Lions host art show
The Woodend Lions Club is hosting its 50th annual art show this weekend, supporting local artists of all ages and raising money for charitable causes. All artworks are available for purchase, with a small commission from each sale going towards the club and its activities.
Woodend Lions president Barry McDonald said entry is by gold coin and visitors will see a “boggling array of talent“ from skilled amateurs to highly polished professionals.
“The club has a mantra ‘we don’t want to live in a town where people go hungry or go cold in winter,’ and we do the best we can to put money towards satisfying that affirmation,” he said.
Mr McDonald said a popular category of the annual art show is the children’s section, with visitors “really excited by what the children can do”.
In its 50th year, Mr McDonald said the popular annual show has been “part of the social calendar for the town for a long time.”
Hosted at St Ambrose Hall in Woodend, a ticketed gala opening night for the art show will be held on Friday, March 7 from 6–8.30pm.
The art show will be open from 10am–5pm on Saturday, March 8, and Sunday, March 9, and from 10am–4pm on Monday, March 10. Details: woodendlions.org.au/artshow2025/
Hope for mobile coverage
By Oscar Parry
Macedon Ranges residents could see an end to mobile black spots following a federal government plan to greatly increase mobile phonecoverageinruralandremoteAustralia.
Announced by the government on Tuesday, February 25, the Universal Outdoor Mobile Obligation would create up to five million square kilometres of new outdoor mobile coverage–includingover37,000kilometreson regionalroads.
Accordingtothegovernment,theobligation will require mobile carriers to provide access to mobile voice and SMS “almost everywhere across Australia” and will use low Earth orbit
satellitesanddirecttodevicetechnology.
Communications Minister Michelle Rowland said this would provide outdoor voice and SMS in existing mobile black spots and improve “the availability of mobile signals duringdisastersandpoweroutages“.
Kyneton Bushland Resort assistant manager and deputy fire warden Sharryn Smith said her organisation is one of those affected by the threat of unreliable mobile phone coverage duringdisastersandoutages.
Shesaidpoorandunreliablemobilecoverage in the resort could pose a risk during severe winds or bushfires if it was to lose internet access.
“If the internet goes out, we don’t have
57
a phone system … if we have to revert to our mobiles, we’re pretty much stuck,” Ms Smith said. “Being Macedon Ranges’ largest accommodation provider, in high peak we’d have about 300people here … as well as residents that live out on the property as well,” shesaid.
The resort has a walkie talkie system to reverttoinemergencysituations,butMsSmith said these are often used by staff in day-to-day activities due to coverage black spots on the property.
Duetoablackspotwheretheofficeislocated, shesaidstaffandguestsalsooftenneedtowalk outsidetomakemobilephonecalls.
Regional telecommunications independent
review committee chair Alannah MacTiernan said the obligation would address “endemic coverage limitations which see many Australians feeling frustrated and vulnerable by being outside current reliable mobile coverage”.
“This guarantee of service will be a gamechanger in emergency and natural disaster solutions for Australians living in ruralandremoteareas,”MsMacTiernansaid. According to the government, implementation of the increased outdoor SMS and voice call access is expected by late 2027, with many Australians likely to obtain access before then, and increased basic mobile data accesswillbeconsideredinthefuture.
Woodend Lions Club president Barry McDonald. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 461344_02
Push for the reforming of a Sunbury Lions Club
The local Lions district is seeking to reinstate the Lions Club of Sunbury, with 10 or more new members needed to bring the club back into action after it closed in 2023.
Lions Zone 3 chair Gerry Monaghan said the Lions Club of Sunbury officially closed in July 2023 due to a lack of membership and the remaining members feeling that it was becoming harder to keep it running due to their age and ill health.
In 2023, the club had been in operation for
59 years.
“They did a fantastic job over a number of years, but it just got to the point where they couldn’t keep going,” Mr Monaghan said.
“I think every community needs volunteers to serve the community, [and] Sunbury is no different from so many other communities across the world – the community has challenges and some of those Lions will be able to help with.
“If people want to … volunteer and
contribute to their community, Lions is the way to do it.”
He said new members who join the club would be assisting with fundraising and helping to decide how to allocate the raised funds within Sunbury.
Before it closed, the Lions Club of Sunbury supported organisations including Beyond Blue and the Sunbury CFA Fire Brigade and programs aimed at supporting youth, cancer research, and raising awareness of diabetes.
Vale to sporting stalwart
By Oscar Parry
Macedon Ranges community sport stalwart Robert McIntyre died last month, with his long history with local sport leaving an “immeasurable” impact.
Rob died peacefully surrounded by family and close to the MCG on Saturday, February 22.
Localsportingcommunitymemberssaythat there will “never be another Rob McIntyre in terms of that dedication to community sport“.
Sister Linda Fullard said that “like our father before him, Rob was a community-minded person who had the ability to be impartial and fair“.
“Rob was also very humble and had a deep respect for history. A loyal friend, those who knew him enjoyed his quick wit and dry sense of humour,” Ms Fullard said.
“Rob’s love of the game led him to be a passionate advocate for growing girls’ and women’scricketashewantedeveryonetoshare the benefits of playing.
“Despite Rob’s significant contribution to cricket over the years, he always felt that he got more out of the game than what he put in.”
Gisborne and District Cricket Association (GDCA) president Simon Ovenden said “it’s going to be very hard to find another Rob McIntyre“.
“Where do you start? It wasn’t just local cricket, it was the Romsey Football Club as well, he was a life member of both the football club and the cricket club and had an impact at Riddell Cricket Club and life member and legend of the GDCA,” Mr Ovenden said.
“His impact is immeasurable. Fifty years involvement in cricket in the Macedon Ranges and community sport more broadly,” he said.
“He treated everybody equally … he was authentic and he was consistent“.
Romsey Cricket Club secretary Tim McCarthy said Rob played “every role” in the club during his time, including president, captain, secretary, treasurer, junior co-ordinator, and coach.
He was also a member of the Romsey Recreation Reserve Committee.
“I think it’s well known that Rob was always striving to improve … always striving to get the best out of himself and out of those around him,” Mr McCarthy said.
“If you go to Romsey these days and you see
what the ground looks like and the way it’s presented, that’s a massive credit to Rob.”
A funeral service for Rob will be held at the Romsey Recreation Reserve, Park Lane, Romsey from 11am on Friday, March 7.
After closing, a Lions Club must be reinstated within two years before needing to hand back its charter – meaning that the Sunbury club has until June 30 to reform. Mr Monaghan said while the club requires a minimumof 10 memberstoreform,having20 members would be ideal.
To express interest in becoming a member of the club, contact: g.monaghan@radmail. com.au
Oscar Parry
Call out for Hume artists
Applications are open for a Hume council arts grants program that aims to support artists, creatives, and organisations to upskill, develop new projects, and contribute to the region’s arts and cultural community.
With applications closing at 5pm on Tuesday, March 11, funding is available for local artists towards sharing their art or heritage practice.
Grants range from up to $3000 for a creative activity to $20,000 for a creative project.
According to council, Melbourne artist Anica Gikovska said receiving fundingundertheprograminaprevious year was “transformative” for her artistic practice.
“While I had experience working with various materials, I’d always been curious about ceramics but hadn’t had the chance to explore it. The grant enabled me to take my first steps into ceramics by learning the fundamentals and acquiring essential equipment and materials,” Gikovska said.
“Thanks to the grant, I was able to expand my practice by taking a beginner ceramics course and acquire the tools I needed to start working with clay. While I’m still at the early stages of my journey, this transition has been an exciting and rewarding way to expand my creative horizons.
“The grant has had such a positive impactonmypractice,andI’dencourage anyone with a creative idea to apply. You never know where it might lead.”
Applications are encouraged from diverse and underrepresented sectors, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, LGBTQIA+ individuals, people with disabilities, and those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.
Macedon Ranges community sport stalwart Robert McIntyre died peacefully surrounded by family and close to the MCG on Saturday, February 22. (Joe Mastroianni)
A day of neighbourly connection
By Oscar Parry
Sunbury Neighbour Day is fast approaching, with the March event aiming to promote neighbourly and community connection among residents.
Set for Sunday, March 30, the day will involve a series of community group, organisation,andresident-ledeventsacrossthe suburb aimed at strengthening connections between neighbours. Sunbury Neighbour Day co-ordinator Adelae Bowen said the event will bring a “local flavour” to the national Neighbour Day campaign.
“It’s all about making social connections withpeopleinourneighbourhoodandmaking Sunbury a strong and connected community,” she said.
“I think it’s all pretty important in Sunbury because our population is growing so much.”
Residents can get involved by organising their own event or gathering.
There will also be public events around town hosted by community groups and local estates, with a list soon to be published on the Sunbury Neighbour Day Facebook page.
Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health
and community group Sunbury and Surrounds LGBTIQ Social Club are partnering to host a free event titled Meet Your Rainbow Neighbour, involving lunch and bingo for local LGBTIQA+ people aged over 50.
Community Health community engagements and partnerships team leader LaurenTyrrellsaidtheorganisationis“looking forwardtoprovidingasafe[and]inclusiveevent where people can be themselves, join in some fun activities, and hopefully meet some new people from the local LGBTIQ+ community”.
“Older LGBTIQ+ people have experienced greater levels of discrimination and exclusion
The wonder of nature on display
Dromkeen Gallery will present the work of 30 Macedon Ranges artists in an exhibition and fundraiser that will support restoration of the historic homestead.
Titled The Wonder of Nature and running fromApril12–27,theexhibitionwillshowcase a collection of artworks across sculpture, watercolour, acrylic, woodwork, and textile media.
Constructed in 1889, Riddells Creek’s Dromkeen was originally owned by famous Victorian judge Arthur Chomley, who was
involved in the trial of Ned Kelly.
In the last 50 years, the venue has become known for its regular exhibits and promotion of Australian children’s picture storybooks.
Gallery owner Bernadette Joiner said that a small commission from each artwork sold will go towards restoration of the historic building’s side decking, which has degraded over time.
“Obviously, it’s a very special exhibition with the theme of The Wonder of Nature … [which] fits in with the whole setting of the
Macedon Ranges,” Ms Joiner said.
Exhibition organiser and local artist Kathy Medbury said that along with the restoration work, funds raised will “greatly help to see Dromkeen continue on.”
Theexhibitionwillbeopenfrom10am–5pm every day from April 12–17 at the Dromkeen Gallery, 1012 Kilmore Road, Riddells Creek.
The event is part of the 2025 Macedon Ranges Autumn Festival.
Oscar Parry
over their lifetimes and there traditionally haven’t been a lot of events or programs targeted specifically for them. So, we hope to seelotsofnewfacescomingalongandenjoying this event,” Ms Tyrrell said.
