Full steam ahead!
All aboard! The Sunbury Model Railway Club is hosting its annual model train exhibition this month.
The exhibition will include demonstrations of model train sets and modelling techniques along with trade stands selling a variety of model trains and railway parts.
Sunbury Model Railway Club treasurer and exhibition organiser Michael Holian said that building and operating model trains is a multidisciplinary pursuit.
“It seems to draw a lot of people that are just into trains generally [who] either photograph them and then they want to get into models [or] they like the technical side of it. There are a lot of different aspects,” Mr Holian said.
“I started as a kid. My father was involved in the hobby and he’s been a member of the club for as long as I can remember. He was treasurer of the club for 21 years and when he stood down as treasurer I took over him. It’s sort of been a father-son activity,” he said.
He said that the club is always looking for new members – especially younger people – to get involved with the hobby.
The exhibition will be held on Saturday, October 19 and Sunday, October 20 from 10am–5pm at St Anne’s Hall in Sunbury.
Women’s health boost
By Oscar Parry
A specialised women’s health clinic will be opened at Kyneton Health.
The state government announced on Wednesday, October 2 that Kyneton Health, run by Central Highlands Rural Health, is one of20locationsselectedforafreeandspecialised women’s health clinic, funded through the government’s women’s health package. Each of the clinics will provide access to specialist nursing and allied health support for conditions including endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), pelvic pain, incontinence, perimenopause, and menopause.
Central Highlands Rural Health chief executive Maree Cuddihy said that the organisation was “really pleased” with the announcement of the new centre.
“Having a specific focus and really listening to women and spending time with women across various illnesses has not necessarily
had as much focus in the past,” Ms Cuddihy said. “We have previously been selected and just have established a sexual health and reproductive hub … so we’re in the process of setting that up. Then the opportunity was made available to us to nominate interest in establishing a [women’s health] clinic, and we were keen to do that,” she said.
“A hospital such as Kyneton Health can do it well and safely, and we have a range of specialists who are keen to work with us in establishing the model.”
She said that the organisation hopes to open the new women’s health clinic by the end of this year.
Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas said
that the centres will offer broad services.
“We know the gender health gap is real –that is why we’re offering these important services under one roof to give Victorian women easier access to the wide-ranging specialist treatments they so desperately need,” Ms Thomas said.
The announcement also listed Goulburn Valley Health in Shepparton, Western Health Sunshine Hospital in St Albans, Eastern Health in Blackburn South, and Monash HealthinClaytonashospitalsthatwillreceive new women’s health clinics.
Women have their say on top health concerns, page 12.
Sunbury Model Railway Club treasurer and exhibition organiser Michael Holian with an operating layout. (Damjan Janevski). 434995_05
Sunbury seniors celebrate centre
Demolition works on the Sunbury Senior Citizens are set to begin this month, which will see the 52-year-old building replaced with a larger, modern facility.
The new building’s features will include multi-use spaces with flexible seating options, animprovedkitchenandcoffeearea,enhanced outdoor spaces, and audiovisual facilities.
Sunbury Seniors Club president Louise Zambello said that she and her husband Frank Zambello were committed in their advocacy for improvements to the centre.
“It’s taken a while … in fact, it took approximately five years of advocating to Hume and the state that the Sunbury Seniors building erected in the early 1970s was shabby, deteriorating, no longer fit for purpose and
in need of a dramatic refurbishment,” Ms Zambello said. “It took a while. We asked, everyone concerned finally listened, they’re now delivering. Sunbury Seniors is excited!,” she said.
Ms Zambello said that the focus of her messaging throughout her advocacy was that shefeltthatSunburyneededimprovedfacilities for seniors.
“Our primary focus was that Hume … and the state … in partnership over the last few years have provided some fabulous facilities to the Sunbury community, for example a dog park,innovativeplaygrounds,schoolupgrades, sporting facilities … but we couldn’t see much evidence of providing state-of-the-art facilities for seniors – who are an age group that is
definitely growing and settling in Sunbury,” she said.
Despite the fact that the Sunbury Seniors Citizens Club, now with 56 members, will be a key user group of the new facilities, Ms Zambello said that the building will be available for a variety of local senior groups.
“The land the current building resides on is Crown Grant land and is specifically dedicated for senior citizens purposes only, so …allgroupswithinSunburydedicatedtolocal seniors’ activities [can] use the new facility if there is space available,” she said.
Ms Zambello said that the rebuild of the centre has received joint funding of $4.2 millionfromthestateandHumeCouncil,with an estimated completion date of October 2025.
Cathouse Players take to the stage
Kyneton theatre company Cathouse Players will be under the limelight this month when the group performs its next production titled Trap for a Lonely Man.
A full-length play by French writer and director Robert Thomas, the psychological thriller is set in a rented chalet in the French Alps in the 1950s and follows newly-wed character Daniel Corban who is searching for his missing wife Elizabeth.
When he is reunited with someone who he believes is not actually his missing wife, Daniel
struggles with his sanity and feels trapped in a sinister web of intrigue.
Cathouse Players artistic director Bette Sartore said that she is enthusiastic about the play.
“Despite a lengthy and widespread search to successfully cast a great, full-length Australian play, and even with the performing rights already secured, I was unsuccessful and time was not on my side. So, my decision to reprise Trap for a Lonely Man by Robert Thomas was actually a no-brainer,” Ms Sartore said.
“It’s a cracker of a play, and I could cast it easily, switch a couple of roles, and introduce two new and experienced performers Graham Pitts and Mark Fuller to tread our Cathouse boards,” she said.
The play will be performed at the Kyneton Masonic Centre over six sessions between October 18–27.
Tickets are $20–25 all inclusive.
Details: www.trybooking.com/CURGO
Oscar Parry
Old bridge set to reopen
The picturesque access bridge at Malmsbury Reservoir will be reinstated this month after an extensive restoration process.
Restoration to the heritage-listed bridge included replacing its foundation and repairing and refurbishing the steel bridge structure, its cast iron supports and bluestone abutment.
The bridge ceased operation in 2017 after an engineering audit determined it was no longer safe for use.
Cooliban Water asset lifecycle general manager Marsha McMonigle said she was looking forward to seeing the bridge serve its purpose once again.
“Several years of careful planning have been invested in this project. The painstaking work then began to repair and replace parts of the walkway which had buckled and corroded over more than 100 years,” Ms McMonigle said.
“We’ve also been able to restore the coating of the structure to match its original white colour.”
Ms McMonigle said that Cooliban Water worked with Heritage Victoria, Dja Dja Wurrung and other stakeholders in the lead up to the works and that the $895,000 project willpreservethestructureandprovide service staff with safe access to the reservoir tower.
Malmsbury Reservoir was built in 1870, with the current dam outlet, tower and 50-metre long access bridge constructed in 1906.
Oscar Parry
Data shows crime on the rise in Hume, Macedon Ranges
Overallcrimeoffencesroseslightlythisyearin both Hume and Macedon Ranges, according to new data published by the Crime Statistics Agency (CSA).
In Hume, there were 14,817 recorded criminal offences in the year ending June 30 –a 12.7 per cent rise from the 13,152 recorded offences in the previous year.
In Sunbury, recorded offences rose to 1808 this year – 225 more than the 1583 recorded in the year prior.
The statistics revealed that the top offences in Hume were stealing from a motor vehicle (2124 offences recorded), other theft (1770
offences recorded), and criminal damage (1188 offences recorded).
A Victoria Police spokesperson said that stealing from a motor vehicle and motor vehicle theft are some of the fastest growing crimes across the state.
“We urge the community to take simple measures such [as] removing valuables and ensuring cars are locked at all times,” the spokesperson said.
“Propertycrimeremainsakeypriorityfor… Hume police. The community can be assured we’re focused on the issue and have a number ofproactiveoperationscomingupinthearea.”
Macedon Ranges saw a slight increase of 1.1 per cent when compared to the previous year’s statistics, with 1584 recorded offences this year.
Offences rose from 361 to 406 in Kyneton and 320 to 351 in Gisborne, putting these two towns at the top of the list for recorded offences.
The top offences recorded in Macedon Rangeswereothertheft(175offencesrecorded), criminal damage (150 offences recorded) and family violence order breaches (150 offences recorded).
Victoria Police superintendent Brad Dixon
said that opportunistic crimes continue to be a major concern for police.
“When population growth is considered, crime in the Macedon Ranges is at its second lowest level in a decade,” Mr Dixon said.
“Over the past year, there were 289 family violence order breaches, which is due to the proactiveworkofourspecialistfamilyviolence unit detectives who work every day to target perpetrators and keep victims safe.”
AcrossVictoria,therewere552,228criminal offences recorded in the 12 months to June 2024, an increase of 46,014 offences or 9.1 per cent from the previous 12 months.
Cathouse Players actors Galen Sartore and Frank Sartore are ready to take the stage. (Damjan Janevski) 434820_04
A concept image of the new Sunbury Seniors Citizens Centre. (Supplied).
Kyneton palm reaches new heights in tree comp
An enormous palm tree in Kyneton has been nominated for the Victorian Tree of the Year, where it will stand off against eight other leafy contenders.
According to the Victorian Heritage Database, the Chilean wine palm located at the entrance of the Kyneton Botanic Gardens was planted in the 1870s and was 13.5 metres tall when it was last measured in in the early 1980s.
Now endangered, Chilean wine palms are native to South America and boast a thick trunk and a dense crown of leaves.
They are one of the largest palms in the world, and this particular tree in Kyneton is the largest of the species in Victoria.
Hosted by heritage organisation the National Trust of Australia, the annual Victorian Tree of the Year competition celebrates well-known trees in the state and aims to highlight the importance of trees in communities and the environment.
National Trust of Australia (Victoria) acting chief executive Brook Powell said that the competition is an opportunity to appreciate the trees around us.
“These trees provide their local communities with serenity and respite and represent the diverse and awe-inspiring beauty of Victoria’s natural environment,” Ms Powell said.
“We encourage all Victorians to have their say in recognising these majestic members of our community.”
Other Victorian trees shortlisted as finalists include a mountain ash in Mt Fatigue and a 40-metre-tall ponderosa pine in the Ballarat Botanic Gardens.
