Star Weekly - Sunbury Macedon Ranges - 28th October 2025 by Star News Group

Witch way to Tyldenvania?

Calling all creatures of the night!

Tyldenvania is back again for one spooky Saturday night.

Tylden cronies Natalie Davis and Beth Johnson are ready to bring a night of fun, music and not-so terrifying frights to the Tylden Hall, for a night you won’t forget.

“We’re always spooky, never scary,” Ms Davis said.

The annual Halloween festival will once again be headlined by Thee Cha Cha Chas, with support from Tylden Cronies Choice Award winners from the recent Macedon Ranges Battle of the Bands, The Electric Eels.

Be sure to dress to impress, with prizes for best costumes, and enjoy the licensed bar, food trucks, candy bar and boogie the night away.

Ms Davis said the night will bring the whole town together, with young and old coming together.

“Halloween is one of those events on the calendar where you can be silly and over the top and that’s exactly what this is for,” she said.

Tyldenvania will be held at the Tylden Hall on Saturday 1 November, from 4pm to 11pm.

Tickets are available online now, at https://tinyurl.com/2s3kn8t8

Incinerator ﬁght

By Georgia Tacey

Sunbury residents are continuing their fightagainsttheproposedWaste-to-Energy (WtE)facilityinSunbury.

Members of the No Waste Incinerator Sunbury group hosted a stall at recent Sunbury show, where they collected 750 signatures on petitions opposing the project.

Theproposedfacilitywillbeoperatedby HiQ at its Sunbury Eco-Hub on Sunbury Road.

As reported by StarWeekly , in August

HiQ was granted a licence by Recycling Victoria to process up to 750,000 tonnes of wasteperannum.

Western Metropolitan MP David Ettershank attended the show to supporttheNoWasteIncineratorSunbury group and said Victoria had issued more licenses for incinerators than another otherstate.

“ThepeopleofSunburyaretiredofbeing dumped on – 1.5 million cubic meters of soil was excavated from the West Gate Tunnel and plonked on Sunbury, now there are plans to send three-quarters of a

million tonnes of Melbourne’s rubbish to beburntinthetown,”hesaid.

“Many of these incinerators will be built in suburban areas like Sunbury, whereas New South Wales has banned incinerators in metropolitan Sydney and only allows theminfouroutlyingregionalareas.”

A No Waste Incinerator Sunbury spokesperson said a WtE facility was the lastthingSunburyneeded.

“We’ve taken the soil, and now we’re being dumped on again, expected to burn the waste of many different councils,” the spokespersonsaid.

“It’sgoingtobedraggedallthewayhere, thentorched.”

Mr Ettershank said Denmark, which has 26 WtE incinerators, is aiming to close a third in the next five years to meet its emissions targets, and questioned why Victoriaisrushingtoopenmore.

“TheEuropeanUnionhasalsoruledthat incinerating waste is not environmentally sustainable,makingitharderforEuropean banks to invest in monster incinerators,” hesaid.

Tylden Cronies Natalie Davis and Beth Johnson are ready for one spooky Saturday night. (Damjan Janevski) 511418_02

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Call for spending equality

By Georgia Tacey

Cr Sam Misho wants Hume council to implement a Local Amenity Fund to address equality issues in budget funding acrossthesuburbs.

Passed at the 13 October council meeting,CrMishoseekstotake10percent of the annual rates revenue by ward, and dedicate it to suburb-specific programs, excluding day-to-day operations and city-wideprograms.

His notice of motion followed after a report was tabled earlier in the meeting, which was intended to reveal the rates per suburbandhowmuchfundingisallocated

toeachsuburb.

Itwasmeanttoillustratethedistributions of rates revenue and other funding across suburbs to provide insights into the equality and rationale behind current and future investment planning across the municipality.

“Importantly, the report confirms that capital works and operating investments are not distributed by suburb or ward, but rather based on council plan priorities, asset condition and renewal needs, populationgrowth,infrastructuredemand and long-term financial sustainability,” Cr Mishosaid.

“This is an evidence-based approach but

it also means some communities may feel they are missing out when they don’t see visibleinvestmentnearby.”

CrMisho’sfollowupnoticeofmotionwill also refer priority packages for Roxburgh Park, Meadow Heights and any other suburbwithlittleinvestmenttobebrought tothe2026-27draftbudget.

CrMishosaidsuburbslikeBroadmeadows and Sunbury, who pay a higher amount of rates due to the expanding population, are receiving significant investment over the next four years, however the same can’t be saidaboutothersuburbs.

“In Meadow Heights, nearly 15,000 residents (will raise) about $25 million

Sunbury Netball recognised at state awards

Sunbury Netball Association has taken home the Woolworths NetSetGo Centre of theYearawardattherecentNetballVictoria Awards.

Theclubwasawardedforitsdemonstrated commitment to delivering a fun, inclusive, and development-focused NetSetGo program.

Withthesupportofpassionatevolunteers, dedicated coaches and a welcoming environment, the association has successfully introduced countless young playerstonetball,layingstrongfoundations forlifelongparticipationinthesport.

Netball Victoria said what sets Sunbury apart is its focus on enjoyment, skill-building, and teamwork, with older representative players actively involved to ensure every child feels supported, valued, and excited to return each week. The program promotes physical activity, communityspirit,andpersonalgrowth.

TheeffortsfromSNAhaveledtooutcomes including increased participation, positive parent feedback, growing volunteer involvement, and visible confidence and developmentamongyoungplayers.

Also from SNA, Melissa Crofts and Mel

Destination Central Victoria launched

Daylesford Macedon Tourism has officially transitioned to Destination Central Victoria.

Destination Central Victoria will now not only cover the Hepburn and Macedon Ranges shires, it will also represent the Mount Alexander and Central Goldfields shires.

This expanded footprint will bring fresh opportunities, new stories, and a stronger voice to the wider region, connecting the wider Central Victoria region through promotion of events, businesses and things to see and do across all four local governmentareas.

Backed and funded by both state and local government, this region-wide organisation is dedicated to leading tourism development, promotion, and

collaboration across the four local governmentareas.

As part of the transition, a fresh consumer-facing brand identity is being developed. While preserving the strong brand equity already associated with Daylesford and the Macedon Ranges, the newidentitywillspotlightthewiderregion’s key brand pillars and hero destinations, reinforcingitsappealtovisitors.

Localtourismandhospitalitybusinesses are encouraged to get in touch with DCV to discuss how the new entity can support andhelptheirbusinessgrow.

A new consumer website and visitor app arealsocurrentlyindevelopment.Thenew brand, website and app will be launched at an industry event in Castlemaine on Tuesday2December.

in rates revenue over four years, yet the planned capital works expenditure over the same period is only $2.8 million,” he said.

Cr Misho said the Local Amenity Fund will be a simple concept to address resident’sconcerns.

“(We’ll retain) 10 per cent of the rates revenue raised in each suburb to fund small, high impact works that residents feeleveryday,”hesaid.

This would cover street parking improvements, bins, public toilets, zebra crossings,footpathsandmore.

Thefundwillbeinvestigatedatcouncil’s upcomingbudgetplanningweekend.

Crottywerebothrecognisedasfinalists,for Volunteer of the Year and Contribution to Coachingrespectively.

Netball Victoria president Carol Cathcart congratulatedallthewinners.

“At Netball Victoria, our mission is to create and inspire that lifelong love of netball, and our vision is clear: for netball to be recognised as the greatest team sport in Victoria,” she said. “Together, we are creating a sport where everyone can belong, and where netball feels like home, inwhateverwayyouareconnected.”

Details:https://tinyurl.com/mr34rncj

“But, Victoria is determined to embrace a dirty technology that Europeisleavingbehind.Thepeople of Sunbury say an incinerator is not welcomeintheirtown.”

HiQ said it has been in contact with members of the No Waste Incinerator Sunbury group, as well as multiple residents of Sunbury to chatabouttheirconcerns.

HiQ also confirmed it plans to submit its environmental and planning applications to the EnvironmentalProtectionAuthority Victoria and the planning minister bytheendof2025.

“From there, we expect public exhibition of these materials, including the release of all independent assessments, will take place in the first half of 2026,” the HiQspokespersonsaid.

The spokesperson said HiQ will respond to the feedback and questions,andupdateitsapplication asrequired.

“Application outcomes from EPA Victoria and the minister for planning are then expected mid to late2026,”thespokespersonsaid.

“Ifthefacilityisapproved,detailed facility design and construction would take place between late 2026 and 2029, with commission and operationsexpectedin2030.”

Locals can sign the petition at a numberoflocationsacrossSunbury, which can be found on the group’s Facebookpage.

Netball Victoria general manager community Abbey Misso with Sunbury Netball Association life member Tracie Quigley. (Supplied).

Fees set for ‘iconic’ Artrise

By Georgia Tacey

The fees and charges for the buildings at Artrise have been released, despite the Sunbury-based councillors having some concerns.

Endorsedatthe13OctoberHumecouncil meeting, the new fees and charges are for the bookable spaces in the precinct, including for the theatre, artist studios and therecordingstudioinSunbury.

The council said in its report that the remaining rooms have equivalent spaces thatalreadyhavefeesadopted,aspartofthe 2025-26budgetprocess.

Thetheatrewillhaveacommercialhourly rate of $130 and a community hourly rate of $100 for room hire. For weekly bookings, for peak season the commercial rate will be $5000 and $3000 rate for the community, and offpeak it will be $3000 and $1500 respectively.

Studio spaces can be booked either per month, per quarter or per year, with prices varyingbylengthandthenumberofrooms.

Cr Carly Moore said the fees are in alignment with council’s community facilityfeesandchargesmodel.”

“Artrise is currently under construction at Jackson’s Hill,“ she said. “Once it is

Greener days for Mt Macedon

Mount Macedon’s future is looking a lot greener, with a reforestation project underway.

Thelarge-scaleforestregenerationproject will contribute to a healthier environment forfuturegenerations,accordingtothestate government.

The project received $1.13 million in funding through the state government’s BushBank program, and aims to restore nativeforeststoformerpineplantationsites inMountMacedon.