Ms Tyrrell said Sunbury Neighbour Day will provide local community members opportunities to “form meaningful social connections and friendships, which play such an important role in overall health and wellbeing.” “Research shows that strong social ties contribute to lower levels of stress, greater happiness, and better mental health.”
Details: sunburyneighbourday.org.au
Black Forest Drive upgraded
Safety improvement works are now complete on a section of the busy Black Forest Drive between Woodend and Macedon.
Improvementsincludecontinuousbike lanes from Macedon to Woodend and intersection upgrades at key locations. Other changes include an altered lane configuration to now have one lane in each direction and dedicated cycling lanes in each direction, a painted centre median for vehicle turning lanes and pedestrian refuges, resealing of the road surface, and new line marking.
Audio-tactile line marking was completed on the centre and edge road lines, higher-risk side road entrances were sealed, and new street lighting was installed on a section of the Calder Freeway overpass.
Speed limits on sections of the road have also been changed, including extending the 60 kilometres an hour zone at South Road by about 160 metres, aiming to slow vehicles approaching the new pedestrian crossing and bus stops near the intersection.
Between Willeys Road and south of Nursery Road, the speed limit was also reduced from 80 kilometres an hour to 60, aiming to improve safety as vehicles cross bicycle lanes to enter and exit the Calder Freeway.
Roads and Road Safety Minister Melissa Horne said that as the drive is used by a wide range of vehicles, these changes mean that “all road users can now share the road more safely.”
MacedonMPMary-AnneThomassaid that she thanks the community for their input on the upgrades and their patience as the works were being completed.
Nominate a local business
Nominations are open for Macedon Ranges’ biennial Community Choice Awards, which is aimed at celebrating local businesses that provide outstanding customer service.
Macedon Ranges businesses can be nominated across five categories: agribusiness and primary production; health and wellbeing; hospitality and accommodation; professional, retail, and service; and trades and manufacturing.
According to council, the awards give residents the opportunity to show their appreciation for businesses that make a difference in their lives, from a “café that serves your morning coffee with a smile, a skilled tradesperson who goes the extra mile, or a health provider delivering exceptional care”
Mayor Dom Bonanno said the awards are
an important outlet for recognising local businesses.
“We have so many outstanding businesses in our region that provide excellent service and go the extra mile for their customers,” Mr Bonanno said. “The Community Choice Awards give residents the chance to say thank you and celebrate their contributions.”
In the 2023 Community Choice Awards, 78 local businesses were nominated by the community.
Nominations for the awards are open until Monday, March 24, with the public then able to vote for their favourite businesses from April.
Updates will be provided on the council’s website as the awards process progresses. Details: yoursay.mrsc.vic.gov.au/ community-choice
Dromkeen Gallery owner Bernadette Joiner with donated artwork for a raffle prize as part of the fundraiser. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 459923_01
Cricket for all abilities
Hanging Rock Cricket Club hosted an all abilities cricket match, emphasising participation and enjoyment of the sport.
Hosted on Sunday, February 23, Hanging Rock and Maiden Gully cricket clubs faced off on a picture-perfect Sunday at the Hanging Rock Cricket Club in Woodend.
The teams played a 10-over game per side, with each player bowling one over and batting pairs facing two overs.
Maiden Gully came out in front with a 10-runvictory,butHangingRockCricketClub secretary Nick Maxwell said the match was more about enjoyment.
“Itwasjustgoodtoseepeopleplayingcricket for just the joy of being there,” Mr Maxwell
said. “The game was played in great spirit with everyone enjoying the opportunity.”
Mr Maxwell said that after the match, players retired for lunch and were treated to a “delicious Hanging Rock spread.”
“We’re pretty well known for our afternoon teas … that … was received well,” he said.
MrMaxwellsaidthatthematchwasplanned before Christmas.
“We were hoping to have a couple of opportunities throughout the season, but the first time around we got rained out,” he said.
He said the club is currently investigating opportunities for hosting future all abilities cricket matches.
Briefs
Bulla grassfire
On the afternoon of Wednesday, February 26, fire crews were called out to a fast-moving grassfire in Bulla. According to VicEmergency, CFA, Forest Fire Management Victoria, and Fire Rescue Victoria crews fought the blaze on the ground with assistance from aerial crews above, and the fire was contained within two hours. VicEmergency is reminding residents that grassfires can start and spread quickly and are extremely dangerous and to download the VicEmergency app and set up a watch zone.
Technology-led theft warning
Victoria Police is issued a warning to vehicle owners, as intelligence reveals tech savvy thieves are behind a surge in car thefts. Increasing numbers of cars are being stolen from residential streets, driveways, and other community locations, where no associated burglary, robbery, or carjacking takes place. In many of these thefts the owner reported to police they retained the keys and their car had simply vanished. Police are urging owners of vehicles with electronic push start technology to look at a range of preventative measures to help deter thieves, including an on board diagnostic port lock which prevents an offender connecting a reprogramming device to your vehicle.
FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au
Sunbury & Macedon Ranges Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly
Players from Hanging Rock Cricket Club and Maiden Gully Cricket Club at the Hanging Rock Cricket Club. (Supplied).
We’re building an alternative to the West Gate Bridge and there will be transport disruptions
As part of Victoria’s Big Build, we’re putting the finishing touches on the new West Gate Tunnel, an alternative to the West Gate Bridge. When the tunnel opens in 2025, you can enter on the West Gate Freeway near Williamstown Road, and take advantage of new exits to Footscray Road, Dynon Road or CityLink.
Road disruptions: Road, lanes and ramps closed
M80 Ring Road, Laverton North At times until mid March
Princes Freeway, Laverton North At times until mid March
Greensborough-bound from Boundary Road to the Western Freeway
Altona-bound from Western Freeway to Boundary Road
Citybound ramp to M80 Ring Road
West Gate Freeway, Spotswood Until late MarchCitybound lane from Millers to Williamstown roads
Citybound exit ramp to Williamstown Road
Millers Road, Brooklyn Until late MarchCitybound entry ramp to West Gate Freeway
Grieve Parade, Brooklyn Until late MarchCitybound entry ramp to West Gate Freeway
IWD marked in Macedon Ranges
By Oscar Parry
Macedon Ranges is preparing to host a panel event for International Women’s Day (IWD) this week, with this year’s global theme focussing on accelerating action to achieve gender equality.
Macedon Ranges will host an event titled March Forward: Women in Action in the Macedon Ranges from 5.30pm–8pm on Thursday, March 6, at the Kyneton Town Hall. Order of Australia member Stephanie Woollard will lead a panel discussion with a diverse range of speakers who have varied local volunteering experiences.
MsWoollardisanauthor,socialentrepreneur, UNawardwinnerforresponsiblebusiness,and founder and chief executive of Seven Women – a not-for-profit organisation that aims to empower marginalised women, children and communities in Nepal.
The event will include live music from a local musician, stories of volunteering and promotingchangeintheMacedonRanges,and a discussion about how residents can promote meaningful progress to achieving gender equality through community participation.
Council’s community director Maria Weiss said the council looks forward to hearing the speakers’ empowering stories “as a platform to
History lesson at school
Macedon Ranges Primary School is calling for historic photos and documents from past students and staff as it prepares to celebrate its 150th anniversary with a fete in November.
Hosted from 10am–4pm at the school on Saturday, November 15, the fete will mark the milestone with a historic-themed event.
Attendees can take a step back in time and enjoy activities including horse and carriage rides, candlemaking, simulated gold panning, an old-time dress-up and photography booth, and letter making.
Boiled lollies, along with brisket served from a converted army truck, will add to the olden day theme.
As part of the anniversary celebrations, the school is collating its history into a book and will present displays at the fete of historic memorabilia.
Schoolcouncilcommitteememberandevent
lead organiser Kate Medhurst said that she has found “heaps” of interesting history relating to the school, including its original 1875 tender document in the Victorian Public Records.
PrincipalAndrewBloomfieldsaidtheschool is seeking historic documents, including old school reports, and photographs that help portray how the school has changed over time.
“We want to get a really good snapshot of the school’s history,” Mr Bloomfield said.
He said that the milestone is a big event for the area of Macedon.
“It’s an amazing event … and just to be overseeing that at the time is … a really big privilege,” he said.
If you would like to contribute photos, documents, or memorabilia to be presented in adisplayatthefete,contacttheprimaryschool.
Contact: macedon.ps@education.vic.gov.au or 5426 1518
build on meaningful progress towards gender equality.”
Ms Weiss said that 30 years ago, the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action made a “bold commitment to gender equality – a promise of a future where women and girls would have the same opportunities, rights, and freedoms as men.”
“Since then, we’ve seen remarkable progress. But as a mother of a teenage daughter, I can’t ignorethereality:wearestillfarfromwherewe should be,” she said.
“Toomanypromisesremainunfulfilled,and too many women continue to fight battles they should never have to face.”
She said that in previous IWD events, the council has welcomed “a range of inspirational women generously sharing their stories and contributions.”
“This year is no different – emceed by social entrepreneur and author Stephanie Woollard OAM, we’ve assembled a panel of women making a real difference in the Macedon Ranges.”
Entry to the event is free and a spot can be reserved on the council’s website.
Details: .mrsc.vic.gov.au/See-Do/ Events-and-Awards/Whats-on-around-theshire/March-Forward-Women-in-Action-inthe-Macedon-Ranges
School staff Mel Smillie, Sue Erwin, Anne Eames, Julie Stein-Reeves, principal Andrew Bloomfield, Tracy Tadd, Karren Baker, and Kirstie Hall. (Ljubica Vrankovic). 461095_02
YOU CAN TEACH IN THE MACEDON RANGES
The future is calling, and we need your help to educate the next generation. With secondary teaching scholarships, employment-based degrees, and a range of supports to help get you into the classroom, there’s never been a better time to become a teacher in Victoria.
Surgeon helps women feel whole
of modern breast cancer treatment is the importanceofhopeandthattherecanbealight at the end of the tunnel.
“Traditionally, people think of what they see in movies, but we’re so good at treating people now and really making sure their side effects are well-controlled that we have a very different ethos,” Dr Chakrabarti said.
By Jaidyn Kennedy
“Women’s health has always been a passion of mine,” would probably sufficiently explain why Dr Anannya Chakrabarti is a reconstructive breast surgeon, but it wouldn’t do the journey professionals and patients go on justice.
Practising in a highly-specialised field, Dr Chakrabarti said breast surgery is a good mix between science and art.
“There is quite a lot of satisfaction in my job that you get to see the strength and resilience of the women that I treat,” she said.
