Battle for Bullengarook
By Oscar Parry
With the region “escaping a bullet” when the December bushfire was contained, the Bullengarook CFA is urging residents to continue with bushfire preparation and to avoid the affected area.
While burning through about 355 acres of bushland in the Wombat State Forest and sections of private property, Bullengarook CFA captain Simon Hayward said the town is “very fortunate” that the fire was contained with no assets lost.
“With the way it started, [and] the way the wind was going, the crews obviously did an amazing job on that Friday night into Saturday to control it. We were quite worried for Boxing Day, because up until that point, the winds wereobviouslyblowingfromthesouth,sothey were pushing the fire up into the bush … away from property and people,” Mr Hayward said.
“The concern was that on Boxing Day when the winds are coming from the north … if it
weretoblowbackontoitselfandjump,itcould be a pretty horrible outcome.
“If it blew back and jumped [the] creek, there would have been properties lost without question.”
Mr Hayward said the fire was first reported to the CFA about 4.15pm on Friday, December 20, starting near the Bullengarook slate mine quarry in the Wombat State Forest, with the cause of the fire still unknown.
He said in a worst case scenario, the fire could have burnt through Bullengarook down to Toolern Vale and towards Sunbury, fuelled by grasslands – which can greatly accelerate a bushfire.
The hard work of over 100 volunteer firefighters from several brigades, Forest Fire Management firefighters and CFA water bomber pilots led to Forest Fire Management able to declare the fire under control and begin to wind back CFA support on Christmas Eve.
To contain the fire, Forest Fire Management crew members bulldozed an earth break
around the perimeter of the forest, allowing CFA fire trucks to access the site and put out spot fires as they ignited.
With the steep and treacherous terrain in parts of the forest, bulldozing a perimeter was no easy task, taking about three days and multiple attempts to achieve.
Many CFA volunteers, including from the Bullengarook brigade, worked through the night and sacrificed their Christmas Day to battle the fire or provide food and aid to crew members battling the blaze.
Bullengarook CFA 1st lieutenant Matthew Hunter said there was a strong sense of camaraderie with other brigades, including units from over 100 kilometres away.
“Yougetthefeelingthatit’s…‘myneighbour’s in trouble’ … it’s the same as if we got asked to go to The Grampians straight after this, we’re prepared to go. If they weren’t occupied down there, they would have had crews up here,” Mr Hunter said.
The CFA partnered with Macedon Ranges
council and Victoria Police to offer three free community information sessions at Sunbury and Macedon Ranges Specialist School’s Bullengarook Campus.
Mr Hunter said he has “never seen so many people turn out to a community event” as the first information session.
He said a large amount of food and supplies were dropped to the Bullengarook station’s door during and after the emergency from community members, businesses, and anonymous donors from across Melbourne.
In the wake of the bushfire, Mr Hayward urged residents to attend local CFA safety sessions, download and set up alerts within the VicEmergency app, and visit the CFA website to find information around bushfire preparednessandhowtocreateabushfireplan.
He also urged residents and visitors to avoid the affected area, as it is currently full of hazards due to the fire and the extinguishing efforts – including hanging branches, falling trees, and unstable ground.
Bullengarook CFA captain Simon Hayward, 1ST lieutenant Matthew Hunter, and volunteers Gerry Shepherd, James Hunter, Isaac Alderton, Aidan Hunter, Danny Giacotto, Jens Winkles, second lieutenant Remi Jacquemain, and volunteer Andrew Farmaid. (Oscar Parry).
Tourism numbers up in Ranges
By Oscar Parry
The Macedon Ranges is experiencing growth in tourist visitation and spending this summer, according to the region’s peak tourism industry body.
Daylesford Macedon Tourism acting chief executive Paul Matthews said overall, summer is “looking good so far” for tourism in the region.
“Latest data from Tourism Research Australia highlights continued growth in the day trip market, along with an increase in spend recorded in the September quarter,” Mr Matthews said.
“Feedback from industry suggests that visitation to the Macedon Ranges region was higher in the month of December, with some businesses reporting increases of up to 10 per cent in visitation compared to December 2023 levels. This is despite a downturn in late December due to the Bullengarook fire,” he said.
“It’s still early days, however, January has been steady so far – without breaking any records.”
Mr Matthews said that the body is aware of anumberofcancellationsreportedbytourism
and accommodation operators coinciding with extreme fire danger days and high temperatures in late December.
He said that this summer, the organisation has noticed an increase in visitors to the
Lancefield club robbed, again
Lancefield Football Netball Club’s storage facility was robbed for the second time in six months, further disadvantaging the club.
According to vice president Chris Dynon, one of the club’s storage containers at Lancefield Park was broken into overnight on December 16, with thousands of dollars worth of club merchandise and equipment stolen.
“It just means there’s … merch that we’ve got to go out and buy again that we’ve already paid for,” Mr Dynon said.
MrDynonsaidtheMacedonRanges-funded Draft Lancefield Park Master Plan proposes upgrading the park’s external storage
containers to internal facilities.
“All the sporting clubs in the park have probably tripled in size over the last 20 years, but we just haven’t had the facilities grow at that same rate.”
Club president Joe Schembri said there was about $6000 or $7000 worth of stock stolen, which will not be covered by insurance.
He said the club’s storage container was also broken into in August last year, with the thieves stealing canteen supplies and perpetual trophies.
Macedon Ranges council assets and operations acting director Simon Finlay said it was “disappointing and disheartening” to
hear of the theft.
“This park is ... not council-managed. However, the [club] is among the valued 80-pluslocalsportsclubsweworkcloselywith – council will reach out to the club to see how we can help,” Mr Finlay said.
He said work is progressing to finalise the Lancefield Park Draft Master Plan and it is expected to be tabled for consideration at a council meeting this financial year.
A Victoria Police spokesperson said the investigation into the incident remains ongoing.
Oscar Parry
region seeking outdoor experiences, with highvisitationtoHangingRockandMacedon Regional Park.
There has also been increased visitation to theregion’shospitalityvenues–atrendwhich Mr Matthews said is showing no signs of slowing in 2025.
Mr Matthews said the body has recorded positive results after launching its Come Back to Life campaign in 2024, which aims to promote the region’s tourism industry and increase visitation in the midst of cost of living pressures.
“We’ve observed impressive online engagement,withoveronemillionimpressions acrosssocialmediaandGoogleinthecampaign’s earlymonths.We’reactivelycollaboratingwith theindustrytodevelopspecialofferstiedtothe campaign, transforming interest into actual visits,” he said.
The campaign will continue to run throughout autumn and into early spring this year.
A month of summer fun
Macedon Ranges is hosting several school holiday activities for young people throughout this month, offeringaprogramfullofsummerfun.
For those ready to test their balance, a pool inflatable featuring obstacles, climbing hills, and slides will be at the Kyneton Toyota Sports and Aquatic Centre and the Gisborne Aquatic Centre from 1–3pm across various dates until Friday, January 24.
An Intensive Learn to Swim program will also run at both aquatic centres across several dates until Friday, January 24, which aims to improve children’s swimming skills and confidence.
For children aged 6–12, a dance program will be hosted between January 20–22 at Buffalo Stadium in Woodend, where children can learn hip-hop, acrobatics, and acting skills over three sessions with a qualified professional.
At the Gisborne Skatepark, a skate, BMX, and scooter competition will be held from 11am–4pm on Saturday, January 18, with no pre-registration required.
A sausage sizzle and DJ will visit the Woodend Outdoor Pool on January 21 and the Lancefield Memorial Swimming Pool on January 22, providing some summer-themed entertainment.
Details on dates and registration requirements can be found on the council’s website.
Details: mrsc.vic.gov.au/See-Do/ School-Holiday-Activities
Funding provides boost for vital food relief programs
Community organisations in Sunbury and a neighbourhood house in Macedon Ranges received a state grant aimed at boosting food relief programs.
The grants were announced at the Kyneton Community House – which received funding towards upgrading kitchen equipment, increasing volunteer recruitment and training, community education, and local partnerships.
Community House director Claire Rawlinson said the organisation is “really grateful” to receive the grant, especially
amidst an increase in community members seeking support.
“We’ve been really inundated with people needing ready meals for food relief, so we’re expanding our operations and hoping to create a model for delivery for people who can’t make it to us,” Ms Rawlinson said.
“We’re seeing more people coming through our doors than usual and we’re also seeing more people coming through our doors from a different social demographic … people are needing food relief all across the board,” she said.
“It definitely increased prior to Christmas, and we had some families struggling to make ends meet for Christmas. We provided some people [with] entire contents for Christmas lunch as well, which we would not normally have done.”
She said the organisation is currently looking for additional volunteers to assist with food preparation and distribution.
In Sunbury, Carworks SunRanges received a grant towards maintaining its food supply.
Careworks SunRanges service delivery manager Jane Williams said the organisation
serves a “very large” number of people and noticed an increase in people seeking support towards the end of last year.
