Star Weekly - Sunbury Macedon Ranges - 23rd September 2025

Kangaroo great Anthony Stevens writes exclusively for Star Weekly

....SEE SPORT

Winning pies in the sky

Victory has never tasted this good.

Gisborne Bakery and Cafe are savouring the success after taking home a total of 11 medals at the Great Aussie Pie Competition.

The Gisborne hotspot took home four gold, four silver and three bronze medals for their tasty pies, all baked in-house by baker Kimthai Seang.

Winning gold included the bakery’s plain meat (mince), chilli cheese and jalapeno, chunky pepper, chunky cheese and bacon pies.

Second places went to its plain meat (chunky), chunky curry, mushroom, and cheese and bacon pies, while bronze medals were awarded to their chunky mushroom, curry, and pepper pies.

Mr Seang was thrilled by the massive success. “It’s so exciting, I’m very happy,” he said.

“We sent 11 types of pies, and we got four gold, four silver and three bronze.

“Thank you so much for all the support.”

Mr Seang said you should come and try the award-winning pies for yourself.

Tradie scam alert

A Melton man was charged with 30 offences after he allegedly scammed 10 victims, including a victim in Sunbury, in fraud related incidents over the last two years.

According to Victoria Police, the 37-year-old Melton man allegedly used fake names on various apps and websites toadvertisehisavailabilityasahandyman, including electrical, plumbing, gas and maintenance work.

Police allege he scammed 10 victims – by agreeing to carry out work, taking payments, and then not completing the job – between April 2023 and May 2025.

Police arrested the man on Watt Street in Spotswood, where he was working on a property, on Saturday, September 13.

Some of those incidents include:

• The man was hired for electrical work at a property in Diggers Rest on April 27, 2023. A 54-year-old woman paid him $550, but he allegedly left the property – with live wiring not secured – before finishing. He then failed to turn up again and refused to give the woman a refund.

• A 49-year-old man placed an advert on an app to get his new oven installed at a property in Tarneit in May 2023. The victim paid $690 upfront, but the man allegedly

failed to turn up and ignored messages asking for a refund. He was arrested in October in relation to this incident, and later charged with two counts of obtaining financial advantage by deception.

• The man claimed to be a plumber and carried out work on the bathroom at a property in Wyndham Vale on June 1 and July 9, 2023. The victim, a 31-year-old man, paid $4900 in total and was left with leaking taps. He allegedly threatened him when he asked for a refund.

• A 50-year-old woman contacted the man to carry out work on her shower at a property in Tarneit. She paid him $1000 up

front in August 2023, but he didn’t show up in October, continued to provide excuses and then allegedly blocked her number. He was arrested in March 2024 and later charged on summons but failed to appear before the court.

• The accused agreed to build a media wall at a property in Thornhill Park in April 2024. The victim, a 39-year-old man, paid a depositof$1250.Whenhefailedtoturnup, thevictimrequestedarefundandfoundhe was not associated with the maintenance company he claimed to be from.

 Continued: Page 6.

Gisborne Bakery and Cafe’s Kimthai Seang with one of his many award-winning pies. (Damjan Janevski) 503133_01

Town growth plans delayed

By Georgia Tacey

Northern Victoria Liberal MP Wendy Lovell is questioning the lack of action on two planning scheme amendments in the Macedon Ranges.

Macedon Ranges council adopted the Romsey Structure Plan and the Gisborne Futures Structure Plan in May 2024 and July 2024 respectively.

The Romsey plan would help guide and manage the sustainable development of the town, as it grows into a large district town by 2036.

The Gisborne plan would guide the future development of housing, transport, shops, parks, landscapes and infrastructure, as part of the wider Gisborne Futures

project.

Both structure plans were sent to Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny for approval, and requested an amendment to the Macedon Ranges Planning Scheme and changes to the Macedon Ranges Statement of Planning Policy to include Protected Settlement Boundaries for the Romsey and Gisborne settlements.

Mayor Dom Bonanno said council has been advocating to the state government for over 12 months for them to implement protected settlement boundaries for Romsey and Gisborne, which he called an important first step for both towns.

“Council has sent multiple letters on the matter, as indicated by Wendy Lovell MLC, and we received acknowledgement

from the minister in September 2024,” he said.

“It is frustrating watching a decision being made separately on the Amess Road Precinct Structure Plan in Riddells Creek, which council and the community had opposed, while we continue to await updates on our endorsed structure plans, which had extensive research and community consultation.”

Ms Lovell expressed her frustration with the lack of approvals to Ms Kilkenny in parliament.

“Planning in Victoria is becoming chaotic under the Allan Labor Government, which it totally failing to meet its own housing targets,” she said.

“The minister must stop the delay, pre-

Students celebrate thrifting success

Sunbury College Sunbury vocational major students have raised big in their environmental project.

The year 12 VM class put together a pop-up thrift shop for the second year running, with this year raising a total of $978 for their chosen charity, Very Special Kids.

Thisyearthepop-upstorewasbranded ‘Retro Revival’ with students developing the store’s new branding, workshopping

possible logo designs, slogans, and a store name.

Personal Development Skills classroom teacher Natasha Fella said the purpose of the project was to promote to students ways to reduce their carbon footprint and encourage the community to buy second-hand. The year 12 VM class reached out to staff and the wider student community to donate items that could be sold in the store.

“The stock management team sorted through donations and selected which items suited our brand and community, and items that we couldn’t use were donated to Vinnies Sunbury,” Mrs Fella said.

“Having developed a relationship with this local not-for-profit organisation already, with our students also volunteering weeks prior to gain valuable experience and knowledge that we could apply to creating our own store.”

Hume is a hot spot for animal cruelty according to RSPCA data

Hume has ranked high in Victoria for animal cruelty reports and animal seizures, according to RSPCA Victoria’s latest animal cruelty report.

The Hume LGA ranked third highest in the state for both animal cruelty and seizures, with 431 public reports of alleged cruelty made across the 2024-2025 financial year and 86 animals being seized or surrendered.

Statewide, more than 10,000 cruelty reports were lodged with RSPCA Victoria during the same period, with 1870 animals

seized or surrendered to the inspectorate, almost double the rate of a decade ago.

The most common cruelty complaint type statewide was animals lacking food, water or shelter, which surged 43 per cent to 7916 cases compared with the previous year.

Reports of underweight animals also rose by 22 per cent, with 3936 cases, while complaints relating to poor living conditions or grooming dropped slightly by 7.10 per cent.

RSPCA Victoria Chief Inspector Mi-

pare the planning scheme amendments, and establish an advisory committee to hear from experts and consult widely among the community regarding these proposals.”

A state government spokesperson said these requests from council are the first of its kind under the Distinctive Areas and Landscapes Program.

“We thank the Macedon Ranges Shire Council and the Romsey and Gisborne communities for their patience while we carefully work through the proposals,” the spokesperson said.

The Department of Transport and Planningisworkingtoprovidecertaintyaround the process to cater for the requests and is currently accessing both plans.

Malmsbury project recognised

Coliban Water has won big at the recent 2025 Civil Contractors Federation Victoria Earth Awards.

The water company took home top honours in Category 2 (project value $2 million to $5 million) for the Laanecoorie Water Tanks and Pump Station Project, delivered in partnership with Simpson Construction Company.

The awards, held on Friday, August 29, celebrated excellence in civil construction across Victoria. Coliban Water was also a finalist in Category 1 (project value up to $2 million) for the Malmsbury Reservoir Bridge Refurbishment Project, delivered with Civil and Earth Australia.

“It was a privilege to accept the award on behalf of Coliban Water, our contractors, and the entire team,” infrastructure manager Corey Bourne said.

“These projects reflect our commitment to delivering high-quality infrastructure that benefits our communities and customers.”

Coliban Water’s Malmsbury Reservoir Bridge Refurbishment Project was also a finalist in the up to $2 million category, showcasing a once-in-a-lifetime restoration of a treasured heritage asset.

Constructed in 1906, the 50-metre-long cast iron Warren Truss design bridge provides access to the reservoir’s dam outlet and tower – both listed on the Victorian Heritage Register. The upgrade included replacing the bridge’s foundations, repairing and refurbishing the steel structure, cast iron supports, and bluestone abutments.

In December 2023, the bridge was carefully removed in four 12-metre sections and transported off-site for restoration by Civil and Earth Australia. The rehabilitation was completed in October 2024 at a cost of $895,000.

Coliban Water worked closely with Heritage Victoria, DJAARA and other key stakeholders to ensure the integrity and cultural significance of the site were preserved throughout the works.

The award-winning Laanecoorie project has delivered a major upgrade to the raw water supply for the Laanecoorie Water Treatment Plant, securing a more reliable and higher-quality drinking water source for residents in the region.

chelle Green said cost of living pressures and worsening drought conditions were fuelling much of the animal neglect.

“While it’s frustrating to see malicious animal cruelty still occurring, our inspectors are seeing basic animal neglect much more often,” Ms Green said.

“In particular, reports of animals with insufficient food, water or shelter skyrocketed compared to the previous year, along with people really struggling to provide for the number of animals they have, including hoarding situations.

Mr Bourne said thanks to both Simpson Construction Company and Civil and Earth Australia for their expertise and collaboration.

“These projects are a testament to what can be achieved when we work together with our delivery partners and stakeholders,” he said.

“We’re proud to deliver outcomes that not only improve essential services but also protect our region’s heritage.”

Sunbury College students Monique and Georgia. (Damjan Janevski). 503208_01

School holiday fun found

TheschoolholidayprogramattheWoodend Neighbourhood House is packed with a wide range of activities designed to spark curiosity,creativityandconnection.

Across the two-week holiday, children will have the chance to take part in hands-on STEM challenges, including a Robo Explorer workshop for younger children and a LEGO robotics session for olderagegroups.

For those with a creative flair, there are art workshops ranging from zentangle pillowcase designs and paper-based sunshinecreationstooutdoorbug-building withnaturalmaterials.

Drama enthusiasts can explore improvisation, performance and even screenactingina workshop with Storyboard Drama Studios,whilelittleyogisareinvitedtojoin

Sarah from Shanti Studio for playful and relaxingyogasessions.

Woodend Neighbourhood House manager Melissa Baker said the program reflects the house’s mission to support children and families with fun and educational activities through the school holidays.

“It’s fantastic that we’re able to offer such a diverse program for the Spring school holidays,”shesaid.

“Whether your child loves science, art, performance or simply wants to try somethingnew,there’saworkshoptosuit.

“These activities are a wonderful way for children to learn, create, and connect with others in a supportive and welcoming environment.”

Programs cater for children from preschooltoGrade6,withplaceslimited.

Briefs

Home safety

Kyneton CFA is reminding the community to be safe when using wood fires after a recent structure fire on a rural residential property. The brigade recommends to place cooled ashes in a metal container with a lid, away from the house and garden; never discard ashes in plastic bins, cardboard boxes, or garden bed and to stir ashes to check for hidden hot spots before disposal.

Hume closures

Hume council has announced changes to services ahead of the AFL grand final eve public holiday on Friday, September 26. Hume’s customer service centres, libraries, global learning centre, community centres, youth centres, and early years services will be closed throughout the day. Library users can return books through after-hours chutes at Broadmeadows, Craigieburn and Sunbury. Residents can expect waste collection to continue as normal, but leisure centres will operate under reduced hours from 8am to 5pm. Hume’s tips and recovery centres will open from 8am to 4pm.