The reality of women battling breast cancer and going through a mastectomy, the surgical removal of one or both breasts, is having to come to terms with losing an integral part of oneself.
“Rebuilding a woman’s breast is very important for their psychology after such a devastating diagnosis,” Dr Chakrabarti said.
“Being able to give them some semblance of normalityafteressentiallyamajorlifeeventcan be very satisfying.”
Another reality of experiencing and treating breast cancer is that it is it can be emotionally intensive time.
“Emotionally, it can be quite taxing at times,” Dr Chakrabarti said. “You see people’s relationships go through a bit of a rollercoaster, but most people pull through quite nicely.
“It’s very satisfying seeing them celebrate milestoneslikehavingchildrenafterdiagnosis.”
Which is why one of the prevailing messages
VICTORIA’S CONTAINER DEPOSIT SCHEME
“What I tell patients is ‘Look, it’s a busy time in your life, it does go through very quickly and obviously not everyone has the same story but the majority of people are cured.”
“So it’s all about hope and moving forward.”
Despitehowoverwhelmingandlife-changing abreastcancerdiagnosiscanbe,DrChakrabarti explained that it is important to not let the condition rule one’s life.
“People do have control over what they do, they can exercise during their treatment, and continue to work during their treatment,” she said. “It shouldn’t be taking over your life, you should be doing all the normal things you normally do.
“No one ever wants to hear it, but you’ve got to just think I’m having treatment for a medical condition.”
Some important points to remember when having a discussion about breast cancer is that earlydetectioniskingandthatmen,evenifthey make up less than one per cent of diagnoses in Australia, can develop breast cancer.
Dr Chakrabarti said no man or woman is an island, and that is especially the case during arduous medical procedures.
“It’simportanttounderstandthatyouarenot just treating the individual, you are treating the whole unit,” she said. “There is a lot more we candoasasocietytohelpthosewhoarehelping the person going through it.
“Ithinkthatprobablythefamilygoesthrough it more- It’s like when you are giving birth the husband is sort of sitting there more anxious.”
Dr Anannya Chakrabarti is a reconstructive breast surgeon at Mercy Health. (Supplied)
Intrusive questions, intimidation, suggestive jokes...
Gendered violence comes in many forms. All are OHS issues. All are unacceptable.
WorkSafe Gendered Violence
Helping victim-survivors to heal
WestCASA is a community based not-for-profit sexual assault counselling service operating in the western suburbs. Jaidyn Kennedy discovered the ways the organisation is helping victim-survivors on their recovery journeys.
“When you’re in that situation, you don’t think there is any way out,” is a statement that many victim survivors of sexual assault the world over may understand on a deeper level than most.
For Gabriela, not her real name, it took years to escape an abusive marriage with her five children.
In a dangerous environment, finding the strength to use your voice is no easy task.
“When you are trapped in family violence circumstances,it’sjustsohardtotalkaboutit,” Gabriela said.
Trusting someone else to listen can be another story altogether.
“It’s very hard to trust people – you don’t think anyone is ever going to believe you, ever going to hear you,“ Gabriela said.
Not only did Gabriela feel trapped in her own relationship, but restricted in what she could say or do by the culture that surrounded her.
“That’s how you’ve been brought up, that’s how you see things and you don’t know any other way,“ she said.
“You think you need to make a man happy, and that is your job, so it feels like massive shame and guilt [to speak up].”
The Western Region Centre Against Sexual Assault, or WestCASA, exists to ensure victim-survivors like Gabriela have a place to safelytelltheirstoryandcanfindtheresources they need to heal.
Everyone involved in the establishment of the organisation in 1987 had lived experience as victim-survivors of sexual assault.
Some of the services the centre directly provides include direct counselling, information on legal options, coaching for daunting tasks such as appearing in court and to referrals to doctors who are sensitive to the needs of victim-survivors.
In WestCASA, Gabriela found refuge.
“Before [WestCASA] I was so lost, I was so hurt, I was in so much pain, I didn’t think I could live another day“ she said.
“But every time I left a session with my counsellor, I felt like I had added something to my personality.”
An important step in navigating sexual assault is regaining a sense of agency, Gabriela said.
She said taking back control of her life was an amazing feeling.
“I am just finding myself more and more, and as you feel that power and having more control of your life, you realise, yes, I am in control,“ she said.
“Just realising all these choices makes you feel so much stronger and people around you recognise you’ve changed.
“When they verbalise it and you hear it, it makes you want to do more, it makes you want to achieve more.”
Gabriela acknowledged there will always be setbacks on the road to recovery.
“Yes, the memories are there, the flashbacks are there, it comes and goes, but I keep moving forward,“ she said.
As the western suburbs continue to grow and incorporate new community members from the across the world, WestCASA has adapted and evolved to ensure it can support the different cultures that call the west home.
WestCASAboardchairMohanaMahadevan, a migrant from Singapore of Ceylonese Tamil heritage, has experience as a social worker helping asylum seekers and refugees settle in Australia.
She has seen first-hand the obstacles culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities can face addressing sexual assault.
“In many cultures, discussing sexual violenceistaboo,leadingtosilenceanddenial,” she said.
“This culture of silence perpetuates the cycle of trauma, preventing survivors from seeking
the help and support they desperately need.”
Mohana observed a gap between those who admit they have been subjected to sexual violence and those who actively seek support.
“Iobservedthatthoughdisclosuresofsexual assault and sexual violence were high, the desire to talk about or heal from it was low,“ she said.
“There was a tendency to leave the past behind, a tendency to not taint the future for therestofthefamilyandthewidercommunity.
“This lack of resolution vibrates through generations.”
One of the ways WestCASA endeavours to bridge this gap is through integrated, trauma-informed care.
In the past year, WestCASA has partnered with organisations from the Vietnamese, Pasifika, African, Indian and Aboriginal and TorresStraitIslanderscommunitiestoimprove cultural engagement programming.
A concerted effort has also been made to bring more staff and volunteers from CALD backgrounds onboard.
Even without cultural barriers, addressing such a confronting and personal experience can be immensely difficult.
WestCASA chief executive Annette Vickery said the amount of people who seek support is worryingly low.
“We know from the AIHW (Australian Institute of Health and Welfare) that 27 per cent of victim survivors of sexual violence will seekaserviceorsupport– that’salownumber,“
shesaid.“Itisunconscionabletothink there are people in our community whowouldnotseeksupportoutoffear of being judged, or their experience devalued.
“Every victim-survivor deserves to be seen, heard and accepted just as they are for the experience which is unique to them.
“The earlier we can support someone to reduce the traumatic impacts of sexual violence, the better outcomes they will have.
“There is then a reduction in flow on impacts of health, mental health and resilience generally, which improves the likelihood that the impacts of sexual violence won’t stop a victim survivor from going on to enjoy their life.”
Often overshadowed in the discourse on sexual assault are men, but WestCASA works to ensure their voices are heard.
Annette said that male victim survivors can be more hesitant to put their hand up.
“What we do know generally speaking is that men disclose sexual violence against them later, and thus at times the traumatic impact of the sexual violence has caused more harm to the person,” she said.
She observed societal stigmas and intrasexualattitudesasfactorsinfluencingthis phenomenon.
“There is a shame factor in men disclosing, which is similar to what women were experiencing generations ago,“ she said.
“Men as a cohort are not yet in a place where they accept this truth, and see and understand this is not about their gender or them as a person, and this should not have happened to them.”
While the organisation has peer support programs of its own, one of WestCASA’s great successes is helping provide a platform for survivors to spread their wings outside the group.
Gabriela has made great inroads outside of WestCASA with her regained sense of self.
“I chose a career I wanted to go into and during that time I have made lifetime friends.
“It’s okay if I fall, I step back, but I know for a fact that I am going to get up and continue.”
To learn more about WestCASA or to find ways to get support, call 92416 0444 or visit: westcasa.org.au
Last year WestCASA started the ‘Partners in Prevention of Sexual Violence Project’ with LaTrobe University. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 442192_02
Above: WestCASA head of clinical services Patrycja Toczek and chief executive Annette Vickery. (Attie Mohebali) 457672_03
Right: WestCASA board chair Mohana Mahadevan. (Supplied)
This International Women’s Day, the team at Global Village Learning (GVL) is reflecting on a challenge in alternative education — why is there often an underrepresentation of girls in alternative education environments?
Executive Director Peter Hutton believes that many girls who are unhappy in mainstream education tend to quietly disengage. Consequently, traditional schools can accommodate girls more easily because they are less likely to ‘act out’ or ‘misbehave’ as a symptom of a deeper problem.
“This is not ideal,” Peter explains. “Girls often persist in unsuitable schooling environments for longer, while parents of disengaged boys are morelikelytomovethemintoalternativesettings in response to disciplinary action.”
TheteamatGVL believeinfosteringalearning environment where every learner, regardless
Encouraging more girls into alternative education
of gender, feels seen, heard, and empowered. Its Montessori-inspired, learner-led model is built around curiosity, autonomy, and real-world learning. We know many young people, regardless of gender, thrive when they are empowered to explore, create, and take ownership of their own educational journey.
Associate Principal Pip Cleaves emphasises the importance of making alternative education more accessible to girls.
“We want to see more girls stepping into leadership, innovation, and social impact projects. Wewantfamiliestoknowthatalternativeeducation is not just a last resort for disengaged boys — it’s a powerful, future-focused option for any young person who wants to take charge of their learning journey.”
This International Women’s Day, the team at GVL is calling on parents, educators, and the wider community to help shift the narrative. Let’s ensure thatmoregirlshavetheopportunitytoexperiencea learning environment that nurtures their potential, supports their aspirations, and empowers them to positively impact the world.
Grainger Legal is proud to showcase women in the law
Would it surprise you to know that today there are more women practising law in Victoria than men? Not just a few extra, either, but a solid 4.9 per cent more.
Caroline Grainger, principal lawyer at Grainger Legal, is not surprised.
“The only thing that surprises me, is the surprise that some people express when they learn that all 14 of our legal team are women!” she said.
Data from the 2024 Victorian Legal Services Board annual report shows that the number of women working as registered lawyers in
‘‘ The only thing that surprises me, is the surprise that some people express when they learn that all 14 of our legal team are women ’’ - Caroline Grainger
Victoria has been steadily increasing over time. It was in 2020 that women first outnumbered men as registered lawyers in Victoria, a little more than 100 years after Victoria’s parliament passed the Women’s Disabilities Removal Act, which first allowed womentojoinprofessions,becomelawyersand sit on juries.
The report shows that although those who have been in the profession longest are still predominately men, 60 percent of lawyers who have been practising for 25 years or less are women. It also shows a growing cohort of lawyers identifying as non-binary.