“Itwasjustindicativeofwhathadhappened for the whole year … that’s what it will look like for the year to come I’d imagine,” Ms Williams said.
Sunbury Aboriginal Corporation received a grant for an upcoming program in collaboration with Goonawarra Neighbourhood House and Multicultural Resource Hub.
Lancefield Football Netball Club vice president Chris Dynon with the club’s external storage containers. (Ljubica Vrankovic). 452436_01
Daylesford Macedon Tourism has noticed an increase in visitors to the region seeking outdoor experiences this summer, with high visitation to Hanging Rock and Macedon Regional Park.
GENERAL
EDITORIAL
Creative holiday fun
The NGV Kids on Tour program made a stop into Sunbury this week, where children took part in some creative school holiday fun.
The activities hosted at the Sunbury library on Tuesday, January 7 included an animal headband making class, where participants designed cat or dog ear headbands inspired by their own pets, a dot pattern art and poetry session based on Japanese artist Yayi Kusama’s famous pumpkin sculpture, and a Bogong moth drawing activity with Wadawurrung artist Deanne Gilson.
This year was the tour’s largest to date, visitingmorethan150venuesacrossVictoria.
NGV senior project coordinator of community and access programs Stephanie Pohlman said that the program began in 2014
as a way of connecting more younger people with artists and creatives.
“With the program, it means that basically no matter where you are located in Victoria, you have the opportunity to experience art and creativity closer to home – and I think it’s important for all communities to experience that,” she said.
“It promotes the social and emotional benefits of artmaking and connecting with your community. It also helps the community … in Sunbury [to] fill their capacity in this area … [and] promote the amazing work that isgoingoninthecommunityhubsinSunbury … and across Victoria,” she said.
Many of the activities in the tour’s program link to current exhibitions presented at the NGV.
Oscar Parry
Can ewe believe it?
There has been a ‘baad’ spate of animal escapes in Hume this month, with the council’s city laws team collecting and impounding 35 sheep in Bulla.
The flock, consisting of 33 adult sheep and two lambs, was contained in a resident’s backyard in Bulla between Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.
With another six to eight sheep still at large, the council is still trying to locate the owners of the animals.
Star Weekly understands that the sheep wandered into Bulla residents’ backyards, consuming and damaging roses and vegetables.
A Hume spokesperson said that escaped stock damage environmentally sensitive areas, residential properties, and can cause serious traffic hazards.
“We implore livestock owners in Hume to make sure they have appropriate fencing to keep stock in, and adequate water and feed supply so that animals aren’t on the move to greener pastures,” the spokesperson said.
“If you’ve misplaced some fluffy friends or know someone who has, please contact council’s city laws team.”
The council also impounded 24 goats from Kongaderra Road in Clarkefield that had wandered onto private property on Monday, January 6, with the owner of this herd also yet to be identified.
Owners can reclaim their livestock by contacting Hume’s city laws team during business hours on 9205 2200.
Kiren Deep and daughter Eliza (3) at the NGV Kids on Tour program event at Gladstone Park Community Library. (Ljubica Vrankovic). 452404_01
Calls for intersection upgrade
By Oscar Parry
Macedon Ranges council is calling for state government action and collaboration towards safetyimprovementsatanotoriousintersection in Woodend.
At the December 18 council meeting, councillor Janet Pearce called for council to write to Roads and Road Safety Minister Melissa Horne about concerns for pedestrians, cyclists and vehicles at the intersection of Urquhart Street and High Street in Woodend. It also called for an urgent written response
onwhenarecommendationforimprovements to the intersection will be made available for community feedback.
Cr Pearce said that after Coles Woodend opened adjacent to the intersection in December2018,the“immediateissuesbecame apparent”fromcommunity,CFA,andVictoria Police reports to the council regarding traffic congestion, near-misses and safety issues for pedestrians and drivers.
“I wasn’t aware of any issues at the intersection prior to this,” Cr Pearce said.
Cr Pearce said at the time of applying for a
permit for its site, Coles had provided traffic data which was used to approved the design of the site.
She said the initial concerns were reported to what was Regional Roads at the time, now the Department of Transport, and she later raised a notice ofmotion toorganise a meeting with the director of Regional Roads.
Afterthismeeting,acorridorstudyextended to Ashbourne Road and up to Romsey Road was completed and sent to Regional Roads
“We have since been waiting for … a response [and] asking for some updates,” Cr
Kangaroos welcome court upgrades
Upgrade works have begun on Sunbury’s Eric Boadman Reserve outdoor netball courts, promising increased opportunities for local netball matches and training.
Starting early last month and set to finish in late-March, the existing asphalt court will be converted to an acrylic surface, and a second competition-standard asphalt court will be constructed.
Other facility upgrades as part of the $1.5 million Hume council-funded project will include new fencing, 200 lux LED lights, and seating.
Sunbury Kangaroos junior netball co-ordinator Jessica Geary said that the upgrades will address ongoing issues that affected the club.
Country races
Racegoers are among those targeted by a new campaignthatisencouragingpeopletoabstain from drink-driving at country races.
The Transport Accident Commission’s (TAC) “Ready” campaign, held in conjunction with Country Racing Victoria (CRV), will highlight the risks associated with driving to and from races under the influence of alcohol.
The new content features “everyday heroes” who make race days happen, including a horse handler, an operations manager and a designated driver.
‘We will not have to worry about going to training and finding the courts underwater as the draining system wasn’t the best … or having to come extra early on a Sunday to ensure the courts were safe enough to play on,’ Ms Geary said.
“The lighting … will make it a lot safer for players, coaches and parents. The extra seating and shelter is something that we have lacked not only for the players, but for spectators as well. It will bring a whole new atmosphere on game day,” she said.
Ms Geary said the second court will be so beneficial as player numbers grow, allowing for increased training and competition opportunities.
Club member Ava said that the second
court “will really help bring that club energy” because teams will get to train together more, promoting “new connections with team mates and players.”
Sunbury Kangaroos Football Netball Club president Marc Bullows said that the key benefit of the upgrades is recruitment, as the club has previously struggled to recruit players due to its facilities.
“It’s been a long road ... we’ve always struggled with time slots, trying to combine the juniors and seniors, but having two courts is ideal,” Mr Bullows said.
Oscar Parry
Pearce said.
“Department of Transport is responsible for High Street, but we need to collaborate, because we are responsible for the roads … around that area,” she said.
A Department of Transport and Planning spokesperson said the department is working with council on options for a safety upgrade at the intersection.
Star Weekly understands that the final plans will be released to the public later this year.
A spokesperson for Coles declined to comment.
Swimming safety classes
The state government has announced the return of an affordable swimming lesson program that will run throughout this month, with classes offered at several swimming centres across Melbourne.
With an opening at the Werribee Outdoor Pool on Monday, January 6, the VICSWIM Learn to Swim program will provide five 30-minute lessons to participating children aged four to 12, with a choice between three weeks this month.
The lessons will be offered at 170 swimming centres throughout Victoria, including locations in the west such as Keilor East Leisure Centre, Maribyrnong Aquatic Centre, Melton Waves Leisure Centre, Sunshine Leisure Centre, Werribee Outdoor Pool, Whittlesea Swim Centre, and Thomastown Recreation and Aquatic Centre.
The cost for five lessons will be $35 per child plus booking fees, and if eligible, families can use Get Active Kids vouchers to reduce the lesson cost to zero.
In this year’s program, there are 400 extra spots for children with disability and from multicultural backgrounds, with the same skills provided by specialised teachers.
Lessons for kids with disability will be offered through dedicated programs and children from culturally and linguistically diverse families can attend lessons in Broadmeadows, Craigieburn, Sunshine, Werribee, Dandenong and more.
Premier Jacinta Allan said that the program is designed to provide cost-of-living support to families, so that children of “all backgrounds can learn how to stay safe at the beach or around the pool.”
Aquatics and Recreation Victoria chief executive Kathy Parton said that the association was proud to offer the program for its 49th year.
Details: vicswim.com.au
a target in new TAC drink-driving campaign
The campaign will feature on social media and in race book advertisements in the run-up to country race events across Victoria– such as the Kyneton Cup– to highlight the various transport options available to racegoers, such as taxis, rideshares and shuttle buses.
The TAC will be present at more than 20 Country Cups, where punters will have the opportunity to enter a prize draw to win $500 fuel vouchers and be educated on the dangers of drink-driving.
Country Racing Victoria Chairman Chas
Armytage spoke about the importance of collaboration on the matter and the need for racegoers to consider making plans ahead of drinking at the races.
“It is vital for all racegoers to plan ahead not only for the event itself but also for their transportation needs. CRV and country clubs remaincommittedtoworkingwiththeTACto promote this important educational message.”
Acting Transport Accident Commission chief executive Sam Cockfield said the TAC was working to ensure there are enough safe
transport options for racegoers. This year’s campaign follows what the state government labelled “a tragic year” on Victoria’s roads in 2024, with 282 lives lost, over half of which occurred in regional areas. The campaign will be supported with funding from the state government’s Road Safety Action Plan 2, which is part of broader road safety funding allocated until 2028.