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Paul Canlan, who is hosting the drama workshops, and Woodend Neighbourhood House staff member Paula Crozier. (Damjan Janevski) 503936_01

Honouring police lives lost

By Sam Porter

The day the Tim Lewczuk bridge was renamed in the senior constable’s honour, thelatepoliceofficer’sparents,Richardand DotLewczuk,gatheredinagreenareaatthe bridge’sbase.

They said they were overcome with emotions.

“We did that there on the day with our other son and his children … and it was overwhelming,”Dotsaid.

“It’salwaystoughlosingsomebodybutwe wereveryproud,”Richardsaid.

Tim joined the police force in 1989, after

having worked various jobs, including as a maintenance fitter and a football fitness advisor.

“He came into our house one night and said ‘I’m going to join the police force,’ and that’sit,”Richardsaid.

On a Saturday night in 1997, Senior Constable Lewczuk and Senior Constable Kylie Towk pulled over a vehicle on the bridge over the Western Freeway, and parkedthepolicecarbehindit.

As Senior Constable Lewczuk was questioning the driver, another car crashed intothepolicecar.

Senior Constable Lewczuk was thrown

over the first car onto the highway below, andtragicallydiedatthescene.

It was the day that changed the family’s livesforever.

RichardandDotsaidtheywereemotional after learning Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson and Senior Constable Vadim de Waart-Hottart were shotandkilledinPorepunkahlastmonth.

“For anyone that’s lost somebody while they were on duty, it brings it all back.,” Dot said.

“Time goes on and you have to learn to live with it. It never goes away, and things likethatbringitalltothefore.”

Dot said National Police Remembrance DayhelpsTim’slegacytoliveon. “It just means that he’s never forgotten,” shesaid.

ANationalPoliceRemembranceday/Blue Ribbondaymemorialservicewillbeheldat ClubItalia,128-152FurlongRoad,Sunshine, onThursday,September25at11am.

National Police Remembrance Day will beobservedonMonday,September29,with moreservicesbeingheldacrossthestate.

Donations to the Victoria Police Legacy remembrance fund for families of Porepunkah tragedy can be made here: https://www.policelegacyvic.org.au/ Volunteers

Energy grants are speaking your language

Over 150 multicultural and vulnerable senior citizens in the Sunbury area will havebetteraccesstoarangeofpersonalised support services thanks to a $10,000 grant fromenergyprovider,Jemena.

The funding was awarded to the Sunbury Multicultural Resources Hub, which will be used to pilot a community-based outreach and support program for over 150 multicultural and vulnerable seniors in Sunbury.

The initiative will improve access to aged care and welfare services, reduce isolation, and build confidence through information

sessions, welfare checks, and one-on-one support.

HubdevelopmentofficerShammiParekh said the organisation was grateful for the fundingboost.

“This grant will make a profound difference to the lives of seniors across Sunbury and surrounding areas. At MulticulturalResourcesHub,ourmissionis toclosethegapsthattoomanyolderpeople face in accessing My Aged Care and vital communitysupport,”shesaid.

“This grant enables us to reach seniors fromallwalksoflife,celebratediversityand

provide the connection, care and resources they need most. Together, we are building a stronger, more inclusive community where everyseniorfeelsvaluedandsupported.”

Now in its seventh year, Jemena’s Community Grants Program has already provided about $870,000 in funding to 85 communitygroups.

For its second round of grants in 2025, Jemena invited applications for initiatives that address disadvantage from not-for-profit organisations, schools, and charities. This year, 16 community groups willshareinover$163,000offunding.

Helping hand in Kyneton

Kyneton is once again showing the power of community, as it prepares to welcome a refugee family from overseas.

Friends of Refugees Kyneton is a dedicated volunteer group partneringwithCommunityRefugee Sponsorship Australia to support this family as they begin their new lives in Australia.

These families have already been processed by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees and the federal government. They willarrivewithpermanentresidency visas,readytocontributeandrebuild their lives in the local Kyneton area. FORK is here to ensure a soft landing. That means more than just help with transport, housing, and essential services — it means friendship, connection, and the support that truly makes a place feel like home.

FORKwillbehostingamovienight fundraiser on Saturday, October 4at 6pm to kickstart the group. Happening at the Social Foundry in Kyneton, catch a showing of the beloved Australian comedy, The Merger, which follows the heart-warming story of a struggling footy club that finds hope, mateship and fresh talent in an unlikely group of new arrivals.

Currently, FORK is run by a small team of six passionate volunteers, andtheywelcomeanyoneinthelocal community interested in joining the team and helping the cause.

Those interested can volunteer, provide goods to help set up a home for new arrivals, or make a financial contribution to help cover essentials.

Fundraiser: https://shoutforgood. com/event-ticketings/the-mergerfundraiser-movie

Details: facebook.com/ groups/1167384015227445

Tradie scam alert as Melton man faces 30 charges including fraud

 From page 1.

• The man was paid $700 to install some lighting and an air-con unit at a property inSunburyinApril2024.Whenthevictim, a 32-year-old man, questioned the work, he allegedly demanded an immediate payment and threatened to rip the work out. The air-con unit had no safety switch and wiring was left exposed. The 37-year-old man was charged in relation to this incident in November 2024 but failed

to appear before the court.

• The accused then agreed to construct a pergola and decking area at a property in Diggers Rest in June 2024. He began the work, and the 44-year-old victim made several payments – just over $10,300 in total. He then allegedly left the property without completing the work and stopped responding to messages.

• The man responded to an advert for work to construct a wheelchair ramp at a propertyinWyndhamValeinAugust2024.

The victim, a 52-year-old woman, paid a deposit of $500. He allegedly claimed he was building the ramp off-site and demanded further payments before the work was completed. The victim paid the remaining $500 and the accused allegedly failed to show up and complete the work.

• In March 2025, a 37-year-old man was quoted $300 for work to mount a projector on a wall at a property in Tarneit. The man allegedly started to drill holes in the wall, then left the work unfinished. When he

returned to the property, he had a verbal altercation with the victim who refused to pay. Police were told he then stole the wall projector, valued at $1890. Hewasinterviewedbydetectivesandhas been charged with 30 offences, including obtaining property by deception, wilful damage, theft, theft of a motor vehicle and failing to appear on bail. He was remanded and will next appear at the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on September 30.

and community members at the Multicultural Resources Hub. (Supplied)

Boost for addiction care

Arrow Health’s rehabilitation clinic in Woodend has been expanded to help support more people in the region experiencingdrugandalcoholaddiction.

Health Minister and Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas, representing Regional Development Minister Jaclyn Symes, visited the clinic to unveil Belam Belam, the new inpatient addiction rehabilitationfacility.

“The expansion of this clinic will make a real difference for those in my community struggling with drug and alcohol addiction – allowing them to seek the care they need, closer to home,” Ms Thomassaid.

Trentham

The new facilities have an additional eight beds and 55 staff for the care and treatmentofpatients.

Theupgradewassupportedbya$600,000 investment by the state government, with the $2.1 million expansion allowing Arrow Health to deliver more of its essential services to help people affected byaddictionandtheirfamilies.

“We’re continuing to support the health and prosperity of regional Victorians, providing investments to organisations like Arrow Health that deliver such importantservicesinlocalcommunities,” MsSymessaid.

The project featured the construction

of a rehabilitation cottage, upgrades to carparking and ambulance access, and the refurbishment of existing rooms, more than doubling annual in-patient treatment capacity to approximately 240 and out-patient care from 80 to approximately180patientseachyear.

The expansion has led to new jobs for doctors, nurses, therapists and facilities-support staff, and has allowed Arrow Health to boost the engagement of locally contracted allied health professionals, such as nutritionists and physical therapists, and support services infood,transportandmaintenance.

Arrow Health Private Hospital was

takes gold as a top tourist town

Honouringitscountrycharmandwarmth, Trenthamtookhomegoldasatoptourism townintheAustralianTopTourismTown Awards this month, making it the first in Victoriatoreceivethisrecognition.

Announced on Wednesday, September 3, Trentham won gold in the Top Tiny Tourism Town in this year’s Australian Top Tourism Town Awards – facing off against others including Robe in South Australia, Kalbarri in Western Australia, HuskissoninNewSouthWales,Stanleyin Tasmania,and1770inQueensland.

Trentham was selected following an application and promotional video –a collaboration between Destination CentralVictoriaandHepburncouncil.

Destination Central Victoria’s Madeleine Blake said that businesses, tourism operators, and the local Trentham community all combine to make Trentham “such a wonderful place tovisit”.

“The warm welcome, incredible food, shopping, and retail experiences all ensure visitors want to return time and timeagain,”MsBlakesaid.

“I think it’s the community spirit that really shone through in the submission, and I’m sure that has contributed to Trentham being awarded the top prize,” shesaid.

“Trentham is well and truly in the spotlightnow.Beingapartoftheseawards providesanopportunitytohighlighttothe rest of Australia how amazing Trentham is, inspiring new visitors and providing those already familiar with Trentham [with]whytheyshouldvisitagain.”

Little Gallery Trentham member artist Rose Wilson said Trentham has that “typical old country feel with country hospitality”.

“It’s a beautiful, special place that has this warmth … people that come to the communityjustadoreitandfeelthatfrom the community and all the retailers,” Ms Wilsonsaid.

LocalTrenthambusinesseswereinvited to celebrate the award at Hotel Trentham onTuesday,September9.

Central

award. (Supplied)

Take up outdoor activities to boost mental health

A not-for-profit organisation providing outdoor adventure programs for people with mental health challenges is calling for participants from Melbourne’s west to attend its next event at the end of this month.

Out Doors Inc. is holding a convention in Raglan, near Beaufort, from Monday, September29toFriday,October3.

The convention will feature to a keynote speaker at each morning session from 9am to 10am from Tuesday to Thursday. Workshopswillthenbeheldfrom10.30am tonoon,beforeoutdooractivitiestakeover

theafternoonsfrom1pmto5pm.

Abseiling, hiking, rock climbing, rafting and cycling are among the outdoor activities offered at previous conventions, while creative programs like bush art and drummingarealsoavailable.

The aim is to boost the confidence and improve community and social connections for people living with, or at riskofamentalhealthcondition.

Participants must be aged 16 or older andactivitiesarecateredforallfitnessand experiencelevels.

Details:www.outdoorsinc.org.au/

foundedin2014,afternowchiefexecutive Toby Lawrence’s experiences with addictioninhisfamily.

The hospital clinic provides in-house care and treatment for patients experiencing addiction, out-patient follow-upcareandtreatment,andsupport andcounsellingforfamilies.

“The Victorian Government’s investment is an endorsement of our hard work transforming Arrow Health from a simple idea into a driving force behind addiction treatment — at the same time, it’s enabled us to tackle the complexities of addiction and mental health in a more sustainablemanner,”hesaid.

Ambulance Victoria is urging Victorians to update their asthma action plans as spring can be a criticaltimeforasthmaflare-ups.

AV emergency management directorDaleArmstrongsaidasthma affectspeopleofallages.

“While asthma can be life-threatening, for most people it can be well managed with a tailored asthmaactionplan,”hesaid.

“Every plan looks different but having one is essential to managing your condition and avoiding emergencycare.”

Key asthma triggers in spring include outdoor allergens such as pollen,dustandairpollution,aswell as thunderstorms. Indoor triggers suchasgascooktops,mouldanddust mitescanalsocauseareaction.

Asthma symptoms to look out for include wheezing, shortness of breath,coughingandchesttightness.