About 22,500 native tree saplings were planted in winter across the 94-hectare site onthesouth-eastsideofMountMacedon.

Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas visited Mount Macedon with Outdoor Recreation ParliamentarySecretaryLubaGrigorovitch, andsaidshewelcomedtheproject.

“The Mount Macedon Plantation

Restoration Project is a huge win for our regionanditscommunities,”shesaid.

“The Bushbank program is restoring natural environments across Victoria and right here in Macedon helping to stop the decline of our native plants and animals andimproveournaturalenvironment.”

MsGrigorovithsaidthatonceestablished, the forest will provide more green space for thecommunity.

“The forest will significantly increase habitat for native wildlife, improve soil healthandwaterquality,”shesaid.

Seeds from native local trees were collected from the Macedon Regional Park in July 2023 to ensure the new forest is createdfromspecieswithlocalprogeny.

The seeds were carefully collected, cared for and grown into healthy saplings by a localnurseryreadyforplanting.

complete, there will be 21 bookable spades there, and there will be five anchor users acrossthetwobuildings.

“WeexpectArtrisetobeaniconiccreative destination and we are keen to activate this space and setting the fees and charges is an important part of the admin required to get peopleinandusingthisspacequickly.

“Allfeesandchargesthatareproposedfor the bookable spaces have been identified throughbenchmarking.”

Cr Moore said the Sunbury councillors had some concerns about the cost of the fees.

“I certainly want to acknowledge the

concerns of the Sunbury Ward councillors about ensuring these facilities remain accessible,”shesaid.

“That’s why I’ve added the additional point[inthemotion]thatwillseeusreceive areportinMarch2026.

“This will be able to give us an idea on whetherthesefacilitiesareaccessibletoour community, so we can continue to ensure … that this much loved facility will be loved andusedbythecommunityintothefuture.”

Sunbury-based councillor Kate Hamley was an apology at the council meeting, while mayor Jarrod Bell didn’t speak on the matter.

Outdoor Recreation Parliamentary Secretary Luba Grigorovitch and Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas at Mount Macedon. (Supplied)

$10k ﬁne for Sunbury farmer

By Georgia Tacey

A Sunbury property owner has been fined $10,175 after an Environmental Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) inspection found industrial waste was being burnt at the property.

Paul Attwell and his company Active Farming has been trucking industrial waste as well as soil into his Riddell Road, Sunburyfarm.

EPA officers, responding to community reports, inspected the property in October

and found industrial waste as well as evidenceoftheburnoffs.

The EPA has also issued Active Farming with an Environmental Action Notice that requiresthecompanytoimmediatelycease acceptingindustrialwaste,toimmediately cease burning industrial waste and to removeallindustrialwasteby30January.

This follows a recent Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) decision on the property and its owner, following a Hume council investigation into the ongoingactivityattheproperty.

Turning passion into proﬁt

Hume’s next generation of artists have received support and investment at Future Minds Network’s Young Artists Centre eventonWednesday15October.

Ten artists from Hume were invited to receive help and mentoring to turn their creativity in jewellery, henna and origami intorealbusinesses.

The event was fronted by Future Minds Network chief executive Nathaniel Diong, who worked with the budding artists to improve their marketing and entrepreneurshipskills.

“Over a six-week period, participants doubled their income and used their art to earn a buck for the first time, working to create their own jobs and community connections,”MrDiongsaid.

The event took place at Craigieburn’s Youth Centre, with the budding young artists presenting their arts and crafts at self-developedmarketstallsbeforepitching

their ideas to an audience of potential stakeholders,familiesandfriends.

Ziggy Hao, the 27-year-old founder of FloriaTouch,transformedrealflowerpetals intodelicatehandmadejewellery.

“Duringthesixweeks,Idefinitelylearned a lot. I got to understand my customer base betterandgainedabetter,clearerpictureof myartasabusiness,”theysaid.

Mona El Rahi is a 20-year-old multidisciplinary artist working with henna, line art, painting, design, and murals.“Iestablishedmybusinessthrough mypassionforartanditactuallygotmeinto taking up my Bachelor of Design Arts,” El Rahi said. “It became more of a passion for meafterIfoundoutaboutthementalhealth and well-being benefits. There’s no cons to itforme.”

The event was topped off with an auctioning of the artists’ hand-picked works.

Thecouncilsaidithasbeeninvestigating concernsraisedatthesiteforsometime.

As part of the VCAT decision, all works ceased immediately at the property, with orders from the tribunal stating that permits will be required before new works canbegin.

Hume said that no works can start until plans have been approved by council, and if works commence on the land without approval,thematterwillreturntoVCAT.

The works have resulted in high truck movements into the property for the past

sixmonths.

As reported by StarWeekly , the truck movements along Canterbury Avenue in have been a disruption to residents’ lives, withmorethan300trucksadayreported. Residents had taken their concerns both to council and the EPA to stop the truck movements.

EPA said under the Environment Protection Act 2017 and the Infringements Act2006,thecompanyhastherighttohave the infringement notice reviewed or be consideredbyacourt.

Wurundjeri Way extension

Now open Connecting Docklands and Dynon Road

Ziggy Hao with their preserved ﬂower petal jewellery and Mona El Rahi works with henna, line art, painting, design and murals, inspired by Islamic traditions. (Pictures: Jack O’Shea-Ayres)

Hume youth council elected

Hume has elected its inaugural youth council.

Twelve young people have been elected by their peers, with 3300 youth aged 11 to 17 casting their votes at the 19 polling locations across the municipality in October.

Candidates have spent the past few months campaigning in schools, developing their priorities and advocating for their communities, with 26 hopefuls seekingaspotoncouncil.

ThesuccessfulcandidatesincludePranav Bhandari, Anushka Sharma, Nawar Saadi, ElifAltun,AidenSaji,NethukiPrematilaka, Rushil Raina, Bianca Barbaro, Maha Sajid, Ammar Mahmoud, Ella Campbell and LaurendeVethfromthreewards.

Hume mayor Jarrod Bell welcomed the

newyoungleaders.

“It’s inspiring to witness such a diverse group of young leaders ready to make a difference,”hesaid.

The youth council will be sworn into theirfirstterminDecember,andwillserve a12-monthterminofficein2026.

Theywillhavea$10,000budgettodeliver their priority agenda, working together to define priority areas. They will also work with council to implement projects and events that meet the needs and interests of localyoungpeople.

Issues the successful candidates said they were interested in include mental health support, sustainability, diversity, women’s safety, increasing youth spaces around the municipality and youth safety, especiallyonpublictransport.

Wednesday wild weather

Wednesday 22 October was a busy one for Sunbury SES, with 13 calls for assistance across Sunbury and surrounds. Crews responded to trees down over roads, building damage and other wind-related incidents.

Asset plan adopted

Hume council has adopted its Asset Plan for 2025, after receiving no responses to its community consultation on the plan. Developed in conjunction with the Financial Plan, the plan details the assets that council owns and manages. Both plans provide a long-term view of the resources that will be made available, and how they will be allocated, over the next 10 years. The plan was adopted at the 13 October council meeting.

Hoon crackdown in Hume

Two dozen people were arrested during a major police crackdown on hooning in Hume. Police said 22 people were charged with more than 100 offences. Among those arrested was an 18-year-old from Greenvale who allegedly who performed burnouts dangerously close to a crowd of about 200 people.

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Hume youth council candidates. (Supplied)

Nightmare on Sunbury street

By Georgia Tacey

What lurks inside Patrick Blume’s home is sure to frighten the bravest ghouls and fools.

Mr Blume is getting his medieval dungeon themed display ready, with his home set to be transformed into a frightening fun interactive experience – all created by him.

Trick or treaters are guaranteed to be almost scared to death, with Mr Blume and afriendbringingthefrightsthisHalloween.

He said it’s expected to be another big

night for his annual haunted house.

“We’ll end up getting 1000 people come through and it’s just fun to be able to share andmakethemlaughandscream,”hesaid.

“Especially(Ienjoy)watchingtheparents laugh as the kids scream, that’s probably one of the funniest things, because you’d always think the parents are there to protect the kids.

“But nope, the parents will push the little kids out in front of them and make sure they’re the first to get scared. The more the kids scream, the more the parents laugh.”

In the lead up to the big night, Mr

Scarily fun end to Halloween

In the dead of night, after trick and treaters haveknockedonthelastdoors,Goonawarra Neighbourhood House will be brewing up trouble.

Get ready for a frighteningly fun night as the neighbourhood house opens its doors for a spooktacular soiree to end the night.

Gonnawarra Neighbourhood House manager Isabella Rosinsky said it’s the perfect way to end your night after trick or treating through the neighbourhood.

“A team of local volunteers have joined together to organise and deliver the events for our local community,” she said.

“The aim of these events is to encourage community connections and foster social cohesion in our rapidly expanding suburb.”

This event will also be the first in their ‘Know Thy Neighbour’ series of events, which has been funded by Hume council and Melbourne Airport.

“Our Halloween party promises to be a fun night with food, games and some spooky entertainment,” Ms Rosinsky said.

Entryonthenightisfree,andtherewillbe plenty of spooky fun to be had on the night.

Food will be provided, with vegan and gluten free options available.

Come down to the Gonnawarra Neighbourhood House at 8 Gullane Drive, Sunbury, from6pmonFriday31October,to mark the end of Halloween.

While entry is free, registrations are required for catering.

Goonawarra Neighbourhood House volunteer Kylie Rees, manager Isabella Rosinsky and volunteer Mercedes Ramirez are ready for some Friday night frights. (Damjan Janevski) 511488_01

Blume will be hard at work assembling his dungeon that will create a fun experience in and outside of his house.

Every year he likes to switch it up with a new theme, finding it a nice break from his desk job.

“It’s a new challenge for me. At the end of the day, I mainly do it for me, so I want to have a challenge,” he said.

“I want to do something new and to solve a new problem, like ‘how do you build the next prop that does something cool’?”

Find the frightening fun at 3 Donnelly Close, Sunbury, from 3.30pm until late.