Voting is now open and will close at midnight on Tuesday, October 29, with
a winner announced on Tuesday, November 12. Details: nationaltrust.org.au/ treeoftheyear
Oscar Parry
Briefs
Fake tickets scam warning
Residents in Melbourne’s west are among the most scammed in Australia, according to new data. Clever scammers prayed on footy fans after finding success selling fake Taylor Swift tickets and running dodgy investment ploys, one of Australia’s big four banks says. The pivot to catch out diehard fanatics for the AFL and NRL grand finals continued a trend of scammers developing methods to anything that sells out quickly or is hard to come by. Australians have reported almost $300 million in losses from 273,000 scams in the past year, the National Anti-Scam Centre says. - AAP
Prioritise work safety this month Safe Work Australia is encouraging Australians, including those in Sunbury and Macedon Ranges, to focus on safety this month for National Safe Work Month. Held each October, National Safe Work Month is aimed at uniting workplaces across Australia in recognising the importance of work health and safety. This year’s National Safe Work Month theme, titled ‘safety is everyone’s business’, calls on workplaces across the country to prioritise workplace safety. According to 2023 data from Safe Work Australia, there were 200 work-related deaths in Australia and 139,000 serious workers’ compensation claims were made.
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Web: starweekly.com.au
Sunbury & Macedon Ranges Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly
The gigantic palm is located near the entrance to the Kyneton Botanic Gardens. (Supplied)
Helping protect plants from peril
By Oscar Parry
Private gardens can play a role in saving endangered plants, and an upcoming talk by the Kyneton Horticultural Society will explain how.
Hosted by Ironstone Park Nursery Heathcote owner Peter Broughton the talk will educate attendees about endangered Australian native plants, why these species are endangered, and how to grow them in your backyard.
Mr Broughton has an extensive history of finding and propagating rare Australian native plants – especially those close to extinction.
“One of the questions … I ask [people] is how many plants they think are endangered in just Victoria. And you get your typical 20, 30, 50 maybe – but the last count was about two and half thousand just in Victoria,” Mr Broughton said.
He said that in conversations with others, he sensed they were hesitant to purchase
endangered plants due to the assumption that they are difficult to grow.
“The reality of it is that it’s probably got a better chance of surviving in their garden than it has in the wild. The more of these rarer plantswecanpropagate,themoreofthemyou can put out into people’s gardens,” he said.
“The Woolemi pine – one classic example … they propagated a lot of them, people put them in pots and put them in their gardens, so it did, to a point, ensure its survival.“
Mr Broughton hopes to expand his native
Woodend Rotarian’s polio mission
A Woodend resident will walk 100 kilometres this month in an effort to raise funds towards eradicating polio.
Woodend Rotary member Grant Hocking is taking on the challenge as part of this month’s Rotary Walk With Us event, where participants walk, run, or roll a set amount of kilometres throughout the month to raise funds towards further distributing polio vaccines.
He aims to raise 1000 dollars before the end of October.
“The reason we chose polio is obviously
that it’s still around … a lot of people aren’t aware, we’ve had a vaccine for over 50 to 60 years now, but there’s still wild polio endemic in some parts of the world,” Mr Hocking said.
“Our goal is obviously to eradicate it.”
He said that the month-long challenge started in 2020 when larger group walk fundraisersonWorldPolioDayonOctober24 were not possible due to COVID restrictions.
“Apart from just the benefit of fundraising for a good cause, to end polio, it had mental health and general health benefits, so we’ve done it every year since … in the past four
years, the Walk With Us campaign has raised about $400,000.”
Mr Hocking said that each year, Rotary International aims to raise 50 million dollars towards eradicating polio, with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation also donating two dollars to each dollar raised by Rotary.
Donations can be made on Mr Hocking’s Rotary Walk With Us fundraiser page.
Details: https://www.rotarywalkwithus. org/fundraisers/granthocking/ rotary-walk-with-us
October is frogtober so listen out for calls
The onset of October means it’s ‘Frogtober’ too and Melbourne Water is encouraging citizen scientists to get involved by recording and submitting frog calls.
The frog calls can be uploaded on the free frog census app which was launched by Melbourne Water in 2016 and averages 1700 frog call submissions per year.
“Usually, we tell people to disengage from technology when they’re enjoying the natural environment, but during ‘Frogtober’, we want them to take their phone to their local creek or waterway and use the app to help us collect valuable environmental data,” said Melbourne Water ecologist and waterwatch coordinator Jane Petch.
Each frog call submitted will be analysed by an ecologist before being added to a statewide database.
Ms Petch explained what it would then be used for.
“The data we gather via the frog census app inform Melbourne Water’s decisions about waterways and environment projects.”
Thefrogcensuswasinitiatedin2001andhas historically focussed on recording frog calls in metro Melbourne during April, August, October and November when frogs are most active.
“Frogs can be found all over Melbourne and regional Victoria and can be heard calling from where water is found in bushland, parks and gardens, and urban areas,” said Ms Petch.
As an ‘indicator species’, frogs are considered crucial to understanding the health of the environment due to their sensitivity to environmental changes in water and land and being an important part of the food chain.
garden soon and host public open days for visitors to learn about endangered plants.
“To see plants from all over Australia that are on their last legs. Some of these plants are beautiful things in flower … it sort of jogs the heart strings a bit.”
The talk will be hosted at the Kyneton Football and Netball Club rooms on Monday, October 21 from 7pm.
Details: https://events.humanitix.com/ kyneton-horticultural-society-annualmembership
Upgrade works to the NBN fixed wireless network are continuing in Hume and Macedon Ranges, with planned outages and service interruptions expected.
Fixed wireless technology is mainly used in expanding regional areas to connect homes and businesses to NBN coverage, where users receive broadband signals from transmission towers to an antenna installed on their roof.
The works are aimed at improving internet speed and providing larger nbn network coverage in these areas.
Upgrades to towers in Lancefield North and Kalkallo mean that homes and businesses in the region may experience disruptions to their NBN service throughout the next few weeks.
The company intends to minimise service interruptions as much as possible during the upgrade works, such as migrating users over to temporary connections, however there are occasions when towers may be taken offline.
Homes and businesses that will be impacted may have already been notified of the planned outages by their retail service provider.
To get the benefits of the upgrades, homes and businesses may also need to update their nbn device, however not all devices will need to be replaced.
The tower works will not impact NBN fixed line or NBN sky muster satellite services.
Details: www.nbnco.com.au/blog/ the-nbn-project/delivering-a-betterbroadband-experience-for-the-bush
Melbourne Water is encouraging citizen scientists to record and submit frog calls this Frogtober.
Woodend Rotary member Grant Hocking during a previous Rotary End Polio Now group walk in Canberra. (Supplied)
Sunbury Show returns
By Oscar Parry
Featuring animals, rides, competitions, and entertainment, Clarke Oval will be full of life as the annual Sunbury Show kicks off this Saturday.
The show will provide live entertainment, including from local school choirs and dance groups,andincludesarangeofanimal-related events and competitions like a petting zoo, dog high jump, pet parade, and horse and cattle shows.
Sunbury Show committee secretary
Narelle Reino said that the event has a strong community focus and will showcase local community groups and businesses.
“The Sunbury Connected Communities and the Bendigo Bank, they’ve actually made all of our pavilion entries free to everyone this year, trying to really reconnect with the community, with the schools, and the older generation, because after COVID, even the entries were down considerably,” Ms Reino said.
She said that this year’s show includes a community hub, hosted at a pavilion room provided by the Sunbury Bowling Club, which will give local community groups an opportunity to promote their organisations and seek members.
Ms Reino said that the Sunbury Show has retained the charm of a traditional agricultural show.
“We have an amazing MC, we do [a] gumboot throwing toss, we try and do a tug-of-war … it’s going back to the old games that they used to play … it’s our 102nd show this year,” she said.
“We’ve got free trail bags as well for the kids, there are 500 of them … there’s drinks, there’s food, there’s toys that they can pick up around the area, and that has all come from
the local communities.”
The Sunbury Show will run from 8.30am–5pm on Saturday, October 12 at Sunbury Recreation.
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Tickets are $20 per adult, $5 per child, and $40 for a family of up to two adults and four children.
Details: https://sunburyshow.au/
Getting fire season ready
Macedon Ranges council officers and several emergency service respresentatives toured Coliban Water’s three main reservoirs as part of fire season preparedness.
Representatives from the Country Fire Authority, Victoria Police, Macedon Ranges council and Fire Rescue Victoria visited the reservoirs earlier this month to meet with Coliban Water staff and share information.
Coliban Water asset lifecycle general manager Marsha McMonigle said attendees shared a common goal of protecting and supporting communities.
“It’s important to engage with our colleagues at these agencies and share valuable information about reservoir management. It’s about protecting our people and our assets in the event of an emergency,”MsMcMoniglesaid.“Ifthere is an incident on our land, emergency services will also need to know where likely fire ignition points might be.”
Attendees are all members of the Macedon Ranges Municipal Fire Planning Committee, which is a cross agency committee coordinated by Macedon Ranges council.
“By providing a chance for them to get to know our reservoirs, it means we’re better connected, and we can have a conversation before it becomes a bigger issue,” Ms McMonigle said.
When preparing for the fire season, residents are urged to ensure that they have an alternate source of water, know who to contact in an emergency, and understand the risks at their property.
Fire danger period warning
CFA is urging Hume and Macedon Ranges residents to take extra precautions while burning-off ahead of the Fire Danger Period (FDP) to avoid penalties and unnecessary use of emergency services resources.
Last year, CFA responded to 819 callouts for escaped burn-offs between January and December, with 48 per cent (396 incidents) occurring in September, October, and November alone.
fines and liability for damages caused.”
Under the CFA Act, penalties for allowing a burn-off to escape during a declared FDP can include fines up to $23,710, 12 months imprisonment, or both.
Thepenaltyisdoubledifanescapeoccurson a Total Fire Ban Day.
“No-Win-No-Fee” offered.
This concerning trend appears to be ongoing in2024,withCFAalreadyhavingrespondedto 37 incidents throughout September.
CFA chief officer Jason Heffernan said this number is far too high and emphasised the widespread impact escaped burn-offs have.
“We are aiming for a significant reduction in escaped burn-off incidents this season as we head towards the FDP,” he said.
“Last year’s numbers, especially during Spring, placed an unnecessary strain on CFA crews, neighbouring properties, and the community.
“Letting a burn-off escape during the FDP can result in severe penalties, including heavy
District 22 assistant chief fire officer Rohan Taylor highlighted a grass fire in regional Victoria, near Violet Town, that was the result of an escaped burn-off.
The Violet Town incident was not registered online as a burn-off, which added additional challenges for responders, he said.
“The most important steps are registering your burn-off, ensuring you have the tools to manageit,andmonitoringitclosely,”headded.
“Westronglyencourageresidentstocleanup their properties before the bushfire season, but safety must always come first.
“With warmer and drier conditions predicted for this fire season, it’s more critical than ever to handle burn-offs responsibly.”
For more information or to register your burn-off, visit the CFA website.