“It’s important to remember that even if your symptoms have disappeared for some time, asthma doesn’t go away – that’s why keeping your plan up to date is vital,” Mr Armstrongsaid.

“Your GP can work with you to revieworcreateaplan,soIencourage Victorians to book an appointment this spring and be proactive in managingtheirasthma.”

Adults’ asthma plans should be updated at least once a year, while children’s plans should be reviewed everysixmonths.

It is possible for people to experience asthma for the first time as an adult. If you notice persistent hay fever or allergy symptoms like a runny nose or itchy eyes this spring, speak with your GP about treatment options.

“Taking preventative action not onlyhelpsavoidasthmaemergencies but also eases pressure on our busy healthsystem,”MrArmstrongsaid.

“Remember to always follow your action plan but if you are having difficulty breathing and your relievermedicineisnotworking,call triple-0.“

If you’re worried about your asthma symptoms but it’s not an emergency, there are a range of urgent healthcare options available, including accessing the Victorian Virtual Emergency Department (VVED), visiting an Urgent Care Clinic, calling Nurse-On-Call and visiting a GP or pharmacist who can providetimelynon-urgentcare.

Participants abseil at an outdoor convention for people with mental health challenges run by not-for-profit Out Door Inc. (Supplied)

Destination

Victoria’s Andrea Pribaz, Annissa While, and Madeleine Blake celebrating the

Name rises to top

By Georgia Tacey

Sunbury’s upcoming arts and cultural precinct has a new name ahead of its opening.

Artrise – Gather, Connect and Create on the Hill is the new identity for the Jacksons Hill site, where buildings 22 and 24 are being transformed into a hub for arts and culture.

The new name and byline were adopted by Hume council at its September 8 meeting, and was chosen for its strength, simplicity and symbolism, representing the rise of creativity, community, and new beginnings on the hill, council said.

Council said community engagement was undertaken to establish the new name, including collaborating with local creative groups, advisory board members, and the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation.

“The name Artrise is a powerful reflection of the community’s vision for Jacksons Hill. It speaks to creativity, connection between the many groups who will collaborate at the space, and a new beginning for what is a historically significant site in Sunbury,” mayor Jarrod Bell said.

“Most importantly, this new name and the precinct’s future has been shaped by everyday community members who will help bring it to life.”

Cr Kate Hamley said the naming marks a significant milestone in the development of this project.

“As the broader arts and cultural precinct on Jacksons Hill continues to evolve, a formal place naming process through Geographic Names Victoria will be undertaken,” she said.

“This process will take 12 to 18 months and will involve further involvement with the broader community, so if you’re not in love with the name just yet, you’ll get a chance to express that.”

Council will now initiate the approval with Geographic Names Victoria for the change, however council noted that the proposed community-led incorporated body, once established for the site, will

Volunteers needed to keep food flowing

Kyneton Foodbank is looking for more volunteers to help meet the growing needs of the Kyneton community.

The foodbank is only one part of the organisation, with the service operating an op shop, drop in space, soup kitchen and crisis relief for people in the Macedon Ranges

Manager Grant Harper said anyone who wants to help and volunteer is welcome.

“There’s a number of areas we have; the foodbank itself, the soup kitchen, the sorting area and there’s the op shop at the front,” he said.

“There’s a number of areas where peo-

ple may prefer to work and we’re basically wanting to populate the organisation with volunteers.”

Across the foodbank’s many areas, Mr Harper says there’s bound to be a role that would suit just about anybody.

Mr Harper said the foodbank has about 1000 people on the books who receive help in Kyneton, so volunteers and donations are always needed to ensure the foodbank and its other services run.

“We accept donations of food, and for the op shop we accept donations of clothes,” he said.

Details: www.tkc.org.au/

determine its own name and branding at their own pace and time.

Cr Sam Misho took issue with this however.

“I just want to make sure that the name we’re endorsing today remains to be the centre of the facility and that it will not be reduced in its strength by the name of the community-led group,” he said. Artrise is set to open in late 2025.

Shape Hume’s next budget

Hume council is looking for ideas to be included in its next budget, and wants you to have your say.

In the 2025-26 budget, council included $742,000 to deliver some of the 108 ideas suggested by the community during the last community consultation.

Of those, six of the ideas council decided to fund are new initiatives, 28 ideas are already being supported through existing services, projects or programs, and 33 ideas will be considered when shaping future plans and priorities.

With planning already underway for council’s 2026-27 plans, this consultation will guide the services and projects it delivers in the next financial year to meet the needs of the community and achieve council’s priorities and strategic objectives. Any projects, initiatives or ideas that can be started in the 2026-27 financial year should be submitted.

Consultation is open now, for anyone who lives, works or plays within the municipality. Only one idea per individual or group is allowed.

Have your say by Friday, October 31 at noon.

Details: https://participate. hume.vic.gov.au/community-ideas-202627

ROADWORKS ONSUNBURYROAD

SunburyRoad

MelbourneAirportisupgradingSunburyRoad betweentheWildwoodRoadandOaklandsRoad roundaboutstosupportconstructionofthethird runway.WorksbeginSeptember2025andwill continueforapproximately12months.

Forupdatesanddisruptioninformation,visit MelbourneAirport’sMajorProjectsHubat www.melbourneairportprojectshub.com.au

Thankyouforyourpatienceaswebuild yourairport.

BUILDINGYOURAIRPORT

Mayor Jarrod Bell has welcomed the new name. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 455324_03

Kyneton Foodbank manager Grant Harper (front) with volunteers Dianne Nancarrow and Susan Hill and chef Jo Belcastro. (Damjan Janevski). 500558_01

Peace and empowerment

While Melbourne’s west and Congo DRC are thousands of kilometres apart, Weir Views-based charity Initiative for Peace and Development (IPD) is providing on-the-ground support for women, youth, and children in both as a catalyst for change. Oscar Parry spoke with one of its founders and directors, Amani Karumba, about the charity and its story.

Amani Karumba was just 11 years old when he and his family left the DemocraticRepublicoftheCongo–acountrythatheandhisWeirViews-based charityarededicatedtosupporting.

“I was with my family and we sought refuge in Malawi that is in East Africa, and then we resettled here in Australia – of course escaping from the conflict and instability that gripped the Eastern Congo,”MrKarumbasaid.

“Yearslater,Ifoundmyselfinanewhome ... in Australia, and I’d left everything, really, in Congo. But, after knowing … what’s going on … to my country … I’m determined [to make] a difference, and that is how I founded the Initiative for PeaceandDevelopment.”

Mr Karumba said he did not embark on thismissionalone.

“At my side was my wife Veronique, whose[unwavering]supportandvisionary ideas as well were very instrumental in shapingtheorganisation,”hesaid.

“My close friend as well – we are three directors – his name is Mamadou Kenda … heisoneoftheco-founders.He’sbeenwith me from day one. So, we’ve known each other since we were in Africa in the camp in Malawi ... we were [some] of the lucky ones, we actually found ourselves again here.”

I know we cannot help everyone in the world, but the little difference that we make, the better

The organisation provides programs and aid through offices in the Congolese cities of Bukavu and Goma, along with local initiatives in Melbourne’s west from its WeirViewsheadquarters.

“We’ve been a little busy … the project that we are doing right now is with the situation in Congo at the moment, the population is in dire need of medical [support],”MrKarumbasaid.

“Because of the war that we’ve had … for the past 30 years – and it’s actually intensified in January – there is so much need in terms of medical [support]. There’s really not enough medical equipment or medical help in …Congo … especially in GomaandBukavu,”hesaid.

“We are on a mission to send medical equipment to these areas. We’ve been going around and asking for donations: either clothes, shoes, stationary, and … generalmedicalequipment.”

Mr Karumba said the organisation focuses on creating evidence-based programs that address “the most pressing needs of the marginalised communities – mostly women, children, refugees, and those actually persecuted of their religion, sexuality,andethnicity”.

“One of our core initiatives is promoting health and wellbeing. So, coming from DRC, we understood that access to healthcare is one … of the most pressing needs in many Congolese communities. So, through our organisation, we try to provide essential medical support including maternal and child health services, [and] health education efforts as well,”MrKarumbasaid

“On another level as well, [is] education – so, we believe that education is key to empowerment. So, with IPD, we created education programs that offer resources,

training, and scholarships to children, youth,andwomen.”

The organisation also runs a small trainingcentreinGoma.

“We actually train youth on computer skills, which really helps them for the future,” Mr Karumba said. “Women who have been sexually assaulted – but also former … wives of soldiers that we train as well in sewing. So, this helps them to deal with…everydaylife.”

IPD also provides child protection services, which according to its website, focus on preventing abuse, supporting childrenatrisk,andadvocatingforpolicies thatprotectchildren’srightsandfutures.

“AttheheartofIPDswork,there’sactually a deep commitment to safeguarding vulnerablechildren,whichmanyinCongo … face abuse, exploitation, and neglect,” MrKarumbasaid.

Its other services include women’s empowerment and gender equality initiatives, refugee and displacement support, and community development programs.

Thousands of kilometres away In Melbourne’s west, the group continues withitssupportforyouth.

“We try to engage them into different activities … there’s a lot that has been happening in the past three months … it’s been a very tough year for the Congolese

community where we’ve lost almost five youth in ways that are unimaginable,” Mr Karumbasaid.

“We try to bring them closer to our culture, to think about where they came from. So, we engage them into … sports, musicaswell…justtoreallytrytogetthem off the streets and to do something better forthemselves.”

Last month, IPD and two other organisations – ASPYA Foundation and RedseaMedia–hostedafundraisingevent calledtheAfricanUnityFundraiser.

The event included Congolese and Sudanese music, dance, and food to raise fundsforprovidingaidinbothCongoDRC andSudan.

“These we actually help just to bring … youth together – be it Congolese, be it Ethiopianyouth,beitSudaneseyouth–so, we were all together and we … became as onecommunity,”MrKarumbasaid.

“We are working hand-in-hand with so many other organisations just to bring the African-Australian youth together, trying tohelpthemin…thebestwaywecan.”

Part of the funds raised by the organisations from this event went to delivering 120 school kits – including school bags, books, rulers, and pencils –to students in Goma on Saturday, September13.

The group also partners with Rotary

Caroline Springs on youth and family violencepreventionprograms.

Reflecting on the results of IPD’s efforts, MrKarumbasaidthatheisoutofwords.

“I’m really out of words. Because when I startedthis,Iwasn’tsure,”hesaid.

“Everything we do is step-by-step, and I think we are going in the right direction. I knowwecannothelpeveryoneintheworld, but the little difference that we make, the better. So, if I help one person today, that person as well might help another person, andso,weareputtingsmilesback[on]alot ofyouth,alotofkids.”

He said he looks forward to doing “even biggerthings”.

“We are living in a very, very good country.Thebestcountryintheworld.And so sometimes we take things for granted, but outside there, there are people who do not have what we have – not near … this is the opportunity we are trying to take by bothhandsandhelpthosethatwecan.”

The group is currently fundraising to cover the expenses of shipping medical equipment – including electric hospital chairsdonatedbyMelbournehospitals–to CongoDRCinDecember.

Mr Karumba said he encourages anyone who would like to donate money towards the shipment, clothes, shoes, or stationary tocontacttheorganisation.