Patrick Blume is bringing the frights to Sunbury this Halloween. (Damjan Janevski) 511520_01

Enter the ghost sign realm

Published last year, ‘Melbourne Ghost Signs’ – created by cultural archaeologist and former Seddon resident Sean Reynolds – presents images of old and often hand-painted signs across Melbourne and the stories behind them. His ghost signs fascination started in the west, where Oscar Parry met him to talk about some of the signs and their significance.

A‘ghost sign’ might sound like something haunted or related to the undead, but in the eyes of cultural archaeologist and former Seddon resident Sean Reynolds, these relics are full of life, humanity, and tales of community.

Ghost signs are old and often hand-painted signs that have been preservedorleftonbuildings,andalthough some are more faded and degraded than others, Reynolds makes sure to keep their stories clear and preserved.

There’s an artistry to them … they’re hand-painted signs, they have … almost a humanity to them

- Sean Reynolds

He created a book called ‘Melbourne Ghost Signs’ that was published by Scribe Publications last year and includes a collection of photographs and accompanying stories behind these spectral signs.

In the book, these have been split into chapters across Melbourne’s CBD and the west, south, east, and north.

It was in the west that Reynolds took his first step into the realm of ghost signs, where he now hosts regular ghost sign photography walking tours with the Footscray Traders Association.

First becoming fascinated with the signs after noticing them on repetitive daily lockdownwalksin2020,hesaidtheybegan to catch his eye.

“I’d walked past a lot of these signs dozens and dozens of times and never thought about them, but then I started noticing them … they’re kind of beautiful in and of themselves,” Reynolds said.

“There’s an artistry to them, and there’s kind of almost like this human touch to them – they’re hand-painted … so many signs now are big vinyl or big plastic signs, but these hand-painted signs, they have … almost a humanity to them,” he said.

“[I] wasn’t happy just photographing the signs, I wanted to know the story behind them, and it just kind of spiralled out from there.”

Creating an Instagram account initially just for his own records, his account now has more than 30,000 followers and has attracted interest for several reasons.

“People will comment, and they’ll tell their stories … they’ll have a family connection…youknow,‘mydadworkedat that factory,’ … ‘hey, that was my milk bar when I was growing up.’ And then, some of it is just kind of collective nostalgia or stories,” Reynolds said.

“The Skipping Girl sign – that’s such an icon of Melbourne, and people … almost without fail, someone’s got a story about it. Andalotofitisfromtheirchildhood–they remember seeing the Skipping Girl sign … they were coming in from country Victoria to visit their grandma or something like that,” he said.

Through sharing ghost signs online, Reynolds has met other enthusiasts, with people from across the globe documenting the signs in their own communities.

AthisFootscrayghostsignwalkingtours, Reynolds said that people of all ages come along for various reasons.

“You look at these old signs and stories and you’d think it skews older because the signs are older, the buildings are older – but I’ve found a lot of young people are interested in their community,” Reynolds said.

“A lot of young people have grown up, and spent their adult lives – and their childhoods now – everything’s digital, so everything’s online … I think there’s a bit of this kind of push collectively for people to really start to understand their community … so I’ve had a lot of young people show up to these tours, or I’ve had people [show up] who’ve never been to Footscray,” he said.

Reynolds said personal stories are often

shared at his tours, such as a man whose parents moved to Footscray in the 1940s and who remembered an Italian-only cinema in the suburb.

“Footscray’s always been a suburb of immigrants, so you had the Irish and then Italians and Greeks moved here and then … Vietnamese people and Chinese people and now we’ve got a lot of people from Ethiopia and Africa and the Middle East … with that has always been industry,” Reynolds said.

He said along the Maribyrnong River, there were plenty of textile plants, wool mills, and slaughterhouses.

“What you start to find is Footscray, in particular, was such a huge part of industrial Melbourne … it’s kind of the rise of that and then by the 1970s, that kind of globalisation takes over and we start to see these places closing down … I try to be fairly agnostic about it – I try not to put too much political spin on it – but there’s no questionthatweusedtoreallymakethings here,andnowwedon’tasmuch,”Reynolds said.

To those interested in hunting for ghost signs themselves, he recommended searching through alleyways and at the backs of buildings, as frontage signs are often painted over or covered up.

“I think it’s important though to document these things to remember the stories behind them, because the stories behind them are very human – they’re human stories,” Reynolds said.

“Just kind of being aware of what was here before, that everything has a story – I think that’s it.”

Details: instagram.com/melbourne_ ghostsigns

A ghost sign on the Yarra Coffee Palace building in Yarraville. (Sean Reynolds)

Cultural archaeologist and former Seddon resident Sean Reynolds in front of a ghost sign for one of the oldest Vietnamese bakeries in Footscray. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 483010_01

Call for reserve upgrades

By Georgia Tacey

Football Victoria has released its Facilities Strategy for 2025-2035, calling for improvements to facilities across the MacedonRanges.

FV’s strategy plans to ensure football’s infrastructurekeepspacewiththegame’s ongoing growth, and plans to focus on delivering high-priority grassroots projectsinthreekeyareas.

These include lighting, with 55 priority projects to life 75 per cent of competition pitches to 100-plus lux level by 2035; pitches,with70priorityprojectstoachieve 75percentofpitchesratedgood/excellent in 10 years; and amenities, which aims for 80 priority projects to ensure 85 per

cent of player change rooms are gender accessibleby2035.

FV is calling for all gender facilities in BarklySquareReserveinKyneton,lighting upgrades at Dixon Field in Gisborne, and a pitch and lighting upgrade at Romsey RecreationReserve.

MacedonRangescouncilinfrastructure and assets director Dom Testoni confirmed only one out of the three projects is making progress to meet FV’s strategy.

“The existing facilities at Barkly Square Reserve … include accessible toilets, changerooms and kiosk and are consideredfitforpurpose,”hesaid.

“As part of council’s proposed multipurpose facility at Barkly Square,

the changerooms are being designed as gender-neutraltoensureaccessibilityand inclusivityforallplayersandvisitors.”

Mr Testoni said funding for this has not yetbeenconfirmed.

Mr Testoni confirmed Dixon Field is currently undergoing a lighting upgrade, following a $200,000 grant from the state government.

The funding will go towards the installation of new 150 lux LED lighting to one soccer pitch, and is expected to enhancesafetyandextendplayinghours.

“Designs for the project are being finalised, with the tender expected to be advertised in November 2025 and works anticipated for completion in early 2026,” MrTestonisaid.

Tails wagging for 40 years

Kyneton Dog Obedience Club recently celebrated40yearsoftraininginOctober.

More than 100 past and present dog owners, volunteers, trainers and committee members came together to celebratethemilestoneforafundayout.

The Kyneton Dog Obedience Club has operated on a purely volunteer-run basis since 1985, encouraging responsible dog ownership, and providing socialisation and obedience training for dogs and their ownersthroughouttheKynetonarea.

The classes – beginners and four skill levels, are held on Sunday mornings at Barkly Square in Kyneton. A dedicated committee and volunteer instructors have kepttheclubrunningforfortyyears.

The club shared some photos of the celebrationwiththe StarWeekly

Mr Testoni said council is currently undertaking a design project for a pitch andlightingupgradeonpitch2atRomsey RecreationReserve.

“Any proposed future upgrades will focus on supporting ongoing use for the soccer activities and improving the facilitiesforallusers,”hesaid.

He said funding isn’t confirmed, but a design and cost planning process is currentlyunderway.

“Council continues to work closely with Football Victoria, local clubs and other sporting bodies to ensure community facilities are inclusive, sustainable and meet the growing demand for participation across all age groups and genders,”hesaid.

Kyneton Obedience Dog Club. (Pictures: Brendan McCarthy)

There were big crowds ready to celebrate the milestone.

Celebrating the Braemar College Class of 2025

Imagine beginning your high school journey in 2020. You’ve just met new friends, joined your first sports team, and are looking forward to your first camp. Then, halfway around the world, disruption begins, and soon enough, it reachesyourdoorstep.

For the college’s graduating Class of 2025, the traditional high school experience began under extraordinary circumstances. While some students had already joined Braemar in earlier

years,itwasin2020thatthiscohortcame together to start what should have been a familiar five-year journey of learning, friendship, and growth. Instead, their early high school years were marked by isolation, uncertainty, and the challenge of adapting to a world turned upside down.

Those years, however, also forged something remarkable. They taught this groupresilience,empathy,andtheability to adapt to change. They learned to stay

connectedinnewways,tofindmotivation within themselves, and to support one another, lessons that no textbook could everfullyteach.

Now,astheyapproachthefinalweeksof their Year 12 journey, these young people stand as a testament to strength and optimism. They have grown from quiet determination into confident leaders, ready to step into the broader world beyond Braemar College. Their collective story is one not just of overcoming

challenge, but of shaping character and communitythroughadversity.

The college community is immensely proud of the Class of 2025, proud of their achievements, their spirit, and the way they have carried themselves through such defining years. They remind us that educationisnotonlyaboutwhathappens in classrooms, but about how we face the worldandrisetogether.

Wewishthemeverysuccessastheytake theirnextstepsbeyondBraemar.

Braemar College’s graduating Class of 2025.

Blitz leads to 230 arrests

A police blitz targeting recidivist family violence perpetrators in the north-west resultedin230arrests.

The offenders were tracked down and apprehended by police across multiple daysthroughoutSeptemberandOctoberin VictoriaPolice’snorth-westmetroregion.

Detectives from the Westgate Family Violence Investigation Unit and Broadmeadows Family Violence Investigation Unit teamed up to lead the blitz, with the Family Violence Command Taskforce and the Public Order Response Team.

Thosearrestedhaveallegedlycommitted multiple violent crimes against current and former partners and their children, policesaid.

The blitz focussed on repeat family

violence perpetrators who are known to offend on multiple occasions across a 12-month period and specialist support services were also engaged, helping to disruptpatternsofviolence.

Those arrested included a 42-year-old man who was wanted by police after failing to appear in court for serious family violence offending; a 35-year-old man who allegedly committed a family violence-related aggravated burglary; a 42-year-old woman who allegedly assaulted another woman at a shopping centre; an 18-year-old man who allegedly committed multiple counts of deception and damaged his parents property; and a 37-year-oldmanwhoallegedlypersistently contravenedafamilyviolenceintervention order.