Caroline thinks that women will continue to enter the legal profession in big numbers.
“When I first starting practising law, it was not always easy to find female barristers to brief and it was rare to appear before a female judge. Now, it would be unusual to find myself inamediationorcourtroomastheonlyfemale lawyer.”
Carolinewantstoseeanincreaseindiversity within the legal profession and hopes that women continue to see the law as a viable profession.
“My career as a lawyer has meant that I have had the opportunity to meet and
get to know so many people within our community who have needed support or advice. To be able to assist those people in their time of need, and to do so alongside the wonderful lawyers and legal staff in our firm, is a privilege.”
Caroline Grainger, principal lawyer at Grainger Legal. (Supplied)
FirstSecondThird
OPENING ROUND
MAR 6–9
BrisbaneLionsvsGeelongCats G
SydneySwansvsHawthorn SCG
GoldCoastSunsvsEssendon PFS
GWSGiantsvsCollingwood ES ROUND 1
MAR 13–16
RichmondvsCarlton MCG
HawthornvsEssendon MCG
GeelongCatsvsFremantle GMHBA
SydneySwansvsBrisbaneLions SCG
WBulldogsvsNthMelbourne MRVL
CollingwoodvsPortAdelaide MCG
AdelaideCrowsvsStKilda AO
MelbournevsGWSGiants MCG
WCoastEaglesvsGoldCoastSuns OS ROUND 2
MAR 20–23
CarltonvsHawthorn MCG
WBulldogsvsCollingwood MCG
EssendonvsAdelaideCrows MCG
PortAdelaidevsRichmond AO
StKildavsGeelongCats MRVL
BrisbaneLionsvsWCoastEagles G
NthMelbournevsMelbourne MRVL
FremantlevsSydneySwans OS ROUND 3
MAR 27–30
EssendonvsPortAdelaide MRVL
CarltonvsWBulldogs MRVL
MelbournevsGoldCoastSuns MCG
StKildavsRichmond MRVL
HawthornvsGWSGiants UTAS
AdelaideCrowsvsNthMelbourne AO
WCoastEaglesvsFremantle OS
ROUND 4
APR 3–6
CollingwoodvsCarlton MCG
GeelongCatsvsMelbourne GMHBA
GoldCoastSunsvsAdelaideCrows PFS
RichmondvsBrisbaneLions MCG
NthMelbournevsSydneySwans MRVL
GWSGiantsvsWCoastEagles ES
PortAdelaidevsStKilda AO
FremantlevsWBulldogs OS
ROUND 5
APR 10–13
AdelaideCrowsvsGeelongCats AO
CollingwoodvsSydneySwans AO
NthMelbournevsGoldCoastSuns BP
CarltonvsWCoastEagles AO
WBulldogsvsBrisbaneLions NO
MelbournevsEssendon AO
RichmondvsFremantle BP
StKildavsGWSGiants NO
PortAdelaidevsHawthorn AO
ROUND 6
APR 17–21
BrisbaneLionsvsCollingwood G
NthMelbournevsCarlton MRVL
WCoastEaglesvsEssendon OS MelbournevsFremantle MCG
AdelaideCrowsvsGWSGiants AO
RichmondvsGoldCoastSuns MRVL
SydneySwansvsPortAdelaide SCG
WBulldogsvsStKilda MRVL
GeelongCatsvsHawthorn MCG
ROUND 7
APR 24–27
MelbournevsRichmond MCG
CollingwoodvsEssendon MCG
FremantlevsAdelaideCrows OS
StKildavsBrisbaneLions MRVL
PortAdelaidevsNthMelbourne AO
GWSGiantsvsWBulldogs MO
GoldCoastSunsvsSydneySwans PFS
CarltonvsGeelongCats MCG
HawthornvsWCoastEagles MRVL
ROUND 8
MAY 1–4
EssendonvsNthMelbourne MRVL
StKildavsFremantle MRVL
WBulldogsvsPortAdelaide MARS
AdelaideCrowsvsCarlton AO
CollingwoodvsGeelongCats MCG
WCoastEaglesvsMelbourne OS
SydneySwansvsGWSGiants SCG
HawthornvsRichmond MCG
BrisbaneLionsvsGoldCoastSuns G
ROUND 9
MAY 8–11
FremantlevsCollingwood OS
StKildavsCarlton MCG
MelbournevsHawthorn MCG
EssendonvsSydneySwans MRVL
GoldCoastSunsvsWBulldogs TIO
PortAdelaidevsAdelaideCrows AO
RichmondvsWCoastEagles MCG
GeelongCatsvsGWSGiants GMHBA
NthMelbournevsBrisbaneLions NS
ROUND 10
MAY 15–18
GoldCoastSunsvsHawthorn TIO
SydneySwansvsCarlton SCG
CollingwoodvsAdelaideCrows MCG
PortAdelaidevsGeelongCats AO
GWSGiantsvsFremantle ES
WBulldogsvsEssendon MRVL
RichmondvsNthMelbourne MCG
BrisbaneLionsvsMelbourne G
WCoastEaglesvsStKilda OS
ROUND 11
MAY 22–25
GeelongCatsvsWBulldogs GMHBA
EssendonvsRichmond MCG
CarltonvsGWSGiants MRVL
HawthornvsBrisbaneLions MCG
NthMelbournevsCollingwood MRVL
FremantlevsPortAdelaide OS
AdelaideCrowsvsWCoastEagles AO
MelbournevsSydneySwans MCG
StKildavsGoldCoastSuns MRVL ROUND 12
MAY 29–JUN 1
BrisbaneLionsvsEssendon G
CollingwoodvsHawthorn MCG
GoldCoastSunsvsFremantle PFS
GWSGiantsvsRichmond ES
SydneySwansvsAdelaideCrows SCG
MelbournevsStKilda TP
WCoastEaglesvsGeelongCats OS
ROUND 13
JUN 5–9
WBulldogsvsHawthorn MRVL
AdelaideCrowsvsBrisbaneLions AO
RichmondvsSydneySwans MCG
GeelongCatsvsGCSuns GMHBA
GWSGiantsvsPortAdelaide MO
NthMelbournevsWCoastEagles HO
CarltonvsEssendon MCG
MelbournevsCollingwood MCG
ROUND 14
JUN 12–15
StKildavsWBulldogs MRVL
HawthornvsAdelaideCrows UTAS
BrisbaneLionsvsGWSGiants G
EssendonvsGeelongCats MCG
NthMelbournevsFremantle OS
PortAdelaidevsMelbourne AO
WCoastEaglesvsCarlton OS ROUND 15
JUN 19–22
FremantlevsEssendon OS
GeelongCatsvsBrisbaneLions GMHBA
CarltonvsNthMelbourne MCG
PortAdelaidevsSydneySwans AO
CollingwoodvsStKilda MRVL
GWSGiantsvsGoldCoastSuns ES
WBulldogsvsRichmond MRVL
ROUND 16
JUN 26–29
CollingwoodvsWCoastEagles MRVL
FremantlevsStKilda OS
GoldCoastSunsvsMelbourne PFS
HawthornvsNthMelbourne UTAS
PortAdelaidevsCarlton AO
RichmondvsAdelaideCrows MCG
SydneySwansvsWBulldogs SCG
ROUND 17
JUL 3–6
AdelaideCrowsvsMelbourne AO
BrisbaneLionsvsPortAdelaide G
CarltonvsCollingwood MCG
EssendonvsGoldCoastSuns MRVL
GeelongCatsvsRichmond GMHBA
NthMelbournevsWBulldogs MRVL
StKildavsHawthorn MRVL
SydneySwansvsFremantle SCG
WCoastEaglesvsGWSGiants OS ROUND 18
JUL 10–13
CarltonvsBrisbaneLions MRVL
FremantlevsHawthorn OS
GoldCoastSunsvsCollingwood PFS
GWSGiantsvsGeelongCats ES
MelbournevsNthMelbourne MCG
PortAdelaidevsWCoastEagles AO
RichmondvsEssendon MCG
StKildavsSydneySwans MRVL
WBulldogsvsAdelaideCrows MARS ROUND 19
JUL 17–20
AdelaideCrowsvsGoldCoastSuns AO
BrisbaneLionsvsWBulldogs G CarltonvsMelbourne MCG
CollingwoodvsFremantle MCG
EssendonvsGWSGiants MRVL
GeelongCatsvsStKilda GMHBA
HawthornvsPortAdelaide UTAS
SydneySwansvsNthMelbourne SCG
WCoastEaglesvsRichmond OS ROUND 20
JUL 24–27
AdelaideCrowsvsPortAdelaide AO
EssendonvsWBulldogs MRVL
HawthornvsCarlton MCG
FremantlevsWCoastEagles OS
GoldCoastSunsvsBrisbaneLions PFS
GWSGiantsvsSydneySwans ES NthMelbournevsGeelongCats MRVL RichmondvsCollingwood MCG
StKildavsMelbourne MRVL ROUND 21
JUL 31–AUG 3
AdelaideCrowsvsHawthorn AO CollingwoodvsBrisbaneLions MCG
FremantlevsCarlton OS GeelongCatsvsPortAdelaide GMHBA
GoldCoastSunsvsRichmond PFS
MelbournevsWCoastEagles MRVL
StKildavsNthMelbourne MRVL
SydneySwansvsEssendon
AUG
BrisbaneLionsvsSydneySwans
Take our federal election survey
With a federal election due by mid-May, Star Weekly wants to know what issues matter most to voters across Melbourne’s western and northern suburbs.
Voters will head to the polls to have their say on the next federal government by May 17.
While Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is yet to reveal when the election will be head, the constitutional requirement that there must be a minimum of 33 days between writs being issued by the governor-general, which dissolves parliament after the prime minister calls the election, and polling day, means the
votewilltakeplacesometimeinAprilorMay.
As one of the largest publishers of independent regional news in Victoria, Star Weekly is conducting a survey to gauge community sentiment around the election.
The results of the survey will help us gauge theappetiteamongreaderstowardthefederal election.
The survey, which can be completed online or in print, includes 16 questions and will take about five minutes to complete.
We will share the results of the survey with readers.
Star Weekly wantstoknowwhatourreaders
Free heart health check
The Hume Men’s Shed Sunbury is partnering with a cardiac research institute to provide free hearthealthcheck-upstocommunitymembers this Friday.
Partnering with the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute and receiving a government grantfortheinitiative,10-minuteappointments are available to be booked online, with the checks providing measurements of blood pressure, total cholesterol, and blood sugar levels, with advice provided following the session.
Shed secretary Albert Achterberg said the ideaforthepartnershipcameaboutbecausethe men’sshedisalwayslooking“foropportunities to look after the [members’] health.”