Details:ipdevelopment.org

- Amani Karumba

A group of students receiving the school kits in Goma, Congo DRC, on Saturday, September 13. (Pictures: Supplied)

Initiative for Peace and Development’s Amani Karumba, Veronique Karumba, Mamadou Kenda, Christina Butunga, and Ajab Ndule. (Damjan Janevski) 493314_01

Energy savings for homes

By Jack O’Shea-Ayres

Hume residents are celebrating a year of big savings and greener homes as council’s award-winning home energy upgrades program marks its first anniversary.

Since launching in September 2024, the program has delivered energy upgrades to over 300 homes across the municipality, with 195 concession households receiving additional council rebates on top of state and federal government incentives, according to coun-

cil. The upgrades are expected to prevent more than 10,000 tonnes of carbon emissions over their lifespan, mainly through solar and electric appliance installations, alongsidefurtherreductionsfrominsulation and draught-proofing, council said.

For households which switch entirely to electric appliances and ditch gas, the benefits are expected to extend beyond the environment, with concession families are projected to save an average of $1410 a year on energy bills.

The program gives residents access to

rooftop solar, solar batteries, reverse cycle heating and cooling, heat pump hot water systems, induction cooktops, insulation, and draught proofing.

Participants are also eligible to receive free home energy advice, quotes from accredited suppliers, and tailored support to navigate rebates.

For Greenvale retiree Robert, the program made going solar a possibility.

Robert and his wife recently installed a 4.95kW solar system, receiving a council rebate as well as state government support.

Budburst is back in the Macedon Ranges

Wine makers are preparing for another busy weekend when Budburst return to the Ranges.

For one weekend only in November, cellars across the Macedon Ranges will open their doors for a once-in-a-year chance to see behind the scenes.

Step behind cellar doors, take a peek behind the labels of your favourite wines and taste and sip to your hearts content.

Over two festival days, more than 20 winemakers across over 15 Budburst venues will open their doors, to offer wine tastings, varied food and entertain-

ment offerings, while sharing their stories. From established icons to hidden gems, Budburst is all about connectionbetween the makers, the wines, and you.

Budburst will be taking place on Saturday, November 15 and Sunday November 16.

The festival will run from 10am to 5pm both days, with tastings, curated food menus, and the chance to chat directly with the winemakers at every stop.

The festival will also be running hop on hop off buses at all the festival stops on the Saturday, with limited availability

on the Sunday.

On Saturday, buses will take ticket holders directly to cellar doors across the Macedon Ranges, allowing festival goers to visit up to five Budburst venues, with six plus wineries on each loop.

Alternatively, a number of local wine tour companies have bespoke options for festival goers to choose from, or if you want to plan your own trip, a number of suggested self-drive itineraries are available online.

Tickets and details: budburst.com

“Seeing the council rebates for pension card holders was the trigger for us to register to get solar through the program,” Robert said.

“That upfront discount to bring down the cost was critical.”

The program has been hailed as a model for reducing household costs and emissions.

Residents have the chance to learn more about upgrades and rebates, with events scheduled in Sunbury on Saturday, October 25, and in Broadmeadows on Tuesday, November 11.

Community Bank Gisborne and District has invested $518,718 back into the southern Macedon Ranges, funding 46 projects over the 2024-25 financial year.

Chair of Macedon Ranges Community Enterprises Ltd, the social enterprise behind Community Bank Gisborne and District, Mal Carter celebrated the contributions made.

“In FY25, our total contributions since our branch opened in 2008 reached $4 million, an incredible milestone that has only been possible thanks to our amazing community – our shareholders who backed our community-built business from the beginning, our dedicated branch team who deliver legendary service every day and, most importantly, our customers who support their local community by banking with us.”

Some projects supported in the area during the financial year included the sponsorship of the Riddell District Football Netball League; an emergency generator for Bullengarook CFA; the Mount Macedon Anzac Day Dawn Service; and the Woodend Winter Arts Festival.

Many other initiatives across the Macedon Ranges are also supported by Community Banks in Lancefield, Romsey and Trentham.

Budburst is back this November (Chloe Smith Photography).

Trauma on Gamon Street

Williamstown amateur historian Barb McNeill is Star Weekly’s history columnist. This week she tells the heartbreaking story of a family tragedy that struck a Yarraville family in 1898.

Filicide, the crime of deliberately killingone’sownchild,is familiarto mostof us,thankstomediacoverage.

In the first 12 months of a child’s life, the killer is more likely to be the mother, but thelawallowsforthechargeofinfanticide, recognising the reality of post-natal depression or psychosis suffered by some women after giving birth. Apart from filicide committed because of mental illness, there are revenge filicides, mostly committed by fathers, and these are the oneswhichcreatethemostoutrage.

Filicide is not a modern phenomenonEuripides’s play Medea, written well over 2,000 years ago, has lost none of its power to horrify. Psychosis and vengeance are as oldashumanity.

In Yarraville, 1898 , the former tragedy struckanordinary,workingclassfamily.

At 5 am on Wednesday May 11, Gerald McCarthy, a 40 year old fireman at the YarravilleSugarWorks,lefthisneatGamon Street home for work, leaving behind his sleepingwife,Margaretandthreechildren, Alice, aged 9, Gerald aged 6 and Margaret, aged4.

This was the last morning that his life would everbedescribedasordinary.

McCarthy returned home at 2.30pm to an ominously silent home. Nobody answered his calls. Thinking that perhaps hisfamilywashavinganafternoonnap,he openedthebedroomdoortofindasceneof indescribablehorror.

His daughters were both dead, their skulls crushed to pulp. His son, barely alive, had also suffered fearful head injuries. His wife lay in a pool of blood, her throat slashed, her right hand clutching a double headed hammer, which McCarthy recognised as the one which he used to break up lumps of coal. Near her left hand washisrazor.

McCarthy raced to his neighbours for assistance. Senior Constable Rushford of the Yarraville Police attended the cottage and four detectives took statements from the neighbours. Nobody had noticed any strangers or heard any unusual noise. The McCarthy cottage was a cosy, workingclass home with well- tended vegetable gardens and its interior, apart from the blood-soaked bedroom, was spotless. Margaret McCarthy had once been in service to Governor Sir Henry Loch, and her marital home was as immaculate as the vice-regal rooms she had once dusted andpolished.

There was no sign of a break-in. The detectives concluded that Mrs McCarthy was responsible for the murders, though it puzzled them that if no burglar had enteredthehouse,whywerethehusband’s watch and chain missing? And where was MrsMcCarthy’sjewellery?

Rushford attempted to question Mrs McCarthy. All she could mutter was something about “skeletons in the cupboard”, but she did manage to say that nootheradulthadenteredthehouse.

AyoungFootscraydoctor,JamesRamsay Webb,examinedthe bodies andorganised transportforlittleGeraldandhismotherto Melbourne Hospital. He was sure that Mrs McCarthy was responsible for the deaths of her daughters and her own injuries. Dr Webb staunched her haemorrhages, noting bruises on her forehead , probably

inflictedbyhammerblows.

Mrs McCarthy regained consciousness after 6 pm when huge crowds from Footscray and Yarraville were milling aroundthehouse.

The distraught husband could only say that his wife had been a bit odd of late, complaining of headaches and exhibiting symptoms of confusion and forgetfulness since December. He had found bottles labelled ’Poison’ which actually contained medicine, and on her dressing table a box containing white powder, also labelled ‘Poison’. Rushford said it might be strychnine and removed it fortesting.

Gerald and his mother were driven to the Melbourne Hospital where the little boy died three days later. On Sunday May 15, the children’s funeral, with the three coffins lying in one hearse, was preceded by hundreds of pupils from St Augustine’s school and attended by thousands, including employees of the YarravilleSugarWorks.RequiemMasswas celebrated by the Rev. Father Maloney and the pall bearers included Senior Constable Rushford.

The inquest was held on 17 May. Margaret McCarthy left the hospital to attend, weeping piteously during the evidence.TheCourtwasgreatlyaffectedby her grief, and the distress of her husband who broke down several times as he gave evidencethathiswifenotonlycomplained ofheadaches,butbelievedthatpeoplewere

sneakingintotheirhometospyonher.

Dr Andrew Shields stated that Mrs McCarthyhadnomemoryofthefatefulday and was suffering dementia. In hospital, she had constantly asked for her children to visit, and Dr Shields was certain that she was genuinely unaware that they were all dead. As gently as possible he had told her shortly before the inquest what had occurred. She was stunned, disbelieving, horrified.

The witnesses spoke. Frederick Wren stated that the day before the tragedy, Mrs McCarthy had ordered a delivery of rabbit for the family dinner. She had seemed perfectly normal. Margaret Stanley of Smith Street had seen Margaret McCarthyhangingoutwashingat11.30am that morning. There was nothing odd about her. Mary Maher, the woman who had had the unenviable job of cleaning the blood-soaked bedroom, had found fragments of the missing watch and some broken jewellery under the washstand. No bloodwas oneither.Nothingelsehadbeen smashed.

Mr Keogh, the Coroner, stated that all evidence pointed to Mrs McCarthy as the perpetrator, and the jury had to return a verdict according to the facts adduced. The jury found that the children had died by wilful murder and a trial date was set for 15 June, 1898. Margaret McCarthy, still weeping bitterly, was taken to Melbourne Gaoltoawaithernextordeal.

On 19 July, 1898 in the Criminal Court,

Margaret McCarthy was charged with murder. The Prosecutor at once pointed out that the accused was unfit to plead and could not comprehend the court proceedings. The jury agreed. She was ordered to be detained at the Governor’s pleasureuntilshewasabletostandtrial.

There is no way of knowing the exact nature of this unfortunate woman’s illness or the treatment she received in the prison hospital, but not until 1900 was she considered well enough to return to court. The jury quickly found her not guilty, on the grounds that she had been insane when she killed her children and attempted suicide. Mr Justice Hood directed that she be kept n strict custody attheGovernor’spleasure.

That left Gerald McCarthy with the agony of his grief, alone in the cottage which had once echoed to the sounds of boisterous,laughingchildren.Foryearshe placed heart-wrenching memorial notices inthenewspapers,withnevertheslightest mentionofhiswife.

Perhaps, thinking back to that ineradicable day, he wondered about Margaret’s true state of mind on 11 May, 1898. Why had she destroyed the jewellery hehadgivenher,plushiswatchandchain? Why had she used his coal hammer to slay the children, and his razor to cut her own throat? Was this some secret rage and hatred directedtowardshim?

Heandhistorywouldneverknow,forthe truthwasburiedwiththedead.

Amateur historian Barb McNeill.

PUZZLES

To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.