Sunbury CFA volunteer firefighters Jason Govan and Darryl Van Rooy. (Damjan Janevski) 428161_01
An attendee enjoying the Sunbury Show in 2023. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 363956_27
Hume candidate condemns vandals
Hume council candidate Jack Medcraft said he was “disappointed” when he discovered that some of his election campaign signs were vandalised and stolen this month.
In the leadup to this year’s local council elections at the end of this month, candidates across Hume have installed signage across the region.
Mr Medcraft, who has been a long-standing councillor and is running again, said that he was angry to discover that several of his signs had been destroyed.
Mr Medcraft said that two of his election signsweredefacedwithspraypaint– including with vulgar imagery – and three were stolen. He said that he is opposed to the defacing of
election material.
“I just think it’s a blight on society that people can just go out and destroy property that’s been paid for. They don’t have any consequences, and they’re cowards because they usually do it under the cover of darkness,” he said.
Mr Medcraft said that he contacted police to report the offences.
As a replacement for his sabotaged signs, Mr Medcraft said that he planned to invest in a temporary sign.
“I’ve got something planned where I’m going to have a replacement sign put up, but it might be a case of daylight only,” he said.
According to the Local Government
Inspectorate, any form of signage vandalism is a matter for local police.
Victoria Police was contacted for comment. Anyone who witnessed the incidents or has information can contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
council
Jack
New water tanker for Romsey brigade
RomseyFireBrigadewelcomedanewmedium tanker into its engine bay, celebrating the handover with members and a visit from a local politician.
Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas passed over the keys to the medium tanker to Romsey FireBrigademembersonThursday,October3.
Romsey Fire Brigade captain Nic Needham said the new vehicle would enhance firefighter safety through several modern features.
“The Hino GT medium tanker provides almost 2500 litres of useable firefighting water,” Mr Needham said.
“It has [a] front-mounted monitor …
which allows for in-vehicle firefighting, and a four-wheel drive crew cabin, which allows a crew of five to travel safely together in the cabin [with] greater offroad capability,” he said.
With an average of 85 callouts per year, and with 44 brigade members, Mr Needham said the new tanker was a fantastic addition to the fleet before the fast-approaching fire season.
“All of the members are super excited to have a new vehicle,” he said.
“The vehicle couldn’t arrive at a more opportune time, and to be able to put it online prior to the fire season is a real plus. It
gives us an operating platform to work from and allows us to switch out whether we send tanker one or tanker two on strike teams, giving us more capacity. If the pumper and tanker attend a callout, it gives us the ability to leave a firefighting appliance in the town that can provide coverage from a structural and wildfire perspective.”
The new tanker replaces a single-cab two-wheel drive tanker and was purchased through the Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program, with a total cost of $392,000 and a brigade contribution of $58,000.
Free travel for seniors
OlderVictoriansarebeingencouraged to get out and about next week, with the state government offering eight daysoffreepublictransportforseniors card holders.
Ageing Minister Ingrid Stitt and Public and Active Transport Minister Gabrielle Williams visited Flinders Street Station on Tuesday to make the announcement which is aimed at helping older people participate in the Victorian Seniors Festival from October 6 to 13.
DeliveredinpartnershipwithPublic Transport Victoria and V/Line, the free travel applies to all forms of public transport including trams, trains, buses and coach services in metro, regional and rural areas.
To qualify, commuters will need to carry their seniors card while travelling and touch on and off with their myki as usual – but myki cards won’t be charged.
“Theseeightdaysoffreetravelareall about celebrating our older Victorians and helping them to fully embrace the fantastic seniors festival events across the state,” Ms Stitt explained.
Ms Williams said the free travel wasn’t just for seniors living in Melbourne.
“This is the perfect chance for seniors to see new parts of our state, revisit favourite spots, and enjoy everything Victoria has on offer.“
The 2024 seniors festival features a variety of events and experiences for older Victorians, including musical theatre, bike rides and historical tours.
To explore the full range of festival events, visit: seniorsonline.vic.gov.au/ festival-calendar.
For more information about the eight days of free public transport, visit: seniorsonline.vic.gov.au/ free-travel.
‘Feedback not heard’: Level crossing design ‘dismay’
The Diggers Rest Level Crossing Removal Project was meant to ‘ensure a safer and more connected’ town, but some locals say it is inadequate.
LocaladvocacygroupDREAMis‘dismayed’ with what it claims is a lack of consideration for community feedback, which highlighted multiple design flaws.
This includes the placement of bus stops, whichitbelieveswillthreatenpedestriansafety and increase traffic.
DREAM claims the current configuration of the proposed stops, located on the
north-bound side of the station, will likely increase congestion and safety risks.
It means passengers must cross the tracks and face a wait of several minutes at a time.
As well as that, it will increase congestion from the constant merging of the buses on and off the road, which would be shared by trucks and cars, the group said.
The group proposed moving the bus stops to the south-bound side, meaning commuters would be dropped off on the side of the station that heads towards the city.
However, a letter from Transport
Infrastructure Minister Danny Pearson, seen by Star Weekly, disputes this, stating the bus stopsitewasdeterminedtobethe‘bestlocation to service existing routes’.
In the letter, Mr Pearson told DREAM that buses would “be unable to turn around to continue their route through Diggers Rest“.
DREAM member Paul Rodgers said the project “wasn’t really an upgrade” in some senses.
“As a pedestrian, you’ve either got to cross therailline–ahazard–ormakethe400-metre trip over the road bridge where the footpath
runs out at the roundabout [on the Old Calder Highway].”
Mr Rogers, who joined the group more than 12 months ago, said the community felt unheard and that there are “a lot of unhappy people.”
“It seems like they’ve got their idea of what they want and they are going to do that,” he said. “They try to take the public’s feedback on board but you don’t feel like anything happens after that … nothing has changed since their initial designs… despite everything that we have raised.”
Former councillor and
election candidate
Medcraft standing in front of a vandalised wall earlier this year. (Damjan Janevski) 410264_01
Romsey Fire Brigade members, District 2 commander Darren Brown, and Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas at the handover event. (Supplied)
MY PLACE
Macedon Ranges Spinners and Fibre Group president Kerri Borg is a passionate textile artist and Sunbury resident. Oscar Parry spoke with Kerri about her connection to Sunbury and the joys of being involved with the spinners and fibre group.
What is your connection to Sunbury?
My husband Ray and I built our house and moved to Sunbury in 1984. We raised our two children in this area and both are still living in the region. Both Ray and I have worked in this region – Ray at Gisborne Secondary College and myself at Sunbury and Macedon Ranges Specialist School until I retired. I also taught swimming for several years and taught piano privately for many years.
We have been involved with the Sunbury Conservationgroupinthepast.Ilovetakingmy dogs to the off-lead area and enjoying the fruits of our labour and remembering seeing our children getting involved, forming friendships, and having fun. I was also a volunteer with the OrganPipesNationalPark,theLeprosyMission and the Sunbury Winter Shelter through St AndrewsUnitingChurch.Morerecently,Ihave joined the Sunbury Art Society.
What do you like about where you live?
I love the walking paths that meander through the estates of Sunbury, the greenery, and the fauna in the area. The bird life in particular is so diverse and spectacular. The generosity of locals and businesses supporting the various volunteer groups is simply heart-warming.
What, if anything, would you change about where you live?
I would like to slow progress a little, this town is exploding. But I guess you can’t stop progress –weallneedsomewheretoliveandthisisapretty good place to do that. I would like to think with all the new developments we can maintain our
IN FOCUS
open spaces and wildlife corridors. I would love to see some bike [and] walking tracks along Jacksons Creek, it is such a beautiful waterway.
What do you enjoy about being president of the Macedon Ranges Spinners and Fibre Group?
The friendship and support of the group, the knowledgebaseofthegrouprelatingtoallthings fibre and textiles is phenomenal. The group was started as a gathering for women affected by the 1983 Macedon bushfires. A group of women started meeting in members’ homes, then in venues in Woodend, Gisborne, Riddells Creek and now – Bullengarook. We are lucky to have a few sheep breeders in our group, producing high quality fleece that we can purchase our fibre from. As well as sharing our skills [and] crafting items both practical and beautiful, the socialaspectisstillourmostimportantpriority. New members are warmly welcomed by our group of talented [and] friendly women.
How did you get started with your craft?
On the first day of my retirement, I sat in my house and thought about the long list of things I had said I would do when I retired. Top of the list was to learn to use the spinning wheel that had sat in a corner collecting dust for about 30 years. I did a course at the Spinners and Weavers Guild in Brunswick, then took their advice and found a local group. It has been a great decision, it is a group I am proud to be part of and president of – a role I could not do without the assistance of an amazing secretary and treasurer and past presidents to assist me.
Retire in style at Bellbrook Gardens Country Club
Discover a peaceful, social and secure lifestyle amidst resort-style amenities at Bellbrook Gardens Country Club – a highly sought-after community for individuals and couples aged 55+.
With our final stage complete and only three new villas remaining, now is the perfect time to secure your dream home and explore other stunning villas currently available and those coming soon.
Don’t miss out on this opportunity as these homes are expected to sell fast. Join us for our open house event on Monday October 21 at 10.30am and indulge in a delightful morning tea while exploring our modern homes and facilities that are unparalleled in quality and style.
This quality freestanding home Villa 143 is selling for just $725,000 and no stamp duty to pay. This home boasts three large bedrooms, spaciouslivingzones,awellappointedkitchen, outdoor entertaining and a double garage.
This highly regarded villa also offers quality appliances and stone bench tops, built in robes to bedrooms, gas central heating and split system air conditioning, ducted vacuuming, extensive outdoor entertaining, a private rear garden, double garage offering direct access to the villa and much more. An opportunity too good to miss.
Bellbrook Gardens Country Club is part of the Country Club Living group and is located at 168 Underbank Boulevard, less than five minutes to the center of Bacchus Marsh and 15 minutes from Melton.
TheBellbrookGardenscommunityresidents and visitors are delighted by the bright and happy atmosphere. You can embrace life and live your retirement just the way you want with independent, secure living and reassurance for yourself and family.
The Country Club boasts a Community Centre that contains a hairdressing salon, library, billiards room, craft room, and bar.
Advertising feature
(Damjan Janevski) 433580_01
Visit Pillow Talk’s new Melton Homemaker Centre store
Pillow Talk is delighted to announce the grand opening of its brand-new store at the Homemaker Centre in Melton.
This exciting addition brings a fresh and engaging shopping experience to local residents and visitors, featuring an extensive range of stylish and high-quality home furnishings designed to elevate every living space.
Experience the Best in Home Comfort
The new Pillow Talk store showcases a comprehensiveselectionofluxuriousbedding, elegant décor, and functional everyday essentials. Customers can look forward to exploring beautifully curated displays and discovering perfect pieces to enhance their homes.