“Recently, we had a guy there who didn’t recognise the symptoms and luckily we did, andwecalledtheambulanceandthatcertainly saved his life … we’re at a vulnerable age,” Mr Achterberg said.
He said all members of the community are invited to attend a heart health check, with online pre-booking required.
“It’s just to turn around and give them the opportunitytocheckitout,becausesometimes they don’t want to go to a doctor,” he said.
Along with this initiative, the shed will also provide free first aid training to some of its members – funded through a grant – and in the past has invited Ambulance Victoria representatives to the shed to demonstrate how to use defibrillators.
“[An] important part of the men’s shed is [members’] health, and it’s a place where you can discuss it freely,” Mr Achterberg said.
The heart health check appointments will be provided at various start times throughout the morningonFriday,March7attheEnvironment Centre Building of the Hume Men’s Shed Sunbury, 158-160 Evans Street, Sunbury. Bookings: https://tinyurl.com/4wr9vh4t
consider to be the most important issue in their area that the next federal government needs to address.
We also want to know how important issues such as electricity prices, climate change policies, inflation and cost of living, health services, immigration and border control, national road and rail infrastructure, water infrastructure and broadband internet access are to you.
The survey also features questions about nuclear energy in Australia and reducing carbon emissions.
Readers are also being asked to consider
where they would most like to see a local increase in federal funding and why, the specific infrastructure projects they want funded locally, and issues in their backyard that they feel federal politicians are not paying enough attention to.
Star Weekly also wants to gauge readers’ concerns about issues such as global security, housing affordability and the influence of social media on public discourse and political decision-making in Australia.
To complete the survey, turn to page 22, or visit: https://starweekly.com.au/ competitions/
Hume Men’s Shed Sunbury members Ian Phillips, David Balfour, Barry Kelly, Geoff Moulder, and Peter Canning at the shed. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 461767_02
Discovering cardiac rehabilitation in the Macedon Ranges
Cardiac rehabilitation (cardiac rehab) plays a crucial role in helping individuals recover from heart-related events, such as heart attacks or surgeries, and in managing chronic heart conditions.
The Macedon Ranges Health (MRH) Cardiac Rehab program is designed to provide comprehensive support that empowers participants to lead healthier, more active lives while reducing the risk of future heart problems.
The program at MRH combines expert-led
exercise routines, personalised education, and ongoing support tailored to each individual’s needs. The focus is on fostering long-term lifestyle changes that not only enhance physical health but also improve overall well-being. Cardiac rehab helps to support individuals to lower their chances of hospital readmission and can also reduce their risk of death from heart conditions.
Cardiac Rehab at MRH typically begins during the transition to outpatient care, whether at home or within the community,
ensuring continuity in the rehabilitation process. MRH offers flexible options, including face-to-face sessions in a group setting or one-on-one appointments, based on the patient’s preference and comfort level.
A key component of the MRH program is the initial assessment with an exercise physiologist. This assessment ensures that each participant is ready to engage in group exercise sessions safely and effectively. The program is designed not just to restore heart
function but also to equip participants with the knowledge and skills to maintain a heart-healthy lifestyle.
For those seeking a structured and supportiveenvironmenttoaidtheirrecovery, the Heartsmart Cardiac Rehab Program at MRH is an excellent resource.
To learn more, call (03) 5428 0300 and ask for Louise Beer, the program coordinator. She can provide additional details and help you take the first step toward a healthier heart.
Young Athletes Strengthening Program
Caring support at home tailored to your individual needs
For people over 65 who have been approved for a government Home Care Package, the next step to receiving support at home is to choose a provider to coordinate your services.
With their local knowledge and nearly 50 years of experience delivering health, wellbeing and community services to Sunbury and the Macedon Ranges, Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health can work with you to tailor the type of services that are important to you to continue living comfortably in your own home and connected to your community.
“Our staff are genuinely values-driven to advocate for people to get the best out of their package,” said Michelle Franceschi, who leads the team. “We offer you choice and flexibility allowing you to decide who delivers your services and when.”
Sunbury and Cobaw has access to a range of service providers including Sunbury and Cobaw’s own supports and services such as podiatry, occupational therapy, physiotherapy, and social and exercise groups. Other types of services the scheme provides funding for include personal care, nursing, gardening, meal preparation and escorted transport services.
There is no wait list, and the Home Care PackagesteamatSunburyandCobawisready to begin assisting you to meet your needs and your goals and provide you personalised support to enable you to continue living independently at home and ensure that you maintain your quality of life as you age.
Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health is proudly not-for-profit and a rainbow tick accreditedorganisation ensuring that services are inclusive of the LGBTIQA+ community.
To find out more contact the Home Care Packages team on 5421 6061, email hcp@scchc.org.au or drop into one of Sunbury and Cobaw’s sites in Sunbury, Kyneton or Romsey.
To apply for a Home Care Package, contact My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 or visit www.myagedcare.gov.au
Are you looking for a Home Care Package provider?
Treating high blood pressure to prevent Alzheimer’s
Research from the Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing (CHeBA) suggests that high blood pressure treatment should be part of Alzheimer’s disease prevention strategies.
Hypertension is the most common risk factor for dementia, affecting an estimated 1.3 billionpeopleworldwide,includingoverhalfof all people over the age of 65. Antihypertensive medication is known to help prevent strokes but up to this point there have been few studies investigating whether antihypertensive medication can reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease, the most common cause of dementia.
Latest research published in the journal Neurology, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology, and led by Dr Matthew Lennon from UNSW Sydney’s Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing (CHeBA), looked at data from 31,250 individuals across 14 nations, to investigate whether previous hypertension or antihypertensive use modifies Alzheimer’s disease risk in those older than 60 years of age.
“Previous trials and longitudinal studies have indicated that ongoing antihypertensive use in late life reduces dementia risk, but the specific impact on Alzheimer’s disease and non-Alzheimer’s disease risk remained unclear,” said Dr Lennon.
“In our new study we found that those with untreated hypertension over the age of 60 had a 42 per cent greater risk of developing Alzheimer’s dementia compared to those with treated hypertension. However, if you had a diagnosis of hypertension and were receiving treatment, your risk for Alzheimer’s dementia was no different from those without hypertension.
“The findings of this study suggest that antihypertensive use should be part of any Alzheimer’s disease prevention strategy
throughout later life,” said Dr Lennon.
The study also found that the effect of the antihypertensive medication did not significantly diminish in older participants.
“This is an important result as studies
often have difficulty including participants over the age of 80. Our study, incorporating a collaboration of researchers from all around the world and a large number of older participants,indicatesthatevenaspeopleenter
their 80s there are still associations between antihypertensive use and reduced risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
“Clinicians should consider this when balancing the risks and benefits of stopping medication in older patients,“ said Dr Lennon.
The study also found that the effect of antihypertensives for Alzheimer’s disease were not significantly different between males and females or those from different ethnic backgrounds. Populations in developing countries have been historically underrepresented in medical research and our study importantly included large numbers of participants from Nigeria and the Republic of Congo, amongst other diverse nations.
“The largest growth of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease cases over the next few decades is going to come from the developing world and as such it is important that we understand whether prevention strategies that are effective in one nationality or country are similarly effective in others.“
This study is part of the research that has emanated from the international COSMIC consortium that currently comprises 57 cohort studies from 39 countries and is supported by a grant from the National Institutes of Health, USA.
Professor Perminder Sachdev of CHeBA, UNSW, who leads this consortium added:
“Over the next 30 years the number of people living with Alzheimer’s disease around the world is likely to more than double to over 130 million people. Hypertension, a common contributor for dementia, may be undiagnosed in over two thirds of patients with the disease.”
“Treating this often silent but deadly illness will be crucial in tackling the pressing crisis we are seeing with increasing rates of dementia,” said Professor Sachdev.
FEDERALELECTIONSURVEY
What issues matter most this Federal Election in suburban Australia?
As one of the largest publishers of independent community news in Victoria, Star News Group is conducting this simple survey to gauge community sentiment around the forthcoming federal election.
Please take 5 minutes to have your say and be part of this important conversation. The results of the survey will help us gauge the appetite of readers toward the forthcoming Federal Election and we will share results with our readers.
You can either fill in the survey below and email in or complete the survey online (Simply scan the QR code below)
1. What do you see as the single most important issue in the upcoming federal election?
8. Regarding immigration policy, do you believe the next government should:
Increase immigration
Reduce Immigration
Keep it about the same
9. At this point are you more likely to vote for:
2. Please select the top 5 of the following issues that are "Extremely Important" to you:
Electricity Prices
Climate Change Policies
Inflation (Cost of Living)
Health Services
Immigration and border control
National roads and rail infrastructure
Water infrastructure
Broadband interenet access
Please specify:
3. Please select the top 5 of the following issues that are "Least Important" to you:
Electricity Prices
Climate Change Policies
Inflation (Cost of Living)
Health Services
Immigration and border control
National roads and rail infrastructure
Water infrastructure
Broadband interenet access
Please specify:
4. Which is more important to you?
Cheapest electricity possible
Reducing carbon emissions
5. Do you support nuclear energy in Australia?
Yes No
6. Would you support a nuclear plant in your local area?
Yes No
7. Where would you most like to see a local increase in federal funding, and why?
Local hospitals
Local national highways
Local infrastructure project Defence
Other
Once completed, please scan or photograph your completed survey and email to:
A major party (Labor or Coalition)
A minor party
An independent
10. On a scale of 1 to 5, (5 the highest), how significant do you think the influence of social media is on public discourse and political decisionmaking in Australia?
1 2 3 4 5 Why?
11. On a scale of 1 to 5, (5 the highest), how concerned are you about global security currently?
1 2 3 4 5 Why?
12. On a scale of 1 to 5, (5 the highest), how concerned are you about housing affordability in your region?
1 2 3 4 5
13. In your opinion, how important is improved national road and transport infrastructure in your region?
1 2 3 4 5
14. What specific infrastructure projects do you believe should be prioritised in your region?
15. Are there any other local or regional issues that you feel are not getting enough attention in the federal election campaign? Please share your thoughts.
16. What age group do you fall into? 0-25 26-40 41-60 61-75 Over 76
First Name: Last Name: Daytime Contact Phone No:
Thank you for completing the survey. We really appreciate your support and value your opinion - Star Weekly Team
words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural nouns ending in “s”.