ACROSS

1 Dine (3)

3 Increase in value (10)

10 On the way (2,5)

11 Make clear (7)

12 The study of speech sounds (9)

13 Head cook (4)

15 Greatly impressed by fame (10)

17 Sunrise (4)

19 Stead (4)

20 Professed (10)

23 Exclamation of surprise (4)

25 One who restrains an impulse (9)

27 Repeats (7)

28 Hard to define (7)

29 Widespread destruction; disclosure (10)

30 Newt (3)

DOWN

1 With embarrassment (10)

2 Pierce (9)

4 First showings (9)

5 Sways to and fro (5)

6 Opportunity (6)

7 Tolerate (5)

8 Irish singer (4)

9 Constraint (6)

14 Affection (10)

16 Dispiriting (9)

18 Eggplant (9)

21 Follow to the end (3,3)

22 Fruit (6)

24 Big, grey, herbivorous mammal (5)

25 Fastidious (5)

26 Operatic air (4)

1 Miranda is a moon orbiting which planet in our solar system?

2 Which fruit is traditionally used in a Liverpool Tart?

3 In the story by Carlo Collodi, what is the name of the woodcarver who created Pinocchio?

4 Which animal is the mascot for Nesquik?

5 True or false: the vampire bat consumes blood?

6 What type of cloud produces rain?

7 Julianne Moore (pictured) won the Academy Award for Best Actress for which movie?

8 What bakery food is Homer Simpson’s favourite?

9 A mawashi is worn as part of which sport?

10 Who had a hit with the 1987 single Never Gonna Give YouUp?

No.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Movies on the Hill Movies on the Hill presents their next film on Sunday September 28 at 2pm, Norma Richardson Hall, Woodend. Jump aboard Betsy, the black London taxi, at Buckingham Palace, waved off by Dame Edna and headed for Sydney Opera House. the longest, most entertaining taxi ride ever! Adult tickets include a glass of wine, tea or coffee and snacks are available to buy. Supporting Woodend Lifestyle Carers.  www.michaeldillonfilms.com.au

Gisborne Swap Meet, Car Show and Train Day

On Sunday, October 5 the Gisborne Vintage Machinery Society & Macedon Ranges Motoring Club will hold a Swap meet, Car display and Miniature Train day at Steam Park, New Gisborne (Webb Cres) from 9am. Sites available for the day, a free ride on the miniature trains with every entry and food and refreshments available on site.

 Anthony, 0400 087 896 or www.gisbornevmrs.com

Free Men’s Night

The Macedon Ranges Suicide Prevention Action Group will be hosting a free Men’s Night, designed to provide a safe, relaxed setting for men of all ages to come together, build community, and have honest conversations about mental health. Former police sergeant and mental health advocate Mark Thomas will talk on the night. The free Men’s Night will take place at the Mount Macedon Golf Club, Thursday, October 23 at 6pm. A free BBQ dinner will be provided, with meat tray giveaways and free merchandise.

 https://tinyurl.com/mtzupdnb

Energy saving upgrades for your home

Are your energy bills going up, but you’re still cold in winter and hot in summer?

Learn about Hume City Council’s Home Energy Upgrades program offering quality, good-value energy saving products to Hume residents: split system cycle heating and cooling, heat pump hot water, rooftop solar and batteries, induction cooking, insulation and draught proofing. The program offers no obligation quotes through vetted supplies, help to access government rebates, plus additional Council rebates for eligible concession card holders. Happening Saturday, October 25, 11am to 12.30pm at the Sunbury Global Learning Centre, 44 Macedon Street, Sunbury. Free event and all welcome with light refreshments provided.

 www.hume.vic.gov.au/energy

Fire n Friends

The Kerrie ‘Fire n Friends’ Bonfire is Back by Demand! Mark your calendars — Saturday October 25 is the night to gather around the flames with a family-friendly event for all ages planned. Come and enjoy live local entertainment, the BBQ menu and foodvan, or BYO food and drink. Entry will be through donation. Bring your friends/ families and come along for a warm night of community, connection, and celebration. Happening Saturday, October 25 from 5pm to 11pm at the Kerrie Hall.

 https://www.facebook.com/KerrieHallinc

SNH Annual General Meeting

The 2025 AGM for Sunbury Neighbourhood House (SNH) will be held at the SNH premises at 531 Elizabeth Drive, Sunbury at 7pm on Tuesday October 28. Phone 9740 6978 OR email win@sunburyhouse. com.au to register interest in attending.

 www.sunburyhouse.com.au

With 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

Malmsbury Farmers and Makers Market

Locals and people from afar get along to this wonderful Farmers Market. Always the third Sunday of the month….fresh produce, wine, hot food, coffee, plants, artisan foods and crafts that are special. Musical entertainment whilst you shop and catch up with friends. Located at the picturesque Malmsbury Cricket Ground 9am- 1pm.

 Amy, 0423 726 695

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

Sunbury Seniors

Sunbury Seniors (55 or older) meet on Mondays and Fridays from 9.30am–2.30pm. They are temporarily relocating to 531 Elizabeth Drive, Sunbury. A variety of activities are offered – indoor bowls, cards, snooker, guest speakers, day

excursions, subsidised lunches or just a cup of coffee and a chat.

 0434 400 754

Perna Perna Women’s Group

The group is currently knitting and crocheting blankets for First Nations peoples in palliative care across Australia. Perna Perna is a friendly group who meet fortnightly at Sunbury Neighbourhood House, 531 Elizabeth Drive, Sunbury, on a Thursday, from 1-3pm. It has established a bush tucker garden at Sunbury Neighbourhood House. New members warmly welcomed. If you don’t knit or garden but would just like to drop in for a chat, the group would love to meet you.

 Joan, 0418 302 676

Neighbourhood garden

Become part of Sunbury’s Neighbourhood Garden and grow edible and useful plants in a social group at Sunbury Neighbourhood House, 531 Elizabeth Drive, Sunbury. All skill sets are welcome.

 www.sunburyhouse.com.au or 9740 6978

Sunbury Woodworkers Club

Join the Sunbury Woodworkers Club to learn woodturning. No experience or tools required. The club is a welcoming environment open to men and women who wish to learn. Meetings for new guests are held on the third Wednesday of every month at 7.30pm. Circular drive, Jackson’s Hill, Sunbury. Facebook: Sunbury Woodworkers Club.

 Anita, 0417 402 795

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Hopetoun Park resident Elley Camilleri, who cooks lasagne for those in need. (Damjan Janevski). 503241_01

Major Hindu festival

Locals can join the celebrations of Hindu culture as part of the major Durga Puja festival taking place in Brimbank on Saturday, September 27 and Sunday, September28.

The event will be presented by Utsav Melbourne Association (UMA) and supportedbyBrimbankcouncil.

UMA public relations lead Pat Banerjee said Durga Puja is one of the most significant and joyous festivals in Hindu culture, celebrated globally with huge pompandfanfare.

“Atitscore,thefestivalhonoursGoddess Durga, the embodiment of strength and divine energy, and marks her victory over thedemonkingMahishasura,symbolising thetriumphofgoodoverevil,”MrBanerjee said.

“Beyond its religious essence, Durga Pujaisalsoaculturalandsocialfestival.It showcases art, music, dance, theatre, and literature, bringing communities together incelebration.Familiesandfriendsengage in traditions, wear new clothes, share festivemeals,andenjoytraditionalsweets.

“Thelastday,VijayaDashami,ismarked by the immersion of the goddess’s idol in water, symbolising her return to her celestial abode. Durga Puja beautifully blends devotion, creativity, and community spirit, making it a celebration ofbothfaithandculture.”

Each day of the festival will feature different activities, such as offering pushpanjali (floral offerings) and prayers totheGoddess.

Priests will also perform rituals such as aarti, chanting of mantras, and dhunuchi dance, accompanied by the sound of dhaak(drums).

Cultural programs, including music, dance, drama, and recitations will take place in the evenings, showcasing Bengali art and heritage with people wearing traditional Indian attire, sharing festive meals,andenjoyingtraditionaldishes.

“Our event will also emphasise community bonding, with friends and families gathering together. All these events will be offered for free amidst an electric and buzzing ambience… UMA offers a kaleidoscope of fanfare, with a blend of spirituality, art, culture, and community bonding,” Mr Banerjee said.

Durga Puja festival celebrations will take place at 100 Forrest Street, Ardeer on Saturday, September 27 from 10am to 9pm and Sunday, September 28 from 10am to 3pm.

More info: https://www.facebook.com/ utsavmelbourneassociation/

Don’t miss colourful Kyneton performance

KynetonTheatreCompanyisgearingupfor its next performance, and it’s one not to be missed.

The next show will be Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s showstopping performance, Joseph and the Amazing TechnicolourDreamcoat.

Performed thousands of times across the globe, including multiple runs in the West End and on Broadway, Joseph has become one of the world’s most beloved family musicals.

KTC’s production features a line-up of local talent from across the Macedon Ranges, with the two casts including Michael von Bonin and Chris Sliwczynski as Joseph, Katy Somerville and Erin Haberecht as The Narrator, Iain Grant and Jayden Andrea as Pharoah – and lots more familiarandnewfaces.

The casts will be singing all the classics from the hit musical, including Any Dream WillDo,CloseEveryDoor,There’sOneMore AngelInHeavenandGo,Go,GoJoseph.

Taking over the Bluestone Theatre in October, many local families will take to thestageaswell,withplentyofyoungtalent makingtheirKTCdebuts.

Alongside the performers, the KTC band will also be returning for the shows, bringingitsline-upoflocaltalent.

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour DreamcoatwillbeshowingattheBluestone Theatre,HuttonStreet,Kyneton,onFridays, Saturdays and Sundays from Friday, October3untilSunday,October26.Tickets: trybooking.com/events/landing/1446898

Enjoy Americana music in Australia at Seaworks

Out On The Weekend, the greatest one-day celebration of alt-country and Americana music in Australia, kicks off a new decade of good times on Saturday, October 11 at SeaworksinWilliamstown.

Leading the charge is Nashville outlaw Nikki Lane & Her Band, bringing grit, glamour and rhinestone swagger to the Seaworks’stageforthefirsttimein11years. Joined by first time visitor, Texan troubadour Vincent Neil Emerson and his band, and groove-heavy road dogs Cordovas.

Also confirmed for the 2025 line-up:

local cosmic cowboys Lost Ragas, rising Californian folk songbirds Sylvie, Irish-American pickers and clawhammers Dug touring Oz for the first time, the down-home and dirty charm of husband-and-wifeteamLaidBackCountry Picker, and Canadian folk duo Kacy & Clayton.

Homegrown favourites Sskyscraper

Stan & The Commision Flats, Ella Hooper, Loretta Miler Band and Midnight Chicken addtothelocalflavouralongsidetheHenry Wagons&TheTennesseeStudsperforming the good n gritty Cash: A Journey Through

Night of magic in Moorabool

Prepare to have your senses awoken and your mind blown, as a magic show graces the Bacchus Marsh Public hall next month to raise moneyforanimportantcause.

Behind the visual spectacles and magic mastery is Pentland Hills Landcare Group member and magician Mark Mayer, who is volunteering his skills and time to raise awareness and funds for an issue of high importance in Moorabool–serratedtussock.

WhenMrMayermovedtoPentland HillsfromFitzroy,hesaiditwasonly through the Landcare group that he begantolearnabouttheextentofthe problem that ravages land across the region.

“Over the years, we’ve really enjoyed being there and being a part of the Pentland Hills Landcare Group, and then, at a couple of meetings,theyweretalkingaboutthe serratedtussockandwhataproblem itis–andhowmostpeopledon’teven know about it or know what it is,” Mr Mayersaid.

“I’m a … professional magician, I have been for over 20 years, and I thought ‘well, if I could do a charity show that raises awareness, then we can use that money and awareness to buy more equipment, buy more poisons…andhelppeoplewiththeir farms,’”hesaid.

“[Serrated tussock] is very, very tough–it’sdroughttolerant–andthe headscanproduce100,000seedsand getblowninthesehotwindswehave aroundhere.”

MrMayersaidattendeescanexpect plenty of audience participation at this family-friendly event – titled ‘Mind Games’ due to the interactive andplayfulnatureoftheshow.

The show will end with an awe-inspiring final magic track that will share an important message aboutserratedtussockinMoorabool.

There will be a live jazz band, drinks, food, and raffle tickets – with prizesdonatedbylocalbusinesses.