Sunbury Kangaroos junior netball club member Ava, 13, and co-ordinator Jessica Geary at the construction site. (Ljubica Vrankovic). 452387_02
We’re building the Metro Tunnel and there will be disruptions
As part of Victoria’s Big Build, we’re building the Metro Tunnel. Work is underway with the fit out of five new underground stations at Anzac, Town Hall, State Library, Parkville and Arden. We’re now testing trains through the tunnel and fitting out the station interiors, making sure they operate smoothly, safely and they’re accessible to all. We’re also easing congestion by building better roads in Melbourne’s south east.
While we work, disruptions could affect your travel
Train disruptions:
Cranbourne and Pakenham lines 25 to 26 Jan
Road disruptions: Closed roads and ramps
McGregor Road, Pakenham 14 Jan to mid Mar
Bald Hill Road, Pakenham 8pm to 5am, 20 Jan to late Feb
Passengers change at Caulfield Station for Frankston Line trains to and from the city
Citybound entry ramp to Princes Freeway
Between Webster Way and Racecourse Road
Anzac Station
Behind the vibrant and resilient spirits of African communities, a hidden epidemic of trauma has taken its toll. Today a courageous young voice is seeking to confront the past and create a brighter future, as Afraa Kori reports.
The hidden depths of trauma
If you ask Kerma Axume* about violence and trauma he would tell you it hits close to home.
Raised in the western suburbs, he has been deeply impacted by the trauma of premature death, having lost loved ones to knife crime, suicide and gun and gang violence.
“Theemotionalimpactsincludethedisunity it creates in the family and community. We are always worried when our children go out even for sports or other activities which are supposed to be safe,” Kerma said.
“Parents, guardians, brothers and sisters are always worried about the situations which may be happening at these events and activities which our children attend. We have been trying to get some counselling, we have been trying to channel our energy into efforts that will hopefully save another child in the similar situation.”
Kerman says external factors, including racismandnegativemediacoverage,contribute to violence in African communities. Lack of job opportunities and discrimination in the workplace push some individuals into illegal activities like drug dealing and substance abuse, perpetuating a harmful cycle.
A lack of identity and belonging leads some to glorify gangs and turn to drugs.
The cycle of revenge can be devastating.
“Just the loss of life and the impact on the family, losing someone so young and with their whole life ahead of them. The whole grief of the family, community and their friends, some who may be wanting to do revenge and cause more harm,” Kerma said.
“The community is impacted in many ways, especially those areas where people are not seen or heard, such as in workplaces, and social settings, where we are not often seen as victims of the violence, but rather the people allowing it to happen. We are being disrespected in the media, we are being disrespected in the political arena.
“There is also an increase in racism towards the South Sudanese people because of the standpoint of the media on how they report these incidents and stories about the African youths, using alarming language and tactics, it creates ’us vs them’ sentiment in the Australian community, even impacting the way other Africans see us.”
Mental health experts say there is a lack of African mental health and support services which make some African people feel uncomfortable accessing the resources. There is also a stigma surrounding mental health and counselling in African communities.
Mental health advocate, youth worker and alcohol and other drugs (AOD) support worker Rose Deng is calling for more funding for mental health and AOD services tailored to Sudanese/South Sudanese communities that are youth-focused and family inclusive.
“It is important to understand the holistic needs of the Sudanese/South Sudanese
youth, families and community at large, and services should be deeply rooted in cultural competency, community engagement and the ability to address specific needs within subgroups such as children, youth, women, men and people with a disability,“ Ms Deng said.
“I believe this is a collective response and process that may take some time based on the different cultural traditions and bridging gaps that exist, but with effort from both youth and parents/elders there is hope in dialoguetopromotehealing,especiallyforthe generations to come. I would suggest, having a professional mediator present, creating safe and non-judgmental spaces or environments where youth and parents/elders can engage in open discussions around mental health/ AOD to promote education, learning, healing and mutual understanding between the two generations.
“Also, I think it would benefit a balance with youth having their own dialogue to share common experiences, along with parent/elders, to promote a sense of belonging and connection, and collectively coming together to tackle the barriers of conflicting perspectives whilst validating everyone’s experience, and recognising that both generations have encountered unaddressed trauma, so working together in solidarity is essential.”
Founder and chief executive of Nas Recovery Centre Nyachan Nyak said his team offersinnovativeandculturallyawaresupport
to Australian youth, adults and families for which there is a growing need in the west.
“NAS Recovery Centre provides support to young people dealing with various forms of trauma including grief and loss from losing a loved one or friends to knife crime, suicide, and other mental health challenges. We currently operate in Melbourne’s south east without catchment restrictions and are also expanding our services to Melbourne’s west. Our focus is to ensure no one is left without the support they need”.
Kerma believes change is not solely the responsibility of government or health services and communities must play their part.
“We are very reactive, not proactive, and we tend to stop everything that could help prevent future crises when we lose a young person, hence we are in a cycle of violence and suffering without addressing them because we’re too busy consoling ourselves and not doing the necessary work needed,” he said.
“Weneedtoactuallybeunited.Notjusttalk about it, we need to also put it on ourselves, not on the government or the white people to solve our communal issues. The family structure needs to be strengthened like when we first came here. We are a very family oriented society.
“We need to have a place run professionally by people with cultural competence to chair conversations with the parents and families who have lost young people, like healing community groups for grieving mothers,
families, friends and community. With psychologists, youth workers, therapists and community competency awareness and empathy. And bring people who have overcome these challenges to share their experiences and strategies, also counselling servicesforhealingandgrievingfamilies,free of charge.”
Melton resident, artist and mental health advocate Nanchok Santino Chol has also witnessed the tragic rise in knife crime and horrific acts of violence among young people, many of whom she had the privilege of crossing paths with or growing up alongside in the same neighbourhood.
“The dangers of normalisation when it comes to premature death and violence in the community is it can be a trigger topic for people and that we need to be mindful that there are stages to grief and that particular conversations need time and space,” she said.
Despite the challenges, Nanchok finds hope in reflecting on what the community has overcome and the openness of the younger generation to listen, understand the struggles their parents have faced, and make better choicesforthemselvesandfuturegenerations.
“I believe that how we can support and amplify the resilience and strength of community members who have experienced trauma is showing up in whatever capacity that looks like being a listening ear, allowing them to feel their emotions and more than anything making them feel seen and heard.”
* Not his real name
Young Africans are experiencing trauma in relation to premature deaths and violent deaths. (Damjan Janevski.) 449575_02
Nanchok Santino Chol (Damjan Janevski).342306_01
Rose Deng.
Embrace your inner animal in our nature play zones. Swing through rope courses, scamper along discovery trails and slink through tunnels. It’s exciting what a zoo can do.
Plan your visit zoo.org.au *Terms and conditions apply
MY PLACE
Sunbury resident and secretary of the Friends of Emu Bottom Wetlands Reserve community group Garry Bartlett is passionate about the region and its natural environment. Oscar Parry spoke with Garry about his connection to Sunbury, the local flora and fauna, and his volunteering work.
What is your connection to Sunbury?
Wehadourheartsetonaresidenceclosetothe heart of Sunbury in the late ‘90s. We carefully researched it, and when the auction came, the first opposing bid exceeded our top price, so we returned to ‘square one’ but remained drawn to Sunbury. We saw some land with kangaroos grazing peacefully among the gum trees. My partner’s comment: “let’s buy it GB,” led to the purchase and building of a home. One of life’s U-turns.
What do you like about where you live? Sunbury is rich in history. Its Aboriginal history has attracted national focus revealing fascinating aspects of Indigenous lifestyle and customspre(andofpost)Europeansettlement. The farming and other endeavours of George Evans are at the very birth of Victorian and Melbourne history – it started right here in what has become Sunbury. The activities of Rupert Clark and his estate Rupertswood brought international attention. The only privatearmyintheBritishempire;thebirthof the Ashes, and so much more. It’s such a pity that our museum has closed as well as other visitor-centric sites reducing community access to that rich (sometimes dramatic) local history. I love the preservation of the natural environment in and around Sunbury – The Nook; Emu Bottom Wetlands; Spavin Lake; and so many reserves, walks, and parks.
What, if anything, would you change about where you live?
I would like to press a ‘pause button’ on rapid development until some very obvious infrastructure shortfalls were solved – the Bulla Bypass; reconstruction of the Calder Highway without punctuated speed limits, bottlenecks, and frustration; Sunbury public transport keeping pace with development, andliftsforeaseofaccesstobothofSunbury’s rail platforms.
What are you most proud of in regards to what the Friends of Emu Bottom Wetlands Reserve has achieved?