Police also served 187 family violence intervention orders and executed more than120outstandingwarrantsthroughout theblitz.

Westgate Family Violence Investigation Unit Detective Acting Senior Sergeant Fiona Waters said police were serious about ensuring recidivist family violence perpetrators are held responsible for their actions.

“Family violence is completely unacceptable – which is why we will continue to work tirelessly to target and apprehend offenders and keep victims safe,”shesaid,

Broadmeadows Family Violence InvestigationUnitDetectiveSergeantChris Couacaud said, “Whether it’s committing violent assaults against their loved ones,

breaching a family violence intervention order or using technology to stalk or harass – those that choose to engage in this behaviour should think again. They will be tracked down by police and held to account”.

If you are concerned about your own or someone else’s behaviour support services areavailable.

No to Violence runs a Men’s Referral Service which helps men who use violence to change their behaviour and can be contactedon1300766491.

Support is available 24 hours a day through Safe Steps by calling 1800 015 188 oremailingsafesteps@safesteps.org.au

Inanemergencycalltriple-0.Ifyoucan’t gettoaphone,asksomeoneelsetodoitfor you.

Whittlesea Show is a proud community tradition

Entriesarefloodingin,andthegroundsare aflurryofactivityaspreparationscontinue for the annual Whittlesea Show on 1 and 2 November.

Over two days, the Whittlesea Showgrounds will come to life with an abundanceofentertainmentforyoungand old.

Wander through the many pavilions including art, photography, education, cattle, sheep, hobby livestock, and the ever-popular animal nursery. Or enjoy horse riding events and working dog trials. For green thumbs and home bakers, cooking, craft, produce and floral displays offer a colourful insight into local passions and skills. Blacksmithing, shearing and hay baling come to life alongside agriculturalmachineryintheheritageand pioneerpavilions.

Vibrantlocaltalentfillsthestagesacross the grounds with an endless variety of entertainment. Local favourite, Screamin’ Eagles, will take the stage each afternoon, beltingouttheirbest.

Demonstrations, workshops, stage coach, camel and helicopter rides, free performances from Eroni’s circus, woodchop, a relaxing beer garden and much more rounds out the weekend of festivities.

Whittlesea Agricultural Society president Jayson Munro said, “We try to sustain our traditional and ever popular pavilions and events, while bringing a mix of new and fresh experiences. Whittlesea Show is a testament to our wonderful volunteers, who work tirelessly. The result is a weekend for all, that highlights the Whittlesea and surrounding communities to both those who live here and those who visit for the show. We hope everyone will comealongandenjoytheshow”.

an agricultural fair – it’s a celebration of resilience,connectionandtradition.

With something for every age and interest, the Whittlesea Show is more than

Simplyregistertodayand

You can even coax your little ones around the grounds with the Pavilion Hunter Showbag. Purchase a bag and add thetreasurescollectedatvariouspavilions tothebag.

Mark your calendars, gather family and friends and join show organisers in celebrating what makes country Victoria truly special. Whether you’re a local or a first-timevisitor,the2025WhittleseaShow isnottobemissed.

Visit www.whittleseshow.org.au or follow on Facebook and Instagram.

Buy your own castle

By Sam Porter

Abelovediconofthewestisupforsale.

TheOvernewtonCastleinKeilorisonthe marketwithanaskingpricerangebetween $6millionto$6,600,000.

The Scottish Baronial-style estate was purchasedbytheNortonfamilyin1975.

Overnewton Castle manager director Emma Stott said seeing her family’s propertyonthemarketisbothexcitingand sad.

“It is a sad time for our family. We’ve always loved living there and it’s such a beautifulplace,”MsStottsaid.

“Butexcitingtoseewhatnewadventures might take place and whoever may take it on.”

Ms Stott’s parents bought the castle a monthbeforeshewasborn.

“Asachilditwasalwaysfunplayinghide and seek in the 35 rooms and getting up to mischief and not getting caught because your parents couldn’t find you,” Ms Stott said.

“My dad, he was very, very proud to be the king of the castle … he worked so hard to get that place and to maintain it and to keepit.Hewassopassionateaboutit.

“My dad will forever be the king of the castleinmyeyes.”

Thecastlecelebratedits175thanniversary lastyearafteritsestablishmentbyScottish settler, grazier and former mayor of Keilor, WilliamJamesTaylor.

This year, Overnewton Castle has been recognised as a finalist in the 2025 Victorian Tourism Awards for Cultural Tourism.

The home features seven bedrooms,

a grand ballroom seating 150 people, a private chapel, a lavish dining room, three bathrooms and several outbuildings, and is surrounded by English gardens with centuries-oldtrees.

The estate currently operates as a wedding, conference and hospitality venue.

Ms Stott said her family was selling the

5.58-acre property to downsize and so her father,DrNorton,canfocusonhishealth.

“We’re so lucky to have done what we’ve done.Ifitwasn’tforthecommunitycoming and enjoying and sharing in what we had to share. I don’t think we would’ve been around as long as we have. So it’s a huge thankyoutoeveryoneforthekindnessand supportovertheyears,”MsStottsaid.

Hume to honour Ford’s legacy

Hume council has moved to commemoratetheeverlastingimpact oftheFordmotorcompany,exploring a new public art project to honour the legacy of the Broadmeadows assembly plant and its deep ties to Melbourne’snorth.

At the Monday 13 October council meeting, Cr John Haddad called for recognition of Ford’s century-long presence and its cultural and economicsignificancetoHume.

Ford’s assembly plant first opened in Broadmeadows in 1959 and operated through to 2016, serving as one of Hume’s largest employers for newarrivalstoAustralia.

Council moved to commemorate the motor company with light boxes, which would include up to six illuminateddisplaysinstalledaround theFordgateshoppingprecinct.

The installations would feature archival images of classic Ford vehiclesandtheBroadmeadowsplant, celebrating local manufacturing history while brightening the area at night.

Cr Naim Kurt ssaid “This is a win for tourism, it’s a win for shopping precincts, it’s a win for heritage and it’s a win for celebrating some iconographyofouroldcitycouncil.

The initiative is loosely inspired by the installation of cricket busts produced as part of the Ashes heroes collectioninSunbury.

BOOK NOW FOR CHRISTMAS

Take the stress out of Christmas and dine out this year

Dining out on Christmas Day is becoming increasinglypopular,andthereareseveral reasons why more people are choosing to celebrate the holiday in restaurants rather than at home. This shift is driven by a combination of practical considerations, lifestyle changes and evolving attitudes toward holiday traditions. Below are the key factors contributing to the growing trendofdiningoutonChristmasDay:

Convenience and Stress Reduction

One of the primary reasons families are opting to dine out on Christmas Day is the convenience it offers. Preparing a traditionalChristmasmealathomecanbe time-consuming and stressful, involving days of planning, cooking, and cleaning up afterward. For many, the pressure of hostingandcateringtotheneedsofalarge group can take away from the enjoyment of the holiday. Dining out allows families to focus on spending quality time together rather than worrying about the logistics of preparingabigmeal.

Restaurants take care of everything, from cooking to serving and cleaning up, allowing families to relax and enjoy a festive, stress-free dining experience.

This convenience appeals to those who want to avoid the holiday rush in the kitchen, particularly in multi-generational households where multiple people may have different ideas about how Christmas shouldbecelebrated.

Changing Family Dynamics

The structure of families is changing, and thisisinfluencingholidaytraditions.Many modern families are spread out across cities, states, or even countries, making it difficult for everyone to gather in one home for a traditional Christmas meal. Dining out can be a practical solution for families who live in different locations, as

it provides a central, neutral venue where everyone can come together without the pressureofhosting.

In addition, as families become smaller and more diverse in terms of cultural backgrounds and dietary preferences, the traditional Christmas meal doesn’t hold the same importance for everyone. Some families may not observe Christmas in a religious sense, but still appreciate the holiday as a time for togetherness. Dining out offers a way to celebrate without being tied to the customs or expectations of cookingabig,traditionalmealathome.

Diverse Dining Options

Another reason for the rise in dining out on Christmas Day is the increasing variety of restaurants open on the holiday. Restaurants now offer diverse menus to cater to different tastes and preferences, makingiteasierforpeopletofindanoption that suits their needs. From fine dining establishments serving multi-course Christmasfeaststocasualeateriesoffering non-traditional meals, the variety ensures thatthere’ssomethingforeveryone.

For those who enjoy trying new foods or don’t feel attached to the idea of a

traditional turkey dinner, dining out presentsanopportunitytoexploredifferent cuisines and flavors. Some restaurants even offer special Christmas-themed menus, complete with festive decorations and entertainment, creating a fun and celebratoryatmospherewithoutthehassle ofcookingathome.

Social Experience

For many, dining out on Christmas Day is also a way to engage in a more social and communal celebration. Restaurants offer the chance to be surrounded by other people who are also celebrating, adding to the festive atmosphere. This is particularly appealingtoindividualswhomaynothave large families or who prefer to celebrate in amorepublic,livelysetting.

Dining out can also be a way to break up the day’s activities, allowing people to enjoy the rest of the holiday without spending all their time in the kitchen. It provides an opportunity to dress up, enjoy a special meal, and create new traditions that revolve around shared experiences ratherthanlabor-intensivehomecooking.

Overnewton Castle manager director and Norton family member Emma Stott. (Damjan Janevski) 512081_01

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

WANT YOUR EVENT LISTED? Community Calendar is made available free of charge to not-for-proﬁt organisations to keep the public informed of special events and activities. Send item details to Star Weekly Community Calendar, Corner Thomsons Road and Keilor Park Drive, Keilor Park, 3042, or email to westeditorial@starweekly.com.au by 9am Wednesday the week prior to publication

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 28 October. Phone 9740 6978 OR email win@sunburyhouse. com.au to register interest in attending.

 www.sunburyhouse.com.au

CAS Annual General Meeting

The Committee of Management of Citizen Advocacy Sunbury & Districts Inc. invites anyone interested to its 39th Annual General Meeting, to be held on Thursday 6 November at 6.30pm. Venue will be the Citizen Advocacy Sunbury Ofﬁce, Suite 5a, 36 Macedon Street, Sunbury. RSVP your attendance by Saturday 1 November.