The event was funded through a Moorabool council grant, and all funds raised from the show will go towards Pentland Hills Landcare’s fightagainstserratedtussock.

The Landcare group will also have aninformationstandattheevent.

Hosted at the Bacchus Marsh Public Hall on Saturday, October 18, doors will open at 6pm and the show willbeginat7pm.

Further details and prices are availableontheeventpage.

Details: stickytickets.com.au/ ryoxa/mind_games_with_mark_ mayer.aspx

TheAmericanRecordings. Make your way to the Pirate’s Tavern Honky Tonk for sets by James Ellis & The Jealous Guys and J.Taylor Bell & The Ding Dongsalongwithtwosteplessons.

With its trademark mix of excellent live music, hand selected booze, fine food, and feel-goodvibes,OutOnTheWeekendisthe place to be for lovers of Americana, twang, andgoodol’countryandwesternforadayof celebration, old friends, musical discovery andlookinggooddownbythewater.

Ticketsonsalenowat:outontheweekend. com.au

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat cast one (top) and cast two.

(Pictures: Alexis Liersch Photography).

Durga Puja festival celebrations will take place on September 27 and 28. (Supplied)

Pentland Hills Landcare Group member and magician Mark Mayer. (Oscar Parry)

Fax: (03) 5422 3623

Email: mrsc@mrsc.vic.gov.au Web: www.mrsc.vic.gov.au

NOTICE OF AN APPLICATION FOR A PLANNING PERMIT

Planning And Environment Act 1987 Section 52(1)

An application for a planning permit has been made which may affect you.

The land affected by the application is located at: LOT 1 PS 530413S P/Gisborne 69 Outlook Lane GISBORNE VIC 3437

The application is for a permit to: Vary a restriction on title relating to a building envelope (instrument no.PS530413S)

A permit is required under the following clauses of the Macedon Ranges Planning Scheme:

The applicant for the permit is: BM Town Planning

The application reference number is: PLN/2025/142 Officer contact details: Ph: (03) 5422 0352

Any person who may be affected by the

permit may object or make other submissions to the responsible authority. An objection must:

•Be made to the responsible authority in writing or lodged online

•Include your name and mailing address

•Additionally for objections include:

•Reason/s for the objection

•State how you would be affected by the granting of a permit

•Any suggestions on how to address concerns (as applicable)

The responsible authority must make a copy of every objection available for any person to inspect free of charge until the end of the period during which an application maybe made for review of a decision on the application.

More information about the objection process, including our privacy collection notice and our prescribed objection/ submission form is located on Council’s website at https://www.mrsc.vic.gov.au/Build-Plan/Planning-PermitsApprovals-Forms/Object-to-an-application.

The responsible authority will not decide on the application before at least 14 days after the date the last notice under section 52(1) or (1AA) of the Act is to be given. If you make an objection, the Responsible Authority will inform you of its decision.

SPORTS QUIZ

1. What is the official nickname of the New Zealand men’s national soccer team?

2. Former Tottenham Hotspur coach Ange Postecoglou is the new coach of which Premier League team?

3. Which country defeated

4. And which member of that country’s team was named the EuroBasket 2025 MVP?

5. Following their recent victory against the Springboks, how many consecutive games have the All Blacks won at Auckland’s Eden Park?

What is the nationality of golfer Scottie Scheffler?

Marking 25 years since the Sydney Olympics, how many athletes were recently inducted into Stadium Australia’s hall of fame?

The final stage of which road cycling race was cancelled with more than 55km still to race, due to disruptions from protesters?

After winning the 2025 US Open, which book did Aryna Sabalenka credit for her mental resilience?

Why did Magnus Carlsen withdraw from the 2024 World Rapid and Blitz Chess Championships?

Which team did the Gold Coast Suns defeat by one point to win their first ever AFL final?

Australian soccer player Ellie Carpenter recently made her debut for which Women’s Super League

13. Which West Indian batting allrounder has played over 700 T20 cricket games so far in his career?

14. The World Athletics Championships was held in which city and country this month?

15. Which Australian motor racing driver announced his retirement from all forms of competition recently?

16. Car manufacturer Ford has been the sponsor of the Geelong Football Club since which year?

17. Which former New Zealand cricketer has come out of retirement to play for Samoa in the T20 World Cup regional qualifiers?

18. In which country is the annual Cheese Rolling competition held, in which participants chase a wheel of cheese down a steep hill?

19. The Australian national men’s soccer team is set to make what number consecutive World Cup appearance in 2026?

20. Which Australian tennis great was suspended for two weeks over an allegation he pushed a 60-year-old anti-doping volunteer?

21. Which Matildas star recently returned to the field for the first time since January 2024?

22. The upcoming Tasmania Devils team will wear what colour not currently worn by any AFL team?

23. Which Australian runner won bronze in the 1,500m final at the 2025 World Athletics Championships?

24. Late boxer Ricky Hatton lost how many of his 48 career fights?

25. Which Brisbane Broncos player was fined for a headbutt in the team’s final against the Canberra Raiders?

26. Which AFL player recently had a tense confrontation with a photographer during a training session?

27. Which AFLW team plays home matches at Brighton Homes Arena?

gap between wins?

28. Which nation topped the medal table at the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games?

29. Which nation recently knocked Australia out of the Davis Cup tournament?

30. Which AFL team holds the all-time longest premiership drought, with a 72-year

Ellie Carpenter

Aryna Sabalenka

Power play to hybrid heights

By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring

With the landing of its Cannon Alpha plug-in hybrid electric vehicle in Australia, Great Wall Motors has shot its big ute into a leading spot in the segment, the Chinese maker claiming the PHEV sets a new yardstick in performance, range, and capabilities for electrified vehicles in the segment.

GWM’ssecondmodeltoenterthegrowing PHEV market in Australia, following the Haval H6GT PHEV, the Cannon Alpha PHEV comes in two variants, the Lux and Ultraonthemarketfor$63,990and$68,990 respectively,driveaway.

The maker claims the Ultra (on test) has an EV range of 110km (even off road and in 4WD) and a combined ICE and EV touring range of 880km, utilising the 75-litre petrol tank. Charging times from a DC fast chargerarereckonedat24minutesfrom30 to80percentcharge.

The Cannon Alpha PHEV is backed by GWM’s comprehensive customer-care program offering an eight-year unlimited kilometre battery pack warranty, seven-year unlimited kilometre new car warranty, seven-year roadside assistance with 24/7 support, and seven years capped priceservicing.

Styling

On first glance, the Cannon PHEV is instantlyrecognisable,ifnotforalltheright reasons.Thesparewheelsitsuptotheright of the tub (blame the battery pack), taking up precious load space, while the split tailgate,ontest,wasanopen-andshutcase – press the button once to drop the lot, or twicetosplitit.Sometimesitwenttoscript, othersnotso.

Up in size compared to the ICE Cannon ute, just shy of five-and-a-half metres long (13.1m turning circle), with a tidy 3350mm wheelbase, the Cannon Alpha leaves Ranger, D-Max and HiLux in the shade. A panoramic sunroof, on the other hand, opensupthecabintothegreatoutdoors.

Interior

TheCannonAlphaUltraPHEVisdecidedly commercial vehicle plush, with quality

features including leather accented seats, driver’s seat eight-way electric adjustment, front passenger seat six ways, heated/ ventilated/massagefrontseats.

Heated/ventilated rear outer seats have a recline function and two-way electric adjustment. Surprisingly, leg room is not limited by the adjustments. Oh, and there’s a heated steering wheel and a twee analogueclockinthecentrestack.

Up front, decor is de rigueur for a big ute withpanellingacrossthedashboard,while piano black and satin metallic-looking section are suckers for smudges and spots. Cupholders take up positions down near thecentreconsole,andawirelesscharging padunderaslidingpanel.Poweroutletsare easytogetat.

Infotainment

The Lux grade includes 360-degree view monitor, 12.3-inch full-colour driver instrument cluster and similar-size touch screeninfotainmentsystem,wirelessApple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, plusfrontandrearUSBoutlets

Ultra adds nice touches with a 14.6-inch full-colour touchscreen infotainment system in place of the Lux 12.3-inch display.

Also upgraded are premium Infinity audio system with 10 speakers and amplifier, wireless phone charger (front and rear) and head-up windscreen display. There are physical controls on the steeringwheel,andvolumecontrolsonthe swipe-down, but a volume knob wouldn’t goastray.

The Cannon Alpha plug-in hybrid’s infotainment system does allow for a lot of special controls around the powertrain – camping modes, power preservation, chargingcyclesandenergyconsumption.

Engines/transmissions

Powered by GWM’s Hi4-T Plug-in Hybrid EV technology and equipped with a 37.1kWhternarylithiumbattery,the2-litre turbo-petrol engine delivers a combined 300kWofpowerand750Nmoftorque.

The two ternary lithium batteries under theCannonAlphaof15.2kWhand21.9kWh adduptototalbatterycapacityof37.11kWh.

PairedwithGWM’snine-speedautomatic transmission, it offers up to 110km of pure EVdrivingrange,withacombinedrangeof 880km – 10 per cent more than its nearest rival.

GWM’s 9AT gearbox is no bigger than a conventional six-speed auto. Despite this, theunitachievesanimpressive97percent efficiency by utilising a lower viscosity gearbox oil and is engineered to handle a maximumof750Nm.

Safety

The all-new Cannon Alpha PHEV has received the maximum five-star safety rating from the Australasian New Car Assessment Program, following months of close collaboration between GWM and ANCAP.

Contributing to the top rating are seven airbags, autonomous emergency braking,

AEBjunctionassist,lanechangeassistand lanekeepingassist,hilldescentcontroland rearcollisionwarning.

Driving

For a start (literally), setting off in the Cannon Alpha PHEV can be something of a mystery with acceleration – from pedestriantospritely–outofproportionto the pressure on the pedal. Initial response wasnotwithoutadealoflag.

Open road fuel consumption on test was recorded at 26.8kWh per 100km and 0.7 litres per 100km. The multimedia screen displays charging status and time, as does the GWM app. Filling the fuel tank with petrolisperICEvehicles.

The system has multiple modes to suit driveconditionssuchasEVpriority,fullEV andintelligentmodes.TheHi4Ttechnology allows the engine to remain in EV mode in 4×4 high range mode, in addition to supporting EV-only driving at highway speeds,afirstforthesegment.

Alpha PHEV in EV mode is primarily rear-wheel drive. Lock into 4x4 and the transfer case directs a 50:50 split front-to-rear.Offroad,4x4iseasilyengaged viaacentre-consolepushbutton.

The battery supports DC fast charging of up to 50kW, enabling a rapid 30 to 80 per centchargeinjust26minutes.Whenusing an AC home charger, the battery recharges from near empty to full in approximately 6.5hours.

Vehicle-to-load (V2L) capabilities of up to 3.3kW output is included and enables the Cannon Alpha to provide AC power to devicesandsomehomeappliances.

Class-leading 3500kg maximum braked towing capacity is carried over from ICE models, while an impressive 800mm water wading depth and 224mm of ground clearanceensureflexibilityandversatility.

Summary

For those wishing to take an each-way bet on electric vehicles taking over the automotiveworldandwithpubliccharging infrastructure lagging, the plug-in hybrid – external chargeable electric power with ICE back-up – is an early favourite and the GWMAlphaPHEVwellhandicapped.