TheFriendsofEmuBottomWetlandsReserve was formed in 1993 following rationalisation of the historic Emu Bottom Run. Residents saw a 32-hectare site, deemed to be flood-prone, which was pastorally degraded
GRUFFALO PLUSH & BOOKS
in the extreme. The potential of this reserve was recognised by the residents who resolved to restore the former bushland. The Friends volunteers set about their task removing blackberries, gorse, boxthorn, barbed wire, and, supported by government grants and Bulla and Hume council, planted and maintained some 170,000 Indigenous native trees, plants and grasses. This magnitude of effective volunteer work would not be possible today in the light of the sometimes extreme risk-aversion policies at various levels of government. The work continues in the land adjacent to the reserve with the support of the Salesian Order and Villawood Properties
What is something you wish more Sunbury residents knew about Emu Bottom Wetlands and Jacksons Creek?
Jacksons Creek and Deep Creek join to form the Maribyrnong – one of Victoria’s major waterways. The creek is home to flora and fauna under threat from overuse of reserve facilities. The reserves along the creek are valuable environmental and human resources. We need to be respectful of the fauna and general environment as we enjoy our time in these reserves. With rapid population growth, access to new natural open spaces becomes important. Maybe the long-awaited Jackson’s creek biik wurrdha Regional Parkland will finally be established or better access to the Holden Flora Reserve will be ingredients of the solution in the future.
Sunbury resident Garry Bartlett at his home. (Damjan Janevski). 445975_02
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 safety in a class setting. Try Pilates and discover how it can help improve your health and well-being.
Explore Pilate’s classes at Macedon Ranges Health by visiting mrh.org.au or call (03) 5428 0300
Club backs cancer event
Woodend Cricket Club is hosting a ladies day and high tea to raise funds for breast cancer support.
Titled Pink Stumps Ladies Day, the event will raise money for the McGrath Foundation, which supportspeoplewithbreastcancer by providing specialist breast care nurses across Australia.
With a pink dress code, the club’s event will include a high
tea, guest speakers, raffle tickets, a live auction, live music, and an opportunity for donations.
Woodend Cricket Club events committee member
Tegan Eastley said the McGrath Foundation plays a “critical role” in supporting people with or who have previously had breast cancer.
“For me, it is important to raise funds to ensure that everyone
receives the support theyrequire [while] also educatingthose in the community about breast cancer and how we can help those around us,” Ms Eastley said.
“Fundraising for the McGrath Foundation is very rewarding. It’s such a great way to connect with thecommunityandsupportagood cause. Plus, you get to meet new people and share some fun
experiences,” she said.
“[It is] a great excuse to get the girls together and raise money for a fantastic cause!”
The event will run from 2–7pm on Saturday, February 15 at the Gilbert Gordon Oval Club Rooms in Woodend.
Tickets cost $40 and can be purchased online.
Details: trybooking.com/CYERJ
Free event for dog owners
With young platypus preparing to leave their burrows for the first time late this summer, Melbourne Water is hosting a free event in Sunbury promoting dog owners to take care around local waterways.
Paws for Platypus will be held on Saturday,January18from8.30–11.30am at Emu Bottom Wetlands and will provide dog obedience demonstrations, guided platypus walks and free coffee.
Melbourne Water waterwatch coordinator Madeline Taylor said “There are many designated off-leash areas around Melbourne, but in other locations, it’s important to keep dogs on a leash and out of waterways to prevent them from harming platypus and destroying their burrows.”
“Platypus rely on steep, stable banks to build their burrows for shelter and breeding, but dogs erode and destabilise these banks when they enter waterways.
According to Melbourne Water, the Friends of Emu Bottom Wetland Reserve community group has spent more than 30 years revegetating the land around the wetlands, but the increasing presence of off-leash dogs in the area is presenting a serious threat to the platypus and other wildlife. The authority recommends that dog owners keep dogs on-leash when around waterways, clean up after their dogs to prevent water contamination and remember that stormwater drains lead to local creeks before entering the bay. Details: events.humanitix.com/pawsfor-platypus
Woodend Cricket Club members Ben Thompson, Lachlan Sheehan, Dash Schober, and Marcus Stewart showing support for the fundraiser. (Supplied)
Summer of tennis hits Hume
Hume Tennis and Community Centre took centre stage last week as the Victorian Wheelchair Open took place for a fifth successive year. One of two big tournaments this month at the Craigieburn facility, Star Weekly photographer LJUBICA VRANKOVIC was out among the action.
Australian Yassin Hill. 452446_46
Australia’s Ben Weekes. 452446_01
America’s David Wagner. 452446_06
South Africa’s Mariska Venter. 452446_32
China’s Xiaohui Li. 452446_19
Junior coach Greg Crump. 452446_29
Australian Sonny Rennison. 452446_27
Isla Gillespie and Sally Schwartz. 452446_58
A good crowd was in attendance. 452446_54
The umpire looks over the action. 452446_10
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
WANT YOUR EVENT LISTED? Community Calendar is made available free of charge to not-for-profit organisations to keep the public informed of special events and activities. Send item details to Star Weekly Community Calendar, Corner Thomsons Road and Keilor Park Drive, Keilor Park, 3042, or email to westeditorial@starweekly.com.au by 9am Wednesday the week prior to publication
Sunbury Family History & Heritage Society
The Sunbury Family History & Heritage Society Inc will resume their meetings for 2025 on Thursday, January 16 at 1.30pm in room 5 at the Sunbury Global Learning Centre, Macedon Street. The society will continue to meet at that venue on the third Thursday of the month at 1.30pm throughout 2025 until the final meeting for the year on November 20. Everyone welcome.
https://bit.ly/3jvM6oJ
Scottish country dancing
The Macedon Ranges Scottish Country Dancing Group meets every Thursday afternoon 1-3pm at Buffalo Stadium, Woodend. The dancing involves social country dancing, and no special clothes needed, just soft flat shoes.
Meg 0409 166 783, or Linda 0408 476 317
Community. Connect. Create. If you are needing support or looking for a social group to join, you can visit Community. Connect. Create, which is an online resource listing support and community groups in the Macedon Ranges. if you would like your group listed or would like to work to help this project grow please email: fiona@ communityconnectcreate.com.au
Communityconnectcreate.com.au
Amateur radio club
The Macedon Ranges Amateur Radio Club meets on the third Saturday of the month at the Woodend RSL Hall, 32 Anslow Street, Woodend, at 10am. If you are interested in amateur radio or already have a call sign, this could be for you.
http://www.mrarc.org.au
Take off weight naturally Struggling to lose weight? Struggling to get motivated? Want to try and do it in a friendly and less stressful atmosphere? Come and join TOWN (Take Off Weight Naturally) every Thursday at 9am at the Sunbury Neighbourhood House, 531 Elizabeth Drive, Sunbury.
Rhonda, 0409 740 924
Kyneton Badminton Club
Kyneton Badminton Club is a welcoming, fun and social group that plays on Mondays, at 7pm at the Kyneton Toyota Sports and Aquatic Centre, Victoria Street. All skill levels are welcome.
kynetonbc@gmail.com
Sunbury Macedon Ranges Masonic Lodge
Meets monthly on the second Wednesday of the month at 7pm, 73 Main Street, Romsey. New members welcome.
Paul, 0479 127 476, or Rob, 0428 260 647
Rotary club
The Sunbury Rotary Club meets every Tuesday at the Ball Court Hotel, 60 Macedon Street, Sunbury, from 7pm.
sunburyrotary@gmail.com
Ladies Probus
The Woodlands Ladies Probus Club of Sunbury meets on the fourth Monday of each month at the Sunbury Bowling Club at 9.45am.
Leonie, 0401 764 182
Sunbury Ladies Probus Club
The Sunbury Ladies Probus Club meets at 9.30am on the fourth Wednesday of each month at the Sunbury Football Social Club rooms.
Pat, 0433 789 754, or Sylvia, 0417 170
142
Sunbury Combined Probus Club
The Sunbury Combined Probus Club meets every fourth Thursday of the month at the Sunbury Bowling Club at 10am.
Jo, 0410 834 272
Probus Club Of Sunbury
Join the Probus Club of Sunbury on the first Wednesday of the month at the Sunbury Bowling club at 9.30am. It’s a friendly men’s group open to visitors and new members, with a number of great events held each month.
Greg, 0417 593 035
Camera Club
The Macedon Ranges Photographic Society is your local camera club for friendship, photographic outings, workshops, guest presenters, competitions and more. Meetings on the first Tuesday of the month, followed by the next Monday. Doors open at 7pm, meeting starts at 7.30pm at Dromkeen, 1012 Kilmore Road, Riddells Creek.
https://bit.ly/41j5BEw
Breast cancer support group
On the first and third Tuesday of the month breast cancer survivors are invited to head along to the Gisborne Golf Club at 10.30am to take part in a breast cancer support group.
Lesley, 0484 691 226
Village connect
Enjoy free coffee and cake while connecting with fellow Macedon Ranges residents 55 years old and older. Happening on
Tuesdays and Thursday at cafes across the municipality.
https://bit.ly/3AMUrxm, or 5422 0262
Arts and games night
Get creative at the Sunbury Youth Centre each Wednesday, from 3.30-5.30pm. The free program is for people aged 12 to 18 years old, at 51-53 Evans Street, Sunbury.