 9744 7378, 0408 178 614 or casunbury1@bigpond.com

Ceremony at the Light Horse

The annual commemoration for those from the Kyneton District whose families served in the early militia units, and during the Boer and Great wars, will be held at 10.30am on Friday 31 October 2025 at the Light Horse Statue in Jennings Street, Kyneton. The image is that of a light-horseman at the Charge at Beersheba in Palestine that took place on 31 October 1917, and the reason this annual event takes place on this date. Floral tributes are welcome, following which tea and coffee will be available at the nearby RSL Club.

CWA Sunbury

CWA Sunbury meets second and fourth Mondays at St Mary’s Church in O’Shanassy Street, Sunbury. All women are welcome, bring your grandchildren if you are caring for them, there is a playground available.

 Bev Goodman, 0402 988 954

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

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

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 from 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

This week’s photographer’s choice photo is of Brookﬁeld resident Jacqueline Licitra’s elaborate Halloween decorations in her front yard. Pictured is Jacqueline with her grandsons Maddix, 3, and Zanon, 1. (Damjan Janevski) 511243_01

popular, classical, folk and music theatre styles. Rehearsals run on Thursdays, from 4.15pm, with afternoon tea and play time.

 yvmacedon.org.au

Messy Play in Sunbury

Join in the Messy Play fun with this toddler-focussed program, including messy and sensory child-led play. The program will run from 10–11.30am on Tuesdays, Wednesday and Thursdays.

 www.sunburyhouse.com.au or 9740 6978

Yoga in Sunbury

Yoga classes at Sunbury Neighbourhood House focus on supporting participants to slow down and move well. Special attention is given to mindful awareness of movement that builds strength in a healthy and safe way, Monday mornings, Thursday evenings and Friday mornings.

 www.sunburyhouse.com.au or 9740 6978

Toastmasters

Sunbury and Macedon Ranges Toastmasters helps its members develop their public speaking, communication and leadership skills. The group meets on the ﬁrst and third Tuesday of each month, from 7.20–9.30pm, at the Sunbury Community Centre, 531 Elizabeth Drive, Sunbury.  vpm-4185@toastmastersclubs.org

Sunbury Seniors

Sunbury Seniors (55 or older) meet on Mondays and Fridays from 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

Craft and conversation

Head down to the Sunbury Library on Mondays at noon for the craft and conversation group. The program is free and open to people aged 15 years and older.

 https://bit.ly/39BIu2O

Sunbury Ladies Badminton Club

Come along and be part of Sunbury Ladies Badminton Club and enjoy the beneﬁts of physical activity. Social games are on Mondays, 9.30am- noon, and team competitions are on Thursdays, 9.30am-12.30pm, at Eric Boardman Stadium, Wilsons Lane.

 sunburylbc@gmail.com

Art group

The Woodend Art Group holds classes and workshops in the studios in the Woodend railway station complex. It also has a social Tuesday where members and interested people can come along in the morning, have a coffee and paint together in a social environment.

 Colin Robinson, 0407 426 252

Shuttles and pickleballs

Macedon Ranges Badminton Club is inviting residents to come and play badminton, or pickleball, or both at Macedon Community Centre. Badminton is played on Tuesdays from 7.30pm and Thursdays at 9.30am. Pickleball is played on Mondays at 6.30pm, Wednesdays at 10.15am and on Tuesday from 10am at the Romsey Recreation Centre.

 David, 0419 589 425, or macedonrangesbadminton@gmail.com

Scottish country dancing

The Macedon Ranges Scottish Country Dancing Group meets every Thursday,1-3pm, at Buffalo Stadium, Woodend. The dancing involves social country dancing, and no special clothes needed, just soft ﬂat shoes.

 Meg, 0409 166 783, or Linda, 0408 476 317

Friends of Woodlands Historic Park

Help preserve Woodlands Historic Park and learn about its history by joining the Friends of Woodlands Historic Park. The group consists of volunteers, working one day each month in the park, on projects including plant propagation and revegetation, weed removal, litter control and other activities. Some members may also work in the park on projects at other times. Becoming a member of the group is easy and free, and is open to like-minded people who want to take positive action to maintain our environment. You must be 18 or older and enjoy outdoor activities. The Friends group meets on the ﬁrst Saturday of each month at the Parks Victoria depot off Somerton Rd, Greenvale.

 Bevan, 0468 469 514 or bevan@keepemail.com

Sunbury Art Society

The Sunbury Art Society meets every Friday and Saturday, from 10am-3pm, at the Boilerhouse, Jacksons Hill, to paint or draw over a cuppa with other like minded people. New members welcome.

 Ken, 0407 062 568, or Yvonne, 0429 994 828

Ribbons weave memories

Artist Yoonjung Kim records emotions and sensations through painting, drawn from personal memories and experiences, in a new exhibition opening in Brimbank this month.

‘Interwoven’ is Kim’s first solo exhibition since relocating from Seoul to Melbourne in 2020.

“Theworksexplorememoryandemotion through painterly gestures, inspired by decorative objects, plants, and animals discovered across Melbourne’s western suburbs,” Kim said.

A ribbon motif also features throughout works, which Kim said she uses to unfold

her inner narratives.

“The ribbon is a really familiar object to me. It seems to bring out all sorts of emotions. I wanted to use them as a structure to hold or wrap my emotions or memories,” Kim said.

For Kim the ribbon also evokes joy and celebration, love and friendship, while carrying the weight of social expectations and tension.

Kim said other objects in the paintings act as symbols for her emotions.

“Sometimes it’s nostalgia, very warm feelings in my childhood, and sometimes anxiety too,” she said.

Kim said she hopes audiences reflect on their own lives through her works.

“I want them to find their own memories through my paintings because my work is a bit symbolic, people can feel all different feelings and memories,” she said.

‘Interwoven’, supported by Brimbank council, is open from 24 October until 10 January at the Bowery Gallery, 33 Princess Street, St Albans.

The exhibition is free of charge and is available to view Monday to Friday from 9am-5pm and on Saturdays from 9am-12.30pm.

Details: creativebrimbank.com.au

Join Lucy Durack for a festive performance

Who said it was too early to start getting intothefestivespiritandspreadChristmas cheer?

Actress,singerandtelevisionpersonality

Lucy Durack will be bringing her voice and swagger to the Encore Events Centre in Hoppers Crossing on Tuesday 9 December.

Running from 2.30-4pm, the joy of the festive season will be on full display with a show of much-loved Christmas classics for the whole family to sing along to.

A music theatre and carols sensation, Durack will ring in the holiday season with all-time favourites like ‘Silent Night’, ‘All I

Want for Christmas’, and ‘O Holy Night.’?

If Durack’s name is unfamiliar you are bound to have seen– or heard– her sometime in the last two decades.

Some of her most notable roles have been playing Glinda in the Australian production of Wicked, and Elle Woods in the Australian production of Legally Blonde.

MorningMelodiesisafeel-goodmorning music series held on the second Tuesday of each month.

It’s a chance for friends to come together and experience great music, sing and

dance along to many iconic hits from an Aussie icon.

Whileitisapopularstapleamongretired members of the Wyndham community and from elsewhere in the west, everyone is invited to come and bring those closest to them.

It may only be October, but it is never too early to start making preparations for the silly season.

Tickets are $14 and include a morning tea. Details: https://www.wyndham.vic. gov.au/whats-on/morning-melodies-lucydurack-christmas-show-0

Mount Players end the year with a magical show

The Mount Players are gearing up for their last show of the year, and it promises to be one of the best yet.

‘Puffs’ also known as Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic, is a fast-paced, heartwarming play that reimagines the story of a famous boy wizard – from the perspective of the overlooked and underdog students in the ‘Puffs’ house.

Across seven chaotic years, the story follows Wayne and his misfit friends as

they navigate spells, dangers and growing up, proving that being third place isn’t so bad after all.

Theshow,idealforallages10andup,will be a magical and charming celebration of friendship, bravery, and finding where you belong.

Perfect for wizards and non-wizards alike, Puffs promises to be a fun show for thewholefamily,andonenottobemissed.

Puffs will open on Friday, 7 November, with the first show at 8pm that night, for

Halloween creeps into Moorabool

Jack-o’-lanterns will light up Moorabool this week as residents prepare to celebrate Halloween –with several events held across the municipality marking the spooky occasion.

Younger residents aged 11–17 are invited to the council’s ‘Youth Spookaball’ event at the Darley Civic Hub Pavilion on Thursday 30 October for an evening packed with games, activities,music,anddancing.

Attendees are encouraged to come dressed in their best Halloween costumes for the chance to win a prize.

The event will run from 6–8pm and registration is essential, with details availableonMoorabool’swebsite.

Another opportunity to dress up in your scariest attire is the Halloween Fun Fest, which will be hosted at Rotary Park in Bacchus Marsh from 4–10pmon31October.

Itwillincludeananimalfarm,large format games, market stalls, food trucks,dancingfun,andcompetitions withprizes.

There will also be a screening of the 2019 animated supernatural comedy ‘The Addams Family,’ following the quirkyandmuch-lovedfamilycreated bycartoonistCharlesAddams.

Entryis$5atthegate,andtheevent ishostedbyMooraFun.

MooraFun event coordinator Dotty Hazel said this will be the third year of running the event, with previous festivalsattractingpositivefeedback.

She said that attendees could leave the event to do some trick-or-treating andthenreturn,aswristbandswillbe supplieduponentry.

Pets are welcome if kept on a short leash.

Further details and contact information for this event can also be foundontheMooraboolwebsite.

three weekends only.

Shows will be on Friday, Saturday and Sunday for night/matinee performances, upuntilSunday23November,withthelast show at 2pm.

The Mount Players also offer a complimentary sherry on arrival for adults and tea/coffee and biscuits during the interval. The bar will be open to purchase drinks before and after the show, and during interval.