10 words: Good 15 words: Very good 21 words: Excellent Today’s Aim:
3 LETTERS ATE AVO
1 What was the name of the yacht with Australian connections that won the America’s Cup in 1983?
2 The Cole Porter song You’re TheTop is from which 1934 musical?
3 Which insects are the larval forms of members of the order Lepidoptera?
4 From which region are the 12 astrological signs derived?
5 Which 1996 film featuring Tom Cruise (pictured) features the famous line, 'Show me the
6 Which actor played James Bond in From Russia with Love?
7 Where was the Marxist revolutionary Che Guevara born?
8 In which year was the Sydney Opera House opened?
9 In which state is the city of Bunbury located?
10 Which angel appeared to Mary during the Annunciation?
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
Dromkeen Art Show
Dromkeen Gallery in Riddells Creek is hosting an art show titled The Wonder of Nature from April 12–27. More than 30 recognised and emerging regional artists will be exhibiting a range of mediums, from water colour paintings through to indoor and outdoor sculptures. The event will raise funds for the family-owned gallery and bookshop.
Kathy, 0403 332 344 or kmedburyart@gmail.com
Young Voices of Macedon
A community choir for children of the Macedon Ranges and beyond, Young Voices of Macedon rehearses at the House of the Rock, 247 Station Road, New Gisborne. The choir has separate programs for young children aged five to eight and older children. Rehearsals assist children in developing vocal technique, part singing skills, and general musicianship, across popular, classical, folk and music theatre styles. Rehearsals run on Thursdays, from 4.15pm, with afternoon tea and play time.
yvmacedon.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
Macedon Ranges Photographic Society
Are you into photography, just starting out, or a fully fledged professional? The Macedon Ranges Photographic Society is your local camera club for friendship, photographic outings, workshops, guest presenters, competitions and more. Come along to a meeting on the first and second Monday of the month. Doors open at 7pm and the meeting starts at 7.30pm at Jubilee Hall, 52 Smith Street, Macedon.
www.macedon-ranges-photography.org. au, or info@macedon-ranges-photography. org.au
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 is also offering tuition for learners of all ages.
Hank, 0412 160 576, nwd.pipeband@ gmail.com, or https://www.facebook.com/ NorthWesternDistrictPipeBand?mibextid= ZbWKwL
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. The
club is temporarily located at 531 Elizabeth Drive, Sunbury while construction on a new venue is underway. 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
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
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
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
Sunbury Ladies Badminton Club
Sunbury Ladies Badminton Club invites women to be part of Sunbury Ladies Badminton Club and enjoy the benefits of physical activity combined with socialisation. Social games are held every Thursday morning, excluding public and school holidays, from 10am–12pm at
This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Sunshine Eagles’ Scott Maore in action against Doncaster in the Victorian Summer Baseball League. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 462169_01
the Eric Boardman Stadium in Wilsons Lane, Sunbury. You are also welcome to sign up to be part of a team, also playing each Thursday morning. Equipment and coaching is provided.
sunburylbc@gmail.com
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
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
VIEW Club
Sunbury-Macedon Ranges VIEW Club is a friendly women’s organisation and a valued part of The Smith Family. It meets on the third Friday of each month at 11am at Club Sunbury, Riddell Road, Sunbury. New members warmly welcome
Lee-anne, 0403 047 909
Sunbury Art Society
The Sunbury Art Society meets every Friday and Saturday, from 10am- 3pm, at the Boilerhouse, Jacksons Hill, to paint or draw over a cuppa with other like minded people. New members welcome.
Ken, 0407 062 568, or Yvonne, 0429 994 828
Enjoy a taste of Europe in Melton
Take your tastebuds on a tour through Europe at the Melton Night Market on March 7.
The Melton Town Centre Amphitheatre will come alive with live music, traditional performances, market stalls and mouth-watering European cuisines.
Food vendors will be serving up Greek, Italian, Polish, German, Dutch and French dishes ranging from easy to eat street food to delectable desserts.
Sanacori Italian Trio will entertain market-goers with traditional Italian music andtarantelladancingat5.15pm,beforeDance Creations brings the glamour and allure of the
Moulin Rouge to the stage at 6.15pm.
David Smile will lead an interactive Latin dance workshop at 6.45pm, while Manasis Dance School will showcase traditional Greek dancing at 7.30pm.
Authentic Oompah band, Schunkel Band, will round out the live entertainment with a lively blend of traditional German Oompah music with tuba, accordion, and spirited vocals at 8.15pm.
Melton mayor Steve Abboushi said the night market is a fantastic way to celebrate the municipality’s diversity.
“Immersing ourselves in other cultures and
traditions is the best way to learn and build respect for one another,” Cr Abboushi said.
“Mark your calendars and join us in celebrating the shared joy of diversity through food, music, and culture.”
An Oceania theme will cap off the night markets on Friday, April 4, with Polynesian dancing including the Haka and Hula, and more amazing cuisines to try.
Each market will run from 5pm to 9pm. Details: melton.vic.gov.au/night-markets
Artist’s first exhibition on display
A local artist has taken the plunge into the creative world, with his first exhibition officially on display in Deer Park.
William Micallef’s paintings are on showcase at the Hunt Club Community Arts Centre for all residents to enjoy.
Micallef said his first exhibition was about “finally taking the plunge” and getting his work out there to “test the waters” about his artwork.
“I basically want to get some non-biased feedback from the public,” he said.
“It would be interesting to know what the general public thinks.”
As someone who was hesitant to show his work, Micallef hopes his exhibition will inspire other artists.
“It is a privilege to put my work out there for Brimbank residents to enjoy,” he said.
“I never thought it would get this far as I started painting for the joy of it and never really expected to reach an exhibition stage.
“So, my message to other artists is to keep
doing what you love and you never know what it could turn into.”
Micallef is also hoping viewers will acquire a new perspective on art ownership.
“People who look through my exhibition will perhaps consider buying an original piece of art, next time they are thinking about getting a picture for the wall instead of a mass produced print,” he said.
“They would then have something unique.”
Micallef’s exhibition will be on display at the centre until April 4.
The tale of two Altona nurses to be told
The Louis Joel Arts and Community centre (LJAC)inAltonaisanappropriateplaceforthe new play Ivy and Sylvia to be performed.
Not only is it a production by Altona-based theatre company Dramawerkz, but Louis Joel sits on the site of the old Altona District Hospital where the two nurses the play is based on, Ivy Weber and Sylvia Koch, once worked. And as Dramawerkz chief executive and Ivy and Sylvia writer and performer, Mia Boonen explained, being given a working space at the LJAC was how she found out about them.
“Last year the final medical centre parts of the Louis Joel centre were given back to the community and we (Dramawerkz) were given a room in the centre and decided to explore its past and all the kind of ghosts that might be there,” Boonen said.
“Weheardfromthepathologyclinicthatthe
old matron haunts the hallways. We started to look into
Hume teen’s first exhibition
A Hume teenager will present a solo exhibition in Mount Macedon, presenting works across a range of media.
Presenting her exhibition titled, Visions Unveiled, at The Gallery Mount Macedon, 13-year-old Amaya De Silva will showcase a collection that demonstrates her skills across a wide range of media.
De Silva developed a love of art at a young age – particularly drawing animals – and was introduced by her mother to an art teacher who has tutored her over the past four years in oil painting, drawing, mosaic, and resin art.
She was introduced through her tutor to modern art movements like surrealism, abstraction, and pop art, with her upcoming exhibition demonstrating her perceptive understanding of art.
She thoroughly plans each artwork, with her preparation processes using small, fast sketches – then considering composition layout, conceptual meanings, and the appropriate medium before bringing her artwork to life.
Works presented in this collection were created by De Silva over the past few years.
Visions Unveiled will run from Monday, March 3 until Saturday, April 6, with an opening afternoon from 2–4pm on Saturday, March 8.
The Gallery is open from 10am–4pm from Friday to Tuesday at 684 Mt Macedon Road, Mount Macedon –behind Mount Macedon Trading Post.
Details: thegallerymtmacedon.com.au
The play is an imagined conversation between Ivy and Sylvia, and tells the story of two women with vastly different approaches to their shared goals: providing healthcare in Altona during a time of economic recession and prioritising women when many others refused.
“It’s a story about local history with a lot of themes that are still relevant now like women’s health care and community fundraising and shared resources,” said Boonen of the play whichhasapreviewperformanceonThursday, March 20, before its official opening night on Friday, March 21.
Ivy and Sylvia closes on Sunday, March 30.
Details: https://events.humanitix.com/ivyand-sylvia?discountcode%3DBUSHHOSPITAL1932 Cade Lucas
William Micallef’s first exhibition is on display at Deer Park. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 462161_01
Schunkel Band’s Phil Carroll and Stefan Grant. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 462085_01
Cast members Scarlett Rose (Ivy) and Mia Boonen (Sylvia). (Attie Mohebali) 457880_04
A work created by Hume artist Amaya De Silva this year. (Supplied)
If
application to obtain this material.
Case details
DATE THAT STATEMENT OF GROUNDS MUST BE RECEIVED BY VCAT 21 March 2025
VCAT reference numberP82/2025
Site address Lot 1, PS418190 Calder Freeway Frontage (west
(approx. 900 m north
NAME OF APPLICANT
CONTACT DETAILS FOR APPLICANT
Name of contact person and Telephone or mobile
NAME OF RESPONSIBLE AUTHORITY Macedon Ranges Shire Council
PERMIT APPLICATION NUMBER PLN/2023/353
Alternatively PERMIT TO BE CANCELLED OR AMENDED N/A
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF PROPOSAL THAT IS THE SUBJECT OF THIS APPLICATION
How does Honda Civic stack up?
By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring
Civic received a mild makeover towards the end of last year.
The refreshed model sees the sporty styling enhanced with a new front bumper and radiator grille that combined produce improved aerodynamics.
The previous petrol-powered entry model hasmadewayforthehybride:HEVL,powered by the same petrol-electric setup that powers the more expensive LX.
You might think Honda is a little late to the hybrid party, but along with Toyota was one of the pioneers of hybrid technology with the launch of the Honda Insight way back in 2001. The two-seat Insight with its wheel spats was Australia’s first hybrid, beating the Prius to market.
STYLING
Civic has become a large small car over the years, with plenty of legroom front and back. But it sits pretty low to the road and getting in and out could be an issue for older drivers.
The cabin has a more premium feel, compared to the hard plastics of the previous model, with a clever, long thin honeycomb grille that hides the air vents in front.
The plunging roofline makes rear access difficult so watch your head, but legroom is good and air outlets prevent it from becoming claustrophobic back there.
The deep luggage area provides reasonable storage space, with 409 litres of luggage capacity.
The refresh unfortunately comes with a price increase, making the Civic even more expensive.
Fortunately, it is limited to $900 and is the first increase since the introduction of the current model in 2022.
Civic comes in two flavours these days, both of them now hybrids.
There’sthe2.0e:HEVL,pricedfrom$49,900 and 2.0 e:HEV LX, priced from $55,900.
