named the netball coach of the year.
In the football team of the year was Sunbury’s Tyson Lever, Josh Guthrie and Jake Sutton.
Tara Murray
Lions stage comeback to win flag
By Tara Murray
TherewerecelebrationsaplentyastheSunbury
Lions came from behind to claim the Ballarat Netball League premiership on Saturday.
The Lions had to win the hard way against Darley, after looking down and out in the third quarter.
Sunbury used its fighting spirit to hit the front in the last quarter and stay there on the way to a 44-41 win.
Lions coach Kim Bailey said she thought her side was gone and that the Devils were headed towards the premiership. The Devils had been hoping it would be third time lucky having lost the past two years.
Each match between the sides this season has been close.
“In the third quarter, I said to Red [Lindsay Jones] that we’re in a bit of trouble,” Bailey said. “They were able to dig deep in the last quarter.
“I just said to them that they want to enjoy theseasonendingonahigh.Theyhadtodothe basics well and they stuck to the game plan.
“Theywerereadytorunthroughbrickwalls.”
The Lions had to move their midcourt match ups around heading into the game.
Bailey said they were concerned about Tayla Honey and her ability to play a whole game. It meant Honey had to start in wing defence, while Sally McLean Medallist Simona Di Filippo moved into centre and Sarah Croft into wing attack.
“It had become a real issue as we didn’t think she could play a full game in centre,” she said Honey, who had returned late in the season from a serious leg injury.
“It was a bit of a precaution with her and we’ve protected her the last few weeks. We spoke about it and what we needed to do.
“She has to be able to walk as well. We knew we could get a half from her in centre and she was able to do that.”
As well as Honey struggling with her leg, Rebecca Hicks had been in bed sick all week while Tara O’Grady dislocated her finger on Tuesday night.
The Lions led by one at quarter time before trailing by three goals at both half and three quarter time.
Within the first five minutes of the final quarter the Lions had hit the lead.
Baileysaidthegroupwasabletostayfocused and block out the crowd noise.
“They played with patience,” she said. “They stuck to the game plan.
“The last couple of weeks we had been in similar situations. I knew once we were in front that we could continue that mentality and get the job done.”
Hicks was awarded the best on court medal. She finished with 33 goals, including a perfect 15 from 15 in the final quarter.
Bailey said Hicks, who was playing against her old side, had performed when they needed her. She was also strong in the semi final between the two teams.
Bailey said she had never seen celebrations like that before after a netball grand final.
It was a big day for the Lions with their B-grade side also getting up, winning 41-36 against Redan.
Emily Conn was named best on court.
Bailey said they are such a great team.
“They are such great club girls,” she said.
“Most could look to step into an A-grade team.
“They deserved it. Casey [Le Gros] came off with a knee injury and it challenged us a little bit but everyone stepped up.”
Baileysaidoneoftheexcitingthingswasthat most of the A-grade side were under the age of 25 and all the B-grade side were.
The D-grade and E-grade sides both lost their grand finals as for Lions netball teams
were in action.
The A-grade win caps off a big two years for the program after not having an A-grade side in 2022.
Bailey said a lot of hard work had gone into getting the club back to where it was.
“It’snotjustme,butthegirlsandthebuy-in,” shesaid.“Gettingtherightcoachesaroundand I couldn’t do it without Red’s help.
“It’s amazing, it’s not just one person.”
In the reserves football, the Lions lost to East Point, 7.7 (49)-5.11 (41).
Simona Di Filippo. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 418824_02
Sunbury Lions A-grade premiers (Supplied)
There was a big crowd watching Sunbury. (Supplied)
Sunbury Lions’ B-grade premiers. (Supplied)
Rising trio part of inaugural First Nations team
Three locals were part of the first Victorian First Nations team that is competing at Netball Australia’s inaugural First Nations Tournament.
The tournament was held at the State Netball Centre in Parkville from September 13-15, featuring Australia’s best under-23 First Nations athletes.