Tickets: https://tinyurl.com/yybrjs93

Lucy Durack. (Supplied)

Artist Yoonjung Kim. (Supplied)

The cast of Puffs, showing this November at the Mountview Theatre. (Supplied)

PERMIT

The application is for a permit

reference

NOTICE OF

Tel: (03) 5422 0333 Fax: (03) 5422 3623

APPLICATION FOR A PLANNING PERMIT

An application for a

•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-Permits-Approvals-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.

Any person who may be affected by the granting of the

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)

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.

1. Held by the Victorian Turf Club, the first Melbourne Cup was run in which year? 2. The highest Melbourne Cup Day attendance of

3. And which horse won in that year?

4. This year the annual Melbourne Cup Trophy Tour commenced with a visit to which city?

The winning strapper is presented with what trophy?

What is the type and colour of the traditional buttonhole flower worn on Cup Day?

Bart Cummings holds the record for winning the Melbourne Cup how many times?

The silk colours of which famous Cupwinner featured the stars of the Southern Cross?

Sheila Laxon, joint trainer of 2024 winner Knight’s Choice also prepared which other Melbourne Cup winner?

10. Which owner was represented by six runners in the 2013 Cup?

11. Which Melbourne Cupwinning horse originally raced in New Zealand under the name Flash Guy?

12. The 2024 Cup winner Knight’s Choice was bred near which NSW country town?

13. In 1965 famous British supermodel Jean Shrimpton sparked controversy by wearing what at Flemington?

14. Which Melbourne Cup winner was trained in Germany?

15. Which famous Cup winner carried 66kg to victory?

16. Runners in the 2025 Melbourne Cup will compete for how much prize money?

17. What percentage of the prize money does the winning jockey receive?

18. A popular cocktail served at Flemington on Cup day is called what?

19. Which country did 2006 Cup winner Delta Blues represent?

20. Which champion Australian jockey of the modern era fell off at his first ride in the Melbourne Cup?

21. How many female jockeys have ridden in the Cup?

22. What has been the most successful barrier in Melbourne Cup history?

23. And who is the only horse to have won the Melbourne Cup from barrier 18?

24. Who was the last grey horse to win the Melbourne Cup?

25. The race is now run on the first Tuesday in November, but originally it was run on which day of the week?

26. Which horse was the first and only to win the ‘Spring Grand Slam’, winning the Caufield Cup, Cox Plate, and Melbourne Cup in the same year?

27. And which country did that horse come from?

28. Queen Elizabeth II’s only attempt at capturing Australia’s crown for stayers was with which horse?

29. Who was the last favourite to win the Cup?

30. Winning connections of the first Melbourne Cup received what?

Star Weekly seeks an enthusiastic Full or Part time Sales Executive to work across our print, digital, social and online platforms.

Star Weekly is an independently owned company which prides itself on its long history of community experience but also its investment in the future.

The successful applicant will need to possess good people skills to enable them to meet with local businesses to sell solutions through our advertising platforms to help promote their business.

Applicants will need their own reliable vehicle for which we will provide an allowance.

The position is salaried, plus we offer an open ended commission scheme.

Send your application letter and resume to: Advertising Sales Manager, Mandy Clark mandy.clark@starnewsgroup.com.au www.starnewsgroup.com.au

PUZZLES

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

1 Without a fixed address (8) 5 Climb (6)

Churlish (5) 11 Emission of energy (9)

Ultra (7)

Harsh (8)

Plaster artwork (6) 18 Rib (6) 20 Yearbooks (8) 21 Cannabis derivative (7) 24 Desired (6) 27 One of seven children (9) 28 Appropriate (5)

Killer (6)

Adieu (8)

Citrus preserve (9)

Lazy (4)

Combination into a whole (9)

Across the region

Variety of hot drink (5,3)

Free time (7)

22 Dividing walls (5)

23 Aid (4)

25 Passageway between seats (5)

26 Small duck (4)

368

1. Linen is made from the cellulose fibres of which plant?

2 How many points is the letter Y worth in a game of scrabble?

3 A common dessert component, frangipane is made primarily from what ingredient?

4 CanneryRow is a 1945 novel by which American author?

5 The nicknames ‘Satchmo’, ‘Satch’ and ‘Pops’ belonged to which influential Jazz singer and trumpeter? 6 Morel, lion’s mane, oyster and enoki are all types of what?

7 What spirit is used to make Irish coffee?

8 On February 3, 1959, which three American musicians were killed in a plane crash near Clear Lake, Iowa?

9 In what year did Ireland join the European Union?

10 What was Amy Winehouse's (pictured) last studio recording before her death in 2011?

Rear view in Forester focus

By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring

ThenewForester:Ah,thattakesmeback.

While Subaru’s most popular model has taken up with the hybrid age, changes are mostly cosmetic, including cabin layouts that have not changed much over the past four years, no impediment to the many Foresterfans,ofwhichtherearemany.

Needless to say, there is an impressive list of standard equipment in the Forester, right down to the bargain basement. Things such as Subaru Intelligent Drive (IntelligentandSportmodes),X-Modewith hill descent, front cornering lamps and steering responsive headlights, dual zone air-con, six-speaker audio and EyeSight DriverAssistareonhanddependingonthe model.

Prices start at $43,490 for the entry-level Forester and includes seven variants, four petrol only and three hybrids, featuring Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive sendingconstanttractiontoallfourwheels.

ATouringvariant,thetestvehicle,comes in at $50,990, while the range is topped off by the Forester Hybrid Touring at $55,990. Additions include gloss black radiator grille, leather and suede upholstery and 10-speakersoundsystem.

Making a debut in the new Forester is Subaru’s next generation Hybrid e-Boxer system mating a 2.5-litre horizontally opposed ICE with 90kW electric motor and 1.1kWhbattery,givingthevehicleaclaimed rangeofmorethan1000kmonafulltank.

Forester petrol and hybrid models are covered by Subaru’s five-year unlimited kilometre warranty and 12 months roadsideassist.

Styling

Subaru says the new SUV shows off a ‘bold evolution’ in Forester design that’s wider, more athletic and purpose-built for Australian conditions, with C-shaped LED headlamps, incorporating LED daytime running lights and cornering lamps for bettervisibilityatintersections.

While aerodynamics was a major consideration in shaping the vehicle –sleeker door mirrors mounted lower, for example – there’s still more than a nod to theoriginalruggedSUVshape.

All models have 18- or 19-inch alloy wheels, depending on the grade. The Touring rolls on the latter and is singled out for gloss black front grille, front and rear bumper accents, plus side mirrors and low-profileroofrails.

Every Forester sports an aluminium bonnet – reducing weight but adding strength with a view to enhancing pedestrian protection – while maintaining asolidSUVidentity.

Interior

Seatinghascomeinforparticularattention, with Subaru engineers working with anatomy experts to develop better support for the lower back and hips, helping keep the spine aligned and reduce tiredness on longjourneys.

Seat rails are mounted directly on to the chassis to minimise sway and absorb vibration giving a smoother ride, while safety is enhanced by a new side bolster design that helps reduce whiplash in a collision.

The Touring takes up leather and suede upholstery in black or brown with brown interiorstitchingandheatedandventilated frontseats.

Infotainment

Inside, the Forester has been revamped to lift comfort, connectivity and cabin

refinement. At the centre of the dash is an 11.6-inch full-HD infotainment touchscreen, designed for ease of use for wireless Apple CarPlay and wired and wirelessAndroidAuto.

An on-screen digital multi-function display and a second information screen are positioned to reduce driver distraction. Belowisawirelessphonechargepad.

Front and rear USB ports include high-output USB-A and USB-C connectionsforfastercharging.Frontports offer convenient access for both device connectivity and power delivery, with rear ports enabling passenger charging, keeping tablets and smartphones powered upandreadythroughoutlongerjourneys.

The 10-speaker Harman/Kardon sound system with subwoofer supplies audio of a standard far beyond that expected in a mid-rangemarketvehicle.

Engines/transmissions

Petrol-only Foresters are powered by Subaru’s tried-and-true 2.5-litre Boxer engine developed for improved reliability andresponsewithlessnoise,vibrationand harshness.

Petrol-powered models feature Subaru’s latest-generation Lineartronic CVT, re-tuned for sharper performance and improved efficiency. A broader gear ratio range (now 8.1, up from 7.0) allows for stronger take-off acceleration and more relaxed highway cruising. Lower first and reverse gears aid hill climbing – even in reverse – while a new eight-speed manual modeenhancesdriverengagement.

ThisCVTispairedwithSubaru’supdated Active Torque Split AWD system, which

dynamically adjusts torque distribution –optimised to the vehicle’s weight balance – to deliver better steering response and more confident handling across varying surfaces.

Safety

One thing that has changed dramatically over the years since the first Forester made landfall Down Under is protection of passengers and pedestrians. For a start, new-generation vehicles, across the board, are fitted with nine airbags, including far-sideandfrontpassengercushion.

Latest generation EyeSight Driver Assist technologyisstandardacrosstherange.

Featured are a new wide-angle monocular camera displaying a wider field of view, and the new emergency driving stop system, Subaru vision assist, and drivermonitoring.

Active systems include adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking (front and rear), active torque vectoring, autonomous emergency steering and blind spotmonitoring.

The above is backed by emergency lane-keep assist, front side radar, lane centring,lanechangeandlane-keepassist.

Slow manoeuvres, including parking, is helped by rear cross-traffic alert, rear parking sensors, while traffic sign recognition and tyre pressure monitoring playtheirpartinsafedriving.

Driving

The 2.5-litre petrol engine produces 136kW of power at 5800rpm and 247Nm of torque at 3700rpm, its broad, flat torque curve ensuring smooth acceleration and strong

performanceacrossawiderangeofdriving conditions, particularly when overtaking orcarryingafullload.

A broader gear ratio range (now 8.1, up from 7.0) allows for stronger take-off acceleration and more relaxed highway cruising. Lower first and reverse gears aid hillclimbing–eveninreverse–whileanew eight-speed manual mode enhances driver engagement.