“We are thrilled with the opening of Pillow Talk in Melton, bringing a shopping experience of space convenience, comfort and style. Our store is not just about providing beautiful products, it’s about creating a warm and welcoming environment where every visit leavesyouwantingformore,“explainedPillow Talk COO Greg Ferguson.
To celebrate this momentous occasion, Pillow Talk is offering an exclusive opportunity for shoppers to win a $1000 gift card! Customers who make any purchase over $85 in-store, before November 6 will automatically be entered into the draw. This fantastic promotion is just one of the ways Pillow Talk is making its mark in the Melton community.
Exclusive Benefits for Club Comfort Members – Pillow Talk’sClubComfortloyaltyprogram continues to offer exceptional benefits to its members.ClubComfortmembersenjoy10per cent off full-price items and 5 per cent off sale items, ensuring that they receive the best value on their purchases. Customers can sign up for free in-store to start enjoying these exclusive discounts immediately.
care, which we live and breathe, is now on your doorstep and ready for you to all enjoy,” explained Kate Spencer Pillow Talk’s CEO.
“We are thrilled to open our newest store concept, where we’ll showcase one of the most exciting and carefully selected homewares ranges, where our quality and customer
In conjunction with the grand opening, Pillow Talk is offering an end of spring sale with discounts of up to 40 per cent on over 500 products. This is a perfect opportunity
New Pillow Talk Melton
for customers to refresh their homes with high-quality items at unbeatable prices.
We invite everyone in Melton to visit our new store at the new Homemaker Centre. Experience the exceptional comfort and style that Pillow Talk is renowned for, and take advantage of our incredible opening offers.
Unlocking potential worldwide
Eynesbury’s Tori Hirt is transforming education with the launch of her new school in Uganda as Afraa Kori reports.
Tori Hirt’s journey began with a powerful decision to leave her comfortable Australian life and gain a closer understanding of global issues in order to inspire change.
“I always wanted to do something regarding a school or an NGO (non-governmental organisation). This was the perfect option for me after my experience living in Uganda and it made sense,” said the 24-year-old.
“I witnessed a lot of corruption while in Uganda by those running schools, NGOs and especially in orphanages. This was a big drive for me, because everyone was looking like they wanted to help children and vulnerable individuals, but all money and benefits went into the pockets of directors and leaders that knew how to use the system to their benefits.
The Ugandan school system is also poor and childrenareoftenlefttofallthroughthecracks, so that was another big driver. Children have a lot of responsibilities at home which is also prioritised, health issues and extremely low financial environments really restrict children from attending school.
“It doesn’t have many welfare/support groups there and only a few schools had high school fees. So it made sense to establish an accessible education centre there.”
‘‘ Once we start looking into issues or areas that aren’t directly in front of us, perspectives and our lives truly change ’’
- Tori Hirt
While the challenges looked gigantic, Tori realised it was the perfect opportunity to take on her dream project, which she has been financing from her own pocket so far.
“Corruption within areas such as children, vulnerable people is so high in Uganda and I want to do the right thing by the community and give them what they deserve and not lie or do it for the wrong reasons. I have worked in child protection within Uganda and worked closely with vulnerable kids, adults and especially women so this school really is for them. I just want to see people really grow and do well. This is also the perfect time for me, it just makes sense to do it now.
“Everyoneisdifferentandeveryonehastheir own goals such as building a house, having a family of their own etc. But I really just want to be able to help others and have a positive impact on the world. So opening this school really does mean the world to me and I just hope we do everything right by these kids.”
Due to welcome its first students in 2025, Lotus Junior School will benefit Ugandan students and families in the village of Nakalama, which is situated in the east of the country.
“LotusJuniorSchoolwillhaveabigemphasis on child safety and wellbeing,“ explained Tori.
“Ourchildrenwillbefedeverydayatnocost tothefamilies,meaningeverychildgetsameal which is not a common occurrence at all, most children do not eat and are left hungry while at school. Students will access free physical and dental checks twice yearly, parents will get school fee help and already reduced fees to reallyencourageschoolattendance.Schoolfees are compulsory at all Ugandan schools and if they are not paid, students are turned away and cannot attend. At Lotus Junior School this system has been removed and a new family support system is in place to encourage school attendance and help our community.”
Parents like Hussein Isabirye, who was concerned about the safety and education of his children, now has hope for a better future.
“I’m very happy for giving us Lotus Junior School and I appreciate the people of Australia for giving us that school in our society. I promise that we shall be together with it and support each other in everything.”
Building new connections with leaders and community groups in Uganda has helped Tori realise her dream.
“From the start of this project I had a very good friend who is our country director (CD) and principal at Lotus Junior School who is versed in business, welfare and the education system which made this process a lot easier. His knowledge and experience have assisted so much while we developed the school,” she said
“Land was easy to access. We got approval from the village’s chairman for the school and a written contract was made. The hurdles were generally things involving money and corruption. However, due to having Ibrahim actively apart of all things a lot of it was alleviated and we had really positive experiences while establishing the school.
“We have hired teachers and school staff, appointed leadership, expanded our land already due to growing demand and exceeding capacity. All buildings and land development will be finalised by December, which is really exciting for us all.”
Tori’s support system in Australia also provided unwavering encouragement and guidance.
“I worked in a school in Melton for 5 years, learnt a lot of administration, welfare and curriculum wise and then when I moved over to Uganda I was very connected with schools due to my role in child protection and safety. I witnessed a lot here, learnt a lot and hope I can really create something special that has a child focused approach and elements that can really enhance a child’s life.
“My youth has probably really influenced
my approach. I had opportunities to work and experience life overseas in vulnerable communities. I went to good schools, had positive role models and influences growing up and my family have always been so incredibly supportive and encouraging of all my ambitious and crazy ideas. I have also grown-up watching family members make incredible differences within the community and hope that I can contribute something even one quarter of the size of what they have.”
Tori hopes her journey encourages young people, entrepreneurs and educators to make a difference in their own way.
“Ihavelearntalotoflessons–Noteveryone has good intentions, protect your heart but never close it, be wise, show confidence and take lessons as a big win,” she said.
“Don’t regret missed opportunities, everything happens for a reason so take the opportunities. Ask for help always, get advice andsupportandgrowyourcircleofsupporters who will be there for you when you need it.
“Obviously at the moment there are a lot of crisis happening both domestically and internationally. I understand that times are hard for people to support things that they don’t directly see. Just because it’s global, in a small community/village that people don’t know about or haven’t heard of doesn’t make the lives of those there any less important. Once we start looking into issues or areas that aren’t directly in front of us, perspectives and our lives truly change.”
To support the school go to gofundme. com/f/lotus-junior-school
Every child deserves a chance to thrive.
Their smile says it all. Tori Hirt with young Ugandan students.
Pilates: a path to wellness for rural communities
Pilates, a form of low-impact exercise, offers health benefits, making it an ideal choice for small regional communities seeking accessible ways to improve overall well-being.
With its focus on slow, controlled movements, core engagement, and breathing control, Pilates is a holistic exercise option that enhances strength, stability, and motor control while addressing a range of physical health issues.
One of the primary advantages of Pilates is its adaptability – anyone can participate, regardless of age, fitness level, or physical condition. For individuals in rural communities, where access to diverse fitness programs might be limited, Pilates provides a versatile solution. It supports those dealing with chronic pain or musculoskeletal injuries, offering a gentle yet effective way to manage discomfort and improve mobility. This makes Pilates particularly beneficial for those with conditions like fibromyalgia or persistent back and neck pain.
Pilates is also well-suited for older adults who may experience reduced mobility, muscle strength, or balance. By focusing on core strength and stability, Pilates helps improve these areas, reducing the risk of falls and enhancing overall quality of life. Additionally, for those recovering from injuries, Pilates serves as a safe, low-impact exercise method to regain strength and ease back into more strenuous activities.
Evenindividualswithoutpainorinjuriescan benefit from Pilates as a preventive measure, reducing the likelihood of future injuries and supporting daily activities and other forms of exercise.
For those interested in starting Pilates, it’s important to undergo an initial assessment. Macedon Ranges Health offers consultations to determine the best form of Pilates suited to your needs. For individuals with chronic
medical conditions, and for those who have had surgery within the past three months, a written clearance from a GP is required to
ensure
a class setting. Try Pilates and discover how it can help improve your health and well-being.
safety in
Explore Pilate’s classes at Macedon Ranges Health by visiting mrh.org.au or call (03) 5428 0300
A new skin cancer clinic opens in Woodend
A state-of-the-art skin cancer clinic has opened in Woodend, offering appointments to patients without the need for a referral from a GP. Skin cancer doctors, Ashvin Arul, Loshna Devamany and Bronwyn Edmunds, live locally and recognised a critical need for a purpose-built skin cancer clinic in the Macedon Ranges.
“Wefrequentlydetectskincancers,”remarks Ashvin, stressing the prevalence with which Australians encounter such conditions.
“SeventypercentofAustralianswillfaceskin cancer at some point, making early detection crucial.”
Equipped with state-of-the-art technology, including full body photo mapping and dermoscopy enhanced by AI-driven camera systems, the clinic aims to revolutionise early detection.
“Our goal is zero deaths from melanoma,” asserts Ashvin.
Loshna advises regular annual skin checks,
even for those unconcerned about specific spots.
“It’s prudent to be aware,” she explains, “as early intervention can be lifesaving.”
Bronwyn advises “The duration something has been present doesn’t guarantee its safety. I’ve diagnosed melanomas in cases where people have said, ‘That’s been there for 10 years,’ which can be concerning.”
Shestressestheimportanceofearlydetection adding, “Our aim is to identify these issues
before they become apparent to the naked eye”. Open Monday through Friday from 8:30am to5pm,theclinicwelcomesappointments. For moreinformationortoscheduleavisit,contact Skin GP Medical at 03 9969 5000 or visit the website skingp.com.au
This new facility promises to be a vital resource in the fight against skin cancer, combining expert medical knowledge with cutting-edge diagnostic tools for the benefit of the local community.
Skin cancer doctors Ashvin Arul, Loshna Devamany and Bronwyn Edmunds.
Healthcare access a top concern
survey asking women to share their health concerns with us.
The campaign is stiving to address the systemic obstacles and barriers women must overcome when managing their health.
Access to healthcare and the costs associated with seeing a doctor are the top health concerns of women living in Melbourne’s western and northern suburbs, a Star Weekly survey has found.
As part of the Women’s Health Matters campaign, Star Weekly ran a six-week online
Survey respondents told us that their top health concerns were access to healthcare, affordable healthcare, healthcare providers’ lack of knowledge about women’s health issues, cervical cancer, breast cancer, menopause and incontinence.