Speaking before the event, Sunbury Lions Jemiah Niki said it’s super cool to be part of a team like this. Niki was also a development player with the Western Warriors.
Niki is from Jawoyn, Murry Island and Saibai Island heritage.
“You always dream of this stuff as a young netballer and to be living out a dream is just awesome,” she said. “To hear about the competition and space for other women and girls like me made my heart so warm.
“It provides a platform for us to celebrate our culture, showcase our talent and represent our community with pride,” she said. “I’m really excited it’s going to be hosted in Melbourne where our families and communities can come along and be a part of this special event.”
Butterworth-Gonebale said there was a mix of excitement and gratitude for those who’ve been championing this opportunity for a long time.
Nations team.
The Wamba-Wamba woman said she was proud to be representing her state.
“I was very excited when I first heard about the indigenous team and I’m rapt to have the opportunity to be part of it,” she said. “I’m looking forward to meeting other indigenous girls and competing against the other states.”
All three said they were hoping the tournament would be a massive success.
Niki said she was hoping to see some ‘killer netball’ and meet some amazing girls, while opening up some more doors.
Melton Centrals and City West Falcons Elisa Butterworth-Gonebale said being part of the team is an incredible honour.
Butterworth-GonebaleisaWagiman-Ngan Giwumirri woman.
”We don’t have many spaces for us in sport so hopefully this opens up doors for other sports to follow along. And then to hear I was selected in the team made it 100 times better.”
“When I found out I was going to be a team member I felt a deep sense of pride,”she said. “The chance to represent the Victorian Aboriginal community in such a way filled me with excitement but also a strong sense of responsibility to work hard and do my community proud.”
Éyre, who also plays for Melton Centrals and the Falcons, also said it was a privilege to be selected in the first official Victorian First
Butterworth-Gonebale said it’s about representing their people in sport and it building on what their communities state and national programs like the Budgies have been doing for years,
Eyre said she thought it would be lots of fun and something that she wants to be part of in the future.
Back-to-back for gritty Gisborne
By Tara Murray
Itwasn’tprettybutGisbornedugdeeptomake it back-to-back premierships in the Bendigo Netball League on Saturday.
The Bulldogs had four of their five netball teams in grand final action on Saturday, with the first three decided in thrillers.
The day finished with the A-grade side taking on Kangaroo Flat.
For most of the game, the premiership cup looked to be heading to Kangaroo Flat.
But the Bulldogs dug deep and were able to come away with a 43-41 win.
Bulldogs coach Tarryn Rymer said it was an amazing effort to come back and win.
“They really got the jump on us and at one point in the third quarter we were nine goals down,” she said.
“We didn’t play well, it was good that the girls were able to come together as a unit and bring themselves together and put together a good quality last quarter and get us the lead.”
The Bulldogs also had to come from behind in last year’s grand final as well. On that occasion they won in extra time.
Rymer said the two games were very different despite being down in both.
“Last year I thought we played really beautiful netball the whole game,” she said. “It was some of our best netball.
“Yesterday [Saturday], it felt messy and scrappy and hard work. We were behind for a reason.
“I knew if the girls could steady themselves and regain some control with slowly Ash [Ryan] in the midcourt it just made a bit of a difference.”
After trailing by nine goals in the third quarter it was back to five at three quarter time, which was also the half time margin.
The Bulldogs had made some changes to their line up to try and get back into the game.
The circle defenders in Charlee Kemp and Zoe Davies switched positions while Tiana Newman went into centre, Emerson Lakey in wing attack and Maddy Stewart into wing defence.
The Bulldogs levelled the scores midway through the last quarter before hitting the front nine minutes into the last quarter.
The Bulldogs didn’t give up the lead from thereandmanagedtogetseveralbigrebounds.
“It was one of those days that you just have to get the job done,” said Rymer. “It kind of felt like that.
“I was proud of the girls to pull through under those circumstances when it felt like things weren’t going our way.”