ThisCVTispairedwithSubaru’supdated Active Torque Split AWD system, which dynamically adjusts torque distribution –optimised to the vehicle’s weight balance – to deliver better steering response and more confident handling across varying surfaces.

Subaru rates Forester Touring fuel consumption at 7.9 litres per 100km on the combined urban/highway cycle with 180g/km carbon dioxide emissions. The test Touring recorded a tad over 10 litres per 100km around city and suburbs and less than six litres per 100 kilometres at motorwayspeeds.

Enhancedcabininsulationandvibration dampinghavereducedinteriornoise,while 360-degree Surround View Monitor has increased visibility and hence a pleasing on-andoff-roaddrivingexperience.

And with Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, enhanced Australiansuspensiontuning,plus220mm ground clearance, the Forester Touring is purpose built for local on- and off-road conditions.

Summary

No worries, the New Age Subaru Forester stillhasitsSUVchops.

Forester Touring is purpose built for local on- and off-road conditions. (Pictures: Supplied)

It took until week four of the summer season for the rain to impact matches across Melbourne’s north-west. However, StarWeeklyphotographer Ljubica Vrankovic still managed to capture some of the action among the wet on Saturday.

Heavens open up on play

Taylors Lakes’ Arjun Upadhyay. 512547_10

Altona Roosters’ Thanuj Thisakuttige and Aiden Elkington. 512549_05

Melton’s Joel Mitchener. 512547_03

Sunshine United. 512549_01

One let slip for Bacchus Marsh. 512545_07

Shanin Silva bowls for Bacchus Marsh. 512545_25

Some of the crowd at the ﬁrst turf game at Bacchus Marsh Racecourse. 512545_15

Some of the crowd at the ﬁrst turf game at Bacchus Marsh Racecourse. 512545_17

Some of the crowd at the ﬁrst turf game at Bacchus Marsh Racecourse. 512545_20

Taylors Lakes batters. 512547_07

Lanceﬁeld Gift is set to get even bigger

The Lancefield Gift event is set to be even bigger with the inaugural Lancefield Cup running event set to attract even more high class runners to Lancefield.

The gift returned last season for the first time since the 1960s, having first been held in the late 1800s.

Last year’s comeback meeting was hailed as one of the most successful events on the 2025 professional running calendar, drawing athletes from around Australia.

The $6000 Community Bank Lancefield Gift, which Lancefield Gift organiser Chris Dynon said has distinction of being Australia’s richest 400-metre race, as well as the feature sprint events that were the top guide for athletes preparing for the prestigious Stawell Gift at Easter with half the field in the men’s final coming out of the Lancefield final.

This year, organisers are building on that success with the introduction of the Lancefield Cup, a new 800 metre feature

event that revives another chapter of local athletics history.

Since the late 1920s, one of the highlights of the Lancefield program was the half-mile race known as the Matthew Maher Handicap.

In honour of that event and its place in thetown’srunningheritage,theLancefield committeehasdecidedtoreinvigoratethe race under a new name, The Lancefield Cup, which will be sponsored by Nutrien Harcourts Kilmore.

“The 800 metres races are probably the most gut-wrenching races of them all,” Dynon said.

“It’s the only race where nobody celebrates as they cross the line, they just collapse in exhaustion. It’s pure pain all the way.”

Last years 800 metres event was won by Aric Reimers, a rising star of Australian athletics who has his sights firmly set on competing at the Los Angeles Olympics.

His victory in a time of 1:55.6 was one of

several standout performances.

“Lastyearwasallaboutbringingthegift back proving that Lancefield could once again host a major professional running event,” Dynon said.

“This year, it’s about growth. We’re honouring our history by reviving the old half-mile race, but also creating something fresh that we hope becomes a permanent fixture on the calendar.”

This year’s Lancefield gift and cup meeting promises another day of spectacularracing,witheventsbeginning at noon and the big finals taking place between 5pm and 7pm on November 15 at Lancefield Park.

The day will also include spring events for men’s and women’s, with $5000 prize money on the line for both races.

Dynon said athletes from across the country are expected to compete for top honours, prize money and bragging rights in one of Australia’s most picturesque country settings.

Sunbury digs deep

By Tara Murray

Club Sunbury had to dig deep to get over PortMelbourneintheopeningroundofthe Bowls Victoria weekend pennant, division 1,section1competition.

Sunbury started the season on the road withafewplayers,includingoneofitsusual skips,MarkCowan,unavailable.

Aftertrailingformuchoftheday,Sunbury turned it around to come away with an 86 (14)-68(4)win.

Lauchlin Davies’ rink had a 30-15 win, whileLeeWesleyskippedtheotherwinning rinktoa24-12shotwin.

Sunbury’s David Glennon said it was a goodresulttostarttheseason.

“Itwasnicetowin,especiallyontheroad,” he said. “They are always pretty strong so it wasnicetogetawin,twoup,twodown.

“There were a few changes to the squad withacoupleofpeopleunavailable.”

GlennonsaidSunburywasdownbyabout 15 to 20 shots at one stage before it came overthetoptogetthewin.

The rink of Des Cann Jnr trailed by 15 shotsbeforeonlylosingbytwoshots,22-20.

The other losing rink was Mark Armstrong’s,whichwentdown19-12.

Glennon said Davies was the standout in the result in what was otherwise a pretty eventeamperformance.

Sunbury has added two key players as it aims to breakthrough after a number of nearmissesindivision1.

Armstrong, who is from Sunbury, but lives in Queensland will travel down most weekstoplayfortheclub.

Last season he filled in for a couple of matches.

Cann Jnr is also flying down from Queensland to play as Sunbury’s second marqueeplayertostrengthenthesquad.

“Markisafantasticpresencefortheclub,” hesaid.“Desaswellthepairofthemwillbe reallygood.”

The inclusion of the pair has seen some reshuffling with Marc Bullows not skipping in round one, which was the first time in a numberofyears.

Premiership Cat not oﬀered a new contract

Premiership Cat and dual Carji Greeves Medallist Cam Guthrie has not been offered a contract for next season, ending a 240-game career after being selected at pick 23 in the 2010AFLdraft.

Drafted from the Sunbury Lions and the Calder Cannons, Guthrie becameakeyplayerfortheCats.

Guthrie’s standout season came in 2020 where he was awarded his first Carji Greeves Medal as Geelong’s best and fairest and earned selection intheAll-Australianteam.

In 2022, Guthrie was awarded Geelong life membership and played a key role in Geelong’s premiership victory on his way to securing his secondCarjiGreevesMedal.

While the final three seasons of his career were impacted by injury, Guthrie continued to work hard to getbackandremaineddedicatedand diligent with his rehabilitation and trainingprogram.

Geelong Cats football executive general manager Andrew Mackie paid tribute to Guthrie’s contribution totheclub.

“Cam has been an outstanding and dedicated servant of the Geelong Football Club, both on and off the field,”hesaid.

It was a mixed day for Sunbury with its second side, which has been promoted this season, losing narrowly while both its division5sideshadwashouts.

Sunbury’s top side will this week face Whittlesea, which has played in the top coupleofgradesthepastfewyears.

It’s a big week for Club Sunbury, with its Melbourne eXtreme competing in the BowlsPremierLeaguecompetition.

In the Ballarat Highlands Bowls Region Highlands division 1 competition, at least three matches were able to be completed despitethewetweather.

Woodend had a 68 (14)-58 (2) win against Trentham, while Kyneton beat Lancefield, 69(14)-45(2).

Kyneton Golf had a big win against Broadford,winning70(16)-42(0).

Romsey and Gisborne’s match was washed out with the sides sharing the points, while no score for Diggers Rest and Kilmorewasavailableatdeadline.

ThetwoKynetonteamssittopofthetable, undefeatedafterfourrounds.

“He has been ultra-consistent and had the special ability to elevate his game in key moments and times of success, particularly throughout our 2022premiershipcampaign.

“CamwillalwaysbeagreatGeelong person, with his influence extending well beyond what he achieved on the field.”

Ricky Bell. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 445373_12

Nutrien Harcourts Kilmore’s Jeanette Laffan holds a replica of the Lanceﬁeld Cup trophy to be held for the ﬁrst time on November 15. (Supplied)

Cam Guthrie with the cup. (Ivan Kemp)

Thunder juniors set to return to join women’s team

East Sunbury is gaining momentum ahead of the Essendon District Football League women’s season with several players returning to the club.

Under new coach Mark Hourigan, the Thunder has looked to bring back former players who went elsewhere when the Thunder didn’t have a senior women’s side. Hourigan’s had success with multiple players returning along with some fresh faces, all with experience in playing in big games.

Steph Jones is returning to the club where she played her junior football before playing at Gisborne and Macedon, establishing herself as a ruck.

She is a two-time premiership player with Macedon.

“Steph’s experience at higher levels of football and her natural leadership qualities will make a huge impact on our group,” Hourigan said.

“She’s a strong presence both on and off the field and sets the standard for those around her.”

Sisters Mariam and Charrouf Habib both return to the club as well.

Both played at Woodend-Hesket before moving to Riddell last year, playing in key role in the Bombers making the Riddell District Football League grand final.

Mariam previously won the RDFL best and fairest medal when she was at Woodend-Hesket.

“Mariam’s determination to win games and collect hard-ball possessions around the contest will be a great asset to the team,” Hourigan said.

“Charrouf has come a long way with her football — from a dominant backline playertonowanon-ballerwhorunsallday.

“I’m truly excited to see Charrouf light the field up with her fitness and ability to support the team on our journey.”

All three were part of the Thunder’s under-15 girls team which made a grand final in 2018 which Hourigan coached.

Roar sneak home to win

By Tara Murray

It was the McGann show as Sunbury pulled a rabbit out of the hat to beat Williamstown CYMS in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association Steve McNamara Shield on Saturday.

The Roar was on the back foot after day one with a poor start with the bat meaning everything had to go right on day two to get the win.

The CYs resumed at 4-89 in reply to 161. The two McGanns’, Jason and Jack, were able to combine to take the final six wickets and nine wickets between them, to bowl the CYs out for 159 in a nerve-wracking end.