HarmoniX Vocal Company
All-male singing group happening on Thursday, 7-9.30pm, in Sunbury, with a mixed choir, DynamiX Vocal Company, rehearsing Tuesday, 7-9.30pm. Rehearse at Dulap Wilim Hub, Leichardt Street, Sunbury. No auditions required.
harmonixvcinc@gmail.com
Jacksons Creek Combined Probus
The club meets on the second Monday of each month at the Sunbury Bowling Club at 10am. This friendly group of men and women enjoy outings and meetings each month and twice yearly trips away staying in cabins and caravans. Visitors and new members are warmly welcomed
Doug, 5428 3317, or Teresa, 0417 373 006
Craft and conversation
Head down to the Sunbury Library on Mondays at noon for the craft and conversation group. The program is free and open to people aged 15 years and older.
https://bit.ly/39BIu2O
Chill Out Sunbury
Chill Out Sunbury is a free event for 12 and
18 years old to participate in activities such as trivia, games, and more. Happening every Wednesday, 3.30-5.30pm, at the Sunbury Youth Centre, 51-53 Evans Street.
https://bit.ly/3lmVgVhv
Sunbury Ladies Badminton Club
Come along and be part of Sunbury Ladies Badminton Club and enjoy the benefits of physical activity. Social games are on Mondays, 9.30am- noon, and team competitions are on Thursdays, 9.30am-12.30pm, at Eric Boardman Stadium, Wilsons Lane.
sunburylbc@gmail.com
Come have a chat
Delve into deeper topics and enjoy intriguing conversations by joining the Table 8 Discussion Group. Chats every Tuesday, from 10.30-11.30am, at Macedon Lounge, 40 Victoria Street, Macedon.
Carol, 0431 186 575
CWA Woodend Eves
The CWA Woodend Eves Branch is part of the Central Highlands group and meets every third Tuesday at 7pm at the Woodend Golf Club. All women are welcome. cwawoodendeves@gmail.com
Sunbury Badminton Club
The Sunbury Badminton Club plays social games on Tuesdays and Wednesdays nights, from 7.30-9.30 pm, and on Wednesdays, 10am-noon. Monday night is a round robin competition from 7.30-9.30pm. All welcome to attend at Clarke Oval Stadium, 49 Riddell Road. sunburybc@gmail.com
This week’s photographer’s choice is Australian Heath Davidson in action at Hume Tennis and Community Centre. (Ljubica Vrankovic)
Free Australia Day entertainment in Tarneit
Wyndham’s free Australia Day program is back and it is Tarneit’s turn to celebrate.
On Sunday, January 26, Penrose Place will light up for four hours of fun, with live music and activities for kids set to keep everyone entertained between 10am and 2pm.
Headline acts will herald from near in far, as The Mik Maks will rock, The Soul Movers will send you back to the 60s (if you can’t
rememberthem),NBDancewillbringbravado of Bollywood, One Spirit Africa will arrive in just in time with their beats and Woody’s World will show that anywhere is a good place for Ukulele.
On the lawn, free craft activities, face painting, hula hooping fun with Circus Lab, DreamytheDreamBear,theincredibleBubble Brothers, fantastical aeronauts, stilt walkers and the brass band Ballahornication might
help with the age-old challenge of getting kids to go outside.
Revellerscanfeastatthefoodtrucksorbring along their own lunches and make a day of it with a picnic.
Some of the area’s most altruistic members will be recognised during the presentation of the2025WyndhamCitizenandYoungCitizen of the Year Awards.
“It’sawonderfulopportunitytoacknowledge
Sublime Sunbury sounds
Influenced by blues and rock legends, Sunbury musician Gareth Huggett and band The Remedyhaveahigh-energyandexcitingsound which they’re bringing to several venues in the coming weeks.
The gigs will present tracks from Huggett’s new album titled Modern Life, released on Bandcamp on January 4.
Huggett said that the album was inspired by the experience and atmosphere of a gig he performed in England last year supporting one of his favourite bands.
“Iwantedtomakeanalbumthatencapsulated the energy that was in the room that night,” he said. “It was raw, it was bluesy, it was a bit cheeky… I just wanted to have a proper rock and roll album basically.
“I had a word with my mate Mark Roberts, who’s the drummer, and asked him if he wouldn’t mind playing drums on my new album… as I got back home to Australia, I picked up my guitar, started writing, and sent him some demos – he loved the stuff and we took it from there.
Oneofthesongsonthealbum,titledPocket Full of Nothing, features Huggett’s father.
A mix of more laid-back acoustic solo performances and a heavier blues sound with the band, Huggett is performing his music and covers on January 18 at Mr Boogie Man Bar, January 19 at Welcome to Brunswick, January 26 at The Industrial, Sunbury and January 31 at Wilbury and Sons, Moorabbin. Details: facebook.com/garethhuggettmusic
Oscar Parry`
Hairspray, is set to be a sensory treat
Don your best up-do, dust off your dancing shoes and head on over to the Bowery Theatre next week to experience a cult-classic musical like never before.
Audiences have the opportunity to devour the popular 1988 film Hairspray in a whole new interactive and sensory way –with a scented screening planned for January 24. Presented by Brimbank council in collaboration with Snivure and Scented Storytelling, the evening is expected to leave your noses and eyes satisfied.
“The screenings are set to be a treat for the senses, with the sound and vision of these movie classics elevated by the release of scents across the theatre,” mayor Thuy Dang said.
Midsumma Festival’s Go West program, supported by council.
“These events are a great way for the LGBTQIA+ community to connect in a safe and supported environment, and they are part of the council’s LGBTQIA+ Action Plan 2024-2028,” Cr Dang said.
Under the same initiative, the Bowery Theatre will also screen the New Zealand and Tongan LGBTQIA+ film, Inky Pinky Ponky on February 7.
The Hairspray screening will start at 6 pm Friday, January 24, at the Bowery Theatre and St Albans Community Centre.
and appreciate their contribution in front of theirfamily,friendsandthewidercommunity,” Cr Mia Shaw said.
Tarneit’s first Australia Day rodeo, the event will follow on a tradition that has seen the fun travel through Werribee, Point Cook, Hoppers Crossing, Manor Lakes and Werribee South.
Jaidyn Kennedy
Hobsons Bay’s Billy brothers
Hobson’s Bay brothers, Sebastian, 12, and Luka Serro, 10, are set to take audiences by storm in the regional Victorian premiere of the musical Billy Elliot, taking on a role they describe as “a dream come true.”
Sharing the role of Billy, the brothers will bring their impressive vocal, tap, ballet and acting skills to the stage to tell the story of a young boy’s struggle against the odds as he swaps his boxing gloves for ballet shoes.
“There’s no role like Billy,” said older brother Sebastian, who also played Billy in Cheltenham Light Opera Company’s (CLOC) production of Billy Elliot.
“Iwasonlysevenwhenthelasttouring production came to Australia and too young to audition – I cried in my room for a week when I found out, so playing the role twice now has been the best thing ever,” he said.
Luka played the role of Small Boy in the CLOC production and said he was envious of his older brother.
“I watched Seb rehearse and perform the role for months and part of me wished I could be up there on stage with him, performing the songs Electricity and Angry Dance too, which are my favourite numbers,” he said.
“Performing the role of Billy now though is just so special – I don’t even have the words!”
Audiences will be able to see them at the Geelong Arts Centre for 13 performances from January 17 to February 2.
Details: https://geelongartscentre.org. au/
“[It’s] a ‘smell-o-vision’ experience that will make you feel like you were really there.”
The upcoming screening is part of the
This screening is free but registrations are required.
Details: tickets.midsumma.org.au/ event/396:448/396:1133/
Sunbury musician Gareth Huggett will perform songs from his recently released album at several venues across Melbourne this month. (Ljubica Vrankovic). 452370_01
Keen local movie goers are looking forward to attending the Hairspray screening. (Supplied)
Altona brothers Sebastian and Luka Sero will share the role of Billy Elliot in a production in Geelong from January 17 to February 2.
DIAMOND antenatal care offered
By Tara Murray
Finding the right place to give birth and be comfortable is something that is near the top of an expecting mother’s lists.
Thehospitalneedstobeclose,havetheright staff and cater for the varying different needs. For many expectant mothers, having larger bodies complicates things with some smaller hospitals not equipped properly to handle possible medical issues.
At Joan Kirner Women’s and Children’s Hospital at Sunshine Hospital, Western Health has set up a DIAMOND Clinic, which is an antenatal clinic dedicated to women living in larger bodies with a higher body mass index.
It’s believed to be one of the most comprehensive services of its kind in Australia.
Established by women’s and children’s clinical services director Associate Professor Glyn Teale in 2016, the clinic brings together a team of experts who specialise in the complications common to this group of patients.
The clinic is a virtual one-stop-shop of specialists, including midwives, obstetricians, nutritionists, psychologists, social workers, fetal monitoring specialists, physiotherapists and endocrinologists.