Torie Skrijel was named best on court.
Rymer said her young shooter was so calm, cool and collected the whole game, despite being super nervous.
“She just held and did all the right things and kept control of the game,” she said. “I’m
very proud of her.”
Rymer said they never really thought about going back-to-back. She said it was more about wanting to get the job done.
It was the club’s third A-grade premiership, having also won in 2013.
Tiana Newman has played in all premierships. Rymer played in the first one and has been coach the next two.
The Bulldogs B-grade side also claimed the premiership, while A-reserve and B-reserve suffered losses as did the three football sides.
Rymer said they put a real focus on the whole netball program.
“A-res was a goal after the siren which was pretty shattering considering we hadn’t lost all season,” she said.
“Our B-grade pretty much won in the last 10 seconds. It was a bit heartbreaking seeing some of those teams not get over the line.
“But grand finals are hard to win and considering it was nice to see that united front of all the girls together on the court.
“Our win is everyone’s win.”
Jemiah Niki with the goal attack bib. (Supplied)
Gisborne’s A-grade side. (Gisborne FNC Facebook)
Gisborne’s B-grade side. (Gisborne FNC Facebook)
Bernacki, Blake part of three-way medal tussle
All eyes were on Gisborne as the final votes of the Bendigo Football League Michelsen Medal were revealed on Sunday night.
Entering the final round, the Bulldogs had the three top place getters of the league’s highest football honour.
Ruck Braidon Blake was sitting first on 19 votes, while midfielders Brad Bernacki and Flynn Lakey were a further vote back.
Sandhurst’s Lachlan Tardrew polled three votes in the final round to take the lead and try to steal the show.
So it came down to the final game between Gisborne and Kangaroo Flat, which the Bulldogs won by 197 points.
Blake, who had 45 hitouts, received the one vote to tie with Tardrew.
Two votes went to Bernacki, who was given best by the Bulldogs, to make it a three way tie. So it came down to the final votes of the
night with Lakey a chance to claim the medal outright. Lakey had 48 disposals in the final round. He finished second last year.
The three votes though went to Pat McKenna, who kicked eight goals, resulting in the first three way tie since 1979.
Both Blake and Bernacki said it was incredible to win the Michelsen Medal. Both said they thought that Lakey would poll the three votes to win it.
Blake said he didn’t think he had a chance of winning it.
“I can’t believe it,” he said. “The experience is even more special to share it with my best mate Brad. It was a good season and it was good to be on the park most weeks, which is something different for me.
“I just go out there and play my role for the team. I didn’t think I had a chance to win it as I’m a ruck and we don’t poll well.
“I thought I was there to support Brad or Flynn or someone else.“
Bernacki thought he would finish second again having just missed out in a number of best and fairests before.
He said he thought Tardrew was going to take out the honour.
“It’s pretty special to be honest,” he said. “I thought we were going to pinch votes from each other and we’d have a few blokes poll 10 votes but the three of us polled well and the others topped us up.
“I’ve finished second in a few different leagues and I thought I was jinxed.”
Bernacki said he thought he had a solid enough year but had some up and down performances.
He said since joining the club in 2019 and hasn’t looked elsewhere as he loves playing with the group of guys they’ve got.
Bulldogs fall just short
By Tara Murray
A late Gisborne comeback fell just short as it was a tough day on the football field for the Bulldogs in the Bendigo Football League grand finals.
Having seen their under-18s and reserves suffer losses earlier in the day, the Bulldogs were hoping to turn the tide in the seniors against Sandhurst, which had claimed the other two football premierships.
The Bulldogs led by seven points at quarter time before trailing by two at the main break. They call the third quarter the premiership quarter and it was that for the Dragons. The Dragons kicked five goals to one to open by a 25 point lead heading into the final quarter.
TheBulldogsmanagedtocomehomestrong, but fell just short, losing 10.8 (68)-10.4 (64).
Bulldogs skipper Jack Reaper said it wasn’t to be for them.