“It was awesome,” said Roar coach Leo Italiano. “I’m so happy for the boys.

“We started pre-season back in July which was insanely early. It’s only one win, it was how we won it.”

Italiano said vice-captain Jack Narraway gave them a chance on day one as he made

55 not out having struggled with the bat since arriving in Australia.

On Saturday, it was the veteran and his son that got the job done.

“It was unbelievable by Jack McGann,” Italiano said. “He’s 20 and he never believed that he was a first XI cricketer.

“He took 4-21 off 18 overs and that was what we knew that he could do.

“Hopefully the switch has flicked now.

“He and his old man took nine wickets, with the old boy taking five wickets and showing he still has gas in the tank.

“He’s still passionate about the game and loves the club.”

Jasonfinishedwith5-46,whileNarraway took six catches behind the stumps.

Italiano admits they were all hoping that Jack would be the one to claim the five wickets, which would have been his first five wicket haul in the first XI.

Forthecoach,itwasnervouswatchingas the CYs approached the total with only one wicket in hand.

Cara Clarke is another former Thunder junior coming to the club.

Clarke has also spent time at Riddell.

“Cara’s knowledge of the game is second to none, which will create headaches for opposition teams when trying to work out how she always ends up in the right area on the field at the right time,’ Hourigan said.

Molly Connell is the other signing announced for the Thunder.

Connell captained Riddell’s inaugural women’s side this year, playing a key role in the ruck.

She’s also been part of the Calder Cannons.

“Molly’s going to be an exciting player to watch this coming season. Her experience in finals and playing at a higher level of women’s football will definitely bring exciting times ahead for the team.”

Tara Murray

GDCA

Weather ruined the fourth round of the Gisborne and District Cricket Association season. Matches got underway in each of the top three grades, but rain meant there were no results in the McIntyre Cup and Johnstone Shield competitions. In the Jensen Shield seconds, Malmsbury beat Gisborne, while Blackwood snuck home against Trentham.

RDFL

Lancefield is searching for a new coach for its Riddell District Football League team. The Tigers last week advertised for a new coach to replace Ryan O’Meara, who coached the side this season. “Our senior team is a young, developing group ready to take the next step, and we’re looking for a leader who can inspire, teach and drive success both on and off the field,” the Tigers said on social media. Details: lancefieldfnc@gmail.com or call president Joe Schembri, 0407 526 501.

EDFL

Gisborne has locked in some of their young guns for next year’s Essendon District Football League women’s season. Division 2 leading goalkicker Alexia Todorovic has signed on for another season. She also finished runners-up in the club’s best and fairest. The Bulldogs have also announced the re-signings of Amanda Crooks, Olivia Paterson and Stephanie Brancatisano. Alice Hedgelong will move up into the senior program, as does Amy O’Kelly, who was one of the Bulldogs best in the division 2 premiership.

“The twos were playing their first game and I chose to help the twos get set up,” he said.

“I was watching on Frogbox and was scoring. When we took that last wicket I let out a Roar and everyone looked at me.

“They then realised that we had won.”

Italiano said the result would give the playinggroupplentyofconfidenceheading into the rest of the season.

Hesaidtheyshouldhavewoninprevious round, if not for a batting collapse proving costly as it went from 0-58 to all out for 118.

On Saturday, Sunbury’s second XI was washed out against the CYs at Clarke Oval. Sunbury was 4-160 when the rain fell and the players never got back on.

Kamran Khan made 49 for the Roar.

The Roar now faces Newport-Digman this Saturday in a one-dayer.

The Bulls are coming off a tie against Tullamarine, having had a loss in round one.

Softball

The Goonawarriors had a good weekend in the Sunbury Softball Association competition. In the women’s competition, the Goonawarriors beat the Macedon Vixens, 18-5, while the Reservoir Rats lost to the Calder Dragons, 16-3 in the grand final rematch. In the men’s competition, the Goonawarriors beat the Calder Dragons, 19-1, while the Rat Pack beat the Outlaws, 16-3. Notable plays on the day included, Michelle Baxter catching a foul ball over the fence, while Mohomad Farhad hit a massive home run.

Mariam Habib. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 493539_08

Jack Narraway had a good match with the bat and gloves. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 510975_14

Dragons continuing to build towards ﬁnals success

Gisborneiskeentobuildonwhatithasdone

the past couple of seasons in the Gisborne and District Cricket Association women’s league.

After coming back into the competition a couple of seasons ago, the Dragons made finals last season before being knocked out.

With some more depth and more experience, coach Brianna Woodburn said they were building something really good.

“It’s been a good start to the season,” she said.“Thevibesaregoodintheteam.Allthe key members struck around with only one or two from last season not playing.

“We picked up quite a few returning players and some new players.”

Woodburn said with the numbers they’ve gotthisseason,theyonlyfeelshortofhaving two sides for the first time.

She said several players who had left to play at higher levels the past couple of years had returned to the club which was a real positive and would strengthen what they could do.

Woodburn said they decided to stay with one team to ensure they had the numbers each week.

“It means we have to make some tough

Ava Hynes. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 457630_05

calls at selection,” she said.

“It’s not just about the best XI being selected, but there’s a development mindset and getting their go.”.

The Dragons started the season with two wins, including beating Macedon

for the first time they’ve been back in the competition.

Having been knocked out of the finals by the Cats last season, Woodburn said it was a big thing for them to get a win over Macedon.

Rockies on the up

By Tara Murray

Macedon Ranges Rockies women’s side continues to show improvement in the Country Basketball League north-west competition.

After breaking through for their first win last season, the Rockies finished with two for the season.

With many of the group returning this season, coach Stacey Stewart said they were continuing to see the development.

“It’s been really good and there’s been positive improvement,” she said. “The team morale is high and the vibe is good.

“We want to continue on and hopefully get at least another win to equal the effort of last year.

“Hopefully we can get a couple more on top of that.”

Stewart said they didn’t set the aim of a certain number of wins for the year, but it was just about showing improvement each season.

She said that would be the main focus.

“There’s things we want to work on, but at the same time it is hard with people coming from different clubs,” she said.

“We have an eight week season and have to put it all together on the floor and see how it looks.

“Sometimes it’s challenging but it’s always rewarding.”

Stewart said after last season the group spoke about coming back and wanting to give it their best and taking that next step. She said a big focus on giving local talent a go, meant they were younger than many other sides.

“Being local is a positive, it’s inspiring Ranges players to step into senior basketball.”

Stewart said Molly Garrahan was having another excellent season.

She said co-captains Kiralee Collings and Cara Beattie were putting their stance on things and leading from the front.

The Rockies had a big weekend with a double header against the Melton Thoroughbreds and Bacchus Marsh Lions.

Stewart also had Sunbury Jets youth league trials on Sunday, meaning she was unsure where she would be due to her commitments.

It was a tough weekend results wise for the Rockies, as they lost both games.

OnSaturdaynight,theRockieslosttothe Melton Thoroughbreds, 67-60.

A 16-9 first quarter was the difference

between the two teams.

Garrahan top scored with 13 points.

Bacchus Marsh Lions proved way too strong with an 88-48 win on Sunday.

The Lions dominated in all four quarters to claim the big win.

Collings top scored with 12 points, while Kaitlyn Bickerton and Olivia Woods scored 10 points each.

In the men’s competition, the Rockies got the win against the Thoroughbreds on

Woodburn said they were keen to take that next step this season.

The coach will play a big part of that, having claimed the competition’s best and fairest award last season.

Woodburn said for her, she plays her best cricket when she’s having fun and she has a really good community around her.

Her focus was making progress with her coaching this season.

“Myfocusisimprovingonbeingacoach,” she said.”Dealing with a larger group.”

Aspannerwasthrownintheworksleading intoroundthreewiththecompetitionbeing split in two.

Woodburn said for the new teams it was needed so they could find their feet.

For the Dragons, it means some of their pre-planning in terms of selection they had done will have to be rejigged.

With the changes, the Dragons faced LancefieldBlackonSundayTheTigersmade 0-24 before the match was abandoned.

Woodburn said before the game she wasn’t sure what the Tigers line up would look like with the split of the competition.

Tara Murray

Bombers sign Hrovat, Kovacevic

Riddell has revealed its first two signings under new coach Matt Darby for next year’s Riddell District Football League season.

While a number of Bombers premiership players are headed elsewhere next season, the Bombers are looking to bring in some fresh faces.

The first two signings bring plenty of experience at higher levels.

Former AFL player Nathan Hrovat joins the club and will add to the midfield group.

“Nathan has AFL experience playing 69 games with North Melbourne and the Western Bulldogs,” the Bombers said on social media.

“Coming off a best and fairest last season with Shepparton, Nath is still dominatingthroughthemidfieldand will be a force to be reckoned with for the Bombers.

“On top of his impressive on field resume he is an even better bloke off the field.”

He will be joined at the Bombers by another Shepparton player in Mark Kovacevic, who will bring size to the Bombers outfit.

Kovacevicplayedhisjuniorfootball atGreenvaleandwasontheAFLdraft radar a number of years ago.

“Mark is a towering ruckman who can also push forward and kick a goal,” the Bombers said.

“Winning the BNF in 2024 for Shepparton, experience at VFL [Victorian Football League] level, as well as a grand final BOG [best on ground] in the Northern League top division big Mark is ready to stamp his authority on the Riddell league.

“A big force on the field and a great bloke off, Mark will have no worries fitting in at Bomberland.”

Saturday night, 116-85. A 42-22 second quarter set the match up for the Rockies.

Lucas Impey top scored with 30 points for the Rockies.

The Rockies had it two from two for the weekend as it beat the Lions, 82-73. Saxon Royal top scored with 22 points for the Rockies.

The Rockies are now up to second on the ladder with four wins and two losses.

The inclusions come at a good time for the Bombers as they look to rebuild their list.

Leading goalkicker Dean Galea, Dylan Tarczon, Tommy Aklemade, Kamen Ogilvie and Ben Borg are among the players who have signed elsewhere.

TheBombershavesinceannounced all their leadership group from this year would return.

Mollie Garrahan. (Jacob Pattison) 363952_09