Diamond stands for diabetes, maternal obesity, nutrition and diet and is held every
Thursday morning.
Access to the clinic is through referral only, with the criteria for admission is a body mass index of more than 50, or more than 45 when women have other comorbidities such as gestationalortype2diabetes,hypertensionor previous complicated pregnancies.
WomenwithahigherBMIareathigherrisk of a range of complications during pregnancy including diabetes, blood pressure problems, blood clots, preeclampsia, miscarriage and pre-term birth. In 2023, the DIAMOND Clinic cared for
more than 200 pregnant women.
Associate midwife unit Manager Kylie Charles, who has been involved in the clinic since its inception, co-ordinates all appointments and is the main liaison between patients and clinicians.
“I love working in this clinic,” she said.
“I have a strong commitment to midwifery practice and I am passionate about ensuring women and their families receive the highest quality best care possible during what is an exciting, but vulnerable time.
“Beingpartofthismultidisciplinaryteamis
so rewarding. It’s a smaller clinic enabling us to provide continual care, as we get to know the women well.
“We have a really dedicated team. I’m so proud that we can provide non-judgmental care that is specific to each woman.”
Obstetrician Dr Nisha Khot is another staff member who has worked at the clinic since the start.
“Theclinicbringsthebestresearchavailable to the day-to-day care of women living in larger bodies. In this clinic, we aim to provide individualised care, free of stigmatisation.”
L-R: DIAMOND Clinic staff Nisha Khot, Sofia Walker, Clara Chan, Kylie Charles and Annabel Jones, Debbie Gordon. (Supplied)
PUZZLES
To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.
1 Fish appendage (3)
3 Persistent (10) 10 Differing (7) 11 Of rocks, derived from magma or lava (7) 12 Harmful (9) 13 Squish (4)
Formal university attire (10) 17 Vaulted recess (4)
19 Old stringed instrument (4) 20 Chemical processes in the body (10) 23 Continent (4)
Conceptual (9) 27 Biased (7) 28 Everlasting (7) 29 Ordinariness (10) 30 School subject (abbr) (3)
Huff (4)
An illusion (6)
Thin noodle (10)
Mitigation (9)
Artworks (9) 21 Common Irish surname (1’5)
Gambling house (6)
24 Piece cut off (5)
25 Flooring tradesman (5)
26 Unsolicited email (4)
1 What is the atomic number of hydrogen? 2 Bob Marley’s Redemption Song originally appeared on which of his albums? 3 Name Allison Janney’s (pictured) character in the 2011 film TheHelp 4 In which Australian state would you find Ozenkadnook?
5 What is the official language of Suriname?
6 A person with cathisophobia has a fear of what?
7 What are the statues of Easter Island known as?
8 How many keys does a piano usually have: a) 92, b) 68 or c) 88?
9 In the TV series Entourage, what is Johnny Chase’s nickname?
10 The three-toed sloth is mainly found on which continent?
MOTOR
Civic service into the future
With a heritage of more than half a century, there is lots that can be said about the Honda Civic.
No navel gazing here, though.
Far from dreamy reminiscences about its-once popular product, the maker says the company is looking strictly to the future with the updated model as a bridge to total electrification of its vehicles.
Theentry-levelpetrolenginehasbeengiven the shove, with the new Civic e:HEV L hybrid filling the position, while the e:HEV LX variant is still available. Performance buyers have not been left behind, with the Civic Type R turbo, sans hybrid assistance, still ‘on the grid’.
The e:HEV system combines a naturally-aspirated 2.0-litre petrol engine mated with two electric motors, one that drives the front wheels and the second acting as a generator to charge the high-voltage battery.
Advanced in-car technology updates –including Honda Sensing and next generation Honda Connect with Google built-in – have been added across the range. Prices start at $49,900,pluson-roadcosts,fortheentry-level e:HEV L and top out at $55,900 for the e:HEV LX. As with all Hondas, these prices are non-negotiable.
Every Civic comes standard with a five-year unlimited kilometre warranty, five-year Premium Roadside Assist, five $199 services and three-year Honda Connect subscription.
STYLING
Back in the day the Civic – as a two-door fast-back sedan and later as a three-door hatchback – was to become one of the all-time best-selling automobiles in the world, with more than 28 million units sold since 1972. While the MY25 version looks like a sedan in profile, the Civic is a lift-back with a low-profilerooflinethatmakesitlooklesslike an upright hatch. Enhanced sportiness is the theme here, with a redesigned front bumper and body-coloured headlamp garnishes combining to present a more powerful front. New 18-inch alloy wheels suggest advanced athleticism.
INTERIOR
Space inside is abundant. Headroom up front is good and heated seats and dual-zone climate control are joined by a heated steering wheel. Storage is not so good, with a pair of cupholders and a small wireless charge tray. A lidded console offers more storage, and front doors have bottle holders.
Thelegroomoutbackisgenerous,andseats include a fold-down armrest, a pair of USB-C ports and air vents.
Boot space of 409 litres with rear seat backs up rear seatbacks up is accessed by a manual liftback which can be awkward to operate. A space under the floor is enough to hide small items, while missing are a full-size or space-saver spare.
The Civic hybrid comes with a tyre repair kit.
INFOTAINMENT
The 9.0-inch infotainment screen now adds Google built-in services. allowing access to Google Assistant, navigation via Google Maps, link to compatible smart home devices and add apps from the Google Play store.
Honda Connect services also provide a link between smartphone and the car, remotely adjusting the climate control air-con, lock or unlock the car, check the vehicle location, and receive car status checks.
A three-year subscription is included.
Wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto, AM/FM/DAB radio, or Bluetooth are on tap, while a 12-speaker Bose audio system punches above its weight with sound reproduction across all genres.
ENGINES/TRANSMISSIONS
Powering the Civic e:HEV pair is a 2-litre direct injection petrol engine plus a two-motor hybrid system putting out 135kW
RATINGS
Looks: 8/10
Performance: 8/10
Safety: 6/10
Thirst: 5/10
Practicality: 7/10
Comfort: 6/10
Tech: 7/10
Value: 6/10
of power and 315Nm of torque, engineered for ‘engaging levels’ of performance, response and feedback.
SAFETY
The Civic comes with new and advanced activeandpassivesafetytechnology,including Honda Sensing, driver assistance made possible by better front camera software, while Honda’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering body structure is designed to better protect occupants and pedestrians in an accident.
New-generation Honda Connect features a new user-friendly Connected App interface, improved response time and other new features.
All models come with 11 airbags (with rear-seat side and centre airbags previously not part of the hybrid equipment list).
DRIVING
Get in, press the start/stop button and leave theresttotheCivic.Thepowertrainprioritises electric running, with the ICE chipping in from cold starts, or when battery charge is running low.
TheE-CVTautomaticisveryun-CVT,with smooth running like an EV at low speeds, using the petrol engine to drive the wheels at higher speeds.
The regenerative braking that feeds power back to the battery when coasting can be adjusted via steering wheel paddles.
The Civic e:HEV features more than one selectabledrivemodelettingthedriverchoose
throttleresponseandfuelefficiencyaccording to preference or driving conditions.
On offer are Normal or Econ, which reduce throttle and transmission sensitivity as well as air-conditioning to help optimise fuel use and Sport which enhances throttle response, steering feel and engine sound.
Finally, Individual mode enables the driver to select preferred settings including engine responsiveness, steering feel and gauges.
While all this was going on the test Civic recorded average fuel consumption of 4,6 litres per 100 kilometres during a week
of family-style motoring. Honda claims a combined urban/highway cycle figure of 4.2 litres per 100 kilometres. Recommended fuel is regular 91-octane unleaded petrol.
SUMMARY
According to Honda the new Civic is the harbinger of sustainable-energy driving, with the sporty Prelude the next cab off the petrol/ electric rank being launched next year before coming Down Under in 2026. Something to look forward to.
Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring
According to Honda the new Civic is the harbinger of sustainable-energy driving. (Pictures: Supplied)
Sport is back after festive break
It was full steam ahead as the summer sports returned to action after the Christmas and New Year’s break. Star Weekly photographer LJUBICA VRANKOVIC was out capturing some of the action.
Footscray United’s James Deasy. 452929_03
Footscray’s Mitchell Jamieson. 452928_02
Sunbury United’s Upul Fernando. 452933_01
It was a tough day in the field for East Sunbury. 452935_11
Hoppers Crossing’s Abbas Faiyaz. 452930_01
Harkness’ Gurinder Singh Grewal. 452932_05
Footscray’s Dylan Brasher. 452928_05
Melton’s Dylan Jobson. 452930_08
The Druids’ Subhan Ramzan. 452929_01
Harkness’s Baljinder Singh. 452932_01
Diggers Rest Bulla’s Darren Quarrell. 452935_01
Woodend’s Warren Else. 452933_02
GDCA women to make representative history
The Gisborne and District Cricket Association’s women will take centre stage with the association’s first women’s representative sides.
The association will play two women’s representative matches against the Ballarat Cricket Association on January 15 and February 19.