Amassive76percentofsurveyrespondents said they travelled outside of their suburbs to access healthcare.
Women who took the survey told us they
travelled between 20 and 50 minutes to access healthcare.
The most common reasons were to access specialist care and to see a trusted GP.
The survey also found that women living in the northern and western suburbs are typically waiting at least one month to secure an appointment with a specialist.
Thirty-two per cent of respondents said they had seen a specialist for a women’s health issue in the past 12 months, while 84 per cent had visited their GP for a women’s health issue in the past six months.
Women told us that most commonly, they had booked a GP appointment for concerns
about menopause and heavy periods, and to access cervical screening.
Sixty-eight per cent of women said they had accessed preventive health screening such as cervical and breast screening in the past year.
The results of Star Weekly’s survey mirror theoutcomesofastategovernment-runsurvey earlier this year, in which women and girls shared their experiences of feeling ignored or dismissed by clinicians who attributed their pain to psychological and personality factors, as well as culturally unsafe care. They also told the government about cases ofdelayeddiagnosis,andthehighcostofcare.
Women’s Health Matters Survey Results
Women’s health issues you have sought help for in the past months
Cervical screening
Menopause
PCOS
Mental health
Heavy periods
Infertility
Your top women’s health concerns
Access to healthcare
Affordable healthcare Healthcare providers’ lack of knowledge about women’s health issues
Cervical cancer
Breast cancer
Menopause
Incontinence
Blood pressure
Self-care
Periods
Endometriosis
Diabetes
Low iron
you engaged with preventative health screening in the past 12 months?
•76% travel outside of their suburb to access health care.
•The top reasons for travel were access to specialist services and because you liked the GP.
•The average wait time for a specialist appointment was one month. What you told us...
•Most people travel between 20 and 50 minutes to access health care.
you seen a GP for a women’s health issue in the past six months?
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
Carers’ movie night
Merri Health Carer Services – Carer
Gateway is hosting pizza and movie events on a fortnightly basis at Sunbury Youth Centre 51–53 Evans Street, Sunbury, for young carers who assist with the care of a loved one, such as a sibling or parent who has a disability, mental illness or is a person aged 12–18 years old. Upcoming dates are: October 14, October 28, November 11, November 25, and December 9.
http://www.merrihealth.org.au/
Open
Day
Hume Men’s Shed Sunbury is holding an open day on Wednesday, October 9 from 9am to 1 pm. The shed is located at 158 Evans Street, Sunbury. This event is part of the Seniors’ Month program held by Hume council. Morning tea and lunch will be provided. Come and see what the blokes are up to!
Albert, 0438 677 425
Summer fashion parade
Gisborne Uniting Church will host a Summer Fashion Parade by Kay’s Classic Fashion on Monday, October 21 at 1.30 pm at the church in Brantome Street, Gisborne. There will be great brands at low prices to suit ladies sizes 10–24, as well as a ‘specials’ rack. Entry is $10 and includes afternoon tea and prizes. This is a wonderful opportunity to purchase your summer wardrobe!
Maree, 0423 051 318
Boomerang Bags Sunbury
Catch up over a cuppa while creating a Boomerang Bag made out of donated and repurposed fabric. Roles available for all skill sets. BYO machine or machines available. Held first Saturday of the month at Sunbury Neighbourhood House, 531 Elizabeth Drive Sunbury.
www.sunburyhouse.com.au
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 or www.sunburyhouse.com.au
Durrol Open Garden
Enjoy a day exploring Durrol, a quintessential 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
Family History and Heritage Society
This week’s photographer’s choice was of a possum at the Junior Ranger School Holiday Program. (Damjan Janevski) 434391_01
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, 0412160576 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
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
Hume Men’s Shed
The Hume Men’s Shed (Sunbury) is a non for profit organisation, meeting every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings at 158 Evans Street, Sunbury. The group caters for men be it carpentry, welding, metal work, gardening or just to chat.
sunburymensshed.com or 0438 677 425
LGBTIQ Social Club
The Sunbury and Surrounds LGBTIQ Social Club has an ongoing catch up every third Saturday at the Brown Cow Cafe in Rosenthal at 1pm. They can also be found on Facebook where they have chats,
discussions and other events advertised. https://shorturl.at/jtAO1
Pernaperna Women’s Group
The group is currently knitting and crocheting blankets for First Nations peoples in palliative care across Australia. Pernaperna is a friendly group who meet fortnightly at Sunbury Neighbourhood House, 531 Elizabeth Drive, Sunbury, on a Thursday, from 1-3pm. It has established a bush tucker garden at Sunbury Neighbourhood House. New members warmly welcomed. If you don’t knit or garden but would just like to drop in for a chat, the group would love to meet you.
Joan, 0418 302 676
Neighbourhood garden
Become part of Sunbury’s Neighbourhood Garden and grow edible and useful plants in a social group at Sunbury Neighbourhood House, 531 Elizabeth Drive, Sunbury. All skill sets are welcome.
www.sunburyhouse.com.au or 9740 6978
Sunbury Woodworkers Club
Join the Sunbury Woodworkers Club to learn woodturning. No experience or tools required. The club is a welcoming environment open to men and women who wish to learn. Meetings for new guests are held on the third Wednesday of every month at 730pm. Circular drive, Jackson’s Hill, Sunbury. Facebook: Sunbury Woodworkers Club.
Anita, 0417 402 795
The Stones to rock Stony Creek
With a name like Stony Creek Music Festival, it was only a matter of time before the music of the Rolling Stones would be featured.
The tenth anniversary edition of the Yarraville festival will be dedicated to music of Mick and Keith and company when it takes place on October 19 at McNish Reserve.
Yarraville locals and festival stalwarts Rebecca Barnard and Shane O’Mara will be joined by some of the country’s best musicians in playing Rolling Stones hits, while other acts including the The Black Curtains, Rosaries, Bowlos,andDelsinkiandtheQuietCoachman are also part of the line up.
“Absolutely,” said festival co-coordinator
Janine Wiggins when asked if the day was a homage to the Stones, before adding that it was much more than that too.
“Overallthefestivalisverymuchacelebration of our community who otherwise wouldn’t come together under normal circumstances,” said Ms Wiggins who has been involved in running the event since its inception.
“This year it’s the Rolling Stones, last year it wasTomPetty.We’vehadthePaintersDockers perform,” she said, listing off a string of local artist’s who graced the festival stage.
But of all the artists involved through the years, Ms Wiggins said Barnard and O’Mara were by far the most important.
“Rebecca Barnaard has been the absolute driver behind this and Shane O’Mara. Without Rebecca and Shane the festival quite simply wouldn’t take place.”
Thefamilyfriendlyfestivalrunsfrom1pmto 6pm on Saturday October 19.
Entry is free and food is available, while picnics are also encouraged.
Cade Lucas
Stony Creek Music Festival musicians and organisers Michael Clarke, Mary Dowling, Rebecca Bernard, Janine Wiggins and Harry O’Mara. (Damjan Janevski) 434712_04
Exhibition echoes nature’s beauty
A new art exhibition in Melton explores balance, harmony, and rhythm in the natural world through mixed media artworks.
Echoes of Wild, by Caroline Springs local Ana Hanson, is open for viewing at the Melton Council Civic Centre from now until January 31 next year.
The use of pyrography, acrylics, and oils on wood panels create bold patterns and vibrant colours to embody a blend of modernity and tradition.
Ms Hanson said striking the balance was a “process of exploration.”
“I’ve been interested in incorporating unexpected uses of media; things you wouldn’t think of putting together like wood burning and aerosol,” she said. “I’ll go in with a rough plan but things will take an unexpected course… a lot of it is an adventure.
“In more recent years… I’ve been interested in finding ways to honour the tradition of landscape art but approach it in a way that is informed by the modern world.”
Most of the pieces were developed over 2024, but no matter how much time it took to make them, they always stuck with Ms Hanson
outside of the studio.
“A lot of heart and soul goes into the art –when I’m not making something it lives in my mind. It’s like a good book, you still think about it when you are not reading and an art project is exactly the same.”
Ms Hanson’s favourite piece is ‘Sunshine of the Valley’, which was inspired by nearby Organ Pipes National Park.
“It’s a relatively simple piece but I feel like it captures the vibrancy of modern style… I’ve always loved nature too.”
Eddie Russell
Join Western United for picnic on the pitch
Western United is welcoming one and all to Ironbark Fields this Saturday, October 12 for the inaugural Picnic At The Pitch family day.
The free event will kick off at 11am with the men’s squad playing in a intra-club friendly, after which the green and black community willhavethechancetomeetA-Leaguesplayers, watch on-stage performances and connect with the football community.
There will also be an exclusive membership offer available only to fans that attend the family day, so the club encourages everyone to visit the membership stand.
Kids can enjoy football inflatables, face painting, henna tattoos and the Wyndham Street Surfer Van, while bigger kids can hang out among market stalls, DJs and stage performances from the likes of Pataka Dance Group, Karen Community Dance Group,
Good News Luthern College, Club Iteka and Brazilian Drummers. Fans will be given one of the first opportunities to view the club’s inner sanctum with behind-the-scenes tours of Ironbark,
Shining light on LGBTI histories
Marking this month’s Victorian Seniors Festival, Goldfields Libraries and Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health are hosting a free screening of the documentary ‘LGBTI Seniors Untold Histories’ in Romsey. Directed by Noel Hourigan, the film presents stories and lived experiences of older LGBTI people living in Central Victoria and portrays how older people paved the way for changing attitudes and increased acceptance of LGBTI people today.
Mr Hourigan said that the idea for the film started from his desire to record elders’ voices and present the struggles of older LGBTI people in driving change for the next generations.
“At the end of the film, I do get the participants to have a message for the youth. So, it’s … semi-educational but also to let the youth know that a lot of it has come on the back of our elders and the elders are there to support them as well,” Mr Hourigan said.
Mr Hourigan said that the film screening also coincides with World Mental Health Day.
“There are themes throughout the film, things like how important it is to come out and accept yourself, and all of those sorts of things that ultimately are there for your mental health,” he said.
“When we did come out in those days in the … ‘70s, ‘80s – you were basically considered a sex offender … for the men … if you were gay, you were automatically classed as a paedophile. So, that sort of struggle with coming out and being out severely impacts your mental health.”
ThefilmwillbescreenedonThursday, October 10 from 2pm–4pm at Romsey Library.
Entry is free but registration is required.
venturing into the change rooms and tunnels the players walk through every day. Therewillbeplentyofopportunitytoengage with the communities that are the beating heart of football in the west, with a number of junior clubs and Walking Football 4 Health Victoria setting up stalls on the day.