That still leaves the fire-breathing Civic Type R, priced from $74,100 - but that’s another story altogether.
These prices by the way are driveaway and non-negotiable, as part of Honda’s new sales strategy.
INFOTAINMENT
The infotainment system consists of the same smallish but functional 9.0 inch touchscreen as before.
It’s powered by a new Google-based operating system and includes built-in apps and services like Google Assistant, Google Maps and Google Play Store. It supports Bluetooth with audio streaming, AM/FM and
YOUR NEW CAREER
Star Weekly seeks an enthusiastic Full or Part time Sales Executive to work across our print, digital, social and online platforms.
DAB digital radio, wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto.
There are four USB-C ports plus 12 volt outlets in the front and luggage area, but this grade misses out on wireless phone charging.
A premium 12 speaker Bose audio system is standard in both grades.
Physical buttons are provided for such features as home and return, along with a volume knob.
SAFETY
The Honda Civic hybrid carries a five-star safety rating.
Both models feature 11 airbags, a reverse camera with guidelines and Autonomous Emergency Braking (Car-to-Car, Vulnerable Road User and Junction Assist).
It has dual frontal, side chest-protecting, and side head-protecting airbags are standard, as well as a driver and passenger knee airbag.
A centre airbag which provides added protection to front seat occupants in side impact crashes is also standard.
A lane support system with lane-keep assist (LKA), lane departure warning (LDW) and emergency lane keeping (ELK) and an advanced speed assistance system (SAS) are standard.
SUMMING UP
It’s good to see Honda has a game plan as the brands jostle to accommodate the arrival of the Chinese.
But the proof is in the pudding and the latest figures show that Honda is not one of the top 10 selling brands in Australia, nor does it have any cars in the list of top 10 selling cars.
To put this in perspective, Civic was once one of the best-selling cars in the world. It kind of suggests the sales strategy might not be working because what we’re left with is an expensive range of cars with no wiggle room - that can’t be good?
Star Weekly is an independently owned company which prides itself on its long history of community experience but also its investment in the future.
The successful applicant will need to possess good people skills to enable them to meet with local businesses to sell solutions through our advertising platforms to help promote their business.
Applicants will need their own reliable vehicle for which we will provide an allowance. The position is salaried, plus we offer an open ended commission scheme.
Send your application letter and resume to: Advertising Sales Manager, Mandy Clark mandy.clark@starnewsgroup.com.au www.starnewsgroup.com.au
Finals fever heats up in the west
Finals are heating up in some competitions, while seasons are coming to a close in other competitions and others just getting underway. Star Weekly photographer LJUBICA VRANKOVIC was out shooting some of the action.
Bacchus Marsh players wait in the dugout. 462439_15
Bacchus Marsh’s Justin Webster. 462443_01
Newport Rams celebrate their win. 462423_21
Spotswood’s Sandeep Mandalika. 462426_02
Newport Rams’ Tayla Wilmot. 462423_06
Darley’s Dilan Chandima. 462439_01
Newport Rams’ Hiro Kinjo. 462423_02
Hoppers Crossing’s Harshit Takkar. 462426_11
Werribee’s Chris Smithwick. 462443_04
Werribee players look over the bowls. 462443_11
Double grand final excitement for Lancefield
Lancefield will be painting the town yellow andblackaheadoftwoGisborneandDistrict Cricket Association grand finals being held in the town this weekend.
The Tigers first and third XIs both won semi finals on Saturday to win through to home grand finals on Saturday.
Tigers coach Alan Sinclair said it was a pretty special feeling for the club.
“It’s a pretty good feeling to have two home grand finals, it’s something that the club has never done,” he said.
“We had some good numbers watching the game and we’re expecting the same this week. It’s good for the club and the community.”
The Tigers, who finished on top of the Jensen Shield ladder, hosted Rupertswood in a semi final on Saturday with a spot in the grand final on the line.
Lancefield won the toss and decided to send Rupo in, which proved to be
the right decision. Rupo finished its 40 overs, 7-145.
Cameron Osmond took 4-19 off his eight overs to be the pick of the bowlers for the Tigers.
Sinclair said while they would have taken that total, it was one that you were still nervous about.
“We were 4-70 at one stage before we were able to get some runs at the end,” he said.
“We had a nice little partnership to get over the line.
Lachlan Mitchell finished 41 not out, while Sinclair was 40 not out at the end.
The win moves the Tigers into the grand final against Riddell.
The two teams finished equal on points and one win apiece against each other this season.
Sinclair said for many of the side it would be their first senior grand final.
“There’s four or five that have played in a
grand final before,” he said.
“The likes of Matthew Bowden and Luke Malone have played in a few.
“The younger group, it’s good for them to get that experience. I spoke with a few of them after the game to talk about it.”
Sinclair said he was expecting a good game in the grand final against the Bombers.
He said it would be a challenge.
“They have been the team to beat,” he said. “Wewilltakeitasitcomes.Hopefullywecan play our best cricket.”
The Tigers club north side won its semi final against Woodend to make it through to the grand final.
The Tigers made 5-266, with Woodend finishing 9-173 in reply.
They will play Gisborne in the grand final on Saturday.
Tara Murray
Bombers go into decider
By Tara Murray
Riddell was unsure what to expect this Gisborne and District Cricket Association Jensen Shield season, but making a grand final wasn’t among the thoughts.
The Bombers had been relegated after finishing bottom of the Johnstone Shield last season and were in the middle of a rebuilding phase.
Withafewplayerscomingbacktotheclub, the Bombers became one of the teams to beat this season.
On Saturday, they beat Harkness to win through to the grand final.
Coach Michael Day said they were quite excited to have made it this far.
“There’s a good feeling around the place,” he said. “We definitely could not have expected it.
“We couldn’t have hoped for anything better. If you had said that we would make finals we would have been pretty happy.
“I said to the boys at training, it’s already been a successful season with two sides playing finals.”
On Saturday, the Bombers were sent in on their home deck at Riddell Recreation Reserve.
They made 5-216 with all their top order making contributions. Luke Castle scored 66, while Matthew Darby made 64.
Day said they were happy with that total but were still wary of what Harkness could do with the bat.
“It’s a good score but our ground is nice to bat on these days,” he said. “Harkness was going along nicely.
“Their opening batter was batting well for quite a while. We were able to dig deep and it was nice to get the win on the board.”
Harkness was 2-107 before being bowled out for 185.
Hayden Castle and Harry Johnson took three wickets each for the Bombers.
With the match in hand late, the Bombers were able to give some others a go with the ball including 14-year-old Sophie Lindsay.
Day said Lindsay had played a good role around the club this year and deserved her opportunity to ball.
He said there would be some selection headaches on Thursday night ahead of the grand final.
“It will be a tough selection,” he said. “There’s some other names there that will be thrown in the hat.”
The Bombers will face Lancefield at Lancefield Park in the grand final on Saturday.
The two teams finished equal on points and one win apiece against each other this season.
Luke Castle. (Ljubica Vrankovic)
437915_01
Day said he was expecting a good grand final. Lancefield beat Rupertswood in the other semi final.
“They are a similar side,” he said, “They bat a bit and they bowl a bit with some good experienced heads.
Finals race set for close
The race for finals spots in the Gisborne and District Cricket Association McIntyre Cup will go down to the wire. Woodend and Gisborne seem set in the top two spots, while Romsey gave its hopes no harm with a big win against Broadford on Saturday.
Sunbury United moved into the top four with a win on Saturday against Macedon, while Rupertswood slipped to fifth after a loss.
Romsey and Sunbury United were the big winners out of the weekend’s matches.
Romsey had made 227 on day one of its match with Broadford.
On Saturday, Broadford never really got going with the bat as it struggled to put together some decent partnerships.
Despite some late hitting, Broadford was bowled out for 174. Jamie Taylor took four wickets for Romsey.
Romsey was 3-115 in its second innings.
Sunbury United came away with the points against Macedon in its match after a big first day with the bat.
Macedon pushed the total of 7-302 with import Alex Browne starring with 112 off 100 balls.
The Cats showed some resistance in the lower order, but were bowled out for 286.
Gary De Rosayro scored 66 not out coming in at number eight.
James Hughes took four wickets for the Bees.
Meanwhile, Rupertswood’s finals hopes suffered a blow with a loss to ladder leader Woodend.
Needing 206, Rupo was bowled out for 113. Cameron Bruce scored 51, with the next best 17.
Woodend finished its second innings at 3-160.
Rupo faces Gisborne in the final round and will now need other results to go its way to finish in the top four. In the other match, Gisborne had a dayoutwiththebatagainsttheSunbury Kangaroos.
The Kangaroos had made 172 on day one, with the Dragons batting throughout day two to finish with 425. Joshua Wills top scored with 83.
“Hopefully it’s a really good game.”
The Bombers club south side fell short to Harkness in the grand final on Saturday. Harkness made 9-213 with Riddell finishing 6-160 in reply.
Lancefield is into the grand final. (Supplied)
Aberfeldie teammates are Cannons co-captain
CalderCannonsco-captainsHamishBirdand Jackson Barber said they’re both privileged to lead the side in the Coates Talent League boys competition this year.
The pair were named co-captains with Hussein El Achkar named vice-captain of the squad.
Bird, who played the most games as a bottom-ageplayerfortheCannonslastseason, said it feels great to receive that honour.
“It’ssuchaprivilege,Icannotwait,”hesaid. “I found out last night [Tuesday night] and it was really good and the family was there once it was announced.
“My teammates and some of the coaches voted me in and it’s a privilege that they voted me in.”
Barber, who played six games last season, said he had been hoping to get into the leadership group.
“Last year I looked up to Damon [Hallow] and to be in the same position is unreal, it’s
such a privilege,” he said.
“He was a good leader and I thought we had a pretty good year. I wanted to get into the leadership group, but being captain is unreal.”
For the pair it continues a connection that started at their home club of Aberfeldie.
Both said they were great mates and had a good bond already.
Barber said they were both pretty vocal and would make sure they would get around their younger teammates.
Bird said they would all work towards team success.
Bird has been at the Cannons since under-16s and said he felt that he’d made inroads each season.
“The coaches have put in a lot of work with me and each year I’ve gotten better,” he said.
“Credit goes to them for what they have put into me.
“The second half of the season I was a lot
more confident with playing at this level.”
Both boys are keen to start the season well and be in the mix for Vic Metro selection.
Bird played in Vic Metro in under-16s before missing out last season.
“I’ll put my best foot forward and start strong and give myself the best opportunity to get selected for Vic Metro,” he said.
Barber shared a similar view and has set himself a target for the Cannons season.