“Weleftourruntoolate,”hesaid.“Weplayed
some ordinary football in the second and third quarters.
“We had the wind in the second quarter and wesaidtonotbombitinlongandwebombedit in long. In the third quarter they had the wind and we made a few bad decisions to leave us chasing in the last quarter.”
Reaper said they still had faith they could get the job done in the final quarter. They kicked two goals within the first five minutes to make the game interesting.
Sandhurst was able to get one back to steady and it would be enough for them to hold on.
“We knew that we could score goals quickly and we kicked two in the first five minutes,” Reaper said. “We were hoping to not be in that position of having to kick five or six goals. We took the game on and it was a case of trying to try and win the game by a couple of goals or lose it by 10 goals.
“We got a goal in the 31st minute to get it backtofourpoints.Sandhurstwereabletohold
The pair, who also happen to be best mates, were both full of praise for each other and making playing their roles easier.
While excited for the medal both have bigger things on their minds, this weekend’s grand final.
“That’s why you play footy for,” Blake said. “We’re looking forward to it and it’s been a successful year for the club so far.
“We want to finish it off this week and bring home the trophies.”
Bernacki added,” we’ve got seven of our eight teams in grand finals. It’s a massive day for the club.”
Meanwhile in the Betty Thompson Medal, Gisborne’s Maddy Stewart finished runners-up. The two-time winner, who has finished second on a number of occasions too, finished on 18 votes behind winner Chelsea Sartori on 20 votes.
Sports shorts
Coates Talent League
Calder Cannons Jayden Nguyen finished third in the Coates Talent League Morrish Medal. Nguyen finished on 18 votes, three votes behind winner Xavier Lindsay. Cannons teammates Damon Hollow and Isaac Kako also finished in the top 10. Kako was the only Cannon named in the boys team of the year. Cannon Kyla Forbes was named in the girls team of the year.
RDFL
Lancefield has locked in Ryan O’Meara as its senior coach for next year’s Riddell District Football League season. O’Meara was co-coach for the back end of this season after Tim Bannan stepped down. O’Meara is a multiple premiership player for the Tigers and was a player-coach in 1997-98. “We are so lucky to have Ryan step up and take on this coaching role, he is a true legend of our club and has so much football knowledge to share with the footy sides next season,” the club said.
GDCA
on from there.”
Pat McKenna kicked three goals for the Bulldogs, while Matthew Merrett kicked two goals.
Reaper was named the Bulldogs best along with Liam Spear and Macklan Lord.
Inthereserves,theBulldogslosttoSandhurst 11.5 (71)-4.11 (35), while the under-18s lost to Sandhurst, 12.14 (86)-2.5 (17).
While disappointed with the way the season finished, Reaper said they’d made some big inroads with seven of the club’s eight senior sides all making grand finals.
Last season the senior side failed to make finals after winning the premiership in 2022.
“It was much better than what happened last year,” he said. “We’ve re-signed most of the list and the coaches have re-signed.
“Hopefully we can pick up some recruits and continue to build. Hopefully we’ll come back better next year, there’ll be a lot of fire in the belly.”
Macedon has added an import to its squad for the Gisborne and District Cricket Association McIntyre Cup season. Alex Browne joins the club having spent the winter playing for Thame Town where he had a successful season with the bat and ball. As well as his abilities on field, the club is hoping he will provide the younger players experience and guidance throughout the season. This season will be the second season the Cats have been in the top flight.
Coates Talent League
Sunbury Lions’ Grace Azzopardi has claimed the Meg McArthur Medal as the Calder Cannons best and fairest in the Coates Talent League girls competition. Azzopardi was co-captain this season in her final season at the Cannons. Ellie Sbeghen finished second and Taylah Gilcrist, who has played netball for the Sunbury Lions, finished in third.
FOR MORE SPORT, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Sunbury & Macedon Ranges Star
Zac Denahy. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 420265_21