You can also view and pre-order the 2024/25 kits and pick up your latest bits of Western United gear from the merchandise van as well as free giveaways and lots more all throughout the afternoon.
A photo booth and food trucks will ensure happy memories will be captured and bellies won’t leave empty.
Registration: https://www.intix.com.au/ event/western-united-family-day?lid=9gbtlcx 93c6s
Jaidyn Kennedy
Details: www.sunburycobaw.org.au/ lgbti-seniors-untold-histories
Players will be on hand to sign autographs. (Ljubica Vrankovic)_417037_10
Artist Ana Hanson. (Damjan Janevski) 435242_01
LGBTI Seniors Untold Histories interviewees Ada Milley and Prue Walduck. The film will be screened at the Romsey Library this month. (Supplied)
Optus plans to upgrade the telecommunications facilities at the below mentioned address with the addition of new 5G equipment: Memorial Cross Loop Road, Mount Macedon VIC 3441 (RFNSA 3441005)
The proposed 5G upgrade will consists of:
•Replacement of seven (7) existing panel antennas with four (4) new Optus panel antennas (each not more than 2.8m in length);
•Replacement of nine (9) existing remote radio units (RRUs) and RRU mounts with nine (9) new remote radio units (RRUs) on the new mount; •Installation, relocation and removal of ancillary equipment, including GPS antennas, mounts, feeders, cabling, combiners, and other associated equipment; and
• Internal works within existing equipment shelter Optus regards the proposed installation as a Low-impact Facility under the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 2018 (“The Determination”), the based on the description above. The proposed infrastructure will comply with ACMA EME regulatory arrangements.
In accordance with Section 7 of C564:2020 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment Code 2020, we invite you to provide feedback about the proposal. Further information and/or comments should be directed to: Vanessa Wan at Service Stream Limited, 0447 240 015, Optus.Submissions@servicestream.com.au or Zenith Tower B, Level 3, 821 Pacific Hwy, Chatswood NSW 2067 by 5pm, Wednesday 23 October 2024. If you would like to know more about the site, further information can be obtained from www.rfnsa.com.au/3441005.
SPORTS QUIZ
1. How many runs did Australian cricketer Travis Head score in the opening match of the ODI series against England?
2. How many non-Victorian teams play in the AFL?
3. In which year did Australia last win the Davis Cup?
4. How many votes did Patrick Cripps poll in his record-breaking Brownlow Medal win?
5. How many times has popular Supercars driver Craig Lowndes won the Bathurst 1000?
6. Which Victorian bowler took a remarkable 7/12 in a recent domestic One-Day Cup match against Tasmania?
The Wallabies lost by how many points in a close finish against the All Blacks in the first Bledisloe Cup Test?
The Australian Diamonds defeated which team 2-1 in a recent netball series?
Who is the only NRL player to have played over 400 career games?
In which year did current title-leaders McLaren last win the Formula 1 Constructors’ Championship?
By how many points did Brisbane defeat Sydney in the 2024 AFL Grand Final?
How old is 2024 AFL
Norm Smith medallist Will Ashcroft?
13. Which Formula 1 driver was recently replaced by Liam Lawson in the RB Formula One Team?
14. Andrew McQualter was recently named as coach of which AFL team?
15. The Sydney Roosters and which other team are taking part in the 2024 NRL Women’s Grand Final?
16. Which legendary Australian singer joined Katy Perry as part of this year’s AFL Grand Final pre-game entertainment?
17. Roosters prop Nelson Asofa-Solomona will miss the NRL Grand Final after a failed judiciary appeal saw his ban extended to how many matches?
18. WADA recently appealed the decision to clear which tennis star of doping?
19. Former NBA player Montrezl Harrell is currently playing as an import for which NBL team?
20. NBA star Karl-Anthony Towns was recently traded to which team?
21. Tara Davis-Woodhall and her partner Hunter went viral for their celebration after she won gold in what event at the Paris Olympics?
22. And which event did Hunter then win gold in at the 2024 Paralympics?
23. Dacron, Kevlar and Vectran are all materials used in modern versions of what sport-related weapon?
24. Travis Kelce will make his acting debut in an upcoming Ryan Murphy show titled what?
25. How many players are on each team in a futsal match?
26. What part of an AFL uniform shares its name with a breed of dairy cattle?
27. The GWS Giants mascot G-Man has what colour hair?
28. Which beverage company sponsors teams in soccer, ice hockey, Formula 1 and NASCAR?
29. Iconic soccer player Mia Hamm won how many FIFA World Cup championships in her career?
30. And in total how many World Cup tournaments did she compete in?
Tara Davis-Woodhall
To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine
ACROSS
1 Ordering off the menu (1,2,5)
5 Southern European country (6)
10 Happen (5)
11 Not inspected (9)
12 Computer network linking newsgroups (6)
13 Benchwarmer (7)
14 Accumulated (8)
15 Sharp cutting utensils (6)
18 Sick (6)
20 Mixture (8)
21 Trap, catch (7)
24 Creations (6)
27 Assailant (9)
28 US city (5)
29 Tips (6)
30 Hailing from Tyrol (8)
DOWN
1 On (4)
2 Inherited from one’s family (9)
3 Biblical character (5)
4 Members of a trust (8)
6 1970s band, – Lake and Palmer (7)
7 Bread-maker (5)
8 Spoke to (9)
9 Cicatrice (4)
14 Neighbour of Mexico (9)
16 Grant (9)
17 North Italian region (8)
19 Tidiest (7)
22 Change smoothly from one section to another (5)
23 Cardinal direction (4)
25 Ladies’ man (5)
26 Conceal (4)
only be used
No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural nouns ending in “s”.
1 Nuuk is the capital city of which country?
2 Which Dutch explorer was the first known European to reach New Zealand?
3 Shirley Temple’s trademark song OntheGoodShip Lollipop was from which film?
4 The rings of Saturn are primarily composed of what?
5 ‘As-salamu alaykum’ is a spoken greeting in what language?
6 Mount Macedon is located
7
8
9 Turpentine is created by distilling what?
10 What is tyrotoxism?
No. 207
No. 206
Practical, stylish and easy to drive
By Alistair Kennedy, Marque Motoring
Mitsubishi ASX is the smallest vehicle in the company’s four-model SUV range beneath the Eclipse Cross, Outlander and Pajero Sport.
ASX (the acronym stands for Active Sports Crossover, not Australian Stock Exchange) has been around since 2010 and competes against a host of rivals in the small SUV category including Hyundai Kona, Mazda CX-30, Kia Seltos, Subaru XV, Toyota C-HR and the class sales leading MG ZS.
Despite being largely unchanged throughout the decade, ASX has been a star performer for Mitsubishi thanks to a combination of sensible design, functionality and sharp pricing.
The ASX comes with the choice of six variants: GS, ES, MR, LS, GSR and Exceed. The first four are powered by a 2.0-litre petrol engine, while the GSR and Exceed step up to 2.4 litres. GS comes with the choice of manual or CVT automatic transmission, all others are auto only.
Buyers looking for a used ASX will get the option of diesel power and/or all-wheel drive but the current model only has petrol and front-wheel drive.
Prices range from $24,490 for a manual GS though to $35,240 for the Exceed.
Styling
Recent upgrades have given ASX a much bolder look especially with the latest version of the Mitsubishi Dynamic Shield front end. That and other tweaks have turned it into one of the best-looking vehicles in its class.
Wheels range from 16-inch steel with the GS to different styles of 18-inch alloys in the other variants.
LED headlights and daytime running lights are standard on all models with ES and above adding LED fog lights.
Our test vehicle was the ES model with a new Street accessory pack.
The pack adds a large black front spoiler, front and rear skid plates in black with red highlights, black tailgate protector, black exteriordoorhandlecovers,stainlesssteeldoor scuff plates and ‘Street’ decals.
Interior
The dashboard of the ASX reflects the vehicle’s age with a small 8-inch touchscreen at the centre rather than the larger sweeping screens that are now in fashion. However, as was the case with the ignition key, we don’t mind that at all. The screen is angled towards the driver and within easy reach.
Importantly, the aircon and audio controls are large knobs located below the screen that can be operated with minimal driver distraction.
Rear seat legroom is pretty good for all but more than six-foot passengers who will need the usual compromise with those in front. Five can be carried but it’s better if the three in the back are kids.
There’s good headroom in all seats, although that could be an issue with the panoramic sunroof in the top-of-the-range Exceed.
Models up to the LS have fabric seat trim. The GSR gets microsuede trim and synthetic leather bolster with Exceed having powered and heated leather seats.
The gear shifter in ES Street is trimmed in aluminium and leather.
Bootspaceis393litreswiththerearseatbacks in place.
Engines/transmissions
Going against the present trend towards turbocharging, both ASX engines are naturally aspirated.
The GS, ES, MR and LS get a 2.0-litre powerplant with outputs of 110 kW and 197 Nm at 4200 revs. The GSR and Exceed come with a 2.4-litre engine with power of 123 kW and torque of 222 Nm at 4100 rpm.
The GS manual has five speeds. All other models have continuously variable automatic transmission.
Safety
Standard safety features across the ASX range include seven airbags, enhanced ABS brakes, emergency stop signal, forward collision mitigation,activestabilityandtractioncontrol, hill start assist, rear view camera, and two Isofix child seat anchors.
The entry-level ES can be ordered with an ADAS package which adds lane departure warning; automatic dusk sensing headlights; blind spot warning; lane change assist; and rear cross traffic alert. These features are not available in the MR but are standard in the LS, GSR and Exceed.
Infotainment
All variants have an eight-inch touchscreen system in the top centre of the dashboard. It’s clear and easy to read with only minimal distraction needed to operate. There’s also voice activation.
Bluetooth pairing is fast and intuitive and there’s smartphone mirroring through wired Apple CarPlay or Android Auto along with DAB digital radio where available.
The Exceed gets a nine-speaker Rockford Fosgate premium sound system as well as integrated satellite navigation. Other models get four- or six-speaker generic audio.
There are twin USB-A ports at the base of the centre console in the GS and ES and two more, also USB-A, in the rear of the higher-spec models.
Driving
The ES Street that we tested had an ignition key rather than the almost universal push-button start in its competitors. That’s not necessarily a negative, especially with older buyers like ourselves,wholikethefactthatwealwaysknow where the key is located instead of rummaging around trying to find where you’d tossed the key fob.
For those who prefer push-button start, it’s standard from the LS models upwards.
The ASX is easy to drive and while not sporting it handles normal day-to-day driving competently. Ride comfort is good and the suppression of noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) works well.
The 2.0-litre engine does not reach anything like peak power of 110 kW until 6000 rpm, while torque is similarly tardy, at 197 Nm at 4200 revs.