Some of the best players in the competition are among those who have put their hands up to be part of the teams.
GDCA president Simon Ovenden said it was a pretty exciting opportunity for the competition and the women involved.
“Itisfantasticandit’sabrilliantinitiativeby the Central Highlands [region],” he said. “The growth in the senior women’s competition has been fantastic and this is the natural progression.
“We’re really looking forward to it and super proud of the first representatives of the association in women’s cricket.
“We think they will do an excellent job.” Ovenden said the GDCA was focused on making sure they had a proper representation
of the local community in the competition, and women’s cricket was a big part of that.
Women’s representative cricket is rare in Victoria,makingtheassociationoneofthefew associations to have women’s representative cricket.
Ovenden said there was a lot of interest fromtheplayerstobeinvolvedinthematches. Some players will play in both matches, while some will play in one.
“There were several clubs and coaches contacting me multiple times wanting to know what was going on,” he said.
“Itisreallyexcitingandit’sagreatinitiative.
Kim Bessell from Darley has won two MVPs [most valuable player awards] and Sarah Bamford from Bacchus Marsh have been two of the stars of the competition.
“They get the chance to show their skill set at another level. Nikola Cox is one of the leading wicket takers in the Jensen Shield seconds competition and she now has the opportunity to play with other women in the senior representative side.”
Formanyoftheteam,itwillbethefirsttime
theygettheopportunitytoplayonturfcricket and the games will be played under lights.
With the association having junior girls representative cricket for a number of years, this provides a continued pathway.
“This is one of the drivers,” Ovenden said. “We want to give junior girls pathways at a community level.
“You don’t have to go downtown to play senior cricket against women.”
The players selected to represent the associationareGisborne’sBriannaWoodburn, RubyWattsandNinnaHarbinson,Lancefield’s LuzannePaeglitis,NatandBrookeJeffrey,and Anita
McMaster, Malmbury’s Nikola Cox, Darley’s Kim Bessell and Brittany Ward, Bacchus Marsh’s Sarah Bamford and Ashley Gillard, Macedon’s Emily Wilkinson, Kilmore’s Taylah Logie and Wallan’s Megan Farrell, Kia Montgomery and Terrie Haydon.
The first game is being held at East Oval Ballarat from 6.15pm on January 15.
Eyre is a player to watch
By Tara Murray
At just 16, new Macedon goaler Chloe Eyre has achieved more in her netball career than many others do in a lifetime.
Having started playing netball when she was seven, Eyre has played across a number of teams and competitions since then.
Her 2024 included making her Riddell District Netball League A-grade debut and she was part of the first Victorian First Nations team which participated at the national championships.
Eyre’s performances caught the eye of selectors and she was named in the First Nations national team, the Black Swans for 2025.
“It was pretty unexpected, especially being under-23s,”shesaid.“Iseeitassuchaprivilege and I’m so grateful.
“I didn’t think it would happen at this age.”
Eyre said making the inaugural Victorian First Nations team was exciting in itself.
She said it was the first time she had been involved with the cultural side of her
Indigenous background.
She is a Wamba Wamba woman, and she said her mum’s nan being full blood Indigenous.
“It was really exciting and I learned about it and things like smoking ceremonies,” Eyre said. “I was excited to be around it and do something like that. To be part of the first Victorian Indigenous team was amazing.”
Eyre said the First Nations team had been meeting on Zoom weekly and would have a tournament in February, the 2025 PacificAus Sports Netball Series.
She said she was excited for the opportunity.
The selection caps off a big 12 months for Eyre.
The Sunbury resident was part of the 50-player Victorian under-17 state squad for the national championships.
She also made her A-grade debut for Melton Centrals which was another challenge. She had been playing junior netball for Lancefield previously.
“It was really fun,” she said. “I learned a lot playing against women and got a bit stronger.
Locals named in state teams
Several netballers from Melbourne’s north-west have been named in the Victorian squads for the under-17 and under-19 National Championships in Sydney.
The teams of 12 have been named after a selection process since August, where squads of 50 were narrowed down to 25.
The squads have been involved in Netball Victoria’s elevate program, introducing them to aspects of high performance environments such as strength and conditioning, nutrition, athlete wellbeing and skill development.
Initially, athletes were talent identified at Netball Victoria’s pathway competitions, association championships and state titles, as well as through Netball Victoria’s talent academies across the state.
City West Falcons Holly Adams-Alock has been named in the under-19 team for a second straight year.
Sahara Ball, who was part of Riddell’s A-grade grand final team in the Riddell District Netball League, is also part of the team.
Western Warriors’ Kiara Boyd and Haleina Tanoi have both been named in the under-17 team along with Sunbury Lions premiership player and City West Falcon Amalani Fauonuku.
City West Falcons coach Jacinta Todd will coach the under-17 team.
“I wasn’t expecting to make the A-grade team. I was expecting to play B-grade or something.”
Eyre was also part of the City West Falcons development program.
This year will be a year of change for the goaler, who models her game on Australian Diamond Kiera Austin.
She will play with Macedon in the RDNL competition.
“They offered me an A-grade spot after seeingmeplaywithMeltonCentrals,”shesaid.
“I have a family friend playing at the club as well.”
Eyre has also earned her first Victorian Netball League contract, signing with the Boroondara Express’ under-23 side.
She said she was shocked to earn a spot in that team at only 16.
“I almost cried,” she said. “I’m looking forward to learning off them all, there’s a lot of older goalers.”
As for where she wants to take her netball?
“I want to take it as far as I can on court,” Eyre said.
“For some of these athletes, this is their first state team selection, which is a fantastic achievement,” she said.
“They’ve all worked incredibly hard and are deserving of their spot, and we look forward to working more closely with them in the lead up to nationals and in their development in the pathway.”
Adrian Ballantyne will coach the under-19s.
“We were so impressed with the talent pool across the selection process, which has again demonstrated the strength of Victoria’s netball pathway,” he said.
“Selecting the final 12 was extremely challenging, but we’re confident we’ve landed on a squad that will give us a very strong chance for success at nationals.”
The teams will compete at Netball Australia’s National Netball Championships which will be played at Netball Central in Sydney in April and as well as Netball Victoria’s Gippsland Showcase in Traralgon on the weekend of February 8.
Chloe Eyre. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 420262_26
Tara Murray Kim Bessell (left) is one of the stars of the GDCA women’s side. (Supplied)
Undermanned Thunder claims important win
An understrength East Sunbury cemented its spot in the Gisborne and District Cricket Association Johnstone Shield top four on Saturday.
In the first match after the Christmas break, the Thunder faced Diggers Rest Bulla in an important match.
Both sides are fighting for finals spots, with the Burras winning the last match up between the two teams.
On Saturday, the Thunder made 9-192 from its overs after being sent in.
Alec Nichols top scored with 61 for the Thunder, while Darren Quarrell took four wickets for the Burras.
In reply, the Burras were in trouble early at 3-13 before they steadied. At 4-103 it was
game on.
The Thunder bowlers were able to continue to take wickets and bowled the Burras out for 164 in the 37th over.
Hammad Rashid took three wickets, while Nathan Dent, Nathan Hynes and Lachie Wilkins took two wickets each.
Quarrel was the pick of the Burras bats with 51.
Thunder president Mark Wilkins said they owed the Burras one after losing last time.
“Our guys made us proud,” he said. “We had a young captain [Evan Wilkins] as we had five players out.
“Some who have promised a lot were able to deliver. Alec Nicholls has always got starts but he really showed it yesterday [Saturday].
“All players played their part and we put a great plan together.”
The win comes after a tough month before the Christmas break including losing vice-captain Blake Watson.
Wilkins said the result was a big one in the context of the season and gives them a gap on the Burras that sit in fifth spot.
The Thunder is now nearly 11 points ahead of the Burras.
The Thunder face Kilmore this Saturday in another one-dayer.
In other results, Wallan won a low scoring affair with Kilmore.
The Magpies were bowled out for 107 in the 21stoverwithNathanFowlertopscoringwith 26.
Woodend bounces back
By Tara Murray
Woodend had a confidence boosting win against Sunbury United in the Gisborne and District Cricket Association McIntyre Cup on Saturday.
Having lost twice to Gisborne before the Christmas break, Woodend was keen to start 2025 on a winning note.
Woodend was pushed hard by the Bees but were able to come away with the win.
Woodend coach Josh Eastley said it was a really important result for the group.
“After two losses to Gisborne before the break it was a key for us to start well,” he said. “It was good to bounce back with a solid team effort with no one standing out.
“That has been one of our strengths this season with seven or eight that can bat.”
Woodend batted first and made 9-222 from its overs.
Eastley said they thought anything above
200 would give them a shot at the win. It proved to be just enough.
“They were bowled out with an over to go,” he said. “They were about 15 runs short.
“Fabian Fernando got away from us a little bit and put on 80 or 90, we managed to get his wicket when they were still 20-30 runs short.”