Great Wall Motors has shot its big ute into a leading spot in the segment. (Pictures: Supplied)

All set for a classic finale

Grand finals are the ultimate test - talent, system and nerve colliding in front of 100,000 at the MCG. This year it’s a classic: Geelong’sstructureanddisciplineagainst Brisbane’s pressure and flair.

Geelong’s Case

The Cats have been ruthless all year, built on a system that strangles opposition ball movement, forces turnovers, and grinds teamsdown.Theyrelyondisciplinerather than individual brilliance.

But the loss of Tom Stewart is massive. He’s their defensive general, and without him, Sam De Koning must rise - intercepting, organising, and driving rebound.

That makes De Koning’s role critical. If he holds firm, Mark Blicavs can stay locked in the ruck, where his athleticism and endurance are vital. If not, Geelong risk dragging Blicavs back to plug holes - and losing balance at both ends of the ground.

Brisbane’s Case

The Lions thrive on chaos. Their midfield intensity - Dunkley’s tackling, McCluggage’s polish, Rayner’s bursts - is tailor-made for finals. Charlie Cameron remains the lightning rod, but the swingman could be Logan Morris. At just 20, he must play the Joe Daniher role of 2024: presenting up the ground, crashing packs, and bringing the ball to ground for

Brisbane’ssmalls.Ifhecompeteshardand keeps Geelong’s defence honest, the Lions can pile on enough pressure to rattle the Cats’ structure.

The Decider This grand final is system versus surge. Geelong will look to slow it down and own territory. Brisbane will want to speed it

up, thrive on chaos, and feed their small forwards.

Prediction: Geelong by 16 points. I’m basing this on Lachie Neale not playing with his calf injury. If he misses, Brisbane lose their most composed clearance player, and Geelong’s system will hold firm.

AFL grand final week: the greatest show in football

Grand final week isn’t just another week of football - it’s the greatest theatre our gamehas.Fortheplayers,thecoaches,and the fans, it’s a blur of colour, noise, nerves and history pressing down on your shoulders.

Fortheboysluckyenoughtobeoutthere, nothing compares. The parade on Friday feelslikeyou’refloating-tensofthousands liningthestreets,kidsonshoulderswaving scarves, supporters crying just to get a glimpse. You smile and wave, but deep down you’re wrestling with the nerves of what’s coming. You know you’re about to walk out in front of 100,000 people at the MCG and carry the weight of your jumper, your club, and every supporter who’s lived and breathed the journey.

I’ve been there. In 1996, when North broke a 19-year drought, the joy was overwhelming - the kind of joy that stays in your bones forever. In 1998, the disappointment was just as deep, because we knew we’d let one slip. And in 1999, batteredandbroken,wefoundredemption. That’s the essence of grand final week: the line between ecstasy and agony is paper thin.

And that’s what makes it so powerful. Behindthepageantryistheharshestreality in sport. For every player strapping up an ankle or hiding nerves with a grin, there’s another told they’ve missed selection. I’ve seen tears in September that no camera captures - teammates gutted, knowing the dream has gone for another year. That’s

the human cost of grand final week, and it’s just as much a part of the story as the celebrations.

But when Saturday comes and you burst through the banner, everything fades. The nerves, the doubts, the bruises - they all disappear in the roar of 100,000. It’s just footy.

Hard, uncompromising, desperate footy, where reputations are made and legends are written.

That’s why grand final week is the greatest week in Australian sport. It’s not just about the cup at the end - it’s about the spectacle, the heartbreak, the joy, and the chance to etch your name into history. Because for players and fans alike, nothing else compares.

Sam De Koning will be key for the Cats on Saturday. He is tackled by Brandon Starcevich during the qualifying final. (AAP Image/Joel Carrett)

Anthony Stevens is the principal of Anthony Stevens Real Estate. Phone 0459 924 164.

The AFL Premiership Cup is the holy grail for players and fans. (AFL Photos).

Heartbreaking Lions’ loss

Sunbury fans travelled in droves up to Ballarat for the Ballarat Football Netball League grand finals on Saturday. With seven teams in grand finals, the Lions were hoping for some premiership joy. While the Lions walked away with three premierships, their A-grade netball and senior football fell short. TARA MURRAY wasthereshootingsomeoftheactionfrom thefinaltwogamesoftheday.

Sunbury players after the game.

Sunbury Lions coach Matt White with Darley coach Dan Jordan.

The Sunbury crowd.

Missed opportunity in ruck contest.

Simona Di Fillipo. Caitlin Hill.

Rebecca Hicks.

The A-grade netballers.

Not to be for the Sunbury Lions.

Tayla Honey in defence.

Senior football.

Tylah Bell claims EDFL women’s division 2 top honour

Sunbury Kangaroos’ midfielder Tylah Bell has been crowned the Essendon District Football League women’s division 2 best player.

Bell was the runaway winner at the leaguebestandfairestnightonWednesday night, finishing on 28 votes, nine clear of Gisborne-Kyneton United’s Belinda Hateley.

Bell, who admitted on stage she can be a bit of a pest on field and did annoy the umpires, said she was shocked to claim the medal.

“I was actually [shocked],” she said. “I thought there were a few other girls [who had good seasons].

“I actually thought Belinda would have taken the chocolates having had such a fantastic year

“Credit to her for being runners up.” Bell started her career at the Kangaroos before heading to Coburg and then taking a few years off football.

She returned to her home club last year andquicklyshowedwhyshehadpreviously been one of the competition’s best players.

Bell said she was happy with her season.

“I was pretty proud of myself,” she said. “It was one of the hardest seasons to get through mentally.

“I’m pretty proud of myself for sticking with it.

“Pretty proud of the girls for making a prelim as we probably didn’t think we were going to get there at the start of the year.

“We would have liked to have won it in the end. Next year [we’ll] come back bigger and better.”

Bell, who could be easily playing at a higher level, admits at times she can get frustrated on the field.

She said playing at this level has more positives than anything though.

“I also love being able to teach and coach others,” she said. “There’s so many girls that it might be their first year.

“Iwantedtolookatmyselfasbeinginthe competitionforsuchalongtime andthatif I can help out then I’m doing my job.

“I feel honoured to use my experience to really help others. I enjoy that part.”

Bell also paid tribute to coach Carly Blyth for helping the group take that next step and build a really good culture within the group.

“She knows when to draw the line as well, when to be serious and when to have a bit of a laugh,” she said.

“We’re such a close connected group, all of us girls get along and I think that really helps with the success.”

Kangaroos’ Adam Prescott won the division 2 men’s reserves best and fairest medal.

Tara Murray

Egan claims medal

By Tara Murray

Sunbury Lions’ Jake Egan still can’t believe the end of the Ballarat Football League Henderson Medal count, which ended with him being named the competition’s best player.

Egan polled five best on grounds in the final five rounds to come over the top of two-timewinner,BrettBewley.

Bewley led by eight votes after 13 rounds and by the final round the margin was just onevote,withEgannowinsecond.

The Devils captain didn’t play the final round, with Egan polling the three votes to finishon28votes,twoclearofBewley.

Egansaiditwasprettycrazy.

“I’m pretty pumped at the moment,” he said the following day. “I thought I might go alright but not to that extent that happened attheendofthenight.

“It’s nice, it’s the biggest honour in the league. It means a lot and I try to put in the workandithaspaidoff.”

Egan said he and the rest of the Lions knew that Bewley didn’t play in the Devils

finalroundwinputtingthemallonedge.

He said Bewley was the clear favourite headingintotheaccount.

TheLionshadabigwinoverMeltoninthe finalround.

Daniel Johnston polled one vote for the Lions, before Tony Lockett Medal winner Jake Sutton polled the two votes adding to thedrama.

Eganwouldpollthethreevotes.

“Itwasaweirdone,”Egansaid.“Suttohad kicked six goals that day so it could have goneeitherway.

“I’mthankfulitfellthewaythatitdid.”

Egan thought he had a pretty strong season with a lull in the middle of the season. He was still able to poll votes in someofthosegames.

The five best on grounds to finish the seasoncameasashock.

“The boys asked how I was feeling and I thought I went OK,” he said. “Things kept fallingmyway.”

Akeycogofthemidfield,Eganhadtostep up his game when Josh Guthrie went down injured.

Fisher steps up at the

Tigers

coach

is keen to help the playing group further improve while making sure fun is at the forefront in the Gisborne and District Cricket Association women’s competition.

Fisher joins the Tigers having coached at Hanging Rock and Castlemaine, while also having played cricket overseas.

He said he was looking forward to the challenge.

“It is fantastic,” he said. “I was reallyinvolvedinthefemaleprogram at Hanging Rock with my daughter playing.

“Iwanttogivebacktolocalcricket.”

With his daughter playing senior cricket with the Tigers, Fisher was keen to coach her and the rest of the group.

“I’m looking forward to it,” he said. “Hopefully we can win a few more games and enjoy it more than anything.

“I didn’t know a great deal about the program but had watched a few games last year.”

The Tigers have had two teams the past couple of seasons.

Fisher said they were still unsure on numbers and whether they would have one or two teams.

Guthrie, who finished with 15 votes, was infrontafter10roundsalongwithBewley.

Egan said Guthrie was a massive support forhimevenwhenhehasn’tbeenplaying.

“He is a star,” he said. “He has helped me outtherewitheverythingweekin,weekout.

“Meandhim[Guthrie]workwelltogether. Weworkwelloffeachother.

“Ihadtohelpstepupwhenhewentdown.

“The midfield coach and group look after me and have helped me become the player Iam.”

While thrilled with the Henderson Medal win, Egan had a bigger focus as the Lions faced off against Darley in Saturday’s grand final.

Unfortunately for the Egan, the Lions couldn’tgetthejobdone.

On the netball court, Simona Di Filippo was just three votes off a third straight McLeanMedal.

Themidcourterfinishedon27votes,three behindNorthBallarat’sMaddySelmon.

Di Filippo, Tayla Honey, Sarah Croft and Rebecca Hicks were all named in the A-gradeteamoftheyear.

He said having the two sides had allowed some cricketers who wanted to take it more seriously and those who wanted to have a bit more fun.

The Tigers best player, Nat Jeffrey, has re-signed in a big boost for the club.

Jeffrey was one of the first women to score a century in the GDCA last season.

“She will do a lot of the leadership role on the field which will be great.”

Fisher said they were still looking for more players for the upcoming season.

He said any female of any ability could come down and play.

Training is already underway.

“I want them to have fun and enjoy it,” Fisher said. “I want to see them improve their cricket.

“I am them to suggest what they want to work on and we’ll look to improve in those areas.”

Tara Murray

Tylah Bell. (Tara Murray)

New Lancefield

Michael Fisher

Jake Egan. (Jacob Pattison) 351772_05

Former Sunbury Lion Guthrie lends Stewart support

Former Sunbury Lion Zach Guthrie will his chance on the biggest stage for the second time this Saturday.

After missing out on the 2020 grand final, Guthrie was part of the Cats’ 2022 premiership.

Now one of the Cats most important defenders, Guthrie is set to play a key role in the absence of Tom Stewart, who will miss the decider with concussion.

Guthrie has backed Geelong’s tight defensive unit to cover Stewart’s absence as he wraps his arms around the injured star.

The Cats suffered a huge blow when Stewart was ruled out of the season decider under concussion protocols, after he was hurt in a tackle during the preliminary final.

Fellow defender Jack Henry is also in some doubt with an ankle injury sustainedduringtherousing30-pointwin over Hawthorn.