The continuously variable transmission performance was adequate in city driving but came up wanting on overtaking. Sports mode had the ASX upping the ante with six-step operation.
It’s nicely responsive, which we like as it’s more pleasant to drive than many of the small displacement turbo-petrol engines that are in vogue nowadays.
Steering has a pleasant nice feel and gives the driver good response. Cornering is simple and the ASX generally follows the chosen line without you having to correct it midway through.
Road noise is generally well damped, but some stretches of Australia’s notorious coarse-chip surfaces set up a fair bit of noise in the cabin.
Fuel consumption with the 2.0-litre engine is listed at 7.6 litres per 100 kilometres. During our usual mix of urban and motorway conditions we averaged 9.1 L/100 km.
Summing up
The Mitsubishi ASX is a bit of an enigma because,despitebeingstillinitsfirstgeneration after 14 years, it remains one of the best-selling vehicles in the compact SUV segment.
Having said that, regular styling, technology andsafetyupdates–togetherwithkeenpricing – has allowed it to keep pace with its many, much younger rivals.
It’s practical, stylish and easy to drive and will appeal to both young families with preteen children and retirees alike.
Note that Mitsubishi is headlining its advertising with an industry-leading 10-year warranty. It certainly sounds attractive on the surface but less so when you drill down because not only is the 10-year deal dependent upon having all servicing done exclusively at Mitsubishi dealerships, but also the distance is limited at 200,000km.
If you choose to have your servicing done elsewhere then the coverage drops down to five years and 100,000 kilometres.
No doubt that will suit many buyers but deter others. Do your own sums.
Despite being largely unchanged throughout the decade, ASX has been a star performer for Mitsubishi.
The weather gods weren’t on the side of cricketers, baseballers and lawn bowlers as many seasons kicked off on Saturday. While many were cancelled midway and others rained out on the day, there was still plenty of action with StarWeeklyphotographer Ljubica Vrankovic getting some of the action.
Wet weather mars season start
East Sunbury players walk off. 435787_04
Romsey’s Taylor Stevenson and Chris Burkett. 435786_03
Eynesbury’s Jamie Bolger. 435787_02
Gisborne’s Riley Vernon. 435786_10
Bryce Fleming in Broadford’s McIntyre Cup debut. Ljubica Vrankovic_435783_06
Damien Edwards dives to make his ground. Ljubica Vrankovic_435783_22
Sunbury United’s Fabian Fernando and Damien Edwards. 435783_01
Rupertswood celebrates Matt Twentyman’s best on ground performance. 435782_21
Gisborne ahead of its round one clash. 435786_01
Sunbury Kangaroos’ Michael Fox. 435782_01
Coach Twentyman stars in Rupertswood return
It was a perfect return home for Rupertswood coach Matt Twentyman who opened the season with a century in the Gisborne and District Cricket Association McIntyre Cup.
Twentyman played a leading role in Rupo’s first up win against Sunbury Kangaroos on a rain affected day.
Rupertswood made 9-259 from 44 overs, before the Kangaroos finished 8-248 off 41 overs, with Rupo getting the win on Duckworth-Lewis Stern.
Twentymanwasthestaroftheshowmaking 112 off 98 balls.
“It was a great start to the year,” Twentyman said. “To be honest I was just looking to put in a good performance.
“I couldn’t have asked for anything more.”
Rupo was in trouble at 3-14 before Twentyman and Max Howell came together. The pair put on 168 for the fourth wicket partnership to turn the innings back in the favour of Rupo.
The tail kept wagging to push Rupo past 250.
Twentyman said from where they were it
was a good score, but he knew it was game on with their ground a small one.
Adam Fearnley took six wickets for the Kangaroos.
The rain meant players were on and off the field for much of the day. It made bowling hard.
“Theballwaslikeabarofsoap,”Twentyman said. “We were ahead half way through their innings.
“We didn’t bowl where we would have liked after that and they got back into the game. It tightened up but we were able to get over the line.”
Joe Honner took four wickets for Rupo, while Twentyman took three wickets.
Russell Phillips top scored with 75 for the Kangaroos.
It was a perfect start for Rupertswood after a big off season.
As well as getting Twentyman into the fold they’ve been able to add in some recruits, including premiership player Kevin Barker who approached the club to return home.
Twentyman said Barker brings plenty of
experience.
“He missed out with the bat, but the experience he brings especially helping me as a first time coach is invaluable,” he said.
“The young guys in the team, he gets around them and shares his experience with them.”
Rupo will have two English players set to join the side in the next few weeks.
Rohan Hosken is a 19-year-old all rounder and Cam Bruce is a 20–year-old batting all rounder.
“We’ve added a few guys from last year,” Twentymansaid.“Itmakesithardatselection, so that’s a good position to be in.
“The second XI had a good win as well and guys are putting their hands up to push into the side.”
Rupo faces Broadford in round two.
Broadford made a positive start to life in the McIntyre Cup, putting on more than 250 on the board against Sunbury United.
It will be the first time that Rupertswood has played Broadford, so it will be a new challenge.
Tara Murray
Bees start with busy win
By Tara Murray
It was the Fernando show as Sunbury United locked in a first up win against Broadford in the Gisborne and District Cricket Association McIntyre Cup.
Rain seemed to miss Langama Park for the most part on Saturday, with the result the only one not affected by rain.
Broadford in its McIntyre Cup debut made 8-260 from its overs.
The Bees made easy work of the total, making 2-261 off 36.2 overs.
Bees captain Damien Edwards said it was a bit of an unknown start to the season.
“I hadn’t seen any of them and to be honest didn’t know much about them,” he said. “They showed that they could definitely play and they got a hold of us with the bat.
“It was good to see us get a good win. I’m really proud of the boys chasing down a pretty lofty target.”
Broadford started its inning really well and was 2-116. The Bees bowlers were able to slow
them down in the middle of the innings.
Edwards said it was still a pretty good total to have to chase down.
Jack Dillon took four wickets for the Bees, while Fabian Fernando took three wickets.
The Bees started well before Edwards fell for 36 off 33 balls.
It bought Fabian Fernando and Upul Fernando together. The pair put on 197 for the second wicket to get the side within sight of victory.
It was finished off not that long afterwards.
Edwards said it was awesome to watch the pair go for it. Fabian finished 101 not out and Upul made 107.
“It was awesome, especially for Upul,” he said. “He hadn’t made a century in the GDCA, it was a nice match for him.
“Fabian is our new coach and it’s awesome for him to get out there and make runs.”
For the Bees, they’ve been able to keep their playing group together in the off season
Edwards said things were slightly different with Fabian replacing Upul as coach.
Magpies win, as rain hits
It was a wet start to the Gisborne and District Cricket Association Johnstone Shield season on Saturday.
Just one of the three games were completed after heavy rain played havoc in the afternoon.
Wallan was the big winner after it got the points against newcomers Eastern Hill in their one-day clash.
Eastern Hill Cricket Club joined the GDCA this season from the Seymour region. The club is the 29th club competing in the GDCA.
On field on Saturday, Eastern Hill made 6-188 from its overs in its GDCA debut.
Matthew Collard top scored with 71. The Magpies chased down the runs with three balls remaining, finishing 8-191. Ryan Cumberland top scored with 63.
Eynesbury had got off to a solid start against East Sunbury at John McMahon Reserve before the rain came.
The Eagles were 4-114 when play was stopped after 28 overs.
Tristan Francis top scored with 35 at the top of the order, with Brandon Shearson 32 not out when play was stopped.
LachieWilkinshadtwowicketsforthe Thunder.
Kilmore’s match with Aintree was also washed out.
“He has different values and leadership,” he said. “The old experienced heads are still part of the club and have been there and done it.
“It’s good learning from the older guys for us new leaders. It’s nice to have that change of voice.”
Edwards said being able to keep Upul at the club was a big positive. He will bat at number three this season.
“He’s a class performer,” he said. “Hopefully we’ll see some more opportunities to put in performances like yesterday [Saturday].”
Edwards said they were hoping to take that next step this season after being in the next the last few seasons.
“We’re aiming to be in the mix again,” he said. “It’s going to be tough. Broadford gave us a real test and there will be no easy matches.”
In other matches, Romsey beat Gisborne on Duckworth–Lewis–Stern method, as did Rupertswood against the Sunbury Kangaroos.
Woodend and Macedon’s game ended in a draw after just 5.5 overs were played.
After being 2-12, Aintree recovered and was 2-87 when play was stopped after 20 overs.
Charandeep Kalsi was unbeaten on 40. Joshua Buttler had both wickets for Kilmore.
Diggers Rest Bulla had the bye.
Another round of one-day matches are scheduled for this Saturday. The Burras will kick off their season against Eastern Hill.
East Sunbury come off for rain. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 435787_04
Matthew Twentyman celebrates one of his wickets. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 435782_16
Fabian Fernando on the way to a century. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 435783_08
Tremellen steps down as Sunbury Lions coach
Sunbury Lions coach Matt Tremellen will embark on a new journey after stepping down as women’s coach.
The Essendon District Football League women’s division 2 team of the year coach will depart the role after two seasons in charge.
Tremellen has joined the Calder Cannons coaching staff.
He said after doing a fair bit of coaching stuff with the Lions, pathway and juniors, he needed to step away from the Lions senior program.
“I’m stepping down from the role as I’m doing a coaching role with some more development stuff with the Cannons,” he said.
“It was good to have another year with the Lions this year and we achieved the goal that we wanted to achieve apart from winning the flag.
“We did a lot this year with these girls and it’s time to move on.
Tremellen walks away from the Lions senior program knowing that it’s in a good position for the future.
He said there’s now a pathway again for the junior girls at the Lions into the senior side.
“We’ve done a fair bit of work to return that pathway through the juniors to make sure they become senior players over the next few years,” Tremellen said.
“The women’s group is now in a good space…. There’s good retention, the numbers are up and hopefully I’ve opened them to some new things for them.”
Tremellen said it was bittersweet departing the program after the year that they’d had.
They finished runners up, while the side scooped all the main awards on the awards night.
Tremellen was named coach of the year.
“Getting a bit of recognition as great from the peer coaches in division 2,” he said. “You
have a lot of chats with other in the division throughout the year.
“Lots of feedback on coaching and we’re all working towards the same goals to get wins and female footy up and going.
“I’ve been happy to work with them and to get recognition is nice.”
Tremellen said he would still be involved with the Lions junior girls program and the EDFL’s interleague program.
The Lions thanked Tremellen for his work.
“The senior women’s team have been led by Matt Tremellen for the past two seasons and in that time Matt has been an important cog for the women’s program at both senior and junior levels.