Eastley said once they had the wicket of Fernando they thought they would be able to complete the job with two new batters at the crease.
Woodend sits in third spot as the season starts to hot up with finals on the line.
Eastley said they had taken a lot out of the Gisborne games as they face their toughest part of the season.
“We have a tough period before and after Christmas against the best sides, which we know we want to be around them,”he said.
“We’ll keep working and keep building.
“Romsey this week will be another test for us. They are a quality side and we know it will
Kilmore never got going in its run chase and was bowled out for 80.
Skipper Scott O’Donnell took three wickets for the Magpies.
The Magpies remain at the top of the ladder, more than five points clear of Eastern Hill. Eastern Hill kept the pressure on Wallan with a win against Eynesbury.
Eastern Hill made 116 as it was bowled out in the 38th over with Gurpreet Singh taking five wickets for the Eagles.
The bowlers then got the job done for Eastern Hill, bowling the Eagles out for 84. Aintree had the bye.
be a hood game of cricket.
“We have to be at our best to beat them.”
Eastleysaidoneareatheywillfocusoninthe back part of the season, was making sure they hadthebelievethattheycouldgetthejobdone.
He said Saturday’s result against the Bees was the start of that.
“Weneedtostartbelievingwecanwinfrom any position,” he said. “We have to stay in the game and we ready to pull through.
“We showed that yesterday [on Saturday]. We kept going and got Fabian wicket and got control of the game from there.”
In other results, Gisborne and Romsey both had big wins.
The Dragons made 9-219 before restricting Broadford to 184. Romsey made easy work of Rupertswood, finishing 2-121 in reply to Rupertswood’s 120.
Macedon got its second win of the season, accounting for the Sunbury Kangaroos to move into sixth spot.
RDFL
Kyneton has signed Danny Grmusa for the Riddell District Football League season. Grmusa joins the club from Werribee Districts in the Western Football League and has played in two senior grand finals. He also spent three years at the Western Jets and won several junior club best and fairests.
RDNL
Macedon has announced young star goaler Chloe Eyre was one of its new signings for the Riddell District Netball League season. Eyre, who crosses from Melton Centrals, was recently announced in the First Nations Black Swans squad. The Cats have also announced the new signings for Rebecca Ingleton, Molly McGrath and the return of Janelle Tate, who missed last year.
RDFL
Woodend-Hesket has announced the signing of Sam O’Loughlin for the Riddell District Football League season. O’Loughlin has played the majority of his senior career at Strathmore, where he played more than 100 senior games, highlighted by captaining the 2022 premiership.He has played country football the past few seasons.
RDFL
Lancefield as added Tom Filipovic to its list for this year’s Riddell District Football League season. Filipovic is a 23-year-old close checking midfielder who progressed through the Essendon Doutta Stars juniors to represent them at senior level in the Essendon District Football League premier division. He has spent the past two seasons at Tullamarine.
Tennis
Sunbury’’s Jin Woodman had one of the biggest wins of his career at the Victorian Wheelchair Open last week. Playing on his home courts at the Hume Tennis and Community Centre in Craigieburn, Woodman made it through to the quarter finals of the quad event. In the second round he beat number three ranked Andy Lapthorne. Woodman will be in action again this week at the Melbourne Wheelchair Open, before competing in his first Australian Open the following week.
Tara Murray
Lachie Wilkins. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 452935_20
Roar cement a strong position after day one
Sunbury kicked off 2025 in a strong fashion against the Greenvale Kangaroos in an important GIsborne and District Cricket Association Steve McNamara Shield match.
After an up and down first part of the season, the Roar has started to find its feet as it aims to finish the season strongly.
First up after the break, they face the Kangaroos which sit in seventh spot, only percentage behind the Roar.
Afterdayoneofthematch,it’stheRoarthat sits clearly on top.
The Roar’s Marty Kelders said it was a good way to start the new year.
“We’ve settled down the team now and the younger guys are coming to the fore as we’re more settled,” he said. “Everyone is gelling together and we are a lot better off the field. We are improving every game.”
The Kangaroos won the toss and decided to
bat at Clarke Oval.
It was tough going and they were bowled out for just 102.
The Roar shared the wickets with Indika Massalage, Jason McGann and Jackson Treweek taking three wickets each.
Treweek has come into the side with an injury to Kyle Corcoran.
“He was the top ranked player in Play HQ before Christmas with eight wickets,” Kelders said of Treweek.
“He’s had the chance to come up and he playedreallywellandmadeahugedifference.”
Kelders said McGann did what he normally did,whileMassalagewasabletocomeonwith spin and have an impact.
It left the Roar with 23 overs to face at the end of the day.
It was a big test for the side which has been bowled out for under 100 three times this
season so far and struggled to find runs.
The Roar managed to get to 2-69 at stumps. Kelders said they were happy with that and it puts them on top.
“It can be difficult late in the day when there’s a lot of pressure on,” he said. “To get away with being only two wickets down, sets us up for next week.”
Sumedha Gamage will resume at 14 not out andJacobCaruanawillresumeattwonotout. Massalage made a quick fire 48 off 37 balls.
A win would move the Roar away slightly from the relegation battle, while keeps it in finals contention.
Just nine points separates fourth and 10th after seven rounds.
Kelders said with their young group, the focusistoensuretheyremainindivision2for next season.
Tigers full of confidence
By Tara Murray
Things are coming together nicely for Lancefield in the Gisborne and District Cricket Association Jensen Shield.
Having put together some good results leading into the Christmas break, the Tigers found themselves in a top two position. They cemented that on Saturday, with a hard fought win against Wallan in the first game back.
Tigers coach Alan Sinclair said things were tracking along nicely for the side.
“We got going and got a few wins in a row and had a good end to last year,” he said. “We’ve now started the year off well.
“We’ve got a bit more consistency after the first few weeks with some chopping and changing.
“Everyone is now staying consistent and hopefully we’ll have our best XI for the rest of the season and we can get a home final.”
Sinclair said Saturday’s match with Wallan got a bit closer than they would have liked. The Tigers made 8-184 from their overs
with Luke Malone top scoring with 69.
Wallan was then two for 50 at the drinks break with the Tigers in control. The game changed from there.
“They batted really well after drinks,” Sinclair said. “They had one bloke make 40 off 20 balls and scored really quickly.
“Cam Osmond was able to get him out and in the second or third last over and there was a bit of relief.
“We were able to hold on and have a good win,.We always felt like we were a little bit in front.
Wallan finished 8-172.
Trent McNamara took three wickets for the Tigers.
Sinclair said the biggest thing for them this season had been the spread of contributors they had been able to have.
“Every week someone different makes a 50,” he said. “We talk about that we have four or five guys making the runs and if someone is scoring, someone else does.
“It’s the same with the wickets. Andrew Richardt has 17 for the year, but the last game
New look state league
The FV state league competition division structure will expand from 2026 for both the men’s and women’s competitions.
The same structures as 2024 will be in place for this year, before from 2026 the state leagues will expand from the current five-division structure to seven divisions for the men’s competition and eight divisions for the women’s competition.
Football Victoria said the decision follows extensive consultation with clubs over recent seasons, and introduces a more streamlined and consistent framework for competition.
Under the new model, all leagues within each division will be zoned geographically into north-west and south-east regions.
Currently the top state league competitions for men’s and women’s are split into north-west and south-east regions, while the lower state league grades are single regions.
Football operations executive manager Dan Birrell said the move is designedtoenhancethecompetitiveness and growth opportunities within the leagues.
before Christmas it was Sam Taylor taking five.
It’s good to share everything around.”
While the Tigers are sitting in second spot, they aren’t getting ahead of themselves.
A home final and a top two finish is the goal, but Sinclair said they have a couple of good tests ahead of them before the end of the season.
“We’ve still got to come up against Riddell andHarkness,”hesaid.“Wewinbothofthose games, we lock in a home final.
“We play Harkness in the final round and Riddell two rounds before finals. It will be a good test.
The Tigers this Saturday travel to Gisborne to face Gisborne.
In other results, Riddell bounced back against Melton South.
After losing in the last game before the break, the Bombers made 5-291 from their overs before restricting the Royals to 1014.
Harness had a big win against Gisborne, while Rupertswood beat Sunbury United.
“These changes will align the entire seniorcommunityfootballpyramid,”he said. “The shift in structure will provide clubs with a streamlined competition format, while the introduction of a two-up, two-down promotion and relegation process ensures increased competitiveness and fairness across all levels.”
The changes will include a standardised promotion and relegation system across all divisions will provide clubs with a clear pathway for progression.
Unclearpromotionandrelegationhas been something a number of clubs have previously complained about. Some divisions have had one side promoted and others have had two sides promoted and it has changed from year to year.
In 2026, the new state league 6 men’s competition will contain teams from this year’s state league 4 and five, while state league 7 will contain teams from the state league 5 competitions.
Further information will be shared oncethe2025finalleaguestructuresare confirmed late in January.
Vaughan Mcclure. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 437924_07
Tara Murray Jason McGann. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 445372_01