But Guthrie, who stepped up with

a game-high 10 intercept possessions against the Hawthorn, believes the depleted Cats’ back-line can hold up when it matters most.

“It’s tough when you lose one of your best players like Stewy,” Guthrie told AAP. “I’m hoping Jack will be right to go and I’m sure he’ll lift because it’s a grand final.

“But it’s a collective effort and I think

some of those young guys like Connor O’Sullivan that stood in for us were really important for us.

“What’s happened has happened and we’ll look to rely on all those guys to make up the slack and work around them.”

Geelong coaches and players have offered their support to Stewart in what Chris Scott described as a “shattering” scenario for the five-time All-Australian.

Max Holmes was the hard-luck story in Geelong’s 2022 premiership year, not risked for the grand final after injuring his hamstring the previous week.

And Guthrie is another of those teammates who have a sense of the emotion Stewart is going through.

The 27-year-old was in his fourth season when he was left out of the 2020 decider, named among the Cats’ emergencies for the 12th time that season.

“I’m feeling massively for Stewy. It’s pretty tough for him, along with a number of other guys that will miss

Mistakes cost Lions

By Tara Murray

Sunbury Lions’ hopes of back-to-back premierships came crashing down as a red hot Darley came away with the trophy in the Ballarat Netball League.

The top side all season, the Lions had limped into the grand final with injuries and not playing their best form.

Darley, the only side to beat the Lions this season, was hoping to finally break through for its first A-grade premiership in its fourth straight grand final.

The Devils did a lot of the work early and wereabletoextendthemargintofivegoals at the last break.

The margin had been out to as much as eight before the Lions showed that fighting spiritithadbeenknownforthepastcouple of years.

It was back to one goal late in the final quarter, but the Lions weren’t able to make the most of their opportunities.

The Devils capitalised and were able to get the margin back out to win, 51-46.

Bailey said that Darley was outstanding

and deserved to get the premiership.

“They were awesome defensively,” she said. “We maybe should have made a couple of changes earlier.

“That is what happens. Luck of the draw.

“We lacked a bit of connection there which we have for a few weeks. We’ll put it together and work out what we did and come back bigger and better next year.”

Bailey said not having goalkeeper Elly Randall, who broke her arm, was a big loss for them.

She said Tayla Honey did an awesome job in goal defence but it had unsettled their line up a little bit.

“Tay did an awesome jon and Eliza [Gollant] did a good job,” she said. “I think Olivia Cawthray almost shot 100 per cent.”

Bailey said when they had got it back to one goal they just needed to make sure they converted their opportunities.

“I knew we would get a momentum swing [if they were level],” she said. “It just wasn’t to be.

“A couple of silly mistakes.

“Theywerejustfartoocomposedandtoo good on the day.”

Caitlin Hill had a strong game, shooting 25 goals.

Bailey said Georgia Hellyer made an impact when she came back on into wing attack.

AbigailInglishadsomekeymomentslate inthegametogivehersideanopportunity.

It was a mixed day for the Lions.

They had five of their six netball teams in grand finals.

The C-grade and D-grade sides were the only teams to come away with premierships.

Bailey said she was really proud of the whole club.

“Really happy with those two and they are hard to win,” she said. “We’ll go back and celebrate our season.

“Just because you don’t win a grand final it means that your season has been a failure.

“It’s been really successful. We’re really happy with what we’ve done this season.

“It makes us a bit hungrier for next year.”

out,” Guthrie said.

“I’ve been on that side of it as well and I know how tough it is.

“I’ll try to rally around some of those guys because I know it’s a lonely feeling.

“You don’t want to be over the top and get in their face and over-check how they are, but I’ll wrap my arms around them.”

Another former Sunbury Lions, Mark Blicavs is also set to play on Saturday.

Blicavs said post game to Cats media that it was amazing.

“I was really proud of how composed we were,” he said. “We had a good steely resolve.

“Some pretty special goals tonight [Friday]. Amazing front row seats and amazing to be part of.

“You never think you’re going to be here again. You want to be, they’re really tough to come by.”

With Shayne Hope, AAP

Burras lock in a new coach

Diggers Rest has locked in a new coach for next year’s Riddell District Netball League season.

After a tough 2025 where they finishedsecondbottomontheladder, the Burras have appointed Deepak Patu as the club’s new A-grade coach for next year.

Patu is no stranger to the netball court both as a player and as a coach, both locally, nationally and internationally.

He has played in four Australian National Championships and four New Zealand National Championships.

He’s been an international representative for six years as well.

Patu returns to the RDNL having previously coached the Western Rams in 2023 in their final season in the competition before the club moved to the Western Football League.

In his time at the Rams, he coached their under-19 side to back-to-back undefeated seasons while they had success in other grades over that period.

The club said Patu is inspired by Maya Angelou’s quote, “do the best you can until you know better. When you know better, do better”

“A quote that inspires the way Dee coaches and leads every team he’s part of,” the Burras said.

“What excites us most is Dee’s passion for creating a fun, safe and hardworking environment where players can be themselves, grow their game and push to the next level.

“Season 2026 is going to be huge.”

The Burras won just one match this year, while they drew in two others.

The Burras said there would be more announcements to come.

Leona Hristovska and Deepak Patu. (Supplied)

Zach Guthrie is hoping to make it a second premiership. (Ivan Kemp) 300472_34

Caitlin Hill puts up a shot. (Tara Murray)

The Dragons ready to go again as reigning premiers

ReigningpremiersGisbornearefocusedon getting off to a strong start to the Gisborne and District Cricket Association McIntyre Cup season.

The Dragons started slowly last season before finding their best form at the back end of the season to make it back-to-back premierships.

With the core group returning, captain-coach Jarryd Vernon is confident what they can do this season.

“We should be pretty strong again which is pretty good,” he said. “We’ve picked up a couple and lost a couple as well.

“We’re hoping to be strong again and things have worked out really well.”

Obus Pienaar is the biggest signing for theDragonsandoneofthebiggestsignings in the competition’s history.

Pienaar has played nearly 100 first class matches in South Africa and recently played in the USA’s Major League Cricket competition where he was coached by Australian legend Ricky Ponting. Vernonsaidtheywereexcitedtoseewhat the batter could do.

“It’s nice to have him on board and we’re keen to see how he goes,” he said. “It’s massive for the competition.

“I’ll sit at the non-strikers end and watch him do his thing.”

Closer to home, the Dragons have added a favourite son while picking up two experienced cricketers who have moved to the area.

Jay King returns after a season off and will boost the bowling line up.

Vernon said it was nice to have him back.

“He had a year off and he missed it,” he said. “He’s played in several grand finals and a lot of games for the club.”

Brenton Cook, who played for Melton in the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association last season, and Paul Sammut, who played for Victorian Turf Cricket Association senior club Aberfeldie last season, have both joined the Dragons.

After moving to the town, both reached out to the club about joining them adding more experience to the group.

Josh Brown, one of their two English imports from last season, is returning but

Josh Wills isn’t.

Will Mackay is the other out for the Dragons as he takes a year off cricket.

Vernon said they were still keen to bring through some more juniors into the side.

“We have a good group coming through in the under-17s which is nice,” he said.

“They might get a chance this year.

“We’ve still got Mark Barake, Harry Luxmoore, Spencer Jones who are in the first XI. I’m looking forward to seeing what we can do this year.

“We had a good list last year and they can take the next step this year.”

The Dragons start their season with clashes against Rupertswood and Romsey.

Vernon said there had been a focus on starting strong

“I’veputtheboysunderthepumptostart well,” he said. “The boys have been putting in the work since the start of July and we’re really looking forward to round one.

“We knew we have done the work and we’ll put our best foot forward.”

Sunbury Lions fall short

By Tara Murray

The Sunbury Lions will use grand final heartache to spur the club forward in the Ballarat Football League.

The Lions were playing off against Darley in Saturday’s decider, their first senior grand final since 2016.

Just one player, Nathan Wood, had played in a senior grand final for the Lions. In that time between grand finals, the Devils had won two premierships.

That experience shone through early for the Devils as they led 47-0 at quarter time putting the game almost to bed with three quarters remaining.

The Lions fought hard and won the game after quarter time, but the margin was too much with the Devils winning, 11.13 (79)-6.9 (45).

Lions coach Matt White said the Devils were just too good for them.

The Devils were the only team that they had not been able to beat this season, “We felt we would be able to hold them and not let them kick seven or eight whatever it was,” he said.

“To be able to fight back the way we did but not put the score on the board hurt us.

“They didn’t have the answers, they had the attack first and we didn’t get off to the start we normally do.

“They are a bloody good team and hard to stop a team when they are playing like that.”

Whitesaidhefeltthereweresomenerves early on but it was also the pressure put on them by Darley which forced them into fumbles and mistakes they normally wouldn’t make.

White said while they were really disappointed, they knew they had gone down to a really good side.

“We’ll learn from it,” he said. “And to steal Dan’s [Jordan] we will learn from everything and every game.

“Twelve months ago we played in an elimination final and lost, this year a 70 point win to the exact same team.

“We know if we get Darley in a grand final next year, it won’t be a 70 point win but we’ll have a fair crack at it.

“We’re coming after them now, we have to.”

Briefs

EDFL

East Sunbury has appointed Mark Hourigan as it’s women’s coach for next year’s Essendon District Football League women’s season. Hourigan steps into the role with a wealth of experience — from coaching East Sunbury junior girls through to senior men’s footy. The club said his passion for footy is matched by his dedication to community, demonstrated through his life membership at the East Sunbury Cricket Club.

Bendigo FNL

Several Gisborne players have been recognised for their efforts at the Bendigo Football Netball League awards night. Zoe Davies and Kirby Elliott were both named in the netball team of the year, while James Gray, Pat McKenna and Brad Bernacki were named in the football team of the year. Sandhurst’s Shae Clifford won the Betty Thompson Medal, while Eaglehawk’s Billy Evans on the Michelsen Medal.

Coates Talent League

Whitesaidoverallthingswerestartingto come together for the club.

Their reserves won their grand final with Joel Muir named best on ground.

White said five or six players in their senior side this year had been part of reserves grand finals before.

“We know we have some kids that are going to step up,” he said. “Guys played games this year who know what reserves grade grand finals are like.

“They hopefully get a chance at senior finals next year.”

The culture the Lions are building saw them name an extended grand final bench with the injured Cody Bramble and Josh Guthrie named.

White said both would have given anything to play and naming them on the bench was due to what they had done for the football club.

White said it had been an amazing year for the club with seven of their eight sides making grand finals.

“Reallyfantasticyear,proudefforts.We’ll come back stronger next year.”

Several Calder Cannons were named in the Coates Talent League teams of the year which were announced on Wednesday night. Chloe Baker-West was named on the half back line of the girls team of the year, while Cooper Duff-Tytler and Adam Sweid were named in the boys team. Baker-West finished fifth in the girls best and fairest voting.

GDCA

Rupertswood has further strengthened its squad as it welcome’s back another former player for the upcoming Gisborne and District Cricket Association McIntyre Cup season. Jordan Curran returns to the club where he’s won multiple batting aggregate’s and scored more than 3000 runs. “Jordy is a huge bolster to the top order of any side he plays in,” Rupo said on social media. “Many have fond memories of Jordy’s 108 in a T20, in which cricket balls were put onto the stadium roof. Be careful where you park your cars this season, this man hits a huge ball.”

Sunbury Lions before the grand final. (Tara Murray)

Tara Murray Matthew Barake is one Gisborne is hoping will take the next step. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 466960_08