“Matt also runs the Auskick program for the Juniors and we don’t know where he finds the time.”
Tara Murray
Roar players ready to go
By Tara Murray
Sunbury has bought back a few familiar faces as it aims to cement its spot in Victorian Turf Cricket Association division 2.
The Roar had a tough first season up in division 2 but did enough to secure its spot for this season.
There’s been a few changes on and off field at the Roar in the off season.
First XI team manager Marty Kelders said they were keen to get the season underway.
“We’ve been able to get a few guys back,” he said. “The guys are coming back not just to play but coming back and putting their hand up to be part of the committee as well.”
Ashan Renaweera will be captain-coach with Kevin Barker leaving the club.
One of the club’s greatest players, Jason McGann, has returned after a season away. Brad Hunter and Craig Ballinger, who have also coached the side, have returned to the club.
Kelders said they were looking to get a bit of stability back to the club.
“We’ve had a few coaches lately which wasn’t in the grand plan,” he said. “Ashan played for us last season and is an experienced campaignerandhasaninfluenceonthegroup.
“The coaching roles will be shared around through the group. It’s nice to get that experience back.”
Kelders said they still have a fairly young side and these guys will help support them.
Jack McGann, Jackson Treweek, Sandil Wijesooriya are three of the younger players that are set to play key roles.
Kelders said Wijesooriya was a player to watch having played several first XI games last season.
He said they wanted to continue to bring up the younger boys and give them an opportunity.
Kelders said they were hoping for a positive season this season in division 2.
“We know it’s a good standard,” he said. “To get the opportunity to get up there last year after finishing runners up was a good opportunity.
“The group will figure it out as we go along
Bowlers brave the weather
Action got underway in the Ballarat Highlands Bowls Region Highlands competition on Saturday.
In division 1, just two of the matches were completed due to rain fell heavily in the afternoon.
Gisborne started the season with a strong win against Diggers Rest, winning 75 (14)-46 (2).
Alan Higgins’ rink had a 25-14 shot win against Phil Robinson and Garry Candy’s rink had a 30-11 win against Rod Treweek.
Brad Janner’s rink was able to claim two points for Diggers Rest, winning 21-20.
Kilmore was the other winner on day one, beating Lancefield, 61 (16)-38 (0).
Matthew McMaster’s rink beat Jeff Holmes’ rink 19-13, Shane Fitzgerald’s rink beat Geoffrey Stewart’s 23-16, while Luke Spargo’s rink beat Lancefield, 19-9. The other two matches, between Broadford and Trentham, and Kyneton Golf and Romsey, both ended in draws due wet weather.
Kyneton had the bye.
Kyneton will start its season this Saturday in the local derby against Kyneton Golf.
Romsey will face Lancefield, TrenthamwillplayKilmoreandDiggers Rest will host Broadford.
In other action on Saturday, just one match ended in a result in division 2 with Gisborne 2 beating Woodend in a thriller.
and hopefully we’ll have quite a good year. We’ve got some talent there but we’ll have to see how we go and hopefully we have a bit of luck on our side.”
Elsewhere for the Roar, it will have a Sunday one-day day team for the first time.
Kelders said they wanted to give cricketers, who couldn’t commit or play on Saturday, the opportunity to play locally.
He said players from other club’s could also play on permits to be part of the side.
“It builds a bit of flexibility,” he said. “We’ve never had a Sunday day but it suits the needs of some of our members who want to play for us.
“It makes us a bit more user friendly.”
Kelders said they were still trying to get numbers for their under-18 side and any interested players could reach out. If that doesn’t happen, those guys will have the chance to play in the Sunday team.
After day one of the season was washed out, Sunbury will start its season against Newport-Digman on Saturday in a two-dayer.
The match went down to the wire, with Gisborne winning 62 (14)-61 (2).
Both teams won a rink by four shots, with David Wesney beating Mike Dornau in the remaining rink to claim the win.
It was a similar case in division 3, with the weather playing havoc.
Just one match was competed.
Kilmore 3 beat Gisborne 4, 74 (14)-36 (2) to claim the points.
Joy Fitzgerald’s rink was the big winner on the day, winning 31-8 against Frank Perich.
Shelley Fallowfield was the winning skip for Gisborne.
The Bowls Victoria metro weekend pennant competition doesn’t start until October 19.
Sunbury will be in division 1, section 1 again.
Ashan Ranaweera is Sunbury’s new captain-coach. (Ljubica Vrankovic)
Matt Tremellen. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 425635_01
Gisborne Giants starting to lock in the pieces
The pieces are starting to come together for the Gisborne Giants inaugural Riddell District Netball League A-grade team.
After having their first senior side this season in D-grade, the Giants are looking at having a full range of teams next year.
The club is set to have trials for all grades in the coming weeks, but have signed a number of key players already.
Coach AJ Craske said it was pretty exciting how it all came together.
“The first five players all know each other since they’ve started playing netball,” he said. “We wanted to take that to the Giants and have a bit of an off court connection as well.
“We’ve got a couple of other players in the wings. Early on, the A-grade squad it coming together nicely
“We’ve got trails coming up the next few weeks and we think it will all combine nicely.”
The Giants have locked in some players from all areas of the court.
Emma Winfield is the biggest name signing so far.
Winfield has been part of several under-age state netball teams and has been part of the Australian under-17 squad.
ShewasrecentlypromotedtotheMelbourne UniversityLightning’schampionshipteamfor the Victorian Netball League next season.
Olivia Craske is another that will play in the goaling circle. She has been involved at the Boroondara Express in the VNL
“Emma is our marquee signing at this point,” Craske said. “She brings a wealth of experience.
“Her and Olivia started playing together when they were 11. She’s excited for the opportunity.”
Jade Fisher will take on a leadership role in
the midcourt. She has previously played with Melton Centrals.
Craske said she would be like a playing coach and help guide the side.
Jacqui Mitrevski and Emma Vitalone will be keys for the defensive end
Mitrevski is a dynamic defender known for her impressive vertical game and defensive skills.
She has represented Parkville open and Elmer region, winning a state title in 2024.
Vitalone has been playing for Melton in the Ballarat Netball League, while also playing in the Western Netball League.
Craske said they would be two key players in how the team would be put together.
While the Giants have added a number of players, Craske said there had been a lot of interest locally as well.
“We want to build with some Giants
Rockies secure first win
By Tara Murray
A little bit of history was made on Saturday night as the Macedon Ranges Rockies women’s side finally got a win on the board in the Country Basketball League.
After not winning a game in their first two seasons, the Rockies needed just one game of this north-west season to get on the board.
The Rockies trailed by four points at half time, the Rockies stepped it up to come away with a 74-61 win against the Maryborough Blazers.
Rockies coach Stacey Stewart, who was coaching her first game, said there was so much excitement from everyone to finally tick off that first win.
“It was the best day ever,” she said. “There were lots of smiles on the faces of everyone.
“One of the girls said to me, that it’s made their week and the week has started.
“They’ve been talking about it for a while.”
Stewart said there was a lot of disbelief among the crowd that they’d finally got the winandshesaiditwasthebiggestcrowdshe’d seen fora women’s match in a long time.
In the game at half time, Stewart said they kept the message simple at half time. They wanted to be in front heading into the final quarter to give themselves an opportunity late in the game.
Not many would have predicted the Rockies win the third quarter 27-9 to take a four point lead into the final quarter.
Stewart said her side was really about and up and backing each other up which was telling in the final result.
Whileinfrontatthefinalbreak,theRockies knew the job was not done.
“We said we’ve got this,” Stewart said. “One of the girls said it was back to 0-0 and we have to keep focused and not get lazy.
“We got tired in the last quarter so we changed up the defence. Some of the young kids, the 15-year-olds, hit the floor and were able to contribute.”
The Rockies leaders led the way.
Cara Beattie top scored with 21 points, while Kiralee Collings scored 15 and Grace Cooper and Adrienne Cameron scored 13 points each.
Stewart said the win gave the group a lot of confidence for the rest of the season.
“IwastoldthatMaryboroughisagoodside,” she said. “A lot of people will be stunned with the result and realise that playing Macedon this year won’t be an easy match.”
The Rockies now have a big challenge this Saturday hosting the Kyneton Tigers.
TheTigershadatoughstarttotheseasonon Sunday, losing to the Bendigo Braves, 82-48.
The Tigers had just seven players, including three fill ins. Alexandra Strawhorn top scored with 15 points.
Stewart said they were excited to play the localrivalandthattheyhadacoupleofplayers
juniors,” he said. “There’s been a fair bit of interest from other clubs as well.”
The Giants first foray into senior netball was a successful one, with the D-grade side winning the RDNL premiership.
Craske said it was a massive positive for the side.
“That comes with a bit of extra publicity,” he said. “A lot of those girls will possibly have the opportunity to step up into the C-grade and B-grade ranks.
“It shows we are on the right track. We had junior representation in grand finals as well. It sets up what we want to achieve.”
Tara Murray
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Coates Talent League
Calder Cannons captain Damon Hollow claimed the Robert Hyde Medal. Hollow was named the Cannons best and fairest at the recent awards night. Hollow won the award from Sunbury Lions Patrick Said, while Hugh Allison finished in third. Noah Scott won most courageous, while Jack Ryan won the coaches award, Hollow and Said were both in action after the draft combines on the weekend along with Harry O’Farrell, Isaac Kako, Jayden Nguyen and Nash King. Kyla Forbes is the only Cannons girl in the draft combines.
GDCA
Riddell has announced another former player has returned for the Gisborne and District Cricket Association Jensen Shield season. The club announced that Matt Darby would play some games for the club this season. “Great to have him back with the club after a few years away, looking forward to seeing a few of your long bombs over the fence, Darbs,” the club said. It comes after Luke Castle committed to the club. The Bombers, who have been relegated after finishing bottom of Johnstone Shield last season, start their season on Saturday against Rupertswood in a one-dayer.
RDFL
Gisborne Giants have announced more signings ahead of its inaugural Riddell District Football League senior season. Blake Tirchett and Dylan Cunningham are crossing from the Sunbury Kangaroos, while under-19 premiership players Angus McSwiggan and Jack Clough are stepping up to seniors.
AFL
Former Sunbury Lion Zach Guthrie finished runners-up in Geelong’s best and fairest. Guthrie polled 120 votes, finishing 44 votes behind Max Holmes, who claimed his first Carji Greeves Medal. Guthrie has played every game since round eight in 2022, averaging a career high 18.24 disposals and six marks per game. He recently signed a new three year contract.
a
to come back into the side.
The Rockies men’s side started the season with
70-69 loss to the Blazers, while Kyneton’s men lost 87-55 to the Braves.
Grace Cooper. (Jacob Pattison) 363952_07