“The first three games are the most important individually and as a team,” he said. “It’ll be nice to get a good start myself and hopefully start the year well.
“I will hopefully take the number tall forward this year as a key lock down defender. I can also be an intercept defender.”
The Cannons will have practice matches against the Northern Knights and Western Jets in the coming weeks.
Tara Murray
Kangaroos are on track
By Tara Murray
There’sarealhungerattheSunburyKangaroos heading into the Essendon District Football League division 2 season.
After making the grand final in 2023, the Kangaroos had a disappointing 2024 as they missed out on finals.
It was an interesting start to the off season for the Kangaroos with a number of players departing for new club, Gisborne Giants but things had settled and they were looking forward to the season getting underway.
Football manager Matthew Baird said the playing group had come back a little hungrier this off season.
“Anyone can win this division,” he said. “There’s always a frontrunner and it doesn’t take much to come back to the pack.
“We’re happy with where the club is at and we believe that we are heading in the right direction.
“We’re happy with how the list is and ready to get up and running.”
Baird said it had been a different off season withthedeparturesof10playerstotheGiants.
He said that you never want to lose players, but all left on good terms.
Baird said the departures would open the doors for other players to step up into the senior side.
“There’s some kids that will get a bit more opportunity,” he said.
“Guys like Moey Rexhep who played for me in the reserves will get a good go at senior footy.”
Baird said they had looked to add players to their squad that would be towards their top end of the list.
The Kangaroos have announced six recruits for this season, while a couple of players will return from injury after not playing much last year.
Former Victorian Football League-listed player Jayden Eales will add to the Kangaroos ruck depth.
His brother Riley Eales, joined the club last season, tore his ACL in the first 10 minutes of round one and will also be like a recruit.
“We’ve been chasing Jayden for a couple of years along with Riley,” he said. “He decided to give Kyneton another year.
Hawks building for the long term future
Woodend-Hesket is planning on making sure its playing finals football every season, not here and there in the Riddell District Football League.
The Hawks made finals for the first time in 14 years in 2023 and made the grand final, before finishing out of contention in seventh last season.
Coach Al Rae said while they were hoping they could have success this year, they were also focused on the future.
“We don’t want to have a spike every now and then,” he said. “We want to get in there continuously.
“As much as I want to do it in the short term, myself, the president and the committee want the best players for a sustainable future, not just this year.”
Rae said it had been a really good off season for the club with good numbers at training. The Hawks have signed eight new players.
“We’re looking quite strong,” he said. “We needed some depth but we also needed some top end talent.”
JackBinnshascrossedfromAberfeldie, while Brendan Butler and Matthew Doody are among those crossing from Strathmore.
“He wasn’t sure if he was going to play this year. Both are coming back from knee injuries and they are stepping it up with training.”
Baird said Will Direen, who comes from Heathcote is a ready known defender who can float through the midfield.
Brad Collins, who has played at RIddell, has joined the club along with Oliver Randall.
Connor Bowden joins his two brothers.
Baird said Andrew Siekai, who was hampered by a knee injury last season, would also be like a new recruit.
Youngster Sebastian Ellis has come up from the Kangaroos junior program and has impressed early on.
“There’s a couple who have come through who are driven to play senior footy,” Baird said. “They want to be there and will be pushing for senior selection.
“Seb has really impressed. Riley Draicchio has been awesome... Tyler Baba have been key pillars of our 18s want to play senior football.”
The Kangaroos will kick off their season against East Sunbury in a twilight match on April 5.
Mores premiership captain Sam O’Loughlin, who has been playing in the country more recently, has also come across. Rae, who is another former Strathmore player, said there were now 13 former Strathmore juniors at the club.
He said the likes of O’Loughlin and Butler would provide some much needed experience.
“Apart from one year when we made the grand final, the guys were really quiet,” he said. “Sam is a good leader, a little bit older. Brendan Butler will be vice-captain. He is really loud and vociferous. He’s an energiser bunny.”
Rae said while it was tough last year, it hadallowedthemtogetsomegamesinto players that would not have otherwise. He said this would mean this year they would have 25-30 guys playing for senior spots.
“There is a lot more competition for spots,” he said. “No one will be gifted games.”
Rae, now in his second season as coach, said he was a bit more confident with things and felt it would be a bit more polished this year. The Hawks have three practice games against Trentham, Glenroy and Rupertswood.
Calders Cannons’ vice-captain Hussein El Achkar, and co-captains Jackson Barber and Hamish Bird. (Supplied)
John Corso. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 409294_13
Macedon fires into GDCA women’s grand final
Macedon is hoping to add a third women’s premiership trophy to the cabinet this Sunday in the Gisborne and District Cricket Association women’s league.
Havingmissedlastseason’sgrandfinalafter losing a preliminary final last season, the Cats are back in the biggest game of the season.
Cats’ Kym Riley said they were pumped to have made the grand final again.
“It is a great feeling,” she said. “We’ve had two years out of the grand final.
“We are really excited to make it again where we will face Bacchus Marsh.”
On Sunday, the Cats took on Gisborne, which was hoping to make its first grand final since returning to having a women’s side.
The Cats batted first and made 3-179 from their 30 overs.
“We batted well,” Riley said. “Caity made 70 [retired not out] and we all chipped in similar to last week.
“We have worked on our batting the last
six games and we can see some really big improvements.”
It was all single wicket takers for the Dragons.
Riley said they felt they could defend that total with some really strong bowlers in the line up.
“We got some important wickets at important times,” she said.
“Hannah [Smajila] bowled Brianna [Woodburn] who has been amazing with the bat all season.
“It was the turning point of the match. We had tight fielding and were able to bowl them out for 106.”
Smajila and Amy Miles took two wickets each for the Cats.
Woodburn top scored with 29 for the Dragons.
The Cats will be aiming for their third women’spremiership.Theywontheirfirstwin in the 2021-22 season when they finished on
top of the ladder and the grand final was then washed out.
They went back-to-back and won the 2023-24premiershipbeatingLancefieldBlack.
Riley said it would be cool to have another premiership and would put them clear ahead with the most women’s premierships in the competition. She said about two-thirds of the squad had been around for the other premierships.
The Cats will face Bacchus Marsh in the grand final.
TheminorpremiersbeatDarleyintheother semi final.
Riley knows they will have to play well to beat the Bulls, who are aiming for their first premiership.
“Bacchus Marsh has been scoring over 200 regularly,”shesaid.“We’llaimtobataswellas we can and anything can happen.
“It will be a tight match.”
Sunbury couldn’t hold on
By Tara Murray
Club Sunbury was unable to deliver the magic twice as it fell short in the Bowls Victoria weekend pennant, division 1, section 1 grand final.
After upsetting Glenroy last weekend in the semi finals to make the grand final, Sunbury had to face Glenroy again in Saturday’s grand final at Lalor.
There would be no repeat of the semi final match, with Glenroy in front all day as it won 87 (16)-65 (2) win.
Sunbury’s David Glennon said it wasn’t the result they had been hoping for going into the match.
“It was a bit disappointing,” he said. “We were definitely confident that we could go all the way.
“We beat the same Glenroy side last week and the confidence was high.
“We were just beaten by a better team.”
Glenroy had dominated the two regular season matches between the two teams, not allowing Sunbury to claim a rink.
The semi final result made the finals more
interesting with Sunbury claiming a big win, with Glennon saying that the first finals win was a good result regardless of what has happened since.
He said Glenroy held a five to 10 shot lead all day on Saturday with Sunbury unable to get any closer.
Mark Cowan’s rink was the only winning rink, taking the win 18-14.
Marc Bullows’ rink lost 19-16, Lauchlin Daviesrinklost27-15andJoshuaLeszczynski’s rink lost 27-16.
Glennon said Cowan and Bullows were the standouts along with Bailey Moffatt, who was in Cowan’s rink.
It wasn’t all bad news on Saturday, as Sunbury’s second side won the division 3, section 1 grand final against Essendon.
Sunbury won, 83 (14)-77 (4) to secure promotion into division 2 next season. That side will start divisional finals this weekend.
Glennonsaidithadbeenareasonableseason with their division 2 side claiming the title, but it would have been nice if their division 1 was able to go one step further.
“We want to get into the premier reserve
Sports shorts
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It was a disappointing day for East Sunbury in the Gisborne and District Cricket Association Johnstone Shield on Saturday. Facing another top four side, Eastern Hill, the Thunder was chasing 9-204. The Thunder never got close and was bowled out for 109. Lachie Wilkins top scored with 37. Sent back in, the Thunder finished their second innings at 4-38. The Thunder sits in third spot and will remain in that spot no matter the results in the final round. The Thunder faces Wallan in a one-dayer in the final round. Diggers Rest Bulla also had a loss on Saturday, losing to Wallan.
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Malmsbury is through to the Gisborne and District Cricket Association Jensen Shield seconds grand final. Malmsbury faced Hanging Rock on Saturday in a semi final. Hanging Rock made 9-167 from its overs with Finlay Watt top scoring with 43 not out off 33 balls. Matt Cox took five wickets for Malmsbury. Malmsbury got the winning runs with two balls remaining, finishing 6-171. David Nolte top scored with 50 not out. Malmsbury will face Rupertswood in the grand final.
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division,” he said. “That division is really sought after.”
Meanwhile, Carla Krizanic won Sunbury’s women’s club championship, beating Sophie Kurzman in the final 25-22.
Elsewhere, Ballarat Highlands Bowls Region Highlands finals got underway on Saturday.
Kyneton became the first team through to the grand final in division 1, beating Romsey 80 (14)-56 (2).
For Kyneton, Gregory Podesta’s rink won 28-14 and John O’Donnell’s rink won 33-19. Aaron Young was the winning skip for Romsey.
Kyneton Golf won the knockout semi final, beating Kilmore in a thriller, 52 (13)-50 (3). Romsey bounced back in Sunday’s preliminary final, against Golf.
Romsey won 68 (16)-41 (0). Nick Lynch’s rink was the big winner, winning 22-8.
In division 2, Woodend will face Kyneton 2 in the grand final andindivision3,MtCottrell will play Kyneton 3.
The division 2 and 3 grand finals will be played on Saturday and the division 1 grand final on Sunday.
Sunbury finished the Victorian Turf Cricket Association Steve McNamara Shield season with a win on Saturday. Facing West Newport, the Roar’s bowlers got the job done as West Newport was bowled out for 96. Kyle Corcoran took three wickets. It wasn’t all smooth sailing for the Roar, but it got the job done, finishing 6-99. Riley Draicchio top scored with 33. The Roar finished the season in sixth spot, with four wins. FOR MORE SPORT, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Sunbury & Macedon Ranges Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly
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Bailey Moffat. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 445373_14